Carter County Living

Carter County Living ARTS

SHOPPING

LIVING

FEATURES

FOOD

Spring 2021

Making Memories The Sorrells

Following in their Footsteps...

Preston Benfield Just a girl and her horse...

Amber Clawson

Build the Home of Your Dreams

Construction-to-Perm Loan*

ONE TIME CLOSE! **Up to 100% Loan-to-Value for Qualifying Primary Residence Loans.

Bank your own way. citizensbank24.com 866-882-2265

* All loans subject to credit approval. Loans must be secured by a 1-4 single family dwelling. **Maximum of 80% funded during the construction period. Balance to be funded to borrower upon conversion to permanent financing.

Terms are accurate as of date of publication and are subject to change.

3

Member FDIC

Carter County Living

It looks like spring is finally here and I couldn’t be more excited. It has always been my favorite season with the smell of a fresh-cut lawn, sounds of kids playing at the parks, a time where families can get out and enjoy the great outdoors. What is there not to like about spring.

When I take my dog Bailey out of the morning, I hear the birds chirping and I look around and see the flowers sprouting up and my rose bush showing signs of life.

We are so blessed to witness such a fantastic transformation that happens from winter to spring. Here in Carter County, we get a ringside seat of one of the most beautiful places on earth.

If I could ever give some advice, it would be to slow down and enjoy what God has given us and enjoy every minute we have with our families.

On the cover of this issue, we have a family doing just that.

Donald and Amanda Sorrell along with their children, 11-year-old Damen and eight-year-old Addox, have spent the time preparing to travel the world to provide an unimaginable education for their children and drawing closer as a family.

The Sorrells have made the ultimate decision to escape the ordinary and living with the philosophy that less is more. So they sold their house to have the opportunity to travel the world and provide an unforgettable education to their homeschooled or should it be said world schooled children.

Another one of our features this month also showcases a family that spends time together. We have a father-son duo who use drag racing to build relationships between themselves and others.

It’s not just about the racing for Wesley Johnson; it’s about the relationships and memories that are made

at the track.

“When we go to the track, it’s always a family trip. But it’s not just my family; there’s a ‘track family,’ people you’ve gotten to know and always see when you’re there.”

Johnson began to fall in love with the sport growing up and being around classic cars as well as having a father, Gary Johnson, who was a car enthusiast.

Not too many people get to live their childhood dream; that didn’t stop Amber Clawson, who turned a dream of barrel racing into a reality.

Clawson had this dream since she was a very young girl and once she turned 24, her husband encouraged her to chase that dream and turn it into a reality by searching for a barrel horse and her childhood dream started becoming a reality.

Our artist spotlight is Preston Benfield, a graduate of Cloudland High School who is an up-and-coming country music artist in the area who has taken his musical talent and turned it from a hobby into something bigger.

So don’t forget to check your calendars for Benfield’s upcoming dates because this is one artist whose performance you do not want to miss.

These are just a few amazing stories in this issue that remind us what makes Carter County what it is today, the greatest place on earth to live.

We hope you enjoy this issue, and if you know of anyone that would make a great story, please let me know at delaney.scalf@elizabethton. com.

Staff General Manager DELANEY SCALF delaney.scalf@elizabethton.com Editorial Director Rozella Hardin rozella.hardin@elizabethton.com Human Resources BRANDY TRIVETT brandy.trivett@elizabethton.com Customer Service Kathy Scalf kathy.scalf@elizabethton.com Operations Manager Scott SCALF scott.scalf@elizabethton.com Marketing Consultant JOYCE BARTLETT joyce.bartlett@elizabethton.com LINDA JENKINS linda.jenkins@elizabethton.com Copy Editor JANIE MCKINNEY janie.mckinney@elizabethton.com

Star Correspondents Nic Miller Sports IVAN SANDERS ivan.sanders@elizabethton.com Composing ROBIN JOHNSON robin.johnson@elizabethton.com Contributing Photographers Larry Souders

Delaney Scalf General Manager 4

ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES

FOOD

6 Preston Benfield

26 W. Elk Nutrition

Following in their footsteps...

10 Have You Been Spotted

Check out these photos from area events

12 Upcoming events

Plan ahead for these favorite events.

13 Why Carter County

18 Wes Johnson

Providing a healthy alternative to fast food

Like father, like son....

21 Why I Love Carter County

Fletcher’s Homemade

LIVING

30 Highlander BBQ

Will surely bring a huge smile

33 Dinner is all rolled up Chicken, ham, and Swiss Roulades

22 The Sorrells 14 Amber Clawson

Making Memories.....

Just a girl and her horse.

Carter County Living ARTS SHOPPING LIVING FEATURE S FOOD

On the Cover

Spring 2021

Making Memor The Sorrells

The daily grind — it’s tiring, it’s boring, and for most, it becomes such a way of life that by the time retirement rolls around it’s too late to enjoy doing anything else as time has passed by like sands in the hourglass on life.

5

ies

Following in the ir Footsteps...

Preston Benfield Just a girl and her horse...

Amber Clawso n

Following in their footsteps...

Roan Mountain’s Preston Benfield works on the melody of one of his songs on the front porch.

6

Preston Benfield draws inspiration for his music from legends like Haggard, Whitley

I

f you were looking to hear a country tune while in Carter County, you probably wouldn’t have to go far as it is one of the most popular genres of music in our area today.

And sure, you may be able to hear a Kenny Chesney song from a speaker or a Luke Bryan hit on the radio, but one Carter County resident may be able to provide a live rendition of these anthems.

Preston Benfield, a graduate of Cloudland High School, is an upand-coming country music artist in the area who has taken his musical talent and turned it from a hobby into something bigger.

“When I was about 12 or 13, I really got into Merle Haggard. I started listening to his music and eventually progressed into singing,

* Story by Nic Miller & Photos by Larry N. Souders * which has led me to here and now.”

But he wasn’t always a country music performer. Benfield actually started out singing a different, yet similar, genre of music.

“A friend of mine, Logan, and I actually started a bluegrass band in high school known as ‘Real Steel’ but eventually switched over to country music.

“I made the switch mainly because there is more of an audience for country music. I still enjoy bluegrass but it’s a bit smaller of an audience.”

Having performed for an audience several times, Benfield said that one of the greatest aspects of singing on stage would be the adrenaline rush he gets being in front of a crowd.

“I played sports in high school,

Benfield also enjoys spending time with his dog Clint, a Bloodhound, and Maci, a black Lab.

7

When Preston Benfield isn’t making music he loves to spend time working on his pool game surrounded by the many portraits of Country Music legends like this photo of Merle Haggard.

ton Benfield stic guitar, Pres ou ac n ea m a g in bass, and the On top of play electric guitar, s, um dr e” bl sa record somealso plays “pas acks ready to tr n te ve ha to s dobro. He hope near future. ry ve e th time in

Preston Benfie ld, a 2017 grad uate of Cloud pursued a care land High Scho er in music w ol, has hile he was at State University tending East Te ’s Country Mus nn essee ic Studies.

8

so it’s almost the same feeling as being in front of a crowd on Friday nights. Looking out into the crowd and seeing that the audience is enjoying themselves is a great feeling and in turn, makes me feel good.”

As mentioned before, Benfield grew up listening to Merle Haggard, and his songs today reflect the impact of a country music legend on his life.

“Merle is one of the best to ever do it, and I guess you could say that he is who I based my style of writing for my original songs off of. Along with him, I also draw some inspirations from older artists such as Keith Whitley and Hank Williams Sr.” Speaking of his original works, Benfield said that out of his selection of written pieces, a song that has not been released is one of his favorites so far.

“I’ve got one song that a friend helped me write called ‘It Don’t Feel Like Home’ that was written a while back but hasn’t been recorded yet. I’m excited to finish that one up and hear the final

product.”

Along with his original works, Benfield also performs covers of various country hits, saying, “Merle is my favorite artist, but when I’m doing covers, my favorite artists to cover would have to be Keith Whitley or Randy Travis.”

Benfield says that he hasn’t been able to do much performing in recent months, but that is set to change in the upcoming weeks.

“I actually just got my band together, and we’re going to be performing pretty soon at The Station at 19E here in Roan Mountain. I’m excited to go back and perform. It’s always a great time.”

So don’t forget to check your calendars for Benfield’s upcoming dates because this is one artist whose performance you do not want to miss.

Preston Benfield has many different guitars in his home, but he finds himself coming back to this Syairi acoustic more times than not. He says he loves the sounds that come from it.

9

SP

You’ve Been

TTED!

Photos by Ivan Sanders & Larry N. Souders

David Hicks

Tom Little

Carroll Buck

Lloyd Yelton

Jeff Reed

Brenda Guinn & Kodiak

10

Mayor Patty Woodby

SP

You’ve Been

Cathy Sanders and Katie Potter

Saharra McKinney

TTED!

Rita Vonglis and Carter Birdsong

Matt Fox

Elijah Birdsong and Kallista DePrimo

11

Photos by Ivan Sanders & Larry N. Souders

Megan and Hayes Ellis

Preston Darling

Judd Howser

Olivia Vaughn

Bryce VanHuss

UPCOMING EVENTS Plan ahead with fun happenings across Carter County

*** All 2021 special events may be affected by Covid-19 related changes to program schedules, along with visitor safety considerations. Please contact the park for updated information *** Saturday, April 10 Roan Mountain Bird Nerd Club 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - Meet at Park Headquarters - Price: •$0.00 / Person •$5.00 / Attendee + Donation •$10.00 / Attendee + Donation •$15.00 / Attendee + Donation •$25.00 / Attendee + Donation •Do you have an interest in birding, working with birds of prey, or being involved in an outdoor group with a common interest in nature?

•Join us for an informational meeting for the Roan Mountain Bird Nerd Club. This group will train members on the basics of birding, leading birding hikes, and volunteer experience with working with birds of prey at our owl aviary.

•Membership and participation is free, but registration is required (for now) to ensure we don’t exceed group size limitations.

Come on out and get involved! CDC recommedations apply, including, social distancing, and mask-wearing.

Saturday, April 10 Carter Mansion Celebration - 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Meet at: Historic John and Landon Carter Mansion 1031 Broad St. Elizabethton, TN 37643 Join us as we celebrate the oldest frame house in Tennessee, and the historically prominent Carter family. Travel back to the 1780’s and tour the Carter Mansion. Witness living history reenactors demonstrating aspects of 18th century life, and see local craftsmen showcasing traditional skills.

Free Admission Saturday, April 17 Annual Plant Auction - 9 a.m. - 12 noon - Meet at: Park Visitor Center. An exciting array of unusual ornamental & native perennials, trees and shrubs will be auctioned during this event. A great opportunity to add new species to your landscape! Sponsored by The UT Extension Service, E. Tenn. Nursery Assoc., and the Eliz/Carter Co. Chamber of Commerce.

Free Admission Friday, April 23 - Sunday, April 25 Spring Rock Climbing Workshop - 7 p.m. - Meet at: Cumberland Mountain State Park Recreation Lodge. Price is $60.00 -

Register for the event. ***NOTE*** THIS PROGRAM IS BASED OUT OF CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN STATE PARK, CROSSVILLE, TN. ALL TIMES ARE CENTRAL TIME. Event Description: - Friday we will start with a meet and greet at the Rec Lodge around 7:00 pm CST. We will cover outdoor climbing basics, including knot tying and belay technique.

- Saturday we will meet at the Rec Lodge parking lot at 8:30 am CST to carpool to the Black Mountain climbing area. Once we get to Black Mountain, there is a short hike to the climbing location from the trailhead (1/2 mile). A number of top rope climbs and a 40 ft. rappel will be set up for the day.

Climbs range in difficulty from beginner to intermediate/advanced.- Sunday morning we will meet back at the Rec Lodge parking lot at 8:30 am CST to carpool to the Black Mountain for another day of climbing. The day ends around 3:00 pm CST, but you are free to leave earlier as needed (please let one of the staff know if you plan to leave early). **The Black Mountain Climbing area does not have restroom facilities, please be prepared for each day. We will be practicing Leave No Trace.

Age restrictions:18 Years of Age and Older Price: $60 - instruction and gear for the weekend Accommodations for Cumberland Mountain State Park: Camping/Cabin reservations - make them online at https://tnstateparks.com/ parks/cumberland-mountain Please make your camping/cabin reservations ahead of time.

Food will not be provided during the course of this workshop. Pack your breakfast, lunch, and snacks for each day.

For dinner, we encourage you to bring your own or plan to eat at the Homestead Harvest Restaurant on the park.

Cancellation Deadline/Refund Policy: Participants may cancel no later than Thursday, April 15, 5:00 PM with a 50% refund. After April 15th, 5:00 PM there will be no refunds for participant cancellation.

Weather Cancellation Policy: There is no alternate date. In the event of a weather related cancellation 4/23/21 or prior we will offer a full refund. In the event of a weather related cancellation 4/23/21 or later, we will consider refunds on a case-by-case basis.

Saturday, May 1 Guided Spring Hike at Hampton

Creek Cove S.N.A. - 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Meet at Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area Parking Lot - Register for the event.

Price: •$3.00 / Donation •$5.00 / Donation •$10.00 / Donation •$20.00 / Donation Hike Leaders: Monica Johnson, Park Manager Roan Mountain State Robin Peeler, TSP East TN Area Manager Celebrate Tennessee Natural Areas’ 50th anniversary with us on a Spring Hike along the Birchfield Trail. The hike will be an easy to moderate 3-miles round trip. We will stop for lunch half way. Bring a sack lunch, snacks and water to drink. Don’t forget your CAMERA! The Birchfield Trail follows the Left Prong through pasture and forest. The trail traverses a northern hardwood forest community on mid and upper slopes where yellow birch, striped maple, northern red oak, and tulip popular are dominant species.

Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing as the temps tend to be chilly this time of year in the mountains.

The hike is FREE, but registration is required for this event. Donations are accepted for this event.

Directions for Hampton Creek Cove: 760 Hampton Creek Rd, Roan Mountain, TN 37687 From Elizabethton, Tennessee, take U.S. Highway 321/19E through Hampton, Tennessee and then continue on 19E to the Town of Roan Mountain. From the Town of Roan Mountain, take State Route 143 south toward Roan Mountain State Park. You will immediately cross a bridge over the Doe River. Just after that bridge, turn left onto Stratton Street.

At the first stop sign, turn right, then bear left at the big curve on West Street and travel by the old commercial district buildings of Roan Mountain. Just past these old buildings, take the first right on Old Highway 143, then take the first left turn onto the bridge that crosses the creek (across from the old school building), and follow it to Hampton Creek Cove. The parking area is on the left not far past Gray’s Chapel Church, approximately three miles from the Town of Roan Mountain. Hampton Creek Cove (tn.gov) Saturday, May 8 Bird Walk - 8 a.m. - ? - Meet at: Visitor Center Parking Area. Meet other birders and naturalists at Sycamore Shoals for a morning of birding during the migratory season.

12

Saturday, May 15 27th Annual Siege of Fort Watauga - 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - It is 1776 and the frontier is ablaze with war. Join us as 200 Colonial and Native reenactors present this dramatic retelling of the Cherokee attack brought on the settlers of the Watauga valley.

Visit the living history camps, shop with period vendors, and witness battle re-enactments both days. Hear the rattle of muskets, smell the campfire smoke and see history come to life at the Siege of Fort Watauga. Contact the park for a detailed schedule.

Free Admission Sunday, May 16 27th Annual Siege of Fort Watauga - 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - It is 1776 and the frontier is ablaze with war. Join us as 200 Colonial and Native reenactors present this dramatic retelling of the Cherokee attack brought on the settlers of the Watauga valley.

Visit the living history camps, shop with period vendors, and witness battle re-enactments both days. Hear the rattle of muskets, smell the campfire smoke and see history come to life at the Siege of Fort Watauga. Contact the park for a detailed schedule.

Free Admission Friday, June 4 Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals - 7:30 p.m. - Meet at: Fort Watauga Amphitheater. - Register for the event.

Performances begin at 7:30 PM, Friday & Saturday, June 4-5 & 11-12, Thursday, Friday, & Saturday, June 17-19 & 24-26 Tennessee’s official outdoor drama is presented by local performers against the backdrop of Fort Watauga. See the Revolution as told by the Overmountain Men. These settlers formed an independent government, made treaties with the Cherokee, defended their homes, and fought a British army at the epic battle of King’s Mountain. Bleacher seating is available in the Amphitheater. Doors open at 6:00 PM. The concession stand opens at 6:30 PM. For ticket pricing, purchasing, and discount information please visit www. thelibertydrama.com Sunday, June 6 - June 27 Summer Art Show - Visitor Center Operating Hours. Meet at: Park Visitor Center.

Meet-the-Artist Awards Reception: Sunday, June 6: 1:30 - 4:00 pmThis multimedia exhibit is two art shows in one: “18th Annual Judged show” and the “26th Annual Watauga Valley Art League Member show”.

Please join us for this popular summer event!

Star Photo/Joyce Bartlett

Lisa Fletcher

Why Carter County? - Fletcher’s Homemade 1. What made you choose Carter County and Elizabethton?

I grew up in this area, attended Little Milligan in Butler and graduated from Hampton High.

After college I moved to Washington State. It was a wonderful adventure but I always felt a tug to come back home. When I decided I wanted to open my own business, it was an easy decision that this was the only place to do it. I grew up loving the old downtown in Elizabethton and the covered bridge; it was a childhood dream to be part of it somehow. If by chance my hard work brings me any success, I want that to be a benefit to my home in East Tennessee. Quilting is a proud tradition in Appalachia and I’m honored to be a small part of this heritage. I think of this every day working in my shop. My mamaw’s quilts hang within sight to keep me grounded and focused.

2. What is the purpose of your business?

Quilting is an artform. It can be old timey or modern depending on your choice of fabric and

pattern. I am obsessed with the art of quilting in all its variations and it is an honor sharing that with my community. I am very fortunate to have talented instructors like Glenda Kuelper, who teaches quilting projects; as well as Donna Horowitz, who leads classes focusing on handmade clothing and accessories. Also, I am a lifelong fabric snob, so having a shop with high quality quilting cottons and hand dyed batiks is essential for producing our artistic creations. If it’s worth our time, it’s worth using the best fabrics to bring our imagination to life. Our quilts will be around long after we are gone.

3. How long in you been in business?

Fletcher’s Homemade opened up August 1, 2017.

4. What makes you different?

Small independent quilt shops have a soul that is lacking in large chain fabric stores. Fletcher’s Homemade strives to be a friendly, encouraging and welcoming space for those who sew or would

13

like to learn. No one person knows it all and everyone has something special to offer the group.

We learn, we sew, we laugh and we have a good time here.

5. Franchise or independent?

Fletcher’s Homemade is proud to be an independent quilt shop.

6. Impact on Carter County?

It is the mission of Fletcher’s Homemade to enhance the appreciation of sewing arts in the community. Along with various sewing classes, we offer long arm quilting service. Unfinished quilt tops (whether made recently or many years ago) can be professionally quilted as a piece of functional art to be cherished for generations to come.

Let’s keep sewing going!

— Lisa Fletcher from Fletcher’s Homemade 510 East Elk Ave., Elizabethton TN www.FletchersHomemade.com

Amber Clawson gives her daughter a ride around the ring.

Just a girl and her horse...

Clawson realizing a childhood dream of barrel racing

T

* Story by Ivan Sanders & Photos Contributed

he closest most people want to come to mounting a galloping horse is those horses that are found outside of grocery stores where one can drop a quarter into the slot and get a good two-minute ride without the fear of being bucked off.

Then there are those individuals who live to mount a steed and take a relaxing Amber Clawson was encouraged by her husband to ride over numerous trails that can be found throughout Carter County enjoying a beautipursue her childhood dream of barrel racing.

14

ful day with the sun cutting through the thick foliage that graces the trees during the spring and summer months.

However, there is one final breed of people who love the heart-pounding exhilaration that comes from gathering with a group of competitors challenging not only each other but pushing one’s self and their horse harder and faster than ever before.

One such person is Carter County’s Amber Clawson who turned a dream of barrel

racing that she had since she was a very young girl into a reality once she turned 24-years-old thanks to her husband who encouraged her to chase that dream and turn it into a reality by searching for a barrel horse.

Proclaiming to be a late bloomer to the sport with a chuckle thrown in, Clawson turned to a dear friend of hers, Diana Blevins Hilton, who owns Double C Western Wear, and the two went to work searching for that perfect horse to help Clawson fulfill her dreams.

That day came when the pair came across an 18-year-old gelding that went by the name of “Jackie’s Little Gem.” “Gem” as he would be called for short soon turned the spark that Clawson had as a young child into a blazing flame and gave her the confidence that she needed to begin running barrels.

Now that Clawson had found her ride, she soon discovered that to be the best barrel rider took extensive training not only for the horse but the rider.

“Goodness, I feel that the training never truly stops,” Clawson said. “If it isn’t an exercise to better yourself, then it is an exercise to better your horse. Barrel racing is one of those sports where the time that you put in is returned to you 10 fold in competition.”

Clawson rides a few times a week just to keep her horse in his best shape but further added that if someone had a young horse, much more attention to detail is required.

Aside from riding the horses, they must have daily attention such as feeding, grooming and cleaning their stalls.

The time and attention must be weighed before tackling riding to the level that Clawson is involved in because as in Clawson’s own words, “These are all things that are a revolving door and

they happen every single day — it’s a true commitment in making a couple of 15-ish second runs on a weekend.”

So one might ask what exactly is barrel racing?

According to Clawson, the sport is simply you and your horse racing against the clock.

The rider said she always tries to do something better with each run that she makes down the alleyway whether that is leaving the second barrel standing after knocking on her last two runs or riding in hard asking her horse for more speed.

Clawson measures her success more by how the run makes her feel which is usually pretty darn good!

She said one of the fun facts about her competing is that she has never won a buckle and that truly is something that her heart longs for. One day she knows that will come having placed many times and her current ride is showing more promise every time she mounts up.

The competition arenas for Clawson are found anywhere from Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina as she stays pretty close to home since her family owns a business and raises cattle as well as being parents to a two-year-old little gal with these making up a large portion of her priorities currently.

From a perspective of finding the right horse to compete in barrel racing, Clawson said that was a broad subject that many hours could be spent on explaining bloodlines, confirmation, athletic ability, and so much more.

However, with the fact that all these help, some of the smallest horses may be the fastest or perhaps a world champion could come from that long shot that

Amber Clawson and her horse give it their best effort in circling a barrel.

Say Cheese! Amber Clawson and her horse take a moment to show off for the camera.

15

was saved from a kill pen.

Clawson gave her assessment on what she thought made the right horse for barrel racing saying, “To be honest, I think while we strive to find that one that is really going to be something special, but if we don’t give them 100% of our time to prepare them for competition, and then 150% of our trust when we send them out on the pattern then we aren’t giving that horse a chance to reach its full potential.

“A great barrel horse is one that you can fully trust.”

Just like other sports, barrel racing presents challenges and the opportunity for injury and Clawson admits that she has not been shielded from scary moments while in the saddle saying, “If you are gonna ride, eventually you are going to fall.”

Consider riding a horse as fast as it can possibly go and then asking that horse to make 180 degree turns as quickly as it possibly can.

Clawson said there are a lot of things that can go wrong which also makes up part of the thrill of the ride.

A handful of falls have graced Clawson’s career, but probably one of the worse ones that she experienced that really rattled her cage a little more than the others was on a practice run at the Walters State Ag Center in White Pine, Tenn.

She had a great run going however she was running a different bit and saddle and when she tried to stop her mare at the end of the run, the mare zigged but Clawson didn’t zag causing her to impact the ground hard.

Not long afterward her accident, she came across an article about a lady her age that suffered a frontal lobe injury while barrel racing and lost her life.

Since that time, Clawson started to wear a helmet and has ever since seeing the article.

When asked if she could give some important advice to possibly another young lady that had an interest in following in her footsteps, her response was that she would tell them that barrel racing is the most rewarding and humbling sport all at the same time.

She also added that probably her best advice would be to never be afraid or embarrassed to ask a question.

Clawson clarified the advice by stating that she had wasted a lot of time trying the “fake it until you make it” method but when that comes to this sport it just doesn’t work.

“When I’m helping gals that are younger or less experienced I always tell them to ASK ME QUESTIONS,” Clawson said emphatically. “If I had it to do over I would have asked way more questions in those first few years. I probably would have won that buckle by now!”

She added that she would also help others by telling them not to let the hard days define them and to trust their horse.

Clawson also wanted to remind others that decide to follow in her path that chores seem like an opportunity instead of an obligation and what one puts in is exactly what they will get out of it when it comes to horses. If a horse is given the best, they will in return give you their best.

When it comes to challenges in the sport, most of Clawson’s are definitely within her own head because she admits that she has a tendency to second guess herself and her horse.

To offset that she makes sure to pray each time before she makes a run — praying for safety for herself and her

16

Amber Clawson doing two things that bring her much joy — spending time with her daughter and riding a horse.

Amber Clawson rounds the last barrel during a competition.

horse which helps to calm and steady her as well as keeping her from becoming a nervous mess before her run stating, “These animals have so much power and so much can go wrong, but if we trust them fully, so much can go right!”

Another event that Clawson dabbles in is roping. She said if she could choose to start competing in another it would be in reined cowhorse or cutting, which amazes her.

When asked who provides her support and backing, the answer was a firm “Family, family, family!!”

“My mom and my husband have been my long-time biggest fans,” Clawson said. “They have spent many nights in a horse trailer with me celebrating or helping me through disappointment.

“Now that I have a little girl, the bog shows are a little harder to navigate, but everyone is so willing to help!”

For Clawson, a family doesn’t just stop with one’s real family when it comes to barrel racing.

People are met along the way that

Just horsing around! Amber Clawson knows that both horse and rider have to have complete trust in each other to be successful in barrel racing.

one can trust to provide a helping hand. In the process, those turn into friends and eventually become more

like family.

Clawson closed by saying, “It is a community really of a bunch of pre-

17

cious people with the same goal and the same deep love for a really special animal.”

Wesley Johnson and his father Gary Johnson inspect the motor of their 400 small block 1966 Chevy Chevelle SS dragster.

Like father, like son...

Father-son duo use drag racing to build relationships between themselves and others

I

f you’ve ever been to Thunder Valley right beside Bristol Motor Speedway, you’ve experienced the thrill that comes with watching a good old-fashioned drag race.

However, spectating and actually participating in a quartermile, straight-line race are two different animals.

Wesley Johnson, a native of Elizabethton, is someone who knows exactly what both feelings are. Growing up and being around classic cars as well as having a father who was a car enthusiast, Johnson began to fall in love with

* Story by Nic Miller & Photos by Larry N. Souders we go to win as well as to see the sport. some folks that we maybe haven’t “Dad was a hot-rodder from years ago and we used to go to the seen in a while and to make memories.” track a lot, so I grew up around But don’t be fooled. Being cars my whole life and just decided on the strip isn’t just something to pursue a hobby that I very that Johnson does on a whim. It’s much enjoy.” a hobby that he has put a ton of But it’s not just about the racing for Johnson, it’s also about the time and effort into.

“So we started off by takrelationships and memories that ing part in the bracket series are made at the track. at Bristol which is home to both “When we go to the track, automatic and straight drive cars, it’s always a family trip. But it’s and after our series would finish not just my family, there’s up, we would go watch a group a ‘track family’, people you’ve of guys who strictly drive stick gotten to know and always see cars known as the ‘Classic Gear when you’re there.

Jammers’.

“Everyone goes to win, but 18

“One day the car we used broke down and I decided to get a stick shift, and eventually joined the Gear Jammers. It’s something that I do not regret at all and should have done many years prior.”

When asked about the vehicle that he uses on the track, Johnson said, “I usually run with a ’55 Chevrolet or my ’79 Malibu, but I started out in a yellow Chevelle back in 2002.”

Throughout the years, Johnson has had many memorable experiences, but one that he holds the dearest is the time that he faced off against his father Gary.

When Wesley Johnson (back row right) heads to the drag strip it’s a family affair. The entire Johnson family makes most of the trips to the track with him. Pictured in front of the ’55 Chevy are (L-R) Josie Johnson, Nola Greenwell, Crosby Greenwell and Hayden Johnson.

Standing from left are Adrian Johnson, Stephen Brickey, Patsy Johnson, Gary Johnson, Alison Johnson and Wesley Johnson.

“I pulled up to the line and looked over and saw dad sitting in the lane to the left of me. The car that was supposed to square off against him wouldn’t start and I was next in line so we went at it.

“It was a great moment. We got a few pictures of us on the line and actually racing beside each other. It’s one of those things that you don’t get to experience much so it meant a lot.”

But just like almost everything else this past year, there were not many good times to experience on the track due to the global pandemic that shut down many activities in 2020.

“We weren’t able to go race because of COVID, which not only meant that we couldn’t race, it also meant that all the great times we usually had and all the fun we had off of the strip with our track family wouldn’t get to happen.

“But gladly things are starting to get better and we’re excited to get back to the track whenever we’re able to.”

Johnson, along with his father, has found their niche with

Wesley Johnson (left) and his father Gary Johnson pull the hood off their 1955 Chevy, the newest car in the Johnson Racing stable.

Together

145239

WE THRIVE

Skilled nursing care for higher quality of life.

423.542.4133 • LifeCareCenterofElizabethton.com 1641 Hwy. 19 E. • Elizabethton, TN 37643

19

drag racing, and in their closing statements, they both shared one thing they have learned over the years being involved with the sport.

“If I could say one thing to recap, it would be that it’s not all about winning, but about doing what you love and making the most of every opportunity you’re given while enjoying your time with those around you.”

Three of the cars that make up the Johnson Racing team. From the left Stephen Brickey and the yellow Chevy Chevelle SS, Wesley Johnson with the orange ’55 Chevy, and Gary Johnson with the blue ’79 Chevrolet Malibu.

A street-level view of the 1955 Chevy, with a 447 small block engine, in the driveway of Johnson Racing.

Wesley Johnson and his father Gary Johnson work on the Holly carburetor in their 400 small block 1966 Chevy Chevelle SS dragster. Wesley has owned and been racing this car since 2004.

Stephen Brickey poses with the yellow 1966 Chevy Chevelle SS from Johnson Racing.

20

Why I Love Carter County Bio: • Born in Elizabethton • Grades 1-12 in Carter County School System, graduating from Unaka High School in 1976 • Earned certification at Herman Robinson Vocational School in Drafting in 1978 • Worked at Elizabethton Electric System from 1980-1994 • Elected as Carter County Trustee in 1994 to present • Recognized as a Tennessee Certified Public Administrator • Son of Robert Lewis and Janice Gentry • Married my wife, Kim Davis Lewis, in 1982, and have two children: a son, Chad Lewis and wife, Brittany; a daughter, Andrea Lewis; and three grandchildren, Gracie, Carter and Millie

my entire extended family over the years. It was always a treat when we camped in June so we could go to the top of the Roan Summit and see the rhododendrons in bloom. Second, we love to go to Watauga Lake and enjoy our time spent in the summer. Fishing and relaxing is what I like best.

3. Do you think living in Carter County changed you in any way?

No. I am not changed in any way because I have lived here all my life.

I am, however, a person who is aware of the fact that by growing up in Carter County, things were instilled in me by my family, friends, neighbors, teachers and my church family that help me be the person I am today.

4. Favorite time of year?

We are blessed to have all four seasons to enjoy in Carter County.

Springtime is special because everything is coming back to life. The flowers are blooming and the trees are sprouting new growth.

The summer is full of warm weather and nice evenings to enjoy at the lake with the family. The fall is so beautiful in the mountains with all the colors changing. In winter, we are sometimes blessed with a beautiful snowfall. I guess you can tell, I don’t have a favorite. I love them all.

1. What makes Carter County unique by comparison to other places?

Carter County is the most beautiful place to live and raise a family. One of the biggest differences today is the people of Carter County. The folks around here are hardworking, dedicated people who help each other in times of need. Not only are the folks wonderful but we live in a community where we can be safe and take in all the natural beauty of the mountains and streams in our county. In addition, our TVA lake is the cleanest and most beautiful lake in the state. We can enjoy many outside activities including the Tweetie Trail and the local state parks. We are the only city in East Tennessee with a Covered Bridge to admire and it’s right here in town.

5. First time visitors recommendation not to miss.

First if you go downtown, make sure to visit the local shops and eateries and walk to the Covered Bridge for a picture and the local Veterans War Memorial. Second, I would take a hike on the Appalachian Trail.

You could go fishing or take a raft ride on the Watauga River. If you would like a more relaxing day, rent a boat at a local marina and enjoy your day. There is so much we can do in Carter County. The cost is very reasonable and the memories will last a lifetime.

2. What is your favorite place to visit in Carter County?

I actually have two places I love to visit.

First, Roan Mountain State Park has been a place where my family and I have visited many times. We’ve enjoy camping with

Why Do You Love Carter County?

Randal Lewis

Is it the wonderful natural resources? How about the historic downtown district?

Perhaps it’s the people who make up our community?

Whatever the reason, we want to know why you love it here. Tell us why you love Carter County and you could be featured in an upcoming edition of Carter County Living. Just send us a message telling us why you love Carter County.

You can reach us by email at news@elizabethton.com or you can mail it to 300 N. Sycamore St., Elizabethton, TN 37643.

21

Making memories...

Damen holds a lizard while Amanda lends an arm to a macaw during one of their stops on a sunny beach.

22

The Sorrells sit in front of a pack of elephants at an Elephant Rescue Park in Thailand.

Sorrells travels opening the door to the world

T

he daily grind — it’s tiring, it’s boring, and for most, it becomes such a way of life that by the time retirement rolls around it’s too late to enjoy doing anything else as time has passed by like sands in the hourglass on life.

But imagine as a child being able to be awoken for school and instead of getting ready to spend the day inside a white, four-wall school

* Story by Ivan Sanders & Photos by Larry N. Souders classroom you find yourself sitting on the sands of a beach or awaken in another country that only others read about in their geography or social studies books.

For most that is only a dream as having such an opportunity takes some sacrifice of things that many don’t want to endure.

However, a Carter County family has made the ultimate decision to escape the ordinary and living with

the philosophy that less is more as they sold their house to have the opportunity to travel the world and provide an unforgettable education to their homeschooled or should it be said world schooled children.

Donald Sorrell and Amanda Sorrell along with their children, 11-year-old Damen and eight-yearold Addox, have spent the time preparing to travel the world to provide an unimaginable education

23

for their children and drawing closer as a family.

The family was inspired after they made their first trip abroad to Thailand and realized they absolutely loved the travel life.

Donald and Amanda decided to work hard to set up their business, Pioneer Tattoo Company, to run fully without requiring their presence full time so they could travel more.

They also made the decision to

The Sorrell family stands in front of the small cabin they now live in after selling off 80 percent of their possessions to enjoy traveling.

Sailing the open waters offers many beautiful evenings like this one experienced by the Sorrell family.

downsize their belongings by 80 percent which for many would be very difficult to do.

Included in that decision was to sell their cabin and move into a small tiny home like one might see on television.

The process itself was something that occurred overnight as the Sorrells took almost two years from the time they decided they wanted to travel full time. During that time they fixed up their large cabin and added a small addition to their tiny cabin while splitting the properties and selling the larger cabin.

With the sale of the larger cabin, the Sorrells were able to pay off the rest of their debt which again would allow more time to travel and less time of having to be at their business to work and pay for things.

According to Amanda, her husband came up with the idea to sail so the family spent one week during the summer of 2020 with a super nice couple that they met on Air BnB. The couple runs a charter business on their boat so the Sorrells spent time sailing with them where they fell in love with the idea.

As far as places visited so far, the family has made it to Thailand,

they look forward to each new trip they take as a family.

When asked about their favorite experience to date, Amanda said that by far both boys truly enjoyed the day spent at the Elephant Nature Park in Thailand.

The park is a nature reserve that rescues elephants in Thailand that have been used in begging for money on the streets, logging, or other tourism.

Elephants are rescued and given a life that they would have had in the wild.

While visiting the park, the Sorrells were able to feed the elephants, walk with them, and bathe them. In the overall experience, it was the family’s favorite trip to date.

In the family’s first experience in sailing, the before mentioned couple who had the charter business invited the Sorrells to join them on their sail from Marathon, Florida to Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.

The couple was moving their three boats to Puerto Rico to start a new charter business there.

It was a no-brainer for the Sorrells who were wanting to gain more sailing experience as they wanted to sail full time.

Cozumel, Mexico, Grand Cayman Islands, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica for their travel abroad.

They have also visited several places in the United States as well as several trips to Canada, where Amanda’s family is from. Canada was actually the first country that Donald and the boys had visited other than America.

When it comes to education, Amanda said, “I think our kids being able to see first hand how people live in other countries and cultures have really opened their eyes. We are very fortunate to be able to homeschool them and world school them to give them a new perspective of how others live.”

She further added that the experience is teaching their children to be grateful for the things that they have and how to be kind to everyone despite the differences in cultures.

Adaptability is one of the main things both kids have learned as they have been exposed to new foods, learning new cultures and new languages. Their mother felt that in the long run, it has taught them to appreciate the things they have and to appreciate having fewer things as

24

The trip was an ocean crossing of 980 nautical miles and was supposed to take two weeks if the wind was in the Sorrells’ direction but the trip lasted a total of 21 days on the boat while the voyage actually wasn’t completed as an emergency stop had to be made in Manzanillo Bay, the Dominic Republic after they encountered a really bad storm where their sail ripped for the second time.

A plane trip was in store as the Sorrells flew out of the Dominican on day 21 to meet up with their friends in Costa Rica. The boats finally made it to Puerto Rico on day 28.

The question was posed to Amanda if that particular trip or any other had made the family step back and say is this really worth it to be on the water, facing storms, and possibly a case of homesickness thrown in.

Just so happened that not making it to Puerto Rico was just the start of the story previously shared.

“So on this particular trip, we had many, many things that happened,” Amanda shared. “If you’ve heard of Murphy’s Law, what could go wrong, did go wrong!

“Long story short, to give an idea of what went wrong was the engine stopped working, the steering

went out, almost ran out of diesel and water, headsail ripped, fridges stopped working, no radar to know if boats were coming to our direction at night, the wind was never in our favor and then we hit a really bad storm with 12 foot seas.”

Facing all of the difficulties was a test of the Sorrells limits beyond explanation.

It made them question many times as to whether they had made the right decision to take their family on the adventure. They learned very quickly that they needed to let go and just go with the flow as there was no getting out of it.

The family was pretty scared through the storm but finally made the safe passage to the nearest port in the Dominican on the border of Haiti.

During the ordeal, the children did amazing according to Amanda as neither she nor Donald allowed them to see their parents see their times of worry or despair so as not to worry them.

And even through these experiences, the family never felt so alive and in the moment as they did during those 21 days on the boat.

When asked if their experience so far has drawn the family together, Amanda said, “I think it drew us all closer in the fact that we had successfully pushed our fear limits. My husband and I both agreed this was the scariest thing we have both ever endured in our entire lives.

“It definitely brought us closer in the fact that we learned to rely on each other for emotional support in times of despair. We learned how truly adaptable our boys are in any situation we throw at them as well.”

While Donald and Amanda have not used their tattoo experience abroad, they have taken time to do some work in different states that they have visited in America including Microblading by Amanda.

The couple both got a traditional hand poke tattoo while they were in Thailand which they love.

Prior to their trip to Costa Rica, which was their longest to date, they typically have only traveled on trips for a couple of weeks. While the family enjoys traveling, they said there is nothing like coming home to the mountains after traveling.

There are some plans in the works for a possible longer trip abroad to Asia for about four to six months, but the family also wants to wait until everything calms down more from the pandemic.

Enough couldn’t be said about their family and a great crew at Pioneer Tattoo to whom the Sorrells are grateful for keeping the business running while they are traveling.

Amanda was asked if she and her family would recommend this type of adventure to others.

“We would absolutely recommend everyone try at least one travel abroad adventure,” she said. “It will change your life. It will broaden your horizons, open your mind and hearts to things you never knew.”

One of the main things that seem to come up when people ask the family about traveling to other countries is the preconceived notions that it isn’t safe.

But contrary to those beliefs, the Sorrells can honestly say that they have met some of the nicest people ever while on their travels. People in

The Sorrells have their photo taken with a stingray.

With a beautiful backdrop behind them, the Sorrell family continues to be blessed to take in such scenery during their travels.

other countries absolutely love to see Americans or any other nationality who want to come to their country and learn about their culture as Amanda said that the people are so friendly and so helpful.

In closing, Amanda attempted to put into words what their adventures have meant to their family.

“I can’t explain in words how travel

25

has changed our lives and the way we view things, Time is valuable and life is short. We want to not waste it on things and make memories with our kids while we can before it is too late.

“Our children won’t remember the things we bought them when they get older but traveling with them will give them the best memories for the rest of their lives”

Owner John Pee stands in front of his new business, W. Elk Nutrition, which is located in the Ingles Shopping Center.

W. Elk Nutrition providing a healthy alternative to fast food

L

* Story & Photos by Ivan Sanders

iving in a fast-paced society, times have changed from when a family got up early and had a big breakfast together before setting out for school or a new day’s work.

Many are lucky if they can swallow a bowl of cereal or perhaps even catch lunch as it seems to be run, run, run everywhere one turns.

Fortunately for these types of people, others are beginning to look out for the nutritional part of the day as doctors advise that everyone should start out their day with a good breakfast and to not miss any meals whether that entails smaller portions over several sittings during the day.

A business that recently opened in Carter County can provide a way that everyone has the opportunity to meet their day with a nutrition-based shake that will serve as a meal replacement ensuring that individuals will still get the calories, proteins, carbs, and vitamins they need all in one drink.

W. Elk Nutrition opened its doors to what has been an overwhelming response from the local community as customers have been discovering a new way to start their day or get them through the late afternoon dredge before getting off work.

Located in the Ingles Shopping Center, the business was something that owner John Pee wasn’t sure how it would be received but has been overwhelmed by its early success.

Pee, who hails from Mississippi, got into the business thanks to some

friends from his home state who had worked with Pee for 10 years decided to get away from the business they were involved in and started to open stores in the Knoxville area over a year and a half ago experiencing some great success in the market.

Realizing it was time for a change, Pee did what many before him had done as he sold his house, quit his job, and moved to the Knoxville area to learn the ropes, and began scouting locations to open his own business.

That’s when he found Elizabethton.

Looking back over the short time he has been in Carter County, Pee acknowledged it was the perfect fit for both him and his business.

He was in the health club business for about 15 years managing in some big-box settings. That is where he learned the side of the business that is hard to teach and that is customer service even sharing that learning the back stuff is easy but one can’t teach how to properly take care of a customer.

Stepping into the new store, one will quickly find a large open room minus tables and chairs due to health department regulations that don’t allow for sit-down customers due to the restrooms being located where customers must walk through the back kitchen area.

That doesn’t mean friends can’t share a shake or tea together as a couple of standing bars are present allowing time for a quick catch-up.

26

Pee is trying to run the store solo for the time being until he can identify exactly how many employees he may need based on the traffic but waits behind the order counter eager to take care of each one that walks through the door as promptly and quickly as possible.

When asked to describe the nutrition shop, he said that most people, in a nutshell, will say it’s fast food with healthy choices.

The products include a meal-replacement shake with anywhere from 200 to 250 calories, 24 to 27 grams of protein that are low carb and low sugar.

Also on the menu are loaded teas that contain 200 milligrams of caffeine, no sugar, and contains only four carbs. The tea also has B-vitamins, Vitamin C, contains a thermogenic, and is energy focused.

A full blackboard filled with flavors of shakes, coffee, and loaded teas gives customers a wide range of selections that often makes it harder to choose which one to go with as they all sound divine.

Customers who were coming in in a constant stream were sharing they started with one flavor and try a different one each time they visit.

“It’s a good way for people to stop in for breakfast and lunch,” Pee said. “They will have a shake for lunch or breakfast and a tea to sip on for energy throughout the day.

“People have seen weight loss with it and it’s a healthy option instead of your typical fast food.”

Pee added that all the shakes have the different products the shop uses which include protein mixes and a meal-replacement mix that finds its way into all the differ-

ent flavors offered.

Chocolate, vanilla, and peanut butter are the bases and can be mixed or matched to make all the different flavors.

“Someone smarter than me came up with all these flavors to make everything taste as they do. They are delicious and all of them have the same exact calories, carbs, proteins, and everything,” Pee said with a chuckle.

The loaded teas have a few different flavors of ingredients so it is easy to mix and match to come up with different drinks for different flavors.

Teas are sweetened with Stevia to eliminate sugar.

It should be noted that the shakes are intended to be a meal replacement for breakfast or lunch with the anticipation that most people will have a real meal during the evening.

Also, the loaded teas are intended to provide energy to help the consumer make it through the tough part of the day while probably not recommended for drinking in the evening with the amount of caffeine that comes in the drink — unless of course one is a graveyard worker who needs that extra oomph to make it through their shift.

For that reason, the current hours of operation are from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday while being open until 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

The response to the business in its infant stage has been phenomenal as Pee thought he would start out by testing the waters to eliminate the kinks that come with opening a new business but he has been too busy taking care of new customers.

Lucky for Pee, he has some friends that have been able to lend a hand during the craziness of opening the store and working out those kinks.

The main thing for Pee is that the first impression that is made on his customers will be a lasting Mississippi native John Pee is the owner of the W. Elk Nutrition store and says that business has been great since his doors opened.

27

The blackboard on the wall of W. Elk Nutrition lists the key points of nutrition offered by the loaded teas and protein iced coffee sold by the business.

one that will be an open invitation to continually open the door for more of his product.

As far as being a part of a new community, he has been totally been blown away by the reception he has received. Being from Mississippi, the people there are nice according to Pee but being in Carter County has been like elevating his former hometown to another level.

“I did some research before I came here, but until you get here you just don’t know,” Pee said. “This is such a community-based area. A lot of support for local business — it has that feel to it. Everybody seems like they are helping each other around here.”

His clientele so far has been everywhere from teenagers to seniors which broke the model that he saw while training in the Knoxville area. But that has been a good thing.

And even though the business is not a franchise, Pee is either looking to expand out in the Tri-Cities or even assist someone who would have an interest in following in his footsteps.

But for right now, Pee is just excited to be in Carter County and seeing his business meet the needs of a new market.

Chelsey Johnson is set to go after getting her Butterfinger milkshake at W. Elk Nutrition.

Owen Slagle and Kylee Evans stopped by to pick up a flavored tea at W. Elk Nutrition. The two Elizabethton High School students are also working as part of the EHS XQ business program to help store owner John Pee design business cards, flyers, and T-shirts.

The shakes and specialty teas sold by W. Elk Nutrition have many nutritional benefits.

Joy Briggs is all smiles after receiving her Sour Patch tea at W. Elk Nutrition.

28

Customers of all ages have been passing through the doors of W. Elk Nutrition such as Elizabethton High School student Jacob Whitaker.

Hurry - Limited Time Offer!

Risk-based Lending Applies

Northeast Community Credit Union BeMyCU.org 1321 Highway 19E 8301 Highway 19E Elizabethton, TN Roan Mountain, TN (423) 772-3115 (423) 543-7777

980 Jason Witten Way 313 W. Oakland Ave Elizabethton, TN Johnson City, TN (423) 547-1200 (423) 722-6228

29

Tickling the palate...

Highlander BBQ surely will bring a huge smile

P

* Story by Ivan Sanders & Photos Contributed

assing through Roan Mountain on Highway 19-E there is one stretch of highway where an aroma that is very distinct hits one’s nasal cavities especially if barbecue happens to be a food favorite.

When that smell hits, the best thing to do is to turn the vehicle immediately into the parking lot of Highlander BBQ which is the source responsible for that tantalizing flavor that has ebbed its way into the cabin of your vehicle.

Walking toward the log cabin exterior of the business one begins to wonder what they will find when they enter the building but upon entry, it is soon apparent that it’s almost like walking into the home of a close family member as a guest is soon welcomed with a warm smile and hello at the order counter by one of the hosts who is ready to bring delight to a palate.

This is where the difficulty also begins as the selections offered to visitors make it tough on those ordering as they have an option for either the house specialty of pulled pork or chicken which are smoked to perfection in the back of the restaurant and then pulled right in the kitchen.

Another customer favorite is the Highlander Fries which are hand-cut from the boxes of potatoes that are stacked on the opposite side of the aisle leading to the order counter.

These awesome fries are wonderful with a traditional smothering of ketchup or dipped in one of the tangy or sweet homemade barbeque sauces

The Highlander gang looks forward to serving both their regulars as well as new first-time visitors to Highlander BBQ in Roan Mountain.

One will surely leave stuffed after enjoying a Highlander BBQ pulled pork dinner consisting of pulled pork, barbecue beans, coleslaw, and rolls topped with one of Highland BBQ’s homemade sauces.

found on each table.

If that doesn’t make your mouth water, then try those piping hot fries topped with shredded cheddar jack cheese and either the pulled pork or chicken bathed in barbecue sauce or everyone’s favorite dipping treat ranch dressing.

And if one hasn’t already made plans after reading about these great house favorites, then pick a Friday evening on the calendar and make a visit to try Pigwings which are only available on that night.

What is a Pigwing...so glad you asked!

A Pigwing is a delicious, tender smoked, pork shank and ribs that are guaranteed to make one’s mouth salivate.

Another personal favorite is the corn nuggets along with the barbecue beans and slaw made in-house.

30

So not a personal fan of barbecue but the family is — no problem, as traditional sandwiches and other items such as salads are also offered as well as a kids menu for those children who love just the basics.

After filling the empty hollow of one’s stomach with the barbecue, make sure to leave some room for a homemade piece of cake or pie and possibly catch a freshly made cobbler to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Don’t forget to chase that meal down with an awesome cup of the

best Southern sweet tea you will find. It’s tea the way it should be made but if that is not your cup of tea, pun intended, then select from a selection of soft drinks, coffee, or water.

When it is said that Highlander barbecue is family-owned — it truly is family-owned as the founding family, the Turbyfields, along with another family member, the Fields, have come together to work in concert to run the business which allows for each member to have adequate family time within

Visitors need to mark Fridays on their calendar when coming to Highlander BBQ. Why you ask? Because it’s Pigwings day and time to get filled up with a delicious, tender-smoked, pork shank and ribs along with slaw, barbecue beans, and rolls.

One can never go wrong with a pulled pork sandwich topped with freshly made coleslaw and either of the homemade Highlander barbecue sauces.

One of Highlander BBQ’s specialties is their smoked barbecue baby back ribs available on Friday nights only. They are lip-smacking delicious.

31

their own homes.

It is always exciting for the Highlander gang to see new faces enter the doors, especially those who are traveling to or passing through the Roan Mountain community as the hostess has an opportunity to guide new members to the “family” through the Highlander menu explaining all the unique choices.

And while new customers are always welcome, the restaurant has become accustomed to taking care of their local customers and lunch crews that visit nearly every day

along with students from the local schools.

If planning a large event and need catering, you will always be treated like family as a catering menu will be designed to take care of your attendees with pricing being according to the choices made, needs for the event, and the location.

The restaurant is opened Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

If there is one thing that the Highlander gang wants their guest

to remember it is simply this — when you are at Highlander Barbecue, you are among friends and family as everyone is treated as if they were the Highlander’s “favorite

repeat customer.”

Highlander BBQ is open Wednesday through Friday from 11 am to 8 pm and on Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm.

Be sure to leave plenty of room for a yummy piece of pecan pie when dining at Highlander BBQ.

Stay informed and receive ALL EDITIONS at home AND on the go!

Highlander BBQ smokes all of its pork and chicken behind the restaurant.

Call 423-542-4151 Today for more information!

Elizabethton Star

YOUR STORIES · YOUR COMMUNITY · YOUR STAR

300 N. Sycamore Street Elizabethton, TN 37643

If you time it just right, you might be able to indulge in a fresh homemade fruit cobbler for dessert after trying the pulled pork or chicken and hand-cut fries.

32

Marketplace Carter County Living • 423.342.4189

Hillview Home Services is currently searching for passionate team members for Non-Medical In-Home Care opportunity.

Please Apply at http://www.hillview healthcenter.com/ careers or call Judy at 423-542-0417.

Hillview Health & Rehab searching for LPN’s, CNA’s, & RN’s. Please Apply at http://www.hillview healthcenter.com/ careers or Indeed or call Penny at 423-5425061

based on income.

Furnished utilities/ appliances. Yardwork & maintenance provided. Contact Cindy 423-542-2491 -EHO-Handicap Accessible-

and vision insurance available. Contact 828-765-1733

Americourt, Now Offering Weekly & Monthly Specials!

1515 Hwy 19 E, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Call for Rates!

(423)542-4466

The Courtyard.

710 E. Second Street.

Elizabethton, TN 37643. 423-543-2274.

Section 8. Elderly. 1 bedroom apartment.

OUTLAND ESTATE Stove, refrigerator, LIQUIDATORS. water & electricity PROFESSIONAL HOME provided, discounted ESTATE SALE • Home cable TV. TDD #1-800Estate Liquidations • 848-0298. TN Relay Moving Liquidations Center. Equal Housing • Senior Downsizing Opportunity.

• Probate Estimates • Business Liquidations. Ace Siding. Over For More Information 20yrs experience. and Upcoming Sales... Specializing in OutlandEstate roof repairs & Liquidators.com leaks. •Siding 423-342-5911 •Windows •Storm Repairs. Residential/ Birkner’s Auto Commercial.

Sales • 241 Smalling Insurance claim Road • Call anytime repairs. FREE day or night: ESTIMATES!!

423-542-2798 or Licenx=sed, bonded 423-957-0600 insured. Local birknersautosalestn. references. Call Rocky com 423-794-6145.

DOGWOOD TREE SERVICE. 24 HOUR SERVICE. Topping, removal, stumps, lot/land clearing, bobcat, backhoe, drainage control, masonry, 50’ crane •Concrete, brick, service. Insured. WE block & stone HAVE FIREWOOD! masonry, restoration Call 423-773-0449 demo, custom design.

•Patios, retaining Hearth & Home walls, Realty. Home Buying walkways, driveways, & Selling Made fireplaces.

Easy. 423-543-2307 •Concrete demo & hearthnhomerealty. replace. com Robert Delozier •Excavator & 423-737-0871 Skid Steer Service 26 years experience.

CDL CLASS A Call 423-431-8573 DRIVERS WANTED Full-time drivers are 1 Bedroom. Stove, needed for local refrigerator, water, and over-the-road garbage pickup. hauls. Our trucks Furnished. Minido not require blinds. Call 423-512ELD’s. Located in 2523 Spruce Pine, NC. Requirements: CDL Franklin Place Class A license, Apartments HUD references, and housing for clean driving record. low-income 62 Benefits: vacation & over. Rent pay, health, dental

Kelly Services NOW HIRING •MACHINE OPERATORS •MANUAL PRESS OPERATORS •WAREHOUSE & MAINTENANCE •ALL SHIFTS & OVERTIME 423.282.5550 www.kellyservices. com

Needed Direct Support Professionals and Home Managers to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities in the Kingsport/Tri-City areas. Competitive pay and benefit package. All needed training provided.

Interested applicants

33

apply at: Support Solutions Of Tennessee, 1007 W. Main Street, Greeneville, TN 423-636-8900 or online at supportsolutionsms. com.

Hermitage Health Center is accepting applications for fulltime and part time. Persons interested can apply @hermitage healthcenter.com EOE/M/F/D/V

Cooks, Prep People and a Dishwasher.

Call 423-542-3667 or Apply in person after 12, Tuesday-Friday.

1733 Hwy 19E, Elizabethton.

Betsytown Shopping Center LYON METAL ROOFING Your Trusted Local Supplier For Over 30 Years.

METAL ROOFING, METAL BUILDINGS, VINYL SIDING, VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS Installation Contractors Available Call 423-391-7788 www.lyonroofing. com 1-2BR APARTMENTS Historic Elk Park School If you/ your parents’ age and income qualify, we have apartments available IMMEDIATELY! Call for Appointment: 828-733-1546 Northwestern Regional Housing Authority - Equal Housing Opportunity Agency

Comcare, Inc FT/PT Direct Support Staff •18+years •Clean MVR/Drug •TB Test •FBI-TBI background check Mayflower Seafood •Drug-Free Restaurant Now Workplace •Excellent Hiring Kitchen Staff, benefit plan

NOW HIRING •Direct Support Professionals •Facility & Community Based Day Program •DSP’s •Supported Living (Residential) DSP’s •Job Coaches These positions assist people with intellectual LPN •Must be disabilities in licensed as a multiple settings Licensed Practical with supportive day Nurse in Tennessee to day care, explore •Knowledge of meaningful interests, basic principles and work and community practices of nursing integrated activities, •Assists Direct and community Support Staff in the relationships. support and care •Experience of developmental with intellectual disabled individuals in disabilities/mental a home environment health is desired or agency setting but not mandatory with particular •Strong skills in emphasis on medical creative thinking needs and helping people •Starting pay is discover interests are $15-$19 per hour highly desired depending on field •HS Diploma or GED exp required •$9.75 & up •Very low stress to start •12 hour shifts in •All Shifts Available private homes •35-40+ hours per •Nurse/patient ratio week •Monday-Friday never greater than and Weekend shifts 1:3 LPNs will function available with the same duties •Full benefits, as other agency •Excellent time-off Direct Support Staff package including all direct •Pre-employment care duties within a drug screening support setting. This required For a includes assistance truly rewarding with eating, dressing, employment grooming, bathing, experience Apply at: toileting, lifting, and Dawn of Hope 500 E. any other duties that Oakland Ave Johnson may be required to City, TN 37601 or assist a supported www.dawnofhope. individual • Training com program provided and GREAT benefits All Types of package! Apply at: Residential www.dawnofhope.

Building New com or in person at: Custom Built Homes 500 East Oakland •Decks & Porches Ave Johnson City, TN •Garages•Additions 37601 Monday-Friday •Siding•Remodeling 8am-4pm •Replacement Requirements: •S.S Card •Tennessee DL •Vehicle Liability Insurance •HS Diploma/GED No Calls, Apply-online: www.comcareinc.com EOE

Windows •Finishing Basements Call for free quote! Let’s discuss your plans & ideas! (423)444-3782 EZ File Tax Service is looking for experienced tax preparer in Elizabethton area.

Full-time or part-time positions available.

Send resume to: ezfileeliz@gmail.com or call 423-247-1870 Price Less Foods In Mountain City, Erwin and Johnson City, TN NOW HIRING Full/Part-Time Meat Manager & Cutters Apply in-store or online at: Houchens.com Phone: 423-727-8905 EEO Lynnwood Apartments Now Leasing 2 & 3 Bedrooms Utilities Included New flooring, newly renovated bathrooms Certain income restrictions apply Apply Today at: Lynnwood Apartments 1235 Bluefield Ave Elizabethton,TN or Call: 423-543-2031 Monthly Storage in Hampton •Inside & Outside •Located on Hwy •Cheap rates!

•Camera security •Boat and camper storage available Call 423-895-0351 for more information

Hollow Ct. Tuesday & Friday 9am-3pm For Information Call: 423-542-2111 HOLIDAY BOOKING 15%-off SPECIAL Solution to freeing up your schedule one call away! Offering Residential & Commercial Services •Customizable Times •Reasonable Prices •Friendly •Honest •Reliable Call Us!! 423-5886019 HOMEWORX SERVICES Adam Stout (423) 7321710. TN Licensed & Insured *20+ Years Experience* Professional Craftsmanship.

Construction, Electrical, Finish Carpentry, Home Repair Maintenance.

Painting, Plumbing, Rental. Property Maintenance, Fall Check List, Change Smoke Detector Batteries, Door & Window Sills, Filters, Clean Out Gutters, Limb/Brush Clean Up, Caulk Doors & Windows, Chimney Sweep, General Clean Up (Indoors & Outdoors), Pressure Wash. If items are not listed above, please call. Free Estimates.

Snow removal, Salt, Excavation, Land clearing, Tree’s, Mowing, MOUNTAIN HOLLOW Landscaping, Pressure APARTMENTS washing, Hunting Now Accepting Blinds, Welding, Applications for 2BR Fabrication, 15% OFF and 3BR Units Apply FIRST 100 .

At: 100 Mountain Call 423-963-3595

34

JOIN OUR CREW! Positions available: •Maintenance •Opening Crew •Day Crew •Closing Manager.

Full-time and part-time. Benefits: Flexible schedules, advancement, and scholarships. To Apply Visit: McDonald’s 461 Pineola St, Newland, NC 28657 or www.mchire.com Sugar Hollow Now Hiring. Maintenance Coordinator. Must have experience, Basic computer skills.

Carpentry skills preferred. Inside, outside and office Work required. Please submit resumé: hr@ sugar hollowretreat. com Davis Landscaping.

Immaculate Mowing.

35+ years experience.

Hardscaping, Manicured Mowing, Spring Clean up, Pressure Washing, Unique Designs, Maintenance, Renovation, (Residential and Commercial). Free Estimates.

423-542-6911. www.keithdavis landscaping.com Experienced mowing helpers, landscaping crew leader and landscape helpers needed. Must have valid drivers license, personal transportation and be drug free. Call: 423-542-6911

Dinner is all rolled up Chicken, ham and Swiss Roulades

When the weather starts to warm, people are inspired to once again venture outdoors and spend more time away from home.

People can benefit from having quick and easy dinner recipes at the ready so that hours are not spent in the kitchen after a day of fun in the fresh air.

With mere minutes of preparation and about 15 minutes cooking time, this recipe for “Chicken, ham, and Swiss roulades” from

“Real Simple Dinner Tonight: Done” (Time Home Entertainment) from the editors of Real Simple makes a simple weeknight meal that is tasty, too.

Chicken, ham, and Swiss roulades Serves 4 8 small chicken cutlets (about 11⁄2 pounds total) 8 thin slices cooked ham 8 thin slices Swiss cheese 4 tablespoons olive oil

6 cups mixed greens 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 1⁄4 cup whole-grain mustard Heat oven to 400 F. Season the chicken with 1⁄2 teaspoon salt and 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper. Roll up each cutlet with 1 slice of the ham and 1 slice of the Swiss cheese.

Skewer the roulades closed with toothpicks.

Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil 35

in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the roulades and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer the skillet to an oven and roast the roulades until cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, toss the greens and tomatoes with the vinegar, the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, and 1⁄4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Serve with the roulades and mustard.