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Kingsport is a great place to be during Easter, with an abundance of fun events held around the city in celebration of this Christian holiday. Read on to find out about four entertaining Easter events that you and your family can attend around The Model City. 1. Egg Hunt and Puppet Show This annual show is normally held in Warriors' Path State Park, and it makes for an exciting way to celebrate Easter. Music and puppetry are used to tell the story of Easter in a fun and engaging way, and afterward, you and your family can partake in the traditional egg hunt. 2. Hop to It Community Egg Hunt It wouldn't be Easter in Kingsport without a frantic egg hunt. Upwards of 3,000 people from Kingsport and further afar normally attend this event, which is typically held in the field adjacent to the playground at Andrew Johnson Elementary School. You'll have the chance to win some amazing prizes that'll keep the kids happy, including video games, bicycles, and more. There is free food available so you and your family can be full of energy for that all-important egg hunt, which is split into three different age groups to give everyone a fair chance to find some eggs. There are 20,000 candy-filled eggs in total to be found. You can also get a memorable family photograph with the Easter Bunny or have the kids' faces painted. more 3. Son of Sorrows Son of Sorrows is a wonderful Easter musical held every year at the LampLight Theatre on Broad Street in Kingsport. The actors normally begin rehearsing for this show in mid-January, so a lot of preparation goes into getting it right. The play depicts the last few days of Jesus Christ's life, with the actors delivering powerful and memorable performances. The entire production is huge; Son of Sorrows features more than 100 actors. The show wouldn't be what it is without the dedication of the 50 volunteers who work as tech crew, ushers, and theater courtesy staff. You can check out the dates and ticket prices for this year's event on the theater's website. 4. Bays Mountain Observatory There's something happening all the time at Bays Mountain Park, which is Tennessee's largest city-owned park. You should visit the Bays Mountain Observatory this year for an alternative and intriguing way of celebrating Easter. Light is one of Christianity's most important symbols, and the normally clear skies in Kingsport at this time of year make it an ideal time to celebrate the sense of hope and divinity that transcends Christianity by observing the sun up close. Daytime viewings of the sun are normally held on weekends at 3 p.m., and the high-tech equipment ensures you get a really clear image of the closest star to Earth and its most abundant source of light. Consider attending some or all of the above family focused events for an entertaining Easter this year. You'll be sure to make some special memories. Image via Pixabay

Since so many families enjoy owning Prius vehicles, Toyota has spent a lot of effort making sure the model uses the latest safety features. After all, few things are more important than keeping your family safe on the road. If you're interested in buying a new vehicle, make sure you pay attention to these four safety features included in the latest Prius models. Intelligence Clearance Sonar A lot of drivers assume that accidents happen on the road. A large number of vehicle collisions, however, take place in parking lots. Toyota developed Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) technology to make parking easier and safer. The current version of ICS uses several sensors to detect objects all around the Prius. It can recognize obstacles approaching from several yards away and even help you avoid vehicles in adjacent parking spots. The 2017 Prius relies on ICS when you drive at speeds below 10 mph. This makes it perfect for navigating parking lots that often present difficulties for drivers. more Color Head-Up Display Distracted drivers create danger for everyone on the road. Toyota offers an optional color head-up display for the Prius that lets the driver monitor speed and navigation without looking away from the road. The Prius still has a standard display, but it also projects information onto the windshield. The next time you need to follow directions, you won't have to take your eyes off the road to check an auxiliary screen. Toyota Safety Sense Toyota Safety Sense comes standard with every version of the new Prius. Toyota Safety Sense is a comprehensive safety system that offers several features, including Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams that come on in the dark, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control that adjusts the car's speed when it approaches slow-moving vehicles. The version of Toyota Safety Sense included in the Prius can detect pedestrians as well as vehicles. If someone steps in front of or behind the Prius, the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection will warn you. If you don't respond, the safety system will apply the brakes to help avoid a collision. Toyota Safety Sense uses a combination of cameras and radar to offer an exceptional level of safety for you and other drivers. Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) LATCH uses anchor points that hold car seats firmly in place during accidents. Vehicle designers decided over a decade ago that standard child safety seats were not adequate to protect children during collisions. LATCH offers a more sophisticated way to protect children. The 2017 Prius has several features that help drivers avoid collisions, but no technology can eliminate accidents. LATCH makes it possible for children to remain as safe as possible in an uncertain world. Toyota has always been at the forefront of safety technology. The latest version of the Prius shows that the car company remains committed to keeping drivers safe. Whether you're traveling across the continent or just making a quick trip to the grocery store, you can count on the 2017 Prius to keep you and your family safe.

The idea that "dogs love to ride in the car" hearkens back to the days of the horseless carriage. The slobbery truth, however, is that dogs can suffer from motion sickness, just as some people can. Before taking Fido along on that next road trip, be sure to do some research. Why Do Dogs Get Carsick? The science behind dog carsickness is a bit hazy, but it seems that dogs get carsick for the same reasons that people do. Your dog's inner ear fluids slosh around when riding in a car, and if their neurological input doesn't match what Rover is seeing, nausea can be the result. When humans drive cars, for example, carsickness is almost never a factor because they can see the road ahead and predict movements such as turns and stops. It's generally ill-advised to let your dog drive, however. more What Are the Symptoms? The most obvious manifestation of dog carsickness requires a wet/dry vac and some deodorizer, making you wish they still made vinyl car seats. More subtle symptoms include excessive drooling, panting, lip smacking, or yawning. Your mutt may also seem nervous or listless. If more than nine people are required to drag your terrified, whining pooch into the backseat, this may also be a sign. What Can Be Done? Anxiety may be the cause of your dog's plight. If Spot's only car rides are to the vet for neutering and shots, you can hardly blame him. Dogs make associations, just as humans do. To prevent this, take your dog for short rides to places you know they enjoy, like the park or the river. Give a treat when they get in the car, and keep a special toy in the backseat just for car rides. Try the same remedies that work on humans. Instead of a crate or kennel, use a dog harness that allows them to face forward and see out the window. Of course, crates are easier to hose out if Lucky gets unlucky, but you'd save her a lot of potential misery. Lining the seats and floor with old towels is smart insurance against accidents. If you put your pooch in the front seat so he gets the clearest view of the road, keep in mind that the passenger airbag can potentially kill your pal if there's a collision, so be sure to turn off the passenger airbag during your drive. If this isn't possible, slide the seat as far back from the dashboard as you can. Other helpful ideas include limiting the amount of food given to your dog before a scheduled trip, lowering the windows a bit to balance out the air pressure inside the cabin, and giving them a small, sugary treat before you leave. Tiny amounts of sugar seem to help with carsickness, but be sure to never give dogs chocolate or any candy containing xylitol, as both of these are toxins for them. Medications are available from your vet if none of these remedies work. Nothing brings canines and their human servants together like car trips. Do everything you can to make these rides as pleasant, safe, and relatively clean as possible. Both Bowser and your upholstery will thank you for it! Image by Radosław Zmudziński from Pixabay

If you think a "book club" is something made out of wood pulp that's handy for beating a caveman to death, you may need to spend a bit more time at your local library. Better yet, join one of the many cool book clubs in the Kingsport area, and you'll find that books are indeed weapons of mass enlightenment. Folks from all walks of life can easily find a book club that's just right for them. Kingsport Public Library Teen Book League The Kingsport Public Library Teen Book League is not a group of superheroes, though they might as well be. This book club draws its members from 6th grade through 12th grade and is based out of the Kingsport Public Library. During the fall and winter months, they read and discuss books that have been nominated for the Volunteer State Book Award. When spring arrives, they vote for their favorites in various categories to create a list of Tennessee Teen book selections. The Book League assumes one of the most important roles in today's society of young readers. They help navigate the crowded world of published books. With so many titles, authors, and subjects to choose from, the process of selecting what to read can be daunting. Groups like the Book League are a tremendous help. The group meets twice a month from 4 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. Join them to not only discuss literature but also to make friends and have fun. more Between the Covers Book Club Geared toward senior members of the community, Between the Covers Book Club meets every first Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. The group gets together in the Card Room at the Senior Center located at 1200 E. Center St. Their selections are thoughtful and robust, with subjects ranging from politics to history to philosophy. Their October 2016 selection, for example, was the insightful "Killing Reagan" by Bill O'Reilly. This gripping story of his near-assassination was the fodder for a greatly absorbing conversation between members of the group. Kingsport Book Club The Kingsport Book Club has a fascinating history spanning nearly 100 years that's highly representative of the local reading community. It began as a small handful of friends casually meeting up to discuss books they'd recently read, and within a couple of years evolved into a more formal and organized group of dedicated bibliophiles. The Kingsport Public Library opened in 1921, with a mere 400 books in its collection, thanks to the efforts of the first members of this book club. Initially, the troublesome issue of funding wasn't solved with public monies. Instead, they held carnivals, bridge parties, and similar events to create their own financial support. It remained a private enterprise until municipal ownership was introduced in 1929. The Kingsport Book Club remains a cornerstone of the community. While the flood of social networking and technology has convinced many that book reading is a dying endeavor, groups such as these prove that the Kingsport community still regards books as critical to the intellectual and emotional growth of the individual. Join a book club and see what you're missing out on. Image via Pixabay

It's a rare occasion when a global automaker releases a new series of powertrains. Toyota's all-new Dynamic Force lineup is poised to shake up the automotive industry and unlock a new world of fuel efficiency, performance, and eco-friendliness. What Is Dynamic Force? Dynamic Force powertrains are a critical component of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. Modular parts and technologies will streamline and simplify Toyota's manufacturing process. Behind each new vehicle's unique skin will be key systems — such as drivetrain, shifters, air bags, and steering — of which there are just a small handful, handpicked for each specific vehicle. Toyota anticipates a savings of about 20 percent and more consistent quality and performance as well. more Dynamic Force Engines Toyota plans to develop nine core engine styles with 17 different variations. These new engines are expected to provide a 20 percent jump in fuel efficiency, a 10 percent increase in power, and a 15 percent reduction in CO2 emissions. These improvements are a result of reduced internal friction and decreased loss of energy through the cooling and exhaust systems. Adding to performance are lower centers of gravity and lower engine heights. To date, only one engine has been revealed. This 2.5-liter four-cylinder will probably make its debut in the 2018 Camry. High-speed combustion with variable control is one of the many new technologies that makes this an engine that Toyota claims is among the world's most energy-efficient offerings. Dynamic Force Transmissions Four new automatics, including a new Continuously Variable Transmission, will be included in the Dynamic Force lineup. Two have surfaced so far. The eight-speed is for front-wheel drive vehicles, and the 10-speed is for rear-wheel drives. Some of the world's fastest gear changes can be found in the 10-speed. Of the four new transmissions, a total of 10 variations will emerge. Friction is the enemy of all transmissions, which is why the new Dynamic Force offerings feature low-friction clutch packs and gear teeth surfaces. When compared to a six-speed automatic, about 50 percent of friction loss is recovered. Close-ratio gear shifting ensures optimal acceleration. Despite their enhanced performance, these new transmissions are both lighter and smaller than the ones they will replace. Dynamic Force Hybrid Systems As the manufacturer of the Prius, perhaps the most iconic vehicle on the planet, Toyota naturally includes hybrids in its TNGA vision. The company has developed the Toyota Hybrid System II in order to trim weight and size from its hybrid drivetrain. Six different Dynamic Force hybrid systems are in the works, with 10 total versions. Three have already been unveiled. Plug-in hybrids with also receive a Dynamic Force refresh. A new dual-mode drive system will allow hybrid motors to power the wheels instead of merely serving as generators for the batteries. A new lithium-ion battery will feature a higher capacity and extend EV range. Toyota claims it's a bit too early to specify when these new systems will show up, but it predicts that by 2021, about 60 percent or more of its vehicles will use TNGA Dynamic Force setups. Once again, Toyota is poised to change the automotive world, and we can't wait to see what's next.

The fuel we choose to put in our gastric gas tanks can make the difference between our being sleek sports cars or smoke-belching jalopies. Those who care about what they eat are all too familiar with the challenges of dining out. Who knows how it's prepared, or where the ingredients come from? Fortunately, as home to the Healthy Kingsport initiative, this town has no shortage of local restaurants providing high-octane premium fuel for your body. Mustard Seed Cafe The quaint, laid-back Mustard Seed Cafe prides itself on locally sourced, fresh, and healthy ingredients. It serves a variety of sandwiches, quiches, and specialty coffees. All of the soups are made daily from scratch. Folks rave about the Tomato Pie quiche, the chicken salad, and the Micah's Smash sandwich. Mustard Seed is nutrition for the soul as well as the body. The pleasant service, relaxing atmosphere, and roomy interior make it a perfect place for a healthy and refreshing meal. Oversized windows flood the restaurant with light. Outside seating is available for those who want an additional dose of vitamin D with their lunch. more Panera Bread Though Panera Bread is a huge chain restaurant, it doesn't mean they don't care about providing healthy meals that are responsibly sourced. Kingsport knows this, and Panera's presence is welcomed and embraced. The restaurant features fresh-baked bread and a wide variety of sandwiches and salads. Panera has made a commitment to remove all artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners from every one of its cafe and Panera at Home grocery products by the end of 2016. It has even created an extensive "No No List" of commonly used food additives such as sodium benzoate, FD&C colors, sulfites, and glycerides, all of which are either banned from Panera's food or are in the process of being removed. Panera is committed to offering menu transparency to all who choose to dine there. Barbaritos As a member of the Healthy Kingsport family, Barbaritos is dedicated to providing fresh ingredients, lean meats, gluten-free options, and a variety of nutritious choices. Its "healthy initiative" menu features delicious offerings such as veggie burritos, guacamole salads, jerk fish tacos, and burrito bowls. The food is prepared fresh every day, salad dressings are made in-house without preservatives or additives, and protein selections include all-natural chicken, 100 percent sirloin steak, organic tofu, and lean ground turkey. Check out the extensive fresh salsa bar to add some pizazz to your meal. Stir Fry Cafe This Asian fusion cafe offers a wide spectrum of choices for the healthy eater. Sushi, noodle bowls, and fresh-grilled meats and seafood are all delicious options. The menu is vast, encompassing Japanese, Chinese, and Thai specialties. The cafe even serves burgers, offering not only half-pound Angus beef patties but also grilled chicken breast and vegetarian black bean burgers. Items that are normally frozen or premade, such as French fries, sauces, and even cheeses, are made from scratch right on the premises. Stir Fry Cafe offers fare that's not only scrumptious but also homemade and thus free of preservatives and other chemicals. Health-conscious Kingsport denizens need not starve when dining out, thanks to restaurants such as these. Next time your fuel tank hits the red, consider filling up at one of these fine establishments. Image via Pixabay

While Toyota has been leading the way in the green car market for 20 years, with the Prius being a popular choice for many eco-conscious drivers, it held off on a hybrid version of the Rav4 — until now. The first Toyota RAV4 Hybrid was launched in 2016 to rave reviews, and it's quickly following it up with a 2017 model. If you're an eco-friendly driver who loves being out in nature, how will the RAV4 Hybrid match your outdoors lifestyle? Capable Powertrain The RAV4 Hybrid's mix of 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors, and battery pack combine to pump out sufficient juice for adventures in the backcountry and tackling some light off-roading. Their combined power amounts to a not-too-shabby 194 horsepower. Being a hybrid, it is more responsive on acceleration because of the instant power provided by the two electric motors. The first motor mobilizes the front wheels, and the second motor powers the rear wheels and quickly kicks in when extra traction is needed. more All-Wheel Drive Out of the overall lineup of eight models, only the three hybrid models come standard with all-wheel drive. The Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive with intelligence (AWD-i) provides for the best handling in snow compared with the non-hybrid models. If you thought hybrids are best driven only on city streets, think again. Ample Space For adventurers, sports lovers, and camping enthusiasts, you'll find space for all your equipment, gear, kids, and pets. The vehicle cabin is very roomy, and there's plenty of storage for cups, bottles, and other items. The front console's cleverly designed holder fits travel flasks with space for the handle as well. With plenty of cargo space in the trunk and 60/40 split rear seats that fold down to create 73.4 cubic feet of total space, it's spacious enough to accommodate luggage and various types of equipment. Drop smaller items into the cargo net hammock, which prevents them from rolling around in the trunk. The hybrid also boasts a better towing capacity of 1,750 pounds compared to the 1,500 pounds of the non-hybrid models. Technology to Aid You Being on the go means venturing into unknown territory. RAV4 not only helps you navigate to your destination easily but also does so with your favorite tunes playing along. The Entune audio system with integrated navigation and app suite helps guide you. Worried you'll run out of gas or your battery will run flat? Fear not. The Hybrid Synergy Drive system and Energy Monitor let you easily keep track of how the gas engine, battery pack, and electric motors are performing. Particularly reassuring on a long-distance trip is knowing that Toyota Safety Sense now comes standard across all RAV4 models. This includes pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beam headlights. You'll be pleasantly surprised to find the RAV4's hybrid models actually perform better on more challenging terrain than the non-hybrid models. Remember that this is a compact crossover SUV that won't handle the rougher off-roading — that's best left to the 4Runner and Land Cruiser models. For those who love a little exploring from time to time, the RAV4 Hybrid adequately meets your needs. Image via Pixabay

Those who are fans of the cute and compact hatchback, listen up: Toyota's 2017 lineup is bringing back the hatchback. Technically it has already been in the Toyota family under the Scion brand. Scion was a division of Toyota targeted at a young market with more sporty compact cars. Toyota decided to shut down the Scion brand in 2016 but is bringing in the iM model under the Toyota badge in 2017. With this additional model coming onboard, what are the differences between the Corolla and Corolla iM – and which one should you choose? Toyota Corolla Sedan The trusty Corolla Sedan turned 50 this year. Since it first went into production in 1966, it has consistently been a top seller for Toyota and named the world's bestselling car. It always scores top marks for dependability and reliability, so with this long-established pedigree you're assured of what you're getting. There are seven trim levels, including a 50th Anniversary Special Edition in black cherry. Pricing starts at $18,500 for the L model and escalates to $22,680 for the top-of-the-range XSE. This means you will have a wider variety of features than on the Corolla iM to choose from, like Smart Key System with push-button ignition and nice touches like a moonroof. more For those who love sporty features, the SE, XSE, and 50th Anniversary Special Edition models feature sports gauge cluster with illuminated speedometer and tachometer, a sport button on the center console that engages the engine's sports mode, and paddle gear shifters located on the steering wheel. In terms of fuel efficiency, there's only a smidge of difference between the two models: 28 mpg city/36 highway for the Corolla compared to 27 mpg city/35 highway for the iM. For the eco-conscious and fuel-savers, there's an Eco Mode on the Corolla LE Eco that adjusts the gas pedal output and air conditioning to improve fuel-efficiency even further. Toyota Corolla iM No need to painfully compare various trim levels, Toyota keeps it simple with just one model for the Corolla iM. While this is a slightly smaller car, it comes in at $18,750 – $250 more than the base-model Corolla. In terms of space, the Corolla iM has 7 cubic feet more cargo space. However, the Corolla is the one with more legroom. The Corolla is still a practical-looking sedan, but with sleeker lines and a more prominent grille on the 2017 model while the Corolla iM is sportier with a sharp, distinctive snout. It's definitely the more racier looking of the two. The iM sports the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine as the Corolla, but optional CVT transmission and sportier suspension helps the iM better hug corners.  You'll find the sports gauge cluster on the iM too, plus sports-style front bucket seats. Which Is the Car for You? The two models share many similarities in features, engineering, fuel efficiency, and price. The main difference is one is a sedan with more legroom and the other a hatchback with more cargo space. The Corolla still makes a solid choice for a family sedan. For a younger set looking for a fun and sporty runaround, the Corolla iM is the choice for you. Image via Pixabay

The biggest advantage of buying an electric vehicle is never having to roll into the gas station again, as well as doing your part to help the environment. Although you'll be saving a fortune in fuel, you will need to buy a charger and pay for the installation. You may wonder if it's worth the hassle. Here are the answers to the most common questions asked by drivers thinking about buying an electric vehicle. What Type of Charger Do I Need? Charging your car requires Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). That's the technically correct term for the charger. There are Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. Level 1 charging simply means plugging your vehicle into your home's standard electric outlet. However, your home only provides a 120-volt outlet, which means it takes a lot longer to charge the car. Depending on the type of car, it can take up to 20 hours. Another potential problem is the amount of power it draws could overload your home's electric circuit, causing breakers to trip. Professionals agree it's best to buy a Level 2 EVSE. These are 240-volt charging stations that require a dedicated electrical circuit, and you will need to get a professional electrician to install it. It's worth it because the charge time is significantly less. more What Are the Costs? An EVSE costs between $500 and $700, depending on which brand you buy. This excludes the cost of installation. Most people have their chargers wall-mounted, but you can also consider a portable charging station, which costs roughly the same. If you move, it will save you the trouble of removing the wall-mounted one and reinstalling in your new home. Getting a professional electrician to install the charger will also cost you, but those costs can vary wildly. A straightforward job can cost only $200, but prices will soar if you need to upgrade your home's electrical circuits and wiring. How Will This Impact My Electricity Bill? According to Plug-In America, the average cost of electricity in the U.S. is 12 cents per kWh, and the average person driving the average EV 15,000 miles per year pays about $540 anually to charge it. This is, of course, also depends on your utility company. One thing to bear in mind is that some electric companies offer special time of use rates to EV drivers, which can sometimes drive down your overall electric bill. Will My Home Need to Be Rewired? Aside from installing the dedicated electrical circuit for a Level 2 charger, there should be no further work needed. You will not need to rewire your home. However, if your home has electrical issues, you're going to have headaches. If you electrical circuit can't cope with the demands of an EV charger, or you have faulty or old wiring, then you're looking at a much bigger job. Weighing the pros and cons of buying an electric vehicle is important in making your decision. In the long run, the money you'll save per year on fuel will be worth it. Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Dotted across the Kingsport region in Tennessee are some great venues where you can kick back, enjoy some tasty food and listen to some of the area's best music. Here are a few not-to-be-missed restaurants that support local artists and feature open mic nights. 1. The Woodstone Deli There are a few good reasons to visit The Woodstone Deli. First, their burger is listed as one of the best burgers in town. Second, owner Jeremy Jones has a big heart. He's well-known for giving back to the community, and you'll even find a Give Back Meal. It's a $5 sandwich and if you pay more than the price, the extra money goes toward helping those less fortunate. The third reason is for the varied live music. Wednesday night is open mic night featuring music across various genres, plus you get a basket of wings for only $5. The restaurant welcomes up-and-coming talent, so if you'd like a spot on open mic night, get in touch with the manager. more 2. The Acoustic Coffeehouse If you venture 30 minutes out of Kingsport, you'll find The Acoustic Coffeehouse in Johnson City. Locals and visitors alike thoroughly enjoy the relaxed vibe at this venue. It's nothing much from the outside and not in the best area, but patrons love the atmosphere, the eclectic mix of people, and the great local talent which tends to lean towards folk music. There's also a nice patio space out back, which is dog and smoking friendly. The name may be a bit misleading, as it has more of an unfussy live music bar feel than coffee house feel to it. Beer lovers will appreciate the wide sampling of locally brewed beer. 3. The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room Also called the living room of Johnson City, its easy style is incredibly welcoming. There's a delightful reading corner with armchairs, bookcase, and coffee table. This place is a popular student hangout, with many tapping away at their laptops while downing a latte. It's colorful, quirky, and reminiscent of bygone hippy days. Here, you'll find an owner deeply dedicated to encouraging the exposure of local musicians and bands. This place is perfectly suited to indie music. You might feel as if you're at an indie venue in San Francisco. So sit back and relax – the coffee is superb and they also serve the best chai tea around these parts. 4. Jiggy Ray's Pizzeria If you're hankering for some country and bluegrass music, you'll have to drive just a little further to Elizabethton 40 minutes away. For a pizza joint, it's confusingly country, but it works. They've snagged the title of best pizza in town, and folks rave about the salad bar as well. The music lineup rocks with downtown country on Tuesdays, open mic on Wednesdays, and karaoke on Thursdays. If you're interested in performing, contact them via their Facebook page. If they end up offering you a regular gig, you'll get listed on the website with your own individual event page. Tennessee's music heritage shines through even in its small towns. If you're passing through, make sure to stop at any of these restaurants and support the local music scene. Image by freestocks-photos from Pixabay

Active families need the right vehicle to accommodate their hectic lifestyles. Doctors' visits, soccer and football games, dance recitals, and weekend getaways are just a few reasons why a reliable car is a must. Power packed with advanced safety features, tons of space, and smooth performance, families seeking affordable convenience can have it all with the 2017 Toyota Sienna. One Size Fits All The new Sienna can comfortably fit seven to eight passengers and has notably increased its interior space. This includes a roomier second row for passengers and much needed cargo room for shopping bags or sports equipment. Extra features like multiple climate control options, a touch screen video display, resonating speakers, Blu-ray entertainment capabilities, and 12-volt power outlets make it a top selection for large families. With this type of room, passengers can relax and spread out during long trips or bring a few extra bags for vacation. more Safety First The 2017 Toyota Sienna also gives families a sense of security with its added safety features. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it a five-star safety rating. After performing several tests to look at what could happen during an accident from different angles, the minivan outperformed many of its competitors. Manufacturers were sure to offer families extra alerts, monitoring aids, stabilization features, and even Smart Stop Technology as part of the Toyota Star Safety System. Perfected Performance When it comes to drivability, steering a minivan doesn't mean missing out on a smooth and steady ride. The Toyota Sienna is known for its standard front-wheel drive that offers stability and ease when shifting gears. The van is contoured using specialized technology to prevent vibration that may happen when quickly coming to a stop or crossing a hole in the road. With high-powered brakes, expert power steering design, and reliable suspension, drivers might mistake this van for an oversized sports car. Economical Features With all of these great amenities, the price tag associated with the Toyota Sienna is very much appropriate. It can be purchased for a starting MSRP of $32,540. With 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway as well as 266 horsepower and the ability to reach 117 miles per hour, buyers are racing to the dealership to test out this new model. What's New The Toyota Sienna has been a well-liked van for families for quite some time. It made its way into the market as an alternative to the Previa van in the late '90s. The Toyota brand offers a reputation for solid design within itself, but there are a few minor differences with the new model. It has upgraded its performance with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, additional horsepower, and an advanced transmission with more speed options. Even with a minor price hike, it is still reliable, affordable, spacious, and ready for the road. Overall, there are tons of creature comforts and advanced features offered by the new 2017 Toyota Sienna, making it great for busy families of all sizes.

When the weather gets chilly in the Kingsport, Tennessee, area, it's always fun to plan a little getaway to a nearby lodge. When you take time away from the busy day-to-day activities, you can enjoy a relaxing retreat and take advantage of the beautiful scenery that surrounds the area. RiverStone Resort & Spa This unique property is in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which is about 100 miles from Kingsport. It sits near the Smoky Mountains and includes a variety of condos available for short-term rental. The condos have between one and four bedrooms, so larger groups and families can easily enjoy time together. It's within a short distance from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and next door to the Gatlinburg Golf & Country Club. If you're traveling with kids, be sure to pay a visit to Pigeon Forge Parkway, a fun location that has indoor skydiving, go-kart racing, and bumper boats. more White Oak Lodge & Resort White Oak Lodge & Resort also sits at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the scenery. There are several options available to visitors, including log cabins and condos available for rent. The log cabins have one-, two-, or three-bedroom configurations, while the condos all have two bedrooms. Each dwelling has a fully equipped kitchen, a gas fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and a private porch or patio. The log cabins also have a washer and dryer. Take advantage of the amenities at the resort, including a swimming pool with a grotto, a hot tub near the condos, a scenic nature trail, barbecue grills, and basketball and tennis courts. Stony Brook Cabins The cabins and chalets available through Stony Brook Cabins are spacious and comfortable, making this destination perfect for families or groups of friends. They have smaller one- and two-bedroom options as well as larger cabins with three, four, five, and even six bedrooms. You can also find cabin rentals that are pet-friendly, so you don't have to leave your furry friends behind. The cabins are in and around Gatlinburg, which is about two hours from Kingsport, and sit close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If the weather is nice, take a hike on some of the trails that run through the park or enjoy a relaxing day in your cabin in front of a roaring fireplace if it's rainy outside. The Inn at Henry Horton State Park If you'd prefer more of a hotel atmosphere, pay a visit to The Inn at Henry Horton State Park. It's near Chapel Hill, Tennessee, which is about 300 miles west of Kingsport, but is well worth the longer drive. There are 68 rooms available at the inn, along with 56 RV campsites, eight cabins, and 10 sites for tent camping. Enjoy a meal at one of the on-site picnic areas and take advantage of amenities that will make you feel right at home. This winter, make a reservation at one of these fun lodges or cabins and take a trip from Kingsport to enjoy the natural beauty found in the state of Tennessee. Image by Ida from Pixabay