Tag: Chamber of Commerce

Hops in the Hills craft beer fest gets a boost from MC student brewers

Posted on June 21, 2022 by - Uncategorized

They’re currently stored in the cool confines of Dr. Nathan Duncan’s basement, but on Saturday, June 25, eight brews created by Maryville College students will be available for sampling by roughly 1,000 attendees of a craft beer festival.

The annual event, known as Hops in the Hills and held in downtown Maryville, is part of the City of Maryville’s annual Summer on Broadway extravaganza and will include over two dozen professional breweries — along with sample pours from Duncan’s “EXP200: Introduction to Brewing” course that the professor of chemistry launched in 2018.

“For this, we have about eight different beers we’re bringing, and almost all of them are student recipes,” said Duncan, who took the beer home with him during recent summer renovations to the College’s Sutton Science Center. “Two are my recipes, including the Irish red ale we brewed earlier this year for the Choir of Man show at the Clayton Center, and I brewed my brown ale this year for it as well. Those are the only two that aren’t student recipes.

“The rest are all from this class except for one, and it’s from an alumnus who took the class in 2020. In addition to students from this year’s class that are working as volunteers for Hops in the Hills, I have students that go back to the very first time we offered it in 2018 who are coming this year as well. A lot of Maryville College alumni will make up the volunteers for this event, and I’m really excited from the standpoint that a lot of them took the class before it was even a part of Hops in the Hills.

“To see how much this little class has grown as far as really becoming a part of our regional craft brew scene is exciting,” he added.

Duncan offers the course every spring and has room for roughly 20 to 24 students. It’s an upper-level class for students 21 and older that focuses on the brewing process, and because beer can be fermented under pressure and turned around in as little as two weeks depending on the style, there’s ample opportunity to try various creations and concoctions.

And some of them, he added, succeed beyond anyone’s expectations, including his own.

“The beer I’m most excited about is one that was created by Becca Roberson ’22 that’s supposed to be a beer that has all of the components or nuances of an Old Fashioned cocktail,” he said. “It’s a porter-style beer that’s aged with some oak, some bourbon, some cherry and also with some orange peel. It’s one she made early in the semester, and it tasted really good. Now that it’s been aging for a while, it should be even better. As soon as we tried it, I told everyone, ‘We’re saving this for Hops in the Hills.’”

In addition to Roberson’s creation — for which she’s designed its own logo — and Duncan’s ales, some of the other brewing class offerings for Hops in the Hills include an imperial stout and for those who find the overly hoppy flavor of stouts and ales off-putting, there’s the brew by alum Sawyer Cradit ’20: a “margarita beer,” according to Duncan.

“It’s kind of a sour wheat style, very low on the hops,” Duncan said. “With this, he was making a beer that used sour mash barley, a lot of wheat to give it kind of the haziness and a little bit of sweetness, and the hops that he used were a New Zealand variety that adds kind of a lime flavor to it.”

Hops in the Hills, Duncan added, is the latest in a busy schedule of events for which his students have brewed beer. (Because their brews are not sold, and the class operates as a homebrewing club, they’re not required to obtain a license to serve it.) In addition to the Blount County Alumni Association’s annual spring barbecue and the aforementioned Choir of Man performance, MC beer was recently served at the banquet celebrating the end of KT Days, and Duncan addressed the assembled alumni about the course, and its plans for the future.

“We have some things in the works that we hope will formalize this class, meaning that it will eventually be replaced with a four-hour class,” he said. “What we’re doing now would be considered the lab part of the class, while it will also include a lot more deep-dive lectures, and we’ve talked with several folks in the brewing industry in our region who are interested in partnering with us for on-site and external internships.”

Kim Mitchell named Women in Tennessee Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year

Posted on September 20, 2021 by - Uncategorized

Kim Mitchell named Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year

The Blount Partnership announced today that Director of Tourism Kim Mitchell was named “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year” by HospitalityTN. The award was given during the Stars of the Industry Gala at the Governor’s Conference on September 16, 2021, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Mitchell has served as the director of tourism for the Blount Partnership and the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority since 2014.

Kim Mitchell named Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year

The “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year” award distinguishes a female professional leader in the hospitality industry. The recipient is a role model with noteworthy accomplishments, leadership roles, and volunteer positions.

HospitalityTN is a not-for-profit trade association that represents the hospitality and tourism industry in Tennessee. It highlights lodging and dining establishments in the state, as well as other businesses involved in the industry. The organization plays a role in benefitting the businesses by protecting their interests and managing issues brought on by the political, legislative, regulatory, and economic forces that impact the industry.

For the past 32 years, HospitalityTN has recognized outstanding employees and organizations through their Stars of the Industry Awards Program.

Mitchell received a degree in hotel and restaurant management with a minor in marketing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

She began her career in the hospitality industry at the Knoxville Airport Hilton and later served at The Garden Inn in Oak Ridge followed by the McNabb Center.

Through her work with the Blount Partnership and SMTDA, Mitchell has contributed to increasing travel and tourism through marketing strategy and execution. She excels in garnering local, regional, and national media attention.

During the pandemic, Mitchell took initiative to ensure safety measures were met when promoting outdoor activities. The #CloserToHome campaign was launched to promote hyperlocal tourism and encourage day trips and shorter vacation stays in “your own backyard.”

Mitchell is a leader in many organizations. She serves on the board of directors at Townsend-Cades Cove Business Alliance, Maryville Downtown Association, and Knoxville-Smoky Mountains Greenway Trails. In addition, she holds leadership positions with Tennessee Main Streets – Downtown Maryville, Middle Tennessee Tourism Council, and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.

“We’re proud of Kim’s hard work, leadership, and her expertise in hospitality, marketing, and event management,” said Blount Partnership President Bryan Daniels. “She possesses a passion and enthusiasm for Tennessee and Blount County. We congratulate her on her many accolades and dedication to raising the bar and ensuring Blount County is a top destination for travel. We are proud to have our very own Kim Mitchell named “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year”.”

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Park sets visitation record with 14.1 million visits in 2021

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Little River Run 5K set for November 13 at Townsend Abbey

Posted on September 27, 2021 by - Uncategorized

Townsend Abbey, home of the Little River Run 5K.

Keep Blount Beautiful (KBB) and Little River Watershed Association (LRWA) are partnering for the 3rd Annual Little River Run 5K, set for 11 am on Saturday, November 13th at the Townsend Abbey in Townsend, TN. The Little River Run 5K represents a joint effort through which both organizations encourage participants to enjoy the beauty of Blount County, engage with their community, and help spread the message of environmental stewardship. Further, all proceeds from the run will support the many free events, programs, and educational initiatives offered by KBB and LRWA that advocate for an environmentally healthy Blount County.

Registration for the Little River Run 5K is now open for both in-person and virtual runners. For more information and to sign up, search “Little River Run 5K” at RunSignUp.com. Early-bird registration ends October 1st.

The Little River Run 5K is a chip-timed event. Participants of all ages and skill levels are welcome. After the run, participants can stay at the Townsend Abbey for food, drinks, and raffle prizes.

Volunteers are needed to help with set-up/tear-down, registration/sign-in, parking, and course direction. If you would like to volunteer, email [email protected] or fill out the form at http://www.keepblountbeautiful.org/little-river-run-5k.

KBB and LRWA are still accepting sponsorships for the Little River Run 5K. If your business is interested in sponsoring, email [email protected] or fill out the form at http://www.keepblountbeautiful.org/little-river-run-5k. Businesses will be offered various levels of sponsorship that include business advertisements and other race-related benefits.

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Little River Trading Company Celebrates 25 Years in East Tennessee

Posted on August 18, 2021 by - Uncategorized

Little River Trading Company Celebrates 25 Years in East TN

Little River Trading Company is excited to celebrate 25 years of providing quality outdoor gear and services to East Tennessee. Since its founding in 1996, Little River Trading Company has been known for its quality outdoor gear and clothing. Now, the store is planning a multi-day celebration event, scheduled for the fall, to thank customers for their years of support.

Located among the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Maryville, the store’s local ties are important to maintain. For Little River Trading Company owner Charles Woody, “Community is the biggest thing.” Operating the store has become a family affair in more ways than one. “I raised my boys in the business,” Woody says. The store has gone on to serve multiple generations of customers, he notes, adding, “It’s amazing to have the friends and families that still come in and shop with us, people that have shopped for 25 years.”

Now, Little River Trading Company is working to thank the community that supported them. A 25th Anniversary Celebration, scheduled for the fall, is in the works now with details to come soon. This event will feature unique activities and vendors, and a specialty beer from Blackberry Farms Brewery. For a limited time, the shop will also be reprinting shirts, hats, and other goods with their vintage Little River Trading Company 1996 logo, which will be available for purchase at the event.

“Our motto has always been ‘quality outdoor gear and clothing since 1996,’” says Woody, “and it always has been quality—everything.” Little River Trading Co. offers footwear, hiking gear, climbing supplies, clothing, camping equipment, and more. To learn more details about the 25th Anniversary or shop available products online, visit their website at littlerivertradingco.com or find them on Instagram @littlerivertrad and Facebook @littlerivertrading.

Little River Trading Company hammock life

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Maryville College announces new Downtown Center hub for hospitality

Posted on May 4, 2023 by - Uncategorized

Beginning in 2024, Maryville College will return to the downtown area that shares its name for the first time in more than 150 years.

Established as the Southern and Western Theological Seminary in 1819, the College was a part of downtown Maryville until the completion of Anderson Hall, the oldest building on its present campus, in 1870. In early 2024, however, the Maryville College Downtown Center will open at 205 Court St., serving as both a learning lab and an embassy, of sorts, to the community in which the institution has long been invested.

“To many of you, this news is probably not a surprise, given our goal of being ‘of and for the region,’” MC President Dr. Bryan Coker wrote to faculty, staff and students recently. “As I have often stated, the fates of the College and downtown are inextricably linked; thus, I believe it’s important for us to have a substantive stake in the revitalization of downtown Maryville. I wholeheartedly believe that a stronger downtown means a stronger Maryville College, and vice versa.

“MC alumni often reminisce about downtown Homecoming parades as well as frequenting downtown businesses. However, the proliferation of strip malls and other venues ultimately drove retail and foot traffic away from Maryville’s downtown core. As the years progressed, increased traffic on Lamar Alexander Parkway created a division between the MC campus and downtown, despite the convenience of a pedestrian bridge.

“Fortunately, the tide seems to now be turning for downtown Maryville, thanks to forward-thinking investors who want to see the area thrive once again,” Coker added.

A downtown Maryville landmark, the building — opened in 1941 as J&K Grocery, the storefront of which faces East Church Avenue and extends over the space currently occupied by Tri-Hop Brewery — has undergone extensive renovations, Coker added, giving College leaders, who plan to lease the main/street level floor of the building, a blank slate. As a result, it will serve as a hub for the College’s newly created Hospitality and Regional Identity program of study, coordinated by incoming professor Dr. Angela Sebby and funded through major gifts earmarked specifically for that program.

Once completed, the MC Downtown Center, Coker said, will feature:

  • Two classrooms primarily for Hospitality and Regional Identity courses, but open for any other classes as available;
  • Offices for the program’s faculty;
  • A teaching/demonstration kitchen for the Restaurant at RT Lodge (one of the program’s vocational and financial partners) and other local dining partners, to offer cooking classes for the external community;
  • Brewing equipment and teaching space for the newly created Fermentation Sciences minor at MC, as well as a place to offer beer-brewing classes for the external community; and
  • A small Maryville College gift shop, where MC gear can be purchased.

“This Downtown Center will be the place where the College meets the community, and where the presence of students, faculty and staff contributes to the resurgence and vitality of downtown,” Coker said. “In turn, we believe students and employees will deeply benefit from the experience of learning and working in historic Downtown Maryville, gaining a greater appreciation for the power of ‘place’ in one’s experiences, which is a significant focus of the Hospitality and Regional Identity program.”

The center, Coker said, is another sign of the dual commitment to joint improvements between the College and the City of Maryville. Recently, city officials announced plans to improve the College Street Corridor, running from the pedestrian bridge linking campus over East Lamar Alexander Parkway to the center of downtown, including such improvements as an archway over the bridge entrance, refurbished sidewalks and lighting on College Street and a tartan-themed crosswalk that keeps with the Scots pride that’s an integral part of the MC image. In addition, Christy McDonald Slavick, executive director of strategic initiatives at MC, serves as the chairperson of the Downtown Maryville Association, further strengthening the bonds between the two entities.

“Private colleges must increasingly act in the public interest, and in the case of the MC Downtown Center, we are bringing our programs to the community, as well as playing an important role in historic preservation and revitalization,” Coker said. “In addition, ‘Place’ has a powerful role in educational experiences, and we look forward to our students learning and interacting in a historic downtown setting where an exciting revitalization is occurring. As we endeavor to be a college ‘of and for the region,’ the Downtown Center is a tangible manifestation of this important goal.”

Such an off-campus venture isn’t a first for MC, Coker pointed out: From 1969 to 1980, the College operated the Tremont Environmental Education Center — now known as the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont — under the supervision of the late Dr. Randolph Shields, a biology professor at the College for decades. In addition, Shields supervised the now-defunct Mid-Appalachian Field Biology Teaching and Research Center from 1967 to 1977, a joint research facility for the Mid-Appalachia College Council.

“The Downtown Center is just another example of the College connecting with the community, in the interest of student learning, as well as serving as a resource for the region,” Coker said. “It’s undoubtedly an audacious and exciting step for the College, and I am grateful for those who are supporting us in this endeavor.” 

MC launches Hospitality and Regional Identity major

Posted on June 2, 2022 by - Uncategorized

A new major will be available for Maryville College students this fall that will offer signature learning opportunities at RT Lodge and other distinctive dining, lodging and event establishments in the area.

Hospitality and Regional Identity is being added to the 2022-2023 College’s catalog following recommendation by the faculty and approval by the College’s Board of Directors last month. The addition brings the total number of programs of study and certifications available to undergraduates to 69. It follows the addition of an Environmental Science major in 2021 and, like Environmental Science, Hospitality and Regional Identity helps position MC as a college “of and for the region” by focusing on how location can influence and enhance the customer experience, as well as meeting a workforce need.

In making the announcement, MC President Dr. Bryan F. Coker said discussions about the major have taken place over several years, but pandemic-related increases in tourism and much evolution in the local industry, especially “high-end” opportunities, made the timing right for the new program in 2022.

“Local hospitality leaders were consulted about the industry’s current and future needs, and we learned of the need for skilled permanent employees who know hospitality and the larger field of management more generally, but who are also knowledgeable about – and appreciative of – the regional context,” Coker explained. “We know that sustainable management of natural and scenic resources and respectful curation of cultural heritage demand a broader range of skills and background knowledge than straightforward management of hospitality properties. With our liberal arts curriculum, we are confident that we can deliver a unique program that will prepare students for successful, interesting and meaningful careers.”

A major in Hospitality and Regional Identity will require 58 credit hours; a minor will require 18 credit hours. Four new courses have been developed that will focus on customer experience, marketing, management and operations and regional identity through food and beverage. Other required and elective courses will draw from current offerings in the Social Sciences, Humanities, Health Sciences and Outdoor Studies areas. The curriculum leans into Appalachian identity, with students having options to study Appalachian cultural and social history, food traditions, religion and the landforms, flora and fauna of the Great Smoky Mountains. Dr. Jenifer Greene, professor of management, will serve as coordinator of the program.

Donations pledged by industry partners are helping to fund the delivery of new courses, one new instructor position and promotion of the program to prospective students and their families.

According to the proposal approved by the faculty and Board, students who complete the Hospitality and Regional Identity curriculum will be able to: 1.) understand the operations of various components of the hospitality industry and how they relate to each other; 2) understand how to create an exceptional customer experience and how a specific place plays a role in this development; and 3) develop critical thinking skills, have knowledge in theoretical perspectives and methodological techniques, and gain experiential learning opportunities.

Opportunities with RT Lodge 

For many future hospitality students, the “experiential learning opportunities” outlined in the program’s learning outcomes will come from RT Lodge, a restaurant, hotel and special event site located on campus and operated through a long-term lease by regional business leaders who are very supportive of the College.

Since it opened in 1998, RT Lodge has been an employer for scores of MC students and graduates, and with the launch of the Hospitality and Regional Identity major, both parties expect to see more students put their academic pursuits into practice there.

“Through our partnership with RT Lodge, we can provide students with a valuable four-year ‘hands-on’ experience that will help equip them with knowledge of local Appalachian food and culture – a contribution to the place-based education, which will be a distinctive of aspect of our program,” Coker said.

Beth McCabe Holman, president of RT Lodge, said she and her team were “thrilled” about the new major and proud to partner with the College on its growth and development.

“The College is a valuable resource to RT Lodge, and it is a privilege to interact with MC students in a working hospitality environment every day,” she added. “What an exciting time for Maryville College and our community!”

The education and experiences offered through a hospitality major can be translated into many areas beyond hotels and restaurants, said Gary Doyle, RT Lodge’s general manager.

“They can be applied to all interpersonal aspects of occupations in business, medicine, religion, sports, arts and education,” he said. “Pairing those with the science of positive regional identity in a broader sense of hospitality would seem a natural field of study for any future city planner, chamber of commerce member or community development professional, among other diverse professions.”

In addition to RT Lodge, students enrolled in the new major may soon be able to gain real-world experience by helping to operate the House in the Woods, a 105-year-old home located in the College Woods that is slated for renovation and eventual use as a College guest house.

Tourism is strong, trending up

Tourism is Tennessee’s second largest industry by employment. As a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Blount County ranked eighth among Tennessee’s 95 counties in visitor expenditures at $337 million in 2020, according to a report issued by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Jobs related to hospitality and tourism in the county have grown from just under 3,000 to more than 4,000 over the last seven years, according to Kim Mitchell, Blount Partnership director of tourism.

“Blount County remains a top destination for travelers domestically and internationally for its tremendous outdoor assets, scenic beauty, music, food, family fun, history, culture and destination sites the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” she said. “All give us an edge against other areas.”

Bryan Daniels, Blount Partnership president/CEO, thanked Coker for leading efforts to get the Hospitality and Regional Identity major instituted, agreeing that it is much needed for the area’s economic growth and development. 

“The experiences gained in this major are vital to tourism by the fact that future employees will be equipped with knowledge and skills needed to become leaders in the hospitality industry,” he said. “Programs like this are crucial when it comes to continuing to educate people on the many assets of the region while offering insight into the administrative, operational and commercial activities that make any business a success.”

Open for Business, Staying Safe During Federal Shutdown

Posted on October 1, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Blount County and the Townsend community remain open and welcoming to visitors while federal agencies operate with reduced staffing. We are closely coordinating with Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) officials and local emergency services to prioritize visitor safety and protect our natural and cultural resources.

What visitors should know now:

  • GSMNP will remain open during the federal shutdown.
  • The federal government shutdown may affect services inside national parks nationwide; many park visitor centers and staffed facilities may operate on reduced hours or be closed, and some routine services (trash removal, staffed restrooms, ranger programs) could be limited or suspended.
  • GSMNP will post official updates and alerts on its website; visitors should check the park’s official “Plan Your Visit / Alerts” page before arriving. National Park Service
  • Many airport personnel will remain on the job; however, travelers should allow additional time when traveling through McGhee Tyson Airport.

Townsend & Blount County alternatives — safe, local options
We encourage visitors to enjoy Townsend and Blount County’s many outdoor and cultural experiences that do not rely on federal staffing, including local trails, state parks, museums, guided outfitters, restaurants and festivals.

Some options include:

  • Shadows of the Past Trail (Townsend): A 10-mile self-guided walking tour through 13 historic sites with interpretive signs.

  • Maryville-Alcoa Greenbelt Trail: Eighteen miles of connected parkway paths linking scenic parks, the Blount County Library, and Maryville College.

  • Foothills Parkway: Catch sweeping fall-color views from one of the region’s most iconic scenic drives with frequent pull-offs for jaw-dropping views.

  • Fly Fishing in Townsend: The Little River runs right through Townsend, offering pristine, accessible waters for trout fishing. Local outfitters provide guided fly-fishing lessons and gear rentals.

  • Horseback Riding in Townsend: Explore gentle forest trails and riverside routes on guided horseback rides with local stables and outfitters.

  • Mountain Biking at Vee Hollow: Ride over 14 miles of purpose-built singletrack and flow trails for all skill levels – located right in Townsend.

  • Tuckaleechee Caverns: Discover one of the area’s natural wonders featuring underground waterfalls, towering caverns, and fascinating geology, open and guided by local experts year-round.

  • Jeep or UTV Rentals: Feel the wind in your hair while taking in the views from the Missing Link or Foothills Parkway in an open-air jeep or UTV.

See our “Things to Do” list in the media kit for more ideas.

Safety first – our guidance for visitors

  • Expect fewer park rangers and limited on-site emergency staffing inside GSMNP; choose short, well-marked trails and avoid remote backcountry travel. Experts and park advocates warn that under-staffed parks can pose safety and resource risks. National Parks Conservation Association
  • Pack out trash and leave no trace — some trailheads may not have trash services during a shutdown.

  • Choose managed, staffed alternatives — state parks, museums and private outfitters with their own staff and safety protocols.
  • Travel prepared — water, maps (paper), first-aid kit, charged phone, and a plan for no restroom or trash facilities.

  • Avoid gated/posted-closed areas — respect closures; do not move or bypass gates or barricades.

  • Check official sources before travel — GSMNP alerts, NPS active alerts page, and local visitor center updates. National Park Service

Economic importance
Tourism is vital to our community. Visitor spending in 2024 reached $610.9 million, supporting thousands of local jobs and hundreds of businesses across Blount County. We’re encouraging responsible visitation to support local economies while prioritizing safety.

For assistance planning a Townsend visit and recommendations outside of the national park, contact the Greater Smokies Region/Townsend Visitor Center at 800-525-6834.

A media kit with local photos and the “Things to Do” alternative list is available here.

Park sets visitation record with 14.1 million visits in 2021

Posted on January 21, 2022 by - Uncategorized

Great Smoky Mountains National Park experienced the busiest year on record with 14,137,812 visits. Visitation exceeded the 2019 record by 1.5 million visits and 2020 visitation by more than 2 million visits. The park has increasingly become a year-round destination with eight monthly visitation records set during the winter and spring months in 2021. 

“In the last decade, park visitation has increased by 57%,” said Acting Superintendent Alan Sumeriski. “While increasing visitation presents complex challenges, we are honored to care for a park that is special to so many people. We remain committed to developing innovative solutions to provide the necessary support for visitor services and resource protection.”  

Roads, trails, front-country campgrounds, and backcountry campgrounds were all busier than normal in 2021. Frontcountry camping increased 40%, while backcountry camping increased 20%. The park continues to experience its highest visitation in the summer and fall with peaks in July and October. However, visitation levels in the winter and spring months are rapidly increasing. In 2021, the park set individual monthly visitation records in January through June, November, and December. During the winter months, December through February, the park had 600,000 more visits than the ten-year average for this time period. During the spring months, March through May, the park had 1.2 million more visits than the ten-year average for this time period.  

Operational costs associated with serving more visitors and protecting resources continue to rise. Annual, year-round needs present significant funding and staffing challenges. To help meet critical needs this year, the Friends of the Smokies and Great Smoky Mountains Association are providing more than $4 million in aid. The park is also slated to receive project-specific, short-term funds to help chip away at the maintenance backlog in campgrounds, wastewater systems, and along roads and trails. Construction timelines and project details for significant rehabilitation work are expected to be announced over the next few weeks for several projects.  

Park managers will continue to work towards improving access and the visitor experience. For more information about these efforts, please visit https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/management/ves.htm. With more use, visitor stewardship is increasingly important and it is imperative that park visitors help care for the park as part of their visit. To learn more about how to #recreateresponsibly and follow Leave No Trace principles, please visit the National Park Service’s website at https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/recreate-responsibly.htm.  

For more information about visitation statistics for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service, please visit https://irma.nps.gov/STATS/. Reports, including the 2021 annual park ranking, will be available over the next few weeks after annual statistics are compiled for all parks.

In other news…

Mitchell named Women in Tennessee Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year 

Peaceful Side Brewery Awarded a Gold Medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival Competition

Posted on October 18, 2024 by - Uncategorized

peaceful side brewery

Peaceful Side Brewery earned a gold medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival (GABF®) competition, hosted and presented by the Brewers Association.

In the 2024 competition, beers and ciders spanning 107 categories and 175 different styles were judged meticulously by 285 judges over 7 days. Awards presented during the Great American Beer Festival competition are considered coveted symbols of brewing excellence globally, and brews that receive an award are considered the most excellent representation of their style category.

Peaceful Side Brewery was recognized with a Gold Medal in the Brett beer-style category for its First Release: Part 2, an iteration of the brewery’s Saison brand. This Saison evolved from the Blackberry Farm Brewery Classic Saison recipe which won a gold medal at the World Beer Cup in 2016 – the renowned international beer competition. Peaceful Side Brewery now produces all Blackberry Farm Brewery beer after the purchase of the brewery in Maryville, Tennessee in December 2023.

Building on the award-winning Classic Saison recipe, Peaceful Side Brewery’s First Release: Part 2 was aged in an oak foeder and dry-hopped with New Zealand Riwaka hops, creating the unique, tropical profile that the GABF awarded the Gold Medal.

“Making beer with artistic intention using quality ingredients is an integral piece of our story as an evolving brewery. We know we make great beer because we’re here every day, working hard to maintain that consistency. To be recognized on a national level for our hard work is an incredible feeling that fills our hearts with joy,” said Chris Meadows, Head of Brewery Operations at Peaceful Side Brewery.

Thanks to a panel of 285 professional judges from around the world and over 250 volunteers, the Great American Beer Festival competition analyzed 9,216 entries. The 2024 competition saw entries from 1869 breweries and cideries from all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

“The Great American Beer Festival competition recognizes greatness in innovation and craftsmanship from brewers all over the country, and the Brewers Association takes great pride in crowning one winner from each category as ‘Best in Class,’” remarked Chris Williams, competition director for the Brewers Association. “The Brewers Association is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s winners.”

Places to Swim on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Posted on May 27, 2025 by - Blog, Uncategorized

Written by: Emily Huffstetler

As temperatures climb in the region, taking a dip in the Tennessee River or pool seems like the perfect way to cool off. These are our favorite places to swim on the Peaceful Side of the Smokies.

Townsend Campgrounds with a Pool

Townsend / Great Smokies KOA has a pool open from May 27 to Sept. 2. Photo courtesy of Townsend / Great Smokies KOA.

If you’re planning a weekend getaway in the Smokies, these campgrounds all have pools:

Louisville Point Park

Louisville Point Park if a popular gathering place among locals. Photo courtesy of Visit Knoxville.

Located along the Tennessee River at the end of Cox Road, this 16-acre park offers plenty of room to spread out.

It has water access for swimming, paddling and fishing. On land, you can enjoy the playground, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits and numerous picnic spots.

Additionally, a pavilion accommodating up to 100 people, equipped with picnic tables, a charcoal grill and electrical outlets, is available for reservation.

Springbrook and John Sevier Pools

Springbrook Pool has a water slide and a diving board. Photo courtesy of Maryville-Alcoa-Blount County Parks & Recreation Commission.

Springbrook Pool and John Sevier Pool are public pools in Blount County, both open for the season until August 3. John Sevier Pool extends its season for an additional weekend on Aug. 9 and 10.

Springbrook Pool is open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, while John Sevier Pool is open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Both pools are open11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Springbrook Pool closes at 5 p.m. on May 27, June 10, June 24, July 1 and July 15 for swimming meets. John Sevier Pool is open only for lap swimming from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays.

Springbrook Pool has pool party hours from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Daily admission is $4.00 for students ages 3–18, $5.00 for adults 19 and older, and $4.00 for seniors 55 and older. There’s a $1.00 discount off daily admission after 5 p.m.

Seasonal pool passes, valid at both pools, are also available for purchase at the Parks & Rec. office. You can learn more about the costs of pool passes for individuals and families here.

Townsend Wye

Many locals call the Townsend Wye “the Y” for short.

Nestled just inside the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where Little River Road and Lamar Alexander Parkway intersect, the Townsend Wye is one of the most popular swimming holes in the area.

Besides swimming, it’s a great spot for snorkeling, floating or simply relaxing by the water. You’ll find shallow areas, especially along the pebbly shore, as well as deeper spots where you can’t touch the bottom.

To secure a convenient parking spot during summer’s peak, plan to arrive earlier in the day.

Please note that the GSMNP advises against water recreation in the park due to numerous hazards and dangers. If you choose to swim here, take necessary precautions, and remember to supervise children. You can learn more about water safety in the GSMNP here.

Need new aquatic gear? Visit Little River Trading Co. or Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center (SMOC) to purchase swimwear or water shoes. SMOC and Smoky Mountain River Rat have rafts and life jackets available to rent.

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Born and raised in Maryville, Tennessee, with roots tracing back to Cades Cove, Emily Huffstetler is a proud Maryville College graduate and passionate storyteller of the Greater Smokies region.

Registration now open for Great Smokies Experience at Maryville College

Posted on March 14, 2022 by - Uncategorized

After the COVID-19 pandemic forced a two-year hiatus, Maryville College’s Great Smokies Experience will return in July to give rising high school juniors, seniors, and recent high school graduates an opportunity to take part in a learning lab like no other.

The 10-day program will give participants both college credit and a chance to explore environmental issues and sustainability studies while living and learning in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

“It’s an opportunity to gain an understanding of complex relationships between the natural world and the social world, as well as an understanding of how our sense of place is a part of who we are,” said Dr. Andrew Gunnoe, associate professor of sociology at Maryville College and the Great Smokies Experience coordinator. “It’s understanding that here in the Smokies, we have a unique biodiversity region that informs our approach not just to sustainability, but who we are as a people and a culture.”

This year’s program will take place July 14-25 on the College’s campus and at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, a residential environmental learning center located on the Tennessee side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). Participants who complete it will earn three hours of credit for the Environmental Issues and Sustainability Studies (ENV/SUS 101) class from Maryville College.

In addition to hands-on environmental and sustainability work, Gunnoe said, students will learn how various disciplines — political science, history, sociology, biology and ecology, just to name a few — are tied to their relationship with the land, particularly here in East Tennessee.

“We do root our educational program in science and the scientific community and what it tells us, but a lot of it comes down to place,” he said. “We look at structural issues like sustainability as big issues, but also at what we can do in our own communities and our own lives to make small changes. It’s all about understanding the link between ourselves and our environment.”

In addition to Gunnoe, instructors for the Great Smoky Mountains Experience include Dr. Mark O’Gorman, professor of political science and coordinator of the College’s environmental studies program; John DiDiego, education director at Tremont; and Bruce Guillaume, founder and director of Mountain Challenge.

The cost per student for the entire two-week program is $1,799 and includes tuition, fees, room and board, all special events, and transportation to and from the Park. Students will spend the majority of the course living in the national park at Tremont, and the remainder will take place on the Maryville College campus and other important Southern Appalachia sites.

This program will include a variety of activities, including mountain hikes, nighttime exploration of the park, kayaking on Tellico Reservoir, exploring the Maryville College Woods, and taking part in Mountain Challenge, an on-campus program that seeks to build teamwork, enhance communication and teach problem-solving skills through outdoor experiences.

And while classroom work is a part of the curriculum, Gunnoe said, those hands-on experiences make the Great Smokies Experience an interactive program that’s often transformative for participants.

“That’s the key in the Great Smokies Experience — it’s an experience as well,” he said. “Abstract ideas like sustainability can be lost on a 17- or 18-year-old, but a week spent in the Smoky Mountains is not. I kayaked and played in the Smokies in college, and that’s what led me to develop my own environmental consciousness.

“Immersing them in their natural environment is a very important and perhaps life-changing experience. You get college credit, and you’re going to learn some classroom things, but the experience of being outdoors for a week with a cohort of other students, to know what it feels like to climb up Mt. LeConte and look out over the Tennessee Valley — they’re not going to forget that.”

Space is limited, and while the deadline to apply for the Great Smokies Experience is May 10, spots are filling quickly, Gunnoe said. Interested participants are encouraged to apply now.

For more information, contact Gunnoe at [email protected] or visit the website at maryvillecollege.edu/gse.

RT Lodge unveils plans for new Carriage House spa and Meeting House

Posted on August 20, 2025 by - Uncategorized

RT Lodge Carriage House exterior

RT Lodge, an approachable luxury retreat nestled in nature on the historic Maryville College campus, has unveiled plans for two new spaces – The Carriage House spa and the Meeting House, to offer an immersive experience for locals, travelers and corporate guests.

The lodge, renowned for its welcoming hospitality, inviting accommodations and gourmet dining, is expanding to feature a serene day spa and modern meeting space set among old growth trees.

Named after the updated 1930s Carriage House it occupies, the spa will offer facials, massages, an infrared sauna and comprehensive body treatments to accommodate individuals, couples and groups.

“The Carriage House spa will offer peaceful views and personalized hospitality for respite and rejuvenation,” said Beth McCabe Holman, president of RT Lodge. “Guests are invited to experience a massage, enjoy champagne, and take in natural surroundings under the arbor outside or from lounges thoughtfully positioned with tree views.”

The Carriage House will feature seven treatment rooms, including one designed with couples in mind. A wet bar will serve champagne, rosé and white wine. Guests may also order cuisine from a distinct spa menu and explore curated retail offerings, including HydroPeptide facial lines, comfort essentials like robes and pajamas, and eventually even signature RT Lodge products.

The boutique retreat also will unveil The Meeting House this fall, offering an escape from the routine for overnight events, weddings, corporate retreats and gatherings.

“We invite guests to leave the grind behind and collaborate among the trees,” Holman said. “The Meeting House at RT Lodge comprises reclaimed wood beams, peacock paver floors and glass walls that immerse you in the surrounding woods, offering distraction-free comfort that allows your group to be fully present together.”

Available for overnight guests, the space can accommodate up to 75 people and offers modern audiovisual amenities.

Local firms Johnson Architecture and Joseph Construction are overseeing the design and construction of both new facilities.

The boutique lodge already offers cozy overnight accommodations, gourmet cuisine and complimentary bike rentals. The new Meeting House and Carriage House spa will enhance and complement these offerings to create an immersive retreat experience in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Guests can enjoy fine dining at The Restaurant at RT Lodge and creative cocktails in the Morningside Room. Overnight guests will enjoy the nourishment of a hot breakfast including eggs, bacon and homemade breads and pastries.

RT Lodge is located in charming Maryville, Tennessee, only minutes away from McGhee Tyson Airport, metropolitan Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

RT Lodge Carriage House exterior
RT Lodge meeting house exterior