VIPSEEN July 2019

The Birthplace of Country Music Plays On Also Inside:

DANCING WITH THE TRI-CITIES STARS, WOOFSTOCK, RACKS BY THE TRACKS, UNICOI STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL, LOVE 97.3 FM SUMMER CONCERT SERIES, BLUE PLUM FESTIVAL 2019, AND MUCH MORE

$250,000 in prizes

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VE HI C LE S , J E WELRY, ART, SHO P P ING SP RE E S, A M A RTI N GU ITAR , VACAT IO NS AND C A$ H !

BristolSessionsSuperRaffle.org Buy Your Tickets Today!

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FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker angela@vipseenmag.com

EVENTS

CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker

BRISTOL 11 Bristol Wing War 15 Historic District Preservation Awards 10 Over The Edge Tri-Cities TN VA 12 Red Slipper Gala 13 Woofstock 2019 KINGSPORT 18 Red Shoe Gala 21 Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport

London Gala 22 Visit Kingsport’s Spring Wing Fling 23 Spelldown: Adult Spelling Bee 24 An Evening with Dr. Bill Bass 25 2019 Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars 29 Kingsport Chamber 27th Annual

Golf Scramble 30 Racks by the Tracks 2019 32 Salvation Army Ribbon Cutting 33 Relay for Life 7th Annual Car Show 34 Military and First Responders

Appreciation Day 34 National Peace Officers Memorial Day 35 Kingsport Theatre Guild’s Reveal Gala 2019 36 Kingsport Farmers Market Opening Day JOHNSON CITY 36 Run for your Veterans 5k 37 22nd Bogie and Bacall Golf Tournament 42 Dawn of Hope Golf Classic Fundraiser 43 Johnson City War Memorial

Plaque Dedication 44 Reggae, Wine & Shine 48 Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament

to Support NESCC Foundation 49 Walk to End Alzheimer Picnic 50 Second Harvest Annual Golf 2019 52 Johnson City Debutante Ball 53 Children’s Miracle Network Kickoff 2019 54 Run for Your Veterans 2019 55 Gear Headz Giving Back 58 Sesquicentennial Legacy

Park Groundbreaking 60 Blue Plum Festival 2019 62 Girls on the Run Color Splash 5k 63 Tri-Cities PRSA Chapter

Annual Awards Celebration 64 2019 JDRF One Walk Tri-Cities 65 JDRF Springtime BBQ Barn Bash

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares angelica_a@vipseenmag.com EVENTS COORDINATOR Allison Galloway allison@vipseenmag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Nathan Mays

ELIZABETHTON 66 Covered Bridge Fest 67 Covered Bridge 5K 68 Roan Scholar Book Signing

‘‘Peppy, the Easy-Going Racehorse’’ 69 Klein Tools Signing Day 70 Steak and Burger 2019 71 Isaiah117 House Golf Tournament UNICOI 72 Unicoi Strawberry Festival

COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch BEAUTY EDITOR Sherri Jessee GRAPHIC DESIGNER Haley White ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams lark@vipseenmag.com Kirsten Hall kirsten@vipseenmag.com Beth Muncy beth@vipseenmag.com

BLOUNTVILLE 73 Tri-Cities Aviation Celebration Whitney Carr whitney@vipseenmag.com Morgan King morgan@vipseenmag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rachel Burruss Courtney Carberry Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Allison Galloway Lexie Little Alice Salyer Beth Street Haley White

TRI-CITIES 74 Love 97.3 FM Summer Concert Series GRAY 76 Freedom Fest ABINGDON 77 Richard Leigh’s Songwriting Competition 78 Plumb Alley Day 79 Barter Theatre’s Opening Night

and Gala for Shrek the Musical 80 Food City Produce Manager Receives

National Award

PHOTOGRAPHY Rachel Burruss Courtney Carberry Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Allison Galloway Lexie Little Alice Salyer Haley White DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION Barbara Werner DISTRIBUTION Charles Kilgore Martin Kilgore Mark Kilgore Leslie Morgan VIPSEEN, Inc., Tri-Cities 151 E. Main Street, Suite 5 Kingsport, TN 37660 423.398.5321 vipseenmag.com

Contents

DEPARTMENTS JULY 2019

FEATURES

Photography by Nathan Mays Photography

APPALACHIAN MILES FOR SMILES

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COVER STORY THE BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC PLAYS ON

Marty Stuart and Leah Ross Bristol, Tennessee

NONPROFIT PROFILE

Mobile Dental and Eye Clinics Serve East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia Residents

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on the cover

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REVIVING AGING INTERIORS

The Birthplace of Country Music Plays On Also Inside:

DANCING WITH THE TRI-CITIES STARS, WOOFSTOCK, RACKS BY THE TRACKS, UNICOI STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL, LOVE 97.3 FM SUMMER CONCERT SERIES, BLUE PLUM FESTIVAL 2019, AND MUCH MORE

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The Birthplace of Country Music

Plays On

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC/VIRGINIA TOURISM CORPORATION

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cover story VIPSEEN

In

July 1927, Ralph Peer walked up the stairs of the Taylor Christian Hat Company building on State Street in Bristol. The Victor Talking Machine Company talent scout and recording engineer set up for a two-week recording session he hoped would help his company compete in the “old-time,” southern music genre. Outside, summer heat sizzled on the Tennessee-Virginia border, and, while the humidity likely drummed up some rumbles of thunder, it had little to do with the storm brewing in Bristol.

A.P. Carter of Scott County, Virginia, his wife Sara, and his sister-in-law Maybelle blew into town to record towards the end of the two weeks, launching a musical act that took the country by storm in the heyday of radio. With A. P.’s reworking of songs and tunes, Sara’s clear singing voice, and Maybelle’s revolutionary guitar style bringing out the melody, the trio reinvigorated old ballads and shape-note hymns within the genre of “hillbilly music,” the precursor to modern country music.

The circle remains unbroken.

In 2019, country music often returns to its roots. The Carters’ voices and legacy, along with that of other artists of the 1927 Bristol Sessions like Ernest Stoneman and Jimmie Rodgers, live on with those of subsequent generations at the Birthplace of Country Music. From the Carters to Cash, Marty Stuart to the Avett Brothers, original tunes and their ancestral derivatives endure.

STORY BY LEXIE LITTLE PHOTOGRPAHY COURTESY OF THE BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC

The Birthplace of Country Music – which includes the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival, and WBCM Radio Bristol – tells the Twin City’s story as the original home of country music.

And with momentum on its side, the nonprofit organization seeks to continue highlighting the region’s musical heritage, educating and engaging a global audience through exhibits, live music, and educational initiatives.

Telling the story from the beginning The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, a Smithsonian Institution affiliate, opened its doors in 2014 to tell the story of country music from the 1920s to today. The 24,000-square foot facility features an extensive permanent exhibit with interactive displays, film and soundscape experiences, and text, artifacts, and photographs, a 100-seat Performance Theater, a live working radio studio, education space, and a Special Exhibits Gallery for in-house temporary exhibits and traveling exhibits from the Smithsonian and other institutions.

To celebrate its fifth anniversary, the museum prepares to welcome American Ballads: The Photographs of Marty Stuart, which was organized by the Frist Art Museum in Nashville, Tennessee. Marty Stuart, a Grand Ole Opry member and five-time Grammy Award winner, is currently working on opening a museum in his home town of Philadelphia, Mississippi. He owns an extensive collection of country music memorabilia collected from close friends like his former fatherin-law Johnny Cash.

But in addition to his collection of artifacts like Patsy Cline-worn boots and Hank Williams’ handwritten lyrics, Stuart keeps many photos he took over the course of his career, many of which will be in Bristol in August.

Birthplace of Country Music Executive Director Leah Ross says “American Ballads: The Photographs of Marty Stuart provides an introspective look at country’s biggest legends, fans and others Stuart has met on his travels, and the Lakota people in South Dakota. From Aug. 1 to Jan. 30, 2020, patrons can see the last portrait of Johnny Cash, photos of Willie Nelson and Loretta Lynn on tour, vipseenmag.com

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and snapshots of Dolly Parton, George Jones, and Emmylou Harris in recording studios – out of the public eye for those moments in time.”

“He had an up close and personal opportunity to take these pictures,” said Ross. “You’ll see pictures that probably no one else could have gotten. It’s a look through his eyes of how he captured the artists, maybe in a sad moment, a happy moment – the personalities of these artists.”

Marty Stuart frequents the region and remains an avid supporter of the heritage in Bristol. The Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival welcomes Stuart and his band again this year in conjunction with his photo collection, strengthening the bond between country music’s origins and the current scene.

In an interview with freelance writer Tom Netherland earlier this year, Stuart detailed his respect for A.P. Carter, one of the pioneers in the 1927 Bristol Sessions.

“Alvin Pleasant Carter is one of my all-time personal heroes,” Stuart said in the story special to for the Bristol Herald Courier. “...Hanging out with A.P. Carter would be like hanging out with Moses.”

In order to continue telling the origin story, the Birthplace of Country Music must find engaging exhibits, events, and opportunities to attract not only visitors, but investors.

“A lot of folks don’t know in order to keep the museum sustainable and keep the operations going, it takes much more than visitors coming through the doors,” Kris Truelsen of WBCM Radio Bristol said in a recent press conference at the Museum. “There’s a bunch of different ways to support and make this a sustainable organization with the wonderful thing that we’re doing here.”

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Museums like the Birthplace of Country Music museum only receive around 27 percent of their funding from operating revenue including admissions, shop sales, events, and facility rentals. That means 73 percent of all funding must come from fundraising initiatives, government and private donations, and other sources.

On Sept. 22 from noon until 4 p.m., BCM will host a $250,000 Super Raffle with prize giveaways every five minutes to help with fundraising efforts. Five thousand allotted tickets give community members opportunities to win vehicles, jewelry, cash, and more, with two chances to win on each ticket purchased.

After 10 months of planning, reaching out to local businesses, and securing permits from both Tennessee and Virginia, BCM gears up for large giveaways.

“We’ve been very fortunate that our local and regional businesses came forward to help build a really spectacular selection of prizes for the Bristol Sessions Super Raffle,” said Ross. “They believe in our mission and how important the museum is to our community.”

The Bristol Sessions Super Raffle will take place during the final day of the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival, which runs Friday, Sept.

20 to Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019.

Keeping the circle unbroken The Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion musical festival has kept country music traditions alive and celebrated related genres since 2001. Each year, more than 130 bands perform on 20 stages in Downtown Bristol to honor the 1927 Bristol Sessions’ influence on multiple music styles.

cover story VIPSEEN

Music, a 5K run, Yoga in the Park, a bluegrass jam camp, and food vendors attract more than 40,000 attendees annually. This year, country music legend Wynonna Judd headlines the three-day festival.

Other artists bring sounds from across the spectrum of roots music including old-time, bluegrass, rock, blues, folk-rock, and alternative country. This year’s festival will also include a visit from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts “artmobile,” a traveling art gallery that will be open to school groups on Sep. 18 and 19 and to festivalgoers throughout Bristol Rhythm & Roots.

As for the impending 20th anniversary of the festival next year, those behind the scenes at the Birthplace of Country Music are already focusing on ways to commemorate the significant milestone.

“We’re in the very early stages of deciding what we’re going to do to make it special,” said Ross. “I don’t necessarily mean make it bigger and better, but special, as it should be.”

Though in early stages, Ross says local citizens can expect to hear news about a partnership with Bristol Motor Speedway for 2020, as Bristol braces for music and races in back-to-back weekends next year.

Bristol Motor Speedway’s night race, the Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race slated for Sept. 19, 2020, will take place the weekend following the Festival.

With significant anniversaries and attractions for both the museum and the festival, the BCM team hopes to keep momentum going, reaching audiences far beyond the region.

region during his sneak preview in March. For example, student documentary filmmakers from the University of Tennessee’s Land Grant Films program traveled from Knoxville to hear Burns speak at the Paramount on an invitation from East Tennessee PBS. But the film’s reach will extend far beyond East Tennessee.

Plans remain in the works for the documentary to air in the United Kingdom. With national and international reach, the film gives Bristol a platform to reach broad audiences who might otherwise never know about the city or its musical history. The documentary will reach a large number of viewers without exhausting the museum’s limited resources, and the staff at the Birthplace of Country Music meets the opportunity with gratitude.

“I just feel like there’s so much momentum behind our organization at this time,” said Kim Davis, BCM’s Director of Marketing. “From launching the Super Raffle to celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Museum, to hosting a new special exhibit, hosting the 19th annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, and seeing visitors from all 50 states and across the U.S. visit the Museum, BCM has so many things happening right now and it’s really exciting. We love sharing the story of Bristol and region’s rich musical heritage, and we plan to keep sharing that story with more and more people each and every year.

It’s truly an unbroken circle, and its takes our team, board, partners, and community working together to tell our incredible story.”

Inviting others from beyond the fold Momentum for reaching more people commenced earlier this year when American filmmaker Ken Burns decided to launch publicity for his new documentary, “Country Music,” at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and Paramount Theater in Bristol. Burns, an Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award winner, earned national attention for his documentary series about the Civil War (1990), Baseball (1994), Prohibition (2011), and the Vietnam War (2017), among others.

“We were very lucky and honored that he kicked off his road tour promoting the Country Music documentary here at the museum,” said Ross. “We started working with Burns and his team before we even opened the museum, and over the past five years our team has worked with his team on a variety of elements for the documentary. To host the promotional kickoff for the film was a dream, and Ken said it best, ‘Bristol-this is where is started.”’, According to Burns’ website, the film will “chronicle the history of a uniquely American art form” through a “sweeping, multi-episode series” to discover definitions and origins of country music – notably, the Bristol Sessions. PBS set the film’s debut for Sept. 15 at 8 p.m.

Based on Burns’ prior reach and accolades, Ross hopes the film will encourage viewers to visit Bristol.

“All of his documentaries have really created a boom in tourism for those areas, hoping that has the same impact on Bristol,” said Ross.

The documentary already brought an outside audience to the vipseenmag.com

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Martin Dentistry – Kingsport

Welcomes Dr. Chris Hillman MARTIN DENTISTRY – KINGSPORT IS EXCITED TO WELCOME DR. CHRISTOPHER HILLMAN TO ITS GROWING DENTAL PRACTICE. Dr. Christopher Hillman attended the College of Charleston where he received a Bachelors of Science in Biology, then he attended the Medical University of South Carolina to earn his DMD. During his time at MUSC, Dr. Hillman served as the President of the American Dental Education Association, MUSC Chapter and also completed medical mission trips to Morocco and Thailand.

Prior to joining Martin Dentistry, he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at The Foundry Dental Center in Bessemer, Alabama where he completed the Alabama Implant Education Course, the Comprehensive Implant Residency Program Course, and an IV Sedation Course.

DR. CHRIS HILLMAN

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Hillman enjoys spending time with his wife and son, watching college football, hiking, traveling, and podcasting. He and his family are excited to explore their new home in Kingsport, TN. Martin Dentistry has three convenient locations to serve you, and is welcoming new patients at their Kingsport, Colonial Heights, and Johnson City locations. Dr. James Cheng joins Dr. Kevin Martin, Dr. Katie Allen, Dr. Perry Joiner, Dr. Andrew Ambrister, Dr. Sara O’Daniel, Dr. David Guy, and Dr. James Cheng.

KINGSPORT

Dr. Hillman will see patients in our Kingsport office beginning July 15th. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Hillman, call (423) 247-8172 or visit martindentistry.net.

GENERAL DENTISTRY • COSMETIC DENTISTRY • ENDODONTIC SERVICES PERIODONTAL SERVICES • ORAL SURGERY

Martin Dentistry – Johnson City

Welcomes Dr. James Cheng MARTIN DENTISTRY – JOHNSON CITY IS EXCITED TO WELCOME DR. JAMES CHENG TO ITS GROWING DENTAL PRACTICE. Dr. James Cheng received a Bachelor’s in Microbiology from the University of Georgia and then attended the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University to earn his DMD. During his time at DCG, Dr. Cheng served as the chapter president of the Student Professionalism and Ethics Association, Co-director of the Mentorship Program, and lobbied in Washington D.C on behalf of the American Student Dental Association.

Prior to joining Martin Dentistry, he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the VA hospital in Birmingham, Alabama and is a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honors Society, Georgia Dental Association, and American Dental Association.

DR. JAMES CHENG

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Cheng enjoys many outdoor hobbies with his fiancé, Nidhi, and Goldendoodle, Danni, and is excited to explore their new home in Johnson City, TN. Martin Dentistry has three convenient locations to serve you, and is welcoming new patients at their Kingsport, Colonial Heights, and Johnson City locations. Dr. James Cheng joins Dr. Kevin Martin, Dr. Katie Allen, Dr. Perry Joiner, Dr. Andrew Ambrister, Dr. Sara O’Daniel, Dr. David Guy, and Dr. Christopher Hillman.

JOHNSON CIT Y

KINGSPORT 1599 Fort Henry Drive (423) 247-8172

Dr. Cheng will see patients in our Johnson City office beginning July 15th. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Cheng, call (423) 247-8172 or visit martindentistry.net.

COLONIAL HEIGHTS 4260 Fort Henry Drive, Suite #13 (423) 239-6594

JOHNSON CITY 135 Marketplace Blvd., Suite #101 (423) 434-2421

www.martindentistry.net

Bristol RHONDA HELMS AND TRACY KING

JOSH POPE AND MAKAYLEIGH SMITH

ROBIN PARKER

Over the Edge Tri-Cities TN/VA EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

The opportunity to rappel ten stories, down the side of the Bristol sign was available on Saturday, June 8th at the Bristol Motor Speedway. The one-ofa-kind event was held to raise funds for Speedway Children’s Charities and YWCA NETN and SWVA to support local families.

Each person who went “over the edge” raised funds of at least $1,500 through individual fundraising pages that were shared with family and friends. On the site training was provided by personnel employed by “Over the Edge”, a company that supports non-profits organizations in running rappelling fundraising events.

This was the second year for the event, and there were several repeat participants. Plans are already underway for 2020, so if you want to see the view from the top, have an adrenalin rush, and most importantly, raise funding for Speedway Charities and YWCA, check out the following websites!

YWCA: ywca.org Speedway Children’s Charities: speedwaycharities.org

CLAUDIA BYRD SHANA JONES (WELLS FARGO)

KATHY WAUGH AND JULIE POWERS

Once the “edgers” knew the ropes, they took the elevator and then stairs to the top of the tower. After more instructions, while dangling from the side of the tower, they began their trip to the bottom. Superheroes from Wells Fargo were at the bottom to help with the ropes and assist in a safe landing.

KATHY WAUGH (CEO YWCA) MELANIE YOUNG AND TARA TOLBERT

JENNIFER GOZEVICH (EVENT COORDINATOR)

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COBY ADDISON AND PAMELA GORDON

COBY IS READY TO GO!

Bristol FIRST PLACE TRADITIONALBRISTOL GARDEN AND GRILL

FIRST PLACE SPECIALTY – STATELINE BAR + GRILL

ERIC AND TRACY CHILDRESS

Bristol Wing War EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

The Inaugural Bristol Wing War took place on Saturday, May 25th in Downtown Bristol. The event was emceed by Ricky Matthews and Christy Calcagno with WCYB. Attendees came out to Piedmont Avenue for wings, beer, live music, and other vendors. Five restaurants with 14 different flavors of wings were onsite competing to be the best in two categories – traditional and specialty. Bristol Garden and Grill took home the first place traditional wing and Stateline Bar + Grill won first place specialty wing. The People’s Choice Awards in both categories went to Moe’s Original BBQ, voted on by the attendees. Live music from Tomcats and Wyldeheart added to the festive atmosphere. Produced by All American Food Fights, proceeds benefited Believe in Bristol.

CHRISTY CALCAGNO AND RICKY MATTHEWS WITH WCYB EMCEED THE DAY’S ACTIVITIES

JON AND HOLLY PHILLIPS

LIVE MUSIC FROM WYLDEHEART

Believe in Bristol’s mission is to foster the collaborative vibrant nature of both Bristols by building a community of culture, lifestyle, heritage, music, and economy. Believe in Bristol strives to strengthen the heart and soul of our Historic Downtown and facilitate its future growth by implementing the Main Street Four Point Approach focusing on Organization, Design, Promotion and Economic Restructuring. For more information, visit believeinbristol.org.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE TRADITIONAL MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

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Bristol TRACI COMBS AND BRANDI AUTIN

HOLLIE AND TYLER MOODY

RAY AND ELKE WATSON

Red Slipper Gala EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

There’s no place like Theatre Bristol on opening night! The theatre’s Red Slipper Gala was held at the Paramount Center for the Arts on June 21. Guests enjoyed an evening in the Emerald City, complete with food, themed cocktails, ruby slippers, and followed by a performance of The Wizard of Oz, directed by Kenn Naegele. This year marked the 80th anniversary of the classic musical by L. Frank Baum, with music and lyrics

by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg. The proceeds of this event benefit Theatre Bristol.

Theatre Bristol presents The Wizard of Oz as part of its family-friendly 54th season of ARTspace and Paramount shows, including Cinder Red Riding Hood and the Seven Dwarfs, Sherlock Holmes, The Trial of the Big Bad Wolf, Into the Woods, and Miracle on 34th Street.

CAMILLE AND SAMANTHA GRAY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THEATRE BRISTOL

DON AND LAURA O’BRYAN WITH LAUREN AND PATTY TURNER

Founded in 1965, Theatre Bristol is the oldest continually running children’s theatre in northeast Tennessee. Its Main Stage season consists of up to six productions. Some of its performances take place in the ARTspace, a multipurpose, black box theatre which seats up to 120, and other performances are on stage at the Paramount Center for the Arts. Theatre Bristol is volunteer run and we invite you to get involved.

SAMANTHA GRAY AND JANE BELAMY

For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-212-3625, or email info@theatrebristol.org.

Bristol WOOFSTOCK WAS AN EVENT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

JACQUI, COURTNEY, AND BO

RENEE WITH SUGAR

Woofstock 2019 EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Adorable pups and their wonderful owners came together at Sugar Hollow Park in Bristol, Virginia on Saturday June 1, 2019. They were there to have some fun with their pets while helping a great cause.

JOANNE DAVENPORT AND FRANKIE

Woofstock 2019 began the morning with a 4K-4Paws run and the new “Flower Power” walk. Racers could run individually or alongside their pet pals. After the race, the four-legged friends continued with competition at the Fido Festival events for a chance to win prizes.

Now in their 11th year, Woofstock has seen a lot of growth, with about 800 dogs and their owners coming out last year.

Music, food, and a lot of crafters were also on hand.

An online contest was held before to choose Mr. and Miss Woofstock. These two ambassadors were voted on and crowned with the titles. This year Ms. Woofstock is Kimber and Mr. Woofstock is Tucker Gibson “Gibbs” Walters, a local celebrity in his own right, Gibbs is known as the Friendship dealerships mascot.

Kimber Lowe is the mascot for a local trucking company.

The proceeds from Woofstock are used for the Margaret Mitchell Spay/Neuter Clinic and provide services that assist in eliminating the unwanted overpopulation of pets.

RALEIGH, ALY, LILLY, TIFFANY

The Margaret Mitchell Spay/Neuter Clinic provides reduced cost spay and neuter services to reduce the dog and cat over-population problems in nine counties in Southwest Virginia, the cities of Norton and Bristol, and in Bristol and Sullivan County, Tennessee.

KOREY WHEATLEY, STACY CUMMINGS AMD KIM WOMACK

LANCE BLAYLOCK, VICKY HOLBROOK AND ASHLEY LEONARD

The vision of the clinic is to end the need to euthanize healthy animals by reducing the need for dogs and cats to enter a shelter.

The non-profit is a part of the Bristol Humane Society that was co-founded by Margaret B. Mitchell in 1964. At her death in 2003, Mitchell left a portion of her estate to the society of animal well-being, which allowed them to start the spay and neuter clinic.

For more information, please visit their website at mbmspayneuterclinic.org.

NATALIE WHITLOCK WITH MIMOSA

MADDUX, CHRISTIN, LUCY, AND BRADY

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WHERE MEMORIES

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LOCAL APPRECIATION

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Bristol EUCLID AVENUE WINNER - LUCINDA BROWN

VIRGINIA HILL WINNER – ELEANOR HAMILTON – REYNOLDS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

HISTORIC DISTRICT PRESERVATION AWARDS COMMITTEE

Historic District Preservation Awards

EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY | BUILDING PHOTOGRAPHS BY STUDIO BRISTOL PHOTOGRAPHY AND FINE ARTS

BRISTOL DOWNTOWN COMMERCIAL MARCUS MCCALL - THE BRISTOL HOTEL

May is National Preservation Month, and to celebrate, the 6th annual Historic District Preservation Award Ceremony for the City of Bristol, Virginia was held on Thursday, May 16, 2019. The award program recognizes and honors property owners and developers who engage in preservation projects within the city’s five historic districts. The five historic districts are the Euclid Avenue Historic District, Solar Hill Historic District, Virginia Hill Historic District, Bristol Downtown Commercial Historic District, and the Bristol Warehouse Historic District.

“Restoration projects and long-term maintenance of properties in our historic districts encourage community revitalization, preserving the rich history and charming landscape of our city” according to Catherine Brillhart, Committee Chair.

The Historic District Preservation Award Committee selects award winners from public nominations. Winners are selected based on the exterior of the commercial or residential property. The 2019 award recipients were Reynolds Memorial United Methodist Church (327 W. Mary Street), The Bristol Hotel (510 Birthplace of Country Music Way), 1022 Euclid Avenue, 225 Solar Street, and 501 Lawrence Avenue. One of the recipients received the prestigious Stewardship Award, which has only been awarded one other time in the history of the program.

Nominations are being accepted for the 2020 Historic District Preservation Awards through March 31, 2020. For more information and to submit nominations, visit www.bristolva.org

STEWARDSHIP AWARD - DR. FRED AND ANN GREEAR

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STORY AND PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Mobile Dental and Eye Clinics Serve East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia Residents A ppalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Unit has only been operational since June 2016, but has already made a significant impact in reducing the number of local adult residents suffering from dental pain who have no other affordable alternative.

According to Bruce Sites, executive director of Friends In Need who maintains operational control of the Appalachian Miles for Smiles Program, “Friends In Need is delighted to be in position to serve uninsured dental patients at no cost to the patient in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. We are very appreciative of the extraordinary, collaborative effort of major donors like the Cigna Foundation, LandAir Corporation and Remote Area Medical USA, as well as community organizations like United Way of Greater Kingsport, civic clubs, churches, local businesses, and a host of volunteers who constructed the unit under the direct supervision of Frank Waldo, Co-Owner of TeleOptics Inc. Without this unique effort and support, Appalachian Miles for Smiles would not be in operation today”.

Mr. Waldo emphasized, “having volunteers do the construction of this unit enabled the project to be completed at a fraction of the commercial cost, and led to a design that is far more flexible and adaptable than one purchased from a custom design manufacturer.

It is estimated that a like-unit purchased commercially would cost more than $1 million.” This unit will remain in Kingsport permanently to serve those in our region who have no affordable alternative for dental care.

Mrs. Claus reading to children our Angel Tree party

The Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Unit is a fivetreatment bay, state of the art dental clinic equipped with self-

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contained electric power, heating and cooling, compressed air, dental suction system, fresh water and waste disposal systems, and a digital dental x-ray system. It is designed to be operational at any remote location one hour after arrival, and generally operates with four volunteer dentists and one hygienist, along with additional support personnel to do patient registration, blood pressure, and blood sugar checks.

The mobile dental unit will appear at all major Remote Area Medical events in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, and at roughly 25 mini, two-day events in the region. It is planned that this AMS mobile unit will provide dental care to approximately 1,500 uninsured adult patients on an annual basis. The motto of the mobile dental clinic is “Every Mile Improves a Smile.”

Reverend Will Shewey, pastor of Shades of Grace United Methodist Church, underscores that the greatest health need of his congregation is dental care and relief of dental pain. He relates a story that the pain experienced by one member was so intense that this individual extracted his own tooth with regular mechanic pliers. Dr. Joe Smiddy, a well-known retired physician and world-wide volunteer, works closely with Appalachian Miles for Smiles and Shades of Grace and views the introduction of the service of this mobile unit as an essential step toward solving the enormous need for dental care in our region.

During 2017, Appalachian Miles for Smiles delivered care to 1,354 adults at the scheduled two-day events conducted in coordination with local churches and other organizations in the region. Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Unit was also used at major Remote

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nonprofit

Area Medical Events to deliver dental care to an additional 2,132 patients, for a total of 3,486 patient encounters with a dentist or dental hygienist. At these events, 3,945 unsavable teeth were extracted, 833 fillings completed, and 758 hygiene treatments administered. A conservative estimate of the commercial value of the care delivered by Appalachian Miles for Smiles in 2017 was in excess of $850,000. Friends In Need Clinic in Kingsport and Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Unit combined to deliver dental care to 6,286 total patients in the region either at no cost or on a sliding fee scale. The total commercial value of these services approached an estimated $2 million.

Currently under construction is the Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Vision Unit. This unit will be housed on a 45foot, FeatherLite unit donated by the Cigna Foundation. This unit is already equipped with a diesel-powered generator and three air conditioning/heating units. Like Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Unit, the Vision Unit will be under the operational control of Friends in Need and will remain in Kingsport as a permanent asset for the region. This unit will represent a collaborative effort of major donors like the Cigna Foundation, Rotary International, RAM-USA, RAM-Virginia, Health Wagon of Wise Virginia, local civic clubs, churches, and businesses. Like its predecessor, this unit will also be constructed by volunteer labor. The Vision Unit will have four treatment bays. The first will be for patient examinations by a volunteer ophthalmologist or optometrist. The

other three bays will be for patient prescription determinations made by volunteer certified technicians. Frames will be available with the support of Lions Clubs and frame manufacturers for the patient to select a proper fit and desired look. The lens will be ground to fit the frames by volunteers utilizing existing RAM-USA equipment in Knoxville. The lens will then be placed in the selected frames and the completed eyeglasses mailed to the patient free of charge.

This need has been well documented by the United States Public Health Services findings that visual impairment to the level of 20/50 or worse in one or both eyes exists in 14 million Americans, and that 50% of this number is due to the lack of eyeglasses.

The Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Vision Unit is planned to be operational by the fall of 2018. It will be used in coordination with Appalachian Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Unit or individually as events dictate.

According to Devin Cradic, Manager of The Mobile Dental and Vision Units, the greatest need is professional volunteers and financial resources.

Those interested and willing to serve or make contributions, please call 423-378-2AMS (378-2267) or email devincradic@finhc.org. For more information and a schedule of events, please visit our website at: www.amfsmiles.org vipseenmag.com

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Kingsport TIM AND JENNE BERRIGAN

DEBBIE WAGGONER AND CHRISTOPHER BRACKETT

10th Annual CASA

Red Shoe Gala

BUDDY MORRISON, AMY DORAN, STEVE MAYO, AND MIKE VARNER

EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Red shoes dominated the dance floor for the 10th Annual CASA Red Shoe Gala on Saturday, February 9th. The event, held at MeadowView Convention Center, is a significant fundraising event for CASA for Kids, Inc. Attendees enjoyed a social hour as they browsed through the silent auction items, and enjoyed music provided by Jingfang Huang and Joseph Falconer.

Guests were welcomed by Mary Kilpatrick, Director of CASA, and Amy Doran, Board President. After a prayer by Pastor Chris Alford, a delicious dinner of filet mignon and grilled swordfish was served. The desert, a mirror glazed chocolate ganache cake, got everyone energized for the dance floor!

Preston Ayers served as the event emcee.

JENNY AND RANDALL FALCONER

MARY KILPATRICK

Jeff Bowlin conducted a life auction that was very successful because everyone was eager to bid on the items that would benefit children in need.

The Extraordinaires (Hickory, NC) hit the stage with energy and songs that had the dance floor crowded all night. After about an hour of dancing, it was time for a break and for the main event of the evening….the contest!

Larry Crawford introduced the contestants, with the women showing off their shoes first. They danced, strutted, and displayed their unique, varied, red shoes for the panel of male judges. After deliberation, Gina Pinney was declared the winner for the women’s contest.

JO ZIMMERMAN, PEGGY ROBINSON, AND CONNIE RICHARDSON

The men took the stage with action and moves! The panel of women judges enjoyed the shoe and the close inspections of the shoes! The winner, Michael Maughon stunned the crowd with his acrobatic skills!

The Red Shoe Gala symbolizes the red shoes from “The Wizard of Oz.” Dorothy clicked her heels three times to return home.

That is not always an option for the children served by CASA. Volunteers work with area courts to give a voice to children who don’t have a voice. They provide information to the judges to help with decisions about the needs of the children.

CASA for Kids, Inc. depends on donations and fundraising events for the services they provide. To learn more, visit their website at www.casa4kidsinc.org.

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june 2019

1ST PLACE – GINA PINNEY

DAXX AND WHITNEY CARR

DEBBIE MYKYTKA WITH WAYNE AND KETA HAWLEY

ADAM TATE AND EMILY BARNES

PENNY GRAY, LYNDA FONTAINE, DEBI JOHNSON, AND RHONDA GRIMES

MIKE AND LINDA LAMB

MAX FONTAINE AND KASEY SILVERMAN

LORRIE COOPER

1ST PLACE – MICHAEL MAUGHON

ERIN AND KYLE LEONARD

TRACEY AND STEVE EDWARDS

PATTI AND STEPHEN STANLEY

CHRIS AND DANELLE GLASSCOCK

CARLA DUNN AND BILL HALL

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Saturday, August 24th Dinner 5-7pm

Live Music by P.F. Flyers 7-9pm

Amis Mill Eatery

Tickets Adult $50 Children 5-10 $10 Tickets call Suzanne 293-0328 Missy 247-1161 x3

Kingsport BECKY DUNCAN, AMBER LEWIS, AND LIZ CHICCO FROM THE THEATER GUILD

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport

London Gala

ARIELLE SPRINKLE AND JENNY WOMPLER

ROBIN AND AARON HARSHBARGER

EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

On May 11th the Meadowview Conference Center looked like a scene straight out of London, England as ladies and gentlemen arrived for the annual Grand Tour Gala to support Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport. Each year this gala celebrates a different city around the world. This year it included a London storefront full of small and large local businesses, a raffle for a cherry red Porsche, and a live-action, murder mystery “CLUE” game for guests to take part in! Guests also had the chance to indulge in traditional English cuisine such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, crumpets, and finger sandwiches. Everyone also had the opportunity to browse and bid on the extensive silent auction available. Guests arrived in the perfect “London” costumes and outfits, paying tribute to British icons like the Beatles, Mary Poppins, and James Bond!

All of the proceeds of the night’s festivities supported the efforts of Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport. Boys & Girls Clubs inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport is always looking for more volunteers, as well as donations.

To get more information on Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, become a volunteer or donate to BGCGK visit online at www.kbgc.org or like us on Facebook.

BEATLES FANS, ANNE BECKELMAN AND CHEYENNA CAMPBELL

DALLAS AND JENNIFER GIBSON

PRESIDENT AND CEO LISA BEILHARZ AND ROBERT FORRESTER

TONYA AND JASON JOHNSON

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Kingsport ALLISON GALLOWAY AND RICKY MATTHEWS

KRISTIE LEONARD AND KAREN REDMAN

Visit Kingsport’s

Spring Wing Fling

MILES BURDINE AND TAMARA ROLLER

EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Kingsport’s Spring Wing Fling kicked off Racks by the Tracks weekend at the Farmers Market on May 17. This event was presented by Eastman Credit Union and invited wing lovers to taste some of the hottest, sweetest, and most unique wings in the Tri-Cities! Vendors served up their best wings to the soldout event. Guests had a chance to vote on best booth décor and people’s choice award. The big decisions were left to the professionals: representatives from Kingsport Fire, Police and EMS judged participants on best overall wing, best hot wing, best sweet wing, and most original wing. The best overall wing winner received the Everyday Hero’s Award, presented in honor of Sgt. Steve Hinkle, who was killed in the line of duty this year.

BEST OVERALL-LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE

CAROLINE WRIGHT, BRADLEY HOOVER, AND LINDSAY POWERS

2019 Winners include: Everyday Hero’s Award/ Best Overall – Longhorn Steakhouse People’s Choice – East Coast Wings and Grill Best Hot Wing – Woodstone Deli Best Sweet Wing – Buffalo Wild Wings Most Original Flavor – Creative Cuisine Culinary School Best Booth Décor – The Meadows at MeadowView

KINGSPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT

CREATIVE CUISINE CULINARY SCHOOL

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june 2019

MIKE MCINTIRE AND MORGAN KING

DARRELL AND SHARON DUNCAN

CENTER STREET GRILL

AARON ROBINETTE FIRE, ROBERT HUGHES POLICE, AND ETHAN THOMPSON EMS MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

LOGAN AND BREVEN ADDINGTON

SALLY AND CHARLIE MORELOCK

Spelldown:

Adult Spelling Bee EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

MARILYN AND DOUG WARNER

DIANNE SCOTT

Do you remember your elementary spelling bee? Were you a winner? Well on June 10th the Literacy Council of Kingsport held the Spelldown: Adult Spelling Bee at Gypsy Circus Cider Company. Adults got a chance to reclaim their grade-school glory and compete in a Spelling Bee against each other till only one was left! Friends, family, and colleagues gathered to enjoy a night of spelling, hot dogs, popcorn, and a pint or two! The Gypsy Circus Cider Company even donated $1 of every pint sold to the Literacy Council. This spelling bee did come with some “perks” by providing the contestants the opportunity to purchase extra advantages to help them out, such as a second chance on a missed word, a whiteboard to write the word on, or re-entry into the competition after being eliminated.

Kingsport

PEGGY AND EDDIE GALLOWAY

All the proceeds of this fundraiser went towards the Literacy Council of Kingsport and their mission to provide free one-on-one tutoring to adults and children to improve their literacy skills, as well as achieve their individual goals. The council also aims to be an advocate for literacy in the community. The Literacy Council achieves their goals by providing trained volunteers for free one-onone tutoring to address issues like adult basic literacy, English for speakers of other languages, and tutoring for children and youth.

PATRICK LEWIS AND FRANK JOHNSTON

ANNA DAVIS

WINNER: WILLIAM WERNER

For more information on the Kingsport Literacy Council, visit www.literacycouncilofkingsport.org vipseenmag.com

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Kingsport DR BILL BASS

An Evening with

Dr. Bill Bass

DALLAS MONDAY

JORGE AND TANYA REGO

EVENT COVERED BY ALICE SALYER

An Evening with famed forensic anthropologist Dr. Bill Bass was a sold out show at Ross N. Robinson Middle School on a rainy June 18 evening in Kingsport. The unique event was sponsored by Bays Mountain Park and Kingsport Idol.

Fans of all sorts turned out to hear Dr Bass share stories of his extensive experiences in osteology and forensics research, as well as have books signed and photos taken. Attendees included CSI type show fans, forensics students, medical professionals, academics and the general public, ages ranged from teens to senior citizens.

EMILY DAVIDSON AND JEANA ESTEP

Dr. Bass, an expert in the field of forensics, or human bones and decomposition, is the founder of the famous University of Tennessee Body Farm, where people can choose to donate their remains to benefit scientific research that can help train law enforcement officials to solve crimes and further research in the field. While he is retired, he still plays an active role in research at the University of Tennessee Anthropological Research Facility.

Dr. Bass shared stories of mysterious cases he has researched dating back to the 1960’s, many in East Tennessee. The bones of unidentified bodies can be used to tell the story of the person and what happened to them. The 90-year-old Dr. Bass shared his knowledge with a good dose of humor, since “if you’re gonna research this stuff, you gotta have a sense of humor.”

For more information, visit bonezones.com.

TELAK BRAHMBHATT, VIRGINIAHOLLEY, ETSU GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL

DR. BASS AND KRISTIE HILTON

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june 2019

LANA KISER

MARY AND DANIEL LADY

Kingsport

CHARLES AND ANN COFFIN

MARC AND JACQUELINE JOSEPH

WHITNEY CARR WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars SHERYL HANKS, JUDITH HAMMOND, AND SHIRLEY STONER

EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Five men and five women competed for the coveted mirror ball trophies at the 2019 Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars. It was evident that numerous hours were spent in rehearsals with champions, Mike and Kim Adler. Each contestant performed two dances. The crowd was also treated to dances from previous contestants and last year’s winners. One of the most popular dances of the evening was presented by students and staff of Jeremiah School.

The evening also included a silent auction, buffet dinner, and a live auction. Mistress of Ceremonies, Sarah Diamond and DJ, Michael Hawkins kept the energy high throughout the night.

JORDAN STOUT AND JURNEE CARR

HANNAH AND ERIC HITE

A panel of judges kept the crowd entertained with comments, and also scored each dance. This year’s winners were: Female Champion - Donna Lampkins, Male Champion - Justin Smith, People’s Choice Winners Whitney Carr and KD Bowen, Shining Star Winner – Kim Hall.

The event was a fundraiser for Jeremiah School, a therapeutic day school for children in this area with neurological delays in relating and communicating, including autism. A locally produced video was presented that stressed the importance of having a school in our area that focuses on the needs of participating students. For more information about Jeremiah School, visit their website at www.jeremiahschool.com.

Dancing with the Tri-Cities Stars is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the education, development, and growth of at-risk children and youth. For updates, follow the page on Facebook or check out their website at www. dancingwiththetricitiesstars.com.

TROPHIES!

JACOB AND HOLSTON

LEE AND ANNA GRAGG

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Kingsport DANA AND SHERRIE BACON

ETTA AND KIM NISWONDER

JENNY ROGERS AND KELLI TRENT

ANNETTE AND FRED GIBSON

CARRIE MAGGARD

JASON VANOVER

LAUREN AND DUSTIN CLARK

KIM AND MIKE ADLER

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june 2019

PAIGE PETERS, 2018 FEMALE CHAMPION

WHITNEY CARR, PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

Kingsport JEREMIAH SCHOOL STUDENT’S DANCE

ROBIN JUSTICE AND JEFF WILSON

DONNA LAMPKINS, FEMALE CHAMPION

MEGAN SCOTT AND CHRISTY STEADMAN

MATTHEW AND CARRIE MAGGARD

KD BOWEN, PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

TYLER AND SAMANTHA HENDERSON

MARC JOSEPH

KIM HALL, SHINING STAR WINNER

BECKY HASSELL, ANGELA BAKER, ANGELICA ARES, AND FELICIA GIBSON-CONNERS

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Kingsport

THE STARS!

DONNA LAMPKINS, FEMALE CHAMPION

MARY IMES AND MECHA ROWAN

CHRISTY STEADMAN

WHITNEY CARR, PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

KD BOWEN, PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

BRIGGER CHATMAN, 2018 PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

KIM HALL, SHINING STAR WINNER

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june 2019

JUSTIN SMITH, MALE CHAMPION

MICKEY BAKER PRESENTS TROPHY TO KIM HALL

JO CULLEN, PRINCIPAL OF JEREMIAH SCHOOL

Kingsport

CHAD RUTHERFORD AND PHILIP DISHNER

JUSTIN RODDA AND DAVID TEDDER

ERIC DEATON, MONTY MCLAURIN, AND TERRY BEGLEY

Kingsport Chamber 27th Annual

Golf Scramble EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY BOB FEAGINS, STU FISHER, RAY FEAGINS, AND BRETT SUMMAR

The Kingsport Chamber had a picture-perfect day for its 27th annual golf scramble at Ridgefields on Monday, May 20th. The course at Ridgefields is beautiful, and golfers enjoyed the temperatures and even the occasional visit from a resident deer.

The event was sponsored by Food City, Pepsi, and HunterSmithDavis.

Other sponsors included Texas Roadhouse, TimesNews, WXSM, and Spectrum Reach.

Awards were presented to the top three places in two flights in each round. In addition, hole competitions included prizes for longest drive, most accurate drive, and closest to the pin.

KEVIN COMPTON AND MICHAEL JETERS

JEFF THOMAS

The morning Championship Flight 1st place team was JTH Industrial. First place for the first flight team was The Philip Dishner Team. The afternoon Championship flight first place team was Golf Impact. The first flight team in first place was Jack of All Trades.

Golfers did not go hungry. The morning round began with a breakfast provided by Food City. Both groups enjoyed lunch by Texas Roadhouse and the afternoon group enjoyed a dinner provided by Texas Roadhouse.

All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Kingsport Chamber and its Keep Kingsport Beautiful and Leadership Kingsport programs. The Kingsport Chamber Foundation manages, promotes, supports, and assists a number of charitable, educational, environmental, leadership, quality of life and wellness programs that have a tremendous impact on the Kingsport community.

JG CAMPBELL, BILL PEEPLES, JUSTIN FLOYD, AND JAMES LYONS

JORDAN BISHOP AND KANDY LONGWORTH OF FOOD CITY

For more information on the Kingsport Chamber, go to KingsportChamber. org, or visit them on Facebook.

EDDIE GARRETT, DERRICK GIBSON, AND JAKE HARRIS

WES PETERS, KIM MEADE, SHARI KING, AND DON BUMGARDNER

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Kingsport Racks by the Tracks 2019 EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

Every year residents from Kingsport and surrounding areas gather for a weekend full of BBQ, beer and wine tasting, live music, and fun at Racks by the Tracks! This year the festival was held from Friday, May 17th to Saturday, May 18th at the Kingsport Farmers Market. Attendees had the opportunity to meet and greet and enjoy a free concert with country music singer Aaron Tippin, attend “Wing Fling”, and vote on their favorite barbecue, wine, and craft beer. Everyone also enjoyed live music from the Jake Quillen Band, Doctor Ocular, the Breakfast Club, and the Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute Band. The 7th Annual Racks by the Tracks 10K and 5K also took place this year presented by Powell Valley National Bank.

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june 2019

Not only is Racks by the Tracks full of food and fun for all ages, it is also committed to giving back to the community. This year the festival’s non-profit partners included: Sullivan County Humane Society; Relay for Life (American Cancer Society); Skin Cancer Foundation; Second Harvest of Northeast Tennessee (Feeding America); Kingsport Chamber of Commerce; Downtown Kingsport Association; Girls Incorporated of Kingsport; PEAK Young Professionals; Kingsport Ballet; Boys and Girls Club; and Sunrise Rotary Club.

For more about Racks by the Tracks or the non-profits they support visit www.racksbythetracks.com.

Book Now at TRIflight.com

Kingsport

Salvation Army Ribbon Cutting EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Thursday, May 16th, also National Salvation Army Week, the Salvation Army cut the ribbon on their newest addition in Downtown Kingsport. Located at 505 Dale Street, the new facility provides housing for homeless families in the area, which Major Joseph May says is a big need in the region. The facility has been renovated and includes two family apartments, complete with beds, living area, kitchen, and separate bathrooms.

Families are not expected to stay for more than 30 days. After 7 days, their situation is evaluated, and the organization tries to identify their needs and work with them to meet these needs. The Salvation Army is open 365 days a year, serving a noon meal each day.

GEORGE BRIDWELL, CHAIRMAN OF THE ADVISORY BOARD

JAYNE AND JOSEPH MAY, CORP OFFICERS

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information, visit www.salvationarmytennessee.org/kingsport.

Kingsport SAM MANIS, RANDALL SMITH, AND AL ATKINS

DAVID LAWSON

JOSH HALL

Relay for Life

7th Annual Car Show EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Participants gathered on Saturday, June 1st at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant, operated by BAE Systems, in Kingsport for the Relay of Life 7th Annual Car Show. They set up chairs and canopies and greeted friends; all while quickly starting the finishing touches on their cars and trucks.

ALLAN DIAS

John Kelley’s Red Cab has a sign on the car, promising a ride for $.50 for the first mile. On Friday, he stopped at Taco Bell, and a boy approached him with the money and asked for a ride to Subway. John gave him a ride, and the boy gave him a good tip. John told him that he would donate the money to the event on Saturday. Every penny counts in the fight against cancer. Last year the event raised over $7,500.

HOLLY BOOKER

JIM KELLY

Event organizer, Bill Bartlett and his brother Walter were honoring the life of a brother who lost the fight with cancer this year. Many in the crowd were fighting cancer, survivors, or caretakers. The turnout for the event gave everyone hope for raising funds.

One trophy had special meaning: it was designed in memory of Matthew Millsaps, an honorary spokesperson in the past. The trophy was made from his grandfather’s tools. Hadley Gray, a survivor of childhood leukemia, handed out the award as this year’s honorary spokesperson.

The popularity of this event is growing each year. Many businesses donated door prizes, D.J. Robbie Britton kept the music flowing, and vendors were available for t-shirt sales and food. It is estimated that over four hundred cars and trucks participated.

CANCER SURVIVORS, CARE TAKERS, AND PEOPLE IN THE FIGHT

LISA KINCER AND RANDAL LANE

For more information on the American Cancer Society, visit their website at www.cancer.org. For information on the Relay of Life Car Show in 2020, visit their Facebook page or contact Bill Bartlett.

BILL BARTLETT AND WALTER BARTLETT

BRANDT FUQUA AND FRIENDS (GRAPHIC DISORDER)

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Kingsport MATT BOWEN AND SAMANTHA HESS

KAMERAN AND HANNAH

Military and First Responders

Appreciation Day EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

Inside Track WOW held their 3rd annual Military and First Responders Appreciation Day in Church Hill on May 11th. Military and first responders and their families gathered for a day of fun and adventure to celebrate the everyday heroes in our area. This year’s activities included helicopter, jet boat, and ATV rides! Everybody enjoyed music, great food, and games for all ages. In addition to this, they held friendly competition between the military, police, fire department, and EMTs with flyby paintball target shooting! Then the fun-filled day came to an end with a bonfire for everyone! This event was an opportunity to thank all the individuals who put their life on the line daily to serve our community. Our military and first responders dedicate their lives to protecting our freedom and our safety. This event was a chance to thank them for their service and their dedication. It was made possible by generous sponsors.

DAVE DRAPER, GENA PINNEY, AND APRIL STREET

BILL AND LEESA POWERS WITH KAREN AND RENE MINOT

Kingsport

National Peace Officers

Memorial Day EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

On May 13th the Fraternal Order of Police (F.O.P) Burgess-Mills Lodge #11 started off National Police Week by conducting a Law Enforcement Memorial Service at the Kingsport Police Department Law Enforcement Memorial and Eternal Flame in Downtown Kingsport. Members of the community, as well as police officers from the area gathered to remember and honor both our local fallen officers and fallen officers throughout the nation. Bobby L. Russell, former officer with the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office and current Sullivan County Circuit Court Clerk, served as the keynote speaker.

CIRCUIT COURT CLERK, BOBBY RUSSELL WAS THE GUEST SPEAKER

National Police Week was established by President Kennedy in 1962 to recognize those in law enforcement who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. The Kingsport Police Department Law Enforcement Memorial and Eternal Flame acknowledges the officers who have laid down their lives to protect the community.

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FAMILY MEMBERS OF FALLEN OFFICER DEPUTY STEVE HINKLE

june 2019

OFFICER’S FROM THE KINGSPORT DEPARTMENT

DAVID RUSSEL WITH ALLISON AND NATALIE

Kingsport KATE WOODWORTH AND DEVONA JESSEE

Kingsport Theatre Guild

Reveal Gala 2019

YOUTH FEMALE ACTOR OF THE YEAR WINNER LILAH MITCHELL

EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

Until Saturday, June 1, the 2019-20 Kingsport Theatre Guild (KTG) season remained a mystery to patrons. With hints like “Directional Fiction,” “Pure Village,” and “See Thru Treasure,” community members tried to guess the titles of upcoming shows leading up to the annual gala at the Kingsport Renaissance Theater. Local actors and volunteers staged snippets of each of the 14 upcoming productions, allowing attendees to preview work and definitively learn titles.

2019-20 KTG SEASON Aug. 9-18, 2019 WEST SIDE STORY Sept. 6-15, 2019 110 STORIES Sept. 13-22, 2019 MISS NELSON IS MISSING Oct. 4-13, 2019 MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR WINNER BRANDI AUTIN

Oct. 25-Nov. 3, 2019 THE CRUCIBLE Dec. 13-22, 2019 SCROOGE THE MUSICAL Jan. 3-12, 2020 I’LL NEVER BE HUNGRY AGAIN Jan. 17-26, 2020 THE GLASS MENAGERIE Feb. 7-16, 2020 SOUTHERN FRIEND FUNERAL

SPOTLIGHT AWARD WINNER JOHN KAYWOOD

March 6-15, 2020 RAINBOW FISH March 27-April 5, 2020 A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE

Shortly following “West Side Story,” KTG plans its production of “110 Stories,” a drama detailing the individual tragedies of those who witnessed and experienced the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks in New York City. With a poignant storyline based on interviews with victims, Executive Director Tina Radtke hopes the Kingsport community will take advantage of special performances outside the typical weekend schedule.

“This show will have a special performance on 9/11 at the Higher Education Center,” Radtke said. “It will be free to the public.”

April 18, 2020 GREATER TUNA May 22-31, 2020 RENT

“Directional Fiction” translated to “West Side Story,” the first show of the season and one of five musicals heading to the stage this year. John Kaywood will direct, and New York-based Mannes School of Music student Bryant Denmark will conduct. Denmark graduated from Dobyns-Bennett High School in 2017.

KEN AND PATTY DENMARK

KTG expects 23,000 in attendance including 3,000 school age children who will attend school performances.

In addition to entertaining a local audience, KTG trains and supports many local actors, directors, and community volunteers. During the gala, KTG representatives awarded several such individuals for outstanding performances or work behind-the-scenes.

Founded in 1947, the Kingsport Theatre Guild endures as one of the oldest community theatre groups in the state.

KTG offers summer theatre camps for children and teens, mainstage productions, downtown productions, and school performances. Donations to KTG benefit study guides for school groups, scripts and royalties, sets, costumes, and payment for local artists advancing their crafts.

In addition to donations, KTG receives state grants from monies collected in license plate sales. Extra revenue from specialty and personalized license plate sales benefits funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission. According to the Tennesseans for the Arts website, more than 70 percent of the money used to fund around 800 grants came from plate sales last year.

Radtke encouraged the Kingsport community to invest in the arts and Kingsport Theatre Guild through the program.

“That ups our grant money that we can get,” she said. “This year, we got $1300 more than we did last year.”

Kingsport Theatre Guild is located at 1200 East Center Street in the Renaissance Center near John Sevier Middle School.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit kingsporttheatre.org. vipseenmag.com

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Kingsport CHEWBACA AND DARRELL DUNCAN

YODA AND FARMER GERALD SKELTON

Kingsport Farmers Market Opening Day

YODA AND ANGELA CUMBOW

EVENT SUBMITTED

The Kingsport Farmers Market officially welcomed its 2019 season on Saturday, May 4. To celebrate its grand opening, the market kicked things off with a day full of live music, kids’ activities and more.

Homegrown produce, handmade crafts and baked goods will be found at the Kingsport Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. through November.

The Kingsport Farmers Market’s KickOff schedule of events is as follows: NEW FOR 2019 SEASON IS: Evening at the Market – in partnership with Visit Kingsport, every second Thursday of the month June

through September will feature a live Bluegrass concert in conjunction with a full farmers market. The event will run 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Carousel Park is now open right next door!

Recycling Initiative – Keep Kingsport Beautiful and the Kingsport Farmers Market want to promote good stewardship of the land are teaming up to bring a recycling initiative to the farmers market! In an effort to reduce the amount of plastic bags used in Kingsport, Keep Kingsport Beautiful, through a grant award, will be providing vendors with a supply of small paper bags and larger paper shopping bags for market customers.

In addition, one of the dumpsters at the farmers market will be converted into cardboard recycling. The market also has reusable Kingsport Farmers Market shopping bags for purchase.

For more information on the Kingsport Farmers Market, or to sign up for our monthly newsletter, please visit kingsportfarmersmarket.org.

LYNN TULLY AND CHEWBACA

CHEWBACA AND DENNIS COURTNEY

BIG LIKE THE OCEAN

JEFF MORELOCK AND YODA

DAVID TULLY

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june 2019

Jonesborough 22nd Bogie & Bacall

Golf Tournament EVENT SUBMITTED

Blackthorn Club at The Ridges hosted its 22nd Bogie and Bacall Golf Tournament on the weekend of June 21-23. This annual couples golf tournament is a marquee event on Blackthorn’s calendar each year, and entries sold out in under eight hours this year! With 120 golfers, this is considered one of the largest couples’ golf events in the southeast!

This year’s theme was “At the Hop,” and featured props and memorabilia from the 1950’s. Participants provided their own high school photos so a special Blackthorn High School yearbook could be constructed, much to the delight of everyone. Attendees at the main party on Saturday, June 22, all dressed up in in period attire.

Costumes and outfits ranged from poodle skirts and bowling shirts, to groups who went as T-Birds and Pink Ladies from the hit movie, “Grease.” Partygoers enjoyed and took pictures with a fully restored larkspur blue 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air as a special treat. The car was provided by Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Willis.

Chef James Allen, CEC, and his culinary team provided phenomenal fare throughout the weekend, including a themed 1950’s drive-in diner for lunch on Saturday.

While players battled the rains on Saturday, Sunday’s round was hot and sunny. Overall Low Gross Champions were Pat Bolander, Wendy Bolander, Jeff Blake, and Linda Dobele. Overall Low Net Champions were Rick Storey, Diana Storey, David Shelton, and Stefanie Shelton.

Blackthorn Club is a 950-member private country club in Jonesborough.

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Reviving Aging Interiors STORY BY DAVID MALLORY AND TODD FIELDS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE HENSLEY, JOHNSON CITY AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Y

our home is your sanctuary. The place that you find the most comfort. The items you fill it with, should be visually pleasing and bring you joy.

If you are a senior, after years of raising family and busy careers, you have time to sit down and have a look around.

Many times what you see, does not make you happy.

Our home’s decor is a representation of our life experiences. A collection of things that reflect different points in time. But like most things, decor has an expiration date, particularly trendy decor. Interior design, much like the fashion industry, is constantly changing. Things that were once all the rage, are no longer fashionable.

To keep your home relevant and pleasing to the eye, you need to update things from time to time.

Most senior’s interiors, consist of a collection of family pieces, items bought on a whim, and gifts from loved ones.

Often the result is a mish mash of unrelated items that have been “worked in”, without a real design plan.

Many times our senior clients say “I can’t just start all over and get rid of everything.” We assure them that this is not necessary to breathe new life into their home.

The thought of this process can be overwhelming for a lot of people. Here are a few suggestions to assist with the updating of the interior of your home. vipseenmag.com

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Home

EDIT, EDIT, EDIT Remove items that do not truly contribute to good design. Family pieces and gifts are great, but if they do not TRULY bring you joy, remove them. Outdated/faded artwork, lamps, accessories, draperies and the “scourge of all interior designers” – ivy bushes on tops of cabinets – all must go. Once you remove these items, you will, no doubt, have empty spots. Don’t panic! Good design allows spaces for your eye to “rest”. Resist filling every space immediately. It is better to have nothing, than to fill it with something that doesn’t truly contribute to the beauty of the room.

PAINT – BEST MONEY YOU CAN SPEND Repainting with a brighter, fresh neutral color can breathe new life into a room. Two of our favorite colors are Maison Blanc and Casa Blanca by Sherwin-Williams.

UPDATE COLOR SCHEME If you have colors that are no longer in style, reduce the amount of that color you are using. For example, if you have a red sofa, you do not need a red rug, artwork, and draperies. Reducing the old color and introducing an updated coordinate can make a big difference.

Good design allows for a mix of several colors that will pull your eye around the room. Be adventurous! Try some unexpected colors. An accent chair, artwork, or throw pillows are easy ways to update a color scheme, without starting over.

A good rule of thumb is to try and place the accent color in at least three different spots in the room.

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BRING IN MODERN PIECES Most seniors, have some nice traditional furnishings. There is nothing wrong with traditional. They are classics. The trick is to NOT pile traditional on top of traditional. Adding a modern styled mirror or piece of art over a traditional chest can make a dynamic new look.

Modern graphic prints in fabric or wallpaper do miracles. Updated lamps are always a must. Bad lighting can kill the look of a room.

The home featured is one that we designed. It is an example of what we call the “New Traditional”. Classic furnishings are offset with modern fabrics, wall coverings, art and accessories. The use of unexpected pops of color and interesting collections of art and accessories, draw your eye around the room. It shows an updated look without abandoning its traditional roots.

We realize that updating can be stressful. If you lack confidence, experience, or time. We suggest that you hire a qualified designer to assist you. It will make the experience a positive and gratifying one.

We hope these suggestions can assist you in reinventing and reenergizing your home’s interior.

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Johnson City LISA PAWLEY AND STEVEN COX WITH DAWN OF HOPE

RALPH AND KRISTI

Dawn of Hope Golf Classic Fundraiser EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Dawn of Hope hosted their annual Golf Classic Fundraiser on May 13 at the Johnson City Country Club presented by EbenConcepts. Proceeds went to benefit people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through support services provided by Dawn of Hope. Prizes included closest to the pin, longest drive, closest to the line, and a putting contest. Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments were provided by Chick-Fil-A of Elizabethton, Carrabba’s, Honey Hot Dogs, Freddy’s Frozen Custard, and Cherokee Distributing Company. The event also included a silent auction.

JOSH MANCUSO AND BRAD BODE

KELSI ARNOLD AND CARA CAMPBELL

GARDENER PAINT

Dawn of Hope is a nonprofit agency designated to provide a wide array of services to people with intellectual and/ or developmentally disabilities. Developmental disabilities are defined as those that become evident in childhood, that are expected to continue indefinitely, that constitute a substantial handicap to the affected person, and that are attributable to a number of different neurological conditions.

The agency offers a range of support services through day, employment and residential service programs. Through individualized person centered planning, service recipients are provided opportunities to develop life skills, participate in their community and obtain integrated employment.

To learn more visit www.dawnofhope.com

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LILLI AND ANNA

Johnson City MEMBERS OF JOHNSON CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

MAYOR JENNY BROCK AND LOIS WETZEL

Johnson City War Memorial Plaque Dedication EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

His name is “Iron Mike” and he is the only one of his kind in the state of Tennessee and is only one of eleven across the United States. This is the de facto named used for these memorials that commemorate our servicemen and servicewomen across the country.

The American Legion Kings Mountain Post #24 along with co-sponsor, the Sesquicentennial Commission chose Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country, to unveil a new plaque for “Iron Mike”.

While the old plaque remains, the new plaque is dedicated to those lost in the wars and military

conflicts since the first plaque was made.

Members of various military organizations, government officials and dignitaries, and gold star families were among those in attendance to welcome the new plaque to the old familiar statue that stands guard.

The statue is also referred to as the Dough Boy statue and has resided in Johnson City in the green area near the old Science Hill football stadium for several years. He was made the focal point of the new greenspace when the stadium was converted to a park space.

BOB CALLIHAM AND DR. SHARON RUSH

REP. DR. PHIL ROE AND HARRY BROOKS JIM CULP AND CHARLIE STAHL

BILL DARDEN AND TERRY HARRIS

REPRESENTATIVES MICAH VAN HUSS AND MATTHEW HILL

MIKE FARMERS AND REPRESENTATIVE TIMOTHY HILL

FORMER MAYOR STEVE DARDEN, MAYOR JENNY BROCK, FORMER MAYOR AND REP. DR. PHIL ROE

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Johnson City FRANNY’S FOOD TRUCK-- JEN SHIPLEY PRICE, QUILLAN PRICE, AND DANIELLE HAMBY

EXPERIENCED ORGANICS – BRITTANY FERGUSON

BRITTANY ZIEGLER, CODY COFFMAN, WOODSON, ANDREA SEES, AND CODY PRECIADO

2nd Annual Reggae Wine & Shine EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

On June 15th Crown Cutz Barber Academy held their 2nd Annual Reggae, Wine, & Shine. This event is an opportunity to get the community to come out and enjoy the beautiful weather while exploring various vendors, eating delicious food, listening to live performances from regional reggae bands, and trying different drinks provided by the Tennessee Hills Distillery. The Caribbean Soul Food Truck and Frannie’s Vegan Food Truck both sponsored this event and shared their amazing food with everyone.

Guests had the opportunity to relax and get a massage from “Massages by Cleo”, browse Paparazzi jewelry at “Pattie’s Pretty Pieces” tent, explore “Colossal” Brand clothing, and even try CBD samples from Good Girl CBD and Experienced Organics CBD! The Crown Cutz Academy aims to bring the community together while showcasing these reggae musicians and educating the public on CBD and other local vendors in their area!

PAPARAZZI JEWELRY “PATTIE’S PRETTY PIECES” PATRICIA MCKESSON WITH DAUGHTER MILAGRA MCKESSON

OBI JUAN AND WOODSON

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COLOSSAL BRAND

TENNESSEE HILLS DISTILLERY (JONESBOROUGH), STEPHEN CALLAHAN AND LAUREN MADDUX

TERRY CARADDACK AND REBECCA PALMER

GOOD GIRL CBD COMPANY—CHERIE CARTER, JORDAN ELLISON, SEBASTIAN STUCK, AND CAITLIN JONES

CHAD SILLS

THE WIT BIT

Beth is a wife to Stephen, mother of 2 boys, and business owner who is passionate about Jesus. She likes the color orange, good grammar, and junk food; she detests misspelled words, laziness, and mouth noises of all kinds. She is also passionate about helping people create residual income by working part time from home. www.bethstreet.myrandf.com

This could change your life...

Yes, you read that title correctly. The information I am about to impart could actually change your life. Okay, maybe it won’t change your whole life, but it could have a positive impact on your current summer situation.

hours on the beach. Matter of fact, go ahead and buy some Solarcaine and Aloe and pack it in your beach bag.

That’s right. The key to having a great time on vacation is expecting the trip to be a total disaster.

Under no circumstance should you ever expect a smooth check-in process. Be prepared for the most hateful desk clerk at your hotel/condo and know that your room will not be ready until after 6 pm, even though check in time is 2 pm. Once you finally reach your room, you will not be shocked to find that you have been placed in a room that adjoins a group of teenage boys who are celebrating their high school graduation. They will be loud and obnoxious until at least 3 am every night. The best way to combat this is to make sure you knock on their door while saying the word, “Police”, several times before heading to the beach.

Terrible vacations. We’ve all heard about them. We’ve all had them. Vacations where everything that could go wrong, did. You plan it to the last detail for months. You pay a fortune to make it happen and then everything goes south the first day for reasons completely beyond your control.

So, I’m giving you the antidote to bad vacations. Before the vacation begins, fully expect everything to go wrong, so that when things go well, you’ll feel like you’re winning.

If you love to ride the waves, go ahead and bring a shark bite kit and have a family member pegged as the “designated urinator”, because you will definitely get stung by at least one jellyfish. (FYI: In case you weren’t aware, the best remedy for a jellyfish sting is fresh human urine. You will be mentally scarred for life after your family member pees on your leg, but at least you won’t be mentally scarred AND in pain).

I don’t think of it as having a negative attitude. I think of it as being a pragmatist who practices disaster preparedness.

Speaking of fish, be sure to bring the Pepto-Bismol, because there’s no doubt you’re going to get food poisoning from bad shrimp or scallops. Plan on it!

Are you ready for it?

Here goes: Lowered expectation is the key to a great vacation.

What ?!?!?

So, when you head to the beach this summer, don’t expect your swimsuit from last year to actually fit. Pack it, but expect that you are going to look like a beached manatee wearing a couple of swatches of flowered spandex. Be sure to bring along a very large swimsuit cover-up, so no one can see the multitude of sins protruding from your suit.

As you’re trying to relax on the beach, expect people whose children are spawns of Satan to pitch their tent directly beside your umbrella. Also, expect that the father of those demon kids will talk loudly and never shut up while he drinks beer after beer and smokes cheap cigars.

Prepare for this disaster ahead of time by bringing a book and headphones when you head out for the day. You’ll also want to pretend to be using sign language when you talk to your family. It’ll keep both the devil’s spawns and their loudmouth father wondering if you’re hard of hearing.

Don’t even think that you’re going to hang out on the beach without getting 2nd degree sunburn. Go ahead and expect that you are going to be on fire after your first 2

I’ve left out several other probable scenarios like flat tires, cancelled flights, stomach bugs, hurricanes, tsunamis, and other natural disasters, but you should have the idea by now.

In most every other aspect of life, I would recommend hoping for the best, but when it comes to vacations, expect the worst and you’ll never be disappointed.

Life-changing advice. You’re welcome.

Happy Summer!!

Beth xoxoxo vipseenmag.com

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food trucks, beer, & entertainment food at 6pm | entertainment at 7pm free to the public FREE DRAWING SPONSORED BY CATTAILS GOLF COURSE, RUSH STREET, BLAKELY-MITCHELL, ALLANDALE PACKAGE STORE, AND DIAMOND EXCHANGE

4444 West stone drive Kingsport, TN 37660

AUGUST 1 comedian RICH VOS (ADULT MATERIAL) BAYS MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY, A.M. Kingsport, Opie’s pizza wagon, sam’s Snoball paradise

AUGUST 15 Ruby velle & the soulphonics BAYS MOUNTAIN BREWING COMPANY, A.M. Kingsport, backdraft bbq, sam’s Snoball paradise

AUGUST 22 benny wilson band & ivy road bays mountain brewing company, A.M. Kingsport, Opie’s pizza wagon, k&d ice cream

AUGUST 29 big daddy love bays mountain brewing company, A.M. Kingsport, Opie’s pizza wagon, k&d Ice Cream ALLANDALE

PACKAGE STORE

Johnson City MAYOR BROCK’S “A” TEAM

JUD TEAGUE

ERIN BLEVINS, JONI HUGHES, ELIZABETH BEACH, LUKE PIGEON, AND LT. CL. ERIC STANTON

Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament to Support NESCC Foundation EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER AND ALICE SALYER

To help a worthy cause, and to have major bragging rights, several communities entered the Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament. The event was held June 21, 2019 at the Johnson City Country Club.

LUKE PIGEON, ELIZABETH BEACH, AND JONI HUGHES HOLDING THE MAYOR’S CUP

Money raised from the event goes to the Northeast State Community College Foundation and will be used to help with scholarships and other needs to assist students in getting their college degree.

The City of Kingsport team consisting of Frank Lett, Mike Hammontree, Jud Teague, and Craig Denison took home the first-place trophy. The Kingsport team was sponsored by Visit Kingsport.

The City of Johnson City, sponsored by Jeff Dykes, earned second place. Team members were Jeff Dykes, Phil Carriger, Chargles Steagall, and Dan Simerly.

NORTHEAST STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOUNDATION CREW

TEAM BELL

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PAUL GREENE

CHARLES STEAGALL, PHIL CARRIGER, JEFF DYKES, AND DAN SIMERLY

MAYOR RUSTY BARNETTE, CHRIS GUY, SHERIFF DEXTER LUNCEFORD, AND JERROD ELLIS

Johnson City HOPE SHEESLEY, BLAIR CAHOON, CINDY THURLOW, AND TRACI NASH

ROBIA TURNER AND ADAM BOCK

TERRY AND GREG DRONE

Walk to End Alzheimers Picnic EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Alzheimer’s Disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. At this point in time, 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and the projection by 2050 is 14 million. That is why the regional chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association works hard to fundraise for education and research.

In addition, they provide free educational programs in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. It is the only cause that cannot be prevented, slowed, or cured. One in three seniors die from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia and it kills more people than Breast Cancer or Prostate Cancer combined.

In 2018, there were over 439,000 caregivers that gave over 500 million hours of unpaid care to loved ones.

That is an estimated cost of over six billion dollars in unpaid care. Thurlow is a huge advocate for the disease after losing her mother, mother-in-law, and several clients over the past few years. We realize at Edward Jones that this dreadful disease will devastate retirement for millions and destroy untold numbers of families. The picnic is a way to fundraise, promote awareness, and build our team in support of The Walk to End Alzheimer’s. We encourage everyone to get educated and become involved.

As National Presenting Sponsors, Edward Jones has raised over 2 million dollars since 2016. Regionally that means local Edward Jones employees are spearheading teams and fundraising for the cause.

Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Cindy Thurlow and her Branch Office Administrator, Hope Sheesley kicked off their fundraising efforts with a picnic at Rotary Park in Johnson City on June 6, 2019.

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held on October 19, 2019 @ the Pinnacle in Bristol. To join a team or donate to the cause, visit www.alz.org.

JOHN AND BECKY BERENGUER

The picnic featured great BBQ, a silent auction with fabulous gift baskets and other goodies, and a few rounds of SINGO, a popular form of musical bingo.

Thurlow and Walk to End Alzheimer’s Event Chair, Blair Cahoon spoke with the audience about the surprising statistics of Alzheimer’s for the state of Tennessee. It’s the 4th leading cause of death in the state and the 6th leading cause of death in the nation.

JOHN TAYLOR AND SUSIE PHILLIPS

ELENA, STEPHEN, AND EMMA CROW

DAN TOTH AND BOB FEICK

LARRY AND TRACI NASH

PRESTON AND FRIEDA WRIGHT

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Johnson City RAY AND KATHY FEAGINS WITH RONNIE BURTON

JIM HARLAN AND JERRY STEWART

RICK, CHRIS, JEFF, AND BEN

Second Harvest Annual Golf Tournament EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

It was the perfect temperature for a golf tournament, and that is just how Second Harvest of Northeast Tennessee likes it, when the organization had its 26th annual golf tournament.

This year the event was held June 3, 2019 at the Ridges Golf Course in Jonesborough.

Before the golfers headed out on the links, Carrabba’s provided a wonderful lunch in the Blackthorn Club.

BOB FEATHERS AND MATT STOREY

MIKE AND HEATHER MEREDITH

The funds raised at this tournament will assist the food bank in helping to provide the 8.9 million meals they serve to the region. They serve 40,000 individuals in a given month.

One vital program that the food bank seeks funding for is their backpack program for area school children. During the school year, children in need are given food to take home to get them through weekends and holidays when they many not have access to food.

The food bank doesn’t stop there, in the summers they have several different summer feeding programs for children so that being out of school doesn’t mean they grow hungry.

While the golf tournament is one of its largest fundraisers, the food bank has options so that anyone can help. Those wishing to help can donate money, food, or hold a small food drive in their community for Second Harvest. Another way to give back is to give of your time; the food bank is always looking for volunteers to help their worthy cause.

TEAM CARRABBA’S

LUTTRELL STAFFING

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CHRIS MCINTOSH AND KENNY HAWKINS

AMERIPRISE (KLEIN HOUSTON AND ASSOC.)

RAY, KATHY, AND BOB FEAGINS

HOLSTON GASSES

Johnson City AALIYAH AND CLAUDE TOWNES

DEVASAREE AND DARYL REDD

DEJA AND JORDAN

Johnson City Debutante Ball EVENT COVERED BY ALICE SALYER

The Johnson City Debutante Ball was held at the Holiday Inn on Saturday, June 15. The Ball is held every three years. Johnson City’s Angelitti Bradley has worked to keep the Debutante Ball tradition flourishing, while updating its purpose to reflect current society. Rather than presenting young ladies as eligible for marriage, it serves to celebrate their accomplishments and prepare them for future endeavors. Angelitti Bradley recalls being a debutante as a very influential part of her life, and wanted to share that experience in her community.

The Ball and program is coordinated by a Committee including Angelitti, Lisa Black, Taleah Rogers, Anna Collie and Christa Reid.

and their escorts attend Science Hill High School. They were presented to the community by their fathers, and escorted by accomplished, community-oriented young men. Each girl participated in a program of monthly learning and events, which included etiquette and ballroom dance lessons, community service projects, history and much more.

Eleven girls participated in this years ball, Aliyanna Hill, Devasaree Redd, Nya Conley, Jadah Henderson, Sian Gardner, Aviyonna Stafford, Quiyana Whitney, Yabre Garcia, Aaliyah Townes, Imani Hagler and Gianna Grazionale. The girls

The Ball was very well attended by the girls families, friends and church members. In addition to the presentation of the girls, the event included a sit-down dinner and dance.

The girls wore formal white dresses and long white gloves, while their fathers and escorts wore black tie and tails. As each girl was presented, the emcee, Reverend Lester Lattany shared their many outstanding high school accomplishments, future plans, a favorite poem and Bible verse.

COMMITTEE

AVIYONNA AND EDWARD STAFFORD

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ESCORTS

JADAH AND QUADEN HENDERSON

Johnson City WEST MARKET STREET WALMART

LISA CARTER

Children’s Miracle Network Kickoff EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Employees of local Walmart and Sam’s Club stores filled the seats in the lobby of Niswonger Children’s Hospital June 11, 2019 for a press conference announcing how they are giving back to our local children in need.

For the 2nd year Walmart stores will be teaming up with the Niswonger Children’s Hospital for their Children’s Miracle Network fundraisers. While Walmart has been a sponsor for several years, the CMN just recently became affiliated with Niswonger Children’s Hospital.

The stores will raise money by asking for customer donations at the register as usual, but the stores really

do go that extra mile to help. Stores do bake sales, hot dog lunch wagons, car shows, and one store even does a talent show to raise money.

Last year in the region, Walmart raised 222,000 for CMN. This money is used to purchase vital medical equipment, research, and charitable care of children from newborns to teens.

Niswonger became a Children’s Miracle Network affiliate in 2018. Walmart and Sam’s Club have been partnering with CMN since 1987. They have donated 6 million locally since they began their partnership with CMN.

EMILY BOWMAN (MANAGER, WEST MARKET STREET WALMART)

JACK SIMPSON (BALLAD HEALTH) JACK SIMPSON, LISA CARTER, AND EMILY BOWMAN

WALMART ASSOCIATES FROM AROUND THE REGION

CMN CHILD OF THE YEAR ELLIOT

SHEILA AND JOE PHIPPS

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Johnson City JW MORENO HANDCYCLES TO THE FINISH AT 1ST PLACE

JACQUELYN CROW PLACES FIRST OVERALL

RUNNERS OF ALL AGES PARTICIPATED IN THE RUN FOR YOUR VETERANS 5K

Run for Your Veterans 5K EVENT COVERED BY RACHEL K. BURRUS

The 2nd annual Run For Your Veterans 5K took place on the evening of Friday, May 24, 2019 at Johnson City/Washington County Veterans’ Memorial located on West Main Street. Runners gathered together in patriotic fashion to kick off the Memorial Day holiday weekend. This race deeply benefits the Johnson City/ Washington County Veterans’ Memorial located on West Main Street, providing funds for the maintenance of the evergrowing memorial. Brenda Barnette, director of the executive committee, says that “the purpose of the foundation is to be stewards. The purpose of the race is to bring awareness to the public that ‘we’re here.’”

The executive committee began in 2007 at a time when there was not a memorial park for veterans in the city.

However, according to the vision of its founder, the late Bob Sobel, veterans, civic and government leaders, on November 11, 2011 at 11:00 am, the memorial was dedicated. Ann Wooden says the most rewarding aspect of

serving as a foundation executive committee member, is “seeing our veterans’ names go to infinity on this memorial.” Bill Hampton is “honored and proud to be a part of this beautiful memorial.” of beautiful granite panels, the memorial represents the sacrifice of veterans - the rose-red granite panels contain the names of those killed in action, missing in action, and prisoners of war while the black granite inscribes the names of those who were fortunate to return home from service.

Applications for placing a name on the memorial may be submitted and processed by its officers who happily volunteered during the 5K, offering American flags to runners crossing the finish line. The committee is dedicated to accepting these applications for inscriptions of veterans whose honorable military service needs to be recognized.

“The executive committee keeps everything together. The city has been gracious, the public wonderful. We are indebted to them,” concludes Barnette.

GARY MCALISTER AND ANN WOODEN, MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE FOUNDATION

PARKER COWDEN PLACES SECOND OVERALL

BRENDA BARNETTE, HARRY GIBSON, “MOE” BAINES, GARY MCALLISTER, ANN WOODEN, AL HAMLETT, SUSAN JACKSON, BILL HAMPTON, AND ALLEN JACKSON THE JOHNSON CITY/WASHINGTON COUNTY VETERANS’ MEMORIAL COMMITTEE

IN HONOR OF VETERANS, CANNON FIRE SIGNALED THE START OF THE RACE EMMA CROSSES THE FINISH LINE

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AMBER CHRISTIAN WITH CHILDREN GAVIN, EASTEN, AND TAYLOR, WHO RAN FOR STAFF SARGENT RUSTY E. CHRISTIAN

Johnson City

BETTY AND KEVIN

NARZY AND TATUM

Gear Headz Giving Back EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Sunday, May 19th, the 1st Annual Gear Headz Giving Back event was held at Moe’s Original BBQ in Johnson City. Moe’s Original BBQ offered food and drink specials for attendees. All makes and models were part of the car and bike show. Awards were given out to the ones that attendees voted on as their favorites. Several locally owned businesses that assist with customization were on site to give information.

All proceeds from the event benefited Kari’s Heart Foundation.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

JENNIFER AND VICTOR PATE

JUDY HENSLEY AND ELLEN HOWINGTON ERNST

PAT AND GLENN

Inspired by Kari Schoondyke who lost her battle with congenital heart disease on April 7, 2009, Kari’s Heart Foundation is a faith-based organization providing personal, financial and social resources to families who have a health crisis with a child. KHF helps families from NE TN, SW VA, Western NC and the Quad-Cities area of Illinois.

For more information, please visit www. karisheartfoundation.org or call 423-913-1171.

TYLER AND DANNY

beauty

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by Sherri Jessee

Sherri 's Recommendations • M-61 PowerGlow® Peel bluemercury.com • Ceramic + Ion Brush oliviagarden.com

Skin

Keep your skin bright with M-61 PowerGlow Peel – a 1-minute, 1-step exfoliating facial peel.

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Hair

MODEL: DONNA LAMPKINS WITH KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY OF TRI-CITIES HAIR & MAKEUP BY SHERRI JESSEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS

A “bob” frames your features and bangs add softness. Blow dry with a round brush for volume.

Specially Designed Cosmetic Bag Easily carry your essentials in one neat, concise space.

Unique, Magnetic Compact with Full Mirror Super strong magnet holds your custom cosmetics securely.

Exercise

Exercise keeps your body looking and feeling young. Look for classes at your local community center.

Hours of Operation Tues-Fri, 9am-5pm

Make an appointment with the award winning hair and makeup artist, Sherri Jessee.

CALL TODAY! 1932 Euclid Avenue Bristol, VA 24201 276.466.2689 | sherrijessee.com

For more beauty tips, watch FAB FRIDAY Facebook Live Makeup Demonstrations at 8am every Friday and replay on VIPSEEN Live! on Facebook.

Johnson City ROY HARMON AND LEWIS WEXLER JR.

MAUREEN MULROY

MICHELLE TREECE, STEPHANIE LATTANY, AND HAL HUNTER

Sesquicentennial Commission Breaks Ground on Legacy Plaza EVENT COVERED BY ALICE SALYER

The rain cleared off for the Johnson City Sesquicentennial Commission, Fundraising Committee and local business and community leaders to gather in King Commons for a Groundbreaking Ceremony on Thursday, June 13. The groundbreaking recognized the first phase of the sesquicentennial legacy project, the Legacy Plaza, which includes a history circle and “tri-star area.” The project was selected by the Commission to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the City’s founding. The site will be a multi-generational, allinclusive site for families to gather in downtown Johnson City.

The history circle design includes four concentric rings with engraved blocks listing key dates and information about Johnson City history. At the center of the rings will be a commissioned art piece chosen by the Johnson City Public

Art Committee. A time capsule will be buried beneath the plaza.

The sesquicentennial will commence on December 1, the day the City received its charter from the state, with a public celebration and time capsule burial.

The “tri-star area” pays tribute to the Tennessee State flag, designed by Johnson City resident Colonel Le Roy Reeves.

Officials shared their hopes that the legacy project will provide education opportunities and civic pride for area families for many years to come.

For more information about the project or yearlong sesquicentennial celebration, visit www.jctn150.com or follow @jctn150 on Facebook.

AMY FULKERSON, AMY PIERCE, NATHANIAL YOUNG, AND PHIL PINDZOLA

LAURI HALE AND MAYOR JENNY BROCK

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REV LESTER D LATTANY AND PETE PETERSON

REBECCA HENDERSON AND LARRY REAVES

Johnson City KAITLYN BAKER OPENS SATURDAY’S EVENTS

SAM AND GERRAD

JOHNATHAN MINGA AND MATT BOLTON

Blue Plum Festival 2019 EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Rain has become as much of a tradition as the Blue Plum festival itself, and the weekend of June 7-8, 2019 was no exception. This did not stop the crowds from braving the rain and coming out to celebrate.

The Blue Plum festival is held the first weekend in June each year and started in 1999 with the purpose of drawing attention to the downtown area of Johnson City.

The festival this year stayed in its location around the Founder’s Park and Farmer’s Market Pavilion area, but some events spread all the way to Tipton Street, where local artist Laura Bowman was opening her exhibit Meditations for Chaos: Fiber Art by Laura Bowman at the Tipton Street Gallery.

SONYA WHITE AND KRISTY BAGLEY

The festival includes a 5k race and the festival. Two stages of musical guests performed for crowds this year. Art and Craft vendors featured everything from jewelry made from broken china pieces to organics made from locally grown hemp.

Food vendors and local restaurants stayed hopping at the two-day event. An area that focused just on Children’s fun rounded out the festivities.

Local businesses and non-profit community organizations were also out and about to meet new regional friends and highlight what they offer to Johnson City.

Those that waited for the rain to clear to enjoy the festival or for those that stayed out in the rain had a great time with so much to do. No matter what you were interested in, there was something at Blue Plum to interest you.

MARIA AND HANNAH

BRITTNEY FERGUSON WITH EXPERIENCED ORGANICS

PRIDE COMMUNITY CENTER IN JOHNSON CITY

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DEANNA THOMAS, JERON AND STEPHANIE JACKSON

KAREN HARRELL AND CAROLEE MABE

GABBY TESTERMAN AND JESSIE BUCHANAN

KAREN AND CHASSITY

MARISSA AND CHRISTINA

JILL PIERCY

CASSANDRA LIPSCOMB, ANTHONY PELUSA, SAVANNAH BROYLES LAURA BOWMEN

O R G A N I Z AT I O N The Blue Plum organization has the mission to invest in the success of downtown Johnson City through cultural experiences. The organization hopes to create lifelong memories.

The organization hosts four events during the year to bring the community together and promote health, community and the arts.

For more information about being a volunteer or to learn more about the events of the organization visit them at www.blueplum.org.

NIYLA, JAYSI, CHARLETTE, AND NIA

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Johnson City

JOHN ADAMS

Color Splash 5k EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Girls of the Run of Northeast Tennessee hosted their Color Splash Spring 5k on May 11. Girls and boys of all ages were welcomed to participate in a morning of colorful fun! Girls on the Run awarded cash prizes to the schools with the most registered participants. This year those winners were Emmet and John Adams Elementary Schools. The race was held at Southside Elementary School in Johnson City. Just before the start time, all participants got together to warm up and then threw their color packets in the air. The field was a rainbow explosion and after the color cloud settled the participants were ready to race!

EMMET ELEMENTARY

FALL BRANCH ELEMENTARY

FAIRMONT

SURGOINSVILLE

Girls on the Run combines 5K training with healthy living education. The 12-week training program is delivered by volunteer coaches and teaches very specific social and personal skills.

The program culminates in non-competitive 5K event which gives girls a chance to shine, as well as an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.

The unique and innovative curriculum combines physical training with uplifting lessons that encourage positive emotional, social, and mental development.

To learn more visit www.gotrnetn.org LILLI AND ANNA

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Johnson City

Tri-Cities PRSA Chapter Annual Awards Celebration SUBMITTED BY BRAD LIFFORD

Public relations and communications professionals from the Tri-Cities region were recently honored for outstanding work at the Tri-Cities Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) annual Awards Celebration.

Held at Our House Restaurant in Johnson City, the celebration honored 25 projects with awards of Excellence (first place), Quality (second place) and Merit (third place) in a wide range of categories to capture the breadth of work in communications and public relations.

Judges from the PRSA chapter in Memphis evaluated entries on criteria that included planning, execution, evaluation and effective use of budget.

The Tri-Cities Chapter also presented its highest service award, the Rod Irvin Excellence in Public Relations Award, to Mary Ellen Miller, an accomplished communications professional who has earned the Accreditation in Public Relations, commonly known as the APR and one of the highest credentials in the business.

Eastman received the Best in Show Award, for an entry in the category of internal communications. Judges chose that project as the top overall entry for its excellence in planning and delivering communications to employees as the company transitioned health savings account providers.

These entities and/or individuals received an Award of Excellence:

• Emory & Henry College received one (in the category of magazines/periodicals);

• The Corporate Image received three (two in newsletters, one in media relations);

• Eastman received seven (three in internal communications, two in events, one in video communications, one in collateral/ posters); and

• Nuclear Fuel Services received one (in collateral).

The Corporate Image earned three Awards of Quality, followed by one each for Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Creative Energy and Eastman.

Certificates of Merit were also presented for exceptional work.

Tennessee Valley Authority received two of those honors, followed by these entities with one each: Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy, Nuclear Fuel Services, Eastman and The Corporate Image.

The evening celebration was capped with the presentation of the Rod Irvin Award to Miller. That award is given to career professionals who have made a significant contribution to the profession of public relations in the Tri-Cities. It is named for the late Rod Irvin, a longtime

Eastman spokesman who helped define standards of excellence for public relations and communications professionals in the Tri-Cities.

Tri-Cities Chapter board members and past winners of the Irvin Award chose Miller for her role in establishing the chapter – she is one of the founding members of Tri-Cities PRSA – and her many career achievements. Currently a community relations strategist for TVA’s Boone Dam Project, Miller gained recognition for being the founder and CEO of MarketingMel, an award-winning communications consulting firm in Johnson City. In addition to communications work with several other entities and non-profits in the Tri-Cities, Miller has long been noted for her outreach to higher education students, especially those at East Tennessee State University and Milligan College. She has been a mentor and lecturer at both schools and funds an annual MarketingMel PR scholarship at ETSU. “Our chapter is excited to count Mary Ellen Miller among the esteemed professionals who have received our highest award,” said Brad Lifford, president of Tri-Cities PRSA. “When you look at her overall body of work, Mary Ellen has established a career that any professional would do well to model. She continues to be active in our chapter, especially in her outreach to the next generation of communications professionals. She is a valuable advocate for the profession.”

Miller was nominated for the Rod Irvin Award by Nancy Williams, a public relations instructor at Milligan.

“I am truly honored and humbled to be given this award of highest distinction from the Tri-Cities PRSA chapter,” Miller said. “Rod Irvin was a man of great integrity who was always the consummate public relations professional in his leadership roles at Milligan, Eastman and PRSA. He was the first accredited public relations professional from our region. It is indeed an honor to follow in his footsteps. I shall always treasure this award and I am so grateful to Nancy Williams for nominating me for this chapter’s highest personal honor.”

Established in 2002, the Tri-Cities TN/VA Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America is a nonprofit, professional organization of communications specialists across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. These professionals represent a number of businesses and industries in the Tri-Cities, including Fortune 500 companies, leading healthcare organizations, public relations firms, transportation and tourism entities, as well as higher education institutions and nonprofit associations.

The chapter holds monthly meetings that feature a variety of guest speakers. For more information, visit the chapter’s Facebook page. vipseenmag.com

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Johnson City CLAIRE AND APRIL ROBERTS

TANYA VANCE AND CHRIS WALKER

RUTH, ALLISON AND BOB

2019 JDRF One Walk Tri-Cities EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Sunday, May 19th, the 2019 JDRF One Walk Tri-Cities was held at Founders Park in Johnson City. JDRF One Walk is a fun, family-friendly event where dedicated walkers, volunteers, and sponsors raise money to make living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) safer and healthier—until it is no longer a threat.

T1D is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly. It has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle—and it’s serious and stressful to manage. There is nothing you can do to prevent T1D and there is currently no cure.

It was a sunny, beautiful afternoon for the 5K. There was also a fun photo booth, inflatables, and more for families to enjoy.

BETHANY JONES AND JAKE SELBY

TEAM COLDEN

CONNER AND SCOTT ROBERTS

PRISCILLA AND DAVID BAYER

JDRF’s mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications. JDRF is the leading global organization funding T1D research. Their strength lies in their exclusive focus and singular influence on the worldwide effort to end T1D. For more information, please visit jdrf.org/ easttennessee or call 865-544-0768.

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KARLEIGH’S CREW

JAMES AND TAYLOR

Johnson City PEDIATRIC SUBSPECIALTIES

JDRF Springtime BBQ Barn Bash

TINA THOMAS AND SHELLIE FORT

EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

A group of local medical professionals are helping children affected by type 1 diabetes (T1D). The various medical offices have teamed up for the JDRF One Walk which was held on May 19th at Founders Park. Before the walk, on Monday, May 6, 2019, the group held a BBQ Barn Bash to raise money for that walk.

support important T1D research. The fundraiser for the team not only included food, but guests could bid on a variety of unique auction items.

Guests gathered at the lovely Barn at Boone Falls, located on Old Gray Station Road in Johnson City. The lovely atmosphere and warm temperatures had the children there rushing to the creek to play.

Team 308 says they are all medical professionals from the subspecialties like endocrinology, neurology, gastroenterology, and other specialties.

The group, calling themselves team 308, named after their office building, says 100% of the proceeds of the BBQ event will go to JDRF to

Music was provided by both a DJ and a musical performer and Jones Chiropractic was on hand to give chair massages to guests.

TARAH ORCUTT COORDINATED THE EVENT

The JDRF One Walk raised more than $160,000 for T1D research. More can be found on the JDRF website www.jdrg.org.

SCOTT AND SAVANNA MCDAVID TISH AND MARY GILBERT-SMITHERMAN

REBECCA MYERS AND PENNY THE JONES CHIROPRACTIC MASCOT

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is the leading global organization providing funding for research on Type 1 diabetes or T1D. JDRF improves the lives of those with T1D by researching for life-changing breakthroughs in search of a cure. Until that day they work at treatment of T1D. T1D is an autoimmune disease that affects children and adults suddenly.

Unlike its counterpart, type 1 has nothing to do with lifestyle, it can’t be prevented, and there is no cure.

JDRF works daily to change the reality of this disease for millions of people and to prevent anyone else from ever knowing it. They fund research, advocating for government support of research and new therapies, and connecting and engaging with the T1D community. The organization was founded by parents that wanted to find a cure and expanded with grassroots funding and advocacy efforts.

For more information about JDRF or to find out how to donate or volunteer go to www.jdrf.org.

SANAA SCOTT AND NANCY HOPSON

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Elizabethton MCKENZIE AND GRACIE

NORTHWESTERN COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

Elizabethton Covered Bridge Fest EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

The 53rd Annual Covered Bridge Celebration took place June 14 and 15 in Elizabethton, Tennessee. This yearly celebration includes live music from a variety of artists, homemade crafts and décor, a kids corner, and delicious food vendors from all over Appalachia. This event was a celebration that the whole family could enjoy!

Downtown Elizabethton businesses were open late to welcome visitors and locals alike. The celebration also included special events such as Evenings on Elk, Covered Bridge 5K, and a ribbon cutting of The Riverside Taphouse.

To learn more visit http://www.elizabethtonchamber.com/pages/CBC. ELIZABETH, HANNAH, AND MCKENZIE

TOM MORRIS, JARED HODGES, AND SARAH MORRIS

THE POSSUM 96.3 FM

INTEGRAL CHIROPRACTIC

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Elizabethton ZOE AND RALPHIE

RENIE YOUNCE AND JENNIFER HARRAH

STEPHANIE AND WHITNEY

Covered Bridge 5k EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

For almost too many years to count, racers and walkers have gathered near what is now Covered Bridge Park in downtown Elizabethton. The early morning festivities got things started for the Saturday events of the annual Covered Bridge Festival.

Racers gathered on June 15, 2019 to run the race, which has a different course for runners and walkers. Part of this years race took place on the Tweetsie Trail. This way the runners have a clear path for their race, and the walkers can take their time for the fun walk.

JAMIE MAINS-MILHORN, MAVEN PINKSTON, AND KATIE LITTLE

Proceeds from the race go to the Ballad Health Foundation supporting Sycamore Shoals Hospital. The Ballad Health affiliated hospital says the money from the foundation is used to do projects around the hospital that are otherwise not included in the budget.

For more information about the Ballad Foundation, please visit balladhealth.org.

PAT BOWERS, KRISTY AND CHRIS GLOVER, AND NICHOLAS GLOVER

AMANDA HUBBARD AND KIM WRIGHT

ELIJAH CIPCHRCHIR

MICHELLE KILLEN AND AMY SMITH

STARTING LINE

TEAM WANDELL

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Elizabethton

AUTHOR CIERRA LINKA AND ILLUSTRATOR CLARA REYNOLDS

LILY, STEVIE, AND LAURYN

Roan Scholar Book Signing ‘‘Peppy, the Easy-Going Racehorse’’ EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

The Bonnie Kate Theatre in Elizabethton was host to two ETSU Roan Scholars that recently published their first book. The May 16th event, “It’s A Peppy Party” was sponsored by the Roan Scholars Leadership Program. It welcomed area children and their families to meet the author and illustrator of “Peppy: The Easy-Going Racehorse”.

The first one hundred kids were given free copies of the book. The event included snacks, kids’ activities, a meet and greet with the author and illustrator, and of course a special visit by Peppy, the horse the book is based on.

Author Cierra Linka based the story on a horse used in equine therapy at Holston Home for Children in Greeneville, TN. She worked with Peppy during her Roan Summer of Service. “Peppy is a horse that taught me a lot, “states Linka. She says she hopes the book inspires adults and children alike to be themselves.

Partnering with Linka on the project is Clara Reynolds. A talented artist that until the afternoon of the event, had never actually met Peppy faceto-face. Reynolds used photos for her renderings of Peppy.

Linka’s interest in literacy came after it was a focus topic for the Roan Scholars Leadership Program. As part of a way to make an impact to the community, she used her experience from her time at the children’s home and began working on her Peppy book.

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Area donors came together to have the book printed and Roan Scholars sponsored “It’s a Peppy Party!”

DESSI FOSTER, SCOTT JEFFRESS, AND TIFFANI CARRASCO

MIA AND AVA

The Roan Scholars Leadership Program is a premier scholarship program at East Tennessee State University for students across our region who have demonstrated the potential and the desire to become exceptional leaders.

Through four years of unique out-of-classroom educational experiences, they challenge, inspire, connect and support so that the scholars can impact the world.

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For more information about the Roan Scholars Leadership Program at ETSU, visit roascholars.org.

Elizabethton TEN STUDENTS SIGNED WITH KLEIN TOOLS

JAMES MONROE, AUSTIN AYERS

Klein Tools Signing Day EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Signing days are no longer just for athletes going to play college sports. In fact, some aren’t athletes at all, but that doesn’t mean their path to success shouldn’t be celebrated and one local high school is doing just that.

Ten students were honored during a ceremony held at Happy Valley High School in Elizabethton Tennessee. The event was sponsored

by Klein Tools and is geared toward rewarding students that have excelled in technical courses like electrical, building, and plumbing.

The event was held the morning of May 8, 2019 in the gymnasium.

Students, teachers, and parents were on hand as the ten donned their hats and signed their intent forms. The intent to attend were for either Northeast State or Tennessee College of Applied Technology, two schools that will allow the students to continue learning their technical occupation.

ANGEL HICKS (UPSPACING), LISA LUSTER (JOHNSON CITY HOME BUILDER ASSOCIATION), AND DAVE ISAACS (ISAAC’S POOL AND SPA)

The event was one of only three held in the state of Tennessee, and there were less than two hundred of these Klein Tools sponsored ceremonies throughout the country.

Technical teacher and mentor James Monroe expressed his pride in the young men that were chosen. He expressed to the audience that not every kid wants a 4-year-college education and that technical trades can earn great income with little or no student debt.

Klein Tools provided the signees swag bags, which included a coupon for a full too set from Home Depot, hats, t-shirts, and a pair of Klein electrical pliers, which are valued at over $50.00. Klein Tools also set up an entire social media platform just for signing day.

Elizabethton JACKIE CAMPBELL, DAVID BASS, CATHY LEONARD

ELIZABETH WILLIAMS AND GINNY WRIGHT

JOHN AND FREDA WAGNER WITH BOB KESLING

Steak and Burger 2019 EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

It was another successful year of the Steak and Burger event for the Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County. The club held their annual event at the Tennessee College for Applied Technology on May 23, 2019.

CARTER COUNTY MAYOR RUSSELL “RUSTY” BARNETT

SOPHIA, KYLEE, AND GEORGIA

MICHAEL, TRACY GUY (THIS YEAR’S PARENT SPEAKER), TRULA, VIOLETE, AND BARBARA

One of the great draws of the event has been its list of highly anticipated guest speakers that have taken part in the event. This year was no exception as the “Voice of the Vols” Bob Kesling was there to share his story.

Another group that the guests look forward to meeting are the child ambassadors for the event. The kids are all members of the Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County and represent the club in a variety of ways at the event. Some help co-host, while others are greeters, seated at each table to tell guests about how the club has impacted them.

2019 Youth of the Year for the Club Kylee, spoke to the guests about her experiences at the club. Also speaking was parent Tracy Guy, who told the audience that she is thankful for the

work being done at the club. Her son needs structure and a schedule to meet his needs, and the club provides that. Guy says that they work with her son to keep his educational goals on schedule and that the extra support that they provide is vital to keep him on track.

Kesling spoke about the kids always needing to be “in the game” of life and that should keep playing even if it feels like they aren’t always winning. Kesling had a chance to meet each of the child ambassadors before the event.

The night ended not with fireworks that briefly shine bright and fizzle out, but with a warm glow that remained steady and soared to great heights. The club had paper lanterns at each table. Guests were able to write dreams for the children on the lanterns and then launch them into the evening sky.

The event raised $65,000 that will be used for scholarships for those children and their families that are unable to afford the fees for attending the club.

CATHERINE AND BRENT WELCH WITH BONNIE AND MICHAEL MCCORMICK

The Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County works to enable all young people, especially those that need them most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. They provide after school tutoring, meals and snacks for the kids, summer educational programs, and field trips and experiences that are truly life-changing.

More information about Boys and Girls Club of Elizabethton at www.bgcecc.org.

THE 2019 STEAK AND BURGER CLUB AMBASSADORS

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Elizabethton RONDA AND SOPHIE PAULSON

BRAD AND ANTHONY

Isaiah117 House Golf Tournament EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Friday, May 17th, Isaiah117 House held their annual golf tournament at the Elizabethton Golf Club. The day started with a catered lunch from Barberitos with the shotgun start at noon. Teams played in a scramble format on the beautiful course. Prizes went to the top 3 teams as well as Hole in One, putting contest, long drive, and closest to the pin.

All proceeds benefitted the Isaiah117 House. Isaiah117 House provides physical and emotional support in a safe and loving home for children awaiting foster care placement.

For more information, visit www.isaiah117house.com or call 423-773-5677.

DREW BEDARD AND JT THOMAS

BEN HALEY, SETH FRANKLIN, CALOP BARNETT, AND CHAD BURKS

TIM, TRAVIS, AND DUSTY

JOSH, JARROD, AND NATHAN

VOLUNTEERS

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Unicoi

KATHY BLACKBURN

CAILEE AND CLOE WELTY

17th Annual Unicoi Strawberry Festival EVENT COVERED BY ALICE SALYER

The Town of Unicoi and Scott’s Strawberry Farms hosted the 17th Annual Strawberry Festival at the Unicoi Elementary School in the Town of Unicoi on Saturday, May 18. People from all over the region gathered throughout the day to enjoy vendors, music, inflatables, pony rides and of course, strawberries. Vendors included local artisans, food, small businesses and volunteer organizations. Arts and craft vendors sold a variety of unique items such as handmade goat’s milk soaps, book covers, woodcrafts, hand lettered signs and art, clothing, African jewelry and carvings. Volunteer groups included several local churches and

the Unicoi Volunteer Fire Department.

The Volunteer Fire Department shared their truck with excited local children, and they are always on the lookout for new recruits.

LAURA AND RENAE ROGERS

Food vendors served burgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes, cotton candy, slushies, tamales and all things strawberry. Scott’s popular fresh strawberries sold out fast and only preserves were available by midafternoon. Families of all kinds turned out to enjoy the beautiful day.

The festival celebrates the culture, heritage, food, music and crafts of our diverse Southern Appalachian region.

UNICOI VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

MAYOR JOHNNY LYNCH AND TOWN ATTORNEY, LOIS SHULTS-DAVIS

KAYLEE NICHOLSON AND JESSICA PARKER

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CHASITY AND RAINA

CHAPLAIN, LYLE C. WILCOX & ASSISTANT CITY RECORDER, TINA “MK” AND VOLUNTEER, TERESA FARMER

UNICOI CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Blountville

SUPER FORTRESS “FIFI”

TRASK MARDEN AND SYLVIA SAADATI

TERRY AND KAREN WELCH

Tri-Cities Aviation Celebration EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

RICHARD AND JILL ELLIOT

The Commemorative Air Force Air Power History Tour flew into the Tri-Cities on Wednesday, May 29th and landed at the Tri-Cities Airport. The Boeing B-29 Superfortress, FiFi, and the Consolidated B-24 Liberator, Diamond Lil, C-45 Expeditor and PT-13 Stearman were the World War II era aircraft on display through Sunday, June 2nd. Rides and tours for each aircraft were available for attendees to enjoy. A variety of food trucks were also on site.

Merchandise was sold at the event with proceeds going to the Appalachian Aviatrixes of the Ninety-Nines scholarship fund which helps female pilots earn their wings. For more information on upcoming events, please visit www. tricitiesflight.com.

PT-13 WORLD WAR 1

LIBERATOR

CORRIE HERTZOG

NATHAN AND MARVIN

SAMANTHA, KAIDEN, VERA, AND RANDY

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Tri-Cities Love 97.3 FM Summer Concert Series EVENT COVERED BY ANGELICA ARES AND ANGELA BAKER

97.3 Love FM is a part of the Appalachian Educational Communication Corporation (AECC), recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the rules of the Internal Revenue Service.

opened every concert with his magic/ illusion show. Before the main event at each concert, Jeremiah School was on hand to collect change for their organization.

The mission of Love FM is to use music to worship God, encourage believers and lead others to Christ.

Jeremiah School is the only therapeutic day school in the Tri-Cities for students on the autism spectrum.

The school tailors their curriculum to fit the very specific needs of each child, using their own interests as a starting point to truly engage students in the learning process.

This Summer, Love FM kicked off its inaugural Summer Concert Series in Kingsport with Contemporary Christian Artist Austin French, followed by concerts in Blountville featuring Josh Wilson, Johnson City featuring Stars Go Dim, Elizabethton with Dan Bremnes, Downtown Erwin with Bonray, and ending the series Russ Taff in Abingdon.

April Barnes hosted the concerts for Love FM and Magician Dave Vaught

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For more information on Love FM, please visit loveradio.fm or like them on Facebook @lovefmtricities. For information about Jeremiah School, please visit jeremiahschool.com or like them on Facebook @Jeremiahschooljc.

Gray

FREEDOM FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS CATHY MILLIGAN AND BRENDA DEYTON

BAGLEY FAMILY

Freedom Festival EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

For a second year, organizers raised money and awareness for missions of Ethos Movement International, Inc. The event was held June 15, 2019 at the Appalachian Fairgrounds.

attendees to participate and receive one of several great gift basket prizes.

The event featured over 50 arts and carfts vendors, a variety of food trucks, and a tour to show the mission of Ethos and the difference they are making.

The mission is for outreach to poor African countries to assist in training indigenous missionaries. It’s a grass roots effort to provide skills and mobilize self-sustaining movements for these new missionaries. Their goal is to have a team in each country in Africa.

They had a paws and cause red carpet runway for the fur friends with gift baskets and a $100 prize. There were also other contests that allowed

For more information on the mission of the Freedom Festival, please visit the Ethos Movement International Inc. website at www.ethosmi.org.

WENDY WAKE

JERI JONES AND PAM JOHNSON

NATALIE, ROBERT, AND EVIA

Abingdon

MAKENZIE HELTON, KAYTI HATCHER, DEBORAH LEDFORD, TRAVIS FERGUSON, AND DAVID CLARK – MEMBERS OF THE GREAT EXPECTATIONS PROGRAM

Richard Leigh Songwriting Competition EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

On May 24th and 25th aspiring songwriters gathered at Virginia Highlands Community College to compete in Richard Leigh Songwriting Competition. They were joined by 4 Grammy awardwinning songwriters—Richard Leigh, Tony Arata, Even Stevens, and Jim McBride. Guests enjoyed food and drinks while listening to performances by these new songwriters in categories such as gospel, country, folk, pop, and more! These songwriters shared their stories and the inspiration behind their music. On Saturday the winners of each category were announced, and writer Dan Curry was named the grand prize winner and was invited to perform alongside Nashville’s greats.

Each year this competition supports the Great Expectations program, which helps the region’s foster youth complete high school, gain access to a community college education, and transition successfully from the foster care system to living independently. This program helps with career exploration and coaching, applying for college and financial aid, personalized academic counseling, applying for jobs, and life skills such as managing finances. For more information about the Great Expectations program, or to find the full list of winners of this year’s competition, go to www.richardleighsongwritersfestival.com

THIS YEAR’S FINALISTS AND WINNERS

EVEN STEVENS, JIM MCBRIDE, AND RICHARD LEIGH

TONY ARATA, A 7-YEAR ATTENDEE OF THE COMPETITION, SHARES SOME INSPIRATION & WISDOM

JON MCGLOCKLIN AND JAMES DENTON, LAST YEAR’S COMPETITION WINNER, PERFORM HIS SONG “FIREFLIES”

Abingdon

COURTNEY REEDY, LILLIAN BELL, AND CARYS REEDS

KIWANIS MEMBERS, LUCY PHILLIPS AND MICKEY TYLER

MICHAEL, PORTRAYING GEORGE THOMASSON

Plumb Alley Day STORY BY J.W. HORNSBY, KIWANIS CHAIRMAN OF PLUMB ALLEY DAY | PHOTOS BY LINDA COFFEY

The Kiwanis Club of Abingdon held its 37th Annual Plumb Alley Day festival on Saturday, May 25. It was held on Plumb Alley, the lane which runs behind the Barter Theatre in Abingdon’s historic district, and drew about 8,000 attendees.

There were plenty of activities for all ages. Children flocked to the FUN ZONE for the Swing Ride, inflatable, games with prizes and the popular Chalk Drawing Contest. Adults enjoyed the great shopping as well as the entertainment provided by the Appalachian Highlanders bagpipes and two youth dance groups.

A wide variety of food and drinks was available – from corn dogs and funnel cakes to fresh local food vendors.

For history buffs, Revolutionary War re-enactment took place at the Yeary Cabin. Everyone was in period costumes, including one gentleman portraying

George Thomasson, an actual field drummer at the Battle of Kings Mountain!

Over 130 vendors offered art, clothing, jewelry, antiques, crafts and one-ofa-kind gifts. As with most events in a community, many people stopped to greet one another and catch up on life.

TERESA AND JENNIFER HOCKETT

The festival is free, but since it’s a fundraiser, members asked attendees to donate “a buck or two” for a Kiwanis sticker. All proceeds will be donated to children’s organizations in the Abingdon area.

Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time, with 600,000 members in more than 90 countries. For more information on the Abingdon club, visit their website at AbingdonKiwanis.org.

GEORGETTE AND KATHERINE GALLOWAY

ALIVIA

KATHRYN LARGE AND MEG CHAFIN

SIDEWALK ART BY REAGAN

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HALLIE RAMSEY, SHANNON RAMSEY, AND JADE LAWSON

RACHEL LAW

SHIANTI AND ELI ROARK

KIM MORGAN DEAN AND TRICIA MATTHEWS

Abingdon

FIELDING ROLSTON, STEVE AND DEBBIE SMITH, RICHARD ROSE

ZACCHAEUS KIMBRELL AND SEAN CAMPOS

JODY HARNSBERGER AND KIM MORGAN DEAN

CLIFF SALYER AND CARSON GILMER

Barter Theatre’s Opening Night and Gala for Shrek the Musical EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY FIELDING AND JOYCE ROLSTON

AMANDA AND JARED LEONARD

STEVE SMITH, EMILY O’QUINN, AND EDWINA ANDERSON

It was one of those memorable nights in the theatre. With a sold-out crowd in attendance, the audience responded with cheers, applause, laughter, and tears to Barter Theatre’s production of “Shrek The Musical”. The musical offers humor and a lesson for everyone, as the outcast storybook characters had the audience on their feet with “Raise your Freak Flag”.

Known for their lavish sets and costumes, Barter’s production team has outdone themselves with “Shrek”. Not to give any secrets away, but what would a fire-breathing dragon be without puffs of smoke and fire? The costumes and makeup look like they have come straight from Broadway, but they have been carefully crafted in the studios of Barter.

Barter Theatre continues to transform the theatre experience in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. With groups coming from different states and even other countries, don’t miss what is in our own neighborhood. You might also meet a friendly ogre (or two)!

A gala was held after the opening night performance at Food City’s Corporate Offices. As guests arrived, they quickly took photos of the watermelon-shaped centerpieces – depicting Donkey and Shrek. The talent from Barter mingled with guests for pictures and conversation.

It was a truly magical evening.

For ticket information, visit Barter’s website at www.bartertheatre.com

MERRY AND BEN JENNINGS

LAURA AND MAYOR WAYNE CRAIG

EDWINA ANDERSON, MARY LUCY BIVENS, AND AMANDA ALDRIDGE

RICHARD ROSE AND FIELDING ROLSTON

JOHN, MILLY, AND JUDSON RAINERO

SARAH LAUGHLAND, ASHLEY CAMPOS, AND HANNAH INGRAM

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Abingdon

Food City Produce Manager

Receives National Award The candidates are selected from hundreds of nominations submitted by supermarket chains, commissaries and independent retail stores throughout the industry. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in the areas of produce merchandising/marketing, community service and commitment to total customer satisfaction.

“We would certainly like to congratulate David on this well-deserved nomination. He is a tremendous asset to our company and the community as a whole,” says Bucky Slagle, Food City director of produce operations.

Scarlett is an exceptional merchandiser and has received a number of national awards. He enjoys creating special displays to engage and educate on the many health benefits of produce. He also utilizes his in-store sampling program to share product knowledge and the related health benefits with his customers and fellow associates. Scarlett takes and active role within his community, providing produce to his local high school football team and conducting department tours for area school children SHAWN SHELTON, FOOD CITY PRODUCE SUPERVISOR ; DAVID SCARLETT, WINNER ; to encourage healthy eating habits. He is also a AND DONNY RECTOR, FOOD CITY STORE MANAGER strong supporter of local farmers, creating additional displays of locally grown produce and promoting the David Scarlett, produce manager for Food City’s Deane Hill products and their growers – having developed a location in Knoxville, TN was just named a grand-prize winner strong working relationship with many of the local farmers in the 2019 Retail Produce Manager of the Year Awards. within his community. He has a keen understanding of Each year, United Fresh Produce Association recognizes the the important role that locally grown produce plays in his top 25 produce managers within the industry during their community and the region as a whole. annual convention. Five grand-prize winners are selected from among the field of competitors. This year’s convention Food City associates were also named award winners in was held in Chicago, IL, June 10-12th.

2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 – ten of which, the “These men and women represent the “best of the best” company boasted a grand-prize winner. in our industry,” says Tom Stenzel, United Fresh president & chief executive officer. “Through their creative efforts Headquartered in Abingdon, Virginia, K-VA-T Food Stores and interaction with customers, they’re making produce a (Food City’s parent company) operates 131 retail outlets centerpiece of the retail shopping experience and wowing throughout southeast Kentucky, southwest Virginia, east consumers everyday.”

Tennessee, Chattanooga and north Georgia.

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june 2019

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