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Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars Benefit Event

Lace up those dancing shoes or at least get ready to come out and support a great cause. Dancing with The Tri-Cities Stars is back for its ninth year! For those not in the know, Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars is an annual benefit event that includes a silent auction, dinner and most importantly – a whole lot of dancing! Each year 10 local “Stars” from Northeast Tennessee spend countless hours practicing their dance routines for a great cause. All proceeds go to benefit SteppenStone Youth Treatment Services in Limestone, Tennessee a great cause that supports and cares for at-risk youth boys age 13-17. Since 2003 SteppenStone Youth Treatment Services has provided counseling and continued treatment programs within a safe, caring environment for young boys. SteppenStone’s primary goal is to help heal and help an underserved segment of the population develop the skills they need to become successful, healthy adults. With the help of our community and all the dancer’s time and effort put into this, can provided the best for the boys in our community. In addition to supporting a great cause, Dancing with the Tri-City Stars is also a great time. Mirroring the format of the hit ABC show Dancing with The Stars, each “Star” performs their dance routine with either Mike or Kim Alder, who together are two time World Champions in the Couples Division of The United Country Western Dance Council (UCWDC)! The female “Stars” even wear actual dresses from the hit show! Once you’ve seen what the skills that the “Stars” have you’ll want to get up and dance too, and the night concludes with open dancing and a live DJ! This year, Toyota of Kingsport’s very own General Manager Brian Griffith will hit the dance floor as one of the Tri-Cities Stars and with the help of the local community and Brian’s dancing feet, we can make a big difference in the lives of adolescent boys across Tennessee. There’s still time to show your support by donating money in Brian’s, or your favorite dancers, name. Donations will give extra points to the dancers, which help them in the competition. Follow the links below to learn more about Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars and to help our General Manager Brian Griffith make a difference: http://dancingwiththetricitiesstars.com/stars/ Image Via Pixabay

Where to Get Southern Comfort Food in Kingsport

Sometimes you just need a little comfort food to calm your grumbling stomach and make life not so bad after all. Kingsport is a Tennesee destination with numerous restaurants serving Southern comfort food you really shouldn't miss. Keep reading to learn about some of them. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Although this is a chain restaurant, it's a reliable place to eat, especially for breakfast. Guests particularly like the hashbrown casserole and the way that many breakfast items come with either toast or biscuits served with apple butter. Besides breakfast fare, you can get a variety of vegetables cooked Southern style, plus chicken, fish, and beef. As is typical in Cracker Barrel restaurants, this Kingsport location features old-fashioned items such as signs, photographs, and vintage home products. That means you have plenty to look at while waiting for your food. If you need another way to occupy your time, check out what's available in the store. Items like specialty candy, home décor items, and even audiobooks (to cater to the people who often stop at Cracker Barrel in the middle of road trips) are always available. However, the store also has a plentiful assortment of seasonal items, so if you're looking for charming items to get your house in the holiday spirit for Halloween or Christmas, stop here to find must-have items and enjoy hearty portions of Southern food at the same time. Southern Smoke BBQ and Burgers This restaurant typically gets good reviews for its friendly service and large portion sizes. People particularly like the pork barbecue sandwiches and the ribs, along with familiar sides like potato salad and cole slaw. Sweet potato fries and cowboy beans are also on the menu. There are numerous reports that you can expect fast service even if visiting Southern Smoke during a very busy time. The restaurant specializes in Memphis barbecue that is dry rubbed with a spice blend then cooked over a flame that includes hickory smoke flavoring. There are also many specialty sauces you can try, from Memphis Blues to Pop's Sweet Heat. These special sauces mean you can have a slightly different meal experience on multiple visits if you choose a different sauce each time. FATZ Cafe People who have reviewed FATZ Cafe often said that the service and food were both outstanding, Many took the time to call out specific people within their reviews to say the attentiveness they offered during meals was unforgettable. Because the menu has so many possibilities, you won't have trouble finding things to eat even if you're very picky. Even better, the restaurant has a kid-friendly atmosphere that makes parents breathe sighs of relief. If you need ideas for things to try, make plans to visit during the Southern brunch and start your day right. Or try a Club sandwich piled high with all your favorite meats, cheeses, produce, and condiments. The baby back ribs are also very tasty. Now you have no excuse the next time you want to chow down on Southern food in Kingsport. These beloved establishments satisfy comfort food cravings. Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

Four Tips to Finance Your First Car in Kingsport, TN

Buying your first car is a major accomplishment, but it's a milestone that can cause understandable stress if you're trying to figure out how to finance the vehicle. Keep reading to get some tips to help you manage the financial side of things without getting too anxious. Understand the Applicable Payments A car is usually associated with a down payment and monthly payments. The down payment is something you have to pay on the day of sale, whereas the monthly payments are recurring amounts that you pay while working towards paying off the total cost of the vehicle. Once you understand the difference between those two types of payments, it's a good idea to use an online loan calculator that will allow you to input different figures and determine how much you can afford to pay per month and offer as a down payment. Get a Relative to Act as a Cosigner One of the issues that people typically run into when attempting to buy their first cars is difficulty proving that they'll be able to pay a car loan back in time. That's often because they don't have a long-term credit history yet. If that's the case for you, see if a parent or other family member is willing to act as a cosigner on your loan. The cosigner is a person who agrees to take over the loan payments if something happens that makes you unable to handle the responsibility. Tell the Salesperson About Your Budget and Other Financial Limitations Car dealerships have financial departments staffed by professionals dedicated to helping customers find reliable cars they can truly afford. That's why it's smart to have a figure in mind that represents the maximum amount you're willing or able to pay for a car. When you're honest with a dealership's salesperson right away about your budget, there's no need to worry that the individual might have the wrong impression and attempt to sell you a car that you definitely could not afford. Also, if you are in a situation where you have bad credit, no credit, or are recovering from financial hardships, mention those specifics to the salesperson too. Usually, those factors don't make it impossible for people to get their first vehicles, and when you provide those details from the start, it'll be easier for a salesperson to discuss feasible options. Try Not to Get a Loan Term of More Than 48 Months Many car loans have terms that enable people to pay for the full cost of the vehicles in about three years. However, there are also options that span across more time, such as 48 months. Some people caution against getting a loan for more than 48 months because you'll increase the risk of something potentially happening to the car before you can pay for the cost in full or even having to deal with interest rates that are too high. These tips should help you feel more equipped when it's time to buy your first car. What you're about to do is a major achievement, and it's one you can feel even better about when you know how to finance the purchase. Image by Raten-Kauf from Pixabay

Summer Festivals in Kingsport, TN

Three Must-See Tennessee Festivals This Summer

The summer is a great season to get out and enjoy one of Tennessee's many festivals. Keep reading to learn about three of them you shouldn't pass up. Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival Held since 2002 at  the 700-acre Great Stage Park in Manchester, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival features dozens of acts ranging from chart toppers to indie up and comers. Past guests have included Beatle Paul McCartney and Fitz and the Tantrums, a Neo Soul act known for high energy and great vocals. U2 and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are two of the headliners this year. Many vendors come and sell art like dreamcatchers or paintings, and you can also get art on your body in the form of temporary tattoos. This year, the festival takes place from June 8-11, and you can expect that music and other festivities will go from about noon each day until very early the next morning. Tickets for general admission start at $349.50 plus applicable fees. However, you can also splurge on a two-ticket Platinum package for $5,000 that includes access to premium stage viewing areas, food served in a special hospitality tent, and the chance to camp in a designated area with other people who have also paid for upscale tickets. Taste of Music City Festival Nashville is well-known for its country music scene and major record label offices, but music isn't the only thing Music City offers. The Taste of Music City Festival proves this, because it's the largest celebration of food and drink in Nashville. Occurring on June 17 in Public Square Park, the festival offers an all-inclusive ticket that lets attendees feast on gourmet food and sip on high-quality specialty beverages for the entire festival, which happens from 5-9 p.m. What better way to take care of dinner for that night? There is also an instructional element to the festival that allows people to watch as talented chefs whip up new and familiar cuisines. If you're seeking a little inspiration for the meals made in your own kitchen, be sure to check out some of the awesome demonstrations. General admission advance tickets are $59 plus applicable fees, but kids can go to the festival for $15 plus fees. Proceeds benefit St. Luke's Community House, a charity that helps low-income individuals in West Nashville. The Chattanooga Market's Red, White, and Blueberries Festival The Chattanooga Market has become an area favorite because it's a bustling place for people to buy produce and other locally sourced items. It's also known for having several festivals. One notable option is the Red, White, and Blueberries Festival, which happens this year on July 2 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have a big appetite, enter a blueberry pie eating contest. Otherwise, just enjoy browsing for the various items available for purchase that feature blueberries on the ingredients list. This free event happens at the First Tennessee Pavilion. Hopefully these three summer festivals get you excited for some of what Tennessee has to offer. While visiting them, you can enjoy good music and tasty food while potentially meeting new friends. Image via Pixabay

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2017 Toyota Highlander SUV

If you're considering the 2017 Toyota Highlander for your next car, you probably already know it's a mid-sized SUV packed with features that make driving more fun. Keep reading to learn some of the things that'll help you decide you're ready to buy this well-made vehicle. It Has a Bold Style You'll Love When you're on the road steering through heavy traffic, why not stand out for all the right reasons when you're behind the wheel of a stylish Toyota Highlander? The front section of the car got an upgrade for 2017, and now this SUV features a new front grille with a cool segmented look. It also has redesigned headlights that light up dark areas and look nice at the same time. When you own a Toyota Highlander, you'll appreciate the atention to detail that proves this car was carefully designed at every stage of the engineering process. Enjoy a Fuel-Efficient Engine Many drivers are understandably concerned about rising fuel costs and want to make sure they buy vehicles that sip gas instead of guzzle it. The 2017 Toyota Highlander certainly meets that purchasing priority because it features an available 3.5- liter, direct-inection V6 engine. Built to include Toyota's next-generation technologies, this innovative engine comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission that gives you ample control for every trip. It is also available as a hybrid. EPA estimates indicate the Highlander gets up to 27 MPG on the highway. There's also special technology that could help you get even more miles out of every trip to the gas station. Specifically, if you decide to get your Highlander with a V6 engine, it comes with a stop-and-start system that shuts off the engine when you are at a stop light or otherwise not moving. To start the engine again, just take your foot off the brake pedal. This fuel-saving option works seamlessly. Plenty of Creature Comforts Thanks to perks like reclining third-row seats, the 2017 Highlander seats up to eight people. If desired, you can get heated seats in the second row on some trim levels. If your family can't go more than an hour without using tech gadgets, don't worry. The Highlander has five USB ports divided between the front and rear so you never have to deal with dead batteries in smartphones, MP3 players, or tablets. You can also keep kids content with an available backseat Blu-Ray entertainment system. It has a nine-inch display screen, RCA jacks, and two wireless headphones. That means youngsters stay quiet and you stay more relaxed, even on lengthy trips. Numerous Integrated Safety Features There are several available safety-related technologies that help you enjoy hassle-free journeys. You can get your SUV with a lane departure alert feature that includes steering capabilities to help you stay in the right place on the road. It's even possible to purchase your Highlander with a collision mitigation system that detects pedestrians as well as other cars. Eight advanced air bags keep your family safe if crashes do happen. You've just learned about some notable reasons to buy a 2017 Toyota Highlander soon. Visit your dealership to learn more.

Four Beautiful Outdoor Parks Near Kingsport, Tennessee

Situated on the northeast tip of Tennessee and along the banks of the Holston River, Kingsport is an urban oasis in the middle of the beautiful outdoor wilderness. If you're an avid outdoorsman, it's also the perfect starting point for an excursion into nature. The next time you're looking to get some exercise and a breath of fresh air, make sure to check out a few of these parks in and around Kingsport. 1. Big Ridge State Park If you're willing to take the two-hour drive west of Kingsport, you're rewarded with the scenic landscapes of Big Ridge State Park. Located in the Appalachian Ridge and Valley, this 3,687-acre park is famous for its forests, fertile river valleys, and the majestic Big Ridge Lake. When you arrive, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied. Fifteen miles of hiking trails will give you more than enough exercise. If that's not your favorite activity, biking, swimming, boating, and the annual bluegrass festival should suffice. If you plan to stay overnight, make sure to check ahead for availability and any park fees. 2. Warriors' Path State Park For those who don't want to spend half a day driving, Warriors' Path State Park is the perfect destination. Nestled just 12 minutes from downtown Kingsport, this 950-acre park has loads of recreational activities to do throughout the year. The top things include boating, fishing, and hiking, but the real gem is the nationally-renowned bike trail. Designated as part of the National Recreational Trail, this moderate biking path is one of the most scenic in the state. For children, the Boundless Playground and Anderson Treehouse will keep them occupied for hours at a time. 3. Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium Just 20 minutes from Kingsport, another close destination is Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium. This beautiful, 3,550-acre nature reserve is the state's largest city-owned park, and home to tons of wildlife and foliage. The Adventures Rope Course is one of the more exciting parts of this park, featuring a 300-foot zipline that provides panoramic views of the area. If it's raining or you've already explored the area, hop into the planetarium for a jaw-dropping exhibit about the stars and planets of the galaxy. During the spring, the park also offers stargazing outings for free. No matter what you do, you're bound to have a great time at Bays Mountain. 4. Cloud Park If you only have a few hours or you just don't want to drive, Cloud Park is the perfect destination. At only 7 acres, it's easy to explore or enjoy a recreational activity. Park amenities include a fenced children's playground, concrete basketball courts, bicycle trails with a complimentary air pump, a skate park, and a picnic area. It's also nestled along the Holston River, providing brilliant views throughout the year. While it may not have the same ambiance as the other parks on this list, it's an urban park that's worth a look. Getting out into nature in Kingsport is an easy task with so many parks around. This weekend, pack up the car and family and hop into an experience you won't soon forget. Image by Valentin from Pixabay

A Crash Course on the History of the Toyota Camry

Spanning nearly 35 years and eight generations, the Camry is the flagship sedan of Toyota. From 2002 to 2015, the Camry was the top-selling car in the United States, adding to its legendary status. However, few people know the storied history of the vehicle that's become a staple of the American automotive landscape. If you're a Camry owner or you just want to learn more about one of the best sedans ever to grace the road, here's a crash course on the history of America's favorite car. The First Two Generations (1983-1991) While the Toyota Camry first came out in Japan in 1979, it didn't hit U.S. markets until 1983. That year, limited quantities of a sedan and hatchback arrived on the west coast. During this time, the Camry was a compact four-door, offering three engine options that were designed more for fuel economy than anything else. In 1987, the Camry entered its second generation, replacing the hatchback with a wagon and adding a V6 option to the mix. It was also the only Camry to offer all-wheel drive, and the option has yet to return to the lineup. Stepping Up the Size for the Third Generation (1992-1996) and Speed for the Fourth (1997-1998) In 1992, the Camry upped its size from a compact four-door to a mid-sized sedan. This upgrade brought the Camry into competition with many of the other players in the industry. A year later, Toyota provided a coupe that only lasted until 1996, and it only returned in 1999 as the Camry Solara. Engine options for the third generation featured a 2.2-liter four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter V6. The fourth generation didn't change the body style, but it did provide a V6 engine that propelled drivers from zero to 60 in just 7 seconds. The Solara (1999-2002) and the Fifth Generation (2002-2006) In 1999, Toyota brought back the coupe model, calling it the Toyota Solara. More sporty than earlier versions and offering a convertible, the Solara branched out to find drivers who wanted a more pure driving experience. With a sports-tuned 3.0-liter V6, it also became the first Camry to break a 7-second zero-to-60 time. The fifth generation didn't add much in the way of new engine specs, but it did provide some looks that would propel sales into the future. In 2002, the Camry also began its run as America's top-selling vehicle. The Award-Winning Seventh Generation (2007-2011) When the new Camry arrived in 2007, it was immediately given top marks. It became the first Camry to win the prestigious Motor Trend Car of the Year award. It could hit 60 mph in the low 6-second range, and it was also the first to offer a hybrid powertrain. The Eighth Generation (2011-2017) Today, the Camry remains in its eighth generation, and it's never looked better. Featuring an active safety suite, an upgraded hybrid version, and stunning looks, it finished its run as the top-selling vehicle in 2015, although it finished fourth in 2016. With such a storied history, the most intriguing thing about the Camry is where it will go next. The 2018 Camry is just that model. So strap on your seat belt and get ready for another exciting ride with the Toyota Camry.

Four Unusual Tennessee Must-See Roadside Attractions

Spanning 440 miles from east to west and 120 miles from north to south, Tennessee is a road trip fantasy world. Throughout the state, there are tons of things to see, ranging from the country music mecca of Nashville to the capitol building of Knoxville. However, there are many bizarre roadside attractions that are definitely worth a look. If you thrive on experiencing the strange or viewing the outlandish, make sure to add these roadside spots to your visit through the Volunteer State. 1. Titanic Replica If you ever wondered what a tacky yet interesting resort town nestled near the Great Smoky Mountains looks like, don't forget to head to Pigeon Forge. Located just 5 miles from the mountains, Pigeon Forge is a vacation destination for many locals in the area. While Dollywood, outlet malls, and amusement parks are the most popular attractions, don't skip out on the Titanic replica. Built to a half-scale of the original ship, the Titanic replica is a museum with over 400 artifacts from the doomed vessel. It's also built in a pool to simulate what the ride may have been like. Self-guided tours take two hours, but even if you don't go, it's well worth a drive-by. 2. Backyard Terrors and Dinosaur Park With a name like Backyard Terrors and Dinosaur Park, you know it's a must-visit destination. Located in Bluff City, this park showcases over 20 life-size recreations of dinosaurs that look real enough to take a bite out of your arm. The best part is there's no admission, although donations are strongly encouraged. Once you're done viewing the park, hang out in the picnic area for your last views of the bizarre dinosaur sculptures. 3. Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains If you're lucky enough to travel through Gatlinburg in June, you can't miss one of nature's most amazing spectacles. During this time, fireflies provide a light show that's unlike anything else in the world. Every six seconds, millions of fireflies illuminate in unison, blink six times, and then disappear. This happens throughout the evening, and to this day, the reason remains a mystery. For you, it's an excellent chance to experience nature and take amazing photos and videos. 4. The Bloodstained Crypt of Nina Craigmiles To add a bit of chill and the macabre to your trip, make sure to visit Cleveland, Tennessee. Here you'll find the final resting place of Nina Craigmiles, who was a 7-year-old girl unfortunately killed in a buggy accident in 1871. What makes this crypt so horrifying is that blood stains appear on the crypt without warning throughout the year, and no amount of scrubbing seems to clean them. To this day, experts, psychics, and paranormal workers have yet to figure out what causes the blood to flow. If you can figure it out, you'll forever etch your name into the history of this otherwise quaint town. There's a seemingly endless amount of weird attractions throughout Tennessee, but these are definitely worth the trip. Make sure to adjust your route to hit these places for an unforgettable road trip. Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay

Four Amazing Toyota Hybrids You Have to Test Drive

Since the debut of the Prius in 2000, Toyota has become the undisputed king of the hybrid market. However, they didn't stop there. Over nearly two decades, the Japanese automaker has developed several more hybrid models that offer awesome perks, style, and unbeatable fuel economy. If you're looking to step into the 21st century, save money at the pump, and lower your carbon footprint, make sure to check out a few of these amazing Toyota hybrids. 1. Prius c Eleven years after the release of the Prius, Toyota aimed to expand the nameplate by offering two new versions of the legendary hybrid. One of those is the Prius c. Standing for "city," the Prius c is the compact, urban-friendly version of the Prius that's the perfect size to fit into tight parking spots and navigate narrow city streets. To power this pint-sized beauty, Toyota equips it with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pairs with two AC motors. The resulting 99 horsepower isn't head-turning, but it still produces up to 48 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. 2. RAV4 Hybrid When it first hit showrooms in 2015, the RAV4 Hybrid was an instant sensation. Taking everything you love about the RAV4 and combining it with a hybrid powertrain without changing its exterior appearance was a winning mix. Perhaps the best aspect of the vehicle is that it comes with standard all-wheel drive, allowing it to navigate even the toughest terrain. Under the hood, the RAV4 Hybrid sports a 2.5-liter, inline four-cylinder engine that mates with two AC electric motors. Together, they provide an impressive 194 horsepower while also getting a remarkable 34 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. 3. Prius Prime If you're searching for a hybrid that doubles as an all-electric car, the Prius Prime is the ideal choice. It features a plug-in powertrain that allows you to charge your car in as little as two hours and 10 minutes. When fully charged, the Prime can take you up to 25 miles, which translates into an MPGe of 133. If you switch to the hybrid mode, you'll still get a phenomenal 54 mpg combined. In total, the Prius Prime has a total range of 640 miles, making it one the leaders in the industry. 4. Avalon Hybrid There aren't many vehicles that combine top-tier luxury with a hybrid engine, but the Avalon Hybrid delivers on both fronts. The interior has many of the features you want in an opulent vehicle including a one-touch power moonroof, leather seating, a touch-screen color display, and wireless smartphone charging. With so many sumptuous amenities, you won't even know that you're in a hybrid. However, you'll find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood that's good for 200 horsepower. Even with this power, you'll still get 40 mpg in the city and 39 mpg in the city. With so many excellent hybrid options, Toyota makes it easy to find the perfect one that fits with your schedule. Make sure to schedule a test drive today.

Spicy Food Restaurants in Kingsport, TN

Spice Up Your Life: 4 Kingsport Restaurants for Diners That Like it Hot

Whether you're a fan of spicy food or wanting to try something new, Kingsport, Tennessee, is home to a number of excellent restaurants. From Cajun and Creole to Thai and everything in between, there are several cuisines that serve up some mouth-watering spicy dishes. We've compiled a list of our four favorite restaurants that serve some of the best spicy food in the Kingsport area. So get ready to loosen that belt and read on to discover your next favorite restaurant. Restaurant #1: The Fried Alligator Featuring both American and Cajun cuisines, The Fried Alligator is a great place for either lunch or dinner. With a wide selection of options on the menu, the fried alligator, fried catfish, and shrimp are some of the more popular dishes. For those looking for a spicy dish, we recommend the etouffee. To top it off, the atmosphere is welcoming and festive, the wait staff are both friendly and prompt, and the BYOB option adds to the overall ambiance. If you're looking for a new and adventurous dining experience, look no farther than The Fried Alligator. Restaurant #2: La Campina Mexican Grill We all know that Mexican food is known for spicy dishes, but La Campina Mexican Grill takes it to the next level. Offering all of your favorite and traditional Mexican dishes, this restaurant combines that flavor and adds even more spices and seasoning. While you can't go wrong with anything from the menu, we do recommend the pollo picosas, which is not only delicious but spicy as well. Located in the downtown area with a friendly atmosphere and great service, La Campina Mexican Grill is known as one of the best Mexican restaurants in the area. Restaurant #3: Thai Noodle Town As one of the only Thai restaurants in the Kingsport and surrounding area, Thai Noodle Town is one of the go-to places for great spicy food that has outstanding flavor. While most dishes are on the conservative side of spice, you can ask the wait staff to kick it up a notch, and they will bring a selection of spices to enhance the flavor. Fan favorites include the drunken noodles dish and tom yum goong soup but, honestly, anything on the menu will leave your taste buds wanting more. Featuring a friendly, clean and fun atmosphere, Thai Noodle Town is a great place for food lovers. Restaurant #4: Sitar Indian Cuisine Serving up some of the most delicious Indian food in the area, Sitar Indian Cuisine features all of the traditional Indian dishes. Offering a range of non-spicy and spicy dishes, all items on the menu have the ability to "up" the spice factor. With the friendly wait staff, clean atmosphere, and welcoming ambiance, this restaurant is one of the best choices for those looking for a little food adventure. Ready to spice it up? Trying any one of the above restaurants and recommended dishes definitely won't disappoint. So tell us — what restaurant will you try first? Image via Pixabay

4 Questions You Need to Ask Before Buying a New Car

Are you in the market for a new car? You've come to the right place. We know that buying a car is not only a big financial decision but also a daunting, timely and emotional experience, which is why we're here to help. When searching for a new car, there are certain key questions that you should be asking your sales representative. What are they exactly? Read on to discover them! Question #1: What is the term of your loan and financing options? After you've taken a few cars for a test drive, we'll sit down with you and have an honest and open conversation about financing. Dealer financing can be a bit tricky, so it's a good idea to explore all financing options in detail, including specific terms of the deal and interest rates. Whether this conversation takes 30 minutes or three hours, our team will make sure that you feel confident about your choice before you sign anything. Question #2: Where's the closest service center? Not all dealers have attached service centers. In some situations, your dream car could even be six hours away. That's why it's important to ask your sales rep where the nearest service center is. If you have to drive all the way across town — or even a few towns over — twice a year for that regular car maintenance, it can quickly become a hassle. You'll want to factor that in before you fall in love with your dream car. Question #3: What is the total price of the car? Buying from dealerships often means that there will be associated fees and packaged, pre-fitted options already added on to cars. What is this advertising charge? What is this leather seal? What are you really paying for? You won't know until you ask about the mandatory fees. You should also ask about the total cost of your potential new vehicle. Combining the interest, commission, and sometimes hidden costs can raise the final cost of that car. Asking for an invoice and going through each line item one by one will help you to fully understand everything that's incorporated in that final price. Question #4: Do you love the car? While this question is one that you'll have to ask yourself, it's important to take the time to see if a potential new vehicle will fit your needs and lifestyle. Being an emotional decision, you'll want to make sure that your vehicle has all the space, power, and luxury features that you want and need to drive comfortably and safely. Before signing anything, make sure that the car truly makes you happy and that you're not making any unnecessary compromises. And there you have it, some of the most important questions that you need to ask when buying a new car. In need of more advice? Stop by our dealership today. Our friendly and expert sales staff will be happy to answer all of your questions.

Grits Spots in Kingsport, TN

Four Best Places for Grits in Kingsport, Tennessee

It's no secret that grits are a Southern staple. From shrimp and grits to cheesy grits to every recipe in between, there's no doubt that this dish is an integral part of the Southern diet. Where can you find some of the best grits in the area? You're in luck — we're here to give you the scoop on some of the best restaurants in Kingsport, Tennessee, that serve up this delicious comfort food. So get ready to have those taste buds start watering and read on to find your next favorite grit-serving restaurant. Restaurant #1: FATZ Cafe With great food, good service and amazing prices, FATZ Café definitely doesn't disappoint. Upon walking through the front doors, the friendly and smiling staff will greet you with true Southern hospitality. While you can't go wrong with any dish on the menu, we recommend trying the fried green tomatoes and grits. Putting their own twist on Southern favorites, this restaurant serves South Carolina's own stone-ground Adluh cheese grits with Cajun-spiced shrimp. Topped with Andouille sausage gravy, parmesan cheese, and scallions, this Lowcountry classic is truly remarkable. Restaurant #2: Puleo's Grille The warm, friendly vibe of Puleo's Grille is just one of the many reasons why we like this restaurant. It blends the traditional steak and seafood restaurant with Southern comfort and Italian offerings. The menu is jam-packed with a variety of options ranging from salads to fried green tomatoes to steak and everything in between, but we are in love with the grits. Both grit options are served with either chicken or shrimp, Italian sausage, peppers and onions over cheese grits, and tasso gravy. Puleo's Grille adds a unique twist to this classic Southern dish. Restaurant #3: Shoney's Cooking all of your fresh Southern favorites under one roof, Shoney's is a great choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Featuring Southern-styled grits, this restaurant serves most of its grit options with side country fried steak, pancakes, or eggs and bacon. It doesn't offer the traditional shrimp and grit choice. However, Shoney's grits are cooked to perfection along with all of their menu items. Coupled with the welcoming atmosphere and hardworking staff, this restaurant is a great place to satisfy all of your grit cravings. Restaurant #4: Two Dads Café N Catering Featuring all of the traditional fried Southern dishes, this place is known for its breakfast. Offering a wide range of breakfast sandwiches and dishes, Two Dads Café N Catering serves up some delicious grits. While only offered as a side dish (available in either a small or large bowl), this restaurant does allow you to pair the grits with any menu item listed. Our personal favorite option is the grits paired with one of their tasty made-to-order custom omelets. And there you have it, a list of our top recommendations for restaurants that serve the best grit recipes in Kingsport and the surrounding area. So tell us — what restaurant are you going to try next? image via Pixabay

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