VIPSEEN March 2019

ALSO INSIDE: BRISTOL TN/VA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL AWARDS KINGSPORT CHAMBER 72nd ANNUAL DINNER JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

SPECIAL FEATURE

2019

POWER WOMEN

VIPSEEN-Mar19Cover.indd 3

3/4/19 12:54 PM

VIPSEEN-Mar19Cover.indd 4

3/4/19 12:54 PM

FC Delive

Calendar MARCH 4 6:30pm FARM TO TABLE Abingdon Vineyards Abingdon, VA 276-623-1121 asdevelop.org

1pm BATTLE OF THE CALL CENTERS ETSU Mini Dome Johnson City, TN 423-267-7172 marchofdimes.org

MARCH 8

MARCH 14 2019 IMPACT AWARDS Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center Abingdon, VA 276-628-2160 unitedwayswva.org

MARCH 9 6pm COOKIE CREATIONS Blackthorn Club Jonesborough, TN 800-474-1912 girlscoutcsa.org/ cookiecreations MARCH 12 NATIONAL PLANT A FLOWER DAY

MARCH 2019

MARCH 15 6pm 6TH ANNUAL WASHINGTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL AND BUSINESS APPRECIATION DINNER Appalachian Fairgrounds Gray, TN 423-461-8000 Johnsoncitytnchamber.com 6:30pm SHAMROCK 4-MILER Abingdon Farmers Market Abingdon, VA balladhealth.org/foundationevents/shamrock-4-miler MARCH 16 7pm ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY Warehouse 817 Bristol, VA 276-821-5615 bvpsfoundation.org

FEBRUARY @ BARTER THEATRE:

Morning After Grace Book and Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerne r Music by Frederick Loewe

Set amongst the mystical forests and striving for the perfect civilization, Camelot tells the beloved tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table as they strive to bring goodness and fairness to a world in turmoil and fear. With legendary and romantic score (“If Ever I Would Leave You,” “I Loved You Once in Silence”), Camelot has won the hearts of generations of

4

january/february 2019

MARCH 17

MARCH 18 12pm TENNESSEE ENVIRONMENTAL CONFERENCE GOLF TOURNAMENT Cattails at MeadowView Golf Course Kingsport, TN 423-854-5459 tnenvironment.com/golf MARCH 20

MARCH 21

MARCH 21-23 3RD ANNUAL JOHNSON CITY JAZZ FESTIVAL Carnegie Hotel Johnson City, TN johnsoncityjazzfestival.com

MARCH 23 8am JOGGIN FOR THE NOGGIN 2019 Crumley House Brain Injury Rehab Limestone, TN 423-257-3644 crumleyhouse.com MARCH 29 8pm TRI-CITIES 3RD ANNUAL ADULT PROM Holiday Inn Johnson City, TN 423-512-1546 legacynightlyfe.com MARCH 30 3pm ABSOLUTELYABLE FESITVAL Crossroads Christian Church Gray, TN 423-928-9362 arcwc.org 5pm ELIZABETHTON DOWNTOWN ART WALK Downtown Elizabethton 585-406-3255 blueriverstudiollc@gmail.com 6pm GREAT GATSBY GALA The Bristol Hotel Bristol, VA 276-466-2218 crisiscenterinc.org

musical theatre lovers. Filled with adventure, struggles, love, and idealism that champions the potential of humankind, this story is sure to warm your heart and fill you with wonder and joy at the possibility of what can be achieved in a world filled with ideals.

Other shows this month CAMELOT

Visit www.BarterTheatre.com or call 276-628-3991 for show times and to purchase tickets.

Contents

FEATURES

9

MARCH 2019

SPECIAL FEATURE 100+ TRI-CITIES WOMEN WHO CARE

11

EXCLUSIVE FEATURE 2019 POWER WOMEN

Featuring women in our area that are always willing to give of their time to support other women and our region as a whole.

12

DEPARTMENTS

COVER STORY DR. ANGELA CAMERON

34

NONPROFIT PROFILE THE IMPACT OF JUNIOR LEAGUES AROUND THE REGION

2019 Power Woman Dr. Angela Cameron shares her story.

58

36

SPECIAL FEATURE BUSINESS HEALTH COLLABORATIVE

WITBIT W/ BETH STREET THE REAL MADNESS

88

38

SPECIAL FEATURE ACCOUNTABLE CARE COMMUNITY PRESS CONFERENCE

NONPROFIT PROFILE BRISTOL CRISIS CENTER SEEKING HELP TO HELP OTHERS

40

VIPBEAUTY MARCH BEAUTY TIPS

76

VIP TASTES ABINGDON OLIVE OIL

What does the term “cold pressed” olive oil mean?

Regional leaders announce plans for Accountable Care Community.

ALSO INSIDE: BRISTOL TN/VA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL AWARDS

94

KINGSPORT CHAMBER 72nd ANNUAL DINNER JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

SPECIAL FEATURE

2019

POWER

SPECIAL FEATURE KINGSPORT’S MIRACLE FIELD

WOMEN

on the cover Dr. Angela Cameron, Sophisticated Smiles Photography by Nathan Mays Photography vipseenmag.com

5

contents

VIPSEEN

EVENTS

JOHNSON CITY 43 Bowman Jewelers Holiday Open House 44 Bidding for a Cause Singles Mingle 47 Johnson City Chamber

Membership Luncheon 48 Johnson City Boys and Girls Club

Annual Dinner and Awards 49 Martin Luther King Prayer Breakfast

hosted by Carver Recreation Center 50 The Chamber of Commerce Serving

Johnson City/Jonesborough/Washington

County February Chamber Breakfast 52 Niswonger Children’s Hospital Raffle 54 My Little Valentine: Daddy

Daughter Dance 56 Freezin’ for a Reason: Good Samaritan

Ministries, Inc.

BRISTOL 57 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March

and Celebration 60 Bristol Chamber Awards 2019 61 Wine & Chocolate Festival 62 Benjamin Walls After Hours 64 Bows and Bow Ties

Father/Daughter Ball JONESBOROUGH 65 Jonesborough Chocolate Fest 66 Langston Lives!

67 United Way of Washington

County Celebration 68 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Peace

Walk & Community Art Project

6

january/february 2019

FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker angela@vipseenmag.com CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares angelica_a@vipseenmag.com EVENTS COORDINATOR Allison Galloway allison@vipseenmag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Nathan Mays

BLOUNTVILLE 69 Drinkin’ Wine and Feline Fine 96 Food City Pet Hunger Drive Check Presentation GRAY 70 Tebow’s Night To Shine ERWIN/UNICOI 76 Erwin Daddy Daughter Dance KINGSPORT 77 The 19th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Holiday Parade 78 Leadership Kingsport Taco Tuesday 79 United Way of Greater Kingsport Annual Meeting 80 Leadership Giving Event 81 Racks By Tracks Press 2019 82 2019 Legislative Breakfast 82 Carver MLK Day Dinner 83 Eastman’s Black History Month Oratorical Contest 86 East Tennessee’s Annual RV and Recreation Show 87 Side Effects May Include 91 Annual Kingsport Chamber Dinner 2019

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

Whitney Carr whitney@vipseenmag.com Morgan King morgan@vipseenmag.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Allison Galloway Lexie Little Matthew Penix Beth Street Haley White PHOTOGRAPHY Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Allison Galloway Lexie Little Matthew Penix 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

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

She Says...

Being a woman in today’s society is no joke…especially for those of us who seemingly “have it all”.

I feel confident that I am not the only woman out there who sometimes gets a little overwhelmed with the pressures of life.

And if another person tries to explain “work-life” balance to me, my head might reenact that infamous scene from the movie The Exorcist. Please, do not misunderstand me… I am not complaining, I am simply venting. I feel blessed to live in a country where women before me paved the way so that I could be a voting, businessowning, board sitting, wife and mother. I think they did an excellent job of fighting for equal rights, equal pay, and equal treatment.

Here is what also happened…at least from my perspective… some of us (women) confused I can do anything I want with I must do everything they want…perfectly.

Today, as women, we can be whatever our heart desires and passionately pursues. I know this firsthand. The only one telling us we can’t have something is ourselves – and let’s just be honest – how often do we, as women, tell ourselves no? Not as often as we should, because saying no can sometimes feel like failure or make us feel weak. A weak person and a failure is the last thing a woman wants to be after busting her ass to get where she is.

So we take on more and more to prove we can do it all. From the outsider’s perspective we are killing it at work, at home, and at

02|07-03|31

the board meetings; what they can’t see though is we are also killing ourselves. All to prove what? I am still trying to figure that one out. The only thing I feel like I have been killing lately is me.

Trying to juggle a business and everything that comes along with having one of those things. Add that to being a wife, a mother to three amazing children (one in particular who happens to be very demanding of momma’s time and deservingly so), extended family, friendships, being a board member, and last but certainly not least, my relationship with God, has become increasingly difficult.

It is times like these, when all those things that I have been juggling start to fall, that I believe being a power woman means knowing your limits and owning them. I would rather be successful at one thing than feel like I am failing at everything.

One thing is certain, I am fortunate to be surrounded by other power women who know when one of their own is struggling and show up in various ways to help ease the pressures of life and remind me that I am not alone. The true power of a woman has nothing to do with titles or bank accounts…it comes from the heart.

Angela Baker, angela@vipseenmag.com

02|21-03|30

Barter Stage II

Gilliam Stage at Barter Theatre

Tickets Start at $20!

bartertheatre.com | 276.628.3991

STORY BY LEXIE LITTLE

E

ast Tennesseans embrace the moniker “Volunteer.”

However, hands-on help might not always be a possibility for those with limited time, limited means, or those who simply remain unsure of how to help their communities. But one Tri-Cities group aims to help those who wish to help.

The 100+ Tri-Cities Women Who Care group seeks to help local nonprofits through its “giving circle,” a group of women who contribute $100 four times annually to organizations of their nomination. Since last fall, the group has reached more than 100 members, enabling them to make their first “Big Give” contribution of $10,000 to Isaiah 117 House in February.

Becca Davis, Executive Director of ReFrame Association (a national network of home repair nonprofits), launched the project with an announcement in August 2018 after hearing about the 100 Who Care Alliance, a global volunteer network aimed at sharing ideas and best practices to improve communities.

“When I first heard about the 100 Who Care Alliance, it was through a Facebook group for nonprofit executives,” Davis

8

january/february 2019

said at the group’s inaugural event. “I knew immediately I wanted to start a chapter here in the Tri-Cities.”

More than 600 giving circles scatter the globe, including chapters for both sexes, children, teens, and all people.

Individuals join to meet other people, outline community goals, and contribute $400 annually to regional causes.

Many chapters like the Tri-Cities chapter also allow members who cannot afford to contribute the full amount to form teams; thus, teams of four contribute $25 per person while teams of two contribute $50. The ultimate fundraising goal remains $40,000 per year.

“I joined 100+ Tri-Cities Women Who Care because I want my donations to make a big difference locally,” member Nancy Knight said. “I could give $100 to a local charity myself, but by joining this group, that donation will be multiplied and will make a difference in the lives of more people, right here in our community.”

The first giving circle in Jackson, Michigan, formed in 2006 after founder Karen Dunigan launched an effort to combat needs for baby cribs, mattresses, and blankets in her community. A representative at the Jackson Center for Caring Mothers contacted Dunigan, saying the infant mortality rate in her city rose each day because of a lack

of cribs and asked her to help. Knowing she would struggle to coordinate a formal fundraiser, she called friends and found 100 individuals willing to donate $100 each. In the process, she birthed the now global phenomenon. Dunigan died of cancer in 2014, but members say she lives on with each new chapter.

The Tri-Cities organization held its inaugural event on Valentine’s Day, spreading love through charitable donation. The first “Big Give” recipient, Isaiah 117 House, provides a temporary home for children entering the foster placement system. Prior to its inception, children stayed with workers from the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. The donation from the Women Who Care will help the house provide safe and furnished rooms, upkeep on the yard with playground equipment, toys, and meals.

The giving circle also donated around $1,500 to Door of Hope, a crisis pregnancy help resource, and Holston Habitat for Humanity.

“When we are able to feed, clothe, provide care – when we have done it unto one of the least of these – we have fulfilled these needs for a higher purpose,” Tri-Cities member Deborah Mullins said. “In doing so, it increases our own quality of life in return, for in giving, we also receive.”

Every three months, the group will convene to listen to three presentations from local nonprofits nominated by members.

Members will then vote on which of the three receives the “Big Give” of $10,000.

“I’m excited to see all the wonderful things that are going to occur because of this giving circle,” Davis said. “Our group allows women to network, to learn about great things happening in our community, and to make a significant difference together.”

As more members join and embrace the volunteer spirit, more money will go to nonprofits, helping those in need – $100 at a time.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER: COMMIT. Fill out a short form so the organization knows how to reach you.

Teams may be formed up to 4 women.

Forms msy be accessed on the website, tricitieswomenwhocare.com.

SHOW UP. The organization meets one hour every three months. Feel free to bring a friend.

LISTEN. Local nonprofits will make three short presentations. Members may nominate a charity after joining.

VOTE. Pick a deserving local nonprofit from the three presenters.

WRITE A CHECK. Each woman (or team) donates $100 to the winning nonprofit.

100 members x $100 = $10,000.

Table of Contents 12 COVER STORY: DR. ANGELA CAMERON, Sophisticated Smiles

16 PATTI BAKER,

24 JONI HAYNES, Moon Tuxedo

26 ASHLEY & CASSIE HONAKER, Millennium Auto Collision & Repairs

Baker’s Jewelry

18 TRISHA CONDRA, Ta’Vie Boutique

20 DR. SUSAN CREECH, Colonial Heights Dental Group

22 ASHLEY GRINDSTAFF, Grindstaff Automotive Group

28 LORI PAYNE, GSM Filtration Inc.

30 K.C. ST. LOUIS, Abingdon Olive Oil Company

32 THE PINK LADIES, Friendship Automotive Group

vipseenmag.com

11

12

january/february 2019

cover story VIPSEEN

DR. ANGELA

CAMERON DDS, PC, FDOCS, LVIF, FAGD, and Owner of Sophisticated Smiles STORY BY LEXIE LITTLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY

“Win the morning, and you win the day.”

The alarm goes off, but Dr. Angela Cameron is already awake. She lies in bed for a moment, focusing on at least five people or things for which she feels gratitude. Taking time to reflect in silence, she prays for the day at hand and focuses on who she needs to be to accomplish each task on her agenda.

“I don’t turn on the radio or TV,” she says. “I don’t look at my phone, computer, or tablet devices.”

She stretches, eats breakfast, and peeks in to see if her husband and children are awake, offering hugs and kisses before heading out the door toward her Sophisticated Smiles dental practice.

Then, “it’s off to the races.”

Dr. Cameron, a native of Morristown, Tennessee, never imagined she would grow up to be a nationally recognized dental professional.

“I had no idea I would be a dentist when I was younger,” she says, eyes growing wide. “I didn’t decide that until pretty late in college. It’s just one of those things. Now, I can’t imagine being or doing anything else.”

Today, the renowned dentist featured in national media like New Beauty retains active member status in more than nine professional dental associations, daily committing to her mission of making East Tennesseans smile. She passes through the paned office doors, walking by a collection of custom art and countless awards lining the warm yellow walls as she winds toward her personal office.

“I like to be the first person in my office,” she says. “I usually arrive an hour before my first patient is scheduled. I enjoy the peace and quiet.”

She glances at her college degrees, hanging immediately outside her private office, as reminders of her journey:

After graduating from Morristown West High School, Cameron headed south to Furman University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Master of Science degree in Bio-Physical Chemistry; taking several graduate courses during her undergraduate studies. She completed her graduate degree in less than 14 months and felt a desire to further her education in dentistry, which continues to this day.

“I saw education as a way to better myself,” Dr. Cameron says. “You know, I think we’re so blessed to be in America.

I know America’s not a perfect country, I get it – there are problems everywhere all over the world. But, where else can you take someone who’s first generation college and go from humble circumstances to having all this?”

Dr. Cameron traverses the country to attend top-notch continuing education and training sessions for her assorted certifications like her fellowship status with the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD).

“The FAGD [certification] was a minimum of 500 hours plus a 2-day written exam,” she says. “I’m glad I did it because... the person I became by going through this process is more important than the award they give you when you’re done.”

The award came in the form of a pin and a diploma. Dr. Cameron wears the pin along with other pins from various certifications and conferences. In addition to pins, Dr. Cameron likes to pick up souvenirs in Las Vegas, Atlanta, and other cities where she takes courses to specialize and practice.

“I’ve been collecting Swarovski crystals since the 1990s,” she says. “When I would go to some of my courses or classes...I would always try to stop if there was a Swarovski crystal store, and I would pick up a little crystal figurine to signify what I was doing at that conference.”

She recalls a particular series of courses that required her to fly clear across the country, five times in one year.

“Each time I was there, I would get a little swan,” she says, vipseenmag.com

13

cover story VIPSEEN

smiling and gesturing a growth motion with her hands. “The transformational process of the ‘ugly duckling’ to the swan, or what have you...they had different sizes. When I look at my swans, I think back about those trips to Las Vegas.”

Cameron gained much more than skills and crystals during her educational journey. She met her husband, Dr. Jason Cunningham, at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry.

“I had to go to Memphis to meet a man from Erwin,” she says, laughing. “Some people may see it as a strange coincidence and others as fate.”

Dr. Cunningham operates two of his own practices, one in Erwin and one in Johnson City. Sharing a profession helps the couple to understand successes and struggles through direct and honest opinions, though for the first hour at home, they do not discuss dentistry or their offices.

“To be honest, we do not discuss work or business very much at home,” Dr. Cameron says. “When we are home, we focus on our kids, our family, our friends, and each other.”

Walking through the door after working a 12-hour day, Dr. Cameron relishes the opportunity to help her children, Andrew and Alexis, with school work, making sure they complete their science projects with their own wits and

tenacity – though she does lend a hand when X-Acto knives enter the process.

“I absolutely love being a mom,” Dr. Cameron says. “I am doing my best to raise my children to be responsible adults who contribute to society in a positive way while having fun and enjoying life. I think every parent wants their children to have a better life.”

As her “kiddos” strive to earn achievements at the science fair, Cameron strives to provide quality care, earning top honors from national organizations along the way. In 2012, she received a call for one award she’ll never forget.

“I was just at the office, just doing my thing, and the receptionist had taken a message and...said, ‘Dr. Cameron, it’s a producer from California – they want you to fly out and be on this TV show and be interviewed by William Shatner.’”

Shatner interviewed guests on Moving America Forward, also hosted by Doug Llewelyn of The People’s Court fame. The show promoted entrepreneurs who contribute to American innovations. Each featured guest received a special award in recognition of contributions to his or her field.

“I was like, ‘Okay, prank call,’” Cameron says. “I thought it was just a joke...because it was just so out-of-the blue. And I thought, ‘Well, I’ll call them back just to see.’ And I called them back, and it was the real deal.”

Dr. Cameron cherishes that particular recognition, one she calls a favorite along with an award for her research on early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma, one of the deadliest forms of mouth cancer. She finds the real reward for her job in helping patients to overcome difficult cases, like those that completely transform a patient’s smile/life, and in aiding the community through service.

“For me, it’s about helping others, not about what I’m doing,” Dr. Cameron says. “There’s so much need in the world...I wish I could do even more.”

But Dr. Cameron realizes more is not always possible, noting “we are human beings and not human doings.” With faith at the forefront of her mission, she trusts in God to guide her life and her work, doing all she can through the strength she finds in Him. “If I am having a day where my motivation is less than normal, I simply think about the people I am going to help and all of the positive things that the work I am doing creates from my patients, my team, and my family.”

At the end of the day, she lays out clothes for the next morning, reflecting on her blessings and thinking toward the future with the ultimate goal of uplifting and inspiring others – essentially, making others smile.

“Life is not a dress rehearsal,” she reminds herself. “The billionaire and the beggar have the same 24 hours in the day.

Choose how you spend your time wisely.” VIP

14

january/february 2019

2019

T

he Queen of Hearts is the longest fundraising campaign within The American Heart Association. In 1964, Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Crump, along with their insurance colleagues designed this unique fundraising campaign.

Queen of Hearts candidates learn how to plan, manage and operate their campaigns with objectives and goals in mind. Running a Queen of Hearts Campaign is similar to starting and running

a small business (on a very short term basis). This campaign is vital to the success and future of heart research projects in our region and has raised more than 2.3 million dollars since its inception in 1964. The title, Queen of Hearts, is awarded to the candidate who has raises the most money in her campaign. The Queen of Hearts will be announced and crowned at the Gala on Saturday, March 23rd.

Pa

PATTI BAKER, Owner, Baker’s Jewelry

tt My name is Patti Baker, I am the mother of three daughters; Aubrey, Maria, Sophia. I consider them to be my greatest blessing. I have a wonderful son-in-law: Sam Taylor and I am looking forward to becoming a grandmother this summer. I own and manage Baker’s Jewelry in Kingsport, which is a true family business. It’s hard to believe we are celebrating our 30th year in business. I think family ranks extremely important in our life accomplishments.

16

january/february 2019

What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess? INTEGRITY. I believe every leader should consider integrity to be of utmost importance. People will respect and follow a person’s direction better when they can trust the leader to do what is morally and ethically right, as well as, honest. Leaders often have to make difficult decisions quickly. Nobody is perfect, but it is nice knowing their decision will have an underlying foundation based on the integrity of their character.

As a mentor to us all, what is one piece of advice that you would give to readers? Start your day with a positive thought and a smile. Look at yourself in the mirror and smile, then frown or stare at yourself with an blank expression. Which face do you like better? Which face will the world around you like better? Smiles are contagious and speaking positive words can influence the mood of people around you. Facial expressions matter and so do word choices. Remember, whether you are speaking to a family member, student , co-worker or friend, your smile and nice words might be the best part of someone’s day.

It is simple to share joy and kindness.

What would be your personal motto? Live an accomplished life. A spark of positivity is contagious, pass it on!

As a retail jewelry store owner, I get to see people in many different situations that involve emotions. Selling jewelry is how I make an income; however, the part I love is building lasting relationships with my customers. I strive to let my light shine in a positive way! I want buying jewelry to be fun and exciting.

What do you want to make sure you do before you die?

We don’t have a promise of tomorrow, therefore, I try not to have any strife lingering with anyone, especially family. If something was to happen to me, I want them to know how much I loved them. “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine,” was a favorite song of mine as a child. I want to let my light shine now and forever!

What three words describe you best. Independent: some might say I am independent to a fault. I disagree.

I think it is important to seek knowledge and wisdom about taking care of ourselves. My father instilled that thought in me. I am not afraid of making decisions, because I do my homework first.

Compassionate and trustworthy: I consider myself to be a people person. These are positive traits when building relationships in all aspects of our lives.

“Strive to be your best advocate and realize it is a never ending journey.”

What’s your biggest piece of advice for female entrepreneurs? Strive to be your best advocate and realize it is a never ending journey. Try not to judge yourself based on other people’s accomplishments.

Remember this is your dream and career. Arm yourself with knowledge, wisdom, a great value system, and especially, a huge bag of perseverance.

What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? I believe staying true to yourself and your values will be quite challenging. Making choices that are right for you and your family concerning your health and environment.

I believe it is time to research the products involved in our daily life. Finding choices of clothing, food, household products that are safe for our families and the environment.

How do you push through your worst times? I am a believer in Jesus. I know he loves me like nobody else can. I pray and I look for something to be thankful about. I persevere through the day, trying to focus on “one day at a time”. Big pictures can be overwhelming.

I loved the old movie Pollyanna, she was a young girl that played the “glad game” daily. I believe it works!

How do you want people to remember you? I want to be remembered as a successful business woman who built a business strong enough to pass down through generations of family members. I want to be remembered as a blessed woman that loved life, family, friends, and Jesus. I want to be remembered as a person who was always willing to help others whenever needed.

What’s your superpower? I like to think of my superpower as being a Shape-Shifter. Women have to be quick and adaptable to many different roles in a moments notice. As a Shape-Shifter, I imagine I would always make the change perfectly and at the right moment. Wouldn’t that be nice? vipseenmag.com

17

Tri

TRISHA CONDRA-HARRIS, Owner, Ta’Vie Boutique

sh

a 18

january/february 2019

Tell us a little bit about yourself. I was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. I’m so fortunate to have grown up in a loving and faith filled household which provided me a strong foundation for my life. I’m a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Finance, Insurance & Economics Securities (no…I didn’t actually study fashion merchandising!)

My love for fashion is what drew me into the industry. I’ve spent much of my career in product development, which gave me the opportunity to experience several countries and cultures around the world and to develop some strong friendships along the way. The things I cherish most in my life are my family and friends. I thank God for my loving and supportive husband Tolly. He has always encouraged me to be the best version of myself and has taught me how to be more “present” in life. We have four sons Dallas, Cody, Jake, and Dalton who have filled our life with fun, adventure and at times a little craziness too. While we’re empty-nesters now and they’re off making their own way in this world, we’re a close family that loves spending time together and for that I’m very grateful. While my career has brought me through various states over the years, Tolly and I found our way to Tennessee seven years ago and we feel so happy and blessed to call East Tennessee home.

How and why did you become an entrepreneur? Was it something you always intended for yourself? I have always had a desire to be an entrepreneur.

My parents were consistent supporters of me and my brothers and always told us that we could be anything we wanted to be with commitment, hard work, fearlessness, and most importantly; Faith. They were instrumental in my decision to pursue that dream. So, at 21 years old I took my first shot at Entrepreneurship!

I opened my first boutique, a Benetton store, in Columbia, SC. Of course, many years and wonderful experiences have passed since that initial adventure. I’ve learned a lot over that time, both learnings of what to do and what not to do and I’m excited to still learn and grow every day. I feel blessed to own a business I love in an industry I’m passionate about and I’m thrilled to have an opportunity to make a positive impact on fashion in Tennessee.

Define a great leader. What are some traits you think great leaders possess? A great leader to me is someone who can lead and inspire others because of the respect they’ve earned through their actions. Someone who always acts with integrity. They’re a skilled communicator and effective listener, they lead with passion while encouraging and empowering others to take chances and be their best. Servant Leadership is great leadership!

What’s a typical day like for you? The fun and exciting thing about being an entrepreneur in the fashion industry is that my “day-to-day” is ever changing. I have many days at the store filled with customer interaction (my favorite and so incredibly important), days at my office head down in the numbers and, of course, those days in the various apparel markets making selections for the upcoming seasons. It’s the unexpected, the diversity in my daily routine that drives my excitement and love for what I do.

“A great leader to me is someone who can lead and inspire others because of the respect they’ve earned through their actions.”

Name three words that describe you? I would describe myself as: PASSIONATE: I’m truly excited about my life, my career and what the future holds. DRIVEN: I have always been a goal setter, a “push myself to the limits” kind of person in order to accomplish what I put in front on me. CARING: The people in my life are what matters most, to be loving and kind is what we’re called to do…”to care”.

What would be your personal motto? Be who YOU are…you’re the only YOU there is!

I named my company Ta’Vie, which means “Your Life”. I fundamentally believe that God made us each who we are and we are all perfect just that way. When it comes to my business, our motto is “It’s Your Life, Your Style”…express yourself and wear styles that make YOU feel confident.

How do you want people to remember you? I’d like to be remembered by my faith as a guiding force in my life, as a loving and devoted wife, a strong and courageous mom (I didn’t mention earlier that I was a single mom for many years then gained three additional sons by marriage, who I love like they’re my own), and a caring and supportive friend.

What are the most important decisions you make as a leader of your organization? I would definitely say the most important decision is building the Ta’Vie team. Surrounding myself with amazing and creative women who share my passion for the business, who have the desire and drive to get things done and who want to make a difference in women’s lives is the foundation of our company.

What keeps you awake at night? Thoughts of the kids and what’s happening in their lives…are they ok? Happy? Did I do my best for them? My to-do list for tomorrow/the week, visions of the stores and remerchandising them to build excitement…truth be told, I love interior decorating too!

What’s your superpower, or what’s your spirit animal? My superpower is my Faith. If God is for us, who can be against us.

My spirit animal is the Bear. The Bear’s primary meaning is to exhibit strength and take a stance against adversity; those who take action and lead. Interesting story…when I was in high school, I won the SC Gold Key Art award for a pastel rendering of a Bear…I had no clue at the time that it was to be my spirit animal! vipseenmag.com

19

S u sa

DR. SUSAN CREECH, Owner & Dentist, Colonial Heights Dental Group

n

I grew up in Kingsport and my first job at 16 years of age was working in the dental office I now own. I went to Knoxville for college and then Memphis for dental school. After graduation, my husband and I lived and worked in Memphis, but East Tennessee kept calling me home. We moved back to the area in 2007. In addition to owning a dental practice, I have three children (ages 4, 6, and 9).

20

january/february 2019

What is your spirit animal? My Spirit animal would have to be the hummingbird- it’s always in motion and never seems to stop.

How much importance do you place on volunteerism and giving back to your community? I think it is very important, both locally and globally. My office just had our sixth annual Book Drive. Over those years, we have provided thousands of books to local schools as well as the Boys & Girls Club. My staff and I have participated in the Free Dental Day in Pulaski, TN where we provided dentistry to those in need, as well as volunteering with Friends in Need and Miles for Smiles. Globally, I have participated in mission trips to Ecuador and China in order to bring dental care to orphans and the poor. I think that giving back is the best way to appreciate all the things we take for granted every day.

What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace? The advice I would give to women who want to succeed in the workplace is to set your standards very early on and whatever it is you want to do, have every decision you make meet those standards. Never compromise your standards.

What three tools (apps, books, podcasts, etc.) would you recommend to anyone trying to start her own business?

Three tools I would recommend to anyone starting a business would be: 1) a written draft of your vision for your business. If you do not know what you want your business to look like in one year, three years, five years, then you will waste a lot of time trying things that do not work and do not bring you success.

2) a great website- this is where 90% of your clientele will learn about you, who you are, what you can provide,etc. Your website is your first impression so make sure it is top notch.

“I can change someone’s smile and change, not only how other people see them, but how they see themselves.”

3) Your trade’s best technology, For me, dentistry is changing quickly with new advancements and technology hitting the market at a fast pace. You cannot succeed if you are afraid to change and having the latest and best technology will give you a competitive edge over those who are resistant to change.

What are your success habits? I believe my #1 habit for success is not being afraid to fail or to make changes.

What’s your biggest piece of advice for female entrepreneurs? Biggest piece of advice for female entrepreneurs: Make sure you have a good support system so you can really go after your goals. In order to achieve a work-life balance, there are a few important things that need to be right: Faith, Family, and Passion for what you do.

What’s a goal you have for yourself that you want to accomplish in the next year? I am currently working towards an Accreditation in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. It is a rigorous process that can take up to 5 years to accomplish. My goal for this year is to pass my written exam and then work hard to submit several dental cases to a board of examiners shortly thereafter.

How do you want people to remember you? As a dentist, I want to be remembered as someone who enjoyed building relationships with her patients and providing great care. As a wife and mother, I want to be remembered as being relentless in being there for them. Finally, and most importantly, I would like to be remembered as a Godly woman who loved her relationship with Christ.

Tell us about a project or accomplishment that you consider being the most significant in your career. The most rewarding part of dentistry is when I have a patient who has had a negative self image for years because of the condition of their teeth. Through cosmetic dentistry, I can change someone’s smile and change, not only how other people see them, but how they see themselves. This is truly the accomplishment I find to be most significant in my career- changing someone’s life by changing their smile. vipseenmag.com

21

A le y

ASHLEY GRINDSTAFF,

sh

Chief Operating Office (COO), Grindstaff Automotive Group

I am a 35 year old multitasking woman. My first and foremost essential role is being a mother. My other role is co-running the only locally owned and operating car dealerships in the Tri-Cities that does not have share-holders. In my spare time, I love to volunteer and give back to my community.

How much importance do you place on volunteerism and giving back to your community? I take philanthropy very seriously. As a young girl, I started a volunteer program at the Asbury Center in Kingsport. Unfortunately, I lost both sets of my grandparents at a very young age. My father was employed at the facility and encouraged me to volunteer during the summer to help the activities director. In just a short time, I learned how lonely, depressed, and unwanted some of the residents felt. I realized in that moment that I could make a difference in someone’s life. It immediately gave me a passion to make them feel special. I would put together social parties, painting parties, bring in singers, read to them, paint the ladies nails, and, my favorite moment of all, was to hear their stories. I realized that many never saw their families but once a year and it truly broke my heart. I then recruited more young people to come in to volunteer and the program took off. At 12 years old, my passion to help others helped shape the person I am today.

What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you? I think the biggest challenge for women in the future is to understand that women cannot work like a man, just like a man can not work like a woman. Life is a balance, for me personally, it is a challenge every day to balance all the hats I wear. I realize that women think they have to choose between a career or motherhood. The working woman today is far different than the working woman and mother 30 years ago. Technology has advanced everything in our daily life, which makes the balancing act of motherhood and business a little easier to manage.

What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace? I have been blessed to work with young women over the years; encouraging them to be their authentic self. We live in such a critical society that young women feel they have to change who they are to fit in the workplace or sacrifice their principles just to have a job. Be the smart woman you are, show your boss the skills you’ve developed, it’s ok to talk about your accomplishments in an interview and always speak up no matter the situation. There is no one

22

january/february 2019

looking out for your best interest other than yourself – read more, learn more, cross train within your department.

“Whether it is with a friend, customer, co-worker, or charity, I always try my best to make a difference.”

What’s a typical day like for you? For me, everyday is a little different, but my typical schedule consists of lots of time in my car – my mobile office. I take my twins to school every day, work out for an hour, and go home to change clothes.

Sometimes you may find me wearing work out clothes if I have no time to change.

I get lots of texts from my husband asking me about advertising, reminding me to call or go by one of the stores, letting me know that a customer needs my attention, all while checking off my own to-do list. My office is in Elizabethton so I am back and forth from that property to our other dealership in Johnson City.

I love to meet and spend time with our customers. I may have a long to do list but the most important aspect of my work is to know our customers. My husband and I are always there for them. We truly appreciate their business and continued support.

What three words best describe you? Compassionate, Driven, Trustworthy.

How do you achieve work-life balance? I am still learning balance. I have a hard time saying “no.” I am a giving person in many ways, but most importantly, my time. When it comes to helping, I am always first to say, “What can I do?” Whether it is with a friend, customer, co-worker, or charity, I always try my best to make a difference.

What are the most important decisions you make as a leader of your organization? Decision-making in our business is challenging a lot of critical decisions are made daily, but the one thing that always stays in the back of our minds is “how will it affect our employees or our customers.”

Who has been the kindest to you in your life? Sherrie Bacon, by far, has been the kindest person in my life. She has the biggest heart that is over flowing with love, support, and compassion. I look up to her in so many ways. She has been a small business owner for many years and has taught me to be loving even when others may have been unkind to me. Although I have grown to have thicker skin, it still hurts when others make false judgments about me. Her Godly words, constant prayers, and friendship is one that I treasure. Everyone needs Sherrie Bacon in their life! Her laugh is infectious and she is the Best Lash Lady in the TriCities! I love My MommaSher!!

What are your success habits? The success our business has achieved is because of our family of employees. My husband and I make ourselves very available at all times, but the continued hard work and dedication from our kind, trusting, and dedicated employees is why customers come back to buy or service their vehicles. I can’t thank our Grindstaff Family enough for all their years with us.

What is your spirit animal? My spirit animal would be a chameleon. I wear so many different hats that I can blend in to any environment whether its a business function, being a school mother, being a philanthropist, being a female in business, and just being down to earth Ashley. vipseenmag.com

23

o J

JONI HAYNES, Owner, Moon Tuxedo

ni

Tell us a little bit about yourself. I was born in Kingsport, Tennessee, and was in a military family that moved around a lot. We made our way back to the area for my high school years and I graduated in the top ten of my class with Honors from Sullivan North High School in 1997. I then attended ETSU and graduated in 2002, cum laude with a bachelor’s degree, and received the Faculty Award. I married Brian Haynes in 2003 and gave birth to Corbin Haynes in 2004. When Brian was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer in 2014, I started homeschooling Corbin and taking care of Brian, while continuing to run Moon Tuxedo, the business we purchased together in 2010.

Define a great leader. What are some traits you think great leaders possess? There is a notable difference between a great leader and a boss. A great leader can work with their employees, not just delegate orders. A great leader needs to understand the demands of the job, and how to teach by example and experience. She puts herself on the work schedule and continues to be an active participant in the daily tasks. A great leader listens to both her employees and her customers and is willing to make the necessary changes to be successful.

Tell me about how you got into your line of work. In 1999, one of my best friends was working at Moon Tuxedo. She suggested that I work temporarily during prom season. What started as a temporary

24

january/february 2019

Sometimes we don’t know how strong we are until we are tested in one way or another. Joni Haynes of Moon Tuxedo in Kingsport, Tennessee, has needed to call upon her deep well of strength a great deal in the past five years as she supported her husband and business partner, Brian Haynes, through his cancer journey.

Unfortunately, Brian passed away in January of 2019, after enduring constant chemotherapy treatments for Stage 4 colon cancer.

position gradually became a permanent position, and I have been a “Moon Girl” off and on for 20 years.

How do you achieve work-life balance? Prioritize, organize, plan, and follow through. Try to eliminate the insignificant details, and get enough sleep. Take care of the caretaker. Create a schedule so that you end each day knowing you did your best, especially for your family.

Name three words that describe you. Hilarious.

Dependable. Patient.

Do you have any hobbies or special interests? In addition to my love of formalwear and Moon Tuxedo, I am a cake decorator. Prior to purchasing Moon Tuxedo, I had a cake decorating side business called “Cakes by Joni”. I truly enjoy decorating cakes, baking, and making candy. In addition, as a young child I liked to write poems, short stories, and did journaling. I have continued writing and have even started a few novels that I never seem to finish. Perhaps one day I will write something that could be worthy of publishing!

How do you push through your worst times? I listen to my inner voice and follow my instincts. God will tell you how to survive if you listen carefully. I pray, I trust God will get me through, and I eat the damn cookie, just not the whole box.

What are the most important decisions you make as a leader of your organization. As a formalwear store, my business is seasonal, so I budget accordingly. I make sure to hire employees who will care about the tuxedo being rented as much as the customer does. I strive to create a professional and modern image through advertisements, wedding show booth décor, and how the store’s showroom is displayed. Also, I work carefully to choose reliable companies to supply my tuxedo orders.

“Create a schedule so that you end each day knowing you did your best, especially for your family.”

As a mentor to us all, what is one piece of advice you would give to readers? It can always get worse, but it can also get better.

Time can’t be replenished, so cherish each second of everyday, even if the right now is terrible. Don’t forget to say, “I love you,” and just breathe.

What’s your superpower?My superpower is being able to maintain my sensibilities with humor and responsiveness, even during the most chaotic and stressful situations.

vipseenmag.com

25

Ash

ASHLEY HONAKER, COO, Millennium Auto Collision Repairs

ley Millennium Auto Collision Repairs in Kingsport, Tennessee, is truly a family affair. Owners Cassie and Charles Honaker employ their son Chaz, his wife Ashley, and Cassie’s father Bill also works for the company full time. Millennium was started by Cassie and Charles in 2005 and has gradually built to become one of the busiest auto collision repair shops in the area.

26

january/february 2019

C

as C

CASSIE HONAKER, Owner, Millennium Auto Collision Repairs

“Although we may meet by accident, we will be friends for life!”

Tell us a little bit about yourself. CASSIE HONAKER – Ashley is my daughter-in-law and married to my stepson Chaz Honaker. When they were in 6th grade, my husband Charles and I were chaperones for a school field trip and I was immediately impressed with Ashley. Even at age 12, she was calm, patient, and responsible. I came home from that trip saying to Charles that I had just met our future daughter-inlaw. ASHLEY HONAKER – A few years after that field trip, Chaz and I started dating and were married right after high school. Although I was busy with two babies, I started working at Millennium Auto Collision Repairs part-time and started full-time a few years after that.

How much importance do you place on volunteerism and giving back to your community? CH – We are getting ready to give away our third car in the past five years to a deserving student. I serve on the board of directors for H.O.P.E. (Help our Potential Evolve) Tri-Cities, an organization which seeks to educate local youth with life skills and ultimately help create future business and community leaders. Most recently, we have completely restored a car for a young lady in the H.O.P.E. program who has grown up with a very challenging home life. This car will help her get back and forth to college, where she a full-time student at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

How and why did you become an entrepreneur? Was it something you always intended for yourself? CH – When I graduated from ETSU in 2002, I became a case manager for Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

I did that for about three years and then went to work for a company called Easy Seat. I will never forget the first question the interviewer asked me – to spell his name. It had been on all the interview paperwork, but he was interested to see if I had taken note of his long and unusual name (Chris Haythorne-Thwaite). He later told me that my ability to spell his name correctly and without hesitation was one of the reasons he hired me, because of my attention to detail.

At Easy Seat, I was working on computerizing their catalog ordering system and training others, but within a short space of time, Chris had started to encourage me to pursue our dream of owning our own business in the car repair industry. He actually provided half of the seed money that Charles and I used to start Millennium. We developed relationships with local dealerships by fixing cars for free so they could see the work we could do. In 2012, we received one of our big breaks by becoming a Geico insurance company direct repair facility and have been continuously growing our business each year.

sie

What was your dream job as a kid and why? AH – I would still like to be able to spend more time building furniture, and it’s something I have always done as a hobby. CH – Growing up I wanted to be a teacher, and entered ETSU as an education major (Honaker ultimately earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work). My two major passions have always been kids and cars.

Tell me about how you got into your line of work. CH – I have been told a story about me working with my dad, who managed and then owned his own body shop while I was growing up.

I was around three years old, and my Dad had put me in the bed of a truck he was working on prepping for paint. When he would finish sanding an area on the side of the truck, he would hand me the dulled sandpaper sheet and I would lean over the side to ‘finish’ the job. I worked with my dad after school from elementary school through high school doing detail work, and sanding and prepping cars for paint. By age 15, I was handling accounts and learning the management side of the business. AH – I started out the same way as Cassie, working at Millennium as a teenager doing detailing and paint prep. Eventually, I started answering phones and assisting with ordering and invoicing.

Now I handle customer service, act as an insurance company liaison, and manage the front office.

What have you learned about leadership, entrepreneurship and mentoring others? CH – We have a unique situation where we work side by side with several family members every day. Despite this fact, we also make an effort to spend special time together outside the workplace. It can be hard for me to act like a boss one minute and mother-in-law the next, but we manage to navigate this environment with lots of love for one another. AH – I love working in the same place with my husband. I know at any point in the day I can go in the back and get a hug if I need one. We hope that one day our children will want to continue in the family business.

What’s your superpower, or what’s your spirit animal? CH – I have a pretty big heart, and I seem to have an ability to automatically love everyone I meet. Our company motto is, “Although we may meet by accident, we will be friends for life!” AH – I try to make everyone around me happier, and I love being able to comfort people, especially those that are dealing with the trauma of a recent car accident. vipseenmag.com

27

Lo

LORI PAYNE, Financial Controller, GSM Filtration Inc. & Chairwoman, Kingsport Chamber Foundation Board of Directors

ri Lori Payne is a native of Southwest Virginia. She is the mother to her beautiful daughter, Austin Payne. She is the fiancé of Rob Arnold with AEP. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in accounting from East Tennessee State University.

Lori is the Financial Controller for GSM Filteration as of March 11, 2019, a manufacturer of woven and spiral link plastic belts for industrial and commercial dewatering applications and machines. She has over 20 years of service in finance, budgets, accounting, taxes and stategic planning. Lori has led several accounting and finance initiatives that have led to positive outcomes for various companies in Kingsport area.

28

january/february 2019

Tell us a little bit about yourself. Before manufacturing, Lori served as Director of Finance for Ballad Health. She led a team of financial analysts to drive positive impacts for each service line provided within hospital facilities. Lori supported the CFO & CEO of each facility with strategic planning, business plans, and financial analysis.

Lori has volunteered herself with several nonprofits in our area.

She has been Chairman of the Audit Committee and Chairman of the Finance Committee for United Way of Greater Kingsport.

She is a past member on the board for Kingsport Community Foundation. Her love for our community started during her service with Fun Fest, then in 2012 she served as the Chairman of Fun Fest Executive Committee. She has been past Chair of Membership and Visit Kingsport for the Chamber. Lori currently serves on the Kingsport Façade and Redevelopment Committee for the City of Kingsport. She also currently serves as Chairman of the Kingsport Foundation Board of Directors working to bring a positive impact to our community.

How much importance do you place on volunteerism and giving back to your community? Volunteering and giving back to my community is extremely important to me as an individual and as a business professional. It is a way for me to demonstrate my love for this community and region. As an individual it is important to give of one’s time, talents, and treasures. I do believe you cannot out give God and the benefits you reap when giving from the heart. Through networking within the community I have made so many business connections and friendships that will last a lifetime.

How and why did you become an entrepreneur? Was it something you always intended for yourself? I am living my passion. It has always been my drive to become a strong leading business woman. My desire has always been to create, drive, and conquer success for an empire. Overseeing a risk into reality

“A great leader is one that can empower those around them to make decisions in order to reach their own desires for success.” creates endless possibilities. These possibilities are dreams that become opportunities. Opportunities then develop strategies for success. I have always been driven with a dream for success.

When did you consider yourself a success? I feel success is defined by a desire to achieve for every individual. My desire for success is a growing and moving target. Growth and opportunities drive me to aim towards that target of success. As long as it is moving forward, I feel I am succeeding and driving a pathway of success. I always feel the need to work harder to bring measurable value. I have always been someone who turns opportunities into success. My mind will never let me quit making dreams happen.

Define a great leader. What are some traits you think great leaders possess? A great leader is one that can empower those around them to make decisions in order to reach their own desires for success. Everyone has faced obstacles while trying to succeed; a great leader overcomes these obstacles. It takes all fruits of the spirit with strength and determination to accomplish a behavior for leadership. John Maxwell’s quote “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” has been my adopted motto for leading others. One with innovation to bring a sum of small efforts collectively together can result in a big impact.

What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace? Every young woman has a dream. To every young woman I would say be loving and kind, but also fierce. Always treat others the way you want to be treated… no matter what. Following a dream takes being a woman of substance and determination to succeed.

Every day I make a commitment to encourage and build up anyone that crosses my path. All in the hope that I could be the game changer for someone that day. If you encounter a hug or two from me along the way, it’s just me giving grace and being your encourager for that day.

vipseenmag.com

29

K.

K.C. ST. LOUIS, Owner, Abingdon Olive Oil Co.

C. 30

january/february 2019

I grew up in Upper Arlington, a suburb of Columbus, Ohio. I was raised by 2 incredible parents. Mom was a portrait painter and sporting artist. She taught me to find the beauty in everybody no matter their walk in life. Dad is a Rotarian and instilled the importance of giving back to the community. He helped start Polio Plus which many know has all but eradicated polio on the planet. (1% to go!) I have 5 awesome brothers and 1 dear sister. First Community Church, a forward thinking, multi-denominational church, paved the way for my interest in healing energies. God has blessed me with 2 beautiful daughters, 2 fine sons-in-law and 6 grandchildren.

How do you want people to remember you? As a kind and caring individual.

Describe one of your biggest failures. What lessons did you learn, and how did it contribute to a greater success? It’s not a failure if you learn from it, right?! Every lesson learned contributes to greater success. I tell my staff all the time, “There are no mistakes just opportunities for improvement. Don’t get down on yourself. Learn from each experience. Good or bad, it’s all good.”

When did you consider yourself a success? The first time a friend told me I’d made a positive impact on their life.

Define a great leader. What are some traits you think great leaders possess? A great leader helps others to find their greatness even though it usually means losing them to that greatness.

What do you see as your place or purpose in life? How did you come to that conclusion? I am a healer. My mother tells the story of when I was a little girl and we were sitting in the front row of church. During his sermon, the minister came out of his pulpit and stood in front of me saying, “Jesus says, these things I do, you can do and greater.” I turned to my Mom and said, “I want to know how you touch people and heal them.”

Mom and I have spent our lives studying Holy Spirit and the vibrational movement of energies.

I find it fascinating I’ve stumbled into a business that sells a product that heals by its mere consumption. Literally, customers are finding such relief from gout, arthritis, diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol issues, just to name a few.

How cool is that?! But the most thrilling thing of all for me is that people come into my shops for the love, baby! Each sale comes with a heartfelt hug of appreciation and I can’t tell you the number of letters and calls I’ve received from those who needed just that on that day!

Tell us about how you got into your line of work. Sometimes the entrepreneurial world finds you. In my case, my children were grown and moving on in their lives. A friend took me into an oil and vinegar store; I came home with six bottles. My family and I had so much fun playing with the different flavors and sharing them with friends. I also noticed the pain from arthritis in

my hands and knees was subsiding. The store was 3 1/2 hours from our home and every time I went to replenish, my friends would say, “While you’re there, get me this. Get me that.” When I came home with 10 orders and 18 bags, I thought “This would be a great business!” I never expected it to turn into a business that would bring such great health benefits to so many and bring me such joy in the sharing of information.

“My motto would be ... ‘make me an instrument of Thy perfect peace.’”

Tell us about a project or accomplishment that you consider being the most significant in your career. I sat 15 years on the National Advisory Board of the Adam Walsh Children’s Fund that became The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

I remember Amber Hagerman’s dad coming for help. At that time, we knew the first 20 minutes of a child missing were the most important for finding that child. We needed a way to get the word out and get it out quickly. This was before cell phones were the mainstream and digital highway signs existed.

We were able to connect with the U.S. Department of Transportation that was working on a national highway information system to let people know of accidents on the road ahead. The rest is history.

What a feeling of accomplishment when I was sitting in Main Street Pizza with friends a few years ago and everybody’s cell phone buzzed in unison. Everybody looked at their phone and noticed the AMBER Alert. So cool!! Of course, it took a village, but I know I was a part of that success. I view this as one of my greatest contributions.

What would be your personal motto?

Make me an instrument of Thy perfect peace.

What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess? Leader should know that it takes a village. Acknowledge others with gratitude for the roll they play in your success.

As a mentor to us all, what is one piece of advice that you would give to readers? Allow enough time to process before making decisions.

What’s your superpower, or what’s your spirit animal? My superpower is my confidence in me and my confidence in God. Most especially, my confidence in our connection! vipseenmag.com

31

Pink The

Ladies OUR VALUES

Our Pink Ladies values reflect who we are and what we stand for.

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT We develop relationships that make a positive difference in the lives of children and animals in the communities that we serve.

TEAMWORK We work together to meet the needs of children and animal organizations in our communities‌ no matter how big or small.

GOOD CITIZENSHIP We are good citizens in the communities in which we live and work.

INTEGRITY We uphold the highest standards of integrity in all of our actions.

PAMELA RAGAN

President/Founder, Pink Ladies Friendship Automotive since 2002

THE PINK LADIES

RESPECT We value and respect our Pink Ladies. We encourage their development by recognizing their performance.

The same respect is shared with the members of the organizations that we volunteer with.

A WILL TO SUCCEED We all share the will to succeed by leaving the world in better shape than how we found it. We are all winners. It is a part of our culture.

PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY We are personally accountable for delivering on our commitments.

COMPASSION The Pink Ladies believe that our compassion for children and animals should be shared. It takes a village to help a community. Awareness is the first step in making a difference.

SERVANT LEADERSHIP We believe that Servant Leadership is the best form of leadership. The higher you are in an organization, the more you are expected to serve others. This vision was shared with us while working at Friendship and we will continue to practice Servant Leadership while serving as Pink Ladies.

32

january/february 2019

PAMELA RAGAN

CASSIDY DIRICKSON

Pamela Ragan is President/Founder of the Pink Ladies and has been with Friendship Automotive since 2002. She is married to Bobby and they have two children: Meygan and Noah.

Cassidy loves the community and sisterhood she gets by being a part of the Pink Ladies, it simply makes her heart full of with joy! She’s married to Dustin.

Pamela founded the Pink Ladies because she saw the need for volunteers in the community. She stands by her motto, “Together we can and will make a difference. We must help those who are less fortunate.”

JESSICA BENTLEY

ALYCIA FAULK Alycia’s favorite thing about being a Pink Lady is the social interaction with the community. She’s engaged to James Mckeehan. Her hobby is planning trips to Disney with her daughter Maddison.

Jessica is a daughter, sister, and Mommy to a six-year old little lady! They love their animals Sugar, Pumpkin Waffles, and Clover. As a Pink Lady, Jessica loves helping out in the community and working together with women that are more like family and friends than co-workers!

JESSICA CANTER Jessica is a musician and an artist. Her household consists of her and her little dog, Effy.

and Jen, and their granddaughter Laken. She feels that Pink Ladies is a great vehicle to getting out in the community and helping organizations.

She explains, “they get to know us and we get to know them – all while we are helping.”

RACHEL BAYS Rachel believes that by being a Pink Lady, she’s helping the community by volunteering to help others less fortunate in the community.

Rachel enjoys reading and attending motorcycle races with her boyfriend Chad, daughter Elliott, and stepdaughters Ella and Amelia.

“We’re blessed and we should do our best to share that as much as possible!”

ANGELA WILLIAMS Angela’s favorite thing about being a Pink Lady is being part of a great group of ladies that, not only support their local community, but also support one another.

Angela’s superpower is her brain’s ability to solve tall problems in a single bound... well, most of the time.

ASHLEY STONE Ashley has a five-year old, Mikayla, who is full of life! Ashley recently became engaged to Michael Barker. She likes being a Pink Lady because she loves helping the children in the community.

BRIANNA SINK Brianna says, “It really makes me proud to call myself a Pink Lady. They do so much stuff for the community always giving back in any way that’s possible!” Hiking is her favorite way to spend a beautiful day and being a part of the Pink Ladies gives her so many opportunities to help out the local animal shelters.

BRITTINEE SLAGLE Brittinee is engaged to another Friendship member Gabriel Hawley and she’s a dog mom to Oakley, a mini Aussie.

Her favorite thing about being a Pink Lady has to be all the wonderful opportunities she gets to give back to others.

Being a Pink Lady means being able to participate in fun and beneficial activities as a group.

KATHY GRILLS Kathy has been married to Butch for 19 years. They have four dogs and two cats, in addition to a combined human family of three children and eight grandchildren.

Her favorite thing about being a Pink Lady is seeing the difference a small group of powerful women can make in the lives of others!

LARISSA DAVIS Larissa feels like her super power is having a big heart. She cares about so many things and wishes she had the ability to do more to help! Being a part of the Pink Ladies is the ability to bring a group of women together for a greater purpose! Larissa is married and has two step-daughters: Harlee and Taylin

LAURA KEISER Laura feels that her superpower is being a mom. There is nothing more rewarding than raising her two daughters, Morgan and Natalie. Her favorite thing about the Pink Ladies is the friendship she has gained from other women in the industry.

RHONDA HARLESS Rhonda loves spending time with her family – husband Ken, two children, Kenny

AMANDA ENGLISH Amanda says that she is focused, determined and caring, which comes in handy being a member of the Pink Ladies. Amanda says, “Being able to volunteer in our community and help the Boys & Girls Club and the local animal shelters is an amazing feeling!”

TIFFANY BOROWSKI Tiffany enjoys being a part of the Pink Ladies because it helps her stay connected with other Friendship team members and the community. “It always warms my heart to see the joy of what just one kind act can do for others,” she states. Tiffany is also active with other organizations in Bristol.

ALANA WILSON Alana believes the best part of being with the Pink Ladies is meeting and having an impact on so many different people, both within the Friendship Family and in the community. “Giving anyone the opportunity to participate in something or accomplish a goal they never thought they would is a feeling I’m not sure I can put into words! Little things are taken for granted so often and leveling the playing field for someone isn’t something to be taken lightly. We’re blessed and we should do our best to share that as much as possible!” she explains of her passion for being a Pink Lady. vipseenmag.com

33

THE IMPACT OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUES AROUND THE REGION BRISTOL The Junior League of Bristol (JLB) TN/VA is organization of women with one common goal, making a difference in our community. The organization is comprised of dedicated women who are committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of woman and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. In 2018, JLB celebrated its 70th Birthday!

Annually, members are committed to several community projects surrounding our two focus areas: hunger and literacy. Since food insecurity in the region is a large issue, the Junior League of Bristol partners with Kingsport and Johnson City Leagues on a food drive.

Area Junior Leagues partner with Food City, Second Harvest Food Bank and Feeding America Southwest Virginia to advocate, raise funds, and request food on behalf of those in need. The Junior League of Bristol also prepares Thanksgiving Baskets for families in need. These baskets include all key items for a Thanksgiving Feast including a turkey! Key partnerships with Tennessee High School and the Bristol Virginia School System help to locate the families in need and gift them a holiday meal.

Our members are also committed to bringing literacy to the forefront of priority in Bristol, TN/VA. Through the Read Across America program, members volunteer at area school systems to read to children on Dr. Seuss’s birthday. This community project is not only a joy for the school children but something members look forward to doing all year. For several years, JLB has partnered

with the national program, Little Free Library. JLB now has eleven Little Free Libraries that are kept stocked with books for people of all ages. Locations include: Sugar Hollow Park, Wellmont Hospice House, Girls Inc., Healing Hands Health Center, Slater Community Center, the YMCA, Anderson Elementary School, Haynesfield Elementary School, Fairmont Elementary School, Holston View Elementary School and Avoca Elementary School.

In an effort to bring awareness to the difficulties facing many veterans, the Junior League of Bristol provisional class, plans to show a screening of the documentary “Almost Sunrise”. The documentary follows two veterans acclimating back into civilian life from deployments. The screening will be held in the Spring of 2019, with the hopes of sharing the struggles of veterans with mental health issues.

The Junior League of Bristol TN/VA aspires to be Bristol’s premier women’s volunteer organization. They are committed to implementing projects and partnerships that impact women and children in the community.

34

january/february 2019

VIPSEEN

nonprofit JOHNSON CITY The Junior League of Johnson City’s (JLJC) impact on the community is long standing, dating back to 1947. A committed group of women joined together to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

We have helped establish major community entities such as Watauga Mental Health (now Frontier Health), HandsOn! Museum and the Children’s Advocacy Center. Recently, we have donated $45,000 in the last three years to the Prescription Drug Abuse and Misuse Working Group. This group of cross disciplinary professionals are instrumental in studying Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and helping to combat the opioid crisis our nation is facing.

In the 2017-2018 League year we adopted a new impact statement that drives our initiatives throughout the community.

“The Junior League of Johnson City is raising awareness, gathering information, and educating women and the community regarding women and children’s health and well-being.” The Junior League of Johnson City is passionate about serving this need in community. In the 2018 - 2019 League year we focused on building relationships with our existing partners and new ones. We continue to work with the youth & adolescent wing at Woodridge Hospital and reignited a relationship with Girls, Inc.

Through the JLJC’s two major fundraisers- Touch-a-Truck and Cocktails we are able to accomplish small projects throughout the year, train our volunteers effectively, and aim to assist in areas we identify through research and community input.

KINGSPORT For more than half a century, women involved with the Junior League of Kingsport (JLK) have served as a force for improving the community through effective action and the leadership of trained volunteers. Officially incorporated in 1958 to promote voluntarism and develop the potential of women leaders, Kingsport’s chapter is proud to be the first affiliate of the Association of Junior Leagues to establish in the Tri-Cities. Today, the “women of impact” legacy continues through annual partnerships with agencies like Children Exceeding Expectations, Hope House and Holston Home for Children.

In addition, Junior League of Kingsport is proud to offer mini-grants for projects that empower women and care for children each year.

In 2019, Kingsport H.O.P.E. (Help Our Potential Evolve), the YWCA of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, Girls Incorporated, the Literacy Council of Kingsport and Second Harvest of Northeast Tennessee benefited from JLK grants.

Education and empowerment of women and youth is at the core of Junior League Kingsport’s mission. As such, JLK invests in future leaders by offering an annual scholarship for a Kingsport area female high school graduate who exhibits a commitment to voluntarism and leadership. JLK often assists with drives for supplies that benefit children in city schools as well. These drives have included everything from under garments and personal hygiene items to winter scarves and school supplies. This spring, JLK will assemble Teachers’ Toolboxes to help ensure that classrooms and students have the provisions needed for academic success.

Junior League Kingsport is able to give back in all of these ways due in part to tremendous fundraising efforts coordinated by both Active and Sustaining members. In 2017, JLK was proud to host a Holiday Tour of Historic Homes and publish a children’s book entitled “Experiencing 100” in conjunction with Kingsport’s Centennial Celebration. In 2018,

the League hosted a fun, new holiday event. Jingle and Gingerbread welcomed families to decorate freshly baked gingerbread houses while enjoying holiday music and treats, having a photo snapped with Santa or shopping for crafts with local artisans. The excitement for this new event became even greater when the young ladies of Girls Incorporated were given the opportunity to enjoy a special party featuring Santa and more than 100 gingerbread houses as a result of funds raised. These are just a few of the ways that Junior League is collaborating, inspiring and mobilizing women leaders to impact the community in Kingsport, Tennessee. vipseenmag.com

35

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

The REAL Madness MARCH MADNESS. I suppose to most people, the term, “March Madness” implies filling out brackets and watching college basketball until your eyes cross. Basketball is okay, but to me, March Madness means something completely different.

What I’m talking about is the REAL March Madness. It’s the madness that happens in my closet every stinking spring.

I’m talking about the madness of trying on last years’ summer clothes only to realize that they have gotten smaller over the winter.

I’m not sure how it happens, but every year, between the months of November and March, my spring and summer clothes shrink dramatically. I’m not talking about the clothes becoming a little bit tight. It’s as if someone comes into my closet and replaces last year’s adult-sized clothes with children’s clothes. I know I’m not the only person to experience this phenomenon, because I Googled it, and there are millions of articles about how other people end up not fitting into their clothes from the previous year.

Most of the articles suggest that it isn’t actually the clothes that shrink, but our bodies that have expanded. I’d love to reject that notion, but being the common sense type of girl that I am, I simply can’t rule out winter weight gain as the culprit. I’m not saying definitively that my winter eating and (not) exercising habits have an effect on the fit of my clothes, but all things considered, I suppose I could be at fault in some very small way.

who gets clinically depressed after Christmas when eggnog is no longer available in stores. Heck, my family and I look forward to snow, not because of snow days, but because we’ll be able to make snow cream. I suppose the fact that my favorite winter snack is nachos, cheese, and jalapeños probably doesn’t exactly help matters. Also, the fact that my favorite winter activities involve Netflix and food might have something to do with my clothes being too small.

But, really, who can know for sure that winter eating is why my clothes are too small?

Regardless of what caused my clothes to shrink, I am now faced with an extremely important decision. Do I: a) Stop the Cheeto diet that I’ve been following and start the Keto diet that everyone is talking about? or, (b) Buy bigger clothes again this year.

I would love to say it’s a tough decision for me, but the truth is, I love food AND I love new clothes, so I feel like the decision has already been made. Keto-Schmeto! I’m going to stick with the Cheeto diet and buy brand new clothes.

See you guys at the mall!!!

Maybe the problem is that winter makes me want to hibernate while eating all the things. I may or may not be the only person

ongrats!

C 2018 Woman-Owned Winner You could be the next KOSBE Power Woman. Apply today at kosbeawards.org.

Beth xoxoxo

BRISTOL CRISIS CENTER

Seeking Help to Help Others STORY BY LEXIE LITTLE

“There is hope.

You are not alone.”

The reminder pops up immediately on the Bristol Crisis Center webpage, reminding victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and mental distress that help remains just a click away.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 in 3 women and nearly 1 in 6 men experience some form of physical sexual violence victimization in their lifetimes. Suicide rates have climbed more than 30 percent in half the United States since 1999, making it a leading cause of death nationally.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation annual report released last June noted a one percent increase in suicide from 2016 to 2017, while the bureau recorded nearly 78,000 domestic offenses including 632 reported cases of rape. Though domestic offenses decreased by 1.8 percent in Tennessee from 2016 to 2017, continued prevention work remains paramount to ensure numbers continue to decrease.

The Bristol Crisis Center, established in 1973, provides free and confidential services in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia to combat sexual assault, domestic violence, abuse, and suicide through support groups, outreach and awareness programs, walk-in intervention, and a 24-hour hotline. Additionally, the center provides a “Just Checking” program to call elderly and homebound individuals each day to confirm well-being.

Crisis Center staff and volunteers follow a vision “rooted in respect, justice, hope, and inherent worth of every individual.” The primary goal lies in promoting positive change for the community as a whole through individual care. Center representatives say they “partner with people to afford them a safe space to be heard, supported, and believed in an effort to inspire healing.”

Executive Director Dr. Lynn Darnell says the hotline is the primary way the center assists individuals.

“The hotline...[allows] for a safe space to be heard without revealing identity and to learn about community resources that can provide aid when needed,” Darnell says. “In addition to the local hotline numbers, our hotline workers also answer a number of nationally promoted and maintained hotline programs.”

Workers answer national suicide hotlines 1-800-SUICIDE and 1-800-TALK, the Veterans Affairs crisis hotline, the RAINN hotline (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network), and referrals from 211 call centers that do not operate around the clock.

38

january/february 2019

VIPSEEN

nonprofit The center also offers suicide prevention education that trains teachers, health care providers, first responders, and the community at large how to identify and work with those considering selfharm. The Crisis Center collaborates at events like safeTALK, a half-day training program focused on challenging societal taboos that prevent many from talking about suicide and reinforcing safety.

The center maintains two support groups, one for sexual assault victims and another for the LGBTQ community. Both provide an inclusive space for individuals to share their stories and find support from others facing similar challenges. The adult sexual assault group meets from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m., box lunch provided. The latter group meets Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m. and is open to those 18 and older.

In addition to support groups, Darnell says the sexual assault and domestic violence programs continually expand.

“We have recently added our own SART (Sexual Assault Response Team) that will consist of many different area agencies such as law enforcement, Victim Witness, and Commonwealth attorneys,” Darnell says. “Our part will be to aid as Care Companions that will arrive at the emergency room to assist the victim and continue with that victim through all the processes of prosecution.”

Bristol Crisis Center created the “Just Checking” program through its own efforts and volunteers and the “Are You Okay” program as a collaboration with the Region III West Suicide Grant and Bristol Crisis Center. Serving more than 60 clients, the Just Checking program provides a friendly call to

participants to counter loneliness, identify elder abuse, and assist with securing food and caregivers.

The “Are You Okay” program helps those in recovery for mental health challenges find encouragement and support as they await outpatient care.

In order to keep programs running, the nonprofit center relies on volunteers and community donations. This year, the Crisis Center will host a “Great Gatsby Gala” at the Bristol Hotel on Birthplace of Country Music Way to celebrate the center’s 45th anniversary and raise funds to further its mission.

“Our hotline and Just Checking programs are totally unfunded,” Darnell says. “We are dependent on community fundraising.”

For $150, a ticket provides a sit-down dinner, dancing, a silent auction, and cash bar. The Crisis Center announced via Facebook that local band Phantom will provide live musical entertainment.

Phantom, founded in 1964, brings “party and feelgood music” to regional public and private events.

Based in Damascus, Virginia, Phantom has played at various events and in Abingdon, Bristol, Tazwell, Damascus, and Marion, Virgiania, and Mountain City, Tennessee.

The gala begins at 6 p.m. and lasts until 10 p.m.

Saturday, March 30.

Those seeking more information can reach out to the center at (276)-466-2218 or email info@ crisiscenterinc.org. The center operates its crisis hotline at (800)-273-8255 and is located at 100 Oakview Avenue, Bristol, Virginia.

Call 24/7

800-273-8255 The Crisis Center is a non-profit agency which has provided support to our community for over 40 years.

All services are free and confidential. vipseenmag.com

39

beauty

VIP

MARCH BEAUTY TIPS

by Sherri Jessee

Sherri 's Recommendations • Tattoo Junkie Lip Kit • Macy & Mia Shadow Palette • Wet n’ Wild Highlighter

Cheeks

Want your highlight to shine to the heavens? My go to is always Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powders. Infused with shimmering pearl pigments, these highlighters give a glistening glow when applied to the cheek bones. Don’t forget the brow bone, and Cupid’s bow.

SAVE 25% BY GOING TO: talkable.com/x/VvMBbg

40

january/february 2019

Nails

Press on Nails are perfect for special occasions. The easy way to a sparkling glitter manicure that stays shiny and bright with an ultra-smooth finish, without the hassle of glitter removal.

They’ll wear for up to a week!

kissusa.com

MODEL: LILLY | HAIR & MAKEUP BY SHERRI JESSEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS

• Kiss Ready to Wear Nails

Eyes

Warm tones of red, orange, peach and brown look amazing on all skin tones and help accentuate every eye color! My go to palette is Macy and Mia Those Equisite Eyes. This phenomenal shadow palette includes 5 highly pigmented shadows and 5 extraordinary pressed glitters!

macyandmia.com

USE CODE: SHERRI10 TO GET 10% OFF

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.

Lips

I am in love with glitter lips and you will be too with Tattoo Junkie lip kits! This high-pigmented lip color is a long lasting liquid lipstick that stays in place all day. An eyecatching cosmetic glitter is included to top it off for the ultimate lip look. tattoojunkee.com ENTER TJ25 FOR 25% OFF

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 CANDY AND CHUCK STIELER

CHRISTINE AND DR. GREG PASTRICK WITH LINDA BOWMAN-O’DELL

Bowman Jewelers Holiday Open House EVENT COVERED BY ERIC DONAHUE

JEFF WILLIAMS AND JOHN ROTTY

LAUREN POE WITH MICHAEL AND BRENDA GREEN

One of the most looked forward to events of the year is Bowman Jeweler’s holiday open house. Linda Bowman-Odell and Rob Bowman invited the community, and their loyal customers to a beautiful open house to celebrate the holidays and to show appreciation for those who have shopped all year long. Yummy food and delightful holiday music made the event the welcoming experience that the Bowman’s intended.

People were all about staring in the beautiful glass cases planning on their next purchases for the upcoming holidays. This year, they even had a “elf on the shelf” contest where they gave away genuine 1 carrot Diamond Stud Earrings! Bowman Jewelers has been in business since 1927 and pride themselves on their ability to help you handpick the perfect gift for your loved one. Linda makes two trips to Antwerp Belgium each year to cut out the middleman and to bring handcrafted diamonds directly to the Tri-Cities at fantastic prices. Visit them at www.bowmanjewelers.com.

RYAN AND JESSICA GAMBINO

RICK AND SANDY GELOZSEK WITH DEBBIE ENGLAND

LINDA BOWMAN-O’DELL, ASHLEY GRINDSTAFF, AND WILLIAM BARTRA

JODI WAGNER, LINZI HATLEY, AND POLLY WILEY

NANCY AND DUANE KING

AMBASSADORS OF THE JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

vipseenmag.com

43

Johnson City

SAM AND CATHY

Bidding for a Cause Singles Mingle EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

Love is in the air! On the weekend prior to Valentine’s Day, a unique fundraiser was held at the Johnson City Country Club. Hundreds of guests attended the Singles Mingle, which included several fun activities throughout the night.

Attendees could bid in a live auction that featured the TriCities most eligible bachelors complete with an amazing local date experience. A real-life Cupid kept things exciting, as he shot people with arrows and potentially made a match! If all that wasn’t enough, there was also heavy hors d’oeuvres, music, dancing, and a special cocktail made just for the event called the “Love Potion.”

CONNIE WHITAKER, JASMINE WILLIAMS, AND SUSAN GRAY

All proceeds from the event benefitted the Washington County Animal Shelter.

KASEY AND JULIE MARLER

AUSTIN HERINK AND REID LEWIS

LAURA AND GRETCHEN

CHRISTINA AND KENDRA

44

january/february 2019

DR. MONA BAHARESTANI

The Washington County Animal Shelter provides a soft bed, food, comfort, medical evaluation, medical treatment, vaccinations, and behavioral testing for each animal in their care. They place all animals who can humanely and safely be adopted into a loving home. An incredibly dedicated staff, generous volunteers and donors ensure every animal is given all the care and resources available to help them thrive in a new forever home. For more information, visit www. wcjcanimalshelter.org or call 423-926-8769.

EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

It’s part commemoration, part family reunion, and all celebration as the Carver Recreation Center in Johnson City held the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day dinner.

The dinner was held on January 21st at Carver Recreation Center.

For most, it was a time to gather and reflect, as members of the community suffered two great losses the week before the event.

Mary Alexander, long-time historian that worked tirelessly to restore the old Langston School in Johnson City and Dr. Angela Lewis, a professor at ETSU and civic volunteer both passed away within the week prior.

Guests from Kingsport’s H.O.P.E program, Dawn of Hope, Mayor Jenny Brock and members of the commission, Todd Fowler and Larry Calhoun, were present at the dinner.

Earnest Widby of New Zion Faith Center served as guest speaker and Robert McKinney emceed the event. Friendship Baptist choir

provided the music and a declaration was read by Mr. Kenneth “Herb” Greenlee, Carver Director.

The night also celebrated some members that give back to our community. Awards were given to school bus driver Elizabeth Brady and teachers Thelma Norris and Peggy Cromwell for community service. The honorary Hall of Fame award was given to Mr. Bill Adams.

Johnson City

Carver MLK Day Dinner

Carver was adorned with artwork of Dr. King by local artists.

They also celebrated the impact of Carver to the community over the years with walls full of pictures of past volunteers, children that utilized Carver Recreation Center, and the past leaders that supported it.

The King dinner is an annual event hosted free of charge for the community.

ASHLEY AND BARBARA ADAMS

MR. EARNEST WIDBY

BRENDA CHARLES AND VANESSA ROBINSON

TODD FOWLER WITH KATHY AND LARRY CALHOUN SYLVIA BACHMAN, GEORGE POPE, AND KAREN GODDARD

HARLEY BONDS WITH DAD, MICHAEL HUMPHRIES

DARRELL MURPHY AND GEORGE BRISTOL

JAMES SMITH AND DEMETRIUS LATTANY

vipseenmag.com

45

Johnson City CAYLOR HARRISON, SALLIE HICKAM, AND WHITNEY HICKAM

The Chamber of Commerce Serving Johnson City/Jonesborough/Washington County

Annual Membership Luncheon OUTGOING CHAIR ANDY DIETRICH AND CHAMBER PRESIDENT GARY MABREY

EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

A chamber membership luncheon is rarely described as emotional, but the 104th Annual Membership Meeting was filled with heartfelt sentiment.

The event was held on January 11, 2019 at the Millennium Center in Johnson City. The lunch was served by the center with guests from all areas of business and nonprofits there to celebrate a successful year for the chamber, and to look at what lies ahead.

Outgoing chair Andy Dietrich spoke about his gratitude for getting to work as part of a trio to bring regional awareness and success to the area. Dietrich teamed with Bristol Chamber Chair Jerry Caldwell and Kingsport Chair Bob Feathers for their terms to work toward achieving goals for education, health, and economic development by taking a regional approach.

DESSI FOSTER AND BARBARA MENTGEN

SHEILA REED AND TEMBRA ALDRIDGE

Dietrich also took a personal moment to thank his family and business partners for allowing him time away to take on this monumental task.

He said although his year as chair is done, he will continue his work on regionalism and on the capital campaign to raise funds for the chamber to move into a new site at the General Mills development.

Gary Mabrey then took a rare moment to address the crowd. Usually happy to facilitate wonderful events without drawing attention to himself, he took a moment to thank everyone for their support and express his gratitude for allowing him to do such great things with the chamber over the years.

Mabrey then introduced the 2018 Hall of Fame inductee, Vince Hickam.

Unfortunately, he was not able to attend, but his family accepted the award on his behalf. The most moving part, delivered by his daughter, was a speech his 5-year-old grandson, Rowe, wrote in his grandfather’s honor. He simply stated his grandfather did good things and loved people.

A view through eyes of a child that proved he is learning how to be good to the world.

MILES BURDINE, MAYOR JENNY BROCK, WITH BOB AND DIANNA CANTLER

The day concluded with the passing of the gavel from Dietrich to incoming chair Neil Poland.

PETE PETERSON AND BILL DARDEN

ETSU PRESIDENT BRIAN NOLAND AND KEVIN TRIPLETT

ELISA BRITT, DR. BOB PLUMMER, AND DR. DENNIS DEPEW

NEIL POLAND AND ANDY DIETRICH

vipseenmag.com

47

Johnson City

BETH CORNETT, RACHEAL RENFRO, AND NICOLE COLLINS

BECKY HAAS AND CINDY HAGEMANN

KYELA STEPHENS IS YOUTH OF THE YEAR

Johnson City Boys & Girls Club Annual Dinner and Awards EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

The Boys & Girls Club of Johnson City held their Annual Dinner and Awards Celebration. The event took place at Wesley United Methodist Church on Princeton Road in Johnson City on January 17, 2019.

Parents and children were able to meet with area volunteers, corporate sponsors, and board members to tell them about all the great experiences they can have as part of the club.

Director Robin Crumley addressed guests about the wonderful things coming up, including plans for a new facility.

Several speakers then gave some reflections including outgoing chair Josh Gibbons, teen club member Kyela Stephens, and several others.

J.C. RODRIGUEZ WINS TECHNOLOGY AWARD

The Boys & Girls Club of Johnson City/Washington County provides a safe place to grow and learn, ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals, life enhancing programs, and character development experiences, hope and opportunity.

Visit them online at gokidz.org or call (423) 461-4560.

Awards were then handed out to kids that excelled at the club in a variety of capacities, including sportsman, gamers, arts, and scholastics. Kyela Stephens received the highest honor of the night when she was named Youth of the Year.

48

january/february 2019

The Boys & Girls Club of Johnson City/Washington County is located at 2210 West Market Street, Johnson City, TN 37601.

WINNERS OF THE BGC CLUB AWARDS

Guest speaker, Kristan Ginnings is the parent of a club member that has seen first hand the good that the organization does within the community daily.

As President and CEO of United Way, she also spoke about the importance of funding a place that effects many young people.

Local businesses that donate through various fundraising events were awarded, with Josh Gibbons giving out a special award to a person very close to him. Josh had the honor of awarding his father, Ed Gibbons, the Outstanding Board Member for the year.

COMMUNITY PARTNER RECOGNITION AWARD RECEPIENTS

KEVIN, SHAUNA, AND HUDSON LARGE

Johnson City REV. AND MRS. CHARLTON

MARVA AND ALLEN CONLEY WITH MARY LETCHER

Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Breakfast EVENT COVERED BY ERIC DONAHUE

FAMILY AND FRIENDS GATHER FOR PRAYER

KEYNOTE SPEAKER JOHNNIE TURNER RET STATE REP/RETIRED NAACP BOARD MEMBER

On January 19th, Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church Celebration Center was the destination for a special Saturday morning prayer breakfast to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.‘s life and to honor members of our community. The special breakfast was hosted by Carver recreation Center.The proceeds of the breakfast went to the Carver youth historical field trip committee, allowing our regions youth to participate in educational field trips that may have been cost prohibitive without the support of events like this one. The breakfast also honored several members of our community at the prayer breakfast. The honorees include Reverend Vincent M. Dial, Mary dial, Donnie Emory Hamilton Senior, Terry L Phillips Senior, Charles H Charlton, and the late Ralph VanBrocklin. A special keynote speaker of the event was Johnnie Turner. Mrs. Turner is a former state representative of Tennessee and marched along with Dr. King during the civil rights movement. Her passion for Dr. King‘s life and mission were evident as every member at the prayer breakfast anxiously awaited her every word. This special event certainly set the right tone for the upcoming celebrations throughout our region set to honor Dr. King and his work.

JOHNSON CITY MAYOR JENNY BROCK AND LEILA AL-LMAD INTERFAITH PRAYER

POWERFUL EXPRESSION WORSHIP TEAM - THANKFUL BAPTIST

LISA AND PASTOR BOBBY BLACK

vipseenmag.com

49

Johnson City

The Chamber of Commerce Serving Johnson City/ Jonesborough/Washington County February Chamber Breakfast EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Members of the The Chamber of Commerce Serving Johnson City, Jonesborough, Washington County held a membership breakfast meeting on February 13, 2019. This host for the meeting was Sam’s Club of Johnson City.

The staff had the store decked out in hearts, flowers, and balloons, all in traditional Valentine’s Day colors. The event showcased the many options that any last-minute shopper would need to make the fast-approaching holiday a success.

Sam’s Club management highlighted their cyber grants program that helps local government agencies and non-profits for both Sam’s Club and Walmart stores. Two of the recipients of that grant, Dawn of Hope and Johnson City Police Department respectively talked about the various ways the grant could be utilized.

SHEILA REED, DR ED PEEKS, ASHLEY GRINDSTAFF, TEMBRA ALDRIDGE, AND WILLIAM BARTRA

Dawn of Hope used their funding to make a patio area for their clients at the facility. It featured new outdoor furniture and a gardening area. The Johnson City Police Department use their funds for their Shop with a Cop event held during the holiday season.

Also presented during the meeting was a new initiative from the area schools in the city celebrating the Sesquicentennial by bringing history to life for their students. Johnson City Schools, Ashley Academy, and ETSU University School will all participate using their own unique programs in order to teach their students the history of Johnson City’s 150 years.

The chamber also welcomed several new members to the organization and gave an update on their capitol funding project for the new facility.

RYAN FOLZ, RYAN GALYON, SAM JONES, AND BILL DARDEN

SAM’S CLUB CREW

LISA PAWLEY AND JOHNSON CITY POLICE CHIEF KARL TURNER

BOBBY REYNOLDS, SCOTT ALBRIGHT, AND SCOTT JEFFERS

The Johnson City/Jonesborough/Washington County Chamber of Commerce works to promote business, enhance economic and community development, and strives to improve the quality of life in the community and region.

The chamber unites over 750 businesses in Johnson City, Jonesborough, Washington County, and the surrounding areas. Their goal is working toward improving the business environment and economic client of the community. The chamber also serves the community be providing community events with the goal of highlighting area businesses and community activities.

GARY, SARA, CHASTITY, AND DAVID

50

january/february 2019

MELISSA DILLOW AND STACY SHANKLE

The chamber is located at 603 East Market Street, Johnson City, Tennessee.

They can be reached by calling (423) 461-8000.

Johnson City EMILY MURR, SCRUBS, AND KELLI HEINS

Niswonger Children’s Hospital Raffle EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

One lucky person went home with a brand new car on Saturday, January 19th. For the 12th year in a row, Champion Chevrolet Cadillac raised money for Niswonger Children’s Hospital by giving away a car.

LAURA LEVINE, ANDY DIETRICH, PETRA BECKER, AND LISA CARTER

“Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket in support of this in the past few months,” said Andy Dietrich, one of the owners of Champion Chevrolet Cadillac. “We couldn’t have done this for 12 years without you all.”

Both of Dietrich’s children have been patients at Niswonger Children’s Hospital, giving this fundraiser a personal feeling. Scrubs the Bear and patients of the hospital were present to help with the giveaway, which took place in the Champion showroom in Johnson City.

For more information on Niswonger Children’s Hospital, please visit www.balladhealth.org.

SCRUBS THE BEAR WITH ANDY DIETRICH AND PATIENTS FROM NISWONGER CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

52

january/february 2019

TIFFANY WILLIS AND CLAY ROLSTON

SCRUBS

KEVIN, SHAUNA, AND HUDSON LARGE

Johnson City

JOHN AND LAUREN

My Little Valentine: Daddy Daughter Dance

TERRENCE AND JULIANNA

EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

My Little Valentine: Daddy Daughter Dance has become a popular tradition for many families, and this year was no different. The event took place on Saturday, February 9th at the Memorial Park Community Center. Over 700 dads, grandads, guardians and daughters of all ages got all dressed up and danced the night away to the DJ. “This has become a tradition for a lot of dads and daughters,” said Rachel Bowers, program coordinator of Memorial Park Community Center. They come out every year, make a day of it, and go out to dinner afterwards. It’s a special day for them.”

For more information on upcoming events, visit www.myjcparks.org.

SCOTT AND MADISON

IAN AND ELSA

EMILY AND WILLIAM

OLIVIA AND MATT

54

january/february 2019

DAVEON RHYANS AND KALIYAH

CASEY AND SADIE

M

Y

Y

Y

New Name.

Same Excellence, Grit, Integrity, Service.

• TEMP-TO-HIRE • DIRECT HIRE • SHORT TERM • LONG TERM Making People Matter Most

VIPSeen GoCart 8-5x5-125.pdf

1

4/18/18

3:33 PM

luttrellstaffing.com

Marty + David Luttrell

Johnson City

Freezin for a Reason: Good Samaritan Ministries, Inc. EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Good Samaritan Ministries hosted Freezin For A Reason fundraiser on February 2nd at the Wellness Center in Johnson City. This was the first annual event to raise money for homeless citizens in the TriCities. The event brought awareness to the freezing temperatures this winter and how they affect the homeless. Record low temperatures throughout the country create life-threatening circumstances for homeless people, such as frostbite and hypothermia. Fundraisers from the commmunity or “plungers” dove into icy waters to show their support for the cause. The goal was to raise $10,000 to combat poverty and homelessness in northeast Tennessee while putting the fun in fundraising.

Take the plunge! Learn more or donate by visiting goodsamjc.org or call (423)398-3143.

JOHN WALKER

CROWD CHEERS ON “PLUNGERS”

TIM GRIZZLE AND SHARON MCKINNEY

GARRET AND NOLAN

AARON T MURPHY, CEO AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GOOD SAM

RALPH MARTIN AND SETH SILLMON

56

january/february 2019

MARKES OLDES AND PAI MUSHAYAMUNDA

Founded in 1985, Good Samaritan Ministries, Inc. is a faith-based nonprofit organization that provides for those in need through education, mentoring, and social services. Good Samaritan Ministries believes that our community can contribute resources of time, money and goods to help those in need. Recognizing the dignity and importance of each person, the Good Samaritan staff works with each individual to develop productive long-term solutions. Our purpose is to provide relief for the poor, the sick and the destitute. Immediate assistance may be available to clients in crisis situations. Need is determined through an interview with Good Samaritan staff.

Bristol DR. JOHN M. PERKINS AT BRISTOL TRAIN STATION

JEWEL BELL AND KATHY WAUGH

MARCHERS LEAVING THE YMCA

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March and Celebration EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER ADDITIONAL PHOTOS BY REECE HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

Two states, two cities; united by one street, and on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day they met in the middle to not only remember the life of Dr. King but to also celebrate all that he stood for and encouraged in others.

MARCHERS LEAVING FIRST CHRISTIAN

LORENA COHEA

The event held on January 21, 2019 was the 2nd annual citywide celebration for Bristol sponsored by YWCA NETN and SWVA, Bristol Train Station and Appalachian Peace Education Center. Community members on the Tennessee side gathered at the YMCA and on the Virginia side at First Christian Church to march toward a symbolic bridging of the community.

The groups completed the march by meeting under the Bristol sign where a group photograph was taken before heading inside of the Bristol Train Station for an inspirational program where area civic leaders and community members took part in prayers, music, readings, and dialogue aimed at bringing the community together. Dr. John M. Perkins, internationally known speaker and teacher on reconciliation, surprised the group and shared words of encouragement.

The event ended with the joining of hands with one another in song and fellowship. Anyone that attended the event and would like to contribute feedback, take part in future planning, or are interested in continued dialogue and study should email bristomlk@gmail.com.

MARCHERS MEETING IN THE MIDDLE

TROY SHELLEY AND PASTOR WILLIAM REID

PROGRAM AT BRISTOL TRAIN STATION

DAKARI AND ALIMINIA WHEELER

vipseenmag.com

57

KANDY CHILDRESS, TODD NORRIS, AND LORI PAYNE

BETH BORTZ AND ALLISON ROGERS

Business Health Collaborative STORY AND PHOTOS BY LEXIE LITTLE

As Ballad Health prepares to celebrate its first anniversary, the medical group invites local chambers of commerce to reduce regional medical costs for businesses through a new initiative to educate and reverse poor health behaviors.

Thursday, Jan. 23, Ballad Health hosted a Business Health Collaborative kickoff in the Bristol Regional Medical Center Monarch Auditorium to “create an ongoing platform for education and idea sharing to support economic growth and development in our region” as ways to lower health costs, promote hiring and retention, and attract businesses and industries.

President and CEO of Virginia Center of Health Innovation (VCHI) Beth Bortz spoke to members of local chambers of commerce including those of Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City. As the CEO of a nonprofit focused on value-driven healthcare, Bortz knows the importance of building high value care and eliminating low value expenditures.

“In health care, we just pay for services, typically,” Bortz said. “We don’t pay for value. So, at the Center, we are about trying to change that dynamic, and Ballad has wanted to be a part of that conversation.”

Bortz and her team at VCHI work with researchers to develop data sets and analytical resources to inform healthcare providers, health professionals, government leaders, consumers, and employers to enact better decision-making.

Bortz emphasized healthcare data trends in Southwest Virginia obtained through VCHI studies. Claims data from 2016 showed 82 percent of all baseline laboratory studies (pre-op labs) in advance of low-risk surgeries could have been eliminated with no harm to patients, costing consumers millions of dollars. As the most prevalent low value service,

58

january/february 2019

VCHI recently launched a proposal to eliminate such labs through collaboration with local healthcare providers like Ballad Health, a partner of the initiative.

“We requested $2.3 million to put together a health system collaborative across the state to work on ‘Drop the Pre-Op,’” Bortz said. “Thankfully, Ballad is one of our partners in that submission, so we’re waiting to hear [from the government].”

In 2017, Southwest Virginians paid more than $167 million for low value services. Each monthly patient spent approximately $13.70 on unnecessary services. Through the new collaborative, the chambers of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia hope to reduce low value numbers.

By reducing low value services, Bortz says a shift toward high value services through saved funds can improve overall health and consumerism. High value services include preventative screenings for those at risk for diabetes and cancer, potentially avoiding exponential future costs by catching indicators early.

special feature VIPSEEN

The path to reducing low value numbers and supporting high value healthcare ultimately starts with communication between employers and healthcare providers.

“My takeaway: go back and look at your plan,” Gary Mabrey, the president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce serving Johnson City, Jonesborough, and Washington County, said to employers. “You’ve got a [human resources] person, that’s cool, small businesses without an HR [person], okay...call your agent and say, ‘Let’s go over these details. The angel is in the details.

We aren’t going to even think about the devil. We’re going to think about the angel.”

gauge the collaborative’s potential reach. “[The survey] starts to help us understand how much influence we may be able to have as providers as we think about how we can work together to try to improve the quality of care and lower our healthcare costs.”

The team at Ballad Health hopes to be a leader and example in the collaborative as both a provider and a business with employees to serve.

“We are also an employer,” Rogers said. “We struggle a lot with some of the same challenges that you guys (local businesses) have.”

‘‘With emphasis on serving community needs, Ballad maintains a mission to listen to local voices and serve businesses and individuals alike...”

Through the saving grace, saving money and bettering employee health services by evaluating care value, the region possesses potential to attract new businesses and improve the health of those in existence. Regional health initiative groups already in place hope to bolster efforts in the months to come, as the group plans to meet regularly.

Rogers said Ballad uses data driven research to foster a “best practices approach” including wellness programs, chronic disease management, food and vending services, and other resources for team members. Ballad Health works as an employer to combat challenges reflected around the region like weight management, depression, and sleep habits.

Healthy Kingsport, a non-profit promoting wellness and health policies and infrastructure, launched the foundation for its network of sponsors and partners in 2011. Executive Director Kandy Childress and team work with various organizations to promote more activity, better nutrition, and discontinuation of tobacco use.

With more than 70 percent of Sullivan County adults classified as overweight or obese and 26 percent tobacco users, collaborative efforts between Healthy Kingsport and others parallel the mission of the Business Health Collaborative.

Childress says she is excited to support new efforts. She hopes to marry Healthy Kingsport’s initiatives with the collaborative’s goals, agreeing with Ballad’s Senior Vice President of Strategy and Value Based Care Allison Rogers who emphasized power in numbers and power in data. Attendees represented thousands of employees who, together, can change the region’s health landscape as they work toward common goals, just as Healthy Kingsport helped partners to establish widespread tobacco free campuses and reduce tobacco use among the regional workforce.

Rogers hopes to tap into the collective regional workforce to enact similar change.

“I think we have a lot of power, collective power, as employers in this region,” Rogers said, asking attendees to fill out a survey to

The medical conglomerate formed Feb. 1, 2018 as a result of a merger between Mountain-States Health Alliance and Wellmont Health System after three years of exploration, applications, and review. Since, Ballad Health professionals have worked to realign local urgent care centers and opened a 40,000-squarefoot hospital in Unicoi County. In November 2018, Ballad Health announced plans to realign trauma and emergency care operations, including pediatric trauma services widely debated in the community. With emphasis on serving community needs, Ballad maintains a mission to listen to local voices and serve businesses and individuals alike, upholding its slogan: “It’s your story. We’re listening.”

Through the new collaborative, the respective chamber members will write the region’s history together, hoping to tell a healthier, and more cost effective, story. vipseenmag.com

59

Bristol TODD BERTHOLD AND DAVID WAGNER

HELEN SCOTT AND JOE DUNAGAN, HEALING HANDS HEALTH CENTER

TANYUA AND BILLY KERNS WITH BELTON AND JERRY CALDWELL

Bristol Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Celebration EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

The Bristol Chamber of Commerce hosted their Annual Awards Celebration at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center. The celebration is the Chamber’s largest annual event. The event was also a birthday celebration for the Chamber, which turned 110 years old in 2019. Other local businesses and organizations were invited to recognize their birthdays as well. Service awards were presented. BTES was awarded the 5-Star Business of the year award. Carl Moore, a founding partner of Bristol Motor Speedway, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Other winners were Ambassador of the Year: Kim Sproles, Discover Bristol Award: Jerry Caldwell, Keep Bristol Beautiful Award: Randy Short, and Leadership Service Award: Tara McCall.

EASTMAN CREDIT UNION REPRESENTATIVES

Since 1909 and located in the heart of downtown, the Bristol Chamber of Commerce represents business in Bristol Tennessee, Bristol Virginia and the surrounding Tri-Cities Region.

LADONNA STREET AND AMY SHUTTLE

MILES BURDINE (KINGSPORT CHAMBER PRESIDENT) AND BETH RHINEHART (BRISTOL CHAMBER PRESIDENT)

The Bristol Chamber is proud to hold a prestigious 5-Star Accreditation from the United States Chamber of Commerce. The Bristol Chamber of Commerce is in the top 1.5% of Chambers in the country for strong business practices, leadership, outstanding contributions to the Bristol community, supporting free enterprise and pro-growth policies, and establishing best practices to remain on the cutting edge. While representing nearly 700 business investors, the Bristol Chamber of Commerce has demonstrated its value as the leader of the business community.

BRISTOL CHAMBER REPRESENTATIVES

BRISTOL CHAMBER ICE SCULPTURE

60

january/february 2019

BRAD STALLARD AND CARL GREEAR

Bristol ALEXANDRA VEATCH

THE HOUSE HOPPERS: LIBBY PASCOE, LANDON GEORGE, MICK GLASGOW, STACEY ANN GLASGOW, VADEN LANDERS, AND LEO JOHNSON

Third Annual Wine & Chocolate Festival The third annual Wine & Chocolate Festival in Bristol provided plenty opportunity for patrons to indulge in waves of whites and reds, but the real benefit went to those younger than the legal drinking age. As jazz music filled the Bristol Train Station and attendees perused silent auction items, ate chocolate, and drank complementing wine, Highlands Community Services (HCS) workers counted donation dollars benefiting its Children’s Services and Children’s Advocacy Center.

With all proceeds going to HCS’s children-focused initiatives, the Wine & Chocolate Festival raised funds to support at-risk children and families in Washington and Smyth counties and Bristol, Virginia on Friday, Feb. 1. Six chocolate vendors set up tasting tables with two samples each while community volunteers poured wine from tasting sponsor Parkway Wine & Liquor.

EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

Local volunteers joined HCS’s efforts, as fraternity brothers from Emory & Henry College’s Kappa Sigma chapter hung coats and First Bank and Trust Company representatives aided as pour service. The House Hoppers, an Asheville, North Carolina-based band, played its brand of “rootsy blues and swingin’ vintage pop” to keep spirits moving.

Vendors included: Chocolate Elegance of Kingsport; Clean Eats of Glade Spring, Virginia; That Cookie Dough of Bristol; the Abingdon Olive Oil Company; Good Cheer Chocolate of Mars Hill, North Carolina; and the Ladybug Café and Cakery of Bristol. Four Seasons Catering & Bakery served as caterers.

“We couldn’t do without our volunteers [and vendors],” Veatch said.

“This is one of our fundraisers to help keep things going. We also are able to use some of these funds [to expand]. We built a playground at our children’s campus, so it gives us a little bit extra to do the extra things we know go a long way for kids," says one of the organizers.

Founded in 1972, Highlands Community Services commits to “improving lives and discovering possibilities” by helping all individuals who seek mental health, substance use, and developmental help services. Jeff Fox currently serves as the executive director of eight different locations in Abingdon and Bristol, Virginia.

Children’s Services and the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) provide support for at-risk children through prevention education, behavioral intervention, investigative interviews, infant and toddler services for those with disabilities and developmental delays, and crisis treatment. With hopes of making every child feel safe and supported, CAC provides counseling and advocates on behalf of child victims of abuse or neglect.

Those seeking more information or help can call the nonprofit at (276)-525-1550.

In 2018, CAC staff counseled 143 children and helped 155 caregivers through family advocacy and support services. The team also provided victim support to 140 child victims and 114 caretakers. Last year, CAC raised more than $5,000 at the event. Through fundraising efforts like its Wine & Chocolate Festival, the nonprofit organization continues to expand its reach and develop the region’s future, one child at a time.

FRONT: SHARON REED, JENNI ROOP, MIRANDA FELTY, AND AMANDA HAYWIRTH BACK: STEPHEN REED, BRAD ROOP, ROBBIE JANET SHEPHERD, TAMMY MILLER, AND ANGIE SHREEVES

MATT SEALS AND WAYNE ANDERSON

VENDORS LINE THE SIDES OF THE BRISTOL TRAIN STATION AS ATTENDEES MINGLE AND TASTE

vipseenmag.com

61

Bristol PETER AND FRAN COMBS

WILL AND SHANNON PHILLIPS

BENJAMIN WALLS REVEALING HIS NEWEST WORK

Benjamin Walls Open House Thanksmas EVENT COVERED BY ERIC DONAHUE

In the heart of downtown Bristol you will find the Benjamin Walls Gallery. During this holiday season Benjamin Walls Gallery hosted a special holiday open house to appreciate their clients and open their doors to art lovers in our community. The theme of this open house was “Thanksmas”. The gallery is filled with unique one-of-a-kind original images from Benjamin Walls himself. Benjamin is a five-time Smithsonian exhibitor. He has seven international awards and some of his collectors include Grammy award winners, fortune 500 CEOs, Hollywood producers and politicians. Owning a one-of-a-kind Benjamin walls piece of art will certainly put you in good company. Visiting the gallery is a unique experience for any time of the year but this holiday open house set the scene for a one-of-a-kind visit. The staff at Benjamin Walls Gallery hosted a beautiful event that made holiday shopping a breeze. Even though the holidays are over there’s no better time for adding to your collection or starting your very own unique art collection. Visit them at www benjaminwalls.com.

KATIE NOEL AND JANIE GENTRY

JARED HULL AND RHIANA VANSOSSAN

OLIVIA CHAPPELEAR, JENNA LOTTMAN, AND NIKKI SKILLMAN FLORENCE FRACAROSSI

DANIELLE KISER AND JOHANN COETZEE

vipseenmag.com

63

Bristol ROGER ROMANS AND ELLA

JACOB JONES AND DAUGHTERS

VALLIE AND LEWAYNE LUTTRELL

Bows & Bow Ties Father/Daughter Ball EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Young women had the chance to learn the dance moves to “YMCA” from their Dads/Father figures. In return, the girls taught the men the grace of twirling and dipping! Bristol Ballet held their eleventh annual “Bows & Bow Ties Father/Daughter Ball” on Sunday, February 10th at the Holiday Inn in Bristol.

FRANKIE SLAUGHTER AND RYLEE ANN

DANCING WITH DADDY

Some of the men learned how to dance on their knees, while others held their dates in their arms to twirl to the music. It wasn’t unusual to hear “Again, Daddy, again”!

Special memories were created as the girls arrived with their escorts. They had opportunities to pose for photos while showing off their beautiful gowns and corsages. Afternoon tea was served with sweet treats to build up endurance for the dancing. Music played by DJ Express covered all genres and allowed for a festive environment. Moon Bound Girl, Leigh Ann Agee, had a booth set up with her popular art designs.

WILL SCHEUER AND SKYLAR

CHARLENE BAKER, EVENT ORGANIZER

KELLY BARNETTE AND ANNELIESE

I’VE GOT THE MOVES!

Bristol Ballet is a 501(c)3 organization, governed by a board of directors.

Michele Plescia serves as the Artist Director for the Ballet.

This organization relies heavily on donations from individuals and corporate sponsors, as well as grants. Bristol Ballet has been awarded grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission and the Virginia Commission for the Arts for many years. Also, volunteers of all kinds are needed to help accomplish the many goals of the school and company.

If you would like to support the Bristol Ballet through donations, sponsorship, or volunteer work, please visit their website at www. bristolballet.org.

64

january/february 2019

MUAH!

Jonesborough SUSIE AND JIM

LOU AND NIKKI NELSON

DONNA PACK AND LENNIS EVERETT

MISTY COTTON AND DIEGO IGLESIAS

Jonesborough Chocolate Fest EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

The weekend before Valentine’s Day was the perfect time for the 2019 Jonesborough Chocolate Fest. Held in the beautiful downtown of Historic Jonesborough, the event marked its 4th year. Attendees went on a walking tour through Tennessee’s oldest town and visited area merchants and restaurants, which provided delicious chocolate treats.

There was everything from barks, fudges, chocolate covered strawberries, and so much more, making this chilly Saturday morning a lot sweeter!

The Jonesborough Area Merchants and Service Association is a community of business owners and organizations interested in cooperatively enhancing our livelihoods and neighborhood. We desire to discuss ideas and take action to help strengthen economic viability while maintaining our town’s character.

For more information, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/JAMSAjbo.

CHIP AND LAKEN

CHESTER INN MUSEUM HAS FUDGE!

LAURA AND NATHAN JONES

MEAGAN MCPHERESON AND CALLIE CROCKETT

CANDACE COLLINS AND ANDREW LEGAN

GLENNA AND JANE

MICHELLE AND AUTUMN

ADRIENNE, JUSTIN, AND ANDREW SPINA

vipseenmag.com

65

Jonesborough

ERNESTINE VAUGHT, CHARLES AND OVETA THOMAS ANGELO NEWMAN

Langston Lives!

EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

There are times when we think history is so far in the past that we are far beyond it, and sometimes we get a glimpse of the past and realize that it wasn’t all that long ago.

This could be said of the journey that storyteller Sheila Arnold took her audience on when she performed at Langston Lives! a fundraiser for the renovation of the Langston High School property in Johnson City in order to establish a multi-cultural arts center.

The event was held at the International Storytelling Center on February 16, 2019 and could have been more of a reunion than a gala event. Several people that had attended Langston, Johnson City’s High School during the era of racial segregation.

Arnold took on the spirit of Langston School and took the audience on a walk down memory lane from its opening in 1893 up until the last class left as they were integrated into Science Hill HighSchool in 1965.

The spirit remembered the good and the bad. At one point Langston students worked so hard the school received an “A” rating by the Tennessee Association of Schools and an “A-“from the Southeastern Association of Schools, and that how soon after their beloved director was dismissed on a suspicious grounds. When they beat Science Hill so bad in a scrimmage that coaches there refused to play Langston again. Memories of the band marching into old downtown before home football games, or how the only living teacher from Langston, Miss Callie Redd, gave her own brother a “D” in French.

Spirit visited them all, and as she interacted with the crowd,she had them singing old school songs, and remembering familiar names,

EVELYN DEBRO, LINDA KYLE, AND PATSY CORNICK

and then she gave those from Langston a chance to introduce themselves. Yes, many students for the era of segregation are still quite alive and well, and they were a bevy of history in their own right, although humble about it. The first black football player at ETSU, the first black female 9-1-1 operator in Washington County, the first black female to graduate from University High, the list kept going.The students showed they were the epitome of the Langston motto “Enter to Learn, depart to serve.” Serve their school they did, until they reached the last, Mr. Michael Young, who was, the last to ever graduate from Langston School.Spirit then lead them to the loneliness of an empty school, the feeling of the trophy case abandoned from the proud days of winning, the building sad and empty and slowly dying, how it belonged to that community and it could have life again, for all people of the community, for the memory of Langston. After leading the guests through the emotional highs and lows, Arnold slips out of sight while they are singing the Langston School Anthem, but with microphone still hot spirit utters one last phrase that made sure there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as she said “ and so I go, some of you I know I will see again when you come through my door...oh and by the way a friend of our wanted me to say hello...

Mary Alexander is in good hands.”

Alexander was a driving force for over 20 years to save the Langston School from being destroyed and finding a way to revitalize it. She devoted years to preserving the school’s history and heritage for Johnson City. Mary passed away just weeks before this benefit. Also remembered in the evening was Dr. Ralph Van Brocklin who helped secure funding for the renovations before his sudden death last year.

MAYOR JENNY BROCK, MS. CALLIE REDD (THE ONLY LIVING LANGSTON TEACHER), FORMER MAYOR MICKI CARTER

BEVERLY BARNETT AND GENEVA FAIN

DEBORAH GRAY AND RACHEL SMITH

66

MIRIAM PERKINS AND MIKE WOODS

january/february 2019

JOHN AND DORA RUSSAW

Jonesborough KAYLA, LESLIE, TIM, AND RYKER

LAURA AND CAPTAIN MICHAEL COX

KRISTAN GINNINGS, GARY MCALLISTER, AND JENNIFER OWEN

United Way of Washington County Celebration EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

The United Way of Washington County has had a whirlwind year in 2018. They added a new President and CEO in Kristan Ginnings, moved into a new space, launched a new website, and ushered in a new literacy program for area children. On January 24th they gathered with the community at Grace Meadows Farm in Jonesborough, Tennessee to celebrate all those accomplishments, as well as the end of their 2018 campaign that raised almost 1.6 million dollars for area programs.

Chairman Gary McAllister gave rave reviews to Ginnings, who took the helm only ten months ago. Ginnings has moved the goal post for other major United Way agencies for her hands-on approach for helping the community.

McAllister and incoming board chair Jennifer Owen also spoke about the innovative literacy program Vello, a virtual tutoring program that allows for volunteers to tutor school children in reading without having to leave their office. The program has seen such success that

Ginnings will be the first in the nation to launch Vello into after-school programs. Other milestones were celebrated like the 1500 pairs of shoes given to school children and the expansion of the number of nonprofits and programs receiving funding.

As McAllister passed the baton to Owen. She introduced the new year of campaign fundraising and brought a new friend to help.

Wishmore the wizard gnome will be going out into the community to help raise awareness about the United Way. Anyone wishing to follow the journey can follow it by using #Wishmore2019.

Niswonger Children’s Hospital CEO Lisa Carter was the guest speaker. She spoke about making lasting changes and the challenges they bring.

Carter left the audience with one last piece of wisdom in the form of a motto she lives by: “Today I will do what others won’t so that tomorrow I can do what others can’t.”

United Way of Washington County serves Johnson City, Jonesborough, and the greater Washington County area. Their goal is to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in the community.

JEB BOSWELL AND TERRI KNAPP

TAMMY AND DAN ELDRIDGE WITH MELISSA STEAGALL-JONES

HAOWEI TONG AND LYNNE FUGATE

REBECCA HENNESSEE AND ROBIN CRUMLEY

MITZI MALONE, DIANE BRADLEY, AND JOE HARDIN

The mission of the United Way Washington County is to improve the lives of people by mobilizing the caring power of communities. It unites them together to focus on the most important of human needs by building partnerships, forging consensus, and leveraging resources to make a difference.

United Way Washington County supports 21 organizations and 35 programs. The organization began as the Johnson City Community Chest in 1930 and changed in 1945 to be a part of United Way. United Way of Washington County is located at 1907 North Roan Street, Suite 409, Johnson City, Tennessee 37601. The organization’s President and CEO is Kristan Ginnings. They can be contacted at (423) 220-1229 or online at www.uwowc.org. vipseenmag.com

67

Jonesborough

ALDERMAN VIRGINIA CAUSEY, ALDERMAN/VICE MAYOR ADAM DIXON

SKYE MCFARLAND AND HANNAH JUSTIS

Martin Luther King Day Peace Walk & Community Art Project

MICHELLE TREECE AND KATELYN YARBROUGH

EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Tennessee’s oldest town celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the McKinney Center, which was once Booker T. Washington School. The now renovated school was originally built to educate African-American children, first grade through eighth grade.

The weather was too cold to participate in the walk. Instead, guests gathered in the McKinney Center and listened to different storytellers. Stories of Jonesborough’s part in the civil rights journey were told to the audience. For example, the Emancipator was

published on Main Street in 1820. Written

by Elihu Embree, the Emancipator was the first newspaper in the United States solely devoted to the abolition of slavery.This event highlighted ordinary people that took small steps towards change. These small steps made an extraordinary impact on history that we continue to remember and share today.

At the end of the program, the audience was challenged to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by committing to continual progressand sharing his teachings.

PAUL BRAXTON

STEPHANIE SMITH AND CASSIE BOYD

TERESA HAMMONDS, DIRECTOR OF MCKINNEY CENTER

COMMUNITY ART PROJECT PARTICIPANTS

The McKinney Center is located in the historic Booker T. Washington School at 103 Franklin Avenue. The Booker T. Washington School was originally completed in 1939 as part of the WPA program and opened its doors in 1940 for the purpose of instructing African-American children, first grade through eighth grade. The school operated until integration in 1965 and then sat dormant until 2010 when the Town of Jonesborough decided to restore the building.

The building was renamed in honor of the McKinney family whose members made great contributions to the town of Jonesborough. Ernest L. McKinney served as principal of Booker T. Washington School and served as the first AfricanAmerican alderman of Jonesborough, voted into office on April 4, 1968.

NANCY COMER

68

january/february 2019

The McKinney Center also houses the Mary B. Martin Program for the Arts.To Learn more, Contact Director Theresa Hammons at (423)753-0562 or visit jonesboroughtn.org

Blountville MARSHA PANGELINAN

CHASIDY HATHORN

Drinkin’ Wine & Feline Fine

HEATHER WHITTLE AND CINDY HOLMES

EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Everyone was “Feline Fine” on Saturday, February 8th at an event to help fund a regional free/ low-cost Spay and Neuter program. Neonatal Kitten Rescue, in conjunction with Corey Ippolito Winery, hosted the event at the winery, located in Blountville, TN. Numerous local shelters and non-profit rescue groups partnered together to raise funding for the low-cost/neuter events.

A “kitten shower” was held, (complete with cake!) to collect donations for kitten kits. The kits will be distributed to potential fosters to help deter them from taking young kittens to local shelters and will provide them with a way to assist in taking care of the over-abundance of neonatal kittens in our area.

Cats were available for adoption, and many found “purr-fect” forever homes. The winery was proud to adopt “Tux,” and he will be known as the “tasting room” cat. Appropriate, since he looks like he is wearing a permanent tuxedo!

Special events during the day included: Yoga and Wine with Abigail Freeburn; Snip, Paint, and Sip with Chasidy Hathorn; and music by Beth Snapp. The silent auction had many exciting items, including guitars signed by the Rolling Stones and The Eagles. Vendors were also on site throughout the day.

SHELBY WARD AND THE TASTING STATION

Visit the website at neonatalkittenrescue.org to make donations.

RITA MINOR

CARLA NICKLE AND PRETTY GIRL

ALEX BROWN AND TUX

JULIE BEDWANI

SHARON BRADLEY AND AMBER LANE

LYNN SLAGLE

vipseenmag.com

69

Gray DANIEL BOONE HIGH SCHOOL MARINE ROTC

MELANIE AND HER BROTHER RYAN

Tebow’s Night to Shine

ELI FERGUSON, SARAH LAWSON, DAVID BRITTER, CRYSTAL LAWSON, AND ETHAN COLE

EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

They put on their best dresses, suits, and tuxedos to walk the carpet at Tebow’s Night to Shine. A prom type of event for special needs persons, which is now in its 3rd year at Crossroads Christian Church in Gray, Tennessee.

The event was held nationwide, all at the same time, on February 8, 2019. Those attending had a variety of activities to choose from to get ready for the event. You could get your hair and makeup done by J.C. Penney Hair Salon and Sephora from the Johnson City Mall or get a shoe shine from volunteers.

Guests could then stop by for a boutonniere or corsage and have a picture taken before choosing one of the many volunteer escorts to go to the main room and enjoy dancing.

CASEY OSBORNE ESCORTED AMANDA JOY

HANNAH EVERHART AND RHYLEE

Once attendees entered the ballroom, Preston Ayers from WCYB did a formal introduction and the Daniel Boone High School Marine ROTC made an archway to walk down.

A DJ kept the beats going as friend escorts and a group of gorgeous beauty queens kept the dance floor going for hours.

Those needing a break from the party could watch some magic unfold with a magician that did continuous shows during the night.

Guests came from as far away as Coeburn, Virginia for the event, and the night ended as good as any Cinderella story, as everyone was crowned with prom king or queen, complete with their own crowns and tiaras.

AREA TITLEHOLDERS CROWN KINGS AND QUEENS FOR THE NIGHT

LOCAL TITLEHOLDERS VOLUNTEERED AT TEBOW’S NIGHT TO SHINE

Night to Shine is an event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation for people with special needs to have a prom experience. Over 200,000 volunteers across the country come together to celebrate with over 100,000 guests nationwide.

CALLIE AND MICHELLE GILLIS

It is hosted by 650 churches in all 50 states, 22 countries, and 35 different denominations. More information about night to shine can be found at www.timtebowfoundtaion.org.

ASHLEY MOODY WITH LOGAN AND PEABODY

70

january/february 2019

Tennessee's FIRST and ONLY Dr. Kathy Sanders is the state's first and only dentist to receive Fellowship Accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

And, the 81st dentist worldwide!

423.239.7899 | drkathysanders.com

tastes What does the term “cold pressed” olive oil mean?

VIP

In

a recent archeological dig, an olive mill was found dating back over 5,000 years. In ancient times, olive oil was created by crushing olives, pits and all, with stones into a paste called “pomace”. In villages of antiquity, this was usually a chore for the women who would crush the olives by hand. As time evolved and even today on small batch family estates, a donkey will walk around a circular stone tub filled with olives, crushing them with a stone weighing 1000 pounds or more known as millstones. The pomace is then put into baskets, usually made of hemp or coconut fibers, and stacked on a pole; one on top of the other. Stones or weights are placed on top pressing the oil out of the baskets and into a stone tub or vessel below.

This form of crushing the fruit produces no heat thereby producing a healthy oil. Note: To see a short video, visit our website blog at http:// blog.abingdonoliveoil.com/making-olive-oil/ Modern milling techniques use stainless steel machines called “malaxers.” The olives are first shaken on open weave conveyor belts to separate the stems and any stones, then washed three times then

72

january/february 2019

gently moved into a malaxer. Inside the malaxer, the olives are gently turned and churned to create the pomace. This keeps the fruit from bruising; setting up the oxidation process that would lead to an overripe affect of the finished olive oil. Think of bananas or a cut apple that turns brown when dropped or is exposed to oxygen in the air.

IOOC (International Olive Oil Commission) standards require olive oil to be produced at 27C (80F) or below to create olive oil that retains characteristics and chemical content required by the IOOC for human consumption. Since the malaxer is stainless steel, some heat is produced during the malaxing process. Therefore, an outer casing around the malaxing device holds water maintained at a certain temperature to keep the pomace from overheating. Once the pomace is created, it is moved to a centrifuge where the oil is separated from the naturally occurring water in the fruit.

Because the pits hold a great deal of nutrients, as in ancient times, our producers crush the whole fruit, olive and pits. However, the pits can be a bit waxy. Since our oils are never filtered, they will vary in clarity, texture and viscosity.

Come into Abingdon Olive Oil Company today to sample The Taste of Good Health!

tastes

VIP

Debbie’s EZPZ Artichoke Tapenade from The Happy Hearts Kitchen INGREDIENTS

• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained • 14 AOOC Lemon stuffed olives • 1 clove garlic • 2 T. capers • Juice of 1/2 lemon • 2 T chopped parsley • 3 oz. grated Parmesan cheese • 6 T. AOOC Extra Virgin Olive Oil of choice DIRECTIONS

1. Blend until smooth but slightly chunky.

2. Serve on EZPZ No Knead Focaccia or thinly sliced Italian bread rounds brushed with olive oil of choice and toasted to lightly brown.

Erwin CHRIS AND PENELOPE WILSON

BRYLEA PONCE WITH UNCLE DUSTIN STREET

KRISTIN ANDERS AND JAMIE RICE

Erwin Daddy Daughter Dance EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Little girls in fabulous dresses for a valentine’s dance of their own. This was the scene at The Bramble event space on Saturday, March 9, 2019 as the held the 2nd Annual Daddy Daughter Dance.

The windows of the The Bramble venue was all decked out with their “This is Erwin” hearts on the windows. Owners Kristin Anders and Jamie Rice donated the space for the event.

Inside, a Cinderella carriage donated from HHH farms, and a photographer to capture the special moments.Plenty of punch and cookies were available and it was all topped off with an ice cream sundae bar. Heaven for any little girl!

ERWIN MONDAY CLUB

The young ladies were able to invite their dad or any other father figure in their life to attend the event with them. Dads were decked out in their best suits to match the beautiful tutus, dresses, and tiaras of their little princesses. Dads and daughters danced the night away to contemporary tunes and even a few that were from way back when.

All proceeds from the event goes to support the Unicoi County Public Library’s Imagination Library Program. The group had the ASPIRE mobile library bus that is also used to help with summer feeding programs in the summer months and operates as a mobile library.

BROOKLYN, PAUL, AND MADISON BRASWELL

AVERY, JOHNNY, AND ALIVIA BOMAR

DAVID AND CARISA EDWARDS

KALI AND ADAM

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free books to children from birth to age five. Each Community must match funds to assist in providing these books.

The program was inspired by her father’s inability to read and write. It was started in 1995 for her home county, and has expanded to all counties in Tennessee, several states, and four countries.

For more information on how to sign up or donate to a particular Imagination Library program in a Tennessee County, visit their webpage at www.imaginationlibrary.com.

LAYLA AND JOSH PETERSON

76

january/february 2019

Kingsport JACK PIERCE, MAYOR JOHN CLARK, AND JAMES HENDERSON

REV. KENNETH CALVERT

OVERSEER RONNIE COLLINS

19th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

People braved the cold temperatures on Monday, January 21st, to come out for the Nineteenth Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade in Downtown Kingsport. Participants expressed that “love is love” and unity is our hope for the future. Ronnie Collins, the event organizer, emphasized that our area needs to continue to work together to show that we can make a change to unite our community.

In his words, “we are better, together!”

The parade route was a twenty-minute walk through downtown Kingsport. Participants enjoyed walking together and waving to on-lookers before gathering at the steps of city hall. Ronnie Collins addressed the crowd with closing comments about the recent renaming of a section of Lincoln Street to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Parkway. In three years, Collins hopes to see all of Lincoln Street renamed to honor the late Rev. Dr. King, Jr.

Participant Bianka Adamatti, a human rights activist from Johnson City came to walk in the Kingsport parade. Bianka believes that unification among minority groups will defeat discrimination.

Rev. Kenneth Calvert invited Derek Harden, pastor of Christ Fellowship to offer an invocation for the crowd. The cold air warmed up as participants in the event huddled together and shared the love that units our community and celebrates diversity.

NEW VISION YOUTH

ANTHONY JOHNSON, MRS. LINDA JANE HOOD, OVERSEER RONNIE COLLINS, AND MILES BURDINE

REV. DEREK HARDEN

MADDIE RATLIFF AND MAKAILA BELL

MARY WELSH AND LINDA KINCAID

ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC.

vipseenmag.com

77

Kingsport KIETH HICKEY, ADAM NEWSOME, AND GREG PERDUE

ALISHA NAPIER AND JULIE WRIGHT-SHORT

JENNY KONTOS, ANGIE MARSHALL, AND RHONDA SMITH

Leadership Kingsport Taco Tuesday

TONY WILDER

EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Your Kingsport Chamber hosted a lunch event for Leadership Kingsport alumni and guests on January 15. Taco Tuesday was a fun and unique lunch networking event for those interested in participating in the Leadership Kingsport program and those who have already completed the program. Attendees could reunite with fellow classmates and meet graduates from other classes. This event was also a great opportunity for guests that were interested in participating in future programs. They were able to network with alumni and learn all about Leadership Kingsport and how to apply. This program is perfect for people who want to be more involved in the Kingsport community while growing professionally.

DANA MCMURRAY AND VANESSA BENNETT

TAMARA ROLLER AND CAROLINE JONES

TIM STORY AND DENNIS COURTNEY

MARYBETH MCLAIN AND JEFF HOSTETLER

EMILY BALL AND DANA GLENN

This program provides learning and development opportunities for talented people interested in guiding our community to new heights for future generations.

You will build your leadership skills while you build your community in Leadership Kingsport!

About 30-35 individuals are selected for each year’s class based on submitted applications and personal interviews. To graduate, you must engage fully in the process and have the workplace flexibility to attend day-long sessions monthly from October – May. There is also a team building 2-3 day trip in September and a 2-3 day trip to Nashville in March. You may also have other meetings when completing a community impact project (CIP).

78

JESSICA HARMON, MIKE MCINTIRE, AND TABITHA EBBERT

january/february 2019

TINA RADTKE

To learn more contact Vanessa Bennett at vbennett@kingsportchamber.org

Kingsport DANELLE GLASSCOCK, HAOWEI CLAIRE TONG, AND KARA RUSSELL

KEITH PARKER AND WAYNE LITTLE

MARY GRAHAM AND WENDY PEAY

United Way of Greater Kingsport Annual Meeting EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

The United Way of Greater Kingsport (UWGK) kicked off 2019 with a game plan: to continue following its mission fighting for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in the community, improving lives through its endeavors.

Thursday, Feb. 7, United Way members gathered in the Douglass Room of the V.O. Dobbins Senior Complex in Kingsport to honor achievements in 2018, outline plans for 2019, and introduce the incoming board of directors.

Ballad Health Senior Vice President of Market Operations Eric Deaton gave the keynote address, noting each person faces the responsibility of making the community better than he or she found it.

“We need to really think about what is our responsibility as leaders moving forward,” Deaton said. “...I think that servant leadership is such an important aspect of how we should lead.”

As in any team effort, major players received recognition for their leadership. UWGK acknowledged Live United award winners for extended service and results. Rhonda Reeves

of Ballad Health accepted the award for her role on the human relations committee and tenure on the 2013-2015 boards.

Winner, and Executive Director of Friends in Need, Bruce Sites helped to develop Appalachian Miles for Smiles (AMS) in 2016 and served in various other leadership roles.

AMS provides dental and vision screening services free of charge, servicing patients from a mobile operation with certified staff and equipment.

Wayne Little, a past president of Meals on Wheels and board member for Small Miracles Therapeutic Equestrian Center, received the inaugural Outstanding Campaign Manager award. Little led the Eastman employee giving campaign, increasing participation rates, leadership and overall giving totals.

winning organization all around, year in and year out.”

Established in 1887, United Way brings communities together to spearhead positive change through volunteering and giving.

UWGK is one of nearly 1,800 chapters globally. This year, the local organization plans to invest $1.9 million into 31 member agencies and 43 programs including Big Brothers Big Sisters, the American Red Cross, Hope House, the Children’s Advocacy Center, the Salvation Army and other nonprofits.

Those seeking more information can visit www.uwaykpt.org or call (423)-378-3409.

Kingsport Mayor John Clark presented commendations to incoming UWGK Board Vice President Keith Parker and outgoing Board President Andy Wampler for exemplary community service.

“United Way is a great example of that ‘Kingsport Spirit’ that we like to talk about,” Clark said. “This organization, to me, is just a

ANDY WAMPLER AND KEITH PARKER

FRONT: CAROLINE WRIGHT, DANELLE GLASSCOCK, EMILY MERRITT BACK: LORI MILLER, BECCA SUTPHEN, SUSAN LAGUARDIA, JOY SHOUN, BERNARD BRYANT

AWARD RECIPIENTS WAYNE LITTLE, RHONDA REEVES, AND BRUCE SITES

SCOTT DAVIS AND ANDY HATFIELD

vipseenmag.com

79

Kingsport

KATHY AND BERNARD BRYANT

Leadership Giving Event KEVIN AND REBECCA REPASS

EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Tuesday, January 15th, the United Way of Greater Kingsport (UWGK) celebrated its annual Leadership Giving Event at The Social in downtown Kingsport. Attendees enjoyed dinner, drinks and a night of mingling. This event gives UWGK the opportunity to acknowledge the generosity of approximately 2,200 Leadership Givers, who share UWGK’s commitment to the community, its people, and its future. A Leadership Giver is someone who donates $500 or more to UWGK annually. These generous gifts improve the lives of over 1,400 friends, neighbors, co-workers, and community members each day.

“Our campaign theme for 2018 was United We Fight, United We Win.” United Way of Greater Kingsport helps improve lives every

JEFF AND TRISH ARNOLD

BRIAN AND JEANNIE MILLER

JEREMIAH AND ERIN CLARK

single day through member agencies, programs, and community impact initiatives. You were invited here tonight because you are a Leadership Giver and we wanted to thank you. If this is your first year to give at the Leadership level in Kingsport, welcome,” said Signature Club Chair, Bill Argabrite.

United Way of Greater Kingsport recognizes the members of three prestigious Leadership Giving Societies: the Alexis de Tocqueville Society ($10,000 and above), the Signature Club ($1,000 to $9,999), and the Initial Club ($500 to $999). The dollars raised by the UWGK stay in the Greater Kingsport community to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person.

EMILY MERRITT AND TREYANA HUGHES

DAVID AND DEBBIE TAYLOR

United Way of Greater Kingsport (UWGK) fights for the education, health, and financial stability of every person in our community. UWGK’s mission is to improve lives and their vision is a better life for all. For more information, visit www.uwaykpt.org or call 423-378-3409.

80

ROBERT AND LINDA SINKO

january/february 2019

ELAINE WASHINGTON AND TAMMYE TAYLOR

Kingsport

VISIT KINGSPORT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JUD TEAGUE

JAMES PHILLIPS UNVEILS THE FRIDAY NIGHT HEADLINER, AARON TIPPIN

Racks by the Tracks Press Conference EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

The Racks by the Tracks Festival earned its status as a Kingsport staple with sold out crowds for 10 consecutive years. To accommodate nearly 15,000 expected visitors, the annual barbecue, craft beer, wine, and music festival will be a twoday event for the first time in its 12-year history.

Tuesday, Feb. 12, representatives from Visit Kingsport and Racks by the Tracks announced changes to this year’s event, slated for May 17 and 18, including expansion of the wine tasting and the addition of a Friday night wing competition and free concert featuring headliner Aaron Tippin.

Last year, storms in the area forced Tippin to end his set after only a short time on stage. Tippin, one of the most popular country artists of the 1990s, will take the stage at 8:15 p.m. to play hits like “Kiss This” and “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio.” Partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank, organizers encourage canned food donations at the event, though the concert remains free of charge.

The Friday night “Spring Wing Fling” presented by Eastman Credit Union (ECU) begins at 5:00 p.m. and will be ticketed for 600 guests. Guests who purchase a $10 ticket will enjoy wings from nearly a dozen regional vendors on Clinchfield Street.

Saturday traditions continue with the beer and wine tasting events, music, and the SPF 10k and 5k runs. The wine tasting expands to 10 vendors this year, serving only one in previous years. Tickets for the beer and wine tastings start at $40 and include concert tickets. Organizers also offer a limited number of combo tickets for both tastings. Concert tickets are priced at $15 to see the Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute Band, The Breakfast Club 80s Tribute Band, Jake Quillen, and Doctor Ocular.

Festival proceeds go to local nonprofits like the Sullivan County Human Society, Boys and Girls Club, the Skin Cancer Foundation, and Second Harvest of Northeast Tennessee.

“They’ve contributed back [more than] $100,000 over the past 10 years to nonprofits within our community that help during the festival,” Visit Kingsport Executive Director Jud Teague said. “[This event] makes a significant impact to our community, well over $1 million in economic impact with the number of attendees that we have.”

To purchase tickets or find more information, visit RacksByTheTracks.com or visitkingsport.com.

ADAM WALTON, EASTMAN CREDIT UNION

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RHONDA CHAFIN

Kingsport THOMAS DOWDY, ED EVERETT, AND SHANE CHRISTIAN

NICOLE AUSTIN AND KRISTI HAULSEE

SULLIVAN COUNTY MAYOR RICHARD VENABLE

2019 Legislative Breakfast EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

The 2019 Regional Legislative Breakfast was held at MeadowView Resort and Conference Center, and was hosted by the chambers of commerce for Johnson City, Kingsport and Bristol. More than 30 new lawmakers were elected this year, with two from Northeast Tennessee along with new governor Bill Lee. Business leaders in Upper East Tennessee called for improved mental health care, corrections reform and a continued emphasis on workforce development. Other key topics included combatting the opioid epidemic by focusing on stopping the pattern of addiction through counseling and treatment. Regionalism and education were also brought to the table.

“All of us were already hitting the ground running for our region. It is so important we keep that momentum going. I do believe there will be some real issues come before the legislature this year,” said State Rep. Matthew Hill.

JESSICA SMITH, AMANDA BOONE, AND KINDLE HORTON

To learn more visit www.kingsportchamber.org, www.johnsoncitychamber.com, or www.bristolchamber.com

SENATOR JON LUNDBERG

FIRST BANK AND TRUST COMPANY

82

january/february 2019

NICOLE BRIGGS , KELLIE WEAVER , AND DON FENLEY

CLAY WALKER NETWORKS, AND CAROL FORD S&ME

REPRESENTATIVE MATTHEW HILL DEPUTY HOUSE SPEAKER, DANIEL POHLGEERS

Kingsport HONORABLE MENTIONS AND ORATORS

PERRY STUCKEY

LIVIA DAVIS-JEFFERIES

Eastman’s Black History Month Oratorical Contest EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

A large crowd gathered at The Eastman Lodge on Bays Mountain for their annual Black History Month Oratorical Contest on Tuesday, January 22nd. The luncheon catered by Taste Budz of Johnson City featured a delicious buffet in a festive atmosphere.

Livia Davis-Jefferies, steward for Eastman’s Inclusion and Diversity efforts, welcomed the crowd to Eastman’s sixth Black History luncheon program. For the fifth time, an oratorical contest was held as part of the program.

The oratorical contest has grown in terms of participation, quality of presentations, enthusiasm, and excitement of the attendees. Students from partner schools, as well as home school students research and write essays on the contributions by African-American and Black contributors, past and present, in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math.

GREG PERDUE OF FIRST TENNESSEE BANK

Over one hundred and sixty entries were submitted for this year’s contest. The top fifteen essays were selected by a panel of over twenty-five Eastman team members.

During the luncheon, the top five compositions were presented by the students. A panel of judges determined the first-place winner, Christine Liang. Miss Liang received a check for $1,000. While she was invited to present her essay to the community at the recently held Black History Month presentation of the off-Broadway play, “Black Angels over Tuskegee,” she was unable to attend. Greta Hibbinbotham, the secondplace winner presented her essay in Christine’s absence.

The essays presented during the luncheon were informative, creative, and inspiring.

Community partners for the event included South Central Kingsport Community Development, ETSU, Milligan, Northeast State, and premiere sponsor, First Tennessee Bank.

GRETA HIGGINBOTHAM AND CHRISTINE LIANG

ELAINE WASHINGTON AND BRAD LIFFORD MARK COX

vipseenmag.com

83

Meet Debbie & Craig Chapman STORY BY LORI BROWN PHOTO BY ANCELET PHOTOGRAPHY

S

ome of you may have noticed our ad for the upcoming Tri-Cities Race for the Cure, with the two beautiful women embracing and supporting each other. It may be obvious to some which one is fighting breast cancer, but then maybe not.

The estrogen blocker continued to work for Debbie, and by the time she was able to have her lumpectomy in November, the tumor had shrunk. After surgery, she started radiation treatment, which she has now completed.

In 2016, Debbie and Craig Chapman had just settled into retirement life, after successful careers at Eastman. They were looking forward to time together, with kids, grandkids and friends. In August of 2017, they celebrated along with their daughter Amber and son-in-law, the birth of twin grandsons. Little did they know how much more their life was going to change in the coming months.

Now we have mentioned that Debbie and her daughter Amber are both survivors. Although, Amber was diagnosed stage 3 BRCA2 positive at age 34. She has undergone mastectomy, chemo and radiation. She had 18 lymph nodes removed and 14 of the 18 tested positive. So some might think, oh there is a family history since both mother and daughter, and you would be partially correct. Most breast cancers are not caused by inherited gene mutations. About 5-10 percent of breast cancers in the U.S. are due to inherited gene mutations. Amber inherited the genetic mutation from her father Craig. Craig’s Mom died of breast cancer in 1994 after battling for seven years. Craig said he remembers at one of the appointments he accompanied his Mom, helping her complete a form about family health history. He remembers that his Mom had numerous cousins with various types of cancer, other than breast cancer. When it was determined that Amber had inherited from Craig’s side of the family, the rest of his siblings were tested and 3 of the 4 tested positive from the BRCA2 genetic mutation. Craig’s one sister was also diagnosed with breast cancer during this time. Through all of this, Craig made a conscious decision to sit down with his physician to discuss his medical family history. He has become much more proactive with his health. This is a reminder that knowledge of family history, from both the father and mother, is so important.

In March 2018, Debbie was getting ready to go to bed and when she laid down she noticed a lump. She did not mention it to anyone, and tried to get a doctor’s appointment on her own. She did not say anything to any of her family, at first, but when she was unable to secure an appointment right away, she confided in her daughter Amber. They called Amber’s doctor and were able to get an appointment for a mammogram, ultrasound, and then a biopsy within a week. Yes, they called Amber’s doctor…. You see, Amber herself had been diagnosed only a few months before with breast cancer.

Debbie’s diagnosis was stage 1 estrogen positive breast cancer and would not be receptive to chemotherapy. Since Debbie and Craig had been helping with the twins, now 7 months old, during Amber’s treatment, Debbie’s first priority was her daughter. Her doctor agreed to let her try an estrogen blocker in order to hold off on the lumpectomy surgery until Amber was done with treatment. The blocker did work, so surgery was postponed. In May, Debbie suffered 2 strokes. Because of the strokes, surgery that was scheduled for June would have to be postponed for 6 more months.

84

january/february 2019

Since Amber carried the genetic mutation, Debbie and Craig’s youngest daughter, Ashley decided to have the genetic testing and counseling in May 2018. She also tested pBRCA2, which increases her likelihood of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

special feature VIPSEEN

IN THE UNITED STATES

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the U.S., accounting for 30 percent of newly diagnosed cancers.

• Women in the U.S., have a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

• Every 2 minutes, one case of breast cancer is diagnosed in the U.S. • In 2019, more than 268,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women and more than 2,600 cases in men in the U.S. • In 2019, more than 42,000 women and men in the U.S. are expected to die from breast cancer.

• Improvements in early detection and treatment led to a 40 percent decline in breast cancer deaths in the U.S. between 1989-2016.

Throughout Ashley’s journey she would read through the material the doctors provided, and frequently visit www.Komen.org for more information. Being informed has empowered her to make the right choices for her. Both Amber and Ashley realize that they must also share this medical history with their cousins and children so each can choose how to advocate for their own health. It is also important that they realize they have choices.

Debbie, Amber, and Ashley have each had a different journey thus far, but each is a SURVIVOR. They have become closer as a family and realized that lots of THINGS are not so important. They have been each other’s cheerleaders, confidants and strength. Some might think something like this would make someone question their faith, but it has only grown stronger. They have seen God working in everything that has happened. As survivors they also realize community and family are so important.

April 13 Register online at KomenEastTN.org/TriRFTC Packet Pick Up & In person registration Dick’s Sporting Goods, KPT

Friday, April 12 10 am - 5 pm

• In the U.S., it is estimated more than 154,000 women are living with metastatic breast cancer.

• There are more than 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.

AROUND THE WORLD

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women around the world, with an estimated more than 2 million new cases recorded in 2018.

• Breast cancer is the leading cause of

cancer death in women around the world.

• Every 50 seconds, somewhere in the world, someone dies from breast cancer.

That’s more than 1,700 women and men every day.

• There are more than 6 million breast cancer survivors around the world.

Amber became a FIGHTER, choosing to fight for her two adorable, now, 17 month old twin boys.

Debbie put her child first, delaying her own treatment so that she could support Amber until her treatment was complete. Ashley is amazed by the strength she has seen in her Mom and sister. It is because of their example that she has had the strength to advocate for her own health.

Join us on Saturday, April 13 for the Tri-Cities Race as we celebrate with these amazing women, men and families and remember those that have lost their battle. This is our largest fundraiser of the year which enables us to assist women and men in the Tri-Cities community in their fight!

Want to learn more? Visit www.KomenEastTN.org or call 423.765.9313

Kingsport

BRIAN AND MELISSA RATLIFF

DEBBIE MURPHY AND CHRIS STAUB

TONY AND BETH

East Tennessee’s Annual RV & Recreation Show EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

East Tennessee’s RV and Recreation Show returned January 18-20 at MeadowView Marriot Resort and Convention Center in Kingsport, TN. The show featured RVs, Boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and more. The event featured many vendors and sponsors such as Bank of Tennessee, Bristol Motor Speedway, Eastman Credit Union, A & L RV Sales, Smith Brothers Harley Davidson, and many more. This three-day event showed guests the best of East Tennessee recreation and how to make the most of your outdoor experience.

To learn more, visit www.easttennesseervshow.com.

HARRY AND JUDY WILEY, BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY

HEIDI WOERZ, SMITH BROS HARLEY DAVIDSON

GAYLE EDMISTON, AMERICAN HOME

86

january/february 2019

MARK AND ELIZABETH LIGHT

JACOB REDMAN AND RYAN RAMEY, MEADE

MICHAEL WARREN AND TOM VANDYKE

ALEX STOVER, A & L RV SALES

Kingsport TOM BULLE AND SUE ATTEBERY

NICK KOESTERS

FRANK AND SARAH LETT

Side Effects May Include EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

It was a one-man show intended to spark a conversation about living with Parkinson’s Disease. The even also served for a way to introduce at Parkinson’s support group that intends to start in Kingsport. The night opened with the musical group Flatline performing before the play.

Side Effects May Include is an original piece written by Broadway playwright Eric Coble and author and stand-up comedian Marc Jaffe. The play focuses around the real-world experiences of Jaffe after his wife was diagnosed with the disease in 2007. The play is performed by Barter Theatre resident actor Nick Koesters.

The event was done in conjunction with Fox Insight, the foundation of television personality Michael J. Fox who has been battling Parkinson’s for several years.

FLATLINE CHRISTINE PASTRICK, STEPHANIE NANNENGA, AND TARA KIRK

Hosts and coordinator Sue Atterbury says the one thing about Parkinson’s is that each case is different, with differing symptoms, differing problems, and differing success with medical treatments.

Koesters will do several performances of the play in New York during the Barter hiatus. He says he and his wife have family that have been dealing with Parkinson’s, and this is one way to bring awareness. For more information about local support groups you can find resources at Northeast Tennessee Parkinson’s Disease support group on Facebook. \Fox Insight and The Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to meeting patient’s needs and earning supporters in the fight to cure Parkinson’s disease.

Their goal is to identify novel treatment and develop improved therapies to aid in finding a cure.

They aggressively fund research, with 88 cents of every dollar donated going to research and scientific collaborations. It is 100% patient focus with the goal of curing Parkinson’s and going out of business.

The Fox insight is an online clinical study where people with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones share information that is used to help with better treatments.

For more information on the Michael J Fox foundation visit the website at michaeljfox.org and to be a part of the insight group www.foxinsight.org.

LARA AND CHRISTY JILL AND MARK

vipseenmag.com

87

Accountable Care

Community Press Conference Regional leaders announce plans for Accountable Care Community STORY AND PHOTOS BY LEXIE LITTLE

THE ACCOUNTABLE CARE COMMUNITY INTRODUCES ITS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

M

ore than a quarter of Sullivan County adults use tobacco. Nearly 73 percent chart as overweight or obese. While indulging on southern scratch biscuits and lighting up cigarettes reflect cultural norms in the region, such habits contribute to growing trends that adversely influence health.

But community leaders plan to change those statistics.

Tuesday, Feb. 19, Healthy Kingsport, United Way of Southwest Virginia, and Ballad Health announced plans for a collaborative Accountable Care Community (ACC), the first of its kind in the region and one of only around 30 in the United States.

According to a study published in the North Carolina Medical Journal, accountable care communities are defined as organizations drawing from cross-sector stakeholders to address health from a community perspective. Research shows health outcomes correlate more directly with living, learning, and working conditions than with medical care.

The three organizations, which serve as the backbone for the ACC, set out to form the community last year, examining health needs assessments from local health departments, nonprofits, and educational institutions to gain insight into community challenges.

“We must ask ourselves, ‘What is working now?’” President and CEO of United Way of Southwest Virginia Travis Staton said. “Maybe we should consider drawing from the experiences and successes of others in our region...Already, this collaborative has built new relationships and brought numerous top executives and community leaders from organizations across the region to ask, ‘What’s working, and how do we do more of it?’”

At a press conference in the Monarch Auditorium of Bristol Regional Medical Center, the ACC officially named a leadership council to spearhead the efforts of more than 150 organizations tied to the project.

88

january/february 2019

“There are simply issues in our region that require all of our focus,” Ballad Health Vice President of Health Programs Paula Masters said. “None of us can do this alone. It takes a group effort with shared vision.”

With four main focus areas in mind – strong starts, strong youth, strong teens, and strong families – the ACC will collaborate to address four strategic priorities: tobacco use, substance abuse, obesity, and childhood resiliency.

“We believe this forms sort of a circle,” Healthy Kingsport Executive Director Kandy Childress said. “[a circle] of continued focus and continued ability to look at those population outcomes we would like to achieve, and then to go after those.”

Twenty-four community leaders from K-12 and higher education, nonprofits, businesses, and health professionals make up the leadership council. Each will work within his or her community to enact positive change through directives determined by the collective group.

“I am...extremely honored to be a part of this amazing group of likeminded, caring people who share...passion for not only the children, but for all the people and families in our community,” Director for Speedway Children’s Charities and leadership council member Claudia Byrd said. “It takes heart, experience, and resources to make the changes that will create the biggest impact. And I believe they have put together a team that can and will make this happen.”

The leadership council represents school districts like those of Kingsport and Hawkins County, Tennessee, and Smyth County, Virginia; corporations like Eastman and K-VA-T Food City; higher education institutions like Walters State Community College and Mountain Empire Community College; and health care providers like Frontier Health and Highlands Pediatrics, to name a few. The ACC intends to align resources from these organizations and other members to meet the objectives outlined by the leadership council.

The leadership council will apprise member organizations of all goals, ensuring each has a voice in processes.

special feature VIPSEEN

“We believe the education of a child is an investment in the future of that child and of the community as a whole. Strong children are a direct result of a strong community. As our communities become stronger, our children will as well.”

“We’re going to have shared measurements so that we all know collectively when we succeed,” Childress said.

“We’re going to have mutually reinforcing activities that may look different in some parts of the 21 counties, but they’re all going to be mutually reinforcing so that we’re all pushing toward the same goal, and we’re going to have constant two-way communication so that we’re all informed and we’re all aware...of all the great things that are happening, and perhaps even some things we can improve on.”

The aligned ACC recognizes a need to start with children, noting our region’s youth form the future adult community, one the organization hopes will create a healthier culture.

“We feel having public education at the table in discussing these issues is a vital component to improvement,” Smyth County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Dennis Carter said. “We believe the education of a child is an investment in the future of that child and of the community as a whole. Strong children are a direct result of a strong community. As our communities become stronger, our children will as well.”

Whether inspiration derives from school, home, or work, the ACC looks to improve lives according to its mission based in community-driven solutions.

PAULA MASTERS, TRAVIS STATON, AND KANDY CHILDRESS

“This battle has so many fronts,” Masters said. “That’s why it requires such a large region-wide effort.”

THE CHAMBER ADVANTAGE “We work with the Chamber to bring training programs to our city that will benefit our workforce.”

Lori Payne

Financial Controller, Contour Glass

Member: 12 years

More than a network.

Let the Chamber work for you.

JOIN TODAY.

(423) 392-8800 www.KingsportChamber.org/advantage

Kingsport “Cheers to Kingsport!”

YOUR KINGSPORT CHAMBER STAFF

EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY, NATHAN MAYS, AND DALE EDWARDS

The Kingsport Chamber celebrated another great year for Kingsport by offering a toast of congratulations to the model city at its Kingsport Chamber 72nd Annual Dinner.

Hosted at the MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort & Convention Center, “the Nation’s Number One Party Band” – Party on the Moon – entertained another record and sold-out crowd of more than 1,700 at “Kingsport’s Social Event of the Year!”

Eastman served as title sponsor and WJHL News Channel 11/ABC Tri-Cities was the host sponsor. Ballad Health presented the entertainment, Eastman Credit Union served as concert hall and stage sponsor, Contour Glass, East Coast Wings Grill and WorkSpace Interiors were the associate sponsors, and Food City was the printing sponsor.

The event remains the largest Chamber annual dinner in the nation.

“It was another perfect evening for the Kingsport Chamber and the extraordinary community of Kingsport,” said Kenny Lawrence, Kingsport Chamber 72nd Annual Dinner chair and WJHL News Channel 11/ABC Tri-Cities president and general manager. “The WJHL News Channel 11 and ABC Tri-Cities team were again honored to serve as the host for this incredible night…now for our twentieth consecutive time.”

The evening’s theme was “Cheers to Kingsport!” as community and business leaders showcased and celebrated another strong year of growth and accomplishments for the Kingsport community.

CEEGEE AND JEFF MCCORD

BOB FEATHERS, GOVERNOR BILL LEE , AND KINGSPORT CHAMBER PRESIDENT MILES BURDINE

“Kingsport had another incredible year of accomplishment and recognition,” said Bob Feathers, 2018 Kingsport Chamber chair and president of WorkSpace Interiors and owner of East Coast Wings Grill. “It’s amazing if you look at the list of highlights that were achieved in this community last year…all of which benefit the entire region.”

“It’s an honor to serve as the chair of this great organization,” said Lori Payne, 2019 Kingsport Chamber chair. “The Kingsport Chamber will build on a great year of achievement and continue in its efforts to support and enhance this community’s superb quality of life.”

As part of the evening’s festivities, the Kingsport Chamber celebrated a number of city developments, community projects, school highlights, and business endeavors and achievements that were accomplished or announced last year. vipseenmag.com

91

Kingsport

MILLENNIUM AUTO COLLISION AND REPAIRS ANDY DEITRICH, DENNIS PHILLIPS, BOBBIE PHILLIPS, PAL BARGER, AND STEVE LAHAIR

JULIA LOONEY AND CRAIG HALTOM

CHRIS AND DANELLE GLASSCOCK

92

january/february 2019

KAYLA AND NICK BOWEN

JENNIFER AND WARREN ADLER

Kingsport SARA DIAMOND AND JOSH SMITH

TAYLOR AND MATTHEW WOODS

VICTORIA AND LEE FISH

ANDY AND HAYLEY DIETRICH

BECKY AND ERIC DONAHUE WITH ERNIE RUMSBY

OLAN JONES & WIFE GOV BILL LEE AND WIFE, DAVID TOMITA, AND COLLETTE GEORGE

SHEILA AND RUSTY LITTLE

KEDDRAIN AND LESLEY BOWEN

JAMEY AND PAULA JACKSON

SCOTT AND VAL ROBERTSON

CHRISSY AND WESLEY IDLETTE

KIRSTEN AND RICH HALL

vipseenmag.com

93

Kingsport’s Miracle Field STORY BY MATTHEW PENIX

Throughout the nation Miracle League Field parks are being built in record numbers, a type of baseball park designed to accommodate special needs players with injury prevention ideals and movement friendly blueprints leading the way. In lieu of dusty dirt infields and grassy outfields, a Miracle League park utilizes rubberized fields for walker- and wheelchair-bound players to better run the bases as well as an overall shorter play area, an ideal way to accommodate special needs players, both youth and adults, who are stealing their way into the home plate of America’s greatest pastime.

Miracle League Field Dimensions

SIZE: 10,568 square feet playing field BASELINES: 50 feet HOME PLATE LINE TO CENTER FIELD FENCE: 127 feet BASELINE TO DUGOUT: 21 feet PITCHER’S MOUND TO HOME PLATE: 33 feet

Traditional Baseball Field Dimensions (High School, College and Pro):

SIZE: 26,000 square feet infield alone BASELINE: 90 feet HOME PLATE LINE TO CENTER FIELD FENCE: typically 300-400 feet BASELINE TO DUGOUT: 60 feet PITCHER’S MOUND TO HOME PLATE: 60 ½ feet FIELD TURF: The Miracle League teams play on a custom-designed, synthetic rubberized Turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assertive devices while helping to prevent injuries.

W

ith his black and red baseball hat turned backwards, it was easy to see the little boy’s eyes narrow, his chin square up. Grit and determination bubbled up from within. His face was steeped in it.

From his vantage point on third base, the boy in his walker could see his home plate destination down the line, a sizably closer distance than the typical 90 feet between bases on a regular baseball field.

But now, after already making his way past three other bases, inching his walker along the rubberized field with relative ease, home plate was in sight. There was no turning back.

Friends and coaches clapped and cheered. The third base coach told him to get after it.

The kid dug deep, let out a growl, and hoisted himself off the walker he had always needed to get around.

On his hands and knees, the boy kicked his body frontward, resembling a frog bouncing in stride more than a crawl. He struggled, and he strained, but with every inch forward he made a statement.

An exhausting and grueling 45 seconds later, he reached home plate, where he finally dove forward, face first and spread eagle onto home plate.

It was the first time in his life the boy traveled such distances without his walker.

Welcome to the Miracle League Field baseball park.

COMING SOON It’s these moments that make Miracle League what it is, a nationwide network of specifically designed baseball parks aimed at providing special needs players a baseball field that ‘s safe and usable. Instead of a dirt infield, for instance, the park is made of a synthetic rubberized turf matting, allowing players, like the boy

94

january/february 2019

featured in the promotional video just described, to crawl or scoot a walker or wheelchair around the park while also preventing fall injuries. The field is much smaller than a regular baseball field too, with the pitcher’s mound about 33 feet from home plate, and home plate to center is 125 feet.

And this May, officials will break ground and finish a brand new Miracle Field park in Kingsport’s Brickyard Park behind Eastman on Industry Drive. The park, the first of its kind in Northeast Tennessee, is roughly a $2 million endeavor carved out in space near where four other traditional baseball parks are now.

It’s been a long time coming, said Jud Teague, executive director of Visit Kingsport, who noticed such a park while traveling five years ago, and who immediately wanted to build a similar park locally but didn’t think the climate was right to raise funds.

So Teague, ever the patient man, bid his time. He watched as funds were raised for Centennial Park and construction of the Carousel near downtown Kingsport. Then last March, he dusted off the rolodex and got to work, calling many of the major businesses around town, and pairing up with then city officials like former Kingsport Mayor Dennis Phillips, Assistant City Manager Chris McCartt, and Kingsport Chamber CEO Miles Burdine, among others.

It went better than he ever expected. At one of his first meetings with local business leaders, Pal Barger, owner of Pal’s Sudden Service, went into the back, wrote a check on the spot, and plucked it down on the table. It was the kind of initiative that made others take note. City officials have agreed to raise certain amount of matching funds. To date, the project has raised roughly $1.5 million.

In its entirety, approximately $2.4 million is needed for project completion, a blueprint that not only calls for the rubberized field itself, but also a playground and pavilion.

INSPIRATION Spend any amount of time with Teague and his zest for this project is evident. He flicks through page after page on his MacBook in his office at the Press Building, showcasing similar Miracle League parks across the country. From Minnesota to

special feature VIPSEEN

Cincinnati, the parks seem to be everywhere – and more are built each month. And as he plays a handful of promotional videos, showing off the parks and the inspiration that’s found on the rubberized diamonds, he pauses to highlight one video.

“Here it is,” he said, pushing the computer over for a journalist to watch.

And there he is, the little boy in the black and red baseball hat turned backwards, who lets out a guttural growl before hoisting himself off the walker he uses to move, then falling on all fours, where the boy spends 45 seconds crawling to home plate amongst cheers and onlookers.

“It’s kids like this,” Teague said. “That why we’re doing this.”

But deep down, there is another, more personal reason Teague is so passionate about the project, and its one pint size ball of energy that typically steals the show wherever he goes: his name is Nicholas, a kid who bares the same name as the kid in the promo video. He’s Teague’s 11-year old son, and he has Down syndrome.

Born in 2007, the third of three kids, Nicholas has been a fighter all this life. From the moment he was born, things were dicey.

In his first 45 days, Nicholas Teague wouldn’t eat and if he did manage some sustenance, he couldn’t keep it down. Doctors weren’t sure he’d even survive.

Jud Teague pauses for a moment reliving the story.

“It was touch and go for sure,” he said.

But within the same breath Jud Teague smiles, reliving the years since then.

He and his family have stories galore about how Nicholas seems to make them smile at every turn. Although virtually non-verbal, there’s something undeniably charming about the boy.

always physically tell you what they’ve learned or that they’re listening, in many instances, deep down, they’ve heard what you said.

“It’s changed my perspective on everything,” Jud Teague said, especially hours into a bad day.

“You can have a terrible day and there he is smiling,” Jud Teague said. And you can’t help but smile too. Everybody thinks they have it bad, but when you see Nicholas, you see how blessed you actually are.”

For Jud Teague, being a parent has propelled him to look at life through his youngest child’s eyes, to see things in a different light.

“It’s created an awareness. The way you look at your life really, and the way you go about your routine. There is no routine with him.”

And thus, Jud Teague said, there is no single routine to his life either. It’s all about adapting, learning and approaching life one day at a time, thankful for the blessings he has and motivated to help others in the process.

“There aren’t any Miracle League Fields around here where Nic can get out there and really play, so he’s my motivation for doing this. I just want him, and other kids, to have a place where they can have fun and enjoy the game,” Teague said.

“Honestly, the support has been nothing short of amazing, but not unexpected when you consider which regional partners were the first to come to the table,” Teague said. “This just would not have been possible without these partners recognizing that this is more than a game. It’s about self-esteem, making new friends and being treated like any other athlete.”

To learn more about the project, buy a brick paver, dedicate a seat plague or to simply make a donation, visit www.kingsportmiraclefield.com

Jud Teague’s eldest daughter and Nicholas Teague’s sister, Anne Marie Throne, a Nashville-based lawyer, recalls a story that still makes her smile to this day.

When Nicholas Teague was about two or three-years old, the family went out to eat and he sauntered up to a stranger’s table, examining their food. He didn’t say a word. Just stared. Then, once content he knew what was on the menu, he darted to another table, to another group of strangers, and checked out the food on their table. From table to table the pint size kid walked up, looked over the food and moved on.

Nobody seemed to mind. Some even got a kick out of the curious kid. Nicholas Teague, you see, has a way of making things that may normally be out of the ordinary seem cute. He’s got a knack, charming everyone from the mayor to the mailman. It’s his entire demeanor that makes people notice. “It’s his world and we’re just living in it,” Throne said with a laugh. “He’s very funny, but also very stubborn.”

With World Down Syndrome Day approaching on March 21, a day selected because a unique triplication of the 21st chromosome which causes down syndrome, Nicholas’s family has shed some light on what its like living with a special needs child, and in part, the reason Jud Teague has so enthusiastically championed for the Miracle League park. Teague estimates it will open up a playing field for up to 3,000 special needs kids in the region, not to mention wounded veterans and adults with special needs too.

“He’s made me a better person,” Throne said of her brother. “He’s shown me an entire section of the world that I would have never knew existed.”

And despite Nicholas not being verbal, his father Jud Teague said its important to challenge kids with Down syndrome, to not sell them short. Although they may not

FISCAL SHOTS OUT OF THE PARK When massive recreational and philanthropic projects turn from an idea to reality, they often require not only community buy-in but also a signature at the bottom on a donation check. Whether it’s the crucial fiscal bunt late in the game or a walk off homerun type of check, a bevy of financial contribution is helping to bring a special needs Miracle League park to Kingsport, the first of its kind in the region, designed with both children and adults in mind. Among others, the businesses noted here for their sponsor partnerships helped drive this new park home.

Home Run Tier: • BlueCross BlueShield • Eastman • Eastman Credit Union • Niswonger Children’s Hospital Hall of Fame Tier: • Cain Rash West Architects • GRC Construction • Pal’s Sudden Service

Angels in the Outfield Tier: • Appalachian Power League Hero Tier: • Food City • Palmer Center Foundation, Inc. Team Sponsor Tier: • Barge Design Solutions • BlueRidge Properties • Chefs Pizzeria • Kingsport Chamber • Mets Foundation vipseenmag.com

95

Blountville Food City Pet Hunger Drive Check Presentation EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

As men and women flocked to grocery stores for bread and milk before predicted snow on Jan. 28, Food City representatives traveled to the Sullivan County Animal Shelter to make sure workers and volunteers possessed resources necessary to keep animals warm, sheltered, and fed.

Following its annual Pet Hunger Drive, Food City donated $91,470 total in food donations to various shelters and organizations around the region. From Nov. 28, 2018 to Jan. 1, 2019, shoppers purchased $10 pre-packaged pet food to benefit local animals. Food City selected shopper Wendy Bowery, who contributed to the drive at the Eastman Road location in Kingsport, as a grand prize winner.

The company donated $500 in her name to the organization of her choosing, the Sullivan County Animal Shelter.

“I’ve probably had 10 [shelter pets] over the years,” Bowery said. “It’s good that there’s places like this.”

The Sullivan County Animal Shelter, situated beyond the Sullivan County Sheriffs Office in Blountville, housed around 50 dogs and 65 cats the day of the presentation. Last year, shelter workers cared for an average of 72 cats and 75

dogs per day during January. Especially during winter months, shelter workers like manager Peter Hanson seek donations of blankets, towels, dry cat and dog food, and toys to care for animals who would otherwise freeze and starve on the streets. “[The donation] is going to help us out a bunch,” Hanson said. As renovations continue at the shelter, any donation helps.

Food City assisted in maintaining comfortable operations for animals through both the monetary donation and a contribution of food, toys, and cleaning supplies.

Store managers Brad Slagle, Steve Strickler, and Molly Austin represented the company and presented the donations.

“Our customers love their pets,” Strickler said. “[They] love taking care of other pets in the community...we do this to help our communities.”

Food City’s company-wide efforts benefit organizations across East Tennessee and bordering states, operating more than 130 locations in Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. The grocery company celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2018.

BRAD SLAGLE, PETER HANSON, STEVE STRICKLER, AND WENDY BOWERY

96

january/february 2019

VIPSEEN-Mar19Cover.indd 5 FC Delivers - exec woman ad 9-25x11-125.indd 1

3/4/19 12:54 PM 2/13/19 5:56 PM

We’re Ballad Health. And for the more than one million people who live in the Northeast Tennessee and Southwestern Virginia region, we’re close by and committed to providing world-class care with a human touch.

Bria Registered Nurse Mountain View Regional Hospital 3 years Laken Registered Nurse Lonesome Pine Hospital 2 years

balladhealth.org

VIPSEEN-Mar19Cover.indd 2

3/4/19 12:54 PM