Tuesday brings neighborhood connections at National Night Out and a lunchtime look at how ghost stories helped Americans process the Civil War.

Tuesday Trivia

Which planet rotates nearly on its side?

Uranus. Its axis is tilted about 98 degrees, making its seasons unlike those of any other planet. Explore Uranus with NASA.

Today in History

Tennessee Trivia

What unusual animal became Tennessee’s official state amphibian in 1995?

The Tennessee cave salamander, a pinkish aquatic salamander that lives in cave streams and sinkholes. Meet the species through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

Today’s Smile

Why did the taco refuse to argue?

It did not want to spill the beans. Share the smile and find more community stories at KnoxTNToday.

National Day

National Coaches Day honors the people who teach skills, build confidence and help athletes and teams work toward shared goals.

Today’s Highlights

  • National Night Out begins at Urban Wilderness Gateway Park: The free citywide kickoff runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at 1250 Tilson St., with first responders, games, community organizations and food. Guests may bring new stuffed animals for officers and firefighters to give children at emergency scenes. Read the city announcement.
  • Civil War ghost stories become a history lesson: Historian Amy Laurel Fluker discusses Haunted by Memory from noon-1 p.m. at the East Tennessee History Center, 601 S. Gay St. The free Brown Bag Lecture is also available online. See event details.
  • Oak Ridge Library hosts preschool storytime: Children and caregivers can gather for stories and laughter from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the library auditorium. Check the Oak Ridge calendar.

Local Events

  • Senior Job Fair: Knox County Senior Services welcomes job seekers age 50 and older Thursday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon to meet employers and explore full-time, part-time and seasonal work. Visit Knox County Senior Services.
  • Frozen Head Heritage Day: Traditional crafts, music, demonstrations and sheep herding fill the Stonecipher Kelly Homeplace Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free. Check Tennessee State Parks events.
  • Blessing of the Animals: The Episcopal Church of the Ascension welcomes pets Sunday, Oct. 11, at 4 p.m. at 800 S. Northshore Drive. Pet Pantry donations are invited. Visit Church of the Ascension.

Featured Resource

Office of Neighborhood Empowerment: The City of Knoxville’s Office of Neighborhood Empowerment helps residents organize, communicate and connect with city services. Its neighborhood directory, grants and event resources support the relationships celebrated during National Night Out. Explore neighborhood resources.

Helpful Links

  • KnoxTNToday Calendar — Find upcoming events submitted by community organizations and partners. Open the calendar.
  • Knox County Public Library — Browse classes, book clubs, children’s programs and special events. View the library calendar.
  • East Tennessee Historical Society — Find lectures, exhibits and genealogy programs at the History Center. Browse programs.
  • City of Knoxville — Review public meetings, city programs and neighborhood announcements. Visit the city website.
  • Tennessee State Parks — Search guided hikes, history programs and volunteer events statewide. Browse events.

Across Tennessee

The Trust Company of Tennessee announced five new hires along with six promotions and professional achievements, reflecting continued growth at the Knoxville-based wealth management firm. Visit The Trust Company of Tennessee.

Across America

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month encourages households and businesses to use strong passwords, multifactor authentication and current software. Review federal cybersecurity guidance.

Around the World

Nobel Prize announcements continue this week in Stockholm and Oslo, recognizing achievements in science, literature, peace and economics. Follow the official Nobel announcements.

Stock Market

U.S. markets are open Tuesday. Indexes and individual stocks can change throughout the day, so check current information before making financial decisions at MarketWatch.

Have an event, resource or community connection for a future edition? Send it to news@knoxtntoday.com.

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