Lauren Makk wears AllSaints on the cover of 360 MAGAZINE. Cover photography by Vaughn Lowery. HGTV host + DIY expert Lauren Makk shoots cover of 360 MAGAZINE at AllSaints NYC flagship on Fifth Avenue. Now available on Amazon.com + BN.com (photos: Vaughn Lowery).
You don’t often hear the words ‘DIY’ and ‘Luxury’ in the same sentence, but that’s because we didn’t know…until now. DIY expert, interior designer, and TV host in Nashville, Tennessee, she has caught the attention of fans with her budget-friendly approach to luxury DIY and design.
Lauren may be familiar to you from her appearances on various design shows such as Trading Spaces and ABC’s FABLife, but today she’s reintroducing herself and taking on the world of design with a unique perspective.
Across her digital and social media platforms, Lauren reveals her best thrifty design tips and tricks, as well as her luxury DIY and redesign projects. Click HERE to see some of her work.
Lauren Mark’s goal is to change the stereotype of DIY in the past, which is why she insists on being an “Interior RE-Designer,” focusing on re-using common everyday materials in new, impressive, and sophisticated ways. ”I love being in the design game with depth and texture,” she says.
Her sincerity and dedication to making design affordable have earned her the title of “Home Girl Next Door,” where you can find a lot of great finds for decorating your home or anywhere else. She shared: “I want my space to really reflect who I am or who my client is.” Click HERE to view some of her creations, such as ”Spring Inspired Floral Arrangement”.
”It all started with my great passion for graffiti,” Lauren confesses. Her plan from a young age has been to become an artist through a passion for design, which was fostered at a young age by her mother, who helped her gain those domestic skills that Lauren has mastered today through her deep African American roots from the South. She gathers her inspiration from being generations of housekeepers in her family. ”My mother really instilled in me a passion for creating that feeling of HOME,” she says.
Lauren Makk, a native of Oklahoma City, grew up in the home improvement industry. ”I have learned in the last two years, how important our home is. It’s our safe space,” she assures. ”I don’t care if you’ve been on vacation for two weeks or two years in jail. Everyone wants to go home because that’s where people feel safe,” she adds. Lauren and her mom enjoyed flipping houses as a hustle.
With her years of experience in construction, she has wanted to combine her three innate talents for DIY, design, and art to create her renowned firm Lauren Makk Interiors, which specializes in “Accessible luxury.”
Makk is now building on her brand and influence to take DIY and design to a whole new level. In fact, she currently judging the talent of young builders on Shop Class for Disney+ andDesign Star: Next Gen on HGTV, among other shows.
Makk’s distinct perspective and experience have set it apart from others in the industry. ”I honestly feel like design is what my purpose here on Earth,” she says.
Congrats Lauren on your 1.5-year mark of sobriety. We’re always here for you.
For updates on future DIY projects, programs, tips, or tricks feel free to follow her on her digital platforms
Lauren Makk was captured at AllSaints flagship in Manhattan by Vaughn Lowery for 360 MAGAZINE. HGTV Host and DIY expert Lauren Makk in Esther Perbandt kimono shot by Vaughn Lowery via 360 MAGAZINE. Lauren Makk wears Esther Perbandt kimono for 360 Magazine shot by Vaughn Lowery.
Seven Attractions That Tell The Story Of Native Americans In Tennessee
You don’t have to look far to see the lasting legacy of Native Americans in Tennessee — in fact, the name “Tennessee” is derived from “Tanasi,” a Cherokee village in what is now Monroe County. Today, the state is home to more than 20,000 Native Americans and a rich culture and history waiting to be experienced by travelers. Below, check out seven attractions that tell the story of Tennessee’s Native American heritage.
Travel Tip: The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail runs east to west across Tennessee, carving a tragic story of the removal of Cherokee Indians from their ancestral homelands.
Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park covers more than 1,200 acres and contains at least 15 Native American mounds, which were both burial and ceremonial in purpose. The park’s archaeological features and wildlife can be viewed along six miles of interconnecting trails, including paved trails, which are wheelchair/bicycle accessible. The park’s Pinson Mounds museum offers further insight into these fascinating structures; it is designed to replicate a Native American mound, offering 4,500 square feet of exhibit space, an archaeological library, an 80-seat theater and a “Discovery Room”’ for historical exploration.
Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area (only accessible to the public through hikes led by Harpeth River State Park rangers)
Head to the seven-acre Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area in Kingston Springs (just west of Nashville), where you’ll find the largest number of Native American ceremonial mounds in Tennessee — more than a dozen. Researchers believe the area was occupied between approximately 1000 and 1300 AD and was an important civic and ceremonial center connected to the Mississippian site of Cahokia, which was located across the river in what is now St. Louis. The Mound Bottom site is only accessible to the public through hikes led by Harpeth River State Park rangers — check the park’s events calendar for upcoming experiences.
Audubon Acres
Chattanooga’s oldest wildlife sanctuary, Audubon Acres, offers more than five miles of hiking trails over 130 acres on South Chickamauga Creek, along with abundant opportunities for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and photography. It’s also a spot steeped in Native American history. The visitor center houses an archeological museum showcasing one of the largest publicly viewable Native artifact collections in Chattanooga, while the Spring Frog Cabin, a Trail of Tears site, is a wonderfully preserved example of Cherokee architecture from the mid-1700s. Going back even further, Little Owl Village at Audubon Acres is believed to be the site of a 16th century Napochie village that the Spanish Tristan DeLuna expedition encountered during their travels north from Florida.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
As the first great gateway to the American west, Cumberland National Historic Park is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in Tennessee’s Native American history. Located an hour north of Knoxville where the borders of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia converge, the 24,000-acre park features miles of game trails that were originally used by Native Americans, allowing visitors to literally walk in the footsteps of the original stewards of the land. Later, those same trails became the footpaths for more than 300,000 settlers heading west over the Appalachian Mountains.
The Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
With the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation at the helm, the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum is Tennessee’s only tribally operated historical attraction. The East Tennessee museum telling the amazing story of Sequoyah, creator of the Cherokee writing system. Never before, or since, in the history of the world has one man, not literate in any language, perfected a system for reading and writing a language until Sequoyah. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains on the shores of beautiful Tellico Lake, the museum recently added the Max D. Ramsey Shoreline Trail, with 1.5 miles of walking trail, along the shoreline, bridges and boardwalks through the marshy areas.
Red Clay State Historic Park
The tragic Trail of Tears begins at Red Clay State Historic Park. Encompassing 263-acres of narrow valleys formerly used as cotton and pastureland, the park site was the last seat of Cherokee national government before the Indian Removal Act, which resulted in most of the Cherokee people in the area being forced to emigrate west in the 1830s. It was here that the Cherokee learned that they had lost their mountains, streams and valleys forever. On the 263-acre property, you’ll find hiking trails, reconstructed sleeping huts, homesteads, council houses, the Blue Hole Spring, which served as a water supply during council meetings and the Eternal Flame, a memorial for the Cherokee people and those who were lost on the Trail of Tears.
Cherokee Removal Memorial Park and Museum
Cherokee Indian Removal Memorial, located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Birchwood, was one of the main staging areas for the Trail of Tears. Thousands of Cherokee Indians camped here before their infamous trip to the west. Lying near the center of the ancestral land of the Cherokee Nation, this area had nine encampments of thousands of Cherokees that waited weeks to be sent across the river here at Blythe Ferry. Today, a History Wall feature offers visitors a detailed visual re-telling of not only the Trail of Tears, but also the centuries-long saga of the literate and highly civilized Cherokee culture in Tennessee. A Memorial Wall, meanwhile, pays tribute to the people who died during the Trail of Tears — a necessary reminder of this tragic episode in our nation’s history.
Tennessee is the home of the blues, bluegrass, country, gospel, soul, rockabilly, and rock ‘n’ roll— delivering an unparalleled experience of beauty, history, and family adventure, infused with music that creates a vacation that is the “Soundtrack of America. Made in Tennessee.” Explore more at TNvacation.com and join other Tennessee travelers by following “TNVacation” on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube, and “Tennessee” on Snapchat.
During a tour of Music City, 360 MAGAZINE had an exclusive meeting with the only Toyota sedan to offer the HYBRID MAX System – the all-new Crown AKA new age Kanmuri. As well as maneuvering different terrains in Tennessee, this distinctive crossover caught the attention of spectators.
Over the past seventy years, the Toyota Crown has been recognized in Japan as one of the prestigious vehicles in its class. Now, it is being reintroduced to the US market after a 50-year hiatus, becoming the new flagship of the invincible mid-tier automotive brand. Equipped with standard AWD in tandem with intuitive technology like a Drive Connect, which can be established by a simple voice command, “Hey Toyota,” making searches for points of interest effortless.
Its bi-tonal exterior easily dresses up any Met Gala rug. And, with 21-inch wheels, the steep position offers an additional height of 4 inches above its predecessors, the Camry and Avalon. Thus, increasing the driver’s visual range as well as their overall driving control. The performance hybrid version pushes approximately 340 horsepower, with 400 lb-ft of torque, enough strength that no driver or passenger can ignore. Available in three categories: XLE (starting at $41,045), Limited (starting at $46,595) and Platinum (starting at $53,445) with dual hybrid powertrains – Toyota Hybrid System (THS) and Hybrid Max that is exclusive to Platinum models.
Nashville 2023 Toyota Crown sedan drive with 360 MAGAZINE.
‘Again, Toyota has set the record straight. With thick thighs and an arched back, it’s recalls the X6, dubbing this vehicle in an urban territory as the Bargain Beamer.’ – Vaughn Lowery
Toyota Crown Returns to the US with Bold Style and New Hybrid Max Powertrain
Reimagined Sedan with Bold Styling, Premium Comfort and Elevated Ride Height
Three Grades, XLE, Limited and Platinum, All with Standard Electronic On-Demand AWD
Hybrid Powertrain Standard with Choice of First-Ever HYBRID MAX or Toyota Hybrid System
HYBRID MAX on Platinum Pairs a 2.4-L Turbo Hybrid Engine with Rear eAxle for 340 HP
Spacious Interior and Quiet Ride, with Standard Adaptive Variable Suspension on Platinum
Platinum Grade Offers Unique Bi-Tone Paint and Standard 21-inch Wheels
Toyota’s All-New Audio Multimedia System with 12.3-inch Touchscreen Standard
With a striking debut, Toyota is reimagining the full-size sedan with the all-new 2023 Toyota Crown. Built to deliver an intuitive driving experience, this new premium sedan brings powerful acceleration and confident handling, along with supreme comfort for a sophisticated ride, all wrapped in a bold new design. It is also the first Toyota sedan to offer the HYBRID MAX System, Toyota’s performance hybrid with power that drivers will feel. Available in three grades: XLE, Limited and Platinum, Toyota Crown will offer a choice of two different hybrid powertrains: HYBRID MAX or the fourth generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS).
The HYBRID MAX powertrain, exclusive to the Platinum grade, is Toyota’s all-new performance hybrid that puts out a manufacturer estimated 340 net horsepower. Paired with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and a direct shift 6-speed automatic transmission, HYBRID MAX produces powerful torque at low RPM for sporty, exhilarating driving and has a manufacturer-estimated 28 MPG combined city/highway fuel economy rating. XLE and Limited grades are equipped with THS, a highly efficient hybrid system with a newly developed, high-output bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery that can achieve a manufacturer-estimated 38 MPG combined city/highway rating.
Built on a newly developed chassis based on Toyota’s GA-K platform, Crown has a raised overall height that’s nearly four inches higher than Camry. The unique height of this sedan offers increased road visibility, along with easy entry and exit. Its flowing silhouette and sculpted body lines create a fresh look that is entirely unique for its class. Altogether, the Crown package is a combination of innovative style, performance and function.
The XLE grade comes equipped with the 2.5-liter THS, AWD, three selectable drive modes, 19- inch alloy wheels, heated and powered Softex and fabric front seats and our all-new Toyota Multimedia System with 12.3-inch touchscreen and 6 speakers. It is available in five colors: Black, Oxygen White, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Heavy Metal and Supersonic Red, with a black interior.
The Limited grade also comes equipped with XLE features and adds multibeam LED headlights, a fixed panoramic roof, leather-trimmed seats that are heated and ventilated up front and heated in the rear, 11-speaker JBL audio system, rain sensing windshield wipers and intelligent clearance sonar along with rear cross-traffic braking. There is also an available Advanced Technology package that adds dark metallic 21-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, a birds-eye view camera and digital key (with Remote Connect subscription). Interior colors include black, black and chestnut and macadamia.
The Platinum grade includes everything on XLE and Limited and raises the bar with the HYBRID MAX powertrain, Adaptive Variable Suspension, six selectable drive modes, Advanced Park and unique 21-inch machined 10-spoke alloy wheels with black accents. The color palette adds a Toyota first bi-tone paint option, with black paint that extends from the hood to the trunk, that can be paired with Oxygen White, Heavy Metal, Supersonic Red or an all new, bi-tone only Bronze Age color.
Each grade of Crown will come with Toyota’s new Audio Multimedia System and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard. It is expected to arrive in Toyota dealerships later this year.
Crown History
The Crown first debuted in 1955 as the “Toyopet Crown,” Toyota’s first mass produced passenger vehicle. When the first generation was developed, Crown came to symbolize “innovation” and “pushing the limit” within Toyota. Since then, it has gained recognition in Japan as Toyota’s premium sedan. It was also the first Japanese car to hit American shores back in 1958, last being sold in the US in 1972.
Across the 15 generations of Crown, it has been a vehicle that has led the way with innovative technology — pursuing value through engineering that is one step ahead of its time. For the new Crown, Toyota’s development team once again set innovation and pushing the limit at the core of the new generation’s concept. Toyota team members from product planning, design and engineering worked together to identify a Crown for a new era. The result is a completely new Toyota Crown that throws off the conventional concepts of a sedan and takes it into a new era.
Design choices push the limit, with large-diameter wheels that give the car a powerful style, a raised hip point for ease of ingress and egress, and meticulous attention to detail on the inside for a comfortable home-away-from-home. Innovation is engineered into the new Crown with two different Hybrid powertrains available, HYBRID MAX with responsive acceleration and THS for great fuel economy and standard electronic on demand All Wheel Drive.
Two Hybrid Systems
Toyota made “hybrid” synonymous with fuel efficiency more than 20 years ago with the first Prius. Today, Toyota continues to expand its hybrid lineup and overall electrified vehicle offerings, with Crown bringing the number of Toyota electrified vehicles to 16. The Toyota Crown innovates on the hybrid front with another first for Toyota sedans, the HYBRID MAX System. This new system is designed to deliver smooth and powerful torque-filled acceleration, while keeping an eye on efficiency.
HYBRID MAX combines a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine tuned to hit peak torque between 2000-3000 RPM, with a front electric motor that helps maximize torque production. A rear wheel eAxle that’s equipped with a high output water-cooled electric motor is combined with the hybrid engine to directly transmit force to all four wheels, ensuring a thrilling throttle response and linear acceleration throughout the power band.
The fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System in the Toyota Crown combines a high-efficiency 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with two electric motors in a highly compact system. The gas engine employs Variable Valve Timing-intelligent by Electric motor (VVT-iE) on the intake camshaft, and VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft. The variable range for the valve timings of both the intake and exhaust are set to maximize both fuel consumption and output.
THS-equipped vehicles feature selectable NORMAL, ECO and SPORT driving modes that let the driver tailor the Toyota Crown’s performance personality. SPORT mode improves and sharpens throttle response, making hybrid driving more fun. ECO mode changes the throttle and environmental logic to help the driver focus on maximizing mileage from the fuel and battery, while NORMAL mode is ideal for everyday driving. Additionally, an EV (Electric Vehicle) mode allows electric-only driving at low speeds for short distances.
The HYBRID MAX equipped Platinum grade receives a more comprehensive drive mode selection – which not only includes NORMAL, ECO and SPORT but adds three drive modes: SPORT+ mode that provides an emphasis on steering response, flat cornering and a sense of stability, COMFORT mode that provides a more supple drive that emphasizes passenger comfort and a CUSTOM mode that enables drivers to adjust system settings individually, creating a safe profile that suites their driving habits.
All-Wheel Drive at its Smartest
The 2023 Toyota Crown comes standard with Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive. The XLE and Limited grades come with E-Four AWD and the Platinum grade comes with E-Four Advanced, two highly efficient systems that take maximum advantage of the hybrid powertrain’s benefits. Instead of using a transfer case and driveshaft to the rear wheels, Electronic On-Demand AWD employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed.
E-Four AWD achieves stable performance by driving the rear wheels with a rear motor, to provide traction when needed in slippery conditions. Toyota Crown uses the latest evolution of this system and strengthens the driving force of the rear motor compared to the conventional E-Four, enhancing stability when cornering. The front and rear wheel driving force distribution is precisely controlled to the front and rear wheels between 100:0 and 20:80, ensuring both enhanced fuel efficiency and comfortable driving performance.
E-Four Advanced AWD, paired with HYBRID MAX on the Platinum grade, delivers power to the front and rear wheels via a front mounted hybrid motor and to rear wheels through a rear- mounted eAxle electric motor. This system helps ensure stable AWD performance and satisfying acceleration thanks to being paired with a direct shift six-speed automatic transmission. On the E-Four Advanced system, the front and rear wheel drive force is precisely controlled between 70:30 and 20:80. The rear motor, which generates power through water cooling, makes it possible to maximize torque to the rear wheels. This new AWD system enhances the drive force of the rear wheels and provides the feel of rear-wheel-drive maneuverability, straight line stability, comfortable turning and responsive acceleration.
Toyota Crown offers either a direct shift six-speed automatic transmission (Platinum grade only) or an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) (XLE and Limited).
The Platinum grade’s direct-shift six speed transmission provides responsive acceleration thanks to Toyota’s new Hydraulic multi plate wet start clutch. A combination of technologies works together to ensure enhanced accelerator operation and vehicle response. The six speed AT also applies the assistance of the motor generator within the HYBRID MAX system, minimizing shift drop across the power band. Drivers can also throw the shifter into fixed gear mode, for paddle shifted fun.
The eCVT on the XLE and Limited Grade uses a shift-by-wire system that shifts gears electronically, providing smart shift operation with a single action. Paired with the THS front and rear hybrid transaxle, Toyota Crown’s powertrain provides low fuel consumption and low noise. Aspects that manage fuel efficiency include an optimized gear ratio and a deceleration mechanism to reduce gear engagement loss.
Smooth Operator, Ready to Ride
Toyota Crown is built around a version of the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TNGA-K) platform that underpins some of the company’s sedans and crossovers. As such, Crown delivers the best of both worlds: sedan driving comfort and crossover-like ride height. Crown’s overall height comes in at 60.6 inches, compared to 56.9 for Camry, its overall length is 194 inches, width is 72.4 inches, and wheelbase 112.2 inches. The TNGA-K platform also allows front strut and rear multi-link suspension tuning that helps foster handling agility while providing a supple, quiet ride.
The Platinum grade comes equipped with a standard Adaptive Variable Suspension. AVS components have been tuned to support the high output of 2.4 L Turbo Hybrid Engine and eAxle. Crown’s AVS uses variable oil pressure shock absorbers. This system automatically controls the friction within the absorber when turning, controlling the damping force, reducing pitch at high drive torque and minimizing the effects of bumpy roads. A linear solenoid type actuator is also equipped on the system to minimize body pitch and roll.
For all grades, Toyota engineers developed a suspension system that provides comfortable maneuverability and a relaxing ride. Front suspension components include a MacPherson- type strut and a new method for fastening the steering gear, enabling rigid, direct handling that also reduces noise and vibration. A newly developed multi-link rear suspension with higher rigidity helps ensure a faster response to drive torque. Rear suspension arm placement was also optimized to suppress changes in the vertical posture, contributing to a flat driving feeling and enhanced texture.
Toyota Crown’s handling is bolstered by an electronically controlled brake system featuring Active Cornering Assist (ACA), which engages the stability control to reduce understeer in certain cornering situations, so the driver feels the enhanced agility, not the system’s operation.
The combination of large-diameter tires and wheels helps give the Toyota Crown its “lift-up” style. The XLE and Limited grades ride on 19-inch multi-spoke two-tone alloy wheels. Limited has available 21-inch 10-spoke dark metallic alloy wheels as part of the Advanced Tech package. The Platinum comes standard with 21-inch machined 10-spoke alloy wheels with black accents.
First Class Cabin
Toyota Crown provides exemplary comfort with standard 8-way power adjustable driver and front passenger seats. Front seat adjustments include slide, recline, tilt, height adjust and lumbar support (driver seat only). Rear seats include ample cushioning and bolster support for maximum enjoyment.
The Toyota Crown comes with standard heated front seats that can be adjusted to three levels. Limited and Platinum add standard ventilated front seats and heated rear seats to the list of creature comforts. The seats are not only comfortable, but stylish, with black Softex® and fabric seating on the XLE and leather-trimmed seating standard on the Limited and Platinum grade.
Dual zone climate control is also standard for all grades. A thin, attractive illuminated control panel runs along the dashboard, just below the multimedia screen, with frequently used functions placed on the lower row keyboard switches. All Crown grades also receive a 12.3- inch color MID. Drivers can select different displays with the push of a button, including a Hybrid System Indicator showing the driver system output and regeneration status to encourage eco-driving habits. As used on other Toyota hybrid models, the display suggests the optimal acceleration amount for eco driving.
The Crown Platinum and Limited grades include a standard panoramic moonroof. For added function and ambience, in-cabin LED lighting adds a premium feel. Illumination, out of consideration for visibility and operability, includes overhead and front/rear footwell lighting, and cup holders, USB ports and door handles also receive lit accents.
Crown has drivers and passengers plugged-in when it comes to charging devices. On the driver’s side, a vertical-type wireless Qi charging with enhanced space efficiency comes standard. There is also a standard USB-Type A and 12V charging port inside the console. A separate dual USB-Type C terminal is also standard on the passenger side, with the insertion port intentionally pointing to the passenger seat. For rear seat passengers, two USB-Type C ports are standard.
To aid outward visibility, the Platinum grade comes standard with Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, which provides a panoramic overhead view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Bird’s Eye View is available as part of the Advanced Tech Package on the Limited grade.
The standard backup camera features projected path and dynamic gridlines. For additional convenience, Limited and Platinum come standard with a Smart Key System that works on all four doors.
A Sanctuary on the Road
For customers who seek premium experiences in a vehicle, keeping unwanted noise out is paramount. The 2023 Toyota Crown’s cabin brings that priority quietly home. Rather than simply aiming at a “numbers” goal for sound level (decibels), Toyota engineers created a calm atmosphere conducive to enjoying easy conversation or hearing music in cleaner detail.
The high-strength TNGA-K platform is the first defense against noise intrusion, curbing vibration through the steering, floor and structure. Suspension tuning resists road surface disturbances and tire noise is reduced via strategically placed insulation and thoughtful tire/wheel construction.
That’s just the beginning.
Acoustic glass adds a sound-blocking barrier and absorbing insulation and body sealing material are placed throughout the structure, under the carpeting and above the headliner. The materials and their placement were optimized to minimize noise in the frequencies that typically interfere with conversation.
As one example, a sound absorbing pad is placed between the engine bay and cabin to reduce road and engine noise. Engineers also undertook extensive analysis of noise transmission paths and filled spaces around door frames, window openings and wiring harnesses for enhanced cabin quietness. Even the inner rocker and bulkhead are connected with adhesive for maximum noise control.
Next Gen Toyota Audio Multimedia
All Toyota Crown models feature Toyota’s all-new, North American developed Audio Multimedia system. Featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, the system offers an improved user experience and a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including being Over-the-Air (OTA) updatable. Users can interact with the new system’s design through touch and voice activation. With Intelligent Assistant available through Drive Connect*, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice-activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more.
The cloud-based native navigation system also offered through Drive Connect allows for real- time Over-the-Air updates for mapping and Points of Interest (POI), and Google POI data is integrated to ensure up-to-date search capability.
The XLE grade features a 6-speaker sound system that provides clean, powerful sound for all types of music. On Limited and Platinum, standard is an audiophile-worthy JBL Premium Audio System with 11 speakers, including a rear subwoofer, powered by an 8-channel amplifier. It was acoustically tuned for Toyota Crown to match unique vehicle characteristics.
Toyota Audio Multimedia allows for simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity with support for wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM capability. A Wi-Fi Connect subscription offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices. Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio, USB data and a SiriusXM® Platinum Plan 3- month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect also enables the Integrated Streaming feature, providing the ability to link your separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control.
The Toyota Crown also offers a host of additional Connected Services. A Safety Connect 1- year trial includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator and Collision Assistance. A Service Connect 3 -year trial provides drivers the capability of receiving Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders.
A Digital Key is offered on the Platinum and as part of the Advanced Technology package on the Limited grade. With an active Remote Connect subscription, drivers can use the Digital Key via the Toyota app and allow passive entry unlock on front doors and trunk or push start using smartphone as key. The Digital Key also provides the ability to share keys with friends and family.
Advanced Park, Safety & Other Technology
Standard on the Platinum grade is Toyota’s Advanced Park System. Sensors identify an open parking space, then control steering, shifting, acceleration and braking for hands-free parallel or reverse/forward perpendicular parking.
All Toyota Crown grades come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), which includes enhancements made possible by system sensors with improved detection capability. The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection is capable of detecting motorcyclists and guardrails in certain conditions. When making a turn or approaching an intersection, the system is designed to detect certain forward or laterally approaching vehicles and provides audio/visual alerts and automatic braking in certain conditions.
Toyota Crown will be equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Improved lane recognition delivers refined performance of Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Lane Tracing Assist. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist is designed to notify the driver via audible and visual alerts and slight steering force if it senses the vehicle is leaving the lane without engaging a turn signal. When DRCC is set and engaged, Lane Tracing Assist uses visible lane markers or a preceding vehicle to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
Automatic High Beams are designed to detect preceding or oncoming vehicles and automatically switch between high beam and low beam headlights. Road Sign Assist is designed to recognize certain road sign information using a forward-facing camera and display it on the multi-information display (MID).
Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder comes standard on all Toyota Crown grades. The feature can note whether a rear door was opened after the vehicle has been turned on, with a reminder message in the instrument cluster after the engine is turned off, accompanied by multitone chimes.
In addition to the TSS 3.0 system, other standard safety features on the Crown include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which is designed to help detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) for added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible warning. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also comes standard.
Toyota Crown comes with a one-year trial subscription of Toyota Safety Connect® at no additional cost — which includes Emergency Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Locator, Roadside Assistance and Automatic Collision Notification.
Toyota Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership.
The 2023 Toyota Crown also comes with ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 39,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 32 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, a quarter of the company’s 2021 U.S. sales were electrified.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to virtually visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners and virtual field trips.
Listen to Grammy Award-winning Producer, DJ and Remixer Dave Audé discuss his debut album and illustrious career with Vaughn Lowery on 360 MAG podcast HERE.
Los Angeles native Dave Audé is a Grammy Award-winning producer. Currently, he resides in Nashville with his loving wife and three kids. In the early 90’s, he was best known as the co-founder of Moonshine Music.
Audé has produced a plethora of highly acclaimed artists such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, Céline Dion, Lady Gaga, and Madonna. With 13 number-one singles on the Billboard Dance Music Charts, he has remixed hundreds of songs.
In 2010, Audé was nominated for a Grammy for his remix of Dean Coleman’s, “I Want You.” In 2016, he won for his Bruno Mars makeover of “Uptown Funk.” Dave admits the best part of the Grammy’s, “Knowing I’m nominated.” The DJ adds, ”Obviously winning as well and taking home the trophy, but really getting there first, being nominated by someone and everyone vote for you, and making it to the final five is really amazing.”
Dave Audé’s professionalism and and rhythms reflect his characteristic ease within the realm of mathematical electronic music. With twenty years plus experience, this vet maintains his methodology, “The real focus is on the artist and the song,” Dave confesses.
Audacious Records has produced a 120 as a remixer and 14 #1s as an artist. In 2015, the imprint was listed No.1-Independent Record Label. Of late, they continue dropping hits like, “This Is Our Time” and “Break Out.”
In 2008, he was named musical director for the Pussycat Dolls Tour. Today, he serves as the Grammy co-chairman of the Nashville chapter.
Throughout the decades, he built a reputation as a master remixer and producer, delivering chart-topping results. Audé constantly experiments with various genres, conjuring melodic magic for his fans across the globe. In 2021, Audé received his third GRAMMY nod for “Best Remixed Recording, featuring Ariana Grande and Demi Lovato on “Met Him Last Night.”
Subsequently, Dave Audé made a decision to manufacture his very own menu of music. According to Dave, ‘‘I just decided that I wanted to do my thing and have an album. I really wanted to sit down and write a bunch of music with my friends and put out an album of my own.’’ Audé’s chameleon-like abilities allow him to succeed in any genre, from pop to country and electronic to rock. Upon being asked about his best-loved tracks, “They are all my favorites for different reasons.” Further, for Dave, the dance genre isn’t strictly for the clubs, it’s life’s soundtrack. ”Nowadays dance music is heard in everything, it’s to brush your teeth, to wake you up in the morning, to prepare breakfast, etc.,” shares the megastar.
Some advice to aspiring music producers:
“Sometimes the long road is the road to take.”
”You need to gain some experience and meet people.”
For all those people who want to work in music: “It’s really about knowing that you want to do something with music, you know, stick with it, keep in mind what your goal is, what your end goal is.”
TAKING OVER TWO NIGHTS ON JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE! NEXT WEEK!
Multi-Platinum entertainer Kane Brown, releases his third studio album, Different Man, today (listen here). The 17-track album features previously released songs “Grand,” #1 song “Like I Love Country Music,” “Whiskey Sour,” #1 hit “One Mississippi,” “Leave You Alone” and features from Blake Shelton and his wife Katelyn Brown. The album showcases production work from Brown himself along with Dann Huff, Andrew Goldstein, Lindsay Rimes and Ilya Toshinskiy. In celebration of the release, Brown releases the music video for “Thank God,” a loving duet with his wife Katelyn Brown (watch here).
Brown has already been in full swing with promotion for the album. At the end of last month, he made history with his debut performance of his smash hit single “Grand” on the MTV VMA stage marking him as the first male country artist to hit the iconic stage (watch here). Brown will continue his release week with a two nights on Jimmy Kimmel Live! (9/13 & 9/14). Kane’s previously announced performance on Good Morning America will be rescheduled for a later date. Brown spoke with The New York Times for a profile and was featured in the Los Angeles Times Fall Music Preview.
Brown’s latest single, “Like I Love Country Music” reached #1 on the Country Radio charts last month. The accolade earned Brown his eighth chart-topping record on the Country Radio charts. Brown, who has garnered nearly 12 billion career streams to date, also earns his fastest rising single with “Like I Love Country Music.” Additionally, “Like I Love Country Music” topped the Australian and Canadian radio charts, marking Brown’s first 7-week run at the top of the Canadian charts.
Brown will be kicking off his global Drunk or Dreaming Tour on September 17, which will include his first touring dates to Australia and New Zealand as well as his long-awaited return to Canada, Europe and the US. Just announced earlier this week, the US leg of the tour will kick off in Grand Rapids, MI on March 16, 2023 and hit 23 US cities along the way before wrapping in Greenwood Village, CO at Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre on Saturday, June 10. During the tour, Brown will perform his first solo headlining arena show at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville on March 31. Tickets for Drunk or Dreaming are on sale now. Visit his official site for a full list of tour dates, additional pre-sale and ticket on-sale information. Special guests Dustin Lynch, Gabby Barrett and LOCASH will join on select dates.
About Kane Brown
Named as one of Time’s 100 most influential people in the world, Brown has ascended from social media notability to become one of country music’s most accomplished mainstays with eight chart-topping singles to his name. Noted as “the future of country music” (Billboard), Brown first broke onto the scene with the arrival of his self-titled, 2X Platinum debut album (2016), where he became the first artist ever to lead all five of Billboard ’s main country charts simultaneously. His debut effort, Kane Brown, topped the Billboard Top Country Albums chart for 13 weeks and garnered 7X Platinum-certified hits “Heaven” and “What Ifs”-the fourth and seventh most-streamed country songs of all time (U.S. Nielsen Country On-Demand Streams chart). With the release of his follow-up album Experiment (2018), Brown became the only male country artist in more than 24 years to have his sophomore album debut at the top of the Billboard 200.
Following Experiment, Brown released his multi-song project Mixtape Vol. 1 – which earned Brown an ACM Award nomination for Album of the Year (2021) and an ACM win for “Video of the Year.” A CMA, ACM, Billboard, AMA and People’s Choice Award nominee, Brown has collaborated with numerous artists including Grammy and Academy Award winning singer-songwriter H.E.R. (“Blessed & Free,”) DJ Marshmello (2X Platinum “One Thing Right”), Khalid and Swae Lee (3X Platinum “Be Like That”), “blackbear (Platinum “Memory”), John Legend (“Last Time I Say Sorry”), Camila Cabello (“Never Be The Same” remix), Brooks & Dunn (“Believe”) and Becky G. (“Lost In The Middle Of Nowhere” remix), Lauren Alaina (7X Platinum “What If’s” and Chris Young (2X Platinum “Famous Friends”), which became Billboard’s 2021 year-end No. 1 Country Airplay Song and earned a CMT Award for “Collaborative Video of the Year.”
The artist is working on a new more experimental and romantic album. Taylor Swift is in Nashville recording songs.
She has been involved in controversy after it was reaffirmed that she is one of the most polluting people in the world with her private plane. But beyond the important consumption that the artist of her private jet makes, there are musical novelties that could pleasantly surprise her followers. According to the British outlet The Sun, the singer would be recording new songs for the near future, an album after two years without releasing one.
The Sun has contacted sources close to Taylor and has confirmed that she is in Nashville writing and recording. She plans to release a more experimental and romantic album, far removed from what we are used to hearing with her own heartbroken songs. Because the artist’s love life is doing very well, thanks to her love affair with Joe Alwyn.
This new album could contain a variety of genres and new sounds. Even Taylor Swift is looking forward to collaborating with up-and-coming producers and singers in the music industry.
It would be the first completely new album we could hear from Taylor Swift in two years. In 2020, she wowed us with two unbelievably great albums in Evermore and Folklore.
In this time, she has also amazed us with the re-recordings of some of her previous musical works, such as Red (Taylor’s Version) and Fearless (Taylor’s Version), thus becoming the owner of the rights to her own songs.
“I can’t help but help you, but it doesn’t make you stronger.
You’ll fall holding onto me when you call thinking I can be your savior.“
“I couldn’t be happier to release a song that is so near and dear to my heart,” said Moriber. “I hope that ‘Savior‘ inspires people to take care of themselves first and foremost and to leave unhealthy situations when their wellbeing is in jeopardy.”
“Savior” is an intensely personal track that Moriber penned with Bill DiLuigi and Josh Ronen about learning how to love someone without losing too much of yourself. Produced by Todd Lombardo and Craig Alvin (Kacey Musgraves), “Savior” showcases Moriber‘s strong voice and ever-relevant lyricism.
Entertainment Focus said of “Savior,” “One listen to the track puts me firmly in mind of artists like Carly Pearce and Kelsea Ballerini. Uplifting vocals and soaring arrangements combine to produce an evocative, powerful ballad.”
Moriber‘s previous singles, “Down to Nothing” and “This Town Made Us,” both of which she co-wrote, introduced the former Broadway star to the country music scene. Since then, she has been crisscrossing the country on radio tours and introducing herself to stations as programmers and fans alike fall in love with her thoughtful songwriting and incredible vocals. A recent television performance on “Today in Nashville,” high-profile appearances at “Live in the Vineyard,” an opening stint for Dylan Scott, and performing the National Anthem at the SF Giants game have solidified Brooke as a star on the rise.
When she is not on the road, Moriber has been hard at work in Nashville with some of the industry’s top writers and producers as she continues to record for her upcoming full-length project. Inspired by the likes of Jennifer Nettles, Ingrid Andress, Brandi Carlile and her idol Linda Ronstadt among many others, Brooke is poised to take her place among the biggest voices in country music. For more information on Brooke, visit https://www.brookemoriber.com.
Last month Maisie took the stage at CBS‘s Late Late Show with James Cordenfor an electrifying performance of her viral single “Cate‘s Brother.” The episode was part of Corden’s special run of shows from London and landed in the midst of a 5 night stand at London’s Wembley Stadium supporting Ed Sheeran‘s “+–=÷x Tour.” Watch the performance HERE.
Recently announced, Maisie‘s North American headline tour dubbed ‘i’m telling the whole of america tour’ is selling fast. The 5-date run kicks off on November 4th with a sold-out show at Hammerstein Ballroom in New York and makes stops in Toronto (SOLD OUT), Chicago (VENUE UPGRADED), and San Francisco (SOLD OUT) before wrapping at The Wiltern in Los Angles on November 14th. For tickets and more information on Maisie’s upcoming North American tour please visit HERE.
Last month, Maisie unveiled “Cate’s Brother (Matt’s Version),” a stripped-back version of her viral song featuring British singer-songwriter Matt Maltese. No stranger to a TikTok hit – his own, ‘As The World Caves In’, exploded on the platform during lockdown – Matt joined Maisie to expand the ‘Cate’s Brother’ universe, and shared his response to the original story.
Released in May, the original version of “Cate’s Brother” arrived to critical acclaim and has already cracked 8.7M million streams. Based on a true story, Maisie initially teased the track live from a studio session in February and with an overwhelming response from her fanbase, continued working on the song in real time, sharing everything from Cate’s first listen reaction to debut performances. Upon release, Billboard praised the track as “fantastic” adding “the storytelling beneath the wiry pop-rock production is top-notch” while Peopledeclared Maisie as “pop’s next big thing.” Consequence of Sounddescribed the track as “vibrant, playful and fun” and hailed, “If there was ever any doubt that Peters can oscillate between more delicate, introspective tracks over to crowd-ready bops like this, let ‘Cate’s Brother’ be the end of the conversation.”
Before amassing over half a billion global streams, Maisie spent time honing her craft in sessions across London, LA and Nashville, creating songs for her 2021 debut album ‘You Signed Up For This’ alongside the likes of Ed Sheeran, Steve Mac, Fred again.., Johnny McDaid, Miranda Cooper, and producers Joe Rubel (Tom Grennan, Benjamin Francis Leftwich), Afterhrs (Niall Horan, GRACEY), Rob Milton (Easy Life, Holly Humberstone) and Brad Ellis (Jorja Smith, Little Mix). With an innate gift for storytelling, crafting relatable, diary-entry songs, ‘You Signed Up For This‘ is both Maisie’s coming of age story and a love letter to girlhood; penned with the wit, charm and quiet confidence that has seen her ascend from busking on the streets of Brighton to signing with Ed Sheeran‘s Gingerbread Man Records and selling out her entire 2022 North American ‘You Signed Up For This‘ tour.
Returning home after her sold-out 19-date ‘You Signed Up For This‘ tour, which included standout shows at The El Rey and New York’s Webster Hall, Maisie is playing to a further 2.5 million+ people this summer as support on Ed Sheeran‘s ‘+–=÷x Tour’ in Europe and working on the follow up to her acclaimed debut album ‘You Signed Up For This.’
Capitol CMG artist and songwriter, Anne Wilson, has been taking the music world by storm with the release of her debut album, My Jesus, this Spring. This past Friday, June 3rd, Anne took home 2 K-LOVE Fan Awards – Female Artist of the Year and Breakout Single of the Year for her hit song, “My Jesus.”
“I grew up listening to Christian radio and K-LOVE, so winning a breakout single is just so surreal,” says Wilson. “I am so grateful for how Christian music impacts so many people for the Kingdom. So thankful. I am so undone by God’s faithfulness. Winning female artist of the year means so much to me. What an honor! So grateful.”
The K-LOVE Fan Awards is the home of the only fan-voted awards show in Christian entertainment. The Awards bring together the biggest names in Christain music, films, sports, books, and more, geared to create a fan experience that celebrates and promotes artists, athletes, authors, and entertainers with excellence that engage and impact popular culture.
Anne’s current single, “Mamas,” was released this past Mother’s Day weekend and features one of her personal musical inspirations, Hillary Scott. The moving track’s music video about the importance of a mother’s love has garnered 5.9 million views to date.
For additional information on Anne Wilson, including upcoming tour dates, please visit
Singer/songwriter Anne Wilson knows the healing power of music firsthand. The lyrics of Hillsong Worship’s “What A Beautiful Name” became a lifeline for the Lexington, Kentucky native after her brother was tragically killed in a car accident at the age of 23. Although she spent much of her childhood behind a piano, Wilson sang in front of an audience for the first time at her brother’s funeral. It was at that moment that she realized what she was born to do. A video of her moving performance organically circulated, eventually landing her a record deal. With a mesmerizing voice and a visible hunger for Jesus, the 20-year-old relies on personal journal entries and time spent in nature for songwriting inspiration.
Wilson’s introductory track, “My Jesus”—which she co-wrote with Jeff Pardo and Matthew West—is a warm invitation to experience her Savior in the same intimate way she knows Him. She released a debut three-track single—also titled My Jesus—for Capitol Christian Music Group in early 2021 and followed it up with a live EP, My Jesus (Live in Nashville). Her song, “My Jesus,” charted on the Spotify Viral 50, Shazam Top 200, and Rolling Stone Top 25 Trending charts. Her story was also featured in the Religion News Service and The Washington Post. She made her Opry debut on the iconic stage in September 2021. Wilson was featured in Billboard Magazine as the October 2021 Chart Breaker artist.
Known for its natural beauty, unique culture and southern hospitality, Tennessee strives to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts to preserve its wonder and charm for future generations to come. In honor of Earth Day, Tennessee Tourism created a roundup of clean, green and sustainable ways to eat, explore, lodge and travel across the state. Find Tennessee Tourism on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
A More Sustainable Tennessee
The Solar Farm Welcome Center: The Solar Farm Welcome Center is surrounded by a 25-acre, five-megawatt solar farm, overseen by the University of Tennessee. The center features a circular interactive spectrum exhibit bringing solar power to life for visitors. Here you can learn how solar energy really works, how the sun is keeping the lights on, and the innovations and opportunities solar power brings to Tennesseans.
Tennessee Sustainable Spirits: Tennessee is home to world-class whiskey, wine, beer and fine spirits. Tennessee Sustainable Spirits is a voluntary recognition and technical assistance program by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation which seeks to reduce operational costs and environmental impacts for wineries and wine-growers, breweries and distilleries as well as serve as a gateway to sustainability through popular brands.
Tennessee Sustainable Hospitality: Along with generating economic activity, Tennessee’s hospitality industry has an environmental impact on the state through resource usage and waste generation. Tennessee Sustainable Hospitality and TDEC provide a sustainability roadmap for businesses to follow which includes tips for energy and water conservation, recycling and waste reduction, food waste reduction, communication, education and greening the supply chain.
Keep Tennessee Beautiful: Keep Tennessee Beautiful is the state-level affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, and serves as a state resource for litter prevention, community greening, and recycling and water education. They are also partners with TDOT’s Nobody Trashes Tennessee, the state of Tennessee’s official litter prevention campaign.
Chattanooga Airport: The Chattanooga Airport became the first and only U.S. airport powered by sustainable solar energy with a 2.74-megawatt solar farm consisting of over 9,000 solar panels and battery storage technology that allows the system to run off the grid. Additionally, it has LEED-certified facilities, and the world’s first LEED Platinum Certified aviation terminal.
Celebrate Earth Day with These Statewide Events
EarthDayz at Rock City: Join Rock City Gardens in Chattanooga this April for EarthDayz, a naturally fun outdoor Earth Day celebration. Be mesmerized when vines and trees come to life with methodical movement, hear live percussionists and go on a virtual scavenger hunt while enjoying the great outdoors.
Museum of Science & History’s Annual Plant Sale: This Earth Day weekend the Museum of Science & History (MoSH) in Memphis will host its annual Volunteer Plant Sale on April 22 and 23, 2022 at the Lichterman Nature Center. During the celebration guests can explore the 65-acre nature center and arboretum that is home to lush gardens, wildlife exhibits, and trails through lake, meadow and forest habitats.
Ijams Nature Center’s Sustainable Fashion Event: On Sunday, April 24, the Ijams Nature Center and Natural Alternatives Salon and Spa in Knoxville will present Fleurish: A Sustainable Fashion Event. It will include 12 local designers, along with hair stylists and makeup artists, who will create looks using both recycled and natural materials.
Seed Lending Library at Stokes Brown Library: Dig in the Dirt! Check out free seeds to plant a garden through the Seed Lending Library at Stokes Brown Public Library in Springfield and while you’re there, check out some fun Earth Day reading for all ages, whether children-friendly Earth Day crafts, juvenile and family gardening, or adult sustainable living skills. Try your hand at a window-seal herb garden, porch container garden, raised beds or inground garden and discover your green thumb.
Earth Day at Wolf Gap: Celebrate Earth Day at Wolf Gap in Pulaski by getting on in nature with a Native Plant Walk, observe and assist with freshwater testing, get crafty and make native wildflower seed bombs. There will also be a special Earth Day scavenger hunt, Tenn Pin Alley’s food truck and more.
Where to Stay
David Crockett State Park Cabins: The David Crockett State Park Cabins in Lawrenceburg are the perfect, family weekend getaway. Equipped with geothermal-powered HVAC units and gas fireplaces, these LEED-certified vacation homes are ahead of the curve on energy conservation. The state park also has the Tennessee Naturalist Program which serves as an educational training program to provide service and outreach efforts to help preserve Tennessee’s natural beauty and resources.
The Greenbrier Beechhouse: Enjoy unique, earth-friendly lodging at the luxury treehouse rental in Greenbrier which features tongue-and-groove pine ceilings, a spacious deck, swing bridge, fresh eggs and much more. Visit the magic and check availability HERE.
The Crash Pad: Located in Chattanooga, this eco-friendly, LEED-certified glamping spot is unlike any other. Offering 24 bunk beds or five private rooms, complimentary DIY breakfast and walking distance to some of the area’s best restaurants and bars, this classic yet charming hostel provides visitors with a blend of reclaimed and renewable resources to ensure the best of energy efficiency while supporting local sustainable businesses.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Polk County Tramp Festival: The 64th annual Ramp Tramp Festival in Reliance will take place April 22-23 with two days of live music, crafts and traditional Ramp Meals which includes ramps in eggs, white beans, cornbread, fried potatoes and streaked meat bacon.
Lupi’s Pizza Pies: Lupi’s Pizza Pies in Chattanooga makes their pizzas and salads from local ingredients purchases from local farms and vendors in the community, or from their own Flying Turtle Farm. In addition to producing most of their own meats, vegetables and flowers. Lupi’s recycles everything possible from glass and plastic to trimmings and food waste from the kitchen to feed the pigs at the farm.
The Farm House: The Farm House in Nashville is an innovative farm-to-table restaurant located in downtown Nashville. Prepare your taste buds for Chef/Owner Trey Cioccia‘s ever-changing seasonal menu. This spring enjoy delicious dishes ranging from trout to southern carbonara, bone-in porkchop and much more.
Get Outside
Memphis Riverfront Park’s Arbor Day Tree Planting and Pollinator Party: On April 29, head to Mud Island to volunteer in planting replacement trees along the river at its Arbor Day Tree Planting. Stick around the next day to participate in the Pollinator Workshop Garden party at Beale Street Landing to learn more about local pollinators.
Springfield Greenway: Springfield Greenway is a scenic 4-mile paved trail that meanders along the historic and business districts, we well as tree-lined Sulfur Creek and public playgrounds. The flat and wide terrain accommodates walkers, runners and bike riders. This greenway has been honored with a 4-star Award, the highest award granted from the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association
Gatlinburg Skylift Park: Take in Tennessee’s stunning beauty at Gatlinburg Skylift Park’s launch of its special VIP Sunrise Access event. Here, ticket holders will be granted early access to the park to see the sunrise over the stunning Smoky Mountains.
Mirimichi Lakes Golf: Bring your “A-game” this Earth Day at Mirimichi Lakes Golf in Millington. This award-winning course of more than 7,400 yards provides its visitors with an eco-friendly experience. From integrated pest management and water conservation, Mirimichi offers championship-worthy views and environmentally friendly practices for both amateur and professional level players.
Immerse Yourself
Cheekwood Estate and Garden: Cheekwood Estate and Gardens in Nashville serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum and art museum with an extraordinary historic 1930s estate, 55 acres of cultivated grounds and expansive vistas, 12 distinct gardens and a 1.5-mile-long woodland trail. Visitors are invited to come and celebrate Earth Day by enjoying this year’s Martin Shallenberger Artist-in-Residence, a free 30-minute audio tour of the 1.5-mile-long Ann & Monroe Carell Jr. Family Sculpture Trail, pick up an arboretum map to learn about the 120+ distinct species that live on the property, experience the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden and partake in Cheekwood’s Wellness 360 which is an initiative in partnership with Vanderbilt Health that encourages visitors to take advantage of Cheekwood’s 55-acres of breathing room to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.
Hatchie BirdFest: Head to Brownville to partake in 3-days of bird watching and escape to the great outdoors at the ninth annual Hatchie Birdfest (April 22-24). The event will offer a variety of activities for all ages and skill levels, including nature hikes, educational seminars, a canoe trip down Oneal Lake and much more.
Spring Garden Fair: The Spring Garden Fair in Kingsport is a true celebration of heritage farming and heirloom gardening. From April 30-May 1, come and experience the oldest garden fair in the region where attendees can hear from master gardeners, buy from a wide selection of heritage and native perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs.
The Art Project: Keep the sustainable, family-friendly fun going in Memphis at The Art Project, a studio where kids dive into their craft skills and get creative with a wide array of supplies and recycled materials for their very own DIY piece of art.
The Homestead Festival: The Homestead Festival takes place June 3-4 at a 100-acre historic farm in Columbia and will feature a variety of entry-level homesteading activities, talks and demonstrations during the day and then musical performances on the main stage at sunset. The festival was created for those interested in getting started in homesteading or living more sustainably by teaching them the skills of food preservation, raising chickens, making soap, homeschooling and more.
