Construction is now underway on a new hotel that promises to enhance the connection between downtown Knoxville and the Fort Sanders neighborhood, popular among University of Tennessee students. The project, located at the intersection of Clinch Avenue and World’s Fair Park, marks a significant development for the area. This eight-story Home 2 Suites by Hilton will feature 130 rooms and include amenities such as an outdoor patio and rooftop lounge. The site was acquired in 2021 by Sachchidanand Hotel LLC, part of a group with several other hospitality properties across the city.
The hotel's design, crafted by Atlanta-based ELEVATE Architecture Studio, reflects modern aesthetics while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape. Construction is being handled by McMurry Construction from Memphis. Interestingly, earlier plans from 2020 had proposed a slightly different concept for the same location, envisioning a smaller upscale hotel with fewer rooms. Despite these changes, the current project maintains its focus on creating a vibrant space that complements the bustling downtown environment.
This new addition to Knoxville’s hospitality sector not only diversifies the accommodation options but also fosters greater connectivity between the university and downtown areas. With multiple hotel projects currently in development, including Moxy by Marriott and SpringHill Suites by Marriott, the city is poised to welcome more visitors and strengthen its appeal as a dynamic destination. Such developments highlight the growing synergy between the academic community and the broader urban fabric, promoting a richer, more integrated experience for residents and visitors alike.
In the past year, Savannah has witnessed a significant surge in construction activity, marking a milestone for its development sector. The city's construction permits reached an impressive valuation of $930 million, reflecting a robust 5.6 percent growth from the previous year. This achievement not only surpasses the record set in 2022 but also underscores the city's ongoing commitment to progress and expansion.
Residential construction has been a key driver of this momentum. In 2024, the Development Services Department issued a record number of 1,054 permits, with a total construction cost estimated at $250 million. This indicates a strong demand for new housing, contributing significantly to the city's economic vitality and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The remarkable growth in construction signifies more than just numbers; it represents a positive outlook for Savannah's future. With increased investment in infrastructure and residential projects, the city is poised to attract more businesses and residents. This upward trend exemplifies the community's resilience and dedication to fostering sustainable development, setting a promising path for continued prosperity.
Over a decade ago, a simple YouTube video featuring a toddler's unimpressed expression transformed into an internet sensation. The "Side Eyeing Chloe" meme has since become a timeless symbol of skepticism and judgment. As Chloe Clem grew from a 2-year-old viral star to a 14-year-old teenager, her life and that of her family underwent significant changes. While the meme brought unexpected fame and financial stability, it also prompted reflections on privacy, consent, and the impact of early childhood exposure to media.
The Birth of an Iconic Meme
In 2013, Katie Clem shared a video on YouTube showing her daughters' reactions to a surprise trip to Disneyland. While older sister Lily's excited tears garnered initial attention, it was young Chloe's stoic side-eye that became the real star. Within weeks, Chloe's image flooded the internet, turning her into an overnight sensation. The family quickly adapted to their newfound fame, leveraging the meme for commercial opportunities and even selling the image as an NFT for a substantial sum.
The meme's virality changed the family's lifestyle dramatically. Initially, Katie and David Clem were struggling financially, but the meme's success provided them with much-needed financial support. They used the earnings to pay bills, upgrade their living conditions, and even fund educational pursuits. Chloe's fame extended beyond the United States, leading to memorable trips to Brazil, where she was celebrated like a celebrity. Despite the whirlwind of attention, Katie remained cautious about protecting her children's well-being and privacy.
Reflecting on Fame and Moving Forward
As time passed, the Clem family reassessed their involvement in social media. Initially, the excitement of fame and positive feedback led to consistent YouTube uploads. However, Katie noticed her children's enthusiasm waning and made the decision to prioritize their comfort over public demand. This shift marked a turning point, as the family reduced their online presence and focused on more intentional content creation.
Katie now reflects on the experience with mixed emotions. While she appreciates the opportunities the meme brought, she acknowledges the importance of considering long-term effects on her children. Chloe, now a teenager, embraces her past with pride and sees her parents' old videos as a unique archive of her childhood. She remains open to creating content on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, though she prefers a more private and controlled approach. Katie's evolved perspective emphasizes the importance of balancing public interest with her children's well-being, ensuring they have a say in their digital footprint.