Casey Phillips has worked as a features reporter in the Life department since May 2007. He writes about entertainment, consumer technology, animals and news of the weird. Casey hails from Knoxville and earned a bachelor of science degree in journalism and a bachelor of arts in German from Middle Tennessee State University, where he worked as the features editor for the student newspaper, Sidelines. Casey's writing has earned numerous accolades, including first and second place awards for technology reporting from the regional Green Eyeshade Awards (in 2012 and 2013), the East Tennessee Society of Professional Journalists Award of Excellence for Reviewing/Criticism (in 2007 and 2011) and frequent recognition from the Tennessee Press Association. In his spare time, he is an Irish musician, video game fanatic, movie junkie, avid reader and all-around geek extraordinaire. He also enjoys exercising, cooking and puppies, but not at the same time.
Popular wisdom suggests father-and-son bonding moments typically happen during activities like playing catch or learning how to shave.
by Casey PhillipsFrom its rich military history to the iconic landmark of the city's rebirth, the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga packs a lot into a midsize city. Whether you're looking for a taste reserved for those age 21 and up or something the whole family can enjoy, you'll find plenty to see and do.
by Casey Phillips and Jennifer BardonerIn 2015, Hamilton County's tourism industry raked in a record $1 billion, and more than 2.2 million nights worth of hotel rooms were booked in metro Chattanooga.
by Casey PhillipsIf you're reading this, then to — very reluctantly — quote The Eagles: I'm already gone.
by Casey PhillipsUnder all that bulky, blaster-resistant body armor, the stormtroopers of the Galactic Empire likely don't smell too grand when they return from skirmishes against the Rebellion. And after facing off against the forces of Cobra, G.I. Joe agents like Hawk and Flint could undoubtedly do with a shower before being debriefed.
by Casey PhillipsTonight, Oct. 6, to kick off the 40th anniversary celebration of its Broad Street branch, the Chattanooga Public Library will merrily bang coconuts together and lob holy hand grenades with aplomb during a free screening of 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail.'
by Casey PhillipsLive music, dancing, karaoke and bar scene happenings.
by Casey PhillipsWhen her kids were little, Heather Kilgore was petrified at the thought of sending them outside.
by Casey PhillipsI have immense respect for Black Jacket Symphony, the Birmingham, Ala.-based group of musical masochists who re-create — with exacting attention to detail — some of the greatest albums in the annals of rock music, from 'Abbey Road' to 'Thriller.'
by Casey PhillipsBy the time he actually got around to acting on it, George Bright's dream of hosting a free bluegrass festival on Chattanooga's waterfront was more than 30 years old.
by Casey PhillipsLive music, dancing, karaoke and bar scene happenings.
by Casey PhillipsConcerts, recitals, jam sessions and more.
by Casey PhillipsTo the unenlightened palate, there's no room for rum, gin or other high-alcohol beverages at the dining room table, unless it's at the bottom of a glass in the company of a tiny umbrella or a slice of lemon.
by Casey PhillipsA vivacious 22-year-old splitting her time between classes at Chattanooga State Community College and working for Southeastrans, a transportation management company, Sarah had received a raise earlier that day and had called her mother, brimming over with excitement.
by Casey PhillipsOne of the curiosities of the newspaper business is that, despite the many complaints people level at journalists, we're still regarded as a reliable source of information.
by Casey PhillipsIn the 77 years since its foundation, Marvel Comics has stood alongside DC Comics as the twin pillars of the comic-book publishing industry.
by Casey PhillipsLive music, dancing, karaoke and bar scene happenings.
by Casey PhillipsWith its expressive themes and grandiose orchestration, Richard Strauss' symphonic poem 'Don Juan' is a truly mammoth example of Romantic composition.
by Casey PhillipsConcerts, recitals, jam sessions and more.
by Casey PhillipsEvery year, however, dozens of local artists agree to go halfsies with the Southern Lit Alliance during smART, the organization's annual silent auction fundraiser.
by Casey Phillips