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Recent College Grad? Get Your $750 Toyota Rebate Here

You have finally graduated from college, and the world is now your oyster. A new vehicle could be your ticket to navigating this unfamiliar world full of fresh opportunities. To help make owning a new vehicle a reality, graduates are encouraged to take advantage of Toyota's College Grad Program to get a great deal and save money. At Toyota of Kingsport, college graduates who meet specified requirements can receive a $750 rebate when they finance or lease select untitled Toyotas, Scions, and Priuses through Toyota Financial Services. Rebate Program Vehicle Choices Toyota makes it easy to find the right vehicle to fit your needs and your personality. From a new sedan or SUV to the convenience of a hatchback or the efficiency of a hybrid, the College Grad Rebate Program is designed with you in mind. Vehicle choices include the new Camry, RAV4, Corolla, Tacoma, Corolla iM, Yaris and Prius models, and Scions. Alternatively, if you are looking for a quality used vehicle, Toyota Certified Used Vehicles or Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are also eligible for the rebate. Rebate Qualifications To qualify for the $750 rebate, you must show proof that you will either be graduating from an eligible school or graduate degree program within six months after you sign the purchase or lease agreement or that you have already graduated from an approved/accredited school at some point during the two years prior. You must also show proof of current or upcoming employment. If you have an upcoming position with a future start date, you must show proof that the start date will begin at some point within a 120-day timeframe of when you received credit approval. The types of schools and programs that are considered eligible include four-year accredited colleges or universities and registered nursing programs. An accredited two-year undergraduate or an associate degree earned from a junior, community, or technical college or an accredited vocational or trade school is also acceptable. You must be able to provide proof in the form of one of these items: a diploma; a letterhead from your college, noting your graduation date and degree earned; a copy of your transcript with your degree and your date of graduation listed; or, if you're still enrolled, a copy of your current transcript. Alternatively, those who are still enrolled may also submit a letter from the registrar that validates your current enrollment and provides your choice of degree program. Financial Services Toyota of Kingsport makes the financing portion easy by allowing students to apply for credit online. Once you have filled out the credit application and it has been processed, you will receive an email notifying you of your status. If you have met all the qualifications and been approved, just print the verification email and bring it with you to the dealership. The next step is the fun part — you get to choose your new Toyota or Scion. Whether you have recently graduated or you are getting ready to graduate, start your new future with the quality craftsmanship you will only find in a Toyota. Image by Andrea1597 from Pixabay

Best Place to go Spelunking in Kingsport, TN

Spelunking: What Is It and Where Can I Do It Near Kingsport, TN

If you are an avid cave explorer, then you know how exciting it can be to explore the ins and outs of a cave on a spelunking adventure. With summer in full bloom, now's the time to load up a new Toyota and head to the hills. Bristol Caverns Bristol Caverns is part of the network of caverns within the Great Smoky Mountains. It is expansive and provides visitors with a colorful vista intertwined with formations from large to small. Tours take visitors along the very paths taken by Indians years ago when they used the caverns as a means of escape for raiding parties. Throughout the tour, you'll traverse three cavern levels and the Underground River located 180-feet below the surface. Bristol Caverns is about a half-hour's drive from Kingsport and open year-round. Appalachian Caverns When you take the guided tour of the Appalachian Caverns, you'll step back in time to as early as 675 A.D. Historical evidence of habitation dating back to more than 1300 years ago was discovered at the caverns, as well as a log cabin that dates back to 1777.  The caverns also served as a hospital, a place for military troops to hide, and a place to make moonshine. The regular guided tour takes a little over an hour for the one-mile journey along gravel and concrete pathways where you'll experience firsthand the artistic beauty of the many formations. The extended tour allows spelunkers to explore undeveloped areas and requires specific equipment to participate. The caverns are open daily for tours. There is also a campground, souvenir shop, and a gem mine. Tuckaleechee Caverns If you don't mind venturing a little further for your spelunking adventure, the Tuckaleechee Caverns are well worth the drive. Located in Townsend, the drive takes about two hours. Open to the public since 1931, the 1.25-mile expanse is a true adventure. The caverns are millions of years old and offer some of the most spectacular examples of living cave onyx formations. You'll see helictites, cave draperies, stalactites and stalagmites, the Big Room — a cavernous area nearly the size of a football stadium — and the subterranean 210-foot Silver Falls. The caverns open for guided tours seven days a week at 10 a.m. March 15 through Nov. 15. Forbidden Caverns Located about an hour and a half away in Sevierville, the guided tours at Forbidden Caverns offer an up-close look at these ancient caverns with a colorful history. The caverns were a source of shelter for Eastern Woodland Indians back in the day. From 1943, the caverns became active as a repository for making moonshine due to the crystal-clear water running through them. In 1967, the caverns opened to the public, allowing visitors to witness extraordinary formations of stalagmites and stalactites, picturesque grottos, ornate walls and columns, and resident bats. Open April through November, guided tours begin at 10 a.m. Enjoy the 55-minute tour and then have some refreshments and pick up a souvenir or two at the gift shop. While spelunking is an interesting excursion into the dark recesses of caves, it can be a dangerous activity even for the most experienced spelunker. With this in mind, never go alone. Guided tours are the best way to enjoy this exhilarating pastime with friends and family. Image by LEEROY Agency from Pixabay

The Benefits of Buying a Car With Limited Ownership

When buying your next vehicle, consider the benefits of choosing a pre-owned model that has had limited owners. Purchasing a well-maintained pre-owned vehicle can save money on future repairs and get you a reliable vehicle at the same time. Limited Ownership Benefits One-Owner Vehicles The ideal choice when purchasing a used vehicle is to find what you're looking for in a car that has only had one owner. While this is the best-case scenario, it isn't always the reality. It may be simple to find what you're looking for both in price and features, but more than likely, in a vehicle that has had more than one owner. A one-owner car is a gem, as it has most likely been maintained by the owner whether they've owned it for one year or five. Since it was purchased new, that means the owner made a significant investment. Because of this, the chances are greater that it has received ongoing maintenance and service checks. A vehicle that is on its fifth owner, for example, may not be in the same great condition as that of one owner. A car's second or third (or more) owners may not have the same inclination to maintain the upkeep of the car since they purchased the car for a much lower price. Another reason that vehicles that have had multiple owners may be problematic is that the vehicles have been subjected to a variety of driving styles that may result in more stress to the cars' parts. Vehicles with limited ownership, especially those with only one previous owner, are generally in better condition, require fewer repairs, and have a higher resale value. What to Look for When Buying Just looking at the odometer isn't going to tell you whether one or more drivers have driven the vehicle. A car, truck, or SUV with 100,000 miles on it might have been logged by one owner or by a series of owners. If the car comes with a set of service records providing the vehicle's maintenance history, the records will often list the previous owner's name (or owners' names). Having an overall history of the vehicle is important. You can gain access to a vehicle's background by asking the dealership's staff about their inventory of vehicles that have a CARFAX history report. If you're browsing the inventory on the dealership's website, look for the CARFAX 1 Owner emblem on the vehicle's information page. The report is based on the car's registration history. CARFAX One-Owner History CARFAX was established in 1986 to provide vehicle information, including model, trim, engine and drivetrain, standard equipment, safety options, and the vehicle's VIN number. A CARFAX report also lists the title and ownership history, including the year the vehicle was purchased, the type of owner (business or corporate), how long it was owned, where the vehicle was registered, and the odometer reading. If accidents or damage were reported to CARFAX, these would also be included in the report along with its service/maintenance records. While it is important to know how many owners a vehicle has had when it comes time to decide, selecting one with the least owners may cost more, but it can be a better bargain in the long-run. Image by Diego Bircher from Pixabay

Gold Courses in Kingsport, TN

Top Four Golf Courses Near Kingsport, Tennessee

Fore! That's the main word you'll use when teeing off and navigating across the greens at some of the area golf courses in Kingsport. Check out a few of our favorites below. Warriors' Path Golf Course Get into the swing of things at Warriors' Path 18-hole course nestled on the scenic shores of Fort Patrick Henry Lake. The course is located inside a state park and is one of 11 golf courses with the distinction of being noted by Audubon International as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Along with an 18-hole par 72 course, Warriors' Path offers a tent and RV camping for those interested in a weekend getaway. Warriors' Path caters to all skill levels and offers lessons for those interested in learning the game or honing their skills. Golfers have access to a practice green and bunker as well as a driving range. Pull carts and a snack bar are available for your convenience. Tee times are required. Reservations are accepted in advance up to six days. The Crossings Golf Club The Crossings Golf Club is your one-stop course for all things pertaining to golf. About a half-hour's drive from Kingsport to Jonesborough, the club is set amid rolling greens dotted with trees and duck-filled ponds. The well-planned 18-hole par 72 course offers a peaceful respite for a relaxing game. If you want to warm up before a competitive game with friends, the club also has a driving range, putting green, practice bunkers, and a practice facility. When you need to refuel, hot food, cold beverages and beer, and snacks are available. The Crossings welcomes public play as well as memberships with family, corporate, single, or junior options available. Please note there is a dress code, and proper attire is required. Crockett Ridge Golf Course No matter your skill level, Crockett Ridge Golf Course offers a challenge. The course is well-planned and designed for players to test their skills. The 18-hole course features four lakes, an expansive playing field, graduating slopes to keep you on your best game, and multiple tee boxes to accommodate skill levels from novice to seasoned player. While visiting, stop by the Pro Shop for any items you might need. The shop has a full line of name-brand equipment and clothing. Golf carts are also available. Cattails at MeadowView Take your game to another level of play when you tackle the greens at Cattails at MeadowView. Situated along the base of Bays Mountain, the views of the mountain and the course's six lakes make for a stunning view while players navigate the 18-hole par 71 course. The course provides exceptional playing conditions for all player levels, with a variety of sand bunkers, grass mounds, a winding stream, and undulating greens to keep players on their quests to make par. Lessons from professional staff members are available and include putting, chipping, and clubs and irons. Cattails at MeadowView is open daily. When you're ready to tee off and play through the morning or afternoon, a challenge awaits you among the Bentgrass greens and Bermuda fairways at any one of these area golf courses. Image by KEN KAMINAGA from Pixabay

Over 60 Years of History of the Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota's Land Cruiser, one of the brand's most popular vehicles, has a rich history of struggle, war, and innovation. What began as a police patrol vehicle has become one of the few vehicles that can conquer both the asphalt and the off-road. Here's a taste of the Toyota Land Cruiser's history. Post-War Struggle The heritage of the Land Cruiser takes us back to the harrowing conclusion to World War II. Following the war, inflation in Japan skyrocketed. To assist with the dangerous consequences of high inflation, the Allied Powers implemented the "Dodge line" economic stabilization policy in 1949. While the policy helped stabilize Japan's inflation, the restrictions of the policy caused industrial production to slow down, sending many Japanese businesses into further struggle. Then, at the end of a month of heavy labor strikes against Toyota, an army from North Korea invaded its neighbors to the south, starting the Korean War. The Toyota Prototype Since the United States held considerable influence over Japan as the Korean War took off, the U.S. military began using Japan as a central supply base and relied on the island nation for significant military production. Japanese automakers were asked to develop prototypes for compact 4x4 trucks. By August, Toyota was designing something special: the Toyota Jeep BJ. Toyota created the vehicle by taking a water-cooled in-line six-cylinder engine and throwing it on an SB-type truck chassis. The Toyota Jeep BJ was first rejected by the National Police Reserve Force in favor of the Willys Jeep. But Toyota didn't give up. Months after the Jeep BJ's rejection, Ichiro Taira, a test driver for Toyota, took the vehicle on a drive up Mount Fuji as officials from the National Police Agency watched on. The Toyota Jeep BJ managed to make its way to the No. 6 checkpoint on the mountain, the greatest height any land vehicle had ever reached. The test won over the officials, and the agency brought on the Jeep BJ as its official patrol car. From Jeep to Land Cruiser After two years of price negotiation and deliberation on vehicle specs, the Toyota Jeep BJ entered large-scale production. In 1953, 298 Jeep BJs made their way onto the streets. At first, only the National Police Agency used the vehicles, but then Toyota began receiving production orders from electric power companies and the Forestry and Agricultural Agency. The following year, Toyota faced claims of trademark violation from the Willys Company, which had created the original Jeep. In response, Director of Technology Hanji Umehara dubbed Toyota's 4x4 truck the Land Cruiser. Since its birth as the Land Cruiser, Toyota's truck has established its place as one of the most versatile vehicles on the market. Over the years, drivers have proven the vehicle in snow, swamps, sand, and in the most isolated areas of the world. Today, Toyota's evolved Land Cruiser continues to conquer every terrain. Test drive one today and see what the heritage of the Land Cruiser has led to. Image via DealerOn

Five Must-See Place on a Family Road Trip in Tennessee

East Tennessee is a beautiful area that is home to a number of attractions and stunning natural locales. It's a popular spot for road trips thanks to the picturesque roadways and plenty of things to do. Here are five must-see places to visit when heading off on a road trip in East Tennessee. Tennessee Aquarium Situated on the Tennessee River, the Tennessee Aquarium highlights the beautiful Tennessee ecosystem as well as wildlife from around the world. Watch playful otters or be amazed by massive catfish. The aquarium has interactive exhibits and includes both fresh and saltwater exhibits plus more zoo-based areas like the newly opened Lemur Forest. Plan to spend at least three hours exploring the aquarium and learning more about the animals and fish that call this incredible aquarium their home. Burgess Falls Burgess Falls is a stunning natural location with streaming water that thunders down an impressive rock formation. It's a quick hike from exit 286 off I-40 to the viewpoint where you can see the falls off I-40. Unfortunately, the trails down to the falls are closed, but the overlook is still stunning. The falls are located in the Burgess Falls State Park, which also has fishing and picnic areas as well as three smaller falls to visit while you're in the area. Navitat Located in Knoxville, Navitat is a super unique destination that has earned rave reviews from visitors. This ropes course is a self-guided adventure that travels through the Tennessee treetops. Get your blood pumping with the zip line or challenge yourself with the more rigorous rope course elements. It's open during the day, but the real magic starts at night. While it is open at night, you aren't completely in the dark: Navitat has created a wonderscape of lights to make your trip even more fantastical. Navitat is located at 2915 Island Home Ave. Chimney Tops Chimney Tops is a quick hike that showcases one of the most spectacular views in all of East Tennessee. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the trail to this natural wonder is only 4 miles in and out and the spire of Chimney Tops looks out over the beautiful picturesque mountain ranges. While the trail is short, it is strenuous, climbing 1,335 feet from the start of the trail with some near-vertical portions but the adventure is worth it. Ruby Falls Ruby Falls is located in Chattanooga and is a waterfall located deep beneath the earth in a dazzling cave formation. The trail to the waterfall is accessed via an elevator, and it is a mostly flat walk with access to stunning rock formations. Trips are guided, and it costs $19.95 per adult. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the area and the cave. Little ones will love the kid-friendly attractions on-site. For even more adventure, guests can choose to access the site via the incline railway instead of driving up. These five locations are just a few of the many neat areas that make perfect road-trip stops while making your way through East Tennessee. Image by 41330 from Pixabay

Four Things You Didn't Know About the Toyota Prius

You've heard about the Toyota Prius' fuel efficiency and its hybrid capabilities, but you may not be aware of the level of detail Toyota has drawn into the bones of this vehicle. Here are four things you probably didn't know about the Toyota Prius. Intuitive Design Since its inception, the Prius has displayed some of the most intuitive and innovative designs, and not just in what drivers can see. For example, the first generation of Prius vehicles featured insulation surrounding the cabin that improved heating and cooling efficiency. To reduce the weight of the vehicle, further improving fuel efficiency, the first-generation Prius also used high-tensile steel and made the rear window glass thinner than normal. Toyota continued improving the Prius' design with every generation. In fact, the third-generation Prius used ecological plastics, derived from plants, in the vehicle's interior trim, making the vehicle even more environmentally friendly. Powerful Efficiency The Prius is known for delivering impressive fuel efficiency, but few people realize how deep that fuel efficiency runs into the core of the vehicle. The first-generation Prius ran on a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle engine that Toyota used to pump up fuel efficiency with light components, a narrower crankshaft, less load on valve springs, and more. The Atkinson cycle engine's design also significantly reduced internal friction. Few drivers would consider the Prius a powerful vehicle, but in addition to fuel efficiency, the second-generation Prius delivered an impressively powerful electric motor. This motor was more powerful than many 1.0- to 1.2-liter combustion engines and even generated more torque at low revs than a V6 diesel engine. Aerodynamic Accuracy Aerodynamics has always been a foundational aspect of the Prius. The efficiency of the aerodynamics really took form in the second-generation Prius, which created the best drag coefficiency in the Prius's class: Cd 0.26. The aerodynamic design went even further in the third-generation Prius, which featured a flip-up design along the rear of the bonnet that reduced airflow disruption over the windshield wipers. Yes, Toyota was even worried about the windshield wipers. The fourth-generation Prius was adjusted by millimeters, with the help of a wind tunnel, to deliver optimum aerodynamics. Innovative Comfort In addition to finding innovative ways to be fuel efficient, the Prius also found a way to make comfort innovative. The second-generation Prius relied on an air-conditioning system that didn't draw on the gasoline engine but rather on the hybrid battery, which meant the AC could run even when the engine was off. The third-generation Prius introduced a solar-powered ventilation system that could be remotely activated so drivers could cool their vehicle minutes before they entered it. The fourth-generation Prius added another level of innovation to its temperature control system. In this recent model, the AC will adjust according to factors like the amount of sunlight entering the vehicle, how many seats are occupied, and the outside temperature. To preserve energy, the system will even minimize airflow around unoccupied seats. The Prius never ceases to surprise us, even several generations into its lifespan. To learn more about the Toyota Prius, take one out for a test drive. Image via DealerOn

Check Out These 4 Charming East Tennessee Towns

Tennessee is known for its southern hospitality and East Tennessee lives up to this reputation with many small charming towns that are warm and welcoming. Whether you're a first time visitor to the state or a resident looking to learn more about Tennessee, we've created this small guide to some of the most charming East Tennessee towns to help you plan your next trip. Read on to learn more about four East Tennessee towns you should make a point to visit. Townsend Townsend is nestled along the Smokey Mountains in an area appropriately named the "Peaceful Side of the Smokey Mountains." Ideal for adventurers who want a home base to explore the rich natural beauty of Tennessee, Townsend is only a short trip away from a multitude of trails and other outdoor adventures. Journey to the Tuckaleechee Caverns and stand in a space that was carved from the mountains tens of thousands of years ago. Or, climb to the top of one of the nearby mountains for an unparalleled view overlooking the peaks and valleys of this ancient mountain range. Jonesborough Described as Tennessee's Oldest Town, Jonesborough is full of stunningly preserved historic buildings and tributes to Appalachian culture. It has plenty of museums for visitors looking to learn more about the history of Tennessee and gain a stronger appreciation of its distinctive culture. The Chester Inn Museum and Washington County/Jonesborough Museum are two of the best. Interested visitors can also embark on one of the many walking tours in the area to get a greater feel for the architecture and the history of the town. Jonesborough also hosts the National Storytelling Festival, one of the most distinctive and interesting festivals in the area that draws in a national and international crowd. Dandridge Dandridge is located by two of Tennessee's largest lakes which makes it a popular spot for avid fisherman to kick back, relax, and drop a line in.  Nature lovers also appreciate the proximity to Cherokee Lake and Douglas Lake and watercraft like canoes and kayaks are available for rent nearby. Dandridge draws in visitors thanks to its charming Main Street, which is on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to a number of shops and cafes. Pulaski Rich in Tennessee history, Pulaski played an important role in the Civil War and is named after a Polish-born American Revolutionary War hero. While there are positive and negative aspects to Pulaski's role in the American cultural landscape, it's now a charming town filled with historic architecture and charming local businesses. Head to the Milky Way Farm Manor House to tour some beautiful examples of home design before taking a stroll through the 1,000-plus acres that surround the house, home to plenty of wildlife and domesticated animals. There is a small museum dedicated to the history of the town in the city library that's worth a visit for visitors interested in learning more about Pulaski. East Tennessee is a beautiful stretch of countryside that's home to many charming small towns that would make excellent road trip destinations. Image by Jen Kindell from Pixabay

What First-Drive Reviewers Are Saying About the 2019 Corolla Hatchback

With more than 45 million units sold over the automobile's 45-year history, the Toyota Corolla is the best-selling vehicle of all time. In 2019, it builds upon its winning ways with the brand-new 2019 Corolla Hatchback. This replacement for the former Scion-branded Corolla iM is one of the most exciting ventures from Toyota in recent memory, rivaling its competition while filling a void within Toyota's lineup. If you're a fan of a hot hatch, get ready for the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback. A Rally Racer or a Family Car? As soon as you lay eyes on the 2019 Corolla Hatchback, you'll start to question yourself. Is it a family car or a souped-up rally racer? The answer is probably a bit of both. Every aspect from the front bumpers to the back of the hatch is tastefully sculpted, yet the rear opens upward to accommodate all kinds of cargo for families. The rear portion also adds a spoiler that improves the aerodynamics while also giving the Corolla a racy appearance. LED taillights finish out the stunning looks of the rear. The front gets an aggressive grille that's delightfully blunt, yet straight to the point. There's no chrome accents or other bling here. Paired with 17-inch alloy wheels, the Corolla has all the familiar cues of a rally car, yet it doesn't compromise its usefulness as a versatile, family vehicle. New Engine Specs The all-new, Dynamic Force 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine gets things rolling for the 2019 Corolla Hatchback, offering a sexy 168 horsepower and up to 151 pound-feet of torque. This beats out its predecessor, the 2018 Corolla iM by a 31-horsepower margin, creating improved performance across the board. The Corolla iM was no slouch, but the hatch provides a 0-60 of 8.7 seconds, a 0-100 of 25 seconds, and a quarter-mile in just 16.7 seconds. Tack on a top speed of 115 mph and the Corolla Hatchback is a speedy little bugger. Handling and Transmission Upgrades A powerful engine doesn't necessarily equate to a superb driving experience. Toyota noticed. That's why the Corolla Hatchback comes with a sports-tuned suspension and your choice of either a rev-matching, six-speed manual transmission or an all-new fixed ratio continuously variable transmission (CVT). Driving purists will assuredly gravitate to the manual transmission, which offers swift shifting and near-perfect gear ratios and revving. However, it's the CVT with a fixed ratio and manual shift mode that's garnering most of the attention. This inventive transmission starts first gear with an automatic transmission-style acceleration, quickly switching to the CVT once you hit second gear. In total, the CVT comes with 10 simulated gear ratios. These mate with paddle shifters found on the steering wheel, allowing you to switch gears at your discretion, making it the first CVT of its kind to allow that type of shifting. This also provides the most efficient mix of power and fuel economy, boasting quick giddy-up and up to 37 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city. With impressive style, speed, and amenities, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback is more than just your average hatch. Look for it to hit Toyota showrooms in late summer or early fall. Image via DealerOn

Plan a Camping Trip to Cherokee National Forest

Covering over 655,000 acres in East Tennessee, and just 45 minutes away from Kingsport, the Cherokee National Forest is an outdoorsman's playground. However, the forest's proximity to the UNESCO-listed Great Smoky Mountains often leaves it as an afterthought. That said, if it were located anywhere else in the South, it would be a definite hot spot. The next time you're in the mood to get outdoors and avoid the crowds, book your trip to Cherokee National Forest. Fees and Permits Before you go, it's important to budget the cost of fees and permits. The best way to enter the forest is by purchasing an annual pass. For $30 if purchased before May 1 and $20 after May 1, this annual pass allows unlimited entry into the forest for an entire year. It's also good for other national forests around the country. Permits are also necessary for certain recreational activities in the park. Check ahead if you plan to have a party of more than 75 people or you plan to hit the off-road tracks throughout the forest. Activities The Cherokee National Forest has dozens of activities throughout the year. The most popular activity in the forest is hiking. With over 600 miles of trails, including 150 miles of the legendary Appalachian Trail, no hike is ever the same. If you're a pro or amateur photographer, don't miss out on the special places throughout the forest. The Ocoee River, Unaka Mountain, Watauga Lake, and Tellico River provide awesome chances to take some world-class photos. Some seasonal activities include whitewater rafting, off-road driving, swimming, tubing, horse riding, fishing, and hunting. Securing Accommodation Campsites are plentiful throughout Cherokee National Forest, regardless of how you like to camp. A historic cabin, 30 developed campsites, RV camping, and other primitive campsites are all available for guests. Donley Cabin For a unique experience, rent the Donley Cabin in Tellico Plains at the southern edge of the forest. At just $35 a night, the Donley Cabin offers a large bed, two bunk beds, a kitchen table with chairs, rocking chairs out front, and an outhouse in the back. Cook up a meal on the grill or start a campfire with wood from the surrounding area. The Donley Cabin has a three-day maximum stay with a max of six guests. Developed and Primitive Campsites With thirty developed campsites spread throughout the park, you have plenty of options. Most campsites have level ground for tents and some have showers. However, water availability varies by the campsite, so plan accordingly. If you want to get away from everything, the park does allow primitive camping but make sure to stay 100 feet from water, trails, and developed areas. RV Camping The forest has plenty of RV campsites for you to choose. However, only a handful of electrical hookups. Inquire at the park entrance to find the right campsite. Whether you're hanging out with friends or family, spending time at Cherokee National Forest should be on your list. Image by David Frampton from Pixabay

Three Places to Adopt a Pet in Kingsport, Tennessee

Every year, the Humane Society estimates that 2.7 million cats and dogs are euthanized in the United States alone, simply because pet owners never consider adoption as an option. This statistic demonstrates the need for adoption and awareness throughout the country. Not only can you save an animal, but you can also find a playmate, confidante, and best friend. If you're in Kingsport, check out these local establishments that offer quick and easy pet adoptions. Sullivan County Humane Society Serving the communities of Kingsport and surrounding Sullivan County, the Sullivan County Humane Society should be the first place you go to find a new pet. The animal shelter treats all its guests with the utmost respect during their stay, and when you arrive, an employee will walk you through the facility. Once you find the dog or cat to call your own, fill out an adoption application. Renters should also be able to provide the number and name of their landlord for approval. Adoptions cost between $20 and $85 depending on whether they've been spayed or neutered. Checks, credit cards, and cash are all acceptable forms of payment. The Sullivan County Humane Society is Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 12:30 to 5 p.m. You can visit their location at 380 Masengill Rd. in Blountville. Petworks Dedicated to providing the best care to homeless animals in Kingsport, Petworks is constantly striving to end animal suffering and reduce overpopulation. While they offer spay and neuter services, the company has dozens of dogs and cats that are eagerly awaiting your love. Adoptions run between $50 and $60 for dogs and $30 to $50 for cats. Vaccinations and initial worming medicines are available onsite, and microchips are available for $20 more. Petworks is located at 2141 Idle Hour Rd. Hours are 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday through Saturday. The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue No-kill facilities are some of the greatest facilities to prevent euthanasia among lost or homeless animals. However, these establishments only have a limited carrying capacity, and the only way they can continue to accept animals is by people regularly adopting. The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has dozens of cats and dogs available for adoption at any given time. All you need to do is fill out an application (you should have a fenced-in yard), pay the appropriate fee, and you can take your bundle of joy home. This shelter is open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. It is closed on Sundays, but you're welcome to leave a message and set up an appointment if you can't make it until then. From lovable little felines to playful pups, these Kingsport area businesses have adoptable pets that will melt your heart. Visit them today to save an animal, make a friend, and create a relationship that's sure to last a lifetime. Image by Laurie Gouley from Pixabay

What's New on the 2019 Toyota Avalon?

Fresh off its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the 2019 Toyota Avalon is the next exciting installment in the Avalon series. This year ushers in the fifth generation of this iconic luxury sedan, boasting more amenities, enhanced performance, and a bolder style. Once you've seen everything the vehicle has to offer, you'll be impressed. Here's a look at all the new gadgets and features on the 2019 Toyota Avalon. Apple CarPlay For the first time ever, Toyota incorporates Apple CarPlay into one of its automobiles, which should send iPhone users into a frenzy. Prior to the inclusion of CarPlay, Toyota relied solely on its Entune 3.0 infotainment system. Although Entune had many superb features, it wasn't able to streamline all the functions of the iPhone into the car's head unit. With Apple CarPlay, you can sync your phone to the 2019 Avalon to access more sophisticated apps, use your phone contacts, and listen to your playlist, all while keeping your eyes on the road. It's just another way that the Avalon improves the overall driving experience. Performance A luxury vehicle doesn't have that true touch of opulence without a racy engine to back it up. That's just what you'll get with the 2019 Avalon. Beneath the hood, the Avalon boasts a 3.5-liter V-6 that boasts 301 horsepower and up to 267 pound-feet of torque. This kicks it up from 0-60 in just 6.0 seconds while blazing to a top speed of 130 mph. This engine pairs with a smooth, eight-speed automatic transmission with manual drive mode to deliver an authentic sports car experience. Tack on the adaptive variable suspension for improved handling and cornering and the Avalon can tear up the pavement with the rare combo of agility and speed. Bold and Stylish Interior Accents The interior of the 2019 Toyota Avalon is simply unbelievable. Sure it has all the tech features you could want, but it's the little touches that make it a cut above the rest. Heated and ventilated seats provide ultimate comfort, while the leather trimming cradles your body as you drive. The available Cognac leather trim adds another degree of opulence to the mix with a softer feel and bolder color. On the Avalon Limited, the vehicle adds real wood-grain trim across the door panels and the dash for yet another layer of lavishness. Aluminum trim adds the final touch that gives the Avalon a unique look throughout the cabin. Finally, the 9-inch color touch-screen display that sits in the middle of the dashboard offers a floating appearance that's appealing to the eye and easy to use. Dual-zone climate control rounds out the top interior amenities that make the Avalon a force in the luxury segment. As the flagship sedan of the Toyota lineup, the 2019 Toyota Avalon has some huge shoes to fill. However, its new features and aesthetics show that it's up to the task, making it an stunning entrant in the competitive luxury market. Image via DealerOn

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