Progress 2024

Progress and Growth

Mike Fraley Carter County Sheriff

Joy McCray Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce Director

Daniel Estes Elizabethton City Manager

Kathy Campbell Director of Friends of Bonnie Kate

Shelly Parham Chief Executive Officer at Elizabethton/Carter County Boys and Girls Club

Courtney Bean Main Street Director

Mikki Fletcher Carter Compassion Center Director

Brian Tipton President of Roan Mountain Citizens Club

Jason Davis Sycamore Shoals State Park Manager

David Nanney Elizabethton Parks and Rec Interim Director

11½ YEARS' EXPERIENCE WITH THE ASSESSOR'S OFFICE.

EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH MAPPING AND REAPPRAISALS; CURRENTLY SERVES AS THE DEPARTMENT'S CHIEF MAPPER AND DEEDS-GREENBELT SPECIALIST.

WORKS WITH ASSESSOR OF PROPERTY AND ALL DEPARTMENTS TO ASSURE ALL PROPERTY RECORDS ARE CURRENT AND ACCURATE.

EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH COMPUTER AUTOMATED MASS APPRAISAL SOFTWARE.

EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE WITH LOCAL AND STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION.

EXPERIENCED WITH QUALIFICATIONS AND WILL NOT REQUIRE EXTENSIVE TRAINING.

EXPERIENCED STAFFI IN PLACE THAT CAN PROVIDE THE SAME PROMPT, COURTEOUS AND FRIENDLY SERVICE.

WILL ALWAYS HAVE AN OPEN-DOOR POLICY FOR ALL CARTER COUNTY CITIZENS.

ASSURE THE TAXPAYERS THAT THE ASSESSOR'S OFFICE FOLLOWS TENNESSEE DIVISION OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES IN PROPERTY APPRAISALS.

I HAVE NO OTHER BUSINESS INTEREST, NOR DO I HOLD ANY OTHER POSITIONS. I WILL BE A FULL-TIME EXPERIENCED ASSESSOR WHO CAN PROVIDE THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF OFFICE EFFICIENCY.

Joy McCray Chamber director puts focus on growth and relationships in business community

Courtney Bean Main Street director looks to honor the ‘old soul’ and ‘new stories’ of downtown Elizabethton

Daniel Estes Displays a servant’s heart model of leadership

Mikiki Fletcher

Carter Compassion Center plans life course for clients

Jason Davis Sycamore Shoals Historic Park now under new management

David Nanney

Big changes coming to city’s Parks and Recreation Department

Shelly Parham

Local Boys & Girls Club focuses on academics, safety and fun in 2024

Mike Fraley Honors legacy of Carter County Sheriff

Chamber director puts focus on growth and relationships in business community

BY LYNN J. RICHARDSON STAR CORRESPONDENT

Four years into her job as Executive Director of the Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Com merce, Joy McCray says she feels like the Cham ber has undergone a “full transformation since 2020.”

“In the height of the pandemic, Chambers had no other choice but to swing for the fence and use the time when we weren’t networking, to revamp and transform to serve our communities,” McCray said. “It was a great time for us to really take a look at what we were doing well, what we had the opportunity to change completely and what we needed to hand off to others.”

Looking forward during 2024, Mc Cray says the local Chamber is dedi cated to “growth in business, growth in leadership, growth in our community and building relationships.” To support those goals, the Chamber will host several workshops and confer ences throughout the year to “challenge and enlighten our attendees to always stretch their abilities.”

“Sometimes growing doesn’t refer to size,” McCray said. “In fact, we see a lot of businesses scale back…to really offer quality over quantity.” For other businesses, who are searching for ways to increase the quantity and add more hours to the day, the Chamber is often able to help, she says, offering ideas on streamlining a process to make it more productive and profitable.

“Any time a member reaches out, our role is to provide support and resources. We try to stay on top of the ever changing flow of technology, including one big topic last year – AI – and how businesses can utilize and adapt the use of it. We’ll say AI is here to stay and it’s

an excellent tool that is limitless, if you have creativity feeding it.”

McCray says the Chamber has seen an increase of business – particularly small businesses – come into the county in the last 24 months as well as having several newer program/events become staples for networking and Chamber Relations. “Any time we see longevity in an event or program, it’s a win for us,” she added. “We’ve made some great partnerships with other local organizations along the way as well. It’s interesting to see the many new types of businesses coming to the community – the majority by young adults and new locals who moved here in the last couple of years and wanted to start a business in Carter

McCray says she is also excited about upcoming community programs and events in 2024, the first of which is near and dear to her heart – Prepare to Care free spring and fall workshops, geared toward adults who are already or are preparing to care for their elderly parents.

“Kelly Kitchens with City of Elizabethton Parks and Recreation, Jaclyn Ketterman with Silver Angels and I developed this program out of a need we’d seen in our own lives of caring for our parents,” McCray said.

“You really don’t know what you don’t know until you’re in the thick of a crisis and it’s all overwhelming. We created this free community event to share as much information as possible with families in this same situation, to hopefully make the navigation of this gray area easier. We also will be encouraging our Chamber Members who are experts in these related fields to come out and network in our community.”

Another free program the community will see again this year is the Elizabethton Farmers Market, operated by the Elizabethton Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The Foundation is the Chamber’s 501 (c) (3) created in 2021 for the purpose of supporting the community with programs for community education, sustainabil-

Joy McCray Executive Director Elizabethton/Carter County Chamber of Commerce

ity in business, and business leadership.

“Donica Krebs, Market Manager, handles all aspects of the market, and this year, thanks to Donica, support from the United Way and a sponsorship from Northeast Community Credit Union, the Farmers Market will be able to accept SNAP/ EBT cards for those who want to buy locally-grown produce and goods,” McCray said. The new season will begin in May, Tuesdays from 4-7 p.m., at Covered Bridge Park.

Free workshops will also be offered throughout the year for small businesses that are just getting started and need more information on specific topics – part of the Chamber’s Business Retention Program. “This is the way we reach out to our community members who have big dreams of becoming an entrepreneur, to our new businesses that need help getting integrated into our community, and to current business owners who just want to know more about a topic,” McCray said. “Last year we covered Marketing and Branding, Small Business and Social Media, Cybersecurity, Bookkeeping and Payroll, and more.

“In the long run, it’s all about relationships with us,” McCray said. “Being in a small town, you’d think it’d be easy to know everyone and what everyone is up to, but it’s tough. We spend the majority of our time just talking to our members, asking them what’s new with their businesses, who they need to be connected with and how we can help.”

“We try to promote our members as much as possible, especially in times of celebration,” she added. “A lot of people don’t like to toot their own horn, so we are happy to toot it for them and celebrate them.”

McCray says the staff is constantly planning year-round networking opportunities for Chamber members, events that she says provide the best way to stay engaged throughout the year.

“We have also spent a lot of time over the years building partnerships with other organizations and those are just as important to us as our members,” she added. “We continue to grow with collaborations with several agencies and organizations in our community. Our goal for 2024 and every year beyond, is to continue building relationships.”

Courtney Bean Main Street Program Director

BY LYNN J. RICHARDSON STAR CORRESPONDENT

Now in her fourth year as Main Street Director for the City of Elizabethton, Courtney Bean says she is excited for the future of the downtown district and happy with what has been accomplished so far.

Looking ahead, Bean says the local Main Street program will do a deep dive into an “Old Soul New Stories” theme and will focus on bringing new restaurants, more public art and pet-friendly amenities to downtown Elizabethton.

The Memphis native came to East Tennessee 20 years ago, attending Maryville College and then Tusculum College, obtaining her master’s degree in strategic communications from Westminster College in Salt Lake City, Utah.

She has put her education and experience to good use, building the Main Street program from the ground up, with the help of the Main Street Board and support from the City of Elizabethton staff. She serves as a “conduit and connection” between the city, downtown businesses, and the community, working to elevate and grow downtown as an active and vibrant district and mountain recreation community.

The Main Street program is built on four points – Promotion, Organization, Economic Vitality, and Design – and Bean says working in each of those points will help achieve the program’s goals. The organization continually focuses on transformational strategies, creating an annual work plan each year based on community feedback, downtown data, and board direction.

Bean says she loves collaborating with business owners to showcase downtown, and feels “lucky” to work with a supportive team. “I enjoy brainstorming and getting creative with our team, as we tweak events and create fun campaigns. I love when I see visitors experiencing our amazing downtown or locals discovering something new. This work can be hard and exhausting at times, but it is exactly where I want to be because of the people and the work we get to do together.”

The Main Street Program has developed quickly, and that requires constantly adjusting

Main Street director looks to honor the ‘old soul’ and ‘new stories’ of downtown Elizabethton

work plans each year to keep up with the growth, Bean says. “This has been no easy feat, but…I am proud to showcase where we are today – in only a short amount of time. This makes me excited for our future and the way we can elevate our downtown district together as a community.”

The program has received a number of grants that have helped enhance the downtown’s appeal. So far, Elizabethton’s Main Street has received two mural grants from the TN Arts Commission that will be installed by June 2024. Another application for a third mural has also been completed for the next fiscal year. Additionally, the City of Elizabethton and Main Street partnered, landing three grants from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.

“We received a Placemaker’s Grant in 2020 to add umbrellas, additional tables, and planters to our downtown breezeways, as well as two rounds of Downtown Improvement Grants that support façade renovations for business owners,” Bean said. “These grants have been amazing resources to elevate our downtown district and support our thriving and successful small businesses.”

This year will be especially exciting as Elizabethton’s Main Street program is launching a new downtown tagline, “Old Soul New Stories.”

“This tagline is such a beautiful description of our downtown,” Bean said. “We have an old soul downtown, from the feeling of welcomeness to the slight nods of the past embedded through the district. Many community members have fond memories of coming downtown as a child and experiencing the bustling district.

“Newcomers can still connect with the quaint atmosphere that gives the old soul vibes. At the same time, we have so many new stories waiting to be told,” Bean said. “Whether it’s new businesses opening their doors, families biking downtown, established businesses celebrating anniversaries, or friends connecting over a meal, downtown is full of new opportunities. These new stories are what we are excited to look forward to, as we continue to honor our past and carry on the old soul feeling of our downtown.”

“We encourage everyone to find out what their “Old Soul New Stories” connection with downtown looks like, so stay tuned this year as we unfold ways to connect with downtown,” Bean added. “We encourage everyone to discover their own stories.”

Bean encourages anyone who is interested in getting involved in these initiatives and who wants to support downtown to become a Main Street member. Membership is open to residents and businesses, regardless of location. Membership fees are annual and range from $50 for residents to $120 starting price for small businesses. To learn more about membership, go to https://mainstreetelizabethton.com/get-involved/.

HEARING AIDS and BALANCE TESTING

Estes displays a servant’s heart model of leadership

BY IVAN SANDERS STAR CORRESPONDENT

“True leadership is servant leadership. Leaders put the interests of others ahead of their own and look to add value by serving them and meeting their greatest needs.” — Josh Axe

Since Daniel Estes arrived almost six years ago, the City of Elizabethton has witnessed a season of growth under his leadership as Estes has taken the vision of the Elizabethton City Council and meticulously served the Council in meeting many of the goals laid out before him while supporting a staff of nearly 300 through the many twists and turns that have came with each project.

Estes, along with his wife and children, came to Elizabethton after serving as an Assistant Town Administrator for the Town of Collierville not looking for accolades but with a servant mentality that has helped Elizabethton to grow and continue growing with many more projects still awaiting their turn on the drawing board.

In his role as the Elizabethton City Manager, Estes helps to manage a budget of $100 million for Elizabethton and ensures that his staff continues to be good stewards of the budget for the betterment of residents that receive services from the city.

“I am a manager of managers.

Photo Contributed

Daniel Estes with his family – wife Audre, daughter Aralyn being held by Audre, Kahlan in center, and Hadlyn being held by Estes.

Success for the city government and for me is driven by how successful our city departments are. I strive to do whatever I can to support our departments’ efforts to execute on the City Council’s vision and priorities,” Estes said in describing his duties.

During the past six years, Estes’ staff has worked and received the DIG grant two times which allows businesses to improve the outward look of their storefronts by awarding grants of up to a maximum of $50,000 if they are selected through an application process by an independent board. The first grant was for $150,000 while the second grant totaled $300,000.

Also, the electric system changed out all meters of their customers and replaced them with AMI meters which allow the customers to have a better overview of their usage and reports outages automatically. The Water Resource Department will also be changing out customer meters with new AMI meters which will quickly detect water leaks and help the city identify loss of water areas.

Other items are the implementation of a new SmartGov app which allows contractors to apply for permits easily online. The City of Elizabethton website has also been redesigned to be more contemporary and up to date while also enhancing a social media presence.

An Elizabethton City newsletter is now published monthly while Covered Bridge Park has seen performers such as Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers as well as Ricky Skaggs, Carson Peters, and Colton Dixon grace the stage thanks to the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department under Estes.

And no one will forget the Evan Carter Parade that Estes helped to get organized in a matter of a few short days to honor the World Series Champion who hails from Elizabethton.

As a new year has rolled around, Estes has his eyes overseeing a vast array of new projects that the City Council has deemed as vital for the future of Elizabethton.

The city recently took over management of the Elizabethton Golf Course from Hampton Golf and proceeded to hire a new staff and general manager to help elevate the golf course back to where it once was as one of the premier golf courses in Northeast Tennessee.

Also, thanks to the wonderful support of the Tetrick family, the city recently closed on the former Franklin Fitness Center and will begin a transformation of turning the building into a new Parks and Recreation facility that will benefit the community by offering various opportunities for families.

Contractors will soon begin renovation on the Bonnie Kate Theater to restore the prominent city landmark back to its glory days.

Other notable projects will be the installation of heaters and a remodel at the Franklin Pool and the repaving of West G Street with the completion of the Elk Avenue and Highway 91 TDOT projects, and a new automated garbage truck.

“We will always look to provide a high level of service to the public while being good stewards of the budget,” said Estes. “We will continue to seek for growth opportunities for the city which will enhance services to our residents and visitors alike.”

Fraley’s service honors legacy of Carter County Sheriff

BY IVAN SANDERS STAR CORRESPONDENT

For Carter County Sheriff Mike Fraley, putting on the badge and carrying the title of sheriff is more than just a job – it means representing the long, honored legacy of walking in the illustrious footsteps of men who have been imputed the title since Nathaniel Taylor was named the first sheriff in 1796.

Fraley continues that legacy after following in the footsteps of his dad into a career of law enforcement starting with the Carter County Sheriff’s Office in May of 1989.

“The Carter County Sheriff’s Office is entrusted with the sacred duty of serving and protecting our community by keeping the peace, enforcing laws, arresting offenders, and housing prisoners,” said Fraley. “I am deeply honored to continue the legacy of the Carter County Sheriff’s Office.”

“I am deeply honored to continue the legacy of the Carter County Sheriff’s Office.”

—Mike Fraley Sheriff

Since taking over the office of sheriff on Sept. 1, 2022, Fraley has worked through several significant obstacles – most notably a critical staffing shortage and the potential for the state to revoke the certification of the jail.

He, along with his staff, diligently worked to navigate the obstacles by making needed improvements to the operation of the jail aided by the commitment demonstrated by the Carter County Commission in approving a $5 per hour pay increase in November of 2022.

“We began to see the fruits of that labor this past year as we have been able to better retain our existing employees as well as recruit both new and experienced officers to our ranks,” said Fraley. “Our department is now almost at full staffing level within all our divisions.”

Fraley has been able to fulfill many of the promises of his campaign beginning with

the restructuring of the department which has allowed for the increase in the number of officers patrolling the county without creating a cost for new positions.

This was significant to Fraley because historically dating back to the 1980s, there were only three to four officers on a patrol shift to cover the entirety of the county. When the most recent group of graduates from the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy finishes post-academy field training, there will be six certified deputies per shift.

With the addition of the patrol officers to the shifts, public safety will improve as well as officer safety while response times will decrease for calls for service. The visibility will also serve as a deterrent to crime as well.

Full time, certified School Resource Officers are now stationed at every county school.

Sheriff Fraley added that with the significant improvements at the detention center, the jail went from nearly losing their jail certification at the end of 2022 to passing jail inspection by the state in June of 2023 with zero deficiencies. It was the first time in the history of the department that the jail received a perfect score on the annual inspection by the Tennessee Corrections Institute.

As a result, Captain Matt Patterson was named the Jail Administrator of the Year for the State of Tennessee and Sergeant Steve Tipton was selected as the Correction Officer of the Year for the state.

Other noted accomplishments were:

• A Transport Division which handles the transportation of inmates to and from court appearances and medical appointments as well as picking up individuals arrested in other jurisdictions on Carter County warrants.

• Regained the federal inmate contract which will help ease the burden on the county for the jail bond note and will also bring additional revenue to the department

File Photo

Carter County Sheriff Mike Fraley has accomplished much in his short time as sheriff. His desire is to add to the long legacy that others have created since the first sheriff took office in 1796.

to ease the burden on the county budget.

• Secured just over $100,000 in grant funding through the Governor’s Violent Crime Intervention Fund grant program with no matching funds required from the county to purchase equipment and specialized training to improve the department’s ability to investigate and prosecute violent criminal offenses.

• The purchase of a training simulator which allows for training and preparing officers for real-world scenarios to improve their skills and responses.

Another key accomplishment is the work on narcotics investigations and enforcement in the community.

“In the past year, we have arrested four individuals and charged them with murder in connection with trafficking narcotics that lead to overdose deaths in our community,” said Fraley. “We will continue to fight the flow of drugs in our community and prosecute those who choose to traffic in drugs.”

Fraley has lofty goals for 2024 and beyond including putting more officers on the streets patrolling the community going possibly from the current number of six officers per shift to eight.

The sheriff is also working on a plan to divide the county from three “zones” for patrol response to four zones which will help improve response time for service calls. He is working to have this goal implemented as soon as possible.

Granting funding will also continue to be pursued to help improve equipment and training for officers to avoid creating additional burden on the taxpayers.

“Pursuing grant funding where available will allow us to update our current equipment, purchase new equipment that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive within the confines of the county budget, and provide our officers with highly specialized training to allow them to perform their duties to the best of their ability,” said Fraley.

When asked what he sees as the single most important goal for the new year would be, it boiled down to maintaining the public trust.

“Our most important duty is to provide our community with the best possible sheriff’s office we can while fulfilling our duties to preserve the peace, enforce the laws, arrest offenders, and house prisoners,” said Fraley. “We are entrusted to be good stewards of public funds and operate with honesty and transparency. Maintaining the public trust while performing our duties is the most important goal we have each year.”

BY LYNN J. RICHARDSON STAR CORRESPONDENT

DDramatic renovations ahead for historic Bonnie Kate Theater in Elizabethton

ramatic and exciting changes are about to get underway at the historic Bonnie Kate Theater in Elizabethton, according to Friends of the Bonnie Kate president, Kathy Campbell.

“I’m so excited and honored to serve as the President of the FOBK,” Campbell said. “This is an exciting time for this beautiful old theater, and this group – a 501.c.3 non-profit organization – is working hard to revitalize and renovate the 100-year-old building while also providing events and programming for our community.”

While much work has already been completed – on the roof, on the infrastructure and some on the outside – it may not be obvious to the general public.

website at www.BonnieKate.org to see the lineup of movies and events,” Campbell added.

Other well-known performers and groups have graced the Bonnie Kate Theater stage including Justin Stanton and Carson Peters, Bill Perkins, Jason DeCristofaro, Will Boyd, ETSU Jazz Ensemble, Tri-Cities Jazz Orchestra, Jonesborough Rhythm Express, Samantha Gray, Stemwinder, Impaladors, Preston Benfield, Nathan Hardin, and several others.

Many live events were featured this past year: Ben Geraud’s Magic Show, Watts Dance Recital, East Tennessee Ballet Recital: “An Afternoon of Dance,” Tennessee Songwriter’s Competition Initial Round, and a community town hall meeting by Representative Diana Harshbarger.

But later this year, the theater will close for several months while it undergoes a complete renovation of its auditorium, and there are also plans for a beautiful new marquee.

Campbell, who retired as CEO of Northeast Community Credit Union in 2017, quickly became an active volunteer at the theater. “Our credit union has always been heavily committed to helping throughout our communities, so it has always been important to me to give back whenever I have the opportunity to help in any way,” she added. “Our community is so fortunate to have the historic Bonnie Kate Theater still standing when many other old theaters are being demolished.”

Several grants have helped to support the BK programming and the building renovations. Some of the grants have included Tennessee Arts Commission grants and East Tennessee Foundation grants.

The FOBK is tasked with planning and implementing activities at the theater, raising money to help in the restoration of the building, volunteering at events, and promoting and marketing the Bonnie Kate Theater throughout our region. The organization and its vol unteers have worked very hard, Campbell says, and it shows, as the theater has continued to thrive in the midst of the ongoing renovations, continuously host ing numerous musical and live performances.

“Over the past couple of years, we have accom plished so much,” Campbell added. “We have in troduced the newly-formed Bonnie Kate Community Theater group to the region and they have staged several performances including ‘Arsenic and Old Lace,’ ‘Seussi cal The Musical, and Reader’s Theater events: Memory and a Halloween Variety Show. The BKCT has also participated in local parades, downtown activities and conducted an eight-week youth and teen theater camp culminating in a stage performance entitled ‘From Betsy to Broadway’.”

The Bonnie Kate Theater has also hosted musi cal performances, concerts, films, and town hall forums and events, making the theater a multi-use event center for the community.

The theater cinema series began with “Classic Movie Nights” last year, screening classic films two nights a week.

During October the Bonnie Kate Theater showcased “Monster Fest,” showing classic horror movies; there were also holiday movies in December and other cult favorites featured in the following months.

“The FOBK plans to continue the film series in 2024 so stayed tuned and visit our

“The grant we are most appreciative of at this time is the Appalachian Regional Commission grant with a 30% match from the City of Elizabethton to be used for renovating the theater’s auditorium,” Campbell said.

“We are so excited as we enter into 2024 as we will be completing and obtaining final approval to begin the renovation project which will include renovating the ceiling, ductwork, curtains, floor, and improved lighting, etc.”

“The FOBK will also begin a ‘Leave a Legacy – Save a Seat’ campaign, giving our community the opportunity to honor or memorialize someone by purchasing a seat plaque to be installed on the new theater “Businesses will have an opportunity to show their support for the community they serve by purchas -

The FOBK is applying for the Downtown Improvement Grant through the City of Elizabethton, asking for assistance with purchasing the new theater marquee, and will continue to apply for TAC and other grants to assist with programming and theater renovations.

“When the theater is closed for renovations, we won’t let our arts patrons down; we plan to provide artistic performances and events at other venues throughout our community,” Campbell said. “We are planning a full season of performances and programs to entertain and delight our community, and we will soon offer sponsorships to those who love and support the arts and the Bonnie Kate Theater.

“Our single most important goal for the immediate future is to accomplish the renovation work in the auditorium through grant funding and local community support,” Campbell added.

“We will continue to develop the Bonnie Kate Community Theater and other programming. Hopefully, this will result in ever-increasing attendance at Bonnie Kate events as we work to become a ‘destination’ for everyone who lives and works here and who visits our community.”

For more information concerning the Bonnie Kate Theater, please go to www.BonnieKate.org

Kathy Campbell, President Friends of the Bonnie Kate

Carter Compassion Center plans life course for clients

BY BUZZ TREXLER STAR CORRESPONDENT

Breaking the cycle of multigenerational poverty takes more than thoughts and prayers, and in the coming year Carter Compassion Center is taking another step forward as it works to make a difference in the community.

“We are planning an eight- to 12-week course that will help our clients in all areas of their lives,” said Brandon Young, board president. “These courses will be free and open to everyone hoping to make needful changes in their lives.” The classes will address stress management, health care, budgeting, and other topics.

“We want to provide clients with tools for their toolbox all while coordinating services and creating an action plan for success,” said Young. “These clients will also be matched with a mentor who will assist them throughout the process. We know that education is key to helping our community progress.”

Young also serves as principal at Valley Forge Elementary School and pastor at Harmony Free Will Baptist Church. “All my work is connected because I love people, and I am passionate about helping those who struggle to find a solution,” he said. “I have also connected myself to like-minded individuals who want to make an impact and difference in our community. I am surrounded by amazing people every day.”

Carter Compassion Center

Mikki Fletcher at her desk at Carter Compassion Center

While the roots of poverty in Upper East Tennessee often go back generations, Carter Compassion Center is young: The center grew out of a 2019 Carter County Commission task force on poverty and homelessness and is housed in the former ElizabethtonCarter County Chamber of Commerce building at 500 US Highway 19E. The organization leases the building from the city for $1 a year. Much of the first year’s funding – primarily from TVA and Elizabethton Electric Department grants – went toward repairing and updating the building, which officially opened on Oct. 2, 2022.

“Since that time, we have had over 900 volunteer service hours and engaged 150 clients,” Young said. “We are making a difference in our community by empowering individuals to break the cycle of multi-generational poverty.”

Young said the center has the largest volunteer force since opening but continues to seek others who are “passionate about helping others pulverize poverty and empower families to take full control of their finances.”

“We would love to partner with our faith-based community as well as other secular non-profits,” Young said.

Mikki Fletcher, who serves as student support coordinator at Carter

County Schools, joined the team as the center’s director last fall. She is a 1985 graduate of Hampton High School and a 1989 graduate of East Tennessee State University, where she studied psychology, sociology, and business management. Fletcher also studied criminal justice at Middle Tennessee State University and previously worked with the Tennessee Department of Children Services.

“I have worked with at-risk youth and families for more than thirty years,” Fletcher said. “My goal is lasting positive change and permanency, rather than a quick fix, Band-Aid solution, by teaching and mentoring families to problem-solve and develop resilience and confidence for lifelong success.”

Fletcher and Young agree that staffing and grants are important to achieving the goal of breaking the cycle of poverty. Young said the center’s client population is increasing daily and the center is going to need additional volunteers and staff to handle the influx.

“Our No. 1 priority and goal is ensuring that we are providing our clients with the resources and support to break the cycle,” Young said, but the center needs “a more robust staff.” It is getting help from East Tennes -

see State University students who are working on a grant proposal to secure additional funding that would include the eight-week life-skills course.

Meanwhile, Fletcher said the center would like to tap into a talent pool to build for the future.

“I would also like to have local high school seniors choose Carter Compassion Center as a location to complete community service work for

TNPromise, and area college students (particularly in social work) to choose the center for internships,” she said.

“The need in Carter County is tremendous, but together, we can make a difference.”

“Those interested in supporting the center financially or volunteering can call (423) 930-3777. To find out more, go online at www.cartercompassion. org.

File Photo

Brandon Young,Board President of Carter Compassion Center.

Historic park now ‘under new management’

BY LYNN J. RICHARDSON STAR CORRESPONDENT

Sycamore Shoals Historic Park in Elizabethton is under new management and park manager Jason C. Davis couldn’t be more excited. It is a very special place to him – for many reasons.

Davis was born and raised in Crossville, Tenn., where he developed a love of the outdoors and a passion for American History. He moved to Northeast Tennessee where he attended East Tennessee State University and studied Park and Recreation Management.

“The first time I came to Sycamore Shoals was on a date with a girl and fell in love with her and the park (in that order) and have been loyal to both ever since,” Davis said. “So when I got the opportunity to serve as a Seasonal Interpretive Ranger at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park for two summers, it was a perfect fit.”

Davis went on to graduate from ETSU with a Bachelor of Science in Sport and Leisure Management and a Minor in Environmental Studies in 2008 and was then hired as a Tennessee State Park Ranger at Sycamore Shoals.

“I served in that capacity for fifteen years and then most recently became the new Park Manager of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in July of 2023. Our family is so blessed to be a part of this community and so many folks have had such a tremendous impact on who I am as

Jason C. Davis, who is now Sycamore Shoals Historic Park Manager, back in 2008, when he became a Tennessee State Park Ranger at Sycamore Shoals. (Reprinted with permission from the Crossville-Chronicle)

a person.”

While Davis has already invested many years working at the park, he says he hopes his best accomplishments are yet to be seen. “My greatest passion is to inspire stewardship of the park and the special story we tell, but most of all to instill within younger generations a pride in their heritage – a connection to their forefathers that encourages them to overcome whatever challenges they face in life, the pioneering spirit to brave the unknown, and the courage to face adversity.

By instilling the pride and knowledge of their forefathers, Davis says he also hopes it will help young people grow up having compassion to help their neighbor in need, and the resolve to uphold the freedoms they have as Americans.

“One day our children will bear the responsibility of preserving and protecting this park and its history, but until then, it is up to us to show them how,” he added.

Davis listed the initiation of preservation efforts of the John and Landon Carter Mansion as one of the major goals for the park team. The Carter Mansion is the oldest frame house in the entire State of Tennessee, built between 1775 and 1780. He also noted that Carter County was named after Landon Carter.

“Both John Carter and his son Landon made significant contributions to the community as well as the founding of Tennessee,” Davis said. “John Carter was a member of the Watauga Association which was the government that was formed right here in this community in 1772. This democratic government was created before America even became a nation, making Elizabethton quite literally the birthplace of Liberty!

“The single most important goal of the park staff and our Friends Group is the same each and every year: to share the unique history of Sycamore Shoals with everyone possible and to make this park a place that the community can be proud of.”

A little about Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park: (tnstateparks.com)

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park protects the land that was the location of several important historical events that occurred in the late 18th century. Leaving the English colonies, settlers began arriving along the Watauga Old Fields, in search of a new life on what was Cherokee land. John Carter, one of the primary political, military and business leaders of this era, and his son Landon, built a home, the Carter Mansion, three miles from Sycamore Shoals. This structure is the oldest standing frame house in Tennessee and dates back to the mid to late 1770s.

In 1772, leaders in the settlement came together to establish “the first free and independent community on the continent,” four years prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Three years later, the largest private real estate transaction on our continent, the Transylvania Purchase, took place at this site, when Judge Richard Henderson negotiated an agreement with the Cherokee leaders. In reaction to this event, Fort Watauga was constructed in 1776 to protect the settlers from Cherokee attack.

On September 25, 1780, Sycamore Shoals became the muster site of the Overmountain Men, who set out to find British Major Patrick Ferguson, who had threatened to “hang your leaders and lay waste to your country with fire and sword.” The Overmountain Men defeated Ferguson in just over an hour in the epic battle of King’s Mountain. Many historians believe that the actions of these men at Sycamore Shoals turned the tide of the American Revolution, and saved America from British rule and control.

Sycamore Shoals became a state park in 1976. The park’s visitor center houses interpretive exhibits highlighting the history of this time, a bookstore and gift shop, and park information. Located behind the visitor center is a reconstruction of the 18th century Fort Watauga, now the site of educational programs and musters presented by the Washington County Regiment of North Carolina Militia.

Jason C. Davis became the park manager of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in July 2023.

Roan Mountain Citizens Club continues to serve, preserve village

BY BUZZ TREXLER STAR CORRESPONDENT

ROAN MOUNTAIN – It’s been said that it takes a village to raise a child, but for more than 77 years a group of citizens has been working to promote and preserve the history of a village for the future of its children – and the work continues today.

“The Roan Mountain Citizens Club was established in 1946 and since its beginning has continued to be a driving force in the Roan Mountain community,” said club President Brian Tipton. “The citizens club has been instrumental in helping to promote the Roan Mountain area and stimulate its development.

“Roan Mountain and Carter County are a very special place,” said Tipton, who is also branch manager at Carter County Bank, 8257 US-19E. “There is not just one thing that makes it special, it is the combination of many things such as the people and how amazingly caring they are. There is also all the beauty that we are surrounded by and the history that has taken place in this area.”

The village of Roan Mountain has historic buildings such as the S.B. Woods pharmacy building (built in 1898 and currently home to Roan Mountain Pharmacy) on US-19E and the John T. Wilder House on Main Street. Wilder served as a general in the Union Army during the Civil War

and built the Cloudland Hotel on Roan Mountain.

The Roan Mountain Citizens Club has been part of that history, Tipton said, including helping to establish Roan Mountain State Park and the construction of state Route 143, which travels about 22 miles to the top of

Roan Mountain.

In 1947, the club introduced the Roan Mountain Rhododendron Festival, the revenue from which is poured back into the Roan Mountain community in the forms of scholarships, helping to fund the Roan Mountain Volunteer Fire Department, and the Roan Mountain Community Park. The money raised also goes to Roan Mountain State Park, Cloudland Elementary School, Cloudland High School, and other community projects.

“This past year the Rhododendron Festival was voted the best festival in East Tennessee by the Tennessee Magazine, an honor we attribute to our amazing community and vendors,” Tipton said.

The Rhododendron Festival isn’t the only community event the club sponsors. There is also the Fall-O-Dendron Festival, which focuses on Roan Mountain heritage, and the holiday season is kicked off with the annual

Christmas Tree lighting. According to its website, roanmountain.com, the club also celebrates the journey of the “Overmountain Men” from Fort Watauga to King’s Mountain, where they defeated British troops under Col. Patrick Ferguson in the Battle of King’s Mountain.

“The Roan Mountain Citizens Club continues to look for opportunities to help our community. Many of our meetings discuss how we can better help our community,” Tipton said. “I just love the thought, love, and care this group has for this community.”

Tipton said the club is always working for the betterment of the Roan Mountain community and will continue to sponsor its traditional events but hinted at things to come.

“We are working on a project that we hope will help with safety for the community,” Tipton said. “We are also hoping to add more festive lights for Christmas celebration this year.”

Buzz Trexler/Star Correspondent

Roan Mountain Citizens Club President Brian Tipton presents Mike Dyer with special recognition from the club and community during the Nov. 20, 2023, lighting of the Roan Mountain Christmas Tree.

Big changes coming to city’s Parks and Recreation Department in 2024

BY LYNN J. RICHARDSON STAR CORRESPONDENT

Since 1997, David Nanney has worn many hats at the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department.

He has served as the department’s maintenance department assistant supervisor, the athletic coordinator and the recreation manager. Currently serving as the interim director of the department, Nanney says it’s a tremendous honor “to serve the people of our wonderful community.”

The lifelong resident of Elizabethton has been married for 35 years to his wife, Stephanie, and is the father of two daughters, Victoria and Vanessa, who are both employed by the Elizabethton City School system.

“The Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department serves Elizabethton and Carter County,” Nanney said. “We have over 100 acres of park land as well as eleven athletic fields. We provide athletic leagues such as men’s and women’s basketball, flag football and volleyball. We have a public pool and splash pad, tennis courts, pickleball courts and a recreation center.”

The Parks and Recreation Department oversees and maintains miles of park-land, playgrounds, biking and walking trails and scenic pavilions. The department is also responsible for its eight city parks including Harmon, Cat

Island, Covered Bridge, Edwards Island, Walter Curtis, Riverside, Kiwanis and Douglas.

The department is also busy with many special events throughout the year, Nanney said. “Just naming a few, our events include Covered Bridge Jams, Skate by the Doe, Christmas at Covered Bridge Park, Grinchmas, Lego Day, Harry Potter’s Birthday, First Friday Concerts, Rockin’ on the Doe, Covered Bridge Bluegrass Jamboree, and of course Covered Bridge Days.

“This will be our fifth year of overseeing Covered Bridge Days,” Nanney added. “The festival has always been popular in our community, but since 2020 we have seen enormous growth in both attendance and in the number of vendors who want to be part of the event. Out of necessity, mainly due to COVID, in 2020 we moved the traditionally-summer festival to September. People seemed to really enjoy the new schedule, so it stuck.”

During his time with the Parks and Recreation Department, Nanney has seen many changes, and the coming months and years will yield even more. Looking ahead to 2024, Nanney says “exciting things” are on the horizon for the local Parks and Rec Department, including a move to a new location and improvements on a summertime staple –the city’s pool.

“This past year has been a very exciting one for our department,” Nanney said. “We were awarded a community

Photo Contributed

Standing fourth from right, David Nanney recently joined community leaders for the groundbreaking of the new Cyclone fieldhouse/batting facility at Joe O’Brien Baseball field in Elizabethton.

Photo Contributed David Nanney, currently beginning his 27th year with the Elizabethton Parks and Recreation Department, is now serving as the interim director. His duties include overseeing 100 acres of park land, 11 athletic fields and numerous other activities.

block grant which will allow us to renovate the Franklin Pool with plans to begin in August.

“Also, with budgeted money, a donation from the Tetrick Family and help from other community leaders, we have acquired the former Franklin Fitness Center which is located behind Sycamore Shoals Hospital,” Nanney added. “We will soon be moving our offices and most of our operations into this new community center. The larger facility will allow an increase in program capabilities. We hope to offer more exercise classes, health living classes, Tai Chi, art shows and summer programs, just to name a few.

Additionally, Nanney says there are future plans to build a gym onto the existing structure. This addition could possibly house two basketball courts, four volleyball courts, and other amenities.

“We are currently going through the new building, having the HVAC systems, the roof, sprinkler system and all other critical elements inspected. We know that we will have some repairs and replacements to be done before we move in, so at this time, we really don’t have a set move-in date. But we do know that this facility will be a tremendous asset to our community for years to come.”

Once that move takes place, Nanney says the current Parks and Recreation Center located at 300 Mill Street will continue to be used for athletics and other programming until a gymnasium is constructed on the back side of the new parks and recreation center at the former fitness center.

Until then, according to the department’s website, a number of classes and activities are currently offered at the city’s Mill Street location including Fitness Boot camp – an intense full body workout; B A Lean Machine Boot Camp – indoor cycling; Piloxing – pilates, boxing and dance; Dancing Dream Performing Arts Academy – a variety of dance classes of varying styles, cheerleading and Mommy & Me; and Morning Walk and Walk Across Tennessee classes.

And while the focus is currently on the move to a new facility, Nanney says there are even more plans for the future. Other goals to enhance local parks and recreation offerings include the development of a dog park, a skate park and the potential white-water park, Surf Betsy.

Photo Contributed Nanney takes an interview with local media, discussing the many facets of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Photo Contributed Former Parks and Rec Director Mike Mains; Programming and Special Events Coordinator Kelly Kitchens; and Nanney – who was then Recreation Manager –were on hand for the opening of the Elizabethton end of the Tweetsie Trail nearly 10 years ago.

Local Boys & Girls Club focuses on academics, safety…and fun in 2024

BY LYNN J. RICHARDSON STAR CORRESPONDENT

Anyone who knows Shelly Parham’s background shouldn’t be surprised to learn that she loves her job as Chief Executive Officer at the Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County – a role she has now had for over two years. After all, Parham’s whole life has been centered around mental health and the direct needs of children, adolescents, and family.

In fact, if you ask her, she will tell you it was just meant to be and she “believes God led her to build a strong club in a small community just like the one she grew up in.”

The Michigan-born mother of three has been with the local Club

the Chief Executive Officer at Elizabethton/Carter County Boys and Girls Club

“It takes an army of people, a safe environment, high-quality programs, and unique experiences to level the playing field for all kids. The Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County doesn’t do just one thing; we do whatever it takes to build great futures for young people.”

—Shelly Parham Chief Executive Officer at Elizabethton/ Carter County Boys & Girls Club

Photo Contributed

The Boys &; Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County recently announced the winners of its Youth of the Year Competition, this year also naming a Junior Youth of the Year. Left to right are Junior Youth of the Year Chevelle Hicks, Youth of the Year Jaimason Sturdivant and Teen Director, Nicole Hensley.

Shelly Parham is

NASCAR great, Rusty Wallace, the most recent guest speaker at the Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County’s GREAT FUTURES dinner, took a break to visit and pose with a group of Club members.

In addition to getting homework and reading assistance in the Club’s learning center, and preparing in many other ways for a great future, the Boys and Girls Club is also about making friends and having fun.

since 2018, previously serving as Club Director, but her work serving children and families started in Florida many years ago, where she was the Executive Director of the oldest child-serving agency. She has a master’s degree in social work from the University of Michigan, is certified in trauma-informed care, behavior management, suicide prevention, leadership competencies and others. She has served on the National Child Welfare League of America advocating for foster care children to have extended care after their 18th birthday so they could continue their education or find a vocation/employment opportunity to begin their adult lives.

All of that and more paved the way for Parham to lead the local Boys & Girls Club, where she says her main goal is to implement programming that is mission-centered, prioritizing the academic and social needs of all children.

“Over the past few years, we have worked hard to change the perception of the Club’s mission,” Parham said. “While athletics remains an important part of what the Club offers, it also offers S.T.E.M.(Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics), art and music, social learning, and healthy habits.

“We put a great emphasis on academics and helping our Club kids succeed in school,” she said. “The Danny Smith Learning Center was dedicated in 2022 and it is the hub for homework help, tutoring, summer reading and math programs and technology. Kids are learning coding and graphic arts.”

In the Teen Room, cooking and life skills training are also offered. Teens learn to budget, explore career options, and they visit local colleges and trade schools to explore opportunities beyond high school.

“The quality of programming offered to members by Youth Development Professionals who are educated, trained, and experienced is bar none,” Par-

Contributed Photos

Representatives of the Boys and Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County were pleased to accept a check for $3,000 — a contribution from the local Jersey Mike’s Subs and owned by twin brothers with local roots - Sam and Andy Curde. Pictured

left to right are BGECC board member, David Leveau, board president Matt Lewis, BGECC CEO Shelly Parham, Jersey Mike’s Elizabethton general manager, Heather Smith and assistant manager, Kinda Brosius.

Photo Contributed

Brenda Merritt, wife of Boys & Girls Club board member, Randy Merritt, reads to an excited group of Club members during their annual Halloween story and pumpkin painting event.

ham added. “Expanding the club and building a safe and positive culture has been a great accomplishment and continues to be our focus.”

Looking ahead to 2024 the club is and will continue to focus on emotional and physical safety, Parham says. “Post COVID-19, many of our members were feeling uncertain and insecure. We answered this need through a grant from Ballad Health to incorporate a Social Emotional Learning program. The program identifies childhood adverse effects in children and youth, and creates plans to address ADHD, sensory deregulation, and cognitive overload. It also incorporates positive reinforcement and learning groups to help children experiencing divorce, loss or other issues that make them feel alone or isolated.

“When children can identify their emotions and create positive nar-

ratives, it can be life changing,” Parham added. “To that end, the club has also built a sensory room where soft lighting, soothing sounds and sensory seating can help kids learn to manage their need for focus and calm.”

After the active shooter situation in Nashville occurred, Parham has also stressed the need for making physical safety a priority at the Club. The Club’s Board of Directors Operations Committee responded, forming a Safety Committee which did several walk-throughs with local law enforcement and safety professionals from the Boys & Girls Club of America who are trained to identify safety issues.

As a result, the Club now has a state-of-the-art internal and external camera system that includes alerts from the parking lot, facial recognition and on-line monitoring.

A key card entry system has been installed ensuring secure the doors and entrances – and allowing for a total shutdown. An upgraded panic button is in place so law enforcement is directly and immediately alerted to any situation at the Club. In addition, one-way vision film on windows and other security measures have been installed. All these safety features are funded by a grant from FEMA.

One of the Club’s biggest needs is transportation, and the need to replace aging buses.

“We pick children up every day from twelve different schools and bring them to the Club,” Parham explained. “And in the summer, we transport the kids to a multitude of educational field trips and experiences.

“The Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County is very

important to this entire community,” Parham said. “It provides so many opportunities and teaches values and integrity to young people who are our future workforce, educators, small business owners, bankers, etc. We want to let the public know about what the club does and how vital our services are to everyone. We are so grateful to our supporters and donors, and our city and county governments who help us sustain the operations in the club.

Staff retention and recruitment is a priority for quality care.

“It takes an army of people, a safe environment, high-quality programs, and unique experiences to level the playing field for all kids. The Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County doesn’t do just one thing; we do whatever it takes to build great futures for young people.”

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Curt Alexander - 423-543-1181

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William E. “Bill” Carter

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Jeffery C. Treadway

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Richard Barker

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Mary Gouge - 423-542-1814

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Teresa Murray-Smith (R)

Wayne Smith (D)

Tom Whitehead (R)

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Office Phone: 423-543-2331

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Dr. Brandon Carpenter

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Chairman Kelly Crain - 6th District Vice Chairman Keith Bowers – 1st District

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Kelly Collins

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Chancellor - John C. Rambo

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Steve Finney

Assistant District Attorney

Matt Roark

Carter County Commissioners

1st District – Hunter, Midway, and Unaka Communities

Willie Campbell, 1st District

Nick Holder, 1st District

Robert Acuff, 1st District

2nd District – Hampton, Roan Mountain, and Tiger Valley

Nancy J. Brown, 2nd District

Avery Wynn, 2nd District

Julie Guinn, 2nd District

3rd District – Central, Keenburg, Range, and Watauga

Bradley Johnson, 3rd District

Steve Burrough, 3rd District

Angie Odom, 3rd District

4th District – Courthouse, Eastside, and Siam Communities

Danny Deal, 4th District

Gary Kemp, 4th District

Jerry Proffitt, 4th District

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Lisa Childress, 5th District

Ginger Holdren, 5th District

Layla Ward, 5th District

6th District – Hampton, Little Milligan, Elk Mills, Valley Forge

Donnie Cable, 6th District

Jason Clawson, 6th District

Todd Smith, 6th District

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Jason Rasnick, 7th District

Aaron Frazier, 7th District

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Cody McQueen, 8th District

Kelly Collins, 8th District

Thomas Proffitt, 8th District

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423-543-5445

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Jonathan Pleasant

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Jason Shaw

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David Nanney

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Greg Workman

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Logan Engle

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