Carter County Living 2020 Fall Edition by Elizabethton Star

Carter County Living ARTS SHOPPING LIVING FEATURES FOOD

FALL 2020

J.R.Campbell Silent cadences...

Lula Belle Street A heavenly calling...

Carter County Living

Fall is here and with the year that we have had, I, like many, are ready for some changes. What better time to embrace change with the changing of leaves, cooler days and nights. Kids are back in school and where would we be without Friday night football. It seems like life is starting to get somewhat back to normal. Living in an area surrounded by mountains, we should know first hand how much Fall can change the scenery surrounding us. Just like Fall, we have focused on people that are changing lives and their communities. For our cover story, we have nestled in the small community of Butler, Tennessee a school that serves as more than an educational institution. This hidden gem, Little Milligan Elementary School, is described by teachers as the heartbeat of the community...the hub if you will. At the helm of this hub is the principal, J.R. Campbell. As Campbell walks through the halls of this beloved school, he knows the names of his students, where they are from, and to them, he is a friend. On a typical day, Campbell can walk into the lunchroom where kids will chant his name. For him, he does it all for them. He seeks out remedies to whatever issues his students may be facing, whether he can solve it or find someone else who can. He not only loves his school but also his community. Our artist spotlight this issue is Jeff Snyder. When you visit Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church, the first thing that jumps out is Snyder’s

almost angelic voice that presents an invitation to those that have gathered to rise and lift their voice in song. Southern Gospel music fans will identify his voice heard over the airwaves and on television singing with some familiar groups within the

genre. Snyder doesn’t know what plans God holds for his future and what the plans may be. He only remembers a day and time that he promised God that he would do whatever the Master had in store for his life. One thing Snyder is sure of and that is that until the Lord returns, he wants to be found faithful in fulfilling his calling. To continue talking about faith, we continue with a feature on Lula Belle Street, where a lifetime of healing and a lifetime of faith go hand-in-hand. Street can’t recall a time she didn’t know the Lord. Her story begins 80 years ago in what is now underneath Watauga Lake and continues today. These are just a few amazing stories in this issue that remind us what makes Carter County what it is today, the greatest place on earth to live. We hope you enjoy this issue, and if you know of anyone that would make a great story, please let me know at delaney.scalf@elizabethton. com.

Delaney Scalf General Manager 4

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

Star Correspondents BRITTNEE NAVE DANNY BLEVINS Sports IVAN SANDERS ivan.sanders@elizabethton.com Composing ROBIN JOHNSON robin.johnson@elizabethton.com Contributing Photographers Larry N. Souders Brandon Hyde Danny Blevins

ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES

FOOD

6 Jeff Snyder

To be faithful until the end...

10 Have You Been Spotted

Check out these photos from area events

12 Upcoming events

Plan ahead for these favorite events

20 J.R. Campbell Provides leadership while marching to the beat of his own drum

26 Saucy’s Pizza Barn

13 Why Carter County

Offers a menu to fill an appetite

The Mayflower Seafood Restaurant

LIVING

30 Almond Chicken with Peaches and Roquefort

A skillet supper makes for easy entertaining

14 Lula Belle Street A heavenly calling...

18 Why I Love Carter County

22 Lance Jarrett

A man full of hunting passion

Carter County Living ARTS SHOPPING LIVING FEATURES FOOD

FALL 2020

J.R.Campbell

On the Cover

Silent cadences.

Lula Belle Street

Nestled in the hills of Tennessee runs a heartbeat. In the small community of Butler, Tennessee is a school that serves as more than an educational institution. Little Milligan Elementary School was built in the late 1940s after construction of the Watauga Dam. This hidden gem is described by teachers as the heartbeat of this community...the hub if you will. At the helm of this hub is the principal, J.R. Campbell. Campbell calls Butler home and attended the school himself as a youngster. To him, this is home.

A heavenly call

ing...

Jeff Snyder has sung with several famous touring Southern Gospel groups but now serves as the worship leader at Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church in Elizabethton.

To be faithful until the end...

Early musical calling leads Snyder through many different doors

* Story by Ivan Sanders & Photos Contributed *

or anyone that has taken time to visit Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church, one of the first things that jump out as the service opens is an almost angelic voice that comes from a gentleman who stands near the piano and presents an invitation to those that have gathered to rise and lift their voice in song. To those familiar with Southern Gospel music, it doesn’t take long to identify the voice that has been heard over the airwaves and on television singing with some familiar groups within the genre and that voice belongs to Jeff Snyder. And although not native to

Carter County, Snyder has quickly fit in as the music director at the largest churches in the county after taking over for another well-known Southern Gospel singer in Loren Harris who now sings with The Kingdom Heirs — the long-tenured Dollywood gospel singing group. Snyder was born and raised in Owensboro, Ky., which, according to Snyder, is about the size of Kingsport and is located in the western part of the state, just below Evansville, Ind. He was brought up in a good Christian home and by today’s standards, Snyder admits that his family didn’t have much but his home was loving and happy.

His parents didn’t argue in front of the children and always made sure that the children felt secure in their little home. Snyder’s father was the song leader of the church they attended and the family was always there. “It was almost like being a pastor’s kid,” Snyder admitted. “Whether it was Sunday school, Sunday morning services, Sunday evening services, Wednesday night Bible studies, Saturday night prayer meetings, revivals, or camp meetings, we were there and involved. “There was no negotiation. Since Dad was the song leader, my brothers and I were recruited to sing for services often. We had some great services in

that little Wesleyan church.” The church that the Snyder family attended was a city church so there was a lot of outreach to the local housing projects where buses or passenger vans would bring in children and some adults as well. For the young Snyder, it was a great time in his life and when he was 12 years of age, the church was in the midst of a youth revival at the church with the evangelist being a Korean gentleman who was attending Bible college in Cincinnati at the time. The evangelist presented his powerful testimony of being raised in an orphanage and being adopted by a

Christian couple in the states where he eventually gave his heart to the Lord. Snyder said at that point that even though he had been in church for much of his life, he realized that he was a spiritual orphan and ended up giving his heart to the Lord that night and in doing so told the Lord that he would do whatever He wanted the young Snyder to do. It was just a few years later in a camp meeting in Louisville, Ky., that Snyder surrendered to a call of music ministry and set his sails to prepare for that calling. In the fall of 1997, he enrolled at Kentucky Mountain Bible College and earned a degree in biblical studies and in 2001 transferred to God’s Bible School and College in Cincinnati, Ohio to study music. Snyder had been exposed to the Southern Gospel genre in the family home where there were several vinyl albums of very recognizable groups like the Kingsmen Quartet, the Bill Gaither Trio, the Imperials and many more. Having been exposed to that music, Snyder found himself falling in love with music at an early age. He reflected on how he loves the “in your face” message that Southern Gospel music offers. Snyder also likes the newer styles too, but felt like the fact that you don’t have to listen to a gospel song long before you know what the message is about is what impressed him. After college, Snyder would go to singing full time with a group called Crystal River based out of Kodak. Joining the group brought the young man to East Tennessee where he fell in love with the area and has never wanted to leave. It was during this time that Snyder found another love of his life, Melissa, while traveling with Crystal River. They met during a concert in Jonesborough. During this time, the confirmation was made to Snyder that Southern Gospel music which he enjoyed singing was a natural progression to sing in the gospel music field and fulfill the call God had on his life. Over the years, Snyder has had the privilege of touring with some of the top names in the Southern Gospel music industry. While singing with Crystal River, all the members were single at the time

so Snyder said that they would tour for weeks at a time due to not feeling obligated to rush home constantly and they had a fun time doing their tours. But according to Snyder, as life naturally progresses everyone ended up getting married and starting families which proved more difficult for the group to do a three-week tour in Florida during the winter months. He soon joined The Bowling Family which was the first time Snyder had traveled with a family group. During that time of touring with the Bowling Family, a lot of attention was garnered in the gospel music industry. “The Crabb Family had just disbanded and all eyes were on the Crabb siblings to see what they were going to do in their separate ministries,” Snyder said. “We were a new group, but Mike and Kelly were already veterans so we were able to do some bigger venues and have a busier schedule than most new groups. “Radio was very kind to us. Our freshmen album, Faith To Believe, had four #1 hits on it, which set a record at the time. The biggest song off of that recording was “Your Cries Have Awoken The Master.” They still sing it in concerts today.” After his time with the Bowling Family ended, Snyder connected with another popular family group in The Greenes, which for the singer was a dream come true. Snyder had grown up listening to the group so it was a full-circle moment for him when he received the phone call that they were extending an invitation to join the group. A devastating time came for Snyder when Tony Greene went to be with the Lord in late 2010. After Greene’s passing, Snyder retired from full-time touring. It was during his time with The Greenes, however, that one of his greatest memories was accomplished as the group had the privilege of singing at The Brooklyn Tabernacle in Brooklyn, N.Y., which was a bucket list item that he was able to check off. “I had always been a fan of their choir, but meeting Pastor Jim Cymbala and having lunch with him in his office was a pretty neat experience,” Snyder said of the experience. “We did a concert there and sang with the choir. “I will never forget singing a song

One of Jeff Snyder’s dreams would to be have his own group one day when his children are old enough to possibly travel and sing with him. Pictured are (L-R) Snyder, three-year-old Jonah, wife Melissa, eight-month-old Ruby, and seven-year-old Ezra.

Jeff Snyder belts out one of the popular songs made famous by The Greenes during a concert.

A young Jeff Snyder poises with the Mike Bowling Family along with Southern Gospel legend Dottie Rambo.

Jeff Snyder leads one of the largest choirs in Elizabethton as the worship leader at Valley Forge Freewill Baptist Church.

called “Without The Cross” and looking over my shoulder to see that big choir backing me up. It was simply amazing! “Also, it’s worth mentioning that while I was with Mike and Kelly Bowling, we did a couple of Gaither Homecoming videos and sang a lot on TBN’s Praise The Lord program, so those were really neat experiences as well.” When asked what was one of the most challenging parts of being part of a touring group, Snyder said it was definitely the time being away from one’s family. He went on to add that it seemed like everything was planned on the weekends when most gospel groups are busy touring from town to town and church to church so being out caused him to miss out on a lot of things. One thing that Snyder was most proud of was that he never had to leave his kids as he and Melissa didn’t have their first child until 2013 after he had already come off the road. Snyder had met Harris when Harris was traveling with The Perrys where they would see each other backstage or at the record table after concerts. That is where the two made the Tri-Cities connection. He knew that Harris was heavily involved with his church so he and Melissa started attending the church in 2007 where they fell in love with it. Snyder said in the early going that he was still touring so he wasn’t able to attend as much but after coming off the road they began to attend on a weekly basis and really became vested in the church. The church would have Snyder sing a lot and as a result, he began forging friendships with the people at the church. It was in the early fall of 2016 that Harris and Snyder were scheduled for a revival in Florence, S.C. During the drive to South Carolina, Harris informed Snyder about the opportunity that he was given to sing with the Kingdom Heirs, which automatically generated concern on Snyder’s part for the church since Harris was leading worship there. Snyder told Harris something interesting at this point.

“Also, I want the song to be theologically and biblically sound. Just because it sounds cool and the music moves me, doesn’t mean the words do not matter. The message matters to me more than the music itself.” As far as leading a large church as a music director, there are challenges that have to be handled just like in any other position or job. Snyder said that Valley Forge FWB was a unique place to serve because even though there is a large congregation, there is also a huge number of volunteers that help to shoulder a lot of Sunday morning’s load. There is a lot of planning that goes into the music because, according to Snyder, if you are going One of the album covers that Jeff Snyder to have a mission you better have a plan. He has a very simple philosophy when it comes to was able to be featured on with The Greenes. worship leadership. The title of the album was ‘Hallelujah’. “Don’t leave any room for the devil to get in on “I told him not to mention my name to anyone,” the service,” Snyder stated. “When you get up there, Snyder recalled about the conversation. “I was not know what you’re doing and where you’re going. interested in leading worship and singing again on a “This gives the Holy Spirit liberty to move in the regular basis. God had other plans. service. Many times, God will come in and change “Pastor Randy (Johnson), a couple of weeks later, the plan, and I love it when that happens.” was preaching on the disciples cleaning their nets, Snyder said that having a large choir really helps and Jesus coming to them and saying “launch out out when leading worship. He also said that he and into the deep.” the director of ministries, Gina Johnson, try their best “It was like the Lord was reprimanding me that to communicate with all of the musicians and choir morning, and saying ‘Jeff, you have been cleaning members on a weekly basis. your nets long enough. It’s time to launch out into Technology has made that task much easier as the deep again.’ So here I am. Four years later and with one text message, a thousand people can be still leading worship at Valley Forge. Never tell God reached at one time, which is a blessing in commuyou aren’t going to do something!” nications. Being a gospel singer and singing a song about As a side, Snyder was asked if he could sing a the Christian walk is comparable to being a preacher song with any group that had ever taken a stage to delivering the most important sermon ever preached. sing Southern Gospel who that would be and why. Snyder was asked what was the most important “I love this question,” Snyder replied. “I would thing that he tries to do when selecting music, espesay the group would definitely have to be the Happy cially for the solo project that he recently completed. Goodman Family and the song would be ‘Just Any “If a song speaks to me, I know it will speak to Day Now’. Why? Because I would get to sing with others,” Snyder said. “How am I supposed to minister Vestal!” to someone else when the song doesn’t minister to me He was also asked what it was like to work with first? So that’s a big deal for me. a character like Tony Greene, who was known to be

there was anything special he would like to do in the music industry should God open the door with health and life. Snyder shared that he would like to have his own group one day, possibly a family group with his children. “Melissa and I have three kids, Ezra (age 7), Jonah (age 3), and Ruby (8 months). I am praying that the Lord will give our children a love for Him and a love for music,” Snyder continued. “Ezra is already showing signs of a great singing voice, so I can see where the Lord is already leading in that

Jeff Snyder hamming it up with Tony Greene of The Greenes.

able to make people get on the floor and belly roll with some of his tales, especially on the Bill Gaither Homecoming videos, recalling especially one of the most requested stories from Greene which would be his Jingle Bells tale. “He was one of the funniest people I have ever known,” Snyder added. “On a serious note, Tony and I had a routine that I will always cherish.

On Sunday mornings, after John (our driver and piano player) and I would set up, Tony and I would have coffee and toast for breakfast before the others on the bus would wake up. “We would sit in the front lounge of the bus and talk about the news, politics, and spiritual things. He was a great boss to work for and I miss him every day.” In closing, Snyder was asked if

direction. I joke to my wife all the time and say that it would be a great retirement plan to travel the country on a tour bus and sing for Jesus!” But even Snyder doesn’t know what plans God holds for his future and what the plans may be. He only remembers a day and time that he promised God that he would do whatever it was that the Master had in store for his life. One thing Snyder is sure of and that is that until the Lord returns, he wants to be found faithful in fulfilling his calling.

You’ve Been

TTED!

Photos by Ivan Sanders, Brandon Hyde and Larry N. Souders

Kallista DePrimo

Judd Howser (L-R) Sophie Paulson, Cagney Bennett, and Lucy Maupin

Logan Porter

Zoey Porter

Alex Withers

Markie Isaacs

Brian Thomas

Delaney Patterson

(L-R) Hayes and Megan Ellis

You’ve Been

TTED!

Photos by Ivan Sanders, Brandon Hyde and Larry N. Souders

Patrick Street and Lou-Lou

Eddie Gray

Chris McIntosh

Kelly Greene Jr.

Heather and Kenneth Harrison with Pastor Mike Richards

Jaime and Carmen Cosme

Makayla Buckingham

Bess Allen

Kaylee Hollifield

Michael Lunsford

David and Judy McCurry

UPCOMING EVENTS Plan ahead with fun happenings across Carter County

All these events take place at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park & Roan Mountain State Park. Covid-19 has had effects on our events. Please note that all programs, events and tours require masks for all participants.

Saturday, October 3

Friday, October 9 -11

Women’s Rock Climbing Workshop - 7 p.m. - 3 p.m. - Price is $60.00 - ***NOTE*** THIS PROGRAM IS BASED OUT OF CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN STATE PARK, CROSSVILLE, TN. ALL TIMES ARE CENTRAL TIME. Event Description: - Friday we will start with a meet and greet at the Rec Lodge around 7:00 pm CST. We will cover outdoor climbing basics, including knot tying and belay technique. - Saturday we will meet at the Rec Lodge parking lot at 8:30 am CST to carpool to the Black Mountain climbing area. Once we get to Black Mountain, there is a short hike to the climbing location from the trailhead (1/2 mile). A number of top rope climbs and a 40 ft. rappel will be set up for the day. Climbs range in difficulty from beginner to intermediate/advanced. - Sunday morning we will meet back at the Rec Lodge parking lot at 8:30 am CST to carpool to the Black Mountain for another day of climbing. The day ends around 3:00 pm CST, but you are free to leave earlier as needed (please let one of the staff know if you plan to leave early).**The Black Mountain Climbing area does not have restroom facilities, please be prepared for each day. We will be practicing Leave No Trace. Age restrictions: 18 Years of Age and Older Price: $60 - instruction and gear for the weekend Accommodations for Cumberland Mountain State Park:Camping/Cabin reservations - make them online at https:// tnstateparks.com/parks/cumberlandmountain Please make your camping/cabin

reservations ahead of time.Food will not be provided during the course of this workshop. Pack your breakfast, lunch, and snacks for each day. For dinner, we encourage you to bring your own or plan to eat at the Homestead Harvest Restaurant on the park. Cancellation Deadline/Refund Policy:Participants may cancel no later than Thursday, October 1st, 5:00 PM with a 50% refund. After October 1st, 5:00 PM there will be no refunds for participant cancellation. Weather Cancellation Policy: There is no alternate date. In the event of a weather related cancellation 10/9/20 or prior we will offer a full refund. In the event of a weather related cancellation 10/9/20 or later, we will consider refunds on a case-by-case basis.

Saturday, October 10

Bird Walk - 8 a.m. - ? - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park . Meet at: Visitor Center Parking Area. Meet other birders and naturalists at Sycamore Shoals for a morning of birding during the migratory season. Autumn Harvest Festival - 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Step back in time with us on Saturday, October 10th at the Miller Farmstead from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Our Autumn Harvest Festival brings guests back into the mid 1800s with historical tours of the Farm, house, and land surrounding the area. The farmstead will be packed with historical demonstrations, games, traditional music, food, crafts, and more! Come out and support these local artists and re-enactors, or join in the fun by calling us to sign up as a vendor or re-enactor today. Vendors and artists may email their interest to Philip.Hylen@ tn.gov or contact (423)547-3947. In case of bad weather, the festival will be moved to the Visitor’s Center. If the festival will be moved, we will post it on our park Facebook page and have a sign re-directing guests from the Farmstead entrance. Meet at: Miller Farmstead

Gardening Seminar Series: Winterizing Your Garden Beds - 9:00am - 12:00pm - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park. Meet at: Park Visitor Center. The final session in our gardening seminar series will focus on winterizing your garden beds and getting ready for spring. Gardener extraordinaire, Ben Hunter, will be joining us to share his experiences & techniques for growing the garden of your dreams! Free admission!

Sunday, October 18 - November 1

Small Works Art Show - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park. Visitor Center Operating Hours. Meet at: Park Visitor Center. Reception: Sunday, October 18, 1:30 pm. Displays of 8 x 10 or smaller works by members of the Watauga Valley Art League are featured during this art event. Irish Traditional Music Session - 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. - An Irish “session” is an informal gathering of musicians who play Irish Traditional Music. It’s like a music jam, but with a set repertoire of tunes and a very specific style. Experienced Irish Traditional Musicians (melody instruments only) are welcome to join. Due to COVID-19, this event is limited to 10 total participants (Irish Musicians) and advance registration is required. CDC recommendations apply. To register, contact the program leader. The price is Free.

Saturday, October 24

Saturday, October 17

Thursday, October 29

Scary Stories at Fort Watauga - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park - 7:30 p.m. - ?. Meet at Fort Watauga. Strange things happen around All Hallows Eve, especially at

an old fort by the river. Bring the family and join us for tales of woe and terror, the weird and macabre, with a touch of wit thrown in for good measure. Don’t be afraid, we don’t think Fort Watauga at Sycamore Shoals is haunted... or is it ?!?! Saturday-Sunday, November 14-15 Autumn Heritage Living History Weekend - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Sun. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Meet at: Fort Watauga. Join the festivities at Fort Watauga as the Washington County Militia gather to celebrate recent victories in the War for Independence and give thanks for a bountiful harvest. Enjoy demonstrations of 18th century life and living history presentations.

Friday, December 4 Saturday, December 5

Christmas at the Carter Mansion - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park - 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. - Meet at: Historic John and Landon Carter Mansion 1031 Broad St. Elizabethton, TN 37643 Spend a candlelit evening in the oldest frame house in Tennessee, decorated with bright greenery for the holidays. Enjoy music, refreshments and historic interpreters acting out scenes from an 18th century Christmas. This Christmas celebration is by reservation only and space is limited. Registration will open later in the year. Please contact the park during regular operating hours for more information.

Sunday, December 6 December 16

Winterfest Art Show - Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park - Visitor Center Operating Hours. Meet at: Park Visitor Center. Opening Reception: Sunday, December 6, 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm Kick off the holidays at Sycamore Shoals! The Watauga Valley Art League exhibition and sale begins with a reception on December 6 with great opportunities for holiday shopping! Artwork from the Watauga Valley Art League will remain on display during regular park hours through December 16.

The Mayflower of Elizabethton opened its doors in September of 1986 and is now celebrating their 36th year at the Elizabethton location. Pictured left to right is Kirston Gorden, Dave Forman, Regina Amos, Kaleb Miller, Racheal Tolley, Lisa Britt, Jayla Yeager, Terry Freeman, Leann Scalf, Christine Burchett, Cody Lowe, Ben Bare, Stephen Murray, Voula Hodges, Rodney McCoy, Bobby Hodges, Harry Hatzikostopoulos and LuKing Taylor. Happy Anniversary!

Why Carter County - The Mayflower

1. What made you choose Carter County and Elizabethan for your services and business? My father, the late George Hodges, originally opened the Mayflower in Carter County in 1986. We left in 2013 but always wanted to return once we found a new location and while searching in 2018, the new owners of the Betsytowne Shopping Center were looking for us and we were excited not only to return to Carter County, but in the original spot my father had been in for over 20 years. 2. What is your purpose as a business? What do you do? We are a full service, casual family style seafood restaurant. We offer a wide variety of seafood, steaks, chicken and pastas. 3. How long have you been in business? The original Mayflower opened in Winston-Salem, N.C., in 1980. The Mayflower in Elizabethton opened in 1986. We left from 2013-2018 due to building issues and returned in November 2018. 4. What makes you different from others in the industry? What makes us unique is our seafood breader, hush puppy mix, and all the other recipes developed by the Hodges family over 40 years ago. I

learned the business from my father who bestowed upon me his years of experience and knowledge and I am blessed to be able to continue with his successful formula. 5. Are you part of a franchise or are you independent? We are an independent family chain. There are over 20 Mayflowers spread throughout Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. 6. What impact do you think your services/business will have on the Carter County Community? Mayflower has been part of Carter County since 1986 and my late father considered this his home away from home. When he was in Elizabethton he was with family. One of the best parts on returning to Carter County is hearing all the stories from guests about how they used to eat here as kids and that Mayflower was what they looked forward to after church. Again, we are blessed to be back in the Carter County community and are so thankful for the loyalty to the Mayflower from Carter County. We strive to provide the best and freshest platters with the friendliest service with a wide variety of options for everyone to enjoy!

A heavenly calling... Street’s faith leads to lifetime in nursing and care of others * Story & Photos By Brittnee Nave *

lifetime of healing and a lifetime of faith go hand-in-hand for Lula Belle Street. Street can’t recall a time she didn’t know the Lord. Her story begins 80 years ago in what is now underneath Watauga Lake. It was the beginning of autumn in the tiny, quaint town of Carden’s Bluff. Here, there was a country store, a church and a school. Street’s mother, Rhoda, and father, Albert, were parents to four children and expecting baby Lula. September 5, 1940, was like any other day as Street’s father left for work in Elizabethton at the North American Rayon that afternoon and would not be off work until 11 p.m. His wife showed no signs of labor as he departed. Hours passed and as a hard day of work came to an end, Albert and his friends decided to borrow a hunting dog and go hunting for opossums to bring meat home to their families. Albert arrived home at around 2 a.m. to a surprise… his wife in active labor. Yes, baby Lula was ready for the world. Albert hurried across the mountain to find the country doctor as his wife’s labor progressed. As Lula would have it, however, the baby beat the doctor and entered the world of her own accord. She now says this was her head start and the reason she acts the way she does. In 1943, the TVA informed Street’s family that they must move out of Carden’s Bluff. The TVA decided to flood the area completely due to drownings caused by continuous flooding by the Watauga River and this was also an opportunity to bring electricity to the area. To the mountains they went! Street and her family moved to Piney Grove, about 10 miles away, and found a farm. This new home would be a step back in time immensely by today’s standards.

Lula Belle Street made a promise to the Lord that she would be a nurse as a child and she has fulfilled that promise over and over many years later.

Lula Belle Street still proudly wears the uniform that she received after completing her nursing degree in New Jersey.

There was no electricity, no running water...and no indoor plumbing. The two-bedroom home included a path to the outdoor toilet. The home was about a mile off the main road and there were no paved roads. In Piney Grove there was a church and a school, however walking to this church was about a mile. This would be home for the next two years. Street describes that living in these mountains was hard for her mother. While her father worked, her mother was now alone with six children (they had a new baby). Her mother also worried for Bud, Street’s older brother who had epilepsy due to a head injury when he was a toddler. There was worry over him getting into the road. One day during a visit to her aunt and uncle’s house, Street’s mother spied a nice home in the area. She told them to let her know

if this ever went up for sale. She believed this place would be perfect for keeping Bud safe and also allow them to be closer to relatives. Soon, it would be their home. In December of 1945 the family moved to “Roberts Town” now known as Gap Creek Road. As she entered her school years, Street attended Hampton Elementary School. In the fifth grade, Street learned 300 Bible verses for a chance to have one free week at a Bible camp called Children’s Bible Mission in Watauga. This was her vacation. She continued this throughout school, and in her junior year she became a junior camp counselor at the Bible camp which allowed her to spend the whole summer there. In 1958, Street would become a Hampton High School alumni, and valedictorian of her graduating class. She said she had the Lord to thank for these blessings.

and

r husb to of he

a pho et holds . e r t S e ll rmy Lula Be States A d e it n in the U

“It was the Lord who had been with me all my life and helped me get those grades,” she recalled. Street had not yet chosen a college when the director of her Bible camp went to her school with the opportunity of a lifetime. He asked her if she would want to attend a Seminary College in New Jersey. She recalled being on top of the world before coming back down to the reality that she had no money for school. His response was they would find her a job. And off they went. As she left the hills she called home, Street described herself as “crying like a baby.”

d, who , Richar

Lula Be lle Stree t reflec ts

served

Upon arriving at school, Street was given a job cooking for the college. This consisted of four people total cooking for an entire college. When she wasn’t cooking and studying, Street would help the school nurse, often making special trays of food for sick students. One day, the nurse pointed out that Street should be a nurse. Street responded that she had actually made a vow to the Lord to become a nurse when she was just a small child. And so her vow came true. “It is the Lord,” said Street. “Here the Lord was helping me.”

back on a lifetim e

The nurse whisked her away to her hospital in Trenton, N.J., where Street was awarded a full scholarship. The cost…$350. As she began her studies and lived in the hospital dorms, Street could hardly wait to wear her uniform. In this uniform she wore a probie hat for six months until she earned her nurses cap. “I still feel excitement every time I put on my uniform,” she said. During her studies, Street would come home twice a year — at Christmas and Easter. On one of these visits the Lord intervened with a special report. While attending a church with

of nursin g.

her older sister, a woman came up to Street and asked if she went to school in New Jersey pointing out that Street may know her son who was also living up there. When Street returned to New Jersey, she got a call from Richard Street. Her future husband. She recalled that the pair had gone to high school together but never dated and didn’t keep in touch. After calling her, he came to her dorm, and the rest was history. The pair fell in love and visits became frequent until he was drafted into the Army. When Street returned to her beloved mountains, her beloved Richard made

Lula Belle Street looks at a photo of her and her husband, Richard, on their wedding day.

visits on his days off when stationed at Fort Bragg. The pair tied the knot on November 17, 1962. The newlyweds lived on base for one year while he finished his time in the Army before moving back home to Carter County. Street’s vow to the Lord would continue. She worked in healthcare in various roles for many years, eventually teaching others beginning in 1992. Along with her assisting in the healing of strangers, she cared for those closest to her. Street cared for her father, mother and brother until they died. Her mother suffered from Alzheimer’s, though hardly understood at the time, for 30 years. Richard, who was the only man Street has ever loved, passed in 2012. Street also took care of him. The pair have three children and eight grandchildren. As she reflects on her life, all 80 years of it, and her future the Lord is constant. Street said she has truly been blessed, and from her blessings, “it is the Lord.”

Why I Love Carter County Jarrod Ellis

Short bio: - Graduate of Elizabethton High School (‘99) - Graduate of East Tennessee State University (B.S. Elementary Education, Minor Business Management) (2006) - Founder of J’s Corner and owner/operator from 2008-2018 - Register of Deeds 2018-present

of almost 40 years has taught me what small town living and community involvement is all about. It takes a commitment to live in a small town. A person needs to do their part to ensure the history and way of life stays at a constant. From starting a business at the age of 28, then becoming part of local politics, and now raising a child, it gives me great satisfaction to know myself and family are a part of such a wonderful county. 4. Favorite time of year? Definitely Fall. Football, the beautiful weather, hunting and fishing.

1. What makes Carter County unique by comparison to other places? Carter County is such a tight knit community. No matter where I go, I always run into a smiling/welcoming face. People are always willing to lend a helping hand. Carter Countians have each others’ back.

5. First time visitors’ recommendation not to miss. Carter County has so much to offer and first time visitors must see: Watauga Lake is simply amazing, the various rivers and waterways offer great fishing and rafting. The Appalachian Trail is a must for your hikers and avid outdoorsmen. Downtown Elizabethton is so unique with great retail, restaurants and various businesses.

2. Favorite place to visit in Carter County? Watauga Lake, Roan Mountain and pretty much anywhere in the great outdoors that Carter County has to offer. 3. Living in Carter County change me in any way? Living in Carter County my entire life

Why Do You Love Carter County?

Is it the wonderful natural resources? How about the historic downtown district? Perhaps it’s the people who make up our community? Whatever the reason, we want to know why you love it here. Tell us why you love Carter County and you could be featured in an upcoming edition of Carter County Living. Just send us a message telling us why you love Carter County. You can reach us by email at news@elizabethton.com or you can mail it to 300 N. Sycamore St., Elizabethton, TN 37643. 18

Silent cadences... Campbell provides leadership while marching to the beat of his own drum * Story By Brittnee Nave & Photos by Brittnee Nave & Larry N. Souders *

estled in the hills of Tennessee runs a heartbeat. In the small community of Butler, Tennessee is a school that serves as more than an educational institution. Little Milligan Elementary School was built in the late 1940s after construction of the Watauga Dam. This hidden gem is described by teachers as the heartbeat of this community...the hub if you will. At the helm of this hub is the principal, J.R. Campbell. Campbell calls Butler home and attended the school himself as a youngster. To him, this is home. “Here, everybody is somebody,” said Campbell. “It is the best place in the world to go to school. I’m not saying it’s the best place to learn. I’m just saying that, here, there is no peer.” He explained that you could bring a new student to this school at 10 a.m. and by that afternoon they have made a friend. There aren’t really any cliques among this student body, nor are there many disciplinary problems. There is no judgement for money or the clothes you wear. Everyone is someone. The children at this school come from a tight knit, family oriented atmosphere. In this mountain school, parents and grandparents walked the same halls these students walked, their teachers taught their moms and dads. The love people have for Little Milligan runs deeper than the Watauga Lake down the road. Teachers at this institution, some putting in nearly 30 years, extend miles in their reach to teach. Some educators at this school pass by school after school as they trek over half an hour drive every morning to get here. Suzette and Ray Don Markland are a married couple of educators making this daily trek. The couple call Watauga home...and Little Milligan home too. “In reality, I would drive twice as far for half the amount of money here as anywhere else,” said Suzette Markland. Ray Don, who serves as assistant principal, has worked at the school since 1993. Many of his students have parents he also taught. Ray Don explained that for him and Suzette, while the drive may be long, it’s worth it for these kids. The bond they develop of getting to know these kids is what they believe is essential to helping them learn.

“Here, everybody is somebody.” It is the best place in the world to go to school. I’m not saying it’s the best place to learn. I’m just saying that, here, there is no peer.” —J.R. Campbell Principal

Like her coworkers, Melissa Davies drives half an hour to work, and wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s the most wonderful school I’ve ever attended, had the privilege of teaching in or been involved with,” she said. “The kids are great. They’re respectful, they listen, they do their work for the most part.” A bond from one-on-one time is what Davies believes she gives to her students, something she doesn’t know would be as strong in a larger setting. Like many at the school, she doesn’t just know the student, she knows their family. Brenda Arnold is another educator at Little Milligan who thrives in the atmosphere this little school brings. The purpose this school brings has reeled in passionate people who take pride in caring for this commu-

nity heartbeat. This was the call that brought in Tricia Cornett. Cornett is the school nurse who asked to work at the school after it was decided that Little Milligan needed a full-time nurse. “It’s a little bit different up here,” she said. “It’s very rural up here, very isolated from medical care.” Along with the beauty of this rural escape comes many having to go far for what they may need. Knowing there is a need for students, and even their families, called to Cornett. Among the faculty, two things are clear, they love their kids and they say Campbell marches to the beat of his own drum. “He does a great job of keeping this school the hub of the community,” said Davies. “This school keeps the community functioning.” This hub leader will seek out remedies to whatever issues his

students may be facing, whether he can solve it or he can find someone else who can. He not only loves his school but also his community. “It’s all about the kids,” beamed Campbell. As he walked through the halls of this beloved school, he knew the names of his students, he knew

where they were from, and to them, he is a friend. On a typical day Campbell can walk into the lunch room where kids will chant his name. For him, he does it all for them. “Our kids are great,” he said. “I’m glad the rest of the world doesn’t know about us.”

Jarrett tries to be a mentor to students and help them build a passion for hunting and fishing.

On the trail of game...

Roan Mountain’s Jarrett a man full of hunting passion

* Story By Danny Blevins & Photos by Lance Jarrett * ay the word hunting in front of Roan Mountain’s Lance Jarrett and his eyes seem to glaze

over. No, he does not have the coronavirus. Instead he has a passion for hunting that has been with him for all of his adult life. After having a conversation with him, it is easy to see that he will have that passion for as long as he can walk his cherished mountains.

miles just to try to bag a good If you can name the animal, Jarrett has probably hunted gobbler.” Jarrett started hunting at the it. “I have hunted whitetail deer, tinder age of 12 but did not kill his first deer until he was 18. mule deer, grouse, dove, duck, He readily admitted that when squirrel, elk, moose, turkey, wild hogs, and coyotes. Of all of these, he was growing up, there just wasn’t that many deer. I guess hunting turkeys is my Also coming into play was the favorite,” he said. fact that Tennessee at that time “It is so peaceful during the only offered a gun season which spring turkey hunt. Usually you are by yourself and you can walk was fairly short so Jarrett trapsed for miles looking for the gobblers. the mountains and valleys for six I guess some days I may walk 10 years without killing anything. 22

Over the next several years, he became very good at whitetail deer hunting. “I have killed dozens of smaller deer for the freezer. After a while I started hunting only large bucks and does for the freezer.” Though he developed a passion for hunting, he enjoys just being out in the nature more than taking an animal saying that his times out on the hunt are so peaceful and talking of how he enjoys watching the other

animals that cross his path. Jarrett also uses this time as a time of meditation spending hours just reading his Bible while watching the wildlife. During his time of observation, there have been several opportunities to view oddities that can only happen in the wilds of nature. “I have seen some strange stuff out deer hunting,” reflected Jarrett. “One time I watched a whitetail doe chase a bobcat through the woods. She didn’t like that cat, and she was going to let that bobcat know it. “Another time I watched as a raccoon and a doe faced each other down nose to nose. That was one of the strangest things I have ever seen.” Jarrett has not just spent time trailing game in Roan Mountain but has extended his hunts out far and wide as he has hunted over much of the United States and part of Canada. “Let’s see… I have hunted in Iowa, Kansas, Illinois, Georgia, Colorado, Alabama, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. One of the biggest bucks I ever killed I took in Elk Park, North Carolina, just a few miles from my house.” He is married and has too grown daughters, but his passion for hunting did not rub off on his daughters. Jarrett shared how he tried to entice his daughters into following in his footsteps but without much luck. His daughter, Dakota, was successful in bagging a few doe while growing up. However, once old enough to obtain her driver’s license, the end of her hunting days came as Jarrett remembered with a chuckle. “My wife understands that I really enjoy hunting and fishing and doesn’t say much about my hunting,” Jarrett added. “I did make her plan our wedding around the deer season though. “I told her we could have a church wedding if she would wait until the deer season was over. She agreed,” he stated with a grin. His father-in-law was responsible for getting Jarrett interested in bow hunting which is how he does much of his large whitetail hunting today. Bow hunting changed everything for Jarrett as he said it made hunting more enjoyable being out in the mountains during the archery season as there are more wildlife sightings to enjoy and many more deer to see. Jarrett shared a couple of brief hunts that have been forever etched in his memory. “I dove hunt a lot, and even tried duck hunting once,” he said. “I was duck hunting in South Carolina one year and we turned the boat over on a river. I lost a $1000 shotgun in that river. That was the end of my duck hunting. “I also went moose hunting one time in Alberta, Canada, where I loved seeing the wilderness and the animals. I killed a bull moose that dressed out at around 1500 pounds. It took me 30 minutes to field dress it and hours to pack it out.” Jarrett, who is a math teacher at Cloudland High School, does more with his free time than hunt. Every year he is a mentor to students and helps them develop a love for the outdoors. He has opened his home as a place where the students can come and share in fellowship and their love for the great outdoors while Jarrett can also become someone the kids can look to if they need a friend. “A few of the older kids will come to my house, and we will skeet 23

Lance Ja r his child rett has a pass ion for hood. H hunting e animals th and has has traveled t he coun at goes back t no inte o try hun ntions o ting gam f stoppin e g.

ecause unting b imes h y e k r u st ny t lly enjoy spring and ma a e r e h l in the aid that ds. Jarrett s are so peacefu the woo in s e d n o o o the w e only ht be th you mig

Lance Jarrett hunts only does and large bucks now. He said that he loves the taste of venison and tries to keep his freezer full during hunting season.

shoot and then have a wild game meal,” he said. “Some of the kids just don’t have anybody to take them fishing or hunting. I enjoy spending time with them and giving them a few hunting and fishing tips. “I was blessed with a dad

that took me hunting when he could, and I want to be there for other kids.” While Jarrett has enjoyed several great hunts, there have been a couple of elusive prey that he would like to add to his trophy bucket list.

One of those animals is a red stag and the other is an elk. He has been on a couple of elk hunts but wasn’t able to fill a tag with one. He hopes to one day be able to succeed on hunts for these two trophy animals.

Though Jarrett may dream of hunting season he understands the important things in life. “Family, home, God and country should always come first. Everything else is icing on the cake.”

Area Shopping, Dining, Entertainment & Services

This large hog was taken near the top of Roan Mountain a few years back. Jarrett stated it took hours to get it out of the woods as he had to reach out for help to drag it out.

If you would like to advertise your business or service, call: Joyce Bartlett @ 417-294-5763 25

A new facade announces the new Saucy’s Pizza Barn in the former Pizza Inn location.

Bringing a unique dining experience... Saucy’s Pizza Barn offers a menu to fill any appetite * Story By Ivan Sanders & Photos by Ivan Sanders & Contributed *

Saucy’s Pizza Barn owners Valerie Coleman-Cuddy (L) and Melody Bice (R) are excited to greet their customers as the eatery now has its doors open for business.

any have taken notice of all the busy work going on at the former Pizza Inn eatery wondering just what is going on and what happened to the long time eatery. During a time that COVID-19 resulted in the restaurant being closed for a short time, some other unforeseen circumstances took place that ended with the business becoming available. When no one stepped forward to take advantage of the franchise on the business, two familiar faces to local customers who dined at both Pizza Inn and Beef O’Brady’s

joined forces to become the newest business owners and have been in full force transforming the former Pizza Inn into Saucy’s Pizza Barn. The new owners are Valerie ColemanCuddy, who spent 28 years with Beef O’Brady’s, and Melody Bice, who had 20 years under her belt with Pizza Inn. “Obviously, COVID-19 and other things happened and Beef O’Brady’s shut down and I was offered the opportunity to come over here with Melody hiring in as the second GM working with her and we just started talking about different things,” said Coleman-Cuddy.

Kitchen manager Chris Scott prepares a fresh pizza. “My experience at Beef O’Brady’s of call the restaurant and different things 28 years and she has 20 years of Pizza Inn and I was like ‘Gosh Mel we are going to experience and we were working together be women business owners and we are and everything was rolling along and then saucy’ — at first, I said sassy and then I we had the opportunity come up that if said saucy and so we threw that around we wanted to purchase the business, not for a little bit,” Coleman-Cuddy said with the franchise, but to purchase everything a chuckle. in here if we wanted to do something and “We couldn’t decide if we wanted to we just decided ‘Hey if no one is going to put the pizza in the name or not and then renew for a Pizza Inn, why don’t we try we started thinking about remodeling and something.’” different things that we were going to do Both could have elected to continue with the restaurant with painting and all with the franchise, but by doing so they the things that we have done. would have limited some of the ideas they “We knew it was getting creative where had they felt would be met with enjoyment it was looking like a barn so that is kind of from their future customers which a what we did,” Coleman-Cuddy continued. franchise wouldn’t allow to happen. “It is kind of funny because we were first “We thought we could bring the wings tossing around Saucy Mama’s which is and other things into it but if you are with kind of a funny thing now and now we a franchise you can’t bring other things in are like thank God we didn’t call it Saucy that you want to add,” Bice confirmed. Mamas. According to Coleman-Cuddy, they “I just texted her late one night and wanted the flexibility to change up the asked her, ‘Hey Mel, how about Saucy’s menu and add different items. With the Pizza Barn?’ We like the rustic look and we buffet being a hit, the new owners said were changing the colors and the things that was a no-brainer to keep but have we were picking out and she was like ‘I also already added a variety of wings and love it!’ sandwiches. “So it stuck and if you look at our It was interesting to find out just how pizza names and if you think of a barn it’s the two came up with the new name for kind of like a pizza barn. It’s more of like a their business. farm and we tied it all in together.” “As we were sitting around like this Together, the ladies came up with the and just talking about what we would sandwiches they added to their menu with

Server Roger Fife runs a fresh pizza straight from the oven. “And ranch— most people dip their great favorites like Philly Cheesesteak, wings in Ranch but no we thought we are Philly Chicken, a Club, an Italian Sub, going to sprinkle ranch season as a dry an Italian Steak, Meatball, Chicken rub and that’s really good too. Parmesean, Turkey, and Ham & Cheese sandwiches. We also have the really mild wings for those who like mild and we have the Then the two worked on their unique specialties as Coleman-Cuddy took charge buffalo with the mild sauce.” Bice added, “We also have Sriracha of the wings and Bice handled the pizza Bourbon, BBQ Moonshine which is sweet side of the business in piecing their final with a little spice, Stinging Honey Garlic menu together. which are really good, and a Texas Pete “We thought way outside the box with rub.” chicken wings trying to come up with What makes Saucy’s Pizza Barn wings something no other restaurants had,” even better is that the wings are not cooked Coleman-Cuddy added. “Like Old Bay in oil but in an air fryer. seasoning which is so good on chicken “When Mel and I started to talk the wings.

chicken wing part, we knew we had to get a fryer in here and how were we going to do this. We thought about the hood system and installing another hood system so your cost would get bigger and bigger and bigger,” Coleman-Cuddy stated. “Our food rep guy who helped us choose our menu items, he was like I know a guy and let me bring him down to help you with measurements and stuff. So when he came down, he brought the air fryer up to us. “He started to tell us that they were in Knoxville and all over Nashville and he was like I can set you guys up to go meet with a manager of a restaurant close to here,” Coleman-Cuddy continued. “And I was like where is the closest one and he said, Pigeon Forge. So we were thinking Kingsport, Johnson City, or Bristol and he was like no you guys would be the only one around here that would have one of these air fryers. “We got in the car and went down there and they let us watch how they did things and let us try the food and instantly we liked it and came back the next day and ordered it and got it installed. It has been awesome.” Both agreed that the air fryer is much healthier because the wings are not being cooked in oil. The fryer is much like those used in home kitchens however it is a commercial-grade fryer. Saucy’s wings are not breaded and basically have the rub applied and cooked in the air fryer. What came as a surprise was the toughest call that had to be made dealt with pizzas. “The pizza was our biggest challenge coming up with the pizza dough which is Mel’s side,” said ColemanCuddy. “She’s like you are the chicken wing expert and she’s the pizza expert you know and the sandwiches we did together that just rolled off our tongues together. “But I think that was the biggest struggle was picking a good dough and a good sauce and making sure that everyone is going to like it. However, just today, I got called to a couple of tables and they were like this dough is just so much better than what they had and I was like thank you very much and we really appreciate that.” “We came up with some cute, creative names for our pizzas that’s for sure to kind of go along with the theme too. We have been getting good responses and it’s been a little crazy in here the last few days,” Bice chipped in. Some of the pizza choices include Cow-A-Bunga, The Cheesy Heifer, Wicked

Chicken, Smokin’ Bird, Farmer’s Market, Clucky Spud, Mexi Moo, and Whole Hog. Customers can also create their own special pizza from a fresh list of ingredients in small, medium, or large sizes. Also, if one is in the mood for a breakfast pizza, Saucy’s offers their own take on Sunrise Specials Breakfast Pizza made with fresh eggs, a choice of cheese, protein, and veggies. One thing the owners want to continue to do is to be active within the community by offering fundraisers which have already been taken advantage of. If anyone needs an event catered, Saucy’s Pizza Barn appreciates the opportunity to work with anyone who may be interested in having an event catered. “We have tons of catering already coming in — almost the entire month of August. We can do breakfast, lunch, and dinner and we can be creative with that. We want people just to come in and sit down and talk with us about what they need,” Coleman-Cuddy said. And while there are a lot of things still to be completed due to a small window, Bice said they will continue to work hard to make their customers’ experience memorable. “We are still a work in progress trying to get a few things done and it’s still going — it’s just going to take a little bit longer,” Bice said. “We only had a short limited space while we were closed to get some of the major things done and we are going to keep going. “Everyone has accepted the change really well and they are seeing familiar faces. I kept my staff here and that has helped a whole lot. “We are working out the kinks but everything has been going really well.” The new owners wanted to give a word of thanks to everyone for the early opening success they have experienced. “We want to thank the community for the outpouring of support. It has been overwhelming and we really appreciate it,” Coleman-Cuddy commented. “We welcome opinions and feedback from our customers.” Saucy’s Pizza Barn’s hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Breakfast pizzas can be picked up at the drive-thru beginning at 8 a.m. The lunch buffet is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. while the dinner buffet is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Currently, gloves are available that have to be used when utilizing the buffet bar due to COVID-19. The restaurant will be closed on Sundays to allow employees time with their families.

The buffet bar is filled with several of the great food items now offered by Saucy’s Pizza Barn.

A skillet supper makes for easy entertaining R

oasts and hams certainly may get a lot of fanfare for holiday dining, but chicken is a versatile food that is mild enough to be molded into whatever flavor profile cooks desire. Chicken also can be dressed up so it easily competes with other protein sources for top billing on holiday tables. Easily cooked on the stovetop in a flash, this recipe for “Almond Chicken With Peaches and Roquefort” from “125 Best Chicken Recipes” (Robert Rose) by Rose Murray can be customized and multiplied depending on the size of the crowd. While peaches may not be in season where you live during the holidays, simply substitute two small pears, which work well for fall and winter meals. Serve with crisp green beans and lemon

Almond Chicken With Peaches and Roquefort

couscous, which is easily made by adding 1⁄2 teaspoon grated lemon zest and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to warm couscous. “Almond Chicken With Peaches and Roquefort” Serves 2 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour Salt and pepper 1 egg, lightly beaten 3⁄4 cup sliced almonds 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 unpeeled peaches, sliced; or 2 small pears, cored and sliced 1⁄4 cup dry white wine or chicken stock

1⁄4 cup whipping cream 2 tablespoons Roquefort or Gorgonzola cheese 1. Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 1⁄4 inch. Dredge in flour mixed with 1⁄4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Dip each breast in egg and coat with almonds. 2. In a large skillet, heat half the oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook about 5 minutes per side, turning once, until golden and no longer pink inside. Remove to a warm platter and keep warm. 3. Add remaining oil to pan and heat over medium heat. Add peaches (or pears) and cook 1 30

minute. Stir in wine and bring to a boil; cook 3 minutes to reduce. Stir in cream, cheese and salt and pepper to taste. Cook stirring, until thickened. Spoon sauce around the chicken and serve.

Beef Roast With Dark Rum Sauce

Slow cooker meal makes holiday entertaining a breeze

he holidays wouldn’t be complete without a delicious meal to share with family and friends. A holiday roast is often the centerpiece of festive occasions. Having a go-to recipe for this classic main course makes holiday preparations that much easier. Utilizing a slow cooker to make a beef roast reduces time spent in the kitchen, affording hosts more opportunities to mingle with their guests. That’s just the idea behind this recipe for “Beef Roast With Dark Rum Sauce” from “Crock•Pot® 356 Year-Round Recipes” (Publications International, Ltd) by Crock•Pot Kitchens.

Beef Roast With Dark Rum Sauce Makes 6 servings 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 beef rump roast (about 3 pounds) 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 cup dark rum, divided 1⁄2 cup beef broth 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 whole bay leaves, broken in half 1⁄2 cup packed dark brown sugar 1⁄4 cup lime juice 31

1. In a small bowl, combine allspice, salt, pepper, and cloves. Rub spices onto all sides of roast. 2. Heat oil in skillet over medium heat until hot. Sear beef on all sides, turning as it browns. Transfer to a slow cooker. Add 1⁄2 cup rum, broth, garlic, and bay leaves. Cover; cook on low 1 hour. 3. In a small bowl, combine remaining 1⁄2 cup rum, brown sugar and lime juice, stirring well. Pour over roast. Continue cooking on low 4 to 6 hours, or until beef is fork-tender. Baste beef occasionally with sauce. 4. Remove and slice roast. Spoon sauce over beef to serve.

Fire up the grill for smoky homemade pizza

izza is beloved by people from all cultures and backgrounds. It’s certainly easy to call a favorite pizzeria and order a pie with all your favorite toppings. But homemade pizza is easier than one might imagine. Invest some time into making “The Artisan” grilled pizza from “Grilled Pizzas and Piadinas” (DK) by Craig W. Priebe with Dianne Jacob. The Artisan (Roasted Vegetables With Creamy Garlic Cheese) Makes one 12 x 12 inch pizza 1⁄4 fennel bulb, trimmed and thinly sliced, lengthwise 1⁄2 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips 1 carrot, peeled and sliced 1⁄4 inch thick on the diagonal 1⁄2 cup sliced red onions 1⁄2 cup broccoli florets 1 portobello mushroom cap, sliced 1⁄2 thick 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, roughly chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 1⁄2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 grilled pizza crust (see below) 1 tablespoon grated parmesan 1 cup shredded mozzarella 1 package boursin cheese Preheat the oven to 400F. To make the roasted vegetables, toss of all of the ingredients with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a shallow baking dish. Roast until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, about 25 minutes.

The Artisan Roasted Vegetables with Creamy Garlic Cheese

Brush the grilled side of the pizza crust with the remaining olive oil. Dust with the parmesan and sprinkle with the mozzarella. Spoon the boursin on top, without spreading it. Pile the roasted vegetables over the pizza. The grill should still be hot from grilling the crust. Cook the pizza over medium heat or indirect heat for around 5 to 8 minutes. Check it after 1 minute by gently lifting up an edge of the crust with tongs or a spatula. If it is turning dark quickly, your fire is too hot. Move the pizza around the grill to get away from the heat. When the pizza is done, the crust will be crispy. Before serving, garnish with the fennel tops. Basic Grilled Pizza Dough Makes two 12-inch crusts 3/4 cup warm water 1 packet active dry yeast (about 21⁄4 teaspoons) 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar 11/2 cups unbleached flour 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons cornmeal, prefer-

ably white, plus additional for the pan 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus 1/4 teaspoon for the bowl Pour the warm water into a small bowl or measuring cup. Add the yeast and sugar and stir until the yeast dissolves into a smooth beige color. Let it stand on your counter for about 5 minutes to prove that the yeasted water is active. A thin layer of foam will appear at the top, indicating the batch is good. Measure the flours, salt and cornmeal into a large bowl. Add the yeasted water and the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well, stirring with a strong spoon. Lightly flour a clean, dry countertop. Form a ball of dough, place it on the counter, and press down with the palm of your hand. Fold the dough over itself and press again. Continue to roll and press the dough for about 8 minutes until the dough is smooth. Add only enough flour to prevent it from sticking. Put the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium bowl. The dough will be sticky, so flour your hands

before picking it up, and place it in the bowl. Turn over several times until it is coated in oil. This prevents a crust from forming on its surface. Cover with plastic wrap, and place in a draft-free, warm place, for 2 hours, until it rises to almost double in appearance. Chill the dough in the refrigerator overnight, or for 1 hour to firm up. Since this dough is slightly sticky, chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out. Roll half of the dough out to about 12 x 12 inches. (This recipe makes two crusts) Grill the dough on an inside or outside grill that has reached around 400 F. The dough should take about 3 minutes to cook. Watch for bubbles. To check whether your crust is done, lift the underside. It should be an even light brown with brown grill marks. A charred crust adds to the flavor. Pick up the crust from the middle, using tongs, and place it on a cookie sheet. Flip it over so the grilled side is face up. This browned side becomes the top of your pizza.

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A-1 WorkForce Now Hiring! Corporate Custodian, Soldering, Machine Op, Inventory, QC, Restaurant and Clerical. $10-$14/ hr. 423-765-9400 A1workforce.com 1 Bedroom. Stove, refrigerator, water, garbage pickup. Furnished. Mini-blinds. Call 423-542-9200 or 423-440-5004 Ace Siding. Over 20yrs experience. Specializing in roof repairs & leaks. •Siding •Windows •Storm Repairs. Residential/ Commercial. Insurance claim repairs. FREE ESTIMATES!! Licenx=sed, bonded insured. Local references. Call Rocky 423-794-6145. Americourt, Now Offering Weekly & Monthly Specials! 1515 Hwy 19 E, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Call for Rates! (423)542-4466 Birkner’s Auto Sales • 241 Smalling Road • Call anytime day or night: 423-542-2798 or 423-957-0600 birknersautosalestn. com Comcare, Inc FT/PT Direct Support Staff •18+years•Clean MVR/ Drug •TB Test •FBITBI background check •Drug-Free Workplace •Excellent benefit plan Requirements: •S.S Card•Tennessee DL •Vehicle Liability

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DSP’s •Job Coaches These positions assist people with intellectual disabilities in multiple settings LPN •Must be licensed with supportive day as a Licensed Practical to day care, explore Nurse in Tennessee meaningful interests, •Knowledge of basic work and community principles and practices integrated activities, of nursing •Assists and community Direct Support Staff relationships. in the support and •Experience with care of developmental intellectual disabilities/ disabled individuals in mental health is a home environment desired but not or agency setting mandatory •Strong with particular skills in creative emphasis on medical thinking and helping needs •Starting pay people discover is $15-$19 per hour interests are highly depending on field exp desired •HS Diploma •Very low stress •12 or GED required •$9.75 hour shifts in private & up to start homes •Nurse/patient •All Shifts Available ratio never greater •35-40+ hours per than 1:3 LPNs will week •Monday-Friday function with the same and Weekend shifts duties as other agency available Direct Support Staff •Full benefits, including all direct •Excellent timecare duties within a off package •Presupport setting. This employment drug includes assistance screening required with eating, dressing, For a truly rewarding grooming, bathing, employment toileting, lifting, and experience Apply at: any other duties that Dawn of Hope 500 E. may be required to Oakland Ave Johnson assist a supported City, TN 37601 or individual • Training www.dawnofhope. program provided com and GREAT benefits package! Apply at: Franklin Place www.dawnofhope. Apartments HUD com or in person at: housing for low500 East Oakland Ave income 62 & over. Johnson City, TN 37601 Rent based on income. Monday-Friday 8amFurnished utilities/ 4pm appliances. Yardwork & maintenance NOW HIRING •Direct provided. Contact Support Professionals Cindy 423-542-2491 •Facility & Community -EHO-Handicap Based Day Program Accessible•DSP’s •Supported Living (Residential)

DOGWOOD TREE SERVICE. 24 HOUR SERVICE. Topping, removal, stumps, lot/ land clearing, bobcat, backhoe, drainage control, masonry, 50’ crane service. Insured. WE HAVE FIREWOOD! Call 423-773-0449 All Types of Residential Building New Custom Built Homes •Decks & Porches •Garages•Additions •Siding•Remodeling •Replacement Windows •Finishing Basements Call for free quote! Let’s discuss your plans & ideas! (423)444-3782 E. Luke Greene Now hiring CDL Drivers with experience and medical certificate. Located at 619 East Maple St., Johnson City, TN. No phone calls please. Hearth & Home Realty. Home Buying & Selling Made Easy. 423-543-2307 hearthnhomerealty. com Robert Delozier 423-737-0871 Hermitage Health Center is accepting applications for fulltime and part time. Persons interested can apply @hermitage healthcenter.com EOE/M/F/D/V Hillview Home Services is currently searching for passionate team members for NonMedical In-Home Care

opportunity. Please Apply at http://www. hillviewhealthcenter. com/careers or call Judy at 423-542-0417. Hillview Health & Rehab searching for LPN’s, CNA’s, & RN’s. Please Apply at http://www. hillviewhealth center.com/careers or Indeed or call Penny at 423-542-5061 Price Less Foods In Mountain City, Erwin and Johnson City, TN NOW HIRING Full/PartTime Meat Manager & Cutters Apply instore or on-line at: Houchens.com Phone: 423-727-8905 EEO CDL CLASS A DRIVERS WANTED Full-time drivers are needed for local and over-the-road hauls. Our trucks do not require ELD’s. Located in Spruce Pine, NC. Requirements: CDL Class A license, references, and clean driving record. Benefits: vacation pay, health, dental and vision insurance available. Contact 828-765-1733 Kelly Services NOW HIRING • MACHINE OPERATORS • MANUAL PRESS OPERATORS • WAREHOUSE & MAINTENANCE • ALL SHIFTS & OVERTIME 423.282.5550 www. kellyservices.com

Lynnwood Apartments Now Leasing 2 & 3 Bedrooms Utilities Included New flooring, newly renovated bathrooms Certain income restrictions apply Apply Today at: Lynnwood Apartments 1235 Bluefield Ave Elizabethton,TN or Call:423-543-2031 LYON METAL ROOFING Your Trusted Local Supplier For Over 30 Years. METAL ROOFING, METAL BUILDINGS, VINYL SIDING, VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS Installation Contractors Available Call 423-391-7788 www.lyonroofing.com

apartments available IMMEDIATELY! Call for Appointment: 828-7331546 Northwestern Regional Housing Authority - Equal Housing Opportunity Agency HOLIDAY BOOKING 15%-off SPECIAL Solution to freeing up your schedule one call away! Offering Residential & Commercial Services • Customizable Times • Reasonable Prices • Friendly • Honest • Reliable Call Us!! 423588-6019

OUTLAND ESTATE LIQUIDATORS. PROFESSIONAL HOME ESTATE SALE • Home Estate Liquidations • Mayflower Seafood Moving Liquidations Restaurant Now • Senior Downsizing Hiring Kitchen Staff, • Probate Estimates • Cooks, Prep People Business Liquidations. and a Dishwasher. Call For More Information 423-542-3667 or Apply and Upcoming Sales... in person after 12, OutlandEstate Liquidators.com 423Tuesday-Friday. 1733 Hwy 19E, Elizabethton. 342-5911 Betsytown Shopping NOW HIRING! Center Randstad, Johnson City. We are recruiting Monthly Storage in for: •General Hampton •Inside & Warehouse •Picker/ Outside •Located on Packer •Forklift Driver Hwy •Cheap rates! •Camera security •Boat •Material Handler •Machine Operator and camper storage •Assembler •Inspector. available Call 423Apply online 895-0351 for more randstadusa.com Or information call 423-854-9265. MOUNTAIN HOLLOW SLAGLE APARTMENTS Now Accepting Applications CONSTRUCTION Quality Topsoil “THE for 2BR and 3BR GOOD STUFF” or Pick Units Apply At: 100 Up Available Call or Mountain Hollow Ct. Tuesday & Friday 9am- Text: 423-895-0521 Planting soil with 3pm For Information Manure Mixture, Clay, Call: 423-542-2111 Fill and Shale also Available! 1-2BR APARTMENTS Historic Elk Park School If you/your parents’ age and income qualify, we have

Needed Direct Support Professionals and Home Managers to work with individuals with intellectual disabilities in the Kingsport/Tri-City areas. Competitive pay and benefit package. All needed training provided. Interested applicants apply at: Support Solutions Of Tennessee, 1007 W. Main Street, Greeneville, TN 423-636-8900 or online at supportsolutionsms. com. Taco John’s. Now hiring ALL positions. •Experience preferred •Competitive pay. Apply in person: 601 Broad Street Taco John’s. $1 OFF ANY BREAKFAST COMBO *1 coupon per order. TacoJohns. com. 601 Broad St, Elizabethton (423)5434999 The Courtyard. 710 E. Second Street. Elizabethton, TN 37643. 423-543-2274. Section 8. Elderly. 1 bedroom apartment. Stove, refrigerator, water & electricity provided, discounted cable TV. TDD #1-800848-0298. TN Relay Center. Equal Housing Opportunity. Timber Ridge Roofing Hiring Fulltime Roof Labor & Ground Labor. Must have transportation, be 18+ to apply, and have drivers license. WILL TRAIN! 423-8172707

NOW HIRING •Apply in person or Send resume to: Waters of Roan Highlands •146 Buck Creek Road •Roan Mountain, TN 37687 Joint Commission Certified E.O.E Looking to mow lawns in the Elizabethton/ Stoney Creek area. Free Estimates. Yards starting at $20. Call mark at 423-512-9356 Local Concrete Company Now Hiring: •Foreman •Concrete Pourer/ Finisher (some out-oftown work required) Valid Drivers License a MUST. 40+hours/ week. Paid weekly. Medical+401k after 90 days. Call 423-768-1123 Email: bookkeeperbutlerconcrete@ outlook.com We are looking for mechanically inclined individuals to learn a trade in the construction industry. Requirements: •Valid Drivers License •Must be able to pass drug test •Must be able to pass background check •Must not be afraid of heights •Must be able to lift 50lbs •Must be comfortable working off a ladder NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY- will train the right individuals. Starting pay $10 per hour Apply in person 8am-4pm: Rocky Top Garage Door 1617 Broad Street Elizabethton TN NO PHONE CALLS

APPALACHIAN PROPERTY SOLUTIONS •Foundation to roof & everything in between! •One hourly rate •no material mark-ups •professional, dependable, punctual! •We do contract work as well. No job to large or small. Our customers speak for us!! 423-765-0365 www.appalachian propertysolutions.com •Concrete, brick, block & stone masonry, restoration demo, custom design. •Patios, retaining walls, walkways, driveways, fireplaces. •Concrete demo & replace. •Excavator & Skid Steer Service 26 years experience. Call 423-431-8573 Martin EZ ROOFING Licensed • Insured Locally owned & operated! Metal/Asphalt roofing and gutter installation Now hiring dependable, exp., roofers! Call 423-213-8032 NOW HIRING: Painters and Concrete Polishing Technicians Call 423928-8351

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Carter County Living 2020 Fall Edition

Articles inside

Saucy’s Pizza Barn

Why I Love

Lance Jarrett

Upcoming events

Jeff Snyder