Today is the last day for the 2012 Home Builders Show. The show is produced by the Sevier County Home Builders and is located at the Sevierville Event Center on Winfield Dunn Parkway. There are businesses present from a unique motorized patio roof to information from the State of Tennessee Fire Prevention department and everything in between. With today's weather come out a have a learning experience before the Super Bowl Game.

Visitors to the home show stop to learn about Patio Concepts of Tennessee's unique motorized patio roof. It allows for sunshine or shade with the push of a button.

Learn how to be fire safe when burning outdoors at the Home Builders show.

Dwayne Cable of Frame of Mind Inc. was one of several vendors at the Smoky Mountain Home Show Saturday.

   Despite the economic downturn in 2008, Dwayne Cable of Frame of Mind, Inc., has been busy. Cable has been in home construction most of his life starting to work for builders at the age of 12. From 1997-2003, Dewayne Cable Builders built custom homes at a rapid rate quickly establishing himself as as one of the most successful builders in Sevier County. In 2003, Cable incorporated and became Frame of Mind, Inc. One year later he entered into the excavation phase of construction and his business has been growing ever since.

  Cable's homes are a model of elegance and quality design. As a testiment to his commitment to quality, Cable has won prestigious awards for his homes. In 2005,  Frame of Mind won the Overall Best Curb Appeal award in the Sevier County Home Builders Association Parade of Homes. The award winning home was a 3,500 square foot French country home which won second place for the People's Choice Award that same year. The home was featured in the Anderson Windows Builders Highlights web Site for outstanding design and execution.

  Frame of Mind recently had one of its speculative homes chosen to become a test home for several new innovative products by Dupont/Tyvek. After reviewing many homes across the nation and carefully examining the quality of the construction, it was Cable's reputation and commitment to quality and integrity that won him the honor.   

  For more information visit Frame of Mind's web Site at frameofmind@charter.net.

Advanced Maintenence was one of many businesses that networked at the Smoky Mountain Home Friday.

   The Smoky Mountain Home Show kicked off Friday with more than 30 vendors meeting with potential clients and networking with one another.

   "I have been here just a little while and I have already picked up some prospects," Jim Brinkley of Advanced Maintenence said. "These shows are always worth the effort. I always get work from these shows."

  For home owners looking for repairs or renovations, the show provided a great opportunity to meet with contractors for nearly every project. For contractors and business owners, the show is an opportunity to meet prospective clients and an opportunity to network.

  Vendors representing nearly every phase of home repairs were available to meet with attendees. The show continues through Sunday. 

Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel announced Lumpy Lambert, current Vice President of Casino Operations, will transition into the role of Assistant General Manager of Casino Operations.

 "With our expansion almost complete, the long-term experience and proven track record Lambert brings will help us complete our transition to a resort destination," said incumbent General Manager and Senior Vice President, Brooks Robinson.

 Lambert will have direct oversight of Casino Operations, Table Game Operations, Casino Beverage, Security, Valet, Total Rewards and Casino Marketing. He will lead efforts to finalize the transition of Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel to resort level status and lead the development and implementation of service initiatives designed to exceed guest expectations. 

 Lambert joined Harrah's Cherokee & Hotel in 1997 and began his career as a Casino Operations Supervisor. He has since held the positions of Casino Games Manager, Casino Manager and Director of Casino Marketing. In 2002, he became Vice President of Operations, directly responsible for all Gaming departments. Lambert was also a critical member of the team who defined the property's master plan expansion project.

 Lambert is a graduate of Mars Hill College. Prior to joining the Harrah's Cherokee Hotel & Casino team, he spent ten years with the Cherokee Central School system. Lambert is also an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians

   International design firm Cuningham Group Architecture, P.A. (Cuningham Group) accepted two HOSPY Awards for "Best Lobby" and "Best Suites" at the 8th Annual HOSPY Awards ceremony held Saturday, November 5^th in the Latour Ballroom at Wynn Las Vegas. Both awards are for the new upscale Creek Hotel Tower at Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel for which Cuningham Group provided architecture and interior design services.

   The awards ceremony is part of NEWH Las Vegas' annual fundraising event. NEWH is the premier networking resource for the hospitality industry, providing scholarships, education, leadership development, recognition of excellence, and business development opportunities. The NEWH Las Vegas HOSPY Awards program has gained national recognition as one of the most sought after, annual fundraising events in the hospitality industry-every year the best in hospitality design projects receive prestigious HOSPY awards.

    "We are thrilled that the Cuningham Group received two HOSPY Awards for the architecture and design of our new Creek Tower. The award winning design has already delighted our guests capturing the unique modern lodge concept. Additionally, this project has been instrumental in helping to position Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel as the premier gaming destination in the Southeast and a first-rate entertainment and tourism destination," says Leeann Bridges, VP of Marketing at Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel.  

    The 21-story, 420,000-Square-Foot Creek Tower includes 454 standard guestrooms and 78 suites. The natural surroundings inspired the dynamic design and selection of motifs and materials.

    The Lobby: Upon arrival at the Creek Tower guests are met with a distinctive representation of a "Modern Lodge." A combination of kinetic imagery of the region, sculptural relief, and architectural elements that include native river cane, grasses, rugged stonework, and rich woodwork, help to bring nature indoors in a refined fashion. The Level One Check-in Desk abstractly references local surroundings. The sleek VIP Reception is a refined "jewel" set within the Lobby and dedicated to serving elite guests. The ceiling elements and columns are symbolic of the surrounding tree trunks and canopy with dappled light and shadows filtering through. Strengthening the "Modern Lodge" concept, a cozy fire lounge is nestled in the heart of the Lobby. Building on the elements of fire, the Lobby Café features a sculptural light fixture reminiscent of fire and smoke that billows up to the Level Two Check-in. Floor to ceiling windows provide dramatic views of the spectacular Smoky Mountains terrain.

     The Suites: Topping off the standard guestroom floors is an all-suites level offering breathtaking views, unique multi-bay suites, and two luxurious Super Suites. The two exclusive Super Suites cap the floor's north and south ends and provide dramatic views of the mountain panorama. The North Suite reinforces the "Modern Lodge" concept with earthy textures, natural materials, and simple clean lines. Designed in contrast, the South Suite "Soho Chic" offers a sleek and edgy design while still utilizing lodge elements such as a feature fireplace and wood floors. The multi-bay suites offer several distinctive themes including "crisp hydration," "traditional lodge," "ski lodge," and "vibrant bloom". Themes play out through material and color palette, design details in headboards, lighting, and complementary artwork and accessories.

     Movie buffs in Sevier County can enjoy a full 3D movie experience without leaving their living rooms, or their couch. Beginning November 8, Charter 3D On Demand will offer High Definition customers who have 3DTVs access to a select array of 3D movies On Demand.

    3DTV is the latest addition to Charter’s On Demand service, which has been available to customers for several years. Charter On Demand provides thousands of movies and shows with many in HD, and now with movies in 3D, there is always a wide variety of programs available instantly.

    “As winter approaches, people find themselves indoors a bit more and inclined to stay at home for their entertainment,” said Aimee Pfannenstiel, Vice President and General Manager of Charter’s operations in Tennessee. “Our On Demand service has become very popular year-round, providing in-home entertainment that’s convenient and inexpensive. Access to Charter On Demand is available at no additional charge for Charter TV in Digital customers, and now with the availability of ordering movies in 3D, our On Demand service provides even more value to our customers.” In order to view 3D movies On Demand, customers will need to have a 3DTV connected to a Charter Motorola HD receiver, as well as the pair of 3D glasses that came with their TV.

    A May 2011 report by Scottsdale, Arizona-based In-Stat in Home Media Magazine, said it expects that all TVs with screen sizes larger than 40 inches will be 3D compatible going forward. The research firm said 3DTV units will top 300 million by 2015. “Because interest and demand for 3DTV has grown, Charter is providing 3D programming that is of value to our customers,” Pfannenstiel added. “The addition of movies in 3D is another enhancement to their TV experience.”

   Customers who have 3D TVs in their home should use the 3D glasses and remote control that are compatible with their 3DTV in order to view Charter On Demand movies in 3D. 

     Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel announced today the opening of the Chefs Stage Buffet. The new culinary option will provide guests a sampling of unique tastes and flavors reflecting the creative expertise of seasoned chefs. The seven market-inspired stations -- Soup & Salad, Mexican, Southern Comfort Food, BBQ, Asian, Italian, and luscious Desserts of the World, will reflect seasonal changes and fresh ingredients, providing guests a feast of abundant selections. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to be front and center with the chefs as they prepare cuisine that exemplifies the spirit, excitement and hospitality of Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel. 

   "Over the past three years a tremendous amount of research and due diligence went into assessing our opportunity to offer something spectacular for our resort patrons interested in experiencing this unique self-serve choice in our comprehensive food portfolio. We expect food connoisseurs and value diners alike to find more options, service applications and varieties of food then they have ever experienced anywhere, and walk away satisfied that they gained something truly unique," said Darold Londo, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the property.

    From the moment you enter into the inviting surroundings of the 600-seat restaurant, the Chefs Stage experience begins. Earth-toned covered walls, dramatic lighting and warm tans of leather seats are a gentle complement to the elegant sculptures and wood trim, punctuated by floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing sweeping mountain views.

     The Chefs Stage Buffet is a family-friendly restaurant located on the second floor adjacent to the sky bridge leading to the hotel and will be open from 4:30 pm to 10:00 pm, Monday through Sunday, and until 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. A Saturday and Sunday brunch will be served from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm. Prices for the buffet are $23.50 for dinner and $17.50 for brunch.  Children six through 12 are half price and children five and under are free.

     Nantahala Outdoor Center Gatlinburg, Eastern Tennessee’s  definitive resource for outdoor trip planning, has been certified LEED Silver by the U.S. Green Building Council, the leading and most comprehensive third-party designation for green building.

    NOC Gatlinburg, located adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the first LEED retail and family attraction of its kind in the entire two-state Smokies gateway region.  NOC opened its retail and adventure center in the spring of 2010, in Gatlinburg, Tenn., one of the most heavily visited destinations in the Southeast. A $4 million project, NOC Gatlinburg is a groundbreaking initiative, working with the City of Gatlinburg to create a closer connection to the National Park while deepening environmentally responsible practices throughout the city. 

    NOC Gatlinburg provides whitewater rafting and other guided trips; in-store activities like a 30 foot climbing wall and swinging rope bridge; as well as a comprehensive selection of outdoor gear, apparel and footwear for outdoor enthusiasts and casual users. 

    “We provide value for children and adults alike, from our in-store play areas for kids, to our high adventure rafting trips, to our comfortable and technical gear and apparel for all ages,” says General Manager Adam Metzger. “Our goal is to share ways for people to play outside, while teaching them that taking care of the great outdoors is the first step. The measures taken for LEED certification are vital for this purpose.” 

   When store construction began in 2009 NOC took over an existing building, previously the Open Hearth Restaurant, in order to preserve a community cornerstone while initiating green measures in the process of expanding the business. Steps toward achieving LEED certification involved extensive measures in construction and renovation including:

    Using an existing building and repurposing existing structural materials to reduce waste.Repurposing of materials salvaged from other area buildings, saving thousands of pounds of materials from local junkyards.Locally-sourcing any new materials needed, reducing the transportation impact of fuel and air emissions.

    Reducing water use by 30% with the exclusive use of low-flow toilets and sinks.Installing water efficient, low-erosion landscaping to protect the community and National Park boundaries.Exclusive use of low-VOC paints, sealants, coatings and floor systems.

    Drastically cutting electricity use by maximizing natural lighting.Creating an official stop along the city’s public transit line in the front of the store.Supporting alternative commuting efforts with the installation of secure storage, changing rooms and showers for staff biking, hiking or running to work

   .Installing 70% of building equipment and appliances that are Energy Star approved.Supporting the generation of renewable energy by offsetting 568,449 lbs of CO2 with the purchase of 518,568 kWh of renewable energy credits.

 “NOC’s mission of “excellence in outdoor adventures” is only possible if we not only promote recreation in the outdoors, but preserve and protect the outdoors as well,” says Bacon. “By committing ourselves to a green culture, including LEED building measures, we strive to promote environmental responsibility so we can continue to share the joys and benefits of outdoor recreation with many future generations.” 

    NOC will host a LEED Presentation Ceremony for the public and area partners to celebrate the LEED Silver designation. Refreshments will be provided