JUNE | JULY 2022 COVERING MOUNTAIN TOWNS OF EAST TN, SOUTHWEST VA & WESTERN NC
THE OPEN ROAD BIKEFEST
Kick-off the exhibition “The Open Road: The Art of the Motorcycle,” coming June 16 to William King Museum of Art in Abingdon, VA, with the Open Road BikeFest! The Open Road BikeFest is a week long celebration of the motorcycle lasting June 22 - June 25, 2022 at locations across Abingdon and Bristol, VA.
Begin BikeFest at William King Museum of Art where you can explore vintage bikes and motorcycle memorabilia in the exhibition, “The Open Road: The Art of the Motorcycle.” Plus bike rallies, block parties, bike rides, live music, and more!
Stay in Abingdon, VA, for the Open Road BikeFest and never miss a moment of the fun. Plan your route ahead of time with Appalachian Backroads, your complete guide to routes in Southwest Virginia, or The
Southern Dozen, your complete guide to routes in Northeast TN.
Indulge in Abingdon’s award winning Small Town Food Scene at over 30 independently owned restaurants. Finally, relax for the night at Hampton Inn by Hilton. Receive special BikeFest rates by calling Hampton by Hilton’s front desk at (276) 619-4600 and mentioning William King Museum of Art or the Open Road BikeFest. More information about the Open Road BikeFest can be found online at williamkingmuseum.org/events.
JUNE 22
• Bike Night @ Texas Roadhouse, Bristol, VA, 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
JUNE 23
• Hampton Inn: Cruise In @Hampton Inn, Abingdon, VA 6:00 p.m.
Music: From The EDGE & Food Trucks
on Site.
JUNE 24
• Block Party at the Spring House Tumbling Creek Cider Company, Abingdon, VA, 6:00 p.m. Music: Florencia and the Feeling, Annabelle’s Curse
JUNE 25
• Black Wolf Harley- Davidson: Ride to BikeFest, 9:00 a.m. Registration. Begin your ride at Black Wolf HarleyDavidson in Bristol, VA, Saturday at 9AM and finish around 1PM at The Open Road BikeFest at Latture Field in Abingdon, VA.
FREE TO RIDE! Please consider donating to benefit William King Museum of Art, donations collected on site at registration. A SEPARATE $20.00 TICKET IS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE BIKEFEST EVENT AT LATTURE FIELD, PURCHASE THESE
TICKETS ON SITE AT REGISTRATION.
JUNE 25
• The Open Road BikeFest: Latture Field, Abingdon, VA **MOTORCYCLE PARKING ON THE GRASS, BRING YOUR KICKSTAND PLATE.** Gates open at 1:00 p.m. Featuring music, vendors, food trucks, beer garden, best in show contest & more! **BRING YOUR OWN LAWN CHAIR** TICKETS: $20.00 AT THE DOOR, Music: 2:00 p.m. Ron Short and the Possum Playboys | Phantom
VIRGINIA
NORTH CAROLINA
TENNESSEE
History of Flag Day and the Stars and Stripes
Flag Day is Tuesday, June 14.
This annual holiday celebrates the history and symbolism of the American flag. What do the stars and stripes in the U.S. flag represent?
Did Betsy Ross design the first flag? What’s the flag etiquette today? Learn all about Flag Day!
What Is Flag Day?
Flag Day is a celebration of the American flag that occurs each year on the anniversary of the flag’s official adoption, June 14.
What we know fondly as the “Stars and Stripes” was adopted by the Continental Congress as the official American flag on June 14, 1777, in the midst of the Revolutionary War. Colonial troops fought under many different flags with various symbols—rattlesnakes, pine trees, and eagles—and slogans—”Don’t Tread on Me,” “Liberty or Death,” and “Conquer or Die,” to name a few.
The Declaration of Independence made the adoption of an American flag necessary. Previously, each colony or special interest had its own flag.
On the 14th of June, Congress made the following resolution: “The flag of the United States shall be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white, with a union of thirteen stars of white on a blue field …” Official announcement of the new flag was not made until Sept. 3, 1777.
Made the First American Flag?
The origins of the Stars and Stripes have become part of American folklore. Although many people believe that Betsy Ross designed and sewed the first flag, there is no true proof of this. However, records do indicate that she made ensigns and pennants for the Philadelphia navy during the war. Various towns in colonial America have claimed to be the birthplace of the Stars and Stripes.
Based on colonial folklore, it has also been stated that the American flag was first flown in battle during the Revolutionary War at the Battle of Cooch’s Bridge in 1777. This may also be the stuff of legend.
However, what we do know is this:
The first American flag was designed to represent the 13 original colonies with 13 white stars on a blue field and 13 alternating red and white stripes.
One of the first flag designs had the stars arranged in a circle, based on the idea that all colonies were equal.
In 1818, after a few design changes, the United States Congress decided to retain the flag’s original 13 stripes and add new stars to reflect each new state that entered the union.
Today, there are 50 stars, one for each state in the union, but the 13 stripes remain.
When Is Flag Day?
Flag Day, celebrated annually on June 14, is not an official federal holiday, but its observance is traditionally proclaimed each year by the president of the United States. On Flag Day, many towns and cities hold parades and events to celebrate the flag, and the colors are to be flown at all government buildings.
Who
Beech Mountain, NC
SHAKEY GRAVES AND BENDIGO FLETCHER
June 18th | Gates open at 5:00pm - Show starts at 7:00pm
1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604
This show is open to all ages & is rain or shine. Children 5 years of age and under are admitted free. All tickets are General Admission. All ages, family-friendly event, kids 8 and under are Free. Bring your lowback beach chairs and blankets to chill on the lawn but we promise you will be dancing in no time to the electrifying energy of these southern rock country bands. However chairs will NOT be allowed within 150 feet of the front of stage. A wide selection of your favorite food and retail vendors will be available. Cold bottled water, beer, and wine are also for sale at the event through Beech Mountain Brewing Co. No outside food or drink. Good Vibes Only.
Linville, NC
GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN HIGHLAND
GAMES
July 7th - 10th
4210 Mitchell Ave, # 2 Linville, NC 28646
The largest gathering of Scottish Clans is truly impressive with hundreds of various tartan plaids, spectacular athletic competitions, excellent food, and Celtic music. It’s not every day that you can hear kettledrums and bagpipe bands in the North Carolina mountains. The Grandfather Games are held at the foot of Grandfather Mountain, 6,000 ft (1,828 m) because it reminds of Scottish Highlands. A lush meadow gets covered by about 200 colourful tents representing clans. Their members are dressed in tartan plaids and ready for action. Festivities begin with a collie herding sheep demonstration, the running of “The Bear”, a tough 5-mi (8-km) foot race to the summit with an elevation gain of over 1,500 ft (457 m). Next come competitions in heavy-weight Scottish sports like “Turning the Caber” and “Tossing the Sheaf, highland dancing, and bagpipe band parade. MacRae Meadows also hosts an open-air market near festival grounds where visitors can try traditional Scottish clothes, shop for Gaelic gift items, sample Scottish meat pies and other treats. www.gmhg.org, Inquiries on vendor/merchant opportunity. gmhginfo@yahoo.com
West Jefferson, NC
BACKSTREET PARK SUMMER CONCERTS
June 17th - September 2nd (see exact dates below) | 5:30pm-7:30pm
Downtown West Jefferson, NC, 2nd Avenue West Jefferson, NC 28694
Spruce Pine, NC
BUTTERBEANS ON THE PAVILION STAGE
June 26th | 3:00pm
Orchard at Altapass Pavilion 1025 Orchard Rd, MM 328.3 on Blue Ridge Parkway, Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Taking their name from the popular Southern staple, acoustic folk group Butterbeans is comprised of pickin’ buddies Mary Ervin, David Williams, and Robert Gucwa. A product of their experiences and musical influences, they like to call their style “toe-tapping porch music”. Bringing down-home vocal harmonies, fiddle, banjo, bass, guitar, and harmonica, Butterbeans plays a broad variety of Americana styles including traditional and original music. Come tap awhile...or get up and shake a leg! Take a listen: https://youtu.be/l6KSkEbJ7bw then join them for a great free concert on the pavilion.
Burnsville, NC
BI-WEEKLY OPEN BLUEGRASS JAM AT HOMEPLACE & HOG HOLLOW
Next date: June 19th | 5:00pm
Homeplace Beer Company, 6 S Main St Area C, Burnsville
Jeremy Rilko & friends host a bi-weekly Open Bluegrass Jam at Homeplace and Hog Hollow. The house band will play a set of music followed by an invitation to join in the bluegrass jam! All ages and skill levels welcome. Bring an instrument and join in the fun! Jeremy Rilko is a talented banjoist. Rilko hosts and participates in a number of bluegrass jams throughout WNC. www.facebook.com/jeremy.rilko
HAVE AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE FEATURED HERE?
EMAIL MOUNTAINESCAPES10@GMAIL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION!
Free summer concert series held every Friday evenings June through – Labor Day weekend. Bring your chair, blanket or picnic and enjoy the sounds of traditional, old time, and bluegrass music for all generations to enjoy.
Backstreet Park Concert Series 2022:
June 17 – Steve Lewis & Susan Trianosky
June 24 – King Bees
July 15 – Lucky Strikes Trio
July 22 – Steve Lewis & Susan Trianosky
July 29 – Gap Civil
August 5 – Nobody’s Business
August 19 – Rock Bottom
August 26 – Mountain Laurels
September 2 – Sheets Family Band
Highlands, NC
HIGHLANDS MOUNTAINTOP ART AND CRAFT SHOW
June 25th-26th & August 2th-28th
49 Shelton St, Waynesville, NC 28786
Cool off in the mountain town of Highlands, NC, enjoy unmatched beauty, and visit an awesome arts & craft show all in the same weekend. Bring the family and explore waterfalls, take a hike, and visit the unusual shops in this famous little resort village.
And be sure to come to the Mountaintop Rotary Show. It is well known for high quality hand-made crafts and fine art, all made in the area. Crafts include rustic and fine furniture and other woodcraft, pottery, fabric crafts, leather products, bird houses, home made soaps, stained glass, baby items and much more, from about 80 vendors. But we won’t mind if you just come for the live music and kettle corn. Find the show on Pine Street in Founders Park between 10 and 5 both days. After your fun-filled day, check out our great restaurants and ice cream parlors. Visit www.moountaintopshow.com for more info or call (282) 318-9430.
Dandridge, TN
FOURTH OF JULY ON MABRY’S HILL
July 4th | 5:00pm - 10:00pm 1711 Dandridge Avenue,Knoxville,37915
Gather with us to celebrate Independence Day, the Declaration of Independence, and community. Enjoy great views, good food and beer, live music, fun games, great company and tours of the 1858 house. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and spread out on our 7 acres of greenspace near downtown and right off I-40. Our event recalls the spirit of 19th century Independence Day celebrations when communities gathered for patriotic revelry and enjoyment. Overlooking downtown Knoxville to the west and the Great Smoky Mountains to south, historic Mabry’s Hill enjoys a spectacular view of the fireworks presented by the City of Knoxville and revelers around the city and county. Take it easy with this laidback celebration. It is the perfect time to come chill on the hill! Take in the surrounding natural beauty and history. Savor food from Dia De Foods and other food trucks. Quench your thirst with beverages from Xul Beer Co. and other local breweries. We’ll also have several activities for kids and the young at heart including sack races, watermelon seed spitting contests, three-legged races, bocce, croquet, corn hole, and much more. Tinca Tinca will bring their retro-futuristic indie-rock and electronic sound for attendees to groove and enjoy. We’ll have a reading of the Declaration of Independence. Purchase tickets to join in a cake walk and possibly take home a delicious cake from a local bakery! Trotta Montgomery Realty Company will be back with Biscuit the pony! And the historic house museum will open for self-guided tours. Tickets for adults (16+) are $15 (includes two drink tickets), children (ages 5-15) are $5, members of Mabry-Hazen House are $10, and children under 5 are free. If you are a member and do not receive a discount code in your email, please let us know! All proceeds benefit our educational and preservation missions! Event will occur rain or shine.
Greeneville, TN
SOUND MUSIC The of June 17-26
Music by RICHARD RODGERS
Elizabethton, TN
Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II
Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE
BRUNO’S PARTY IN THE PARK
June 24th \ 7:00pm
Suggested by "The Trapp Family Singers" by Maria Augusta Trapp
Directed by Glenn Patterson
Kiwanis Park is located at the intersection of G Street and Carter Boulevard, Elizabethton, TN. Join us at Kiwanis Park on Friday, June 24 for a special event! Bruno’s Party in the Park is a fre e community event which will offer free inflatables, magic shows, hot dog cookout, and a special showing of Encanto, beginning at dark! Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit back, relax and enjoy the night with us! Brought to you by Elizabethton Parks and Recreation, Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library, and Carter County Drug Prevention Coalition
Bristol, TN
$16
$12
June 17-26
Music by RICHARD RODGERS
Lyrics by OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN II
Book by HOWARD LINDSAY and RUSSEL CROUSE
Suggested by "The Trapp Family Singers" by Maria Augusta Trapp
Directed by Glenn Patterson
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE FOURTH!
For many, the 4th of July is an excuse to relax in the sun, toss back a few drinks, and watch fireworks with their family and friends, but the history of Independence Day is much richer and more exciting than one might believe.
Here are some fun facts about the U.S. birthday that might surprise family and friends.
1. We Didn't Actually Declare Independence on the 4th of July! The official vote actually took place two days before and the “Declaration” was published in papers on July 4.
2. The Designer of the 50-Star Flag Lived in Lancaster, Ohio- Robert In 1958, a history teacher assigned a class assignment to redesign the national flag as both Alaska and Hawaii
neared statehood.
Robert G. Heft, who was 16 at the time, designed a new flag using the old 48-star flag and $2.87 worth of blue cloth and white iron-on material. His design earned him a B-minus to which he challenged by sending it to Washington D.C. to be considered by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
According to his obituary, Heft was one of thousands to submit a flag design but he was the only person who actually stitched together a flag and shipped it to D.C.
Once the flag was selected, Heft's grade was rightfully changed to an A. His design became the official flag in 1960.
3. Americans Will Enjoy 150 Million Hot
Dogs During the 4th According to the National Sausage and Hot Dog Council (NHDSC), Americans are expected to eat 150 million hot dogs over the July 4th holiday. This is part of an estimated 7 billion that are expected to be eaten during the summer season from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
4. Only Two Men Signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776Charles Thompson and the infamous John Hancock were the only two men who actually signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The other 54 delegates signed over the course of the next month.
5. There is Something Written on the Back of the Declaration of Independence... and no, it isn't a treasure map written in invisible ink.
According to the History Channel, a simple message is written upsidedown across the bottom of the signed document that reads, "Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776."
6. One Signed Later Recanted the Declaration of Independence! Richard Stockton, a lawyer from New Jersey, became the only signer of the Declaration of Independence to recant his support of the revolution after being captured by the British in November 1776 and thrown in jail. After years of abusive treatment, and his recanting of loyalties, Stockton was released to find all of his property destroyed or stolen by the British. His library, one of the finest in the colonies, was burned to the ground.
7. We Love Fireworks... Fireworks date back as a tradition of Independence Day as early as the first anniversary in 1777. John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that he wanted Independence Day to be celebrated with pomp, parade, shows, and “Illuminations.” This original letter was written when Adams presumed that Independence Day would be celebrated on July 2. Now Americans spend more than $1 billion on fireworks each year.
8. Bottoms Up With 2x the Rum
On the second anniversary of Independence Day in 1778, American troops were fighting the American Revolutionary War. During this time, George Washington ordered a double ration of rum for American soldiers to celebrate the holiday with.
of the U.S. flag? Turns out that you're in violation of the U.S. Flag Code. The U.S. Flag Code states that you are in violation if you sell or display any “article of merchandise . . . upon which shall have been printed, painted, attached, or otherwise placed a representation of [the flag... in order to] advertise, call attention to, decorate, mark, or distinguish the article or substance on which so placed.” That being said, in this instance, the Flag Code is not enforced or even enforceable, so don't worry - you won't get arrested by the Flag Police.
10. Bizarre 50th Anniversary Thomas Jefferson, 82, and John Adams, 90, both died on July 4, 1826 within five hours of each other on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
12. Every July 4, descendants of the signers of the Declaration of Independence tap the Liberty Bell 13 times in honor of the original 13 colonies.
13. One World Trade Center in New York is 1,776 feet tall to mark the year the U.S. declared its independence from Britain.
14. John Adams believed that American independence should be celebrated on July 2, as that’s the actual day the Continental Congress voted for independence in 1776.
15. Annoyed that Independence Day wasn’t celebrated on July 2, Adams reportedly turned down invitations to July 4 celebrations throughout his life.
9. Wearing Old Glory Violates The U.S. Flag Code! How many of you own a flag t-shirt, beach towel, shorts, headband, or any other item that is representative
11. A Little Late to the Parade July 4th was not deemed a federal holiday until 1870, nearly 100 years after the nation was founded.
Now that you are armed with these 15 fun facts, go forth and enjoy your barbecue.
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY FROM MOUNTAIN ESCAPES!
Lakeview Mercantile and Gardens - Planting Seeds of Love for Generations
Spring flowers and hanging baskets! Bedding plants, including vegetables and herbs, and garden seeds and all the supplies needed. New shipment of Burley Clay decorative pottery, clay pots & bird baths.
Compliment your yard with Studio M art poles and spring & summer flags, P Graham Dunn porch boards and countless other decor to make your yard and home a happy place.
#SPRUCEPINEROCKS
For over 60 years, Spruce Pine has welcomed rockhounds and gem and mineral enthusiasts to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains!
Since the early 1950’s Spruce Pine, North Carolina has been the host of the Festival and welcomed visitors from around the world to shop for beautiful jewelry, gemstones, minerals, beads, crystals, fossils and more! Even celebrities have been spotted at the Festival selecting their jewelry, gemstones and gifts! The Festival features gem, jewelry and mineral dealers from across the country showcasing their merchandise to fit every budget. Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring, a special stone for your own setting, a custom designed piece of jewelry or a special crystal display for your home, you can’t miss the NC Mineral and Gem Festival.
CELEBRATING OUR MINING HISTORY
“Ancients,” as the state’s earliest residents
were called, were pulling mica out of the Spruce Pine area 2,000 years ago, using it as money and to decorate graves, Alex Glover of the Feldspar Corp., wrote. Around 1744, Cherokee Indians mining mica, emeralds, aquamarine, and quartz also excavated the related minerals feldspar and kaolin and used ox-drawn carts to pull them to the coast, where the English bought it for ceramic wares.” (smliv.com)
We can’t wait to share with you some of our fascinating mining history!
Come on out and meet our vendors!
Our vendors come from around the country to showcase their beautiful gems, jewelry, minerals, silver, beads and so much more! Many of our vendors have been a part of our event for 40+ years!
OLD BARN winery
Pageantry, Art & Music
The NC Rhododendron Festival draws hundreds of visitors from all over the region and features the Rhododendron Festival Pageant, the Craft Fair with food vendors, children's activities, and live music throughout the day, as well as a classic car show, a 10K run, 2 nights of street dancing. Come discover our Small Town Mountain Paradise!
Here are some of the wonderful events within the festival to particpate in and enjoy!
NC Rhododendron Pageant
One of the area’s most respected and longest standing scholarship opportunities for young women.
As the Rhododendron Festival turns 75 this year, we want to celebrate that legacy. Rhododendron Queens from the 1950’s to today, have been invited to attend a very special evening showcasing that legacy. This night will
include opening number, interviews with Rhododendron Queens, talent from those queens, and a meet and greet session. The show will begin at 7:00 p.m. Ticket information will be provided closer to the date.
Rhododendron Craft Fair
Our Craft Fair is held along the Creek Walk on Friday from 12 pm - 7pm AND Saturday from 10am - 5pm. Free admission! Our yearly show offers exhibitors of talented local and regional artists & craftspeople and showcases a variety of musical performances.
Live Music
The Rhododendron Craft Fair showcases a variety of live music performances throughout both days.
Street Dances
On Friday and Saturday nights during the Festival, join us for the Rhododendron Square Dance. Dance
the night away on main street in downtown Bakersville.
Classic Car Show
We welcome everyone to join us for the Rhododendron Classic Car Show, held at the Quality Plus parking lot, across from the fire department, on Saturday during the Festival, from 9am until 3pm. We have 100+ cars, all makes and models. Awards include: Top 25, People’s Choice Best of Show. We have music, plenty of Golden Oldies music and plenty of food.
10K Run
The Annual Rhododendron 10K Run
will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2021 at 8:00am. A 1-mile walk starts at 8am. Due to course limitations, walkers in 1 mile only. The race begins at Gouge Primary School, 134 Laurel Street, in Bakersville. For more information, contact Bakersville Town Hall at 828-688-2113
MOUNTAIN PIECEMAKERS QUILT GUILD
ANNUAL QUILT SHOW “A Garden of Quilts”
ANNUAL QUILT SHOW AUGUST
5th and 6th, 10 am – 4:30 pm daily, inside the Town Center, Burnsville, during the Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair.
The Quilt Show features Large and Small Bed Quilts, Wall Hangings, Modern Quilts, Fiber Arts and Challenge Quilts with the theme Take Flight. Our booth at Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair will feature numerous hand crafted items.
Our 2022 Opportunity Quilt, Common Bride, will be on display in our booth and tickets will be available. The quilt is queen size, 88” square”, using Morris Fabrics donated by Fabrics in the Fray of Spruce Pine. The pattern is by Edyta Sitar of Laundry Basket Quilts. Buy tickets at mountainpiecemakersquiltguild.org
WIN THIS BEAUTIFUL QUILT! Mountain Piecemakers 2022 opportunity quilt is from the pattern “Common Bride” designed by Edyta Sitar of Laundry Basket Quilts. This beautiful queen size quilt- 88 inches square- is a combination of machine applique and traditionally pieced blocks. The entire quilt is custom quilted on a long arm machine by a member of the Guild.
You can purchase tickets at ountainpiecemakersquiltguild.org/ ticket-purchase or visit our website, mountainpiecemakersquiltguild.
org to view additional photos.
The quilt will be on display at our booth at the Mount Mitchell Crafts Fair along with handmade items for sale. Fabrics in the Fray Quilt Shop in Spruce Pine donated the beautiful Morris fabrics in the quilt this year.
Proceeds from our opportunity quilt ticket sale go to purchase fabric and batting to make Hero Quilts for local veterans and to create Project Linus quilts for children in need. Each year we award 50-60 quilts to local veterans from Yancey, Mitchell and Madison counties.
This year’s ceremony will be on Veterans Day at the Town Square in Burnsville, NC. The 2022 opportunity quilt drawing will be held at end of Veterans Day celebration. The quilt will be shipped if needed to the winner.
Mountain Piecemakers is a nonprofit 501c3 quilt guild and offers
educational opportunities for those interested in quilting as well as community service projects.
Catch the glow of vibrant health!
Your one-stop shop for all things herbal: large selection of bulk herbs, teas, powders, extracts, herbal supplements, essential oils, soaps, salves, lotions, and serums. Our gift shop is full of interesting herbal accessories for the plant-lovers in your circle PLUS classes and workshops.
423-518-1229
527 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN 37643 www.glowherbals.com
Hours: Tue-Fri 11:00- 5:00; Sat. 11-2 (extended hours for classes and events)
KOMBUCHA LEMONADE
Do you love kombucha? Us too! We mixed kombucha with lemonade to create a delicious and refreshing kombucha lemonade. No joke, this tastes pretty much like an Arnold Palmer.
What the what?
Yes, there are strains of live active cultures floating around in kombucha, but it is SO GOOD FOR YOU.
So this recipe makes so much sense! Fermented Tea + Lemonade…it’s basically a Kombucha Arny Palmer!
WHAT IS KOMBUCHA?
Kombucha is a beverage produced
Extended Hours on First Fridays & Cruise-In Saturdays!
by fermenting tea with a culture of bacteria and yeast. It’s made from sugar, tea, and SCOBY (Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast). The final product is fizzy and slightly sweet.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF KOMBUCHA
Improves Immune Health
Improves Digestive Health
Loaded with Probiotics Helps Reduce Blood Pressure Aids in Increasing Metabolism
Those are just a few. I found an amazing article about kombucha that breaks everything down here. It will even teach you how to brew your own kombucha, which I have not explored doing myself just yet :D
One of the main reasons that I drink kombucha is for the probiotic. I’ve met with nutritionists (both RD’s and holistic nutritionists) and they always recommend a probiotic. By drinking one of these a week, there really is no need for the probiotic.
EASY KOMBUCHA LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS
1 bottle of kombucha, plain or about 2 cups of homemade kombucha
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon coconut sugar
1 cup water
INSTRUCTIONS
In a large pitcher, mix together 1 bottle of plain kombucha and the juice from four lemons. In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of coconut sugar in water. Then pour the water into the kombucha/lemon mixture and mix.
Duck Crossing is a three floor one-of-a-kind antique store. Featuring everything from fine furniture, primitive findings, vintage clothing to new home decor items & gifts. You will also find local memorabilia and handmade crafts. Located in the heart of downtown Elizabethton, TN among more than 20 antique/gift stores & local eateries.
515 E ELK Avenue • Elizabethton, TN Open Mon-Fri 11-5:30 • Sat 10-6
@DuckCrossingElizabethton
Do you love kombucha? Us too! We mixed kombucha with lemonade to create a delicious and refreshing kombucha lemonade. No joke, this kombucha lemonade tastes pretty much like an Arnold Palmer.
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
YIELD: 4 servings
Serve on ice and with additional lemon wedges or for a punch of colr add blueberries.
We liked using Health-Ade Kombucha Ginger Lemon for this recipe! You can find it at your local Krogers, Publix or Food City.
Rare Tennessee Confederate Steel
Prior to the Civil War Thomas Sharp and J.T. Hamilton operated the Tennessee Plow Factory in Nashville, Tennessee. They took control of the operation on the 10th of August, 1859 from the former owner, A.W. Putnam. The Business was located on the Franklin Turnpike (8 th Avenue South in current day Nashville) about one mile south of the public square. The building was destroyed by fire on the night of June 28th, 1860. A combination of Putnam’s insurance, assistance from the citizens of Nashville and the hard work of Sharp and Hamilton themselves the business was rebuilt under the new name the Nashville Plow Works. The company manufactured all manner of agricultural equipment.
With the succession of Tennessee from the Union on 8 June, 1861, much of the industrial capabilities of Tennessee turned their attention to the production of arms and material to support the war effort. The Nashville Plow Works was no different, and turned from producing farm implements to edged weapons. They were literally following the bible verse of Joel 3:10, “beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears”. Records are not exact, but have been found
to show that the Nashville Plow Works first delivery of edged weapons was made on 4 October, 1861. The last record of any war time produced edged weapons being delivered is January, 1862. Nashville fell to Union troops on February 25, 1862 and a Nashville newspaper ran an article dated the 1st of April 1862, stating that both Sharp and Hamilton had been arrested for treason. The Nashville Plows Works managed to produce 800 enlisted cavalry sabers marked and unmarked Sharp & Hamilton between October 1861 and February, 1862.
They also manufactured a much lesser but unknown number of officers sabers marked Nashville Plow Works.
Today these sabers are some of the most collectible Confederate pieces
from the Civil War. An example of both the marked Sharp & Hamilton enlisted saber and the officer’s Nashville Plow Works saber can be found on Warroomrelics.com on the American Civil War edged weapons category.
A TRIP THROUGH TIME
Take a trip back in time to a slower-paced era when railroad travel was a way of life. Relive the romance of the rails when vintage trains provided an escape from the everyday routine. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum provides an interactive, historical experience that adds an extra dimension to your visit to Chattanooga’s popular attractions. Here you will find the only regularly scheduled, full-sized train ride in Tennessee. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is so much more than entertainment… It is your chance to experience the sights and sounds of yesteryear!
MISSIONARY RIDGE LOCAL
Our most frequent service trips called the “Local” for short, begin at our Grand Junction Station and take you over four bridges and through the pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel. Includes a turntable demonstration and brief tour of the TVRM restoration shop.
EXHIBIT ADMISSION
The special exhibits will be located in TVRM’s new exhibit building and include “TVRM’s First 60 Years,” a Railroad Post Office car display, and two exhibits by sponsor Scale Trains. This is the first use for this important addition to the TVRM Cromwell Road Campus.
HIWASSEE LOOP
Enjoy a 50-mile roundtrip through the beautiful lower Hiwassee River gorge. This 5-hour round trip takes you to the top of the famous Hiwassee Loop, where the tracks cross over themselves as they corkscrew up the mountain near Farner, Tennessee.
DINNER TRAIN
Our Dining Car Superintendent and his team of Chefs provide exceptional customer service and delicious food all prepared and served in historic dining cars. A meal on the Dinner Train is like stepping back in time and the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion!
Sequoyah Remembrance Day
Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore will observe Sequoyah Remembrance Day Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022 12:00-4 p.m. with free admission to the museum. Sequoyah dies in August of 1843, we do not know what day he died. So we’ve chosen the first Sunday in August to remember Sequoyah and his life.
“This is a day to remember the man who gave the Cherokee people their own written language,” said Charlie Rhodarmer, museum manager/ director. “In 5,000 years of human civilization, Sequoyah is the only person, not literate in any language, who created a written language for his people.”
Sequoyah was born circa 1776 in the village of Tuskegee, near modern day Vonore. He spent most of his life in the Overhill Cherokee area, where he began creating a Cherokee writing system.
After 12 years of work, Sequoyah finished the Syllabary in 1821 while living in Willstown, Ala. The Cherokee Nation adopted the Syllabary and within two years most of the Cherokee people had become literate in their own language. After living a brief time in Arkansas, Sequoyah moved to the Indian Territory, known today as Oklahoma.
In 1842 Sequoyah volunteered to go with other Cherokees to find a group of Cherokees that had left the Overhill area during the American Revolution and had headed toward Texas or Mexico. Sequoyah died on this trip in August 1843. There are several stories about how Sequoyah died and it is not known where he is buried.
“We invite people to visit the museum on Sunday and learn more about Sequoyah’s fascinating life and experience modern Cherokee culture,” said Rhodarmer.
The museum is located on Highway 360 in Vonore, about one mile from the Highway 411 intersection. For more information, call (423) 884-6246.
Marble Springs State Historic Site is located in Knoxville, TN. It is the home of John Sevier, Tennessee’s first governor. Boasting over 30 acres, the site interprets historic cabins, maintains hiking trails for the public, preserves as a wildlife sanctuary, is certified arboretum, acts as venue for weddings and so much more! Learn more about Marble Springs State Historic Site by coming by or visiting us online at www.marblesprings.net
Hours March through December:
Wednesday-Saturday: 10am-5pm, Sundays: 12pm-5pm
Daily Tours @ 11AM,1PM, & 3PM Self Guided Tours: FREE 1220 W. Governor John Sevier Highway Knoxville, TN 37920 865-573-5508
Need-to-Know Safety Tips for Summer Holidays
Summer holidays and beautiful weather are here! Use these pointers to keep your family safe all season long.
1. Lather on the sunscreen and bug spray, and stay hydrated. Long periods of sun exposure can lead to painful sunburns. Use sunscreen, and wear clothing and hats that minimize your skin’s sun exposure. Keep your family safe from bug bites by reapplying bug spray in accordance with the spray’s directions.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated, and help your body regulate its temperature by taking breaks and seeking the comfort of shade or air conditioning. And never leave children or pets locked in a hot car.
2. Be alert around water. Safety around water is especially important for children because drowning can occur in only a few seconds. One of the best ways to keep your children safe is to teach them how to swim. Life jackets are also a good idea for young children in pools, lakes or any other body of water.
Never dive into shallow water or an unknown body of water. Hidden underwater obstructions can cause severe head or spinal cord injuries that could lead to paralysis, and even death, if jumping head first.
3. Pool safety.
This year, a shortage of pool chlorine threatens to dampen summer fun in backyards across the country. And try to remember that chlorine
CLASSES AVAILABLE:
June
11th & 12th: 9am-6:30pm TRY
2nd, 18th, & 28th RANGER CAMP (8-12YR) 14th-18th: 9am-12pm
July OPEN WATER CLASSES: 9th & 10th: 9am-6pm TRY SCUBA: 7th, 16th & 27th KIDS CAMP (10-14YR) 11th-16th: 9am-1pm
is a critical part of keeping your pool clean and safe. A pool professional can provide information about whether alternatives to chlorine, such as bromine or purchasing and adding a salt water chlorine generator.
It is critical that you do not skip the important step of sanitation that chlorine can provide. Pools can become unsafe due to bacteria and other microorganisms that enter the pool with swimmers. Saving money by using less chlorine could put you and your family at risk for waterborne illnesses.
4. Monitor grilling and barbequing. Many people enjoy outdoor barbecues or picnics in the summer, but it’s important to keep food
5. Watch your family around campfires. While campfires are another favorite summer pastime, the potential for burns, especially to unsupervised children, is high. Watch your children around open flames, and make sure they understand fire safety.
at the proper temperature when outdoors. Keep cold foods generally below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent growth of bacteria. Hot foods should be consumed quickly after cooking, so they do not cool to unsafe temperatures at which bacteria can grow.
If using an outdoor grill, be sure to check carefully for foreign materials getting in your food. Things you might not think of, such as bristles from a grill brush, can get stuck in your burger and be accidentally swallowed and cause injury.
6. Exercise caution around fireworks. While beautiful and fun to watch, malfunctioning or misused fireworks can cause significant injury or death. Ensure that you are following all of the instructions, and only purchase fireworks from a reputable source. Make sure the area where you are setting off the fireworks is clear of spectators and anything flammable. Have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water ready to put out small fires or to smother any “duds,” and never attempt to relight a malfunctioning firework.
7. Stay up to date on severe weather. Summer weather can sometimes be unpredictable. Floods, tornadoes and lightning are all threats that come with summer thunderstorms. Plan ahead. Be sure to seek shelter immediately in the event of lightning or a tornado warning.
Summer is a beautiful time. With some planning, you and your family can enjoy the season and the summer holidays without injury. If we are needed, however, your local emergency department stands ever ready to assist you!
5030 Kingston Pike Knoxville, TN 37919
Hours:
Tue-Wed-Thur: 10-6
Fri: 10-5
Sat: 10-3
Sun-Mon: Closed
We take a look at one of our favorite rafting companies and all the fun they have in store for you summer adventure plans!
Ocoee River Rafting is our specialty. The Ocoee River is a whitewater GEM located in southeast Tennessee, Loaded with Class III and IV whitewater.
TRIP DOWN THE MIDDLE
“Are we gonna do THAT?” It’s the same question out of everyone who comes face to face with The Classic Middle Ocoee River Adventure for the first time. Seasoned whitewater rafters just sit back with a grin on their face as the bus continues on to the put-in below the dam at Ocoee No. 2 on Highway 64.
It all starts with a little rapid called Grumpy’s that is either going to start your trip off on the right foot OR remind you how important it is to paddle together with your boat mates. After a little team huddle, your crew will enjoy the eyeopening ledges of Broken Nose, the rolling waves of Slice and Dice and the fun little hole we call Second Helping.
Everyone enjoys a good Indian story around Moonshoot and the drops at Double Suck will wake you back up as you prepare for your photo opportunity at the infamous Double Trouble. t.
The Classic Middle Has Lots Of Surprises. The halfway point brings along the quarter-mile stretch called the Doldrums and the opportunity to relax and catch your breath before heading on down to Tablesaw and Diamond Splitter – two back to back Class IV rapids so no lilly dippin.’ Ride those waves at Western Flyer and see if you can get slung around in Slingshot right down to Cat’s Pajamas.
And for the big finale… Class IV Hell’s Hole and Powerhouse Rapid. Brace in, paddle hard and enjoy because as soon as the hole releases you, there are two more drops before you are home free.
In 1993, Adventures Unlimited was started by Carlo and Julie Smith. Passion for the Ocoee River and outdoors drove this ambitious couple to plant roots on a patch of land and grow their rafting company. Over the years, Adventures Unlimited has blossomed into a well-known and respected resort that strives to provide a memorable adventure for each guest.
The Adventures Unlimited resort sits on 30 acres of landscaped property that surrounds a naturally wooded forest which adds a rustic element. Our primary focus of the operation is whitewater rafting; however, we offer lodging, paintball, and food services as well at the Bus Bar Grill. Lodging ranges from primitive tent camping, full hookup RV sites, bungalows, and large cabins. The RoadKill Smokehouse is famous for our barbeque plate with all the fixings as well as the gourmet lunch provided on the Full River Adventure.
At Adventures Unlimited, the goal is to offer an array of adventures that will please the first-timer, adrenaline junkie, or a mix between the two. We place emphasis on facilitating fun, safe, recreational outdoor activities and unlimited adventures!
Little River Art is for Everyone!
Little River Artists create original paintings inspired by a variety of the pleasures and beauties of life. We have a plethora of original paintings including the luscious natural scenery throughout the Southeastern US, textural abstractions, surreal sunsets, vibrant animal portraits, and so much more!
The team is made up of seven artists based in East Tennessee who come from a variety of backgrounds, use a broad range of styles and mediums, and are connected by their singular love for painting.
We also produce archival quality giclées (art prints) from the original Little River Art paintings. Red Dog Master Prints, run by artist J. Austin Jennings and her son, Ben O’Neill, photographs and catalogues paintings to print on canvas using archival inks. Each giclée is finished with a hand brushed textural coat which adds a layer of protection.
Once coated, some of the giclées are rolled and shipped directly to reddogmasterprints.com customers. Other giclées are stretched and framed for sale.
Little River Art is for everyone! The greatest paintings from Little River Art find their way into the homes and offices of art lovers. The journey to get there could be through an art gallery, high end furniture store, or Little River directly!
There are a few ways an art lover can acquire a Little River Art painting.
First, contact us to see if there’s a local distributor of Little River Art in your area.
Next, visit Reddogmasterprints. com to choose from over 1,000 different images and sizes to get the perfect picture for your space!
And finally, come by the Little River Art Gallery located at 4313 Papermill Dr in Knoxville. We’ll be happy to greet you with a cup of coffee, warm conversation, and a tour of the gallery, art studio, and workshop.
