Mountain Escapes November-December Edition 2021

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 COVERING MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA & WESTERN NC NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 COVERING MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA & WESTERN NC

New Merchandise ARRIVING DAILY in time for all your Christmas decor & gift giving too!

• Melissa and Doug Toys • P. Graham Dunn • Enesco - including Jim Shore • Mary “Square Rubber” Totes

• Apple Butter, Jam, Jellies & Honey •Candles, Scented Satchels & Wax Melts • Lazy One - Adult & Children Clothing

665 Oak Ave. Spruce Pine, NC

828-765- 9133

Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00 | Closed Sunday

Decor for Your Home, Cabin or Lake House!

Winter brings lots of birds! We have many choices for feeders, houses & seed. Garden decor, flags, mailbox covers, wind chimes, etc.

Studio M Bird Houses, Baths, Planters & stakes.

Beautiful Artwork on all these items and many designs to choose from!

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| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

A Mountain Christmas Trail of Lights Returns!

This is one year that we all need a lot more cheer!

The Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the 3rd annual A Mountain Christmas Trail of Lights this year and is inviting everyone to come and enjoy a Merry Mountain Christmas.

The event will kick off on November 27th, with events in both Spruce Pine and Bakersville, NC Spruce Pine's Christmas parade will be held the Saturday after Thanksgiving and wrap up a day of shopping on Small Business Saturday. Throughout the month of December, there will be events every weekend. The popular Journey to the Manger returns this year and is being extended to two

weekends. The Journey to the Manger takes place in Bakersville NC and is a outdoor dramatization with visitors traveling through the Bethlehem market to arrive at the manger complete with live camels, sheep, donkeys and more.

rides, shopping with local artists and downtown shopping events in both Spruce Pine and Bakersville. Of course this is the place to come to pick out your perfect Christmas tree! Visit local choose and cut Christmas tree farms and enjoy hot chocolate and hayrides.

More holiday fun will include breakfast with Santa, drive in holiday movies, concerts, horse and carriage

For more information and a schedule of events, visit www. amountainchristmastrailoflights.com.

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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INDEX

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VIRGINIA

Featured Events.......................................................................... 6|7 Make Holiday Memories with Us............................................ 3 Veteran Day Facts....................................................................... 4

NORTH CAROLINA

Featured Events.......................................................................... 6|7 A Mountain Christmas Trail of Lights Returns...................... 2 Christmas is Coming to Core Sound Museum..................... 8 A Real Treasure............................................................................ 12 “Pop” in this Holiday Season................................................... 13 Barn Memories............................................................................ 15 A Christmas Tradition................................................................. 16|17 East Yancey Middle School Friendsgiving............................. 20 Catch the Bug.............................................................................. 21

TENNESSEE

Featured Events.......................................................................... 6|7 Celebrating 42 Years of Artisians and Crafters..................... 22 Enjoy the Holiday Lights by Train............................................ 26

HOLIDAY TIPS & RECIPES

Black Friday Shopping............................................................... 9 This Holiday Season Shop Local............................................. 10|11 Best Cookies for Dunking Recipe............................................ 19 Fresh Cranberry Vodka Spritzers with Rosemary................. 23 Over the River & Through the Woods..................................... 24|25 Did Somebody Say “Dirty Santa”........................................... 28|29 Lets Make the House Smell Like Christmas.......................... 31

Veterans Day Facts Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans—living or dead— but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.

When Is Veterans Day? Veterans Day occurs on November 11 every year in the United States in honor of the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” of 1918 that signaled the end of World War I, known as Armistice Day. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was passed

by Congress, which moved the celebration of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October.

The law went into effect in 1971, but in 1975 President Gerald Ford returned Veterans Day to November 11, due to the important historical significance of the date. Veterans Day commemorates veterans of all wars.

Great Britain, France, Australia and Canada also commemorate the veterans of World War I and World War II on or near November 11th:

Canada has Remembrance Day, while Britain has Remembrance Sunday (the second Sunday of November). In Europe, Great Britain and the Commonwealth countries it is common to observe two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. every November 11.

Every Veterans Day and Memorial Day, Arlington National Cemetery holds an annual memorial service.

The cemetery is home to the graves of over 400,000 people, most of whom served in the military.

Veterans Today The military men and women who serve and protect the U.S. come from all walks of life; they are parents, children, grandparents, friends, neighbors and coworkers, and are an important part of their communities.

Here are some facts about the veteran population of the United States: 18.2 million living veterans served during at least one war as of 2018.

9 percent of veterans are women.

7 million veterans served during the Vietnam War. 3 million veterans have served in support of the War on Terrorism.

Of the 16 million Americans who served during World War II, about 325,000 were still alive as of 2020.

2 million veterans served during the Korean War. Thank you to all our men and women who have served our country!

savannah knows

eva girl says

That there are many types of art to explore an appreciate. The metal artist that created this sculpture behind me- wondering how I could make one like it! If I start at my early age I could be a great metal artist or find my creative abilities as I grow! Find your inner artist!

Soon it will be Christmas! No matter the gifts, remember family is the best gift of all. Whether it’s relatives or people who love you and are important in your life, hopefully you take the time to see them! And always remember, Jesus is the reason for the season! Have a Merry Christmas Everyone!

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ABINGDON, VA

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Barter Theatre presents "A Christmas Story" at the Smith Stage!

Begins Nov. 18

Abingdon Holiday Lights Driving Tour Begins Dec. 1

Abingdon Merchants' Holiday Open House Nov. 21; 1 PM - 5 PM

Abingdon Christmas Parade December 4; 6 PM

152 E. Main St. Abingdon, VA 24210 102 E. Main St. Kingsport, TN 37660

SCAN FOR INFO

VAHIGHLANDSFESTIVAL.COM NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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EVENTS

Burnsville, NC

SUPPER BREAK BLUEGRASS CONCERT November 6th @ 6:30 pm Come enjoy a great evening filled with lively bluegrass tunes from Supper Break at Homeplace Beer Company! Supper Break is a bluegrass band serving tasty licks night & day. Members represent many styles and areas of the country but now call Asheville home. Homeplace Beer Company has weekly events through the end of the year. Find more events and information at https://www.facebook.com/ homeplacebeer.

Hot Springs, NC

‘BIG PILLOW TALK’-LIVE MUSIC WEDNESDAYS! Every Wednesday @ 6:00 pm-9:00 pm Stop by Big Pillow Brewing every Wednesday for delious craft beers and live music. Some Wednesdays are even Open Mic Night! Times may vary. Check their website or Facebook page for more details.

Jefferson, NC

2021 CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE November 4th @ 4:30 pm-7:30 pm Stop by Third Day Market’s annual Christmas Open House shopping in the dark event! From 4:30-7:30 enjoy store wide savings, refreshments and double loyalty. Stay tuned to their Facebook for more information to come: https://fb.me/e/LIK0FbbV. SANCTUS REAL LIVE ACOUSTIC November 20th @ 7:00 pm-10:00 pm Sanctus Real perform a live acoustic show to raise funds for the Compassionate CommissaryTM program of Musicians Mission of Mercy at Ashe Civic Center. More information and tickets at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/sanctus-real-live-acoustic-tickets-186005496447?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Spruce Pine, NC

COUNTRY CHRISTMAS AT THE BARN December 11th @ 1:00 pm-6:00 pm Join Neighbors Feeding Neighbors Food Ministry for a day of Holiday Cheer. Guests will be invited to make Christmas decorations to decorate the Christmas Tree. There will also be a reading of the Christmas Story and fun, festive activities for the children. Stay tuned to their Facebook page for additional information: https://fb.me/e/6LSg5YDdL.

Waynesville, NC

WAYNESVILLE CHRISTMAS PARADE December 6th @ 6:00 pm Celebrate the Holiday Season with Downtown Waynesville at their annual Christmas Parade. This year’s theme is “A Winter Wonderland.” If you’d like to participate, parade applications are due by November 12th.

YOGA FOR A CAUSE 2021: HEALING PINES RESPITE FUNDRAISER November 6th @ 12:00 pm-1:30 pm Join Karen McGovern for a Fundraiser Flow class on Saturday November 6th from 12:30 -1:30pm- with proceeds going toward Healing Pines Respite, who provide healing respite for women throughout North Carolina currently in cancer treatment and up to two years post-treatment with the intention of healing: mind, body, and spirit.

Elizabethton, TN 2021 ELIZABETHTON CHRISTMAS PARADE December 11th @ 6:00 pm-8:00 pm Main Street Elizabethton is excited to host the annual Elizabethton Christmas Parade in Downtown Elizabethton! The theme of this year’s parade is “Christmas on the Big Screen”. Main Street will honor The Friends of the Bonnie Kate Theater as the Grand Marshal. All are encouraged to come out to enjoy an evening filled with lights, laughter, and joy as Main Street Elizabethton celebrates the Christmas season.

Main Street will provide additional updates as needed, which can be found on their Facebook page listed above and local media outlets.

Greeneville, TN TRACY BYRD CONCERT November 14th @ 7:30 pm Do the “Watermelon Crawl” with Tracy Byrd at the Traditional Country Troubador. Byrd will play a few of his hits and favorites. Tickets are on sale now for Orchestra: $40 I Mezzanine: $35 I Balcony: $30. For more information and ticket sales visit: https://www.npacgreeneville.com/events/tracybyrd.

Jonesborough, TN HOLIDAY MAKERS FAIRE November 4th @ 10:00 am-4:00 pm Mill Spring Makers Market is so excited to host our first Holiday Edition of the Makers Faire. There’s no better way to shop local than with the area’s best handmade makers. Featuring over 40 local artists, you’re sure to find unique gifts for those on your list...and maybe even something for yourself! Taking place along Spring Street and Mill Spring Park in Downtown Jonesborough with demonstrations, food, merriment and more!

MADE AROUND HERE MARKET CRAFT SHOW November 12th @ 10:00 am-5:00 pm At Made Around Here Market, attendees will discover pieces from local and regional artisans and crafters, as well as residents from surrounding states. All items are handmade, some examples include pottery, paintings and varied mediums, photographs, screen-printed items, seasonal décor, holiday gifts, leather items and woodcarvings. Admission is free but donations will be accepted.

Kingsport, TN SHOP & HOP: THE NOVEMBER OPEN HOUSE November 4th It’s almost our favorite time of the year again! Kick start the holiday season at our November Shop & Hop: The Holiday Open House on November 4th. It’s never too early to begin checking off that Christmas Wish List, and what better way to do it than in Downtown Kingsport.

Bristol, TN

PICK A SIDE STUPID-COMEDY SHOW November 4th @ 7:00 This is a comedy debate show. It is a silly debate, it is not political. Any audience members that would like to participate are encouraged to let the host know before the start of the show as there is some potential for audience participation. There will be a small bar with beer, seltzer, cider, soda and snacks. More information and tickets: https://www.blueridgecomedy.com/shows/154526 AN APPALACHIAN CHRISTMAS November 19th-21st @ 10:00 am-4:00 pm / 3:00 pm Vintage Market Days® is an upscale vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. Vintage Market Days® events are so much more than a flea market. More information at https://vintagemarketdays.com/market/tri-cities-tennessee/.

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DOWNTOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS-SWEET TREATS & DRINKS GUIDE November 13th Start off the holiday season with a trip down candy cane lane as you try out all the sweet treats & drinks from a variety of our downtown businesses. Make sure to grab your “Sweet Treats & Drinks Guide” on the FB Page. More information and event at https://fb.me/e/2JFYydvJA.

HOLIDAYS ON ICE November 26th-January 2nd Whether with family, friends or on a date you’ll love skating in the heart of Downtown Knoxville: Market Square! Join us at Holidays on Ice presented by Home Federal Bank to make memories that will last long after the holidays are over. Enjoy skating under the stars and twinkling lights while listening to music every night. There may even be a sighting by our Holidays on Ice Mascot, ‘Peppermint Panda’! More information at www.facebook.com/KnoxvillesHolidaysonIc.

EVENTS

HOLIDAY WINDOW WALK & SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY November 27th As you head downtown to shop small & support local businesses for Small Business Saturday, this year we are adding a Holiday Window Walk Contest to the shopping fun! From Nov 6th – Nov 26th downtown merchants will be decorating their window(s) for the holidays! Finally, from Nov 27th – Nov 30th, shoppers will be able to vote for the Best Holiday Window displays as they shop & stroll in Downtown.

The winners of the contest will be announced on Dec 1st. More info on their Facebook page: www.fb.me/e/YNfar55m HOLIDAY WINDOW WALK & SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY November 27th HO! HO! HO! It’s time to Jingle & Mingle Downtown at our Holiday Event of the Year!

Join us for a full day of Christmas fun in Downtown Kingsport on Saturday, December 4th starting at noon. Events include: Shop & Hop, Santa’s Workshop in Glen Bruce Park, Very Merry Food Truck Rally, Jingle Jams on Broad, Jingle & Mingle Christmas Parade, Christmas Tree Lighting. More info: www.downtownkingsport.org/downtown-events/

Knoxville, TN 55TH ANNUAL FOOTHILLS CRAFT GUILD November 5th @ 10:00 am-6:00 pm Hosted at the Knoxville Civiv Center, the 55th Annual Foothills Craft Guild fall show will feature handmade crafts in clay, fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, natural materials, painting, paper/printmaking, photography, and wood. Local authors and a Make-It-Take-It area for adults and children. Tickets are $8 CASH or $9 CC at the door. Face Masks are RECOMMENDED. More information at: www.foothillscraftguild.net/fall-show.html

REMEMBERING JOHN DENVER: A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION STARRING TED VIGIL! December 2nd-5th @ Various Times Ted Vigil will pay tribute to John Denver in this special Christmas celebration at the Open Chord. There will be five showings either starting at 4:00 pm or 8:00 pm. For more information on the concert or to purchase tickets, visit :www.masskus.com/johndenvertribute.html.

Bristol, VA BRISTOL OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK November 6th @ 10:00 am-12:00 pm The Out of the Darkness Walk is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support. It unites our communities and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental illness have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about. More information on their Facebook page: www.fb.me/e/1PE58bLib.

DAVID WILCOX CONCERT November 7th @ 4:00 pm MASSKUS Productions is proud to present Cleveland-born David Wilcox at Knoxville’s finest Listening Room, THE OPEN CHORD. He will perform on Sunday November 7, on a special matinee performance beginning at 4pm. Tickets are $26.50 and available on-line at ​www.prekindle.com/event/17966-davidwilcox-knoxville, or by stopping by THE OPEN CHORD, ALL THINGS MUSIC STORE located at 8502 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN. www.openchordmusic.com DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS MICKEY AND FRIENDS November 11th-14th @ Various Times Join Mickey and his Disney friends as your favorite stories come to life at Disney On Ice! See all of the classic characters, as well as new friends. All guests age 2 & older are required to have a ticket. No costumes for guests 14 & older. Share every enchanting moment! An epic adventure awaits as your favorite Disney stories come to life on ice. For more information visit: knoxvillecoliseum.com.

STARRY NIGHT KNOXVILLE RACE TO CURE THE KIDS November 14th | Various Times Starry Night Knoxville’s 6th annual race to cure the kids! We have 3 choices: 8.5k, 5k, or 1 mile walk/ run!

This will be a live race at Ijams Nature center with the School of Rock playing around 3 p.m. along with food trucks for spectators. Join us in raising money and awareness for pediatric brain tumor patients by supporting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and our local East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. More information and registration at www.runsignup.com/Race/TN/Knoxville/StarryNightKnoxville.

THE BLUE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS JAM December 11th @ 6:00 pm Our third annual musical Christmas fund raiser and toy drive to benefit the patients and families served

by Blue Mountain Therapy. Blue Mountain Therapy is a therapeutic service provider, offering all types of therapies for patients of every age, including children with developmental delays and disabilities.

Abingdon, VA THE HOLIDAY MARKET AT THE MARTHA Nov. 19, 20, 21; Nov. 26, 27, 28; Dec. 3, 4, 5 Abingdon welcomes you with all the warmth of downtown and all the charm of the historic Martha Washington Inn & Spa. Find incredible handmade gifts and stocking stuffers from some of the very best Virginia Highlands Festival vendors. Friday: 10 am–5 pm, Saturday: 10 am– 7 pm, Sunday: 10 am–5 pm. Santa has plans to come on Saturdays and there will be Christmas music at designated times. More information and specifics: www.vahighlandsfestival.com/holiday-market.

ABINGDON HOLIDAY LIGHTS DRIVING TOUR December 1st-January 3rd The Town of Abingdon is encouraging residents and business owners to decorate for the holidays as the town plans to host a Christmas lights driving tour. Abingdon’s Holiday Lights Driving Tour will run from Dec. 1 through Jan. 3.

CHRISTMAS PARADE December 4th @ 6:00 pm Abingdon is absolutely lovely at Christmastime, and we hope you’ll come be a part of our Christmas Parade. Stop by and see Santa, as well and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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HARKERS ISLAND, NC

Christmas is Coming to Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center!

Vermadel Nienstedt

Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center has been preserving the heritage and culture of Down East Carteret County for 30 years.

Located on Harkers Island in Carteret County, the Museum is dedicated to preserving and fostering waterfowl carving and the sport of waterfowling as well as capturing the way of life of the family fishing industries and boat building that has existed in this area for generations.

The schedule of the season’s events is listed below. To find out more information on the Museum, upcoming events and to shop the store, visit the web site -www.coresound.com.

November 19 – Gallery of Trees, Telling Our Story Once again, local families and organizations will be telling their story with beautiful handmade decorations on crab pot trees throughout the Christmas is Core Sound’s season – it’s museum gallery and education hall. a time to celebrate home, family, cold The trees will be on display through north winds, duck blinds and decoys January. and deep connections to the local heritage!

November 27 – Christmas Market The Christmas Market will be held at the Museum’s outreach store at 806 Arendell Street in Morehead City.

Opening at 8 am with hot coffee, biscuits and cinnamon rolls, our 2021 Christmas Market will feature crafts from across Eastern North Carolina with gifts, decorations and handmade

products. Local food trucks will make this the place to be in downtown Morehead City.

December 3-5 – Waterfowl Weekend December 3 – A night of Christmas decorations all over the Island including the museum. Carvers, artists and crafters will be on hand outside, the Gallery of Trees will be on full display, the Museum Store will be open for business and the Carolina Decoy Collector’s Display will be in place.

December 4-5 – Tailgating will begin at 9:00 a.m. Saturday with carvers, collectors, artists, photographers, and crafters to help you with your Christmas shopping. The Museum Store will be open 9 to 9 with crab pot trees and a new collection of Christmas collectibles.

Core Sound Crab Pot Christmas Trees By Fisherman Creations 2019

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Our partners, the Carolina Decoy Collectors Association will host a special exhibit for the weekend and educational opportunities will be back with a focus on oyster season – past and present! Saturday afternoon will feature special music that you will not want to miss!

NEWLAND, NC

BLACK Shopping FRIDAY Black Friday is one the biggest shopping days of the year, and is often the perfect time to begin holiday shopping and save money on incredible deals. Thousands of eager shoppers will leave their homes in the early morning hours and wait in lines at stores in order to grab the best prices of the season, while retailers will be gearing up to lure the greatest number of shoppers. Surviving the day unscathed and arriving home with discounts galore involves having a game plan for success. * Know the prices of the items you want to buy. Scour advertisements in advance of Black Friday to gauge the regular retail prices for common items, including electronics.

Comparison shop for the best prices and make notes to help you when Black Friday arrives. * Understand the fine print of "door busters." Door buster sales are meant to get shoppers into stores, where retailers hope shoppers will make additional purchases while taking advantage of advertised deals.

If door buster items are all you're looking for, read the advertisements carefully, noting the start and end time of the discounts and if there will be limited quantities. In addition, determine if there is a special return policy for sale items purchased on Black Friday. * Dress for comfort. Wear sensible, comfortable shoes and clothing when shopping. Leave a large purse at home and opt for something compact that can be draped securely over your shoulder and body to navigate the crowds. Keep your coat in the car or make use of a coat check service if available. Dress in layers if you will be waiting outside for stores to open.

MAKE THE MOST OF IT!

This way you can shed clothing as the mercury rises or when you get inside. * Arrive together but shop separately. The "divide and conquer" method of shopping allows everyone in your shopping party to score good deals. Split up shopping tasks and then head to different areas of the store. Share and collect your purchases when you meet up after the rush. * Make a list and stick to it. Buyers' remorse come Saturday morning is common for those who have overextended their budgets and purchased items they did not need. Know ahead of time what you plan to purchase and do not veer off course. * Scout the stores ahead of time.

Visit the stores where you plan to shop a few days before Black Friday.

Learn the layout of the store and where everything is located. Try on certain clothes or read over the labels of big-ticket items you plan to buy. Knowing where items are located and having all of your information in advance will cut down on the time it takes to find items on Black Friday. * Don't overlook nontraditional stores. Many other stores, from pharmacies to supermarkets, stock items apart from food and toiletries.

Consider taking advantage of their sales for some Black Friday deals. * Park off campus. Mall parking lots can get just as crowded as the stores themselves. Save yourself time and the stress of finding a spot by parking near the store but away from the crowd. * Clean out your car prior to shopping. Make room in the trunk or cargo area for all of your purchases.

For those who will be buying large, heavy items, find out if the store will ship the merchandise or will hold it aside until you can take it home.

Understand that some stores will not hold items and enlist a friend or spouse to help you pack purchases into the car.

compromise your decision-making abilities. Bring a snack so that you can recharge your body and continue shopping.

* Promptly store receipts. Designate a folder or envelope for all of your receipts to keep them organized and handy. * Pack a small snack and drink. It's easy to become dehydrated and hungry waiting in long lines, which can

* Leave the kids at home. Black Friday shopping can be stressful, and children can easily get lost or bumped around in the fray. It is safer to leave them home so you can focus your full attention on shopping. * Know when to call it quits. Establish a firm cut-off time for ending your shopping excursion. This way you can head home, rest and sort through your purchases.

Christmas Shop Features • Christmas Decorations • Homemade Sweets, • Coffee Shop • Ice Cream Treats & More!

See Santa!

Beginning the day

Friday 5-7PM after Thanksgiving!

Saturday 12-4pm Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Farm Open Mid-November!

Fresh-cut Frasier Firs, Wreaths, Garland, & Fresh Greenery!

Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Beginning the day after Thanksgiving Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm Sunday 1pm-6pm

SHOP & SWEETS

4699 Linville Falls Hwy Newland, NC 28657 828-737-9313

www.SnowyMountainChristmasShopandSweets.com NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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l a c o L p o h S

This Holiday Season

No more than ever, your local community needs you. It's no secret that COVID-19 related closures and restrictions have impacted our country's many small businesses in numerous challenging ways.

The global pandemic has thrown one too many hurdles in the path of nearly every small business owner, constantly testing their ability to profitably adjust their business model and keep their passion alive month after month.

With the holiday season coming into full swing, it's more important than ever to keep our small businesses top of mind when tackling our shopping lists. Sure, every television channel or social media you flip through right now is filled with catchy holiday advertisements from the chain stores, promising the biggest and best sales of the season. And the immense rise of online shopping (conglomerate Amazon) has helped us loose sight of those right here in our back doors.

While there's no arguing that online shopping can be convenient, what "warm and fuzzy" feeling do you get from that type of transaction? Does easiness trump the emotional benefits you'd feel from contributing to someone's livelihood during a terribly trying time by shopping local? The ability we all have to support our hometown's brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, cousins, neighbors, friends — all the people who make our

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community a wonderful place to live — will always be worth the collective time and effort in our book. And here's why.

Shopping local helps grow your community's economy.

According to the American Independent Business Alliance (AIBA), when you shop local, approximately 48% of the cost of your purchase is recirculated back into the local economy. When you shop at a chain store, that number drops to less than 14%.

Instead of taking your hard-earned dollars to a billion-dollar chain store, think about how beneficial it would be to invest them in your local economy and help support a small business owner’s family. We can all agree that every dollar helps, especially around Christmas time during an ongoing pandemic.

Shopping local gives your community’s creatives much-needed exposure.

Our small community is full of incredibly talented artists who can’t afford shop space until their business takes off, leading them to partner with local businesses to sell their products at a storefront. So when you shop local, you give those craftspeople the exposure and funding they need to grow their business.

Picture giving your mom the gift of a handmade wreath, piece of jewelry, or painting she’s always talked about this Christmas. She’ll feel extra special

knowing you got her something personalized that just can’t be found anywhere else!

Shopping local means healthier and more tasty food options.

Did you know that fruits and vegetables contain the most nutrition when they are ripe? According to Greenopedia, a healthy food blog, this means that by the time they travel across the country to your table, they’re depleted of the key nutrients they once had if bought at peak freshness from a local farmers market or supermarket. When you shop and eat locally, you’re getting a healthier and tastier version of the same product found at a chain store. Better believe your belly will thank you at next dinner when you’re feasting on fresh, roasted vegetables you bought from the farm up the road. Or look for restaurants that use local meats & produce.

Shopping local means you get personalized service and products.

Good customer service can be hard to find at the big chain stores during the holidays due to retail employees often being stretched too thin in their work schedules. Some of the biggest perks of shopping local are the personalized customer service and the unique, handcrafted items you come across. Small

business owners don’t build their own business from scratch just for kicks - they do it because they are passionate about keeping their products and services exclusive to their community. Many times, small business owners are able to craft and personalize a product just for you - a service that really comes in handy around the holiday season when you’re searching for one-of-a-kind gifts for the special people in your life (cue mom’s face when she sees her handmade wreath).

Shopping local means giving back to charities in your community.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) conducted a survey a couple years ago and found that 75 percent of small business owners donate some portion of their profits — about six percent on average — to charitable organizations each year. Many times, those charities are found right in your community. So every time you shop local, a portion of your dollars may also be donated to a local charity, especially helpful during the ongoing pandemic.

Shopping local delivers the best customer service.

When you buy local, you experience the perk of seeing your salesperson faceto-face, to help you with future orders or to customize an order you’ve already

placed with them. With many chain stores, you won’t get that level of personalized, tailored-to-you service. You may be directed to an online portal or phone recording, warning you that hold times are “longer than usual,” which is enough to make you want to throw your phone at the wall. And you don’t need that kind of stress during the holidays. In addition, many local business owners have personal connections between each other, allowing them to deliver you exclusive deals and recommendations for other needs you may have. And who doesn’t love a good deal around the holidays when money might be tight?

Put your money where your home is.

If all of these convincing points weren’t enough to persuade you to shop local not only during the holiday season but year ‘round, consider this: Put your money where your home is. Whatever you consider to be “home” - a cozy one bedroom apartment, mom and dad’s guesthouse, or the place you spent years saving up for and finally own - put your money there. You live in a community full of hidden gems that need your support now more than ever. Help grow your community by shopping local and give the hard-working small business owners in your town the opportunity to thrive beyond the pandemic.

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INDIAN TRAIL & SPRUCE PINE, NC

A Real Treasure 125 Locust Str Spruce Pine, NC Open Tue-Fri: 10-5, Saturday: 10-4 Closed Sunday & Monday

In February of 2019, friends Cheryl Buchanan and Karen Bomar set out to create a Unique Consignment store in Spruce Pine, NC. They call it Treasures In The Pines!

This unique store has unique finds, wood bowls and clocks from local woodworkers.

Silver Jewelry, local paintings by two different artists.

They also have Antiques, Repurposed items, lots of Books which is unique to find, handmade signs, soap, jams local honey .

There is a baby boutique, pottery, lots of unique glassware and lots lots more.

The first week of November will be getting ready for the Christmas season.

So plan to Visit Treasures In The Pines and bring your Pets because we are a Dog Friendly Store.

828-520-1423

We are open Tuesday-Friday 10-5 and Saturdays 10-4. Closed Sunday and Mondays.

TREAT YO SELF

5859 W Hwy 74 Indian Trail, NC 28079 | 704-234-8049

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| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

Located in the center of downtown Spruce Pine, Poppy’s Wildcraft is an eclectic little slice of heaven in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

This unique emporium store features an all-natural approach to health and wellness, offering a wideranging selection of books, candles, therapeutic grade essential oils, carrier oils, certified organic dried herbs, locally handmade jewelry, natural & organic foods, premium incense, soaps & lotions crafted inhouse, and much more!

SPRUCE PINE, NC

“Pop” in this Holiday Shopping Season products that are crafted on site daily, to fresh organic foods and organic dried herbs, Poppy’s has something for everyone. “We pride ourselves on filling a niche in the community that was lacking before we opened. We offer items that locals used to have to travel elsewhere to buy, such as candles, gemstones, incenses, and new age metaphysical books.”

Poppy’s Wildcraft is based on the belief that crafting a healthy lifestyle begins with nature’s goodness. We are very proud to serve our community by providing high-quality products that heal, nurture, and soothe the body, mind, and soul using only Mother Nature’s finest ingredients

The business was born from owner Kim Hageman’s fond memories of growing up with her grandparents and the great outdoors. “The business was named in memory of my grandfather, Poppy. He taught me my love of gardening and plants.

The elderberry syrup that we make on site is named in memory of my grandmother, Nanny. The shop is a Our Amish Made Polyresin Outdoor Furniture is: way to honor them and the values that they instilled in me.”

More than just a health food store or an herbal shop, Poppy’s Wildcraft carries a little bit of everything. From personal care

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279 Oak Ave • Spruce Pine, NC Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

• CBD Oils, Salves & Vapes • Certified Organic Herbs • Organic Foods • Locally Handcrafted Jewelry • Aromatherapy & Herbal Consultations • Crystals & Gemstones • Crystal Healing Therapy • All-Natural Personal Care Products • Premium Incense & Smudging Supplies • Books & CDs • Home Decor, Gifts, & More

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swtradingcompany.com

Take a virtual tour of the store & watch a video about store & owners 279 Oak Ave. Spruce Pine, NC 2877 828-765-8261 Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm

209 Locust Street, Suite A • Spruce Pine, NC 28777 828-520-1253 • poppyswildcraft.com

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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Contact Trevor Whitson To Preview ALL Our Listings 14 |

| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

HOT SPRINGS, NC

Barn Memories What to do with all those beans?

I am Roy Waldroup. I grew up on a small mountain farm of probably less than 100 acres in Bluff, North Carolina.

On the farm we had two horses, Lou and Old Fred. We had milk cows. We usually milked two cows at the same time and they would have calves. We had chickens of course and always two hogs. So part of the farm life was my brother and I, he’s two and a half years older than me, and we had chores to do but what a wonderful thing it was.

Planting was always the fun thing.

We would plant corn. We would plant a garden of course because mom canned. Let me tell you one thing, I got into the mischief. Mom gave us a quart of bean seeds, cornfield beans, and said plant these boys I’m going to the house to cook dinner. We planted and we planted and we realized that being no girls in the family we’d had to end up picking those beans, stringing those beans and having to help can those beans and mom always had the cellar full.

What will we do with this many beans? Well we have to plant them, mom said so. So we planted and we planted and then we planted enough to know we’re going to have enough beans for the canning season so we dug holes and planted all the extra seeds in those two holes. Those seeds that we planted in the holes came up. Biggest bunch of beans you ever seen in one hole and mom said “what meant this?” We had to confess... we had ‘planted the beans’.

I remember in high school mom and dad got a job at Hot Springs working and they were on second shift so my job and my brothers was to milk the cows in the morning because they got home probably at one o’clock in the morning.

We got up early and in the winter time by lantern. We didn’t have electricity in the barn. We would go and milk the cows. We’d take turns, I would milk one morning and he the next morning and we would milk those cows and then we had to get ready to go to school.

We walked in those days. The bus was coming half way and we only had to walk three quarters of the mile. And the cows were hard to find if they didn’t shake their heads and ring their bell. We would go to the backside, and the south side, and if you had trouble finding the cows we’d miss the bus but we had options. We could go down the Steve Branch, one mile or so down the stream through the woods and we’d catch a bus at the last stop but then in the fall of the year, with all the colors and everything it was such a beautiful drive.

The most enjoyable memories of my life was growing up on the farm and those things that might appear to be hard was fun and that’s why I have such a good memory of it, because it was such a grand time and I told someone the other day, if someone would give me a million dollars to take away the memories of growing up on the farm in the happy times.

Were there hard times? Of course there were but that was so incidental compared to other good memories.

For more stories and information visit AppalachianBarns.org This story as told by Roy Waldroup. It is the transcript from a photo/audio YouTube recording produced by us and posted on our website www. appalachianbarns.org/barn-memories

Well, we had to plant them so we planted all of them in a couple of holes. Biggest bunch of beans you ever seen in one hole.

Roy Waldroup, on right in photo, was born Jan. 15,1943 in the Bluff community near Hot Springs. Roy tells of hard work and fond memories while growing up on their small Appalachian farm.

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

828-622-7162 BluffMtn.com Monday-Saturday 9:30-5:30 Sunday 10-5

Shop with us for Holiday Gifts & Stocking Stuffers!

Something for the hiker, family, friend or yourself -Kuhl -Teva, -Chaco -Natural Foods -Toys -Maps/Books

& Local Information @ Bluff Mountain Outfitters

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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WAYNESVILLE, NC

184 N. Main Str Waynesville, NC 28746

828-646-1403 Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 1pm - 5pm Selling - Buying - Trading

Shelton House celebrates the Holiday Season with the Opening of the “Tinsel Trail” plus an “Appalachian Family Christmas” Shelton House – History, Heritage and Crafts presents an “Old Fashioned Appalachian Christmas, and opening of the Tinsel Trail”, Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 5:00 pm.

Come join Shelton House for a Holiday celebration with a visit from Santa, Hot Chocolate and other treats, Caroling, and the opening of the Tinsel Trail. The festivities will begin at 5:00pm on Sunday, December 5, 2021. Trees will line the Historic Shelton House sidewalk from December 5 through January 1 and be lit nightly!

We hope you will visit us for this free community Holiday event. The Event is Free to the public but donations, to help support the preservation of Shelton House, are always appreciated!

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If you are interested in decorating a tree for our Tinsel Trail in memory or honor of someone special this season OR if you would like the opportunity to advertise your business, organization or club, please email dannehl@sheltonhouse.org for more information.

Also, don’t forget the Shelton House Gift Shop will be open for your Holiday Shopping needs Thursday, Friday , and Saturday through December 18th. All crafts are made by local artisans and 30% of the sales helps support the preservation of Shelton House!

| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

g n i k n u D

WEST JEFFERSON & BURNSVILLE, NC

Best Cookies for

Recipe & photos from www.persnicketyplates.com

Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookie INGREDIENTS

1 cup Sugar – granulated white sugar 3/4 lb Butter – unsalted, at room temperature 1 tspn Vanilla Extract – it’s pricey, but use real vanilla extract (not imitation), if you can 3 1/2 cups Flour – all purpose white flour 1/4 tspn Salt 1 cup Chocolate – Ghirardelli baking chips or whatever chocolate cips or chopped chocolate you have on hand 1 tspn Coconut Oil – to thin the chocolate (optional) Sprinkles – optional, but fun

INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until just combined, then mix in vanilla. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt then add it to the butter mixture.

Mix on low speed until ingredients start to form a solid dough. This will take quite a few minutes to come together. Once a dough has formed, take out of bowl and place on a lightly floured surface.

Shape into a flat disk, wrap in plastic, and chill in fridge for 30 minutes. Use a rolling pin to roll dough into approximately 1/2” thick rectangle.

Then use a sharp knife to cut dough into 1” wide rectangles or use cookie cutters to make shapes.

Place cookies on prepared baking and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are just brown. Once cookies are completely cooled, place chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave safe bowl and microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir and continue to heat for 15 second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Dunk half of each cookie into the chocolate and sprinkle with your favorite topping. Place on a piece of wax paper until completely cooled.

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. Burnsville, nc 28714

•Hard Drive Data Recovery services •windows & mac os restoration largest selection of laptop and desktop computers systems in Yancey-mitchell & •computer Upgrades surrounding counties.

•FREE INITIAL Diagnosis •Networking FOR home & business •Car Stereo, Speaker & SATELLITE RADIO Installations •IPad, cell phone, TABLET & LapTop Screen Repairs •Computer Recycling SERVICES •APPLE SALES & SERVICE •security systems sales & INSTALLATIONS •service repairs or home or business

WE OFFER ONE-ON-ONE TRAINING FOR ALL YOUR TECHNOLOGY NEEDS! pcsolutionsllc@gmail.com

-----------------------------Office: 828.536.5095 -----------------------------Cell: 828.467.6075

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Est. 1999

347 e US hwy 19e byp bUrNSville, NC 28714

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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BURNSVILLE, NC

Merry Christmas& Happy New Year!

HOME OF THE WORLD’S GREATEST RECIPES...

GOOD FOOD, FAMILY, AND FRIENDS

MON- SAT: 10AM-8PM CLOSED SUNDAY

828-678-3388 394 EAST MAIN STREET

BURNSVILLE, NC

East Yancey Middle School Friendsgiving Dinner

BUBBASGOODEATS.COM

After 6+ years here in Burnsville, I have had to make an incredibly hard decision. I am now living in Erwin, TN and I have decided to move Pappy’s to there. On December 2nd I will move all sales to 99 Berkshire Dr, Erwin, TN. So if there was something you wanted to get for someone for Christmas you need to get it soon. Thank you for all your support! pappysgunsmithin@gmail.com

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| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

Article By East Yancey Middle School Principal Tamara Presnell

Faculty and staff at East Yancey Middle School are busy preparing for our annual Friendsgiving Dinner which will be held on December 11 from 5:00-7:00. This tradition was born from a desire for our school to give back to all the families and community members, who show us so much support throughout the school year.

During our Friendsgiving Dinner, faculty and staff help serve a traditional turkey and ham Thanksgiving dinner along with all the fixings. We provide drinks and dessert as well. A local restaurant, Bubba’s Good Eats, supplies us with all the food and helps with the preparation.

While we often receive positive feedback from families who attend, I believe the benefits we have gained as a faculty are immeasurable. This is an opportunity to spend time with our families without all the normal school constraints. We are able to form and strengthen relationships that benefit everyone, especially the students.

Sometimes we meet families that we have never met before and may not have had an opportunity to meet otherwise.

We get to fellowship with the ones who send us their most precious commodities each day.

Eating a meal together has been The event is open to all East Yancey scientifically proven to provide students and anyone they wish to developmental boosts, bonding bring with them. There time, better grades, and improved is no cost for families; we simply physical health. ask for them to show up and have a great time.

For one evening, all is right in the world and we are able to Through a local coat drive, we are come together as a school and able to provide coats and winter community, while enjoying food, apparel for anyone who may need fellowship and entertainment! it.

Quilt-N-Code has partnered with Yancey County DSS to provide Love Bugs to local foster youth.

The Love Bug Project was created by a non-profit organization, Creativity Shell, encouraging children though classes that teach sewing, arts, cooking, building, and other creative trades. Kids mental health has been tested and Love Bugs might just become the only Bug they want to catch. Did you know that most children entering the foster system only have enough

possessions to fit in a single bag or pillow case? A child receiving a Love Bug receives a stuffed friend as well as reinforcement that our local community cares about them.

Quilt-N-Code is located behind McDonald’s. Find out more by calling 536-5400 or checking out the website at www.quilt-n-code. com.

BURNSVILLE, NC

shops, restaurants, and sightseeing to please the whole family.

Join us for a fun new Block of the Month! Follow us on Youtube, Facebook & Instagram.

Catch the Bug! The quaint little town of Burnsville, NC is the perfect spot for a holiday getaway and Quilt-N-Code has a wide selection of gifts for the quilter/sewer in your family.

Quilt kits, kits for kids, fabric galore, notions and great family friendly service make Quilt-NCode in Burnsville a one stop shop.

Burnsville also features a variety of

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ry Mer as stm Chri

Sandy’s Hair & Gifts 131 E. Main Street Burnsville, NC 28714

828.682.9158

Open: Mon-Sat 8am-5pm Closed: Sunday We have all kinds of gift options for every woman on your list!

828-284-1665 We have Afterpay and now Shop Pay! Both are interest free, No credit check. No interest- 4 easy payments

619 W. Hwy. 19E Bypass Burnsville, NC 28714

OPEN: MON-FRI 10AM-5PM SATURDAY 10AM-2PM

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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KNIGSPORT, TN

Celebrating 42 Years of Artisans and Crafters in Kingsport

Join us for the Christmas Connection – Artistic Creations Fair The beloved Christmas Connection is celebrating 42 years of bringing some of the region’s best arts and crafts vendors to Kingsport.

Whether you are refreshing your home décor, trying to find that perfect gift, or treating your tastebuds, the Christmas Connection is here to connect you just in time for the holiday festivities. You can find unique gifts and support artisans in our region. Free admission all weekend!

As the weather turns colder, the Civic Auditorium will be filled with a warm and festive holiday glow to put customers in a holiday mood for shopping. The sights, sounds and smells of Christmas will surround

shoppers as they shop from the region’s best craftspeople, artisans, artists and creatives. A few of the items you will find include Country Crafts, Home Décor, Fine Woodcrafts, Leathercrafts, Handmade Soaps and Lotions, Candles, Jewelry, Christmas Ornaments, Stained Glass, Wheel Thrown Pottery, Fabric Crafts, Needlework, American Girl Doll Clothing, Pet Accessories and Clothing, Dichroic Glass, Handmade Greeting Cards and Paper Art, Snowmen, Santas, Candied Pecans, Baked Goods and much more!

For this merry 42nd celebration, the vendors will be keeping the event hopping, and music will be serenading the Christmas customers as they shop. On the Main Stage you will find the Christmas Connection Café, serving up country favorites. Outside the front entrance make sure to stop by the food trucks to satisfy your salty, savory or sweet taste buds. We will also welcome the Kingsport Ballet to the entry foyer with their homemade baked goods for sale.

Whether you have been enjoying the Christmas Connection for years or you are trying it out for the very first time, this artisan and craft fair has something for you! Kingsport’s Annual Christmas Connection, a free admission event, is to be held November 12 and 13 at the Kingsport Civic Auditorium and is sponsored by the Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts. Staff will be working with the Civic Auditorium and following all the current protocols carefully. There will be socially distanced booths among other safety precautions.

Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts is excited and blessed to be able to continue this tradition for its 42nd consecutive year serving the artists and the community. Thank you for supporting your local artisans!

DATES/HOURS: Friday Nov. 12 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday Nov. 13 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

For more information on the Christmas Connection event, please visit www.

EngageKingsport.com or call 423-3928414.

• AMERICAN REVOLUTION • CIVIL WAR • FLAGS • FIREARMS • EDGED WEAPONS • ACCOUTREMENTS • WORLD WAR I • WORLD WAR II • VIETNAM • UNIFORMS

WWW.WARROOMRELICS.COM WWW.AKINSAMERICANA.COM

Tue.-Sat. 10am to 6pm War Room Relics 22 |

| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

615-717-7792

Buy Sell Consignment

Mickey Kiser, Owner warroomrelics.com Mwkiser07@gmail.com 219 E. Center Street Kingsport, TN 37660

KINGSPORT, TN

y r a m e s o R

Fresh Cranberry Vodka Spritzers with

K ingsport Ballet

presents

Recipe & photos from the Wander Lust Kitchen

If you’ve never tried a fresh cranberry vodka cocktail, here’s your chance! All you need is a bag of cranberries, a bottle of vodka, and a blender. For this recipe I’ve added homemade rosemary simple syrup to create a festive holiday cocktail!

incidentally super gorgeous and fun to bring to a party. This vodka cranberry cocktail would also make a lovely gift — just look how pretty the bottles are with some simple twine and a sprig of rosemary!

the n u t c r ac k e r

Don’t hate me, but I wasn’t even going to share this vodka cranberry recipe with you. But here’s what’s in the cranberry drink: fresh (homemade!) cranberry juice, freshly infused cranberry vodka, rosemary simple syrup, and a touch of sparkling water.

INGREDIENTS 4 cups fresh cranberries, plus more for garnish 1 cup vodka 1/2 cup white sugar 6 sprigs rosemary, plus more for garnish 8 ounce sparkling water 4 cups ice

VA L E R I A S I N YAV S K AYA , A R T I S T I C D I R E C T O R

I just love this combination of tart cranberries and fragrant rosemary. It’s absolutely perfect for the holidays! This works best if you plan ahead by starting this cranberry vodka recipe the night before. You begin by tossing some fresh cranberries and water in a blender and pulverizing them. I left this mixture in the fridge overnight for maximum infusion, but I bet you could get away with less time than that if you’re in an incredible rush.

Pour this mixture through a fine mesh strainer and collect the juice — you should have two cups.

Return all that pulpy goodness to the blender and pour in a cup of vodka. Blend it again, then strain the vodka from the pulp (no need to wait this time – alcohol is an excellent flavor extractor!).

To make the rosemary simple syrup, just combine some sugar, water, and rosemary sprigs in a little pot and boil a minute or two until the sugar is dissolved.

Mix the juice, infused vodka, and rosemary syrup together, then divide it into ice-filled rocks glasses and top with sparkling water, keep the elements separate and if you’d rather prepare drinks one at a time. This cranberry rosemary cocktail recipe fills three 8.5-ounce hermetic flasks, which are

INSTRUCTIONS Place the cranberries in the pitcher of a blender along with two cups of water. Blend on high until completely pureed with no large chunks remaining. Refrigerate overnight to infuse.

Strain the liquid from the cranberry mixture; you should collect two cups of juice.

Meanwhile, place 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 6 sprigs of fresh rosemary in a small saucepan set over medium heat. Bring to a boil; boil until sugar has dissolved. Turn off heat and allow to cool.

Remove rosemary sprigs and discard.

Return the pulp to the blender pitcher along with the cup of vodka. Blend well, strain, and mix the vodka with the collected juice to make three cups of liquid. Stir in the cooled rosemary syrup.

Divide the ice into eight 8-ounce rocks glasses (1/2 cup each). Top each glass with just shy of a 1/4 cup of the cranberry mix (3 and 3/4 ounces).

Top each glass with two ounces of sparkling water.

Stir gently, garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs.

DECEMBER 17-19, 2021

Wellmont Performing Arts Center IN COLLABORATION WITH ARTISTIC MOTION, GREENSBORO, NC

TI C K E T S: K I N G S P O R TB A LLE T.O RG CORPORATE SPONSORS

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

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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JONESBOROUGH, TN

Over the river and through the Whether you’re traveling to grandma’s house or just across town, here are some helpful items to pack or just keep in your car at all times.

We are coming to Erwin, TN! Full service Gunsmithing, Gun & Accessory Sales 99 Berkshire Dr. Erwin, TN Thu—Sat, 10:00—6:00 Starting Dec 6th Tue—Sat

• Driver’s License -Duh, I know! But, just in case • Car Registration and Insurance card • Extra Car Key • Phone Number(s) for Roadside Assistance • Spare Tire…with a tire jack and tools • Water Resistant Flashlight- coincidental that car trouble always happens at night, in the rain??

• Wiper Fluid • Portable Gas Container…great peace of mind when the next gas station isn’t for a long time!

And don’t forget to these to keep you safe from snow and ice.

• Ice Scraper • Shovel • Tire Chains - if needed in your area

your trip is long or short, solo or as a family, you’ll want to also have these things in the car.

• Car Phone Chargers • Power Inverter with AC outlets and USB ports • Hands-Free Phone Mount • Portable Charger • Garbage Bag • Roll of Toilet Paper…not all rest stops are created equal • Hand Sanitizer • Body/Baby Wipes • Umbrella Let’s switch gears (couldn’t help myself!) away from the car and think about you and the other people on this road trip.

Keeping everyone in the car happy and relaxed is so important! Snacks, entertainment, and interesting sights won’t be of much help if you’re not comfortable. So, be sure to stock the car with these things you need for a road trip.

Besides these road trip basics, whether

Merry Christmas Y’all!

423-913-8000 123 E. Main St. Jonesborough, TN 37659 www.NoelleDecor.com Perfect gifts for every occasion! Check out our website for FREE Decorating Classes

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| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

• Blanket or Sleeping Bag • Travel Pillow • Sunglasses • Reusable Water Bottle • Water (cheaper to carry with you than buy on the road) • Pain Reliever…headache, body ache, etc.

• Chapstick • Hand Lotion • Towel(s)…sudden rainstorm, someone actually jumps in a lake, etc.

• Mints and/or Gum • Snacks and/or sandwiches

Don’t want to bother the whole car with whatever you’re listening to? Bring headphones and a splitter to share your music, podcast, or audiobook with only those who want it. And, no matter what you’re listening to take it with you with one of these portable speakers

From iSpy to the License Plate game to high-tech gear and gadgets, take your road trip entertainment as seriously as things to pack for a road trip! It can be an all-out sanity saver, especially for families with kids.

Of course, road trip must-haves aren’t all electronic. Non-electronic options are great for all-important laughs, memories, and bonding, not to mention how relaxing it can be to disconnect for a while! Consider these group and family activities to make the time on those long stretches of road fly!

• Loaded Questions • Scavenger Hunt • Mad Libs 104 S. Main Street • Travel Journals and Coloring Greeneville, TN 37743

Unless you have satellite radio, you can almost bet you’ll lose a clear radio signal at least once on your drive. This means it’s all about playlists!

And, whether you want to read in the car, around the campfire, or in your hotel room, save space in the car with a Kindle or download the Kindle App to any device. You can purchase a few books or try Kindle Unlimited free.

NOVEMBER November •6th : The Cleverlys Concert

515 E ELK Avenue • Elizabethton, TN Open Mon-Fri 11-5:30 • Sat 10-6 @DuckCrossingElizabethton

CELEBRATING 4 YEARS OF SEWING & QUILTING IN DOWNTOWN ELIZABETHTON!

www.capitolgreeneville.org

•13th : Jonesborough Rhythm6thExpress The Cleverlys- Concert •19th : Spazmatics Concert 13th- Jonesborough Rhythm Express 19th- Spazmatics - Concert •20th : Blue Plate Special •27th : It’s a Wonderful Life 20th - Blue Plate Special 27th - It's A Wonderful Life St. 104 S Main DECEMBER Greeneville, TN 37743 423-638-1300 •2nd : A Christmas Story www.capitolgreeneville.org •4th :Elf •20th : National Lampoons Christmas Vacation •21st : National Lampoons Christmas Vacation •22nd : Polar Express •23rd : Polar Express •28th : Home Alone

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

Featuring everything from fine furniture, primitive findings, vintage clothing to new home decor items & gifts. You will also find local memorabilia and handmade crafts. Located in the heart of downtown Elizabethton, TN among more than 20 antique/gift stores & local eateries.

GREENEVILLE & ELIZABETHTON, TN

s d o o W

Shop with us this Holiday Season!

December

Holiday Blue Truck Cotton Panel Fabric Now Available!

2nd - A Christmas Story 4th - Elf “Fletcher’s Homemade is a quilt shop and so much more in the heart of 20th- National Lampoons Downtown Elizabethton’s Historic District. We offer: custom sewing, Christmas Vacation 21st - National Lampoons alterations, long arm quilting, Plus classes in quilting and clothing Christmas Vacation construction, high quality cotton fabrics, locally made hand crafts. “ 22nd- Polar Express **Private classes available for groups of three or more adults or kids over 10.

23rd - Polar Express 28th - Home Alone Choose your project and make it a party!

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

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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VONORE & ETTOWAH, TN

Enjoy the Holiday Lights

by Train!

Celebrate the Holidays with a Hiwassee Train Ride! The ride is a round-trip one-hour and 15-minute ride along the beautiful Hiwassee River Gorge. Features of this ride include: writing a letter to Santa, a fresh-baked cookie, and Mrs. Claus’s favorite hot chocolate.

Santa will not be on the train — but you will get to see him!

A keepsake boarding pass and holiday bell will be given to every passenger. Masks are required while on the train.

Or join us for a little after Christmas cheer on board the “Holiday Lights Train.” This ride offers a rare after sundown ride featuring all our festive holiday lights. Be sure to grab a tasty, fresh baked snack from our Depot Deli to enjoy on your ride.

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Make wonderful memories when you visit the North Pole! Our most popular annual event, North Pole Limited train rides have been a family tradition since 1999. During the magical holiday season, our trains take you on an imaginary journey to the North Pole. Along the way, you’re treated to refreshments and storytelling while you write your own personal letter to Santa.

As the North Pole Limited train gently rolls down the rails, a number of lighted displays can be seen outside. NOTE: Santa will not be on the train. He will, however, be visible to passengers at the North Pole. **If you want to sit with another family, you must call 423-894-8028 or email ncooper@tvrail.com

Visit our Beautiful NEW Location!

2802 Essary Dr. Knoxville, TN 37918

865.686.0502 · FountainCityJewelers.com Follow Us on

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021 |

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a t n a S y t ir

MARYVILLE & KNOOXVILLE, TN

Did somebody say

D

No... it’s not what I thought either, a story for another time. Dirty Santa is actually a popular Holiday present swapping game that has gone by several names but the object is still the same. Dirty Santa is a gift exchange game that concentrates on the game itself rather than the present, where “dirty” implies the stealing involved.

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Stealing you say? That’s not very Santa like, I know! Unlike Secret Santa where participants get to know who the receiver will be beforehand, you will never know who will end up with your

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Knoxville, TN 37921

| NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2021

gift with this game.

from the hat or bowl to determine the playing order of the participants

Sound fun? Want to learn how to play?

Well whether it’s played by family, 6. The participants who drew number friends or at work, this is a great game 1 will have to pick a gift and unwrap people from all ages can play! it. *Participants are allowed to gently shake, touch or listen to all the gifts to Let’s begin! inspect them before unwrapping.

1. You should have at least 5 participants to start the game 7. The participant who drew number (Otherwise it’s not fun).

2 can choose to unwrap a new gift OR steal the unwrapped gifts from 2. Predetermine the price range of number 1. gifts to be exchanged such as “around $10”, “under $20”, “above $25”, and so 8. The fashion continues such that on. number 3 can steal from number 1&2 and number 8 can steals from player 3. Every participant must wrap the gift 1 to 7. and place it at a central location. *No 9. Whenever a participant’s gift is marking or label is allowed, and no stolen, he/she shall choose to unwrap one should know the owner of a gift a new gift or steal from someone except the owner himself!” else. Exception: During the first round of stealing where number 2 decides 4. Count the number of participants to steal from number 1, number 1 (let’s say we have 8 participants), cannot steal back from number 2 and then write down numbers 1–8 and can only unwrap a new gift. on different small papers (our FREE printable will do that for you) and put 10. You cannot steal a gift from the them inside a hat or bowl. person who has previously stolen from you. (Too bad for you !)

5. Each participant draws a paper

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11. A gift can only be stolen 3 times.

12. To be fair to player number 1 (so that he’s not left out), after everyone has their turn, participant number 1 gets to choose whether to keep his gift or steal from anyone else.

(Remember rule number 10 & 11).

LET’S GET BACK TO REEFS! been playing the same rules for many years. Try out the fun variations below!

• Have a Theme — Have everyone buy from the same store or getting the same gift category such as ornament gifts, re-gifts from home, DIY gifts or boardgames.

• Head or Tail — Let a coin to decide 13. The game ends when number 1 whether to keep a gift or steal a gift! decides to keep his gift or after all the Head for keeping, tail for stealing! stealing is complete.

• Keep it secret — All the gifts are It’s always fun to add something new wrapped until the end of the game. to the game especially if you have

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KNOXVILLE, TN

B OO KS FOR GI VI N G

Merry Christmas!

865-705-4620

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7240 Kingston Pike, Suite 116 Knoxville, TN 37919 Hours M-Sat 10- 6, Closed Sun

KNOXVILLE, TN

s a m t s i r h C

Let’s make the house smell like

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries • 3 tangerines halved • 3 whole cinnamon sticks • 2 star anise gives a strong black licorice smell. (optional) • 1 teaspoon whole cloves • 1 inch piece fresh ginger • 1 tablespoon vanilla bean + 1 vanilla extract • 1 small branch fresh pine • 1 cup apple cider pomegranate or cranberry juice • water

www.halfbakedharvest.com Instructions Combine all the ingredients in a medium size sauce pot.

Fill the pot with water until it reaches 3/4 the way full.

Place the pot on the stove and bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat to a simmer, adding more water as needed.

I let mine simmer for close to 4 hours and then let it cool over night and simmer again the next day. Just be sure to keep adding more water.

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Where: The Spot 4 Dogs

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Free dog Treats

location: 6923 Harrell Rd Knoxville, Tn 37931 You Are Invited

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.