Mountain Escapes Magazine March-April Edition

MARCH | APRIL 2021 COVERING MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA & WESTERN NC

Saddle Up

PIGEON FORGE, TN

Forge, A Mountain Quiltfest will utilize the 232,000-square-foot event center to provide required physical distancing From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy guidelines per Tennessee Pledge free entertainment for the family, including old-time Western activities Another exceptional Pigeon Forge event protocols and COVID-19 protocols.

Authentic chuck wagons, the original with Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch; Western is A Mountain Quiltfest May 5-8. While The free quilt exhibit and vendor hall food trucks, will gather for the familymusic and poetry; and roving cowboy this year’s scaled-down event will be are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 5-7 and friendly competition on Saturday, lookalikes. different, it aims to commemorate the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 8. Free onsite March 27, at Clabough’s Campground Andy Nelson and Wylie & the Wild West time-honored craft of quilting. quilting demonstrations occur daily, (405 Wears Valley Road). Chuck wagon headline two concerts during the event. in the Greenbrier rooms. Free parking cookoffs aid in the preservation of cattle An Intimate Evening dinner concert is Quilters of all skill levels can take is available at the LeConte Center at drive trail days as well as ensuring the set for 6 p.m. on Friday, March 26, at advantage of classes, seminars and Pigeon Forge. authentic reproduction of the mobile Mama’s Farmhouse (208 Pickel Street). workshops during the event. Topics kitchens.

Tickets are $50 each (tax included). cover everything from specific quilt Wylie & the Wild West join Nelson for patterns to both old and new techniques A Mountain Quiltfest was named a Top 20 Event in 2020 by the Southeast The competition includes cash prizes a Saturday evening concert at 6 p.m. at for machine and hand-quilting. Those for most authentic wagon and awards in Clabough’s Campground. Tickets are who are interested may register at Tourism Society. The International various food categories, including meat, $20 (tax included) per person. Seating is MyPigeonForge.com/event/quiltfest.

Festivals and Events Association beans, potatoes, bread and dessert. All general admission. awarded the event a silver Grand food items must be prepared onsite Located at the LeConte Center at Pigeon Pinnacle Award in 2019. and using ingredients provided to the The weekend continues on Sunday, cooking teams.

March 28, with the Chuck Wagon Breakfast and Cowboy Church at Stages Lunch is served at high noon, featuring West (2765 Parkway). The cowboy-style food prepared by each wagon. breakfast will be served 8:30 to 10 a.m.

Tickets are $15 (tax included) each for $5 per person (tax included). Cowboy and can be purchased in advance at Church follows at 10:30 a.m., and MyPigeonForge.com/events/cookoff. admission is free.

A limited number of tickets will be Preparing lunch begins long before breakfast at the Pigeon Forge Chuck Wagon Cookoff competition March 26-28.

available onsite.

Tickets to all events can be purchased onsite or in advance at MyPigeonForge. com.

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 3

INDEX V A L E R I A

S I N YA V S K AYA ,

A R T I S T I C

D I R E C T O R

MountainEscapes10@gmail.com For Advertising call 407-256-7584 issuu.com/mountainescapesmagazine Find us on Facebook & Instagram @Mountain Escapes Magazine

K I N G S P O R T B A L L E T . O R G

TENNESSEE

Saddle Up with the City of Pigeon Forge.............................. 3 Featured Events.......................................................................... 5 Celebrating the Bicentennial of Sequoyah Syllabary......... 12 Fort Loudon Tid Bits................................................................... 12 X-Hunger; To Help End Hunger in America.......................... 13 Velveteen Rabbit......................................................................... 14 Do-It-Yourself Pom-Pom Easter Egg Tree............................. 15 East Coast to Old City................................................................ 16 What Makes an Antique? ......................................................... 17 Kingsport Ballet Remakes a Classic ....................................... 18 A New Chapter for Earl Duff Subaru ...................................... 19

VIRGINIA

Featured Events.......................................................................... 5 Virginia Creeper Trail................................................................. 17

Performance Season In Honor of Cpt Herbert Ladley

NORTH CAROLINA

APRIL 16-17, 2021 SCHOOL PERFORMANCE: Thursday, April 15: 10Am

FRIDAY, April 16: 6pm SATURDAY, April 17: 2:30pm

GOLD EXCLUSIVE SPONSORS

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's

PERFORMANCE SPONSORS

SILVER SEASON SPONSORS

PLATINUM PATRONS

NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Tickets $12-$23 • Call: 423/378-3967

Featured Events.......................................................................... 5 Yancey Historical Association Featured Exhibit................... 6 Handcrafted Beauty with a Purpose....................................... 7 Memorable Historic Accommodations.................................. 7 What a Gem; a Spruce Pine Tradition.................................... 8-9 Lover’s Leap Loop Trail.............................................................. 10

OUTREACH SUPPORT TENNESSEE ARTS COMMISSION • CITY OF KINGSPORT INDIVIDUAL SEASON SPONSORS AND BEREZOVA SCHOLARSHIP SPONSORS CPT HERB LADLEY • KATHY RICHARDS, CPA • SCOTT AND BONNIE MACDONALD • DR LENITA THIBAULT • STEWART AND SHEILA TAYLOR • ELIZABETH BOYD • PHIL AND MARY RUTH RICHARDS • DR. AND MRS. JOSE VELASCO • ROGER AND AGNESE GOIN • CAROL DIXON • CLARISSA TATUM (AND THE REYNOLDS CORPORATION) • JACK AND SANDEE WOOLLEY • TONY AND GAIL COLE • KAREN ELLISON • SENATOR JON LUNDBERG • REP. BUD HULSEY • KIM AND GEORGE DECROES • DENNIS AND BOBBIE PHILLIPS • ROY AND LIZA HARMON (IN MEMORY OF AUNT RUTH VON BRAMER) • TIM AND CHRISTINA MORGAN • WILL AND JESSICA BARRETT • GIGI AND MIKE BOGGAN • FRANCESCA HARRELL ELECTED OFFICIALS SUPPORTING KINGSPORT BALLET CONGRESSWOMAN DIANA HARSHBARGER • SENATOR JON LUNDBERG • MAYOR PATRICK SHULL • REP. BUD HULSEY • REP. SCOTTY CAMPBELL • SEC TNGOP COMMITTEEWOMAN LINDA D. BUCKLES

4 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | MARCH | APRIL 2021

Sherlock Holmes Adventure

THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Airing March 2021 TheatreBristol.org #TBKDOS

Pigeon Forge, TN

Elizabethton, TN

SMOKY MOUNTAIN CUP April 9th-11th 11am-8pm Rocky Top Sports Complex The Smoky Mountain Cup Presented by Adidas is the Spring and Fall Southeast Regional of The High School Cup - a series of regional tournaments that correspond to Topdrawersoccer.com Regions. Regional champions greatly enhance their résumé in the quest to be awarded The High School Cup.

UNDERVALLEY DRAGWAYS 15TH ANNUAL NEW YEARS BRACKET CHAMPIONSHIP. March 19th-20th 12pm-9pm Undervalley Dragway 516 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643 15th Annual New Years Bracket Championship. 1/8 mile 1/24 scale drag slot car race. All races paired by bracket masters pairing software.

WOMEN’S SMOKY MOUNTAIN HIKING & GLAMPING BY EXPLORER CHICK ADVENTURE April 29th - May 2nd Great Smoky Mountains National Park Spend a long weekend hiking the best trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including parts of the Appalachian Trail and enjoy nightly glamping near Gatlinburg, TN on this 4 day women’s hiking tour to the Smoky Mountains.

For Full Details and to book, visit the website! www. explorerchick.com

EVENING BREEZE BULLS & BARRELS

BY A&J RODEO CO April 24th 7pm-10pm 239 C Grindstaff Rd, Elizabethton, TN 37643 Admission and entry prices TBA. Vendor spots and sponsorship spots available. Bullriding, barrel racing, and more! Contact LeeAnn Johnson at 865-765-6396 for more information

Burnsville, NC

TRUE GRIST BREW FEST April 24th 12pm-4pm Homeplace Beer Company DRIVE-IN MOVIE AND JEEP SHOW 321 West Main Street Burnsville, NC 28714 March13th 3pm Homeplace Beer Company presents the inaugural True Parkway Drive-In Grist Brew Fest, featuring 15 regional craft breweries 2909 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy Maryville, TN 37804 creating unique small batches with NC grown and ADMISSION for event: $15 per Jeep for movie. $20 for malted grains. Tickets are $25 and include a custom 7 movie & Jeep Show registration. JEEPS ONLY!! No other oz. festival glass with five beer tokens for sampling. vehicles will be admitted.

Purchase tickets at www.homeplacebeer.com.

CARS, COFFEE AND CYCLES BEE NATIVE PLANT SHOP OPENS March 6th 7am-11am FOR SEASON Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson April 5th 9am 1820 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy Maryville, TN 37801 Carolina Native Nursery 1st Saturday of the month from March through 1639 Price Creek Rd Burnsville, NC 28714 October cruise in for free coffee and donuts, stay for Carolina Native Nursery is very excited to open for lunch at the shed or the nightly concert series! the season. Plan on coming out soon to load up with native azaleas, shrubs, perennials, and more for your spring gardening. We all look forward to seeing you ADAPTIVE MOUNTAIN BIKING soon.

March 27th-28th 9am-5pm Catalyst Sports - Knoxville 302 Tiberius Rd Knoxville, TN 37918 This is an awesome opportunity to try mountain biking APPALACHIAN TRAIL BACKPACKING on the new accessible trails Legacy Parks created TRIP at Sharps Ridge. Catalyst has a range of adaptive March 19th--21st 9am-5pm mountain bikes for riders to use including e-assist and Blue Ridge Hiking Company tandem options. Register here: 70 College St Asheville, NC 28801 www.catalystsports.org/adventures/knoxville Enjoy one of our favorite sections of the Appalachian Trail on this 3 day, 2 night backpacking trip! The goal SMOKIES AUTOCROSS EVENT of this trip is provide a supportive environment for March 21st 8am-5pm people to experience backpacking, whether it is your Smokies Stadium first trip or your 100th! Participants will learn all 3540 Line Dr, Kodak, TN 37764 necessary skills to complete a backpacking trip, and Come join us for our first Autocross event in 2021. will leave empowered to hit the trail again soon. For Drifting on Sat the 20th as well so come on by and more information, visit: www.blueridgehikingco.com watch the action or catch a ride along.

Maryville, TN

EVENTS SMOKIES WILDFLOWERS AND WATERFALLS BACKPACKING TRIP April 20th-22nd 9am-5pm Blue Ridge Hiking Company 70 College St Asheville, NC 28801 Celebrate Earth Day by learning to identify the wildflowers you see on the trail! You’ll spend 3 days backpacking in one of the most wildflower diverse areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, taking time to stop and learn to identify the wildflowers you see along the way. For more information, visit: www. blueridgehikingco.com

Spruce Pine, NC REACHGATHERING April 13th-15th 12pm-3pm REACHgathering 1 ridgecrest drive Ridgecrest, NC 28770 Equipping You For Impact The hope fueling these efforts is that each attendee would leave the REACHgathering inspired, affirmed, connected, and equipped.

Over the course of three days, you will have access to choose from dozens of breakout track sessions and be a part of three large group main sessions.

3 DAYS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD March 28th 11am-12pm Grassy Creek Baptist Church 793 Old NC-226 Spruce Pine, NC 28777 You are invited to look at the greatest story ever told about three amazing days in the story of redemption through Jesus Christ. We will examine the events that make up Easter weekend beginning with Christ in Gethsemane and culminating with His resurrection on Easter morning.

West Jefferson, TN YOGA / HIKE / MEDITATION April 7th 10am-12pm Ridgetop Yoga Retreat & Cabins 2161 Boggs Road West Jefferson, NC 28694 This is a great opportunity to get out in nature and enjoy some of the beautiful sites in the mountains.

The Yoga portion will be very gentle and appropriate for all levels. Our hike will be slow paced and focuses on being present. At the end of our journey we will stop for some light snacks. Please bring something to drink and wear comfortable clothing. Price is $20.00 per person.

Knoxville, TN

Hot Springs, NC

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 5

BURNSVILLE, NC

FEATURE EXHIBIT

Open 10am to 2pm Wed to Sat 56 Stardust Rd. Burnsville, NC 28714 | 828-682-8043

Spring Hours: Tues-Fr 10-5pm Sat 10-2pm

828-536-5500 •All American Experience •Authentic Hospitality •Fresh Cooked Food •Never Frozen Burgers

Hours

Sunday - thursday 11am­-9pm friday - saturday 11am­-10pm

Visit us at

110 reservoir rd. Brunsville, nc 28714 6 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | MARCH | APRIL 2021

The Yancey History Association’s mission is to preserve, protect and display our culture, history and heritage through archival collections, promotion of education, oral history, genealogical record and living history.

The YHA’s feature exhibit for 2021 is a tribute to the patriotic effort, service and sacrifice made by the residents of Yancey County during World War II ( 1941 -1945). Men and women who had never ventured far from home were now serving their country in the military and medical services around the globe. Jobs that were once thought of as men's work were being performed competently by an all-women labor force. Allied victories became dependent on the knowledge and skill of women trained to thwart the enemy. War production found its way onto the farms and into the mines as essential products needed for military use became critical to the war effort. These occupations were deemed so important that men who worked as mica miners and tobacco growers were exempt from military service. Many young men and women left the county to work in factories across the state.

Everyone faced the rationing of gasoline and supplies. Small town life would change forever.

This feature exhibit recognizes local men and women in its display of information and memorabilia as well as links the other permanent exhibits to the wartime effort.

Yancey History Association Lloyd Bailey Building 3 Academy Street Burnsville, NC 28714 828-678-9587 yhmuseum@frontier.com

The common element in making all of this work is YOU and your membership. You can make a huge difference in our community, working with the town of Burnsville, the County and the school system as we move forward into the future. http://www. yanceyhistoryassociation.org/

BURNSVILLE, NC Handcrafted Beauty with a Purpose

MEMORABLE ACCOMMODATIONS The opportunity quilt, made by members of Mountain Piecemakers Quilt Guild, is called "The Garden Club Redux"

by Smith Street Designs. This beautiful quilt is a combination of machine embroidered applique, machine embroidery, and traditionally pieced blocks. There are 17 embroidery designs within the quilt. The finished size is 82 by 102 inches. The entire quilt is custom quilted by a member of the Guild. True colors are best represented in photo taken on fence due to lighting. Additional photos can be viewed on our website.

You can purchase tickets at https:// mountainpiecemakersquiltguild. org/ticket-purchase/ or visit our website, mountainpiecemakersquiltguild. org.

Proceeds go to purchase fabric and batting to make Hero Quilts for local veterans and to create Project Linus quilts for children in need. Each year we award 5060 quilts to local veterans from Yancey, Mitchell and Madison counties. This year's ceremony will be on Veterans Day at the Town Square in Burnsville . The drawing will be held at end of Veterans Day celebration on Nov. 11, 2021 in Burnsville NC. The quilt will be shipped if needed to the winner.

Funds raised also support making quilts for Project Linus. In 2020 we donated approximately 40 quilts to Project Linus quilts for children in need in Western North Carolina.

Mountain Piecemakers is a non-profit quilt guild and offers educational opportunities for those interested in quilting as well as community service projects.

WIN THIS

Mountain

QUILT

Opportunity

BEAUTIFUL

Piecemakers

Quilt

The Nu Wray Inn is a great place for meetings with family, coworkers, or friends. It’s a great destination hub for your Western North Carolina adventures. History surrounds you from the moment that you enter this landmark house. They have provided hospitality in its comfortable rooms for generations of travelers, including Thomas Wolfe, Elvis Presley, and Christopher Reeves.

Relax on the front porch in a rocking chair or enjoy the gardens, located within walking distance of restaurants, shops, live theater, and many other activities. During your stay, enjoy nearby fishing, hiking, horseback riding, tubing, and swimming in the famous Toe and Cane Rivers. We’ll work to make your stay in our historic inn both memorable and pleasurable.

Since 1833 • 13 Beautiful Rooms

• Family Reunions • Weddings & Rehearsals • Corporate Retreats • Church Retreats • Romantic Getaways • Murder Mystery Dinners

Queen

size GET YOUR RAFFLE TICKETS AT: MOUNTAINPIECEMAKERSQUILTGUILD.ORG

Custom Quilted

Nu Wray Inn • Overnight Accommodations 828-682-2329 NuWrayInn.com

102 Town Square Burnesville, NC 28714

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 7

SPRUCE PINE, NC

What a Gem

A vibrant local creative community makes downtown Spruce Pine the perfect place for the art lover to explore, from quaint shops that offer local hand-crafted items to the working studios of nationally known artists.

Art co-ops, craft classes, glass blowers, and more are tucked away in unique spaces across town.

With over four hundred artists and artisans in the area, whether you’re looking for metalwork, jewelry, glass, or gifts, you will find it downtown.

Since the early 1950’s Spruce Pine, North Carolina has been the host of the North Carolina Mineral and Gem Festival, welcoming visitors from around the world to shop for beautiful jewelry, gemstones, minerals, beads, crystals, fossils and more!

Even celebrities have been spotted

• CBD Oils, Salves & Vapes • Certified Organic Herbs • Organic Foods • Locally Handcrafted Jewelry Our Amish Made Polyresin Outdoor Furniture is:& Herbal Consultations • Aromatherapy • Crystals & Gemstones • Crystal Healing Therapy Spring is on the way and it is a great time to come in and see all the • All-Natural Personal Care Products wonderful gifts you can get for your family and friends or just YOU. We have • Premium Incense & Smudging Supplies over 1,500 rings for you to choose from including 200 Native American • Books & CDs • Home Decor, Gifts, & More

ROCKS AND THINGS WE BUY OLD ROCK COLLECTIONS

turquoise rings, 4 Squash Blossom necklace/earring signed sets, 6 silver and turquoise necklaces, 20 turquoise and gemstone necklaces, 50 earring sets, 209 Locust Street,INSuite A • Spruce Pine, NC 28777 –MANUFACTURER THE AREA! 300 gemstone pendants and much more silver and gemstone jewelry. We THE BEST QUALITY * THE BEST PRICES in the area! * 828-520-1253 • poppyswildcraft.com carry a large number of authentic Native American items. We have thousands * THE BIGGEST SELECTIONS! * of crystals from tiny single points to 90-pound single points and clusters up to 80 pounds. We also carry many metaphysical items like crystal balls, Home of828.765.8261 the Finest in Rustic Furniture, Home Decor pendants, pendulums, and a nice supply of crystal skulls. We carry some swtradingcompany.com 279 Oak Ave • Spruce Pine, NC paintings, antiques, and vintage glassware. We have thousands of mineral Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and gemstone specimens from all over the world and also many local Home of the Finest specimens. We are open 7 days a week from 9 to 5. Call in advance to be sure. in Rustic Furniture

For our virtual tour, see: http://destination.tours/rocks-and-things-spruce-pine-nc/

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Present This Coupon For 114 Oak Avenue 10% OFF Spruce Pine, North Carolina All Orders Over $100 828-765-1667 or 813-765-3073

8 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | MARCH | APRIL 2021

swtradingcompany.com

Take a virtual tour of the store & watch a video about store & owners Why Wait for your order?

Buy right off our showroom floor & have it today!

279 Oak Ave. Spruce Pine, NC 2877 828-765-8261 Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm

& Gifts

SPRUCE PINE. NC at the Festival selecting their jewelry, gemstones and gifts!

at the door on the day of the event.

Admission is $4 for adults, Children 10 and under are Free.

The Festival features gem, jewelry and mineral dealers from across the country showcasing their merchandise to fit every budget.

To find out more information Contact: NC Mineral & Gem Festival Mitchell County Chamber PO Box 858 Spruce Pine, NC 28777 (828) 765-9033 www.ncgemfest.com

Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring, a special stone for your own setting, a custom designed piece of jewelry or a special crystal display for your home, you can’t miss the NC Mineral and Gem Festival.

61st NC Mineral and Gem Festival is tentatively scheduled for July 29th -August 1st, 2021.

The NC Mineral & Gem Show is among the oldest gem shows in the country, and draws visitors from around the world to purchase jewelry, precious stones, and crystals from an impressive array of dealers. Choose from four days of shopping and exhibits, or register to NEW inventory arriving daily! tour a local mine and dig for treasure.

This event is very important to our community, but so is the health of our community and our visitors. We care about both. Visit our Safety Precautions Page to learn more about the steps we are taking to have a safe event.

Happy Frog, Foxfarm & Daddy Pete’s

Festival Admission Tickets Soil and Soil Amendments Festival Admission tickets are sold

NEW inventory arriving daily!

Happy Frog, Foxfarm & Daddy Pete’s NEW Inventory Arriving Daily!

Soil and Soil Amendments

Garden Flags, Mailbox Wraps, Address Stakes, Decorative Pots & More!

Annuals • Perennials • Shrubbery • Trees • Garden Supplies • Concrete Statues & Don’t forget shopping inside for garden items, outdoor furniture, Fountains • Pottery • Clay Pots • Wind Chimes

fire pits, pottery and much more.

Don’t forget to shop inside for garden items, outdoor furniture, fire pits & more!

665 Oak Ave. Spruce Pine, NC

828-765- 9133

Don’t forget shopping inside for garden items, outdoor furniture, Hours : Monday Saturday 8:30am - 5:30 | Closed Sunday fire pits, pottery-and much more.

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 9

DEMASCUS, VA

Virginia Creeper Tail

Located in Abingdon, VA 36o 42’ 32.12” N 81o 58’ 16.51” W tiny mountain town of Damascus & continuing on for another 17 mile stretch to the Historic town of Abingdon where you will find a huge selection of restaurants, antique shops, and of course the world famous barter theatre.

The Virginia Creeper Trail stretches 34 miles from Abingdon Virginia to the North Carolina state line near Whitetop Va. Every year more than 250,000 visitors from all over the world travel to Southwest Va. to experience the most beautiful bike

trail in the country, winding gently downhill from the trailhead at Whitetop train station, bikers travel through the Jefferson National Forest over dozens of trestles & bridges and alongside the breathtaking views of the Whitetop

The Original Shuttle Service • Family Friendly

226 W. Laurel Ave. Damascus, VA Open 7 Days a Week!

276-475-5095 1-800-475-5095

Blueblazebikeandshuttle.com 10 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | MARCH | APRIL 2021

Laurel Creek. About midway through the first 17 mile stretch you will come across the Creeper Trail Café where many cyclist stop to enjoy lunch or a piece of their world famous chocolate cake, with interpretive signs and historical sites along the way such as Whitetop, and Green Cove train stations where O, Winston Link captured some of his most famous photographs during the 1950’s the Virginia Creeper Trail has something for everyone. Actually crossing over the Appalachian trail and Running through the

Creeper Trail Bike Rental & Shuttle with two locations on the trail, ( Whitetop & Damascus ) has been in business for 7 yrs. and we provide shuttle service 7 days a week year round by reservation.

We offer only quality TREK bikes in various styles and sizes and can accommodate everyone from couples to the largest groups, our employees are all native to the area and we take pride in making sure your visit to our area is one you will never forget. So load up your bike or stop in to rent one of ours and let us shuttle you and your family to the trailhead for a day of outdoor fun that can be enjoyed by all ages. You can call us at 276-475-3611, or email us at creepertrailbike@aol.com for reservations, or visit us online at www.creepertrailbikerentalshuttle.com for more info.

WEST JEFFERSON | HOT SPRINGS NC Located in Hot Springs, NC 35o 53.356” N 82o 48.711” W

Featured Trail: Lover’s Leap Loop Trail.

The Lover’s Leap Trail offers a dramatic view of the French Broad River and the town of Hot Springs. It ascends onto a rocky bluff overlooking the French Broad directly across from town. It highlights not only the rugged beauty of the valley, but also the biological diversity that the area is well known for. The trail is a short walk from downtown, so the best parking can be found right in town. As you cross the resort, then the French Broad and then ascend onto the rocky promontory, you can see most of the major features the area is known for.

Lover’s Leap Loop Trail Hot Springs, located in the mountains of Western North Carolina and cuddled along the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River, is a town rich in history and beaming with natural charm.

Whether you are searching for an outdoor adventure, a relaxing soak in a natural mineral hot spring, or an evening out with friends and family

enjoying live music, craft brews and delicious food, you will find yourself refreshed and invigorated by the beauty of Hot Springs.

Be sure to take a few steps (or more!) on the legendary Appalachian Trail (A.T.), which crosses through Hot Springs and draws thousands of adventure seekers from around the world every year.

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HMystical Gifts HHandmade Jewelry HCandles HBath Bombs Create your Own Perfume & Beard Oil HCrystal SpecimensH Magick Tools H2nd Hand Books and Clothing HNoveltyH Folk Art HSouthern Culture HGothic & Alternative StylesHIncenseHCollectibles HStickersHPostersHPatchesHLoose Herbs H Herbal TeasHFaerie Gardens HSucculent Plants AND MORE! Escape Room Theme: Madame Belchere’s Haunted Parlour”

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Escape Room & Curiosity Shoppe www.greatsoutherngothic www. greatsoutherngothic..com 336-846-2410 103 North Jefferson Ave west jefferson nc 28697

Lover’s Leap Trail offers a dramatic view of the town and French Broad River.

As it ascends onto a rocky bluff, you can view the rugged beauty of the valley and the biological diversity for which the area is well known. Look for Canada Geese on the lawn, and hawks and even eagles soaring overhead.

Cardinals, Song Sparrows, Chipping Sparrows, Robins, Orchard Orioles, House Finches, House Sparrows, Starlings, Pigeons, Chimney Swifts and Rough-winged Swallows also abound.

This hike is easily accessible. Park in any of the convenient public parking areas in downtown Hot Springs, walk to Bridge Street and turn towards the railroad tracks. The A.T. follows Bridge Street through town as you walk past the famous naturally warm mineral waters of Hot Springs Resort and Spa.

LOCATED ON THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL! Something for the Hiker, Family, Friend or Yourself!

Kuhl, Teva, Chaco, Natural Foods, Toys, Maps, & Local Info!

Appalachian Trail Mile Marker 271 152 Bridges Street Hot Springs, NC 28743

828-622-7162 bluffmountain.com

no

Sunday-Thursday 9am-5pm Friday & Saturday 9am-6pm

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 11

VONORE, TN CELEBRATING THE BICENTENNIAL 2021 is the bicentennial of Sequoyah finishing the syllabary in 1821. Sequoyah had announced in 1809 in his blacksmith shop that the Cherokee could create a writing system to put their Cherokee words on paper. He spent 12 years of his life trying to create a writing system. We know he tried different types of writing systems, but these different systems would not work for him.

When Sequoyah discovered the sounds of the Cherokee language, he then realized that he could take each of the

syllables and give it a symbol.

He then could sound out the Cherokee word and using his symbols, could write any Cherokee word. The Cherokee speaker could spend some time learning the symbols and then could sound out and read or sound out and write their Cherokee words on paper .

This year Sequoyah Birthplace Museum will be celebrating Sequoyah’s achievement throughout the year. Plan to visit Sequoyah Birthplace Museum and celebrate 200 years of Cherokee literacy with Sequoyah’s creation of the syllabary in 1821.

New 3 Million Dollar Exhibit 576 HWY 360, VONORE, TN · EXIT 72 Fort Loudoun State Historic Park is 1,200-acres and is one of the earliest British fortifications on the western frontier, built in 1756. The fort was reconstructed during the Great Depression and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965.

sent the Independent Company of South Carolina to construct and garrison what became Fort Loudoun. This move helped to ally the Overhill Cherokee Nation in the fight against the French and guaranteed the trade would continue between the Cherokee and South Carolina.

During the French and Indian War (1754-1763) the British Colony of South Carolina felt threatened Located 338 Fort Loudoun

by French activities in the Road Vonore, TN 37885 Mississippi Valley. To counter this threat, the Colony

12 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | MARCH | APRIL 2021

MARYVILLE, TN

“To Help End Hunger in America” The XHunger Club, A Scarecrow Foundation Initiative, is the newest and most innovative way that allows high school and college students to attain service hours and help end hunger in America. In addition the XHunger City Clubs allows individuals and businesses the opportunity to help end hunger in America as well. The XHunger Club simply locates a food pantry, understands their mission and then volunteers & supports that pantry. XHunger Clubs are student led and is how service learning is achieved. Service hours are attained on an ongoing basis. America does not need more food pantries, it needs more volunteers and supporters to help people in need of hunger solutions.

xhunger.com

HISTORY OF SCARECROW FOUNDATION Why should anyone in America be hungry?

We began helping existing food pantries in Knoxville on August 27, 2010. We held national aspirations from Day 1, yet knew we needed to gain experience, trust, and credibility. Harry Wade and Jimmy Buckner made an unconventional decision not to raise money for our own needs, rather to operate on a zero budget and inspire an all-volunteer organization to help people in need of hunger solutions. Larry Perry helped us gain 501(c)3 status and CPA Dennis Overton agreed to navigate our compliance obligations with the IRS. Hence, 100% of the proceeds from all of our events and campaigns continues to go directly to the nonprofits we support. We remain to date an

7,455 Raised

all-volunteer charity.

We remain open minded to involve and expand our growing brand to help end hunger. Again, “we” are not going to end hunger, rather we are helping the “existing” food pantries and hunger organizations who are doing the heavy lifting helping those in need of food security. Scarecrow helps the helpers.

We are excited about XHunger.com as this national program will motivate Americans to: • Locate a Pantry • Understand their Purpose • Volunteer and Support With XHunger.com we look to also expand Xhunger Clubs, build a network of national leadership, expand our brand and keep enjoying the journey while helping those in need of hunger solutions.

992,545 Needed

1,000,000 Goal

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 13

KNOXVILLE, TN knoxvillechildrenstheatre.com

Velveteen Rabbit Adapted by James Still from the classic story by Margery Williams, “The Velveteen Rabbit” is a beloved tale faithfully told and carefully expanded for the stage. It is an emotional journey through time, as told through the eyes of a young man looking back on his childhood. By reliving the relationship between his 4-year-old self and his favorite toy, the velveteen rabbit, he rediscovers the true meaning of friendship.

Central to the story is, of course, the velveteen rabbit, who is introduced to the idea of becoming real by the old rocking horse. The play explores the rewards of loyalty, the poignancy of loss, and the wonderful, surprising powers of love. Appropriate for all ages.

April 9th- April 25th 109 E. Churchwell Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37917 • knoxvillechildrenstheatre.com

!

N E P NOW O

5030 KINGSTON PIKE KNOXVILLE, TN 37919 865-588-4052

We are open temporary hours Tues - Thurs 10 to 5, Friday 10 to 5 Saturday 10 to 3

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KNOXVILLE, TN

DIY Pom Pom Easter Egg Tree Materials

Scissors One large knitting loom An assortment of colorful yarn An assortment of colorful ribbon Large branch from outside Vase or Pitcher

Hippety Hop Easter’s on it’s Way...

As you know, we love an Easter tree and it’s becoming a tradition to try a new one every year. This year we are on a major pom pom kick! We’ve been experimenting a bunch and of course that certainly meant that we had to try our hand at an Easter egg! Yes, Easter is almost here, but this is one of those projects where you can sit with the TV on and go to town or even prep for next year.

See the full tutorials for a solid, polka dot, and stripe egg pomat www. thehousethatlarsbuilt.com

Basic Pom Creation Using your large knitting loom, open one side of arches. Holding the two arches together, begin wrapping your chosen color of yarn around the arches all the way from one side to the other. When you begin wrapping the yarn, be sure to leave about an inch of the start of the yarn hanging down so that you are able to tie it to the end of the yarn when finished wrapping. Also, be sure to wrap the yarn so that the arches are covered densely (this will help your pom to be more full once it is opened).

Once wrapped enough, cut the end of the yarn and tie the beginning of the yarn to the end of yarn. Cut the excess strands after tying the knot.

Close that side of the knitting loom, and

open the other side of arches. Begin wrapping the same color of yarn on this side. Repeat steps 2-4.

Once both sides are wrapped, close the knitting loom. With your scissors, cut through the yarn down the middle of the arches on each side of the loom.

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Take a 36 inch piece of ribbon and wrap it around the center of the knitting loom where you just cut the yarn. Tie the ribbon in a double knot around the knitting loom. Once the knot is tied, remove the knitting loom from around the yarn.

Lastly, trim your pom so that it is in the shape of an egg.

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 15

KNOXVILLE, TN

2543 Sutherland Ave Knoxville, TN 37919 www.skiscuba.com | 865-523-9177 Store Hours: Tues-Fri 10-6 & Sat 9-4 Closed Sun and Mon Ski Scuba is your :local” source for Scuba Diving & Training Certifications. Become an SSI or PADI Open Water Diver with personalized training!

TRY SCUBA March 16th: 6pm - 9pm March 17th: 10am - 1pm April 10th: 10am - 1pm April 11th: 10am - 1pm

OPEN WATER CLASSES April 10th: 9am - 6pm April 11th: 9am - 6pm May 1st: 9am - 6pm May 2nd: 9am - 6pm

Large Variety of Masks - Fins - Snorkels in stock now!

*TUSA Intega Mask-Hyperday Elite Snorkel-Solla Fins Pictured

16 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | MARCH | APRIL 2021

East Coast to Old City Mark paints nearly every day. “I’m so thankful, I’m so blessed to be doing what I’m doing. I want people to have my work that love it. To me paintings are like pets.

You should adopt it. You should love it. You should cherish it.”

His friend and fellow painter Leigh Burch rents him the Old City studio space for a fraction of what he was paying in Nashville.

Mark calls himself an East Coast artist but he’s happy to be living and working in downtown Knoxville.

Four years ago he closed his Nashville studio and moved back to Knoxville. He has not regretted it. He’s back home with his family. Almost every month he travels to shows, galleries or delivers paintings to collectors. He finds the Knoxville airport to be much more convenient to reach most of his destinations than flying out of Nashville.

Mark also enjoys the laid back vibe and much lower studio rental prices in Knoxville.

If you want to stop by the gallery to see his paintings and visit you can make an appointment by calling him at 615-4797279. You can follow him and his work on Instragram@markcarsonenglish where he has several hundred thousand followers.

You can also check out his website at markcarsonenglish.com or his Facebook page, Mark Carson English Studio.

Are you looking for a change?

Schedule your appointment with Chantal Jones, Your personal Hair Artist for over 24 years!

865-919-1175 5113-D Kingston Pk. 37919

ELIZABETHTON, TN What Makes Something an Antique?

Antique items are not taxed, so in 1966, the 100-year standard was adopted to keep people from claiming things as antiques that actually weren’t.

In 1996, the tax law was revised to read that “if the essential character is changed, or more than 50 percent of the item has been repaired or restored, the item is no longer considered an antique and is subject to duty.”

An exception to this rule is cars and other items that are subject to frequent wear—they can be called antique when they are over 25 years old.

By Julia Krueger Every time you watch Antiques Roadshow, you probably wonder: Just how do we know what items are antiques?

The rule of thumb used by most antique dealers is that anything about 100 years or older is an antique.

Items that are old, but not quite that old, are called vintage. In 1930, the U.S. government put a tax law into effect stating that an item was to be considered antique if made before 1830, about the time the Era of Mass Production began. According to this law, antiques are “works of art (except

Voted #1 Antique Voted #1 Mall in Antique Elizabethton Mall Voted #1in Antique voted #1 Elizabethton Antique voted #1 Mall in

rugs and carpets made after the year 1700), collections in illustration of the progress of the arts, works in bronze, marble, Terra Cotta, Parian, pottery or porcelain, artistic antiquities and objects of ornamental character or educational value which shall have been produced prior to the year 1830.”

Come on by and get

Not all dealers use this 100-year rule. Some will call an antique anything between 80 and 100 years old, and others still use the 1830 guideline. There are also some who, for the sake of simplicity, don’t use the term antique at all and refer to everything as either vintage or collectible.

INSPIRED!

Mall in Elizabethton Antique Elizabethton Mall#1 in voted Elizabethton Antique Mall in Elizabethton

Duck Crossing is a three floor one-of-a-kind antique store.

Duck Crossing is a three floor Featuring everything from finestore. furniture, one-of-a-kind antique Duck Crossing is a three floor primitive findings, vintage clothing to new Featuring everything from fine furniture, one-of-a-kind antique store. home decor items & gifts.

You will also primitive findings, vintage clothing to new Featuring everything from fine furniture, find local memorabilia and handmade crafts home decor itemsvintage & gifts.

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TN among more than 20 antique/gift stores & crafts local . store. find local memorabilia and handmade Duck Crossing isina three floor one-of-a-kind antique Located the heart of downtown Elizabethton, eateries.

Located in furniture, thethan heart20 ofantique/gift downtown findings, Elizabethton, Featuring everything fine primitive vintage clothing TN from among more stores & antique local Duck Crossing is a three floor one-of-a-kind store. to new

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423-518-1858 Mon-Fri 11-5:30 • Satfind 10-6 •local Sun 1-5 among more than 20 antique/gift stores & local eateries.

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Featuring everything from fine furniture, primitive findings, vintage to new Located in the heart of downtown Elizabethton, TNclothing home decor items & gifts. also find local memorabilia and handmade crafts.

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Located in515 the heart downtown Elizabethton, TN /E DuckCrossingElizabethton E Elk Avenueof • OPEN 7 days a week!

Mon-Fri 11-5:30 • Sat 10-6 • Sun 1-5 among more than 20 antique/gift stores localeateries. eateries.

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423-518-1858 515 E Elk Avenue • OPEN 7 days a week!

423-518-1858 515 E11-5:30 ELK Avenue • Elizabethton, TN 515 E EElk Avenue OPEN 7 days days week!

Mon-Fri •••Sat 10-6 • Sunaa1-5 515 Elk Avenue OPEN 7 week!

Open late onOpen Cruise In Saturdays & 2nd10-6 Friday on Elk. Mon-Fri • Sat 10-6 Mon-Fri 11-5:30 •11-5:30 10-6 Sun 1-5 Mon-Fri 11-5:30 • Sat Sat ••Evenings Sun 1-5 / DuckCrossingElizabethton

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nd Friday Evenings on Elk. Open late CruiseInInSaturdays Saturdays & & 2nd Open late onon Cruise Friday Evenings on Elk.

Fletcher’s Homemade A quilt shop and so much more in the heart of Elizabethton’s Historic District. Fletcher’s Homemade specializes in quality quilting fabrics and notions. Local made goods are on hand to support our talented local artists such as doll clothes, soaps, homemade buttons, jewelry, embroidered items, photography and more. I also make tee shirt quilts from your collection and long arm quilt new and vintage quilt tops.

Located in Historic Downtown Elizabethton 510 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643 206-979-7811 FletchersHomemade@gmail.com FletchersHomemade.com

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 17

ABINGDON, VA | KINGSPORT, TN KINGSPORT BALLET

RESTAGES A CLASSIC Kingsport, TN – After more than 25 years, Kingsport Ballet prepares to re-stage the ballet classic, Coppelia, under the artistic direction of Valeria Sinyavskaya and the assistant direction of Leonid Flegmatov. The full-length ballet is set to be performed at NPAC in Greeneville on April 16th and 17th,2021. The plan is for audiences to attend the ballet in person in limited numbers as well as virtually. Should that change in the coming months, audiences will once again be able to purchase livestream tickets.

While this ballet was originally staged in 1870 in Paris by the Imperial Theater Opera (later Paris Opera Ballet) The original choreographer was Arthur St. Leon to the music of Leo Delibes, but modern-day productions are traditionally derived from the revivals staged by Marius Petipa for the Imperial Ballet of St. Petersburg in the late 19th century.

Coppelia is a lightly comic ballet centered around a doll, Coppelia, who was lovingly created by the eccentric toy-maker Dr. Coppelius. She is so life-like that a handsome village boy is infatuated with her and determined to win her love, despite the fact that he is already engaged to be married to Swanhilda!

Set in the old-world village of Galicia, the ballet in three acts takes the audience along on an entertaining And charming ride, from the village in Act One, into Dr. Coppelius’ study in Act Two, where in the shadows all manner of life-size toys appear so realistic as be able to move and dance and play all on their own.Though at times comical, the plot gets complicated and heart-wrenching, as Swanhilda and her friends sneak into Dr. Coppelius’ study and fool him into believing Coppelia, his masterpiece, has come to life.

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“We are very happy to be staging Coppelia in full this spring, after last year’s preparations were cut short due to the Covid-19 quarantine,” said artistic director Valeria Sinyavskaya. “Unlike the grand, regal ballets that we usually stage, such as Swan Lake, Giselle,

The Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia is charming and approachable, and the perfect ballet for our current company.”

The cast of Coppelia will be made up of Kingsport Ballet Company’s own dancers and in-house professionals, as well as students from the school.

Dr. Coppelius will be performed by KB’s own Leonid Flegmatov. The lead ballerina and Kingsport Ballet student, Sophie Kooy, is a recent recipient of the Grand Prix, along with her partner Garrett Frierson, at the Jewels Ballet Competition in New York for their performance of the pas de deux from Coppelia.

Garrett also received the “Best Boy” Grand Prix award, and their pas de deux from Coppelia was selected for a special judge’s award by Era Juravlev, director of the Joffrey Ballet Academy in New York.

Assistant Artistic Director, Leonid Flegmatov, received 2nd place Best Teacher Award at the festival, and Kingsport Ballet received the Grand Prix 2nd Place Award for Best School. Other Kingsport Ballet students, Mia Christie and Morgan Mullins also received 2nd and 3rd place awards respectively.

“We are excited to stage this ballet with our own advanced dancers and professionals in the lead roles – all Kingsport Ballet dancers. We are proud of the high level training our teachers provide to make such a production possible,” said executive director, Bertina Dew. Area artists and designers have collaborated to create sets and re-create costumes for this production.

Kingsport Ballet is funded in part by the Tennessee Arts Commission, under an agreement with the General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. As a member of Tennesseeans for the Arts, Kingsport Ballet promotes specialty license plates, which help support the arts in the state of Tennessee: www.tnspecialtyplates.org Outreach programs are partly funded by the City of Kingsport.

Earl Duff Subaru is proud to begin a new chapter of growth at our new facility on Gallaher Road in Kingston, TN. For years, we wanted to expand our business and provide our services to more people and places. Current customers know Earl Duff Subaru as one of the friendliest and honest car dealerships in the region, and we are excited to bring our high standard of customer service to those in Oak Ridge, Lenoir City, Knoxville, and more.

The 23,000 sq. ft. dealership on Gallaher Road allows for increased inventory of new Subaru vehicles as well as pre-owned vehicles. Alongside that, our

KINGSTON, TN

service department has received significant upgrades, including a drive through express service lane and huge service shop staffed by certified technicians. With our new facility, we are able to offer my appointment slots as well as expanded hours for both sales and staff.

By growing our business, we hope that Earl Duff Subaru will continue to have a positive effect on the community. Through the Subaru Love Promise, we have provided assistance to local organizations that provide valuable services, and we want to increase our charitable giving in the future. Additionally, we hope that our presence will

catalyze new development and growth on Gallaher Road and eastern Roane County.

While we are proud of the new Earl Duff Subaru, it is important to us that we provide convenient service to our existing customers as well.

To that end, our original location has remained open as the Earl Duff Pre-Owned Center. There we offer a selection of pre-owned vehicles, as well as a full range of vehicle service.

We’d like to thank the community for their support over the years, and we look forward to many more years of growth to come!

Earl Duff Subaru Website: duffsubaru.com Phone: 865-882-0113 Address: 531 Gallaher Road Kingston, TN 37763 Earl Duff Pre-Owned Center Website: duffpreowned.com Phone: 865-285-9450 Address: 1028 S Roane St. Harriman, TN 37748

MARCH | APRIL 2021 | MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | 19

Earl Duff Subaru

• 97% of Outback vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today • A 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ • Subaru is a five-time Top Mainstream Brand for Residual Value

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• 97% of Outback vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today • A 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ • Subaru is a five-time Top Mainstream Brand for Residual Value

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• 12-speaker 576-watt-equivalent Harmon Kardon® premium audio system • Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and PIN-Code vehicle access • Hands-free Power Rear Gate

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531 Gallaher Rd. , Kin 865-882-

531 Gallaher Rd. Kingston, TN 37763 865-882-0113 | www.DuffSubaru.com *Prices plus tax, tag, title and CSF of $199.50.

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See your dealer for details. Manufacturer's suggested retail price does not include destination and delivery charges, tax, title and registration fees or CSF of $199.50. Destination and delivery 12653 12490 includes handling and inland freight fees and may vary in some states. Prices, specifications, options, features and models subject to change without notice.