The Scruffy Stuff

What do big University of Tennessee changes mean for the rest of Knoxville?

The proposed Neyland Entertainment District, shake-ups at WUTK and new public parking spaces. It's safe to say the University of Tennessee at Knoxville is at a turning point.  Staying on top of it all is higher education reporter Keenan Thomas, who joins host Ryan Wilusz on this week's episode to discuss the biggest changes the campus community should expect and how those changes impact the rest of Knoxville.  LINKS: How University of Tennessee students are scrambling to keep WUTK on air in 'hectic' times Parking passes on sale for University of Tennessee: How to buy amid major changes Inside look at Tennessee plans for Neyland district: Cost, restaurants, parking garage Important dates and costs University of Tennessee families must know before fall semester What's that big building going up between Publix and Sutherland Avenue next to Tyson Park?  University of Tennessee dining shakeups bring new restaurants to 'best value' campus "The Scruffy Stuff" is presented by knoxnews.com. Want more downtown analysis? Sign up for the free weekly Urban Knoxville newsletter by clicking here.

What are the best places to sing karaoke in Knoxville?

Whether you have the voice of an angel or require a little liquid courage before taking the stage, karaoke is always a fun option for a night out, and Knoxville has plenty of options.  Knox News reporter Allie Feinberg joins host Ryan Wilusz to discuss their recent visits to some of the most popular karaoke destinations in town. They talk about what makes each venue unique, what makes for a good karaoke song and what songs they consider their go-to choices.  "The Scruffy Stuff" is presented by knoxnews.com. Want more downtown analysis? Sign up for the free weekly Urban Knoxville newsletter by clicking here, and join the downtown discussion by becoming part of the Urban Knoxville group on Facebook.

Is McKay's in Knoxville (THAT McKay's) the Buc-ee's of used book stores?

The left turn into and out of the Knoxville McKay's used books and record store on Papermill Drive is a headache on a normal day. But when the store celebrated its 50th anniversary July 9 with an all-day, prize-filled road trip to five locations in Tennessee and North Carolina, traffic was exacerbated − and some got more than they bargained for. Growth and development reporter Daniel Dassow joins host Ryan Wilusz to discuss all things McKay's, from how people spent their $800 in store credit to why the Knoxville store is so popular to begin with. Plus, we share some of our favorite and most hilarious social media posts documenting the madness.  LINKS: >> What happened at McKay's bookstore? Inside the cross-state road trip for a hot bargain >> Our $800 McKay's shopping list: Obscure titles, a 'Peppa Pig' cap and one pricey dinosaur >> 'Woodstock of 2024': McKay's road trippers reminisce and cash in after a hot day in lines The Scruffy Stuff" is presented by knoxnews.com. Want more downtown analysis? Sign up for the free weekly Urban Knoxville newsletter by clicking here, and join the downtown discussion by becoming part of the Urban Knoxville group on Facebook.

How did Knox News capture the College World Series behind the scenes?

The world was watching June 24 as Tennessee defeated Texas A&M to capture its first national title in the baseball program's history. Behind the scenes and on the field, Knox News was tirelessly working to capture the biggest moments during the Vols' quest for gold.  Brianna Paciorka, visual journalist at Knox News and producer of "The Scruffy Stuff," was in the middle of the action throughout the championship weekend. Her job: photograph history. The tireless work paid off with incredible shots that illustrate the excitement and emotions surrounding the Tennessee win.  Paciorka joins host Ryan Wilusz to discuss how she approached this historical assignment, what was going through her head as the final game was winding down and why seeing the confetti fall was also a career highlight for her.  Links: >> Tennessee baseball wins College World Series 2024: Our best photos from Omaha >> Champs! Tennessee baseball wins first national title, topping Texas A&M in 2024 CWS final >> Knoxville celebrates Tennessee baseball, Tony Vitello with parade, celebration >> You asked, we reprinted! Get our in-demand front page and special Tennessee celebration photo >> Celebrate Tennessee baseball's national championship with Knox News poster, extra edition >> Celebrate Tennessee baseball's epic CWS national championship with our special new book "The Scruffy Stuff" is presented by knoxnews.com. Want more downtown analysis? Sign up for the free weekly Urban Knoxville newsletter by clicking here, and join the downtown discussion by becoming part of the Urban Knoxville group on Facebook.

Scruffy Rewind: What's on your downtown Knoxville summer bucket list?

FROM MAY 14, 2024: There's nothing quite like springtime in Knoxville ... except for summertime. OK, fall and winter are awesome too.  Knoxville has plenty to offer any time of year, from mouth-watering bars and restaurants to family-friendly festivals to natural amenities like the Urban Wilderness.  But with summer quickly approaching, hosts Ryan Wilusz and Brianna Paciorka share their bucket list of things they hope to accomplish before football season picks up – things like finding their go-to place, enjoying the river and trying ice cream from a classic Knoxville fixture (no, it's not Cruze Farm).   What activities are on your bucket list? >> Link: 23 things you have to do in Scruffy City "The Scruffy Stuff" is presented by knoxnews.com. Want more downtown analysis? Sign up for the free weekly Urban Knoxville newsletter by clicking here, and join the downtown discussion by becoming part of the Urban Knoxville group on Facebook.