Mountain Escapes

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MOUNTAIN ESCAPES

prints 6 times per year.

HOW TO ADVERTISE OR REQUEST A MEDIA KIT:

CONTACT TERRY PATTERSON 865-242-1512

MOUNTAINESCAPES10@GMAIL.COM

PUBLISHER | Terry Patterson

DESIGNER | Cajun Graham

SOCIAL MEDIA | Hiring!

DISTRIBUTION | Karsten Lueth, Gary Flanagan

DISTRIBUTION AREAS

Western North Carolina, Southwest Virginia, East Tennessee & Seasonal North Georgia

ADVERTISING DEADLINES:

OCT/NOV ISSUE: September 15th

DEC/JAN ISSUE: November 15th

FEB/MAR ISSUE: January 15th

APR/MAY ISSUE: March 15th

JUNE/JULY ISSUE: May 15th

AUG/SEPT: July 15th

Locally owned and operated. Woman

FIVE STAR TOP R ATED

The Wander School

a different kind of Herb School

The WANDER School is a different kind of Herb School. We started off a one-woman show (hi, that’s me!) to offer herbal and foraging education here in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, the Asheville region of Appalachia. Then 2020 happened.

The WANDER School (capitalized because it’s an acronym for Wild Artemisia Nature Discovery, Empowerment, and Reconnection) became a nonprofit in 2020 to provide herbs, herbal remedies, and botanical education to underserved communities. We sent herbs and herbal remedies to our Native Lakota friends in the north. The elders didn’t want to leave their homes for fear of getting sick. Friend

Linda Black Elk and her family were driving as much as 250 miles to hand deliver bins of traditional and favorite foods and herbs. Then we started hand delivering herbs and remedies to our Cherokee neighbors and helping them process herbs they had grown and foraged.

When Hurricane Helene hit last fall, we pivoted and mobilized. Our focus shifted from education to Herbal Aid recovery work. We’ve been receiving herbal remedy donations and distributing them at the local food pantry café, creating an herbal self care station for relief workers, and organizing practitioners to create the free mobile Wandering Wellness Clinic. As some things start to get into the groove

If you’d like to help, contact abby@thewanderschool.com You can find more information, including learning about our annual WildCrafted Herb School now open for registration, at thewanderschool.com Abby Artemisia Botanist, Herbalist, Forager Founder of The WANDER School www.thewanderschool.com

Discovering Wildlife

One of the best things about living in Western North Carolina, or visiting, is the vast and vibrant beauty of the woods, hills and fields that surround our mountain towns. Exploring wildlife in their natural habitats is an important part of life here. As a volunteer with Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, I enjoy learning more about the various species and the beautiful natural world that we sometimes take for granted. For example:

• Bats come in all sizes, many small as an inch long and others with wing spans measured in feet. With more than 1,400 species worldwide, bats are among

the most diverse of the mammal species. Seventeen species of bats can be found in North Carolina including four listed as federally threatened or endangered.

• North Carolina’s bat species can be divided into two groups: winter hibernating species most commonly found roosting in caves and other dark, moist enclosures such as mine shafts and, to the dismay of humans, in attics and under roofs; and migratory bats that live in woodsy environs near water and can be seen flying in large swarms during in search of food and warm temperatures.

• Contrary to popular belief, bats have good eyesight, on par or better than humans. But for most species, the primary navigation technique is echolocation (a type of sonar) in which bats emit high-pitched sounds that bounce off objects. The popular phrase blind as a bat is a misconception.

• Bats are well-known for carrying rabies, a potentially lethal disease. While it’s rare for humans to encounter an infected bat, people need to exercise caution and, if scratched or bitten, consult a doctor.

Portion of this informations was told to the author in an interview by Kyle Shute, a habitat ecologist with the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservation

Hurricane Helene has devastated western North Carolina and more specifically Mitchell County. We ask you to help support these communities and their businesses this Holiday season. We have highlighted a few of our clients below. If you would like more information on ways to help the areas effected, visit: www.mitchellcountync.gov We

Sweetwater Celebrates Its Story

Launch of How to Get the Girl and the “Falling for Sweetwater” Tourism Campaign

On January 22, 2025, Sweetwater hosted the premiere of *How to Get the Girl*, a romantic comedy short film that captures the town’s charm and community. This screening also launched Sweetwater’s tourism campaign, “Falling for Sweetwater,” inviting visitors to explore the town through romance, nostalgia, and small-town living.

“This campaign is part of telling our story,” says Hayley Isbill, Sweetwater’s Director of Tourism. “From the film to the 150th Anniversary celebrations, we’re celebrating Sweetwater’s history, charm, and future.”

Produced by Tennessee-based a/b studios, *How to Get the Girl* was filmed entirely in Sweetwater. The story follows Patrick as he tries to win back his high school sweetheart, with Sweetwater’s landmarks playing

a key role, including Sweetwater Antiques and Sweetwater Creamery.

“What makes Sweetwater special isn’t just its historic Main Street—it’s the people,” says Amelia Bartlett, executive producer. “This film was made possible by the community, and we’re excited to show how Sweetwater is the perfect backdrop for love stories.”

As Sweetwater celebrates its 150th Anniversary, the screening and campaign tie into a year of festivities that highlight the town’s heritage and its future as a cultural hub. “People used to drive through Main Street to get to UT games, but now they’re stopping to experience Sweetwater,” says City Administrator Jessica Morgan.

The *Falling for Sweetwater* campaign supports local businesses and

offers a romantic day-trip itinerary featuring spots like The Lazy Beagle and Sweetwater Flower Shop.

The travel guide, launching with the film, features an itinerary inspired by the movie. From coffee at The Cup Runneth Over to dinner at The Lazy Beagle, visitors will experience

Sweetwater’s charm as the characters do.

“We want people to fall in love with Sweetwater the same way our characters do,” says Bartlett. “Whether you’re visiting for Valentine’s Day or just a charming day trip, this guide shows you how to make the most of this magical town.”

*How to Get the Girl* was a finalist at Film Fest Knox’s Elev8or Pitch Competition, supporting regional filmmakers. “Sweetwater has been an incredible partner, and this is just the beginning of what’s possible when communities and filmmakers collaborate,” says Bartlett.

For more information on *How to Get the Girl* and the *Falling for Sweetwater* Travel Guide, visit Sweetwater’s website or follow on social media: @visitsweetwatertn | Sweetwater Main Street.

Celebrate Love with Timeless Sparkle at Fountain City Jewelers

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the one you love with a gesture as enduring and beautiful as your relationship. And what better way to mark this special occasion than by adding a touch of sparkle to her life? At Fountain City Jewelers, we believe that the truest expression of affection lies in a carefully chosen piece of jewelry, something that will be cherished and admired for years to come. Whether it’s the unforgettable promise of an engagement ring or a classic necklace that complements her unique style, we are here to help you make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Imagine the joy of gifting her something timeless—elegant, brilliant, and designed to last a lifetime. The right piece of jewelry is not just a present, but a lasting reminder of the love you share, one that she can carry with her wherever she goes.

Our team of Sparkle Specialists is dedicated to helping you find the perfect piece. Whether you’re seeking something simple yet elegant or

a show-stopping statement piece, we will guide you every step of the way. At Fountain City Jewelers, we offer a personalized experience to ensure that the jewelry you select is exactly what your heart desires. Don’t wait for the holiday to sneak up on you—stop by today or anytime to handpick a gift that will make her smile, not just on Valentine’s Day, but all year round.

A Timeless Romance: Vintage Jewelry

When it comes to love, there’s something undeniably romantic about the allure of vintage jewelry. Every piece has a story to tell—woven into the intricate details and craftsmanship, each item carries the whispers of time and history. At Fountain City Jewelers, we’ve developed a deep and passionate appreciation for the beauty and charm of vintage and antique jewelry. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce an exclusive event that promises to transport you to another era: our One-Day-Only Estate Jewelry Event, happening on March 15th!

For just one day, we will be unveiling a stunning new collection of vintage and antique jewelry, each piece hand-selected for its rarity, artistry, and timeless beauty. This event is your chance to explore an exquisite array of rare, one-of-akind pieces that span several decades of design history. From the delicate filigree rings of the Edwardian era to the bold, geometric shapes of Art Deco necklaces, our collection offers a variety of styles and craftsmanship that will delight the jewelry lover with an eye for detail and history.

Each piece in this exclusive collection has been carefully sourced and authentically authenticated, ensuring that what you find at this event is truly unique. Whether you’re looking to add a vintage treasure to your personal collection or searching for the perfect gift that conveys the deep affection you feel, these timeless treasures will leave an indelible impression on your heart and her soul. But be aware, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will only be available for one day, on March 15th, so join us to view and purchase these exceptional, rare pieces of jewelry.

date is set—March 15th. Join

of

at

Marble City Opera in 2025

As Knoxville’s chamber opera company, Marble City Opera often performs in unique venues to create site-specific experiences. In 2025, Marble City Opera will present operas, concerts, community outreach performances, and a fun fundraiser called the Pop-Up Opera Party.

Marble City Opera was founded in 2013. Under the leadership of co-founder and Executive Artis-

tic Director Kathryn Frady, the company has staged classic operas as well as new works that are often performed in English. Many of the new operas received their world-premiere performances with Marble City Opera.

On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Marble City Opera hosts its annual Pop-Up Opera Party, a fundraising gala that is also a fun party to attend. Guests will enjoy delicious

food catered by Holly’s Gourmet’s Market and a signature cocktail crafted by PostModern Distilling. The event features multiple operatic performances popping up during the course of the evening as singers who have been mingling among the guests burst into song.

This year’s performers include Kathryn Frady, Whitney Wells, Maurice Hendricks, April Hill, Daniel Spiotta, Jacqueline Brecheen, and the Marble City Opera ensemble, all accompanied by Brandon Coffer on piano. Managing Director Frank Murphy will serve as emcee and auctioneer, offering up one-of-akind items and experiences to the highest bidders.

Marble City Opera brings music to the Secret City of Oak Ridge in February with a concert of operatic favorites on Sunday, February 23, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. The concert will be held at the Historic Grove Theater, 123 Randolph Road in Oak Ridge. The Grove celebrated its 80th birthday in 2024.

March marks the return of Marble City Opera’s relaxing Pint-Sized Opera community-outreach events. Several singers take over a pub for two hours of music and merriment. Admission is free but donations to Marble City Opera are encouraged. On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, PintSized Opera will be held at Monday Night Proofing Co. inside Kerns Food Hall, 2201 Kerns Rising Way, just south of the Henley Street Bridge.

On April 3, 4, and 5, 2025, Kathryn Frady will star in The Human Voice, which was composed by Francis Poulenc in 1958. The performances will be sung in English and staged as an immersive, site-specific experience at Historic Westwood, 3425 Kingston Pike. Westwood is a Queen Anne style home completed in 1890. It was the residence and studio of artist

Adelia Armstrong Lutz and her husband John.

The Human Voice is a one-act monodrama based on a play by Jean Cocteau. The only character is a woman who is on the phone with her former lover who has abandoned her for another woman. When Frady performed The Human Voice in 2017, critic Alan Sherrod wrote on the website Arts Knoxville:

“Kathryn Frady drew the audience deeply in as voyeurs into her psychological dilemma in The Human Voice. Frady’s brilliance as a soprano capable of riveting the audience’s attention—in vocal depth, in lyrical beauty, and in a marvelously conceived ebb and flow of posture and attitude—was as rewarding as it gets in theatre.”

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Crafter’s Brew in Oak Ridge will play host to a Pint-Sized Opera event. The popular bar is located at 856 Oak Ridge Turnpike. Once again admission is free and donations are welcome.

In June 2024, Marble City Opera ventured outside of Knoxville to perform Puccini’s il Tabarro at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore and at Melton Lake Park in Oak Ridge. Because of the success of those two performances, Marble

City Opera will return to Vonore and Oak Ridge in June 2025.

Marble City Opera closes its 202425 mainstage season with three performances of Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci. The renowned opera will be staged at the Tennessee Amphitheater in World’s Fair Park on Thursday, June 5, 2025; at the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore on Friday, June 6, 2025; and in the pavilion at A.K. Bissell Park in Oak Ridge on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

In Pagliacci, a comedy troupe comes to town for a performance but the lead actor discovers that his wife and co-star is in love with another man. His jealous rage erupts during their show with devastating results.

Marble City Opera’s reimagined production of Pagliacci in August, 2020 was the first live opera performance in the country after the Covid lockdown. Frady worked in coordination with the Knox County Health Department and the City of Knoxville to follow procedures that made the performance in front of a live audience possible.

Tickets for the Pop-Up Opera Party, the concert at the Grove Theatre, The Human Voice, and Pagliacci are on sale at MarbleCityOpera.com/ tickets

Font/Galery: www.marblecityopera.com/gallery

Farrell Levy Receives 2 024 Hidden Hero Award

From Rotary Club of Farragut

November 13, 2024 – The Rotary Club of Farragut has selected Farrell Levy as the 2024 recipient of the Hidden Hero Award. The award recognizes unsung heroes in Knox County who go out of their way to help others in need. Levy, a Farragut native and part-

ner in the McDonald, Levy, and Taylor law firm, is a founder of The Dream Connection, an all-volunteer organization that makes dreams come true for children with serious and life-threatening illnesses. Levy was presented with the award at the Rotary

Club meeting at Fox Den Country Club in Farragut.

“This is our way to honor individuals in our community who exemplify the Rotary motto of Service Above Self,” said Scott Bertini, president of the Rotary Club of Farragut.

Beth Milam, board president of The Dream Connection, said, “Farrell has been a key leader since we were formed. Thanks to his involvement, we have provided 1,100 dreams for children in East Tennessee.”

The 2024 Hidden Hero Award nomination process was open to the public. The only requirement was that the nominee be from Knox County and the service rendered in Knox County. Don Ball nominated Levy for the award. “Farrell was instrumental in the formation of The Dream Connection in 1985 and has been a mentor and guide for a lot of people for forty years,” Ball said in his nomination.

About Farragut Rotary Established in 1980, the club includes more than 70 women and men in professions, business owners, and community leaders who meet at 12:00 each Wednesday at Fox Den Country Club. Members of the Rotary Club of Farragut are committed to the Farragut and Knoxville communities through service, hands-on work projects, and financial support.

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, and leaders who volunteer their skills and resources to

Farrel Levy Rotary Club of Farragut

Recipe: Chia Seed Pudding

1/3 cup chia seeds

2 cups coconut milk

1 tsp vanilla

1/4 cup sugar or maple syrup(optional)

2 cups of diced mango

Mix chia seeds, coconut milk and vanilla in a bowl, cover and let sit in the fridge for several hours or overnight.

In a pudding cup layer mango and prepared pudding. Serve and enjoy.

Rushmie Purba-Bakshi

From Garden Blooms to General Goods:

Exploring Broyles General Store & Garden

Emporium

Part 1: Discover the Beauty of Broyles Garden Emporium

Nestled in picturesque Greeneville, Tennessee, at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, Broyles Garden Emporium is a haven for flower lovers and home decor enthusiasts. With a rich history that dates back to 1951, the store has evolved into a cherished destination for those seeking vibrant blooms, unique decorations, and expert gardening advice.

David Broyles, the third-generation owner, transformed what was once a warehouse into today’s stunning Garden Emporium. “The

feed business and the ag business was my Dad’s thing and he didn’t understand the whole concept of the decorating thing,” David recalls. “But I went to him and said, ‘Dad, I want to do this.’ He told me, “I’ve made my living. It’s up to you to figure out how to make yours.’ And he let me take the warehouse and turn it into lawn and garden decor.”

David’s vision paved the way for the thriving garden center that stands today.

A Floral Paradise

Each spring, the Garden Emporium bursts to life with a breathtaking array of flowers. From hanging baskets to perennial favorites, there’s

Spring is the season of renewal, fresh flavors, and sunshine-filled moments with the ones you love. Stop by and check us out— we’re here to brighten your day and customize your perfect order!

something for every gardener. Roses, however, are the true stars. “We get about 400 roses each year and offer around 60 varieties,” David explains. Popular choices include hybrid teas like Queen Elizabeth, Mr. Lincoln, and Veterans Honor. These high-quality roses draw gardening enthusiasts from across East Tennessee. The Emporium also specializes in seasonal garden decor. “All along the back wall we have a whole row of garden flags for every season,” David shares. “We also carry kinetic spinners, yard stakes, and beautiful flower pots to add personality to any outdoor space.”

Expertly Grown Plants

David’s commitment to quality extends to the plants he nurtures and sells. “I raise about 50 varieties of vegetable plants, including heirloom tomatoes like Cherokee Purple, Brandywine, Mr. Stripey, Mortgage Lifter, Green Zebra, and more” he says. In addition to the heirloom varieties and popular

hybrids like Big Boy, Better Boy, and Sunsweet Cherry, one unique tomato variety he sells is a striped, yellow pineapple tomato. People drive from Johnson City, Morristown and as far away as Knoxville and Asheville in North Carolina because they can’t find these varieties anywhere else. Customers can trust that every plant has been carefully cultivated to thrive.

Why Choose Broyles?

What sets Broyles Garden Emporium apart from big-box stores? David’s dedication to quality and personalized service. “I don’t like to sell anything I have to apologize for,” he says. “Whether it’s the plants, potting soil, or seeds, we ensure it’s something you can rely on.” As David puts it, “People know us for what we sell in the spring, and we’ve been blessed to stay busy year after year.”

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, Broyles Garden Emporium offers every-

Monday 10am-3pm

10am-2pm

thing you need to create a beautiful and welcoming outdoor space. Visit this East Tennessee gem and discover why it has been a beloved community staple for over 70 years.

Part 2: The Nostalgia and Necessities of Broyles General Store

Just steps away from the Garden Emporium, Broyles General Store offers a blend of practical goods and charming nostalgia. With roots tracing back to its beginnings as a hatchery in 1951, the General Store has grown to serve the needs of both farmers and families in East Tennessee.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

The General Store preserves the charm of simpler times, offering a selection of old-fashioned toys and bulk candy that delights visitors of all ages. “We keep a lot of the old agricultural-related toys,” David shares. Parents and grandparents come in and love seeing the toys

they grew up with, like little farm tractors, Radio Flyer wagons, and sleds for playing in the snow. Educational and hands-on toys provide a refreshing alternative to screens, encouraging creativity and play. Adding to the nostalgic feel is the store’s bulk candy selection. “We’ve got big bins of old-fashioned candy,” David explains, reminiscent of classic candy counters from the last century. The experience of selecting a sweet treat brings smiles to visitors young and old.

Practical Offerings for Every Need

Broyles General Store also caters to practical needs with an impressive selection of vegetable seeds, plants, herbs, and garden supplies. “We sell seeds by the scoop, which is a pretty good niche for us,” David says. “As far as I know, we’re the only ones still selling seeds this way in East Tennessee.” And people love it because it’s a much better value to purchase a scoop of seeds by the ounce, especially for those with larger gardens. His selection

of seeds includes radishes, lettuces, cabbage, carrots, okra, beets, watermelon, cantaloupe, and squash. Another hard-to-find item is half-pound packages of beans and corn seed. Of course, anyone with a smaller garden can purchase the more familiar seed packets as well. For those with a love for animals, the store carries horse and chicken feed, wild birdseed, bird houses and feeders, and even baby chicks in the spring. “Most people raise the baby chicks for eggs at home,” David notes. “It’s a way for families to know exactly where their food comes from.”

Community Roots

The General Store remains a hub for local and regional customers. “We’ve been fortunate to grow a wide customer base,” David shares. People shop there because they know they’re getting high quality products and a personal touch they won’t find in big-box stores. From seeds and chicks to timeless toys and candy, Broyles General

Store is more than just a place to shop. It’s a place where memories are made, traditions are preserved, and the community comes together. Stop by and experience the heart and soul of East Tennessee at this one-of-a-kind store.

David Broyles, 4 years old, in front of the store.
On this picture, my grandfather, Kelly and my dad, Jerry in 1951

Merle Ferst

Where Music, Moments, and Memories, Come Alive

Every spring, the rolling hills of Wilkesboro, North Carolina, come alive with the sounds of fiddles, banjos, and guitars. For four days, the campus of Wilkes Community College transforms into a musical haven known as MerleFest, a festival that has become one of the most cherished events on the music calendar.

The story of MerleFest began in 1988, born out of the heart and soul of American music legend Doc Watson, in memory of his beloved son, Eddy Merle Watson. Doc’s vision was simple yet profound: to celebrate “traditional plus” music—a unique blend of Appalachian roots, bluegrass, and oldtime music, enriched with flavors of Americana, country, blues, rock, and more. This eclectic mix is what makes MerleFest so special, drawing music lovers from all walks of life.

As you wander through the festival, the MUSIC captures you instantly. It’s more than just the melodies; it’s a feeling, a connection. Doc Watson described it best: “When Merle and I started out, we called our music ‘traditional plus,’ meaning the traditional music of the Appalachian region plus whatever other styles we were in

the mood to play. Since the beginning, the people of the college and I have agreed that the music of MerleFest is ‘traditional plus’.”

But MerleFest is about more than just music. It’s about MOMENTS that become memories. Picture this: two musicians who have never played together before, meeting on stage for an impromptu jam session that leaves the audience in awe. Or, imagine a shooting star streaking across the sky over the Watson Stage, perfectly timed with the evening’s final notes. These are the magical moments that only happenat MerleFest.

Every year, new MEMORIES are created, adding to the rich tapestry of the festival’s history. There’s a poignant tribute to Eddy Merle Watson each day, reminding everyone of the festival’s roots. And then there’s Doc Watson himself, whose unending contributions to the festival, the college, and the music world are felt in every note played. Fans still talk about the times Doc took the stage, his flat-picking style, rich baritone voice, and humble presence leaving an indelible mark.

As MerleFest approaches its 37th

year in 2025, the festival continues to honor its founders while looking to the future. It’s a place where diverse, genre-crossing artists come together to create once-in-alifetime performances and collaborations, paying homage to Doc and Merle Watson’s legacy.

Beyond the music, MerleFest is a cornerstone of the community. It’s the primary fundraiser for Wilkes Community College, having contributed over 20 million dollars since its inception. These funds support student scholarships, building improvements, emergency funds, and more. The local community is deeply involved, with student organizations and civic clubs raising over $400,000 annually through food sales and volunteer efforts at the festival.

MerleFest isn’t just a festival; it’s a homecoming, a gathering of kindred spirits. It’s where music, memories, and community come together to create something truly magical. And as the last note fades and the festivalgoers head home, they carry with them the songs, the stories, and the anticipation of returning next year to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains for another unforgettable MerleFest.

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