APRIL | MAY 2025 COVERING MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA & WESTERN NC
Vincent Van Gogh
Kingsport, Tennessee - Kingsport Ballet prepares to stage a brand new work - Vincent. It will be staged June 28-29, 2025 at Northeast State’s Ballad Health Performing Arts Center. This original contemporary ballet explores Vincent Van Gogh’s life and art. Van Gogh - the prolific painter - battles his darker self on stage. His favorite painting themes tell the story of Vincent’s struggle with mental illness, rejection, and perceived failure through the art of dance.
Vincent features never-before-seen choreography, backdrops, and costumes inspired by Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Starry Night and others. It is choreographed by Leonid
Flegmatov, Erika Ballard, and Irma Cardano from Naples, Italy, and is a collaborative effort of many exceptionally talented contributors.
Dancers include Kingsport Ballet’s Professional Company, the school’s Senior Company, and Graham Barnes from Nashville Ballet. Graham trained at Kingsport Ballet under Valeria Sinyavskaya, Leonid Flegmatov and Erika Ballard, and subsequently graduated from the Harid Conservatory.
In this beautiful and emotional production, elements from Van Gogh’s paintings come to life in a merging of contemporary, modern dance, and ballet. Tickets: KingsportBallet.org.
The Choreographers:
Leonid Flegmatov has been the Artistic Director of Kingsport Ballet since 2022. He graduated from the renowned Bolshoi Academy and completed a full, international performance career as principal and soloist dancer. He is now also a teacher and coach.
Irma Cardano is a sought-after contemporary choreographer. She has created original works internationally and has served on various dance judging panels. Ms. Cardano is a contributing choreographer to Vincent with her creation of Sunflowers.
Erika Ballard holds a BFA in Ballet Performance from the University of Oklahoma. She is a long-time teacher and choreographer with Kingsport Ballet, having created numerous modern works, including the original Seeds of Change project.
“Beautiful and emotional production, elements from Van Gogh’s paintings come to life”
Upcoming Kingsport Ballet Events:
Our annual BALLET AND BUBBLY fundraiser is April 25th at the Kingsport Farmers Market. Enjoy delicious food and drink, live dance performances, and a performance by Dobyns-Bennet’s saxophone quartet. Tickets: $75/person or $600/table. Email: kingsportballet@gmail.com.
instructors provide an immersive, daily intensive with instruction in ballet, pointe, variations, partnering, contemporary, yoga, and more. Register: www.KingsportBallet.org
ANGELINA BALLERINA: Summer camp for ages 3-6. Tuesdays/Thursdays in July. $135/child. Register: KingsportBallet.org
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
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AUG/SEPT: July 15th Published by: MOUNTAIN ESCAPES
Locally owned and operated. Woman owned small business.
FOLLOW
NORTH CAROLINA
BAKERSVILLE,
Mountain
SPRUCE PINE,
Momma D’s: A Cozy Kingsport Haven for All-Day Brunch and More
Nestled in the heart of Kingsport, Momma D’s is set to become the community’s newest destination for comforting meals and meaningful connections. Inspired by owner Lindsay Clarke’s mother, Debbie Pickens—affectionately known as “Momma D”— this cozy restaurant brings a warm, home-like atmosphere to the dining scene. Opening in April, Momma D’s offers all-day brunch, dinner, and craft cocktails, filling a much-needed gap in the area.
Lindsay, with over 20 years of restaurant experience, created Momma D’s as a tribute to her mother’s nurturing spirit and love for food. Her vision is to provide a welcoming space where guests feel like family. The menu reflects this warmth, featuring comfort food with a creative twist, such as Grand Marnier Custard French Toast and Sassy Salmon Eggs Benedict, available from morning to evening.
In addition to brunch, Momma D’s serves hearty dinner entrees like the Momma’s Surf n’ Turf, a cast iron-seared ribeye paired with garlic and white wine sautéed shrimp, served alongside lemon asparagus and whipped golden potatoes. Appetizers such as Smoked Salmon Dip and Pimento Cheese Fried Green Tomatoes add to the diverse offerings, ensuring there’s something for every palate—including vegetarians and those with
gluten-free preferences.
The menu also features delicious handheld options like the Towanda Chicken Sandwich, topped with grilled chicken, bacon, fried green tomatoes, and pimento cheese. Braveheart Black Angus Burgers, such as the Rise and Shine Burger with thicksliced bacon, cheddar, and a fried egg, provide a satisfying bite. A dedicated kids’ menu offers comforting choices, making it an ideal spot for families.
Beyond the food, Momma D’s is a community hub, inviting guests to gather over fresh juices, craft cocktails, and specialty coffee. Thoughtfully curated ingredients, like those from Abingdon Olive Oil Company, elevate the flavors in dishes like the Roasted Vegetable Risotto and Momma’s Salad, ensuring a quality dining experience.
With its inviting ambiance and diverse menu, Momma D’s is poised to become a beloved local spot where memories are made. Whether you’re craving brunch, a hearty dinner, or simply a place to connect, Momma D’s welcomes you to experience the warmth of home. Look out for its grand opening this April!
It’s Mother’s Day…bring Mom! Pack a picnic blanket (or lawn chair) and enjoy an afternoon of live hot jazz, dancing, flow arts, international cuisine and arts & crafts. Spinners, jugglers, and dancers welcome. Bring a picnic if you like (but leave the coolers and outside alcohol at home—cold beer is available on-site). Doors open at 4:30 PM. Cigano Swing will play at 4:55 PM. SWINGBOOTY hits the stage at 6:30 PM. Yoga Flow by Abbi Bentley at 6:10. $10 at door. - Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vGbHIQHfJE
Tickets available: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jazz-at-ijams-on-mothersday-2025-tickets-1252572210199
Marble Springs State Historic Site
Presents Our Annual Statehood Day Festival
Marble Springs State Historic Site presents our annual Statehood Day Festival on Saturday, May 31st, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm! Come celebrate Tennessee’s rich history with a day full of community spirit, Appalachian charm, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Stroll through the craft fair and discover a variety of handmade goods and unique finds from local vendors. From traditional crafts inspired by 18th-century techniques to modern creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy — and it’s a great way to support
talented local artisans. Vendor applications are now open! If you’d like to be part of the craft fair, visit our website or Facebook page for more information.
We’re also thrilled to introduce a Cornbread Bake-Off this year! Think you’ve got the best cornbread in town? Keep an eye on our website and social media for details on how to enter — you won’t want to miss it!
And that’s just the beginning — there will be plenty of activities and fun throughout the day. We’ve
got more exciting announcements coming soon, so be sure to follow us on social media and check our website for updates!
Feeling hungry? Local food vendors will be serving up delicious Southern fare all day long, perfect for enjoying while you take in the sights and sounds of history coming to life. Historical reenactors will be on hand to share stories and demonstrate the skills that helped shape Tennessee’s early days.
Mark your calendar and bring the whole family for a day of histo -
ry, crafts, and community fun. Admission is free, but donations to support Marble Springs’ preservation efforts are always appreciated. For more information and updates, visit www.marblesprings.net or follow us on social media.
Marble Springs State Historic Site is funded under an agreement with the Tennessee Historical Commission.
Let’s celebrate Tennessee’s roots together — we’ll see you there!”
SATURDAY, MAY 17TH 10AM
Spring Gardening Guide: How to Prepare Your Garden for a Flourishing Season
As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, spring presents the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your garden. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these essential tips will help you prepare your outdoor space for a season of vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
1. Clean Up and Prepare
After the harsh conditions of winter, your garden likely needs a thor
garden paths. Prune any damaged branches from trees and shrubs to encourage new growth. If you have perennials, trim them back to allow for fresh foliage.
2. Revitalize the Soil
Healthy plants begin with healthy soil. Spring is the ideal time to enrich your garden beds with compost or organic matter. This helps replenish lost nutrients and improves soil structure. Consider
will also help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Choose the Right Plants
Selecting the right plants for the season is crucial. Opt for native plants and flowers that thrive in your climate. Early bloomers such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses add a splash of color, while vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and carrots can be planted early. If you plan to grow herbs, consider rosemary, basil, and mint for a fragrant and useful addition to your garden.
4. Efficient Watering Techniques
Spring showers may help keep your garden hydrated, but it’s essential to establish a consistent watering routine. Water your plants early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent diseases. Installing a rain barrel can also provide an eco-friendly way to collect and use rainwater for irrigation.
5. Encourage Pollinators
A thriving garden benefits from pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Planting nectar-rich flowers like lavender, sunflowers, and wildflowers will attract these beneficial creatures. Avoid chemical pesticides that may harm them and instead opt for natural pest control methods like companion planting.
6. Plan for Pest Management
Pests can become an issue as temperatures rise. Natural solutions such as introducing ladybugs and praying mantises to your garden can help control aphids and other harmful insects. Companion planting, like growing marigolds to deter nematodes, can also reduce the need for chemical treatments.
7. Lawn Care and Maintenance
Your lawn is an integral part of your outdoor space. Reseed bare patches, aerate compacted soil, and apply an organic, slow-release fertilizer to promote strong root development. Keep your grass at an appropriate height, as longer blades help retain moisture and shade out weeds.
8. Enhance Your Outdoor Space
A well-designed garden extends beyond plants. Consider adding decorative elements such as
garden furniture, trellises, and water features to create a relaxing outdoor retreat. Bird feeders and baths can also invite more wildlife to your garden, enriching the overall experience.
Spring is a time of renewal, and with a little effort, your garden can become a beautiful and productive oasis. By following these essential gardening tips, you can enjoy a season filled with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and a thriving ecosystem right in your backyard. Happy gardening!
East Tennessee Veterans Memorial
To Remember, Honor, Educate, and Inspire…
The East Tennessee Veterans Memorial is a public plaza with a formal arrangement of granite pillars bearing the names of 6316 fallen heroes from 35 East Tennessee counties who died in military service during named conflicts since World War I. It was dedicated and officially unveiled November 15, 2008.
The names of the 15 Medal of honor recipients from East Ten-
nessee are inscribed and honored on the reverse side of the pillars. Quotations related to the wars and national service offer an occasion for reflection and meditation. A bell tower tolls for those lost, and for the four essential freedoms we honor and defend.
Major support for the Memorial has come from Knox County, the City of Knoxville, the State of Tennessee, the Federal Government, and hundreds of individuals, businesses, and groups.
2025 ETVMA Medal of Honor Evening Table Sales Now Open!
Tickets and sponsorships are now on sale for the 2025 ETVMA Medal of Honor Evening on Monday May 5, 2025. The East Tennessee Veterans Memorial Association presents the 14th Annual Medal of Honor Evening, honoring World War I Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Edward Talley, United States Army.
The event is scheduled for Monday
May 5, 2025 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown Knoxville. Social Hour begins at 5:30 pm, with dinner and presentation at 6:30 pm, featuring historian Dr. Richard S. Faulkner, Professor at Fort Leavenworth’s Army Command and General Staff College. Tickets available at: https://www.etvma. org/events/etvma-medal-of-honor-evening/?v=200119%2F
Join other animal lovers to enjoy local vendors, music, food trucks, pet costume contest, adoptions on site through East Tennessee shelters & rescues All to benefit the animals in need from our
Presented by Anderson County Animal Rescue Foundation (AC ARF)
Presented by Anderson County Animal Rescue Foundation (AC ARF)
Deep in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Mount Sterling Base Camp, ran by Falcon Expeditions, offers the ultimate escape for adventure seekers and digital nomads.
Located on the edge of Pisgah National Forest and adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this property is a stone’s throw from world-class hiking, off-road terrain, diverse
waterways, and white water rapids. The Appalachian Trail runs nearby, while Big Creek and Cataloochee Valley offer a glimpse into old Appalachia as well as hidden swimming holes, and wildlife viewing—including elk, black bear, peregrine falcons, bald eagles, and salamanders. Whether you’re into exploring local trails by foot, mountain roads by moto and 4x4s, or paddling the local rivers, this 12-acre secluded retreat is your perfect base
Sunday - thursday 11am-8:30pm friday - saturday 11am-9pm
Local small town prepares for return alien invasion of the fourth kind-caution:
Abductions may occur!
The Small Town of Spruce Pine North Carolina prepares for a “RETURN Alien Invasion of the Fourth” kind with a chance of such a close encounter show guests are cautioned that abductions may occur even during the day! The devastated small town of Spruce Pine recently hammered by Helene is working hard to prepare for a massive invasion!
On June 14th the town of Spruce Pine awaits the visitation of 50 thousands Alien and UFO enthusiasts with all those Interstellar visitors coming to the downtown Main Street Festival in hopes of spotting actual proof that Aliens really do exist! Spruce Pine, NC on
Oak Avenue.
Alien Lovers and UFO believers don’t want to miss the Spruce Pine Alien Festival and hear the latest information from the Spruce Pine Alien experts, scientist & researchers on the local area sighting, as well as, the recent shoot downs of Unidentified flying objects over Alaska, the US and Canada and recent sightings in Spruce Pine and surrounding Mountain towns and woodlands.
The Sky Tribe UFOXPO is coming back to the small town with big Names like Congressional whistleblower DC Long, Robert Earle
White, Anthony Esemplare and other notables will be coming to Spruce Pine to Speak at the UFO XPO Speaker Conference to be held at the Cross Street Commerce Center. The Speakers will also be researching the local area’s rash of sightings in the small town and meeting with local citizens to discuss recent phenomena within the last few years.
Spruce Pine Alien Festival Press Office
Show director: Sherry Sautner Show office: 828-688-1148
Attention All news and media Outlets.
Festival: Spruce Pine Alien Festival / Music Festival / UFO / Alien Speaker Conference.
Speaker conference-sky tribe Ufoxpo
Date: June 14th, 2025
Location: Downtown Spruce PineOak Avenue Website: www.sprucepinealienfestival.com
A TRULY UNIQUE AND EXCEPTIONAL CLASSICAL BALLET EXPERIENCE!
Kingsport Ballet provides Vaganova Method ballet classes for dancers of all ages and skill levels. Our students enjoy a world-class ballet education and professional performing opportunities in a fun and welcoming environment.
Under the Artistic Direction of Leonid Flegmatov
BALLET + POINTE • CONTEMPORARY
ADULT BALLET • PROFESSIONAL COMPANY
ANNUAL FUNDRAISER GALA AND SILENT AUCTION!
Ballet AND Bubbly
Friday, April 25, 2025
DropthekidsoffatKingsportBalletforclassandheadtoMommaD’sfortastybitesandcocktails! KingsportBallet:201CherokeeStreet | MommaD’s:243EastMarketStreetinDowntownKingsport
Kingsport Farmer’s Market
Visit KingsportBallet.org for tickets and details!
