No matter what happens on the gridiron during the Outback Bowl on New Years Day, there’ll be plenty of “spirit” on hand in the municipal offices of Knoxville, Tenn., and Evanston, thanks to a deal made between the two mayors.
With the University of Tennessee Volunteers slated to play the Northwestern Wildcats, the mayors of the two home cities made a bet via a conference call Friday that was made public Monday.
Evanston’s Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl wagered a bottle of FEW Spirits Bourbon Whiskey if Tennessee wins, while Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero wagered a bottle of Old City Heirloom Corn Whiskey from Knox Whiskey Works if Northwestern is victorious.
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“I appreciate Mayor Rogero’s good sportsmanship in putting up authentic Tennessee whiskey against the world’s best bourbon.” said Tisdahl. “It will be my pleasure to toast the Wildcats with some of Tennessee’s finest after Northwestern hands it to the Volunteers,” she added.
Rogero’s response: “I look forward to enjoying some of Evanston’s world-class bourbon after the Vols’ big win on New Year’s Day. It will just make the victory that much sweeter.” She added: “But any time Mayor Tisdahl is passing through Knoxville, I will be happy to treat her to a sampling of Knox Whiskey Works’ fine local libations. May the best team – and whiskey – win.”
The 2016 Outback Bowl will kick off on Friday, Jan. 1, at 11 a.m., and will be televised on ESPN 2.