Phyllis and Jim Nichols try on props to have their picture made in the photo booth.
I apologize for being such a poor blogger the past few weeks. Work has been just crazy busy. Besides, I still get a bunch of hits just by leaving the photo of Allison Burchett in that dress on the blog’s first page! Ha!
But Christmas season has been rushing by like the water out of a fire hose. I wanted to post a few photos of some of the fun events before New Year’s arrives and “the most wonderful season of all” is just a dim memory.
The Knoxville Convention Center, a great Moxley Carmichael client, hosts a Christmas reception with a marketing purpose every year. It is an opportunity to showcase not only the fabulous facility, but the impressive skills of the culinary staff headed by talented executive chef, Chris Moore. Whereas some fancy holiday parties may shine with opulent luxuries like caviar and lobster, the Convention Center took a different approach. The food served at this event featured more modest ingredients — but they were treated in unique ways to make them stars. I think you will see that from some of the photos that follow.
General Manager Mary Bogert and company also used decorations already on hand to bring the season to the Convention Center. And they added an old-fashioned touch: a photo booth complete with funny and festive props to pose with.
I walked into the building with Marshall Stair, who had just been elected to City Council but had not yet been sworn in. “What’s the agenda for this event?” he asked me. “No agenda,” I told him. “It’s just a chance for you to see what the Convention Center can do.” He seemed relieved. “I’m getting a lot more invitations these days,” he said. “And I never know what to expect.” I smiled. He has no idea what he’s in for!
From left, Elizabeth Thomas, County Commissioner Mike Brown, Nick Cazana and Carlton Long.
This is becoming a signature Convention Center dish: a risotto bar. Guests choose what ingredients they want in their risotto and a chef whips it up on the spot. Delicious.
From left, Tank Strickland, Tammy and Ken Knight, and Mary Bogert
Patrick Birmingham, left, News Sentinel publisher, and Marshall Stair.
Isn't this a good idea? Chef Jim Hart fries some brie -- and then guests add the toppings of their choice. Yum.
This dancing reindeer was part of the festive decor.
Acting Mayor Dan Brown posed with Mayor-elect Madeline Rogero in front of the wood-burning fireplace in the Convention Center's cute little rotunda.
Ha ha. Here's how city officials enjoy a party! That's the mayor-elect (at the time) with Police Chief David Rausch comparing calendars.
From left, Bill Lyons of the city of Knoxville, City Councilman-elect Finbarr Saunders and Larry Martin of the city of Knoxville.
From left, Angie Clabo of the News Sentinel, Gavin Baker of Moxley Carmichael and Sandi Swilley of Leadership Knoxville.
Alan Carmichael, left, and Jim Nichols
David Butler of the Knoxville Museum of Art and Mary Bogert REALLY like this sculpture by Richard Jolley!
Knox County Commissioner Dave Wright with his wife, Pat
Gary Heatherly and Gay Lyons
Folks dove right into the wide variety of interesting cheese choices.
City Councilman Marilyn Roddy and her husband, Patrick
Dale and Jill Thompson
The warm gingerbread pudding smelled wonderful.
Police Chief David Rausch, Bill Lyons in center, and City Councilman Duane Grieve
Gay Lyons and Terry Turner
Sandi Swilley poses with Kim Beets, left, and Leanna Belew, right, both of the Convention Center.
Phyllis Nichols, left, and Madeline Rogero
Craig Liston, left, and Alan Carmichael. Liston was the manager of the Knoxville Convention Center until he was promoted by SMG, the company that manages the facility. He now is regional general manager of the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Hmmmmm…, I think the KNS publisher should bring a food writer with him next year.
Gosh, Cynthia I wondered where you had been.
Dee Dee: I agree! Alan: very funny!
The convention center sure knows how to throw a party.
I have missed the Blue Streak, but I hear she has been “extremely” busy.
Yes. Extremely!
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