VIPSEEN May 2019

Special Feature:

The Fashion Issue ALSO INSIDE: Queen of Hearts Gala, 2019 Excellence in Business Awards, Food City Family Race Night, and much more

WHERE MEMORIES

Are Made!

LOCAL APPRECIATION

Special!

25% OFF Boat Rentals* *Mon - Thurs Only, must have valid drivers licenses from: Johnson City, Bristol, TN and Bristol VA, or Kingsport

423-878-3721

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4471 NORTH ROAN STREET • JOHNSON CITY • 423.928.6667

HOLE

at the

Gathering unofficial

TH

Calendar MAY 5

MAY 7 6:30pm Junior Achievement Tri-Cities Business Hall of Fame MeadowView Conference Resort and Convention Center Kingsport, TN 423-392-8841 juniorachievement.org MAY 8 7:30am Discover Bristol Pineapple Awards Bristol Train Station Bristol, VA 423-989-4850 discoverbristol.org MAY 9 11:30am 5th Annual State of the City, County, Town Luncheon Millennium Center Johnson City, TN 423-461-8000 johnsoncitytnchamber.com 6:30pm Pie Wars: Return of the Dough Carnegie Hotel Johnson City, TN yptricities@gmail.com

6:30pm Pitches and Pints 2019 Venue at the King Centre Johnson City, TN startuptri.com

MAY 11 9am 2019 Color Splash Spring 5K 1011 Southwest Avenue Johnson City, TN 423-502-6910 gotrnetn.org 6pm The Grand Tour Gala: London MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center Kingsport, TN 423-230-4160 kbgc.com MAY 12

MAY 13 8:30am Dawn of Hope Annual Golf Classic Johnson City Country Club Johnson City, TN 423-434-5600 dawnofhope.com

MAY 2019

MAY 17 11:30am Isaiah117 House Golf Tournament Elizabethton Golf Club Elizabethton, TN 423-773-5677 isaiah117house.com 5:30pm Kingsport’s Spring Wing Fling Kingsport Farmers Market Kingsport, TN 423-392-8800 kingsportchamber.org MAY 18 10am Wayne Scott Strawberry Festival Unicoi Elementary, TN Erwin, TN 423-735-0517 recreationaide@unicoitn.net 10am 2nd Annual Summer Fest Covered Bridge Park Elizabethton, TN 423-470-3410 Kidslikeuscommunity.org 10am 2nd Annual Boss of the Toss Cornhole Tournament The Mall at Johnson City Johnson City, TN 423-461-8000 johnsoncitytnchamber.com 12pm Racks by the Tracks Kingsport Farmers Market 423-392-8800 kingsportchamber.org

MAY @ BARTER THEATRE:

Shrek: The Musical

Music by Jeanine Tesori, Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire

2

Follow the adventures of Shrek, his sidekick Donkey, Princess Fiona, Lord Farquad and every fairytale adventure you know and love in this Tony Award-winning musical based on the blockbuster DreamWorks Animation film. A little green ogre grows up to be a big, disgusting, layered hero. Shrek finds himself on a life-changing journey to rescue the feisty princess with his witty and sarcastic friend, Donkey. Along the way, they encounter a lively cookie, a flirty dragon, and a small villain. Can this grumpy, ugly ogre find it in his heart to love someone as ugly as himself? We promise magic to every degree from the music to the costumes and sets.

This is a performance the entire family will enjoy! may 2019

6pm 1st Annual Cherished Mom Gala Venue at the King Centre Johnson City, TN cherishedmom.org 6pm AAME Arts Achievement Gala Holiday Inn Bristol, VA 423-652-7462 aamearts.org/gala 6pm Boots and Bow Ties Woodbrook Farms Abingdon, VA Tiffany.willis@balladhealth.org MAY 20 9am Kingsport Chamber 27th Annual Golf Scramble Ridgefields Country Club Kingsport, TN 423-392-8800 kingsportchamber.org MAY 23 4pm Kingsport Putt-Putt Fun Center Fundraiser for Kids Like Us, Kingsport Putt-Putt Fun Center Kingsport, TN 423-470-3410 Kidslikeuscommunity.org 6pm, Steak ‘n’ Burger 2019 Boys and Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County Elizabethton, TN 423-543-2946 bgecc.org

MAY 24 6:30pm Run for our Veterans 5K Johnson City Washington County Veterans Memorial Johnson City, TN 423-946-0519 thegoosechase.org Richard Leigh Songwriters Contest Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center Abingdon, VA 276-739-2456 kcrowe@vhcc.edu MAY 25 9am Plumb Alley Day 2019 Plumb Alley Abingdon, VA abingdonkiwanis.org MAY 27

MAY 27 9am, Memorial Day Event Memorial Park Community Center Johnson City, TN jctn150.com

Other shows this month

MADAME BUTTERMILK THE CAT IN THE HAT CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH EXIT LAUGHING

Visit www.BarterTheatre.com or call 276-628-3991 for show times and to purchase tickets.

Contents

MAY 2019

FEATURES

6

COVER STORY WM KING CLOTHIERS Tradition is King

9

SPECIAL FEATURE SPRING FASHION

A sample of some of the areas best kept secrets, from boutiques to high-end clothing manufacturers right here in our own backyard.

30

SPECIAL FEATURE THE AUTISM JOURNEY One family’s struggles and achievements after diagnosis.

50

SPECIAL FEATURE AN EVENING WITH JANE SEYMOUR

Jane Seymour visits Barter Theatre this month.

DEPARTMENTS

16

VIPBEAUTY

SPRING INTO FASHION

60

VIPTASTE

on the cover

William King, Owner, Wm King Clothiers Bristol, Tennessee Special Feature:

The Fashion Issue ALSO INSIDE: Queen of Hearts Gala, 2019 Excellence in Business Awards, Food City Family Race Night, and much more

Photography by Nathan Mays Photography

SKINCARE PRODUCTS FOR MEN & WOMEN

72

WITBIT

I’M THE CLEAR AND OBVIOUS CHOICE IN 2020... vipseenmag.com

3

contents

VIPSEEN

EVENTS

FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker angela@vipseenmag.com

JOHNSON CITY 22 3rd Annual Jazz Festival 25 2019 Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza 27 Bunny Hop 5K and Kids Dash 28 3rd Annual Adult Prom 29 Keller-Williams Inpirational

Luncheon 2019 32 Johnson City/Jonesborough/

Washington County Chamber 2019

Excellence in Business Awards 34 Cocktails Meet Me in the Vineyard 36 Walk to Make Alzheimer’s a Memory 38 Old Hollywood Glamour

(University School Foundation Fundraiser) 40 Once Upon A Time Celebration 41 3rd Annual Run for Your Buns 42 United Way Washington County Stand up

for Hunger Comedy Show 43 SBDC Day: Rising Star Press Conference 44 Covenant Presbyterian Hosts Women in

Politics Panel 45 TownView Ribbon Cutting

CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares angelica_a@vipseenmag.com EVENTS COORDINATOR Allison Galloway allison@vipseenmag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Nathan Mays COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch BEAUTY EDITOR Sherri Jessee ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams lark@vipseenmag.com Kirsten Hall kirsten@vipseenmag.com Beth Muncy beth@vipseenmag.com

Whitney Carr whitney@vipseenmag.com Morgan King morgan@vipseenmag.com

ABINGDON 71 The Fifty-Fifth Annual Queen of Hearts Gala 72 Urban Pathway Kickoff BRISTOL 73 Miss Virginia Sendoff 75 Bowling for Kids Sake 76 Partner in Change Luncheon 79 Great Gatsby Gala 80 Food City Family Race Night JONESBOROUGH 48 Easter Extravanganza LIMESTONE 53 Joggin for the Noggin 2019 ELIZABETHTON 70 Downtown Elizabethton Art Walk

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may 2019

KINGSPORT 54 CMD Spring Fling Charity Golf Tournament 55 H.O.P.E. Zombiewalk 56 Susan G. Komen East Tennessee Race for the Cure 58 Ribbon “Chopping” & Grand Opening 59 Empowerment Workshop 60 Western Derby Dinner and Silent Benefit Auction 64 Putting Against Polio 65 Blue Ribbons & Bluegrass 66 12th Annual Symphony Gala: Once Upon a Time

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Courtney Carberry Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Allison Galloway Lexie Little Beth Street Haley White PHOTOGRAPHY Courtney Carberry Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Allison Galloway Lexie Little Haley White DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION Barbara Werner DISTRIBUTION Charles Kilgore Martin Kilgore Mark Kilgore Leslie Morgan VIPSEEN, Inc., Tri-Cities 151 E. Main Street, Suite 5 Kingsport, TN 37660 423.398.5321 vipseenmag.com

She Says...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

It

seems like every time I turn on the news, I feel that the world is becoming a dark and infinitely troublesome place to live. I get afraid of the things to come for my children and their children after. To be honest, it’s hard to trust that things will be better and that people can learn to just love one another and accept each other for who they are. Then I go to a local event, or I hear about a local charity that has donated thousands of dollars to help others, or that a local teen is collecting shoes for those less fortunate and my hope is restored.

In my years of being part of this region, I have seen the amazing things that individuals, nonprofits, local businesses, and even small groups of friends have been able to do to uplift their fellow neighbor in need. Giving is part of our core and it is in our nature to want to see people do better and to live happy lives. God tells us that we are called to “copy His giving, to be mini-pictures of His infinitely large heart.” He is the giver of every good and perfect gift, but we must mirror that here on Earth.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)

There are many people that think that they cannot give because they do not have money to spare. Honestly, money is just a small part of the whole picture. Put on your work gloves and weed the neighborhood garden, put on a tool belt and help build a house, be a big brother or sister to a child in need, volunteer at your local animal shelter, hold a newborn baby that is in need comforting, or donate the clothes your children have outgrown...there are so many ways that you can help your community.

Thank you for picking up this issue of VIPSEEN. I hope to see you out and about helping spread love and hope throughout our region.

Angela Baker, angela@vipseenmag.com

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may 2019

cover story VIPSEEN

W m K ing C lothiers

T radition is K ing STORY BY LEXIE LITTLE

T

hey come from all over. Sellers from Australia and Germany.

Customers from Nashville, Denver, and San Francisco. East coast to west – all seeking exclusive, traditional, tailored clothes from one of this region’s only traditional haberdasheries: Wm. King Clothiers.

William King knows clothes. His father, Bill King, owned his own stores in Bristol and Johnson City during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. He grew up roaming the store after school, and when he got the chance to learn the retail business from one of the finest outfitters in the South, Ham Stockton of H. Stockton in Atlanta, Georgia, he moved to learn how to trade in tradition.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY

“Fortunately, I got to work for Mr. Stockton,” King says. “It’s one of the best stores in the country. He kind of took me under his wing and taught me everything.”

At age 24, with a deeper knowledge of retail, King returned to his roots in Bristol. As leisure suits replaced the era of three-button suits in the 1970s, his father phased out his stores and founded Charter Data Systems, the first company to run data processing for specialty retailers. King knew, however, that tradition never dies. He acquired his own storefront lease in 1981, and Wm. King Clothiers opened for business.

“I worked for my dad a couple of days and was like, ‘I can’t do this,’” he says of the data company. “‘I want to open a store.’ He said, “Well, I think you’re a little too young to do it,’ and I said, ‘I think I’m ready.’

He said, ‘Well, let’s go for it.’”

Went for it he did.

Thirty-eight years later, the retail shop specializing in men’s clothing continues to outfit males of all ages, beginning with the basics and catering to customers. From a simple navy suit to updated traditional apparel, Wm. King Clothiers seeks to provide “clothing and sportswear that you will not find on every street corner.” In-house design and unique brands from across the globe adorn the walls of the State Street

store in Bristol, peppering the walls with pastels for spring and pants and shirts with myriad designs.

King designed his own signature Popover shirt popular among customers for its comfort and rarity. With only a few made in each pattern from three manufacturers, patrons purchase singular pieces suited for special occasions where one won’t want to match.

“You walk in a party or something, you’re not going to see many of them there,” King says. “I mean, especially if you live here and you’re out of town [and] walk in with a popover shirt...each month, we’ll get four or five new items, and when we buy them, we’ll only buy like four so you don’t see yourself all over Bristol.”

The Popover features only four buttons, pocket with a flap, a cutaway collar with buttons to hold it down, locker loop, and elbow patches.

“It’s our shirt,” King says. “It’s made exclusively for us. We have three manufacturers that make it, and they will not make it for anyone else.”

Just as King provides a variety of clothes, he serves a variety of customers. Uniqueness remains key in clothing, but King also realizes it remains key with customers. Each customer prefers different cuts, brands, and colors. Each customer requires different measurements, articles, and attention. Each customer lives and experiences different times and trends.

King outfits them all.

However, he notes online shopping as an impediment to the work of specialty retailers, especially in attracting younger patrons. The ease with which young men can click, buy, and receive clothes attracts a generation absorbed in the information age. But a lack of information hinders their purchasing process: Amazon cannot measure a man from head to toe, so how do buyers know clothes will fit or suit their style? vipseenmag.com

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cover story VIPSEEN

Without exact measurement, they won’t.

“The younger folks really are missing out by not going to a store somewhere [and] being taken care of,” King says. “Part of the fun is going to a brick and mortar and getting to know people...we can put a tape measurer on you and fit you properly.”

Proper fit aids comfort and, ostensibly, careers. College career center websites often provide guides for how to impress at interviews; well-fitting, appropriate clothing makes the grade as a major factor.

Though some employers gravitate more and more to informal attire, studies like a 2014 analysis from Yale University show more formal attire improves confidence and productivity. Researchers observed 128 men between ages 18 and 32 in mock buying and selling negotiations.

Those dressed in sweats and sandals averaged profits of $680,000 while those in suits averaged $2.1 million in profit – three times their casual counterparts.

King strives to provide updated traditional dress suited to an increasingly casual world, one which still requires hard work and drive to achieve profit.

“You get up in the morning and put on a suit that fits great and your favorite tie, and it’s like, ‘I feel pretty good today,’” King says. “‘I’ll probably work harder today than I would if I were in cargo shorts and a t-shirt.’”

Customers can peruse swatches for success while swilling some gin in an alcove near the back of the store. The relaxed environment allows King to build rapport with customers and understand their needs to best serve them and their interests, whether they be classic American or more modern and global.

While Ralph Lauren, which celebrated 50 years as an American retailer last year, endures as a creator of classic looks, other established brands allow patrons to branch out in style while keeping a traditional edge.

Wm. King Clothiers remains one of only a select few retailers in the United States that sells the German brand Brax. Founded in 1888, Brax designs jeans and pants with postwar origins aimed at progress. In 1950, master tailor Bernward Leineweber launched his “trousers of progress” for “discerning customers of all tastes.” His belief continues, even in modern times. Days of pleats have passed, but flat front options and the Brax pants seem favorable to many customers looking to evolve.

As sales expand, King looks for new ways to connect with customers.

Last year, he ventured into publishing with the first issue of Wm. King Clothiers Magazine highlighting new apparel from designer collections and lending commentary on travel, food, drink, and the automotive industry. Working with vendor partners and Indianabased Tufts Communications, King and his associates assembled the 31-page publication with articles like “Italy for Foodies” and “Porsche Power Revolution” to appeal to their VIP customers.

But to King, each customer is a VIP. “That’s been the fun thing – to get to know people,” King says. “We just like taking care of people.”

For Wm. King Clothiers, customer care never goes out of style.

SPECIAL EVENT:

JUNE 20th, 2019 The New York Times called him a style expert, and now, author David Coggins comes to Wm. King Clothiers on State Street in Bristol, Tennessee, to sign his books detailing men’s fashion and manners on June 20.

Coggins, a contributing editor at Condé Nast Traveler and author of two books, has written for multiple publications like Esquire and the Wall Street Journal.

An avid fly fisherman, Coggins often writes about fly fishing, travel, tailoring, design, and drink.

His 2016 book Men and Style made the New York Times Bestseller list.

He published a follow up, Men and Manners, last year. Taking a casual tone to talk truth about men’s style and manners, Coggins’ work appeals to the haberdashery crowd and beyond.

“The people that have bought it, that’s all they want to wear,” King says.

“They have nailed it. This is as good as it gets...they’re jean cut.”

“We do trunk shows a couple times a year, but this is really cool,” William King says. “We’re not doing it to get people in here to buy another pair of socks. It’s to meet this author and fly fisherman.”

Breathable pima cotton and silk blend to form the prevailing pant.

King says the five pocket jeans, which come in four washes, also sell well among loyal followers.

King hopes the Bristol community will come out to meet Coggins and pick up copies of his books largely lauded by critics and readers. He says both books make good gifts, noting Men and Manners as a book everyone should read.

Selling around 24 niche brands and original designs, King takes orders from across the country for particular pieces and styles. He says he ships options to cities as far as Seattle and San Francisco, from coast to coast, because modern technology helps to keep traditional looks alive.

8

“With the social media now, there’s not a day that goes by that we don’t send something out of state,” King says. “Especially our ties...there are people in San Antonio, Texas, that like our ties, and we’re sending ties all the time...we’ve established these relationships with people we’ve never met.”

may 2019

Calling New York home, Coggins frequently travels. King feels fortunate to have him stop in Bristol.

For more information on Coggins and his work, visit davidrcoggins.com For more information on Wm. King Cothiers, visit wmkingclothiers.com

2019 VIPSEEN

FASHION ISSUE 10

The Powerhouse of Beauty Prestige Aesthetics and Sher Extensions

11

Monkee’s of Johnson City

12

Bristol-Based Turtleson Turns Global

16

VIPSEEN Beauty: Spring into Fashion

18

Wm. King Clothiers

19

Ta’Vie Boutique

20

VIP Tastes: Skin Care Products for Men & Women

vipseenmag.com

9

VIP fashion

BY SHERRIE BACON

RESTYLANE LIP TREATMENT

217 E. Unaka Ave | Johnson City, TN | (423) 302-0858 PrestigeAesthetics.com

CRYOSKIN TREATMENTS

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may 2019

VIP fashion QUAY SUNGLASSES $65

KENDRA SCOTT EARRINGS $110

TOLANI SILK DRESS $198

OF JOHNSON CITY

2515 N Roan Street | Johnson City, TN | (423) 328-9488 monkeesofjohnsoncity.com

ALL BLACK SLIDES $138

THACKER CLUTCH $108

vipseenmag.com

11

VIPSEEN Special Feature STORY BY LEXIE LITTLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY

Bristol-based

turns global The best goods, the best price, no shortcuts.

It’s the philosophy on which Bristol residents Greg Oakley and Chet Sikorski launched their now international retail brand, Turtleson, in 2012. Seven years later, the phrase resonates in the minds of those who happen upon the garments that make up the premium lifestyle label.

Few realize an international brand sits in the heart of Downtown Bristol, but co-founder Greg Oakley says that does not stop the company, driven by wholesale and some online sales, from growing and building a reputation of quality in a crowded market.

“There’s a lot of people knocking on the same doors right now,” Oakley says of the high-end lifestyle world. “Our model and our focus has been to get our product placed in the right retail locations across the country.”

The Turtleson team knows how to do just that.

Oakley and his longtime business partner Sikorski first dove into the world of design when they launched the Chester Gregg brand and then as two of the original three partners in Peter Millar, now owned by Richemont SA, the Swiss-based parent company of Cartier, Montblanc, and Chloé, in 2001.

With the minds for both business and art, the Tri-Cities team found a niche market that remained untapped at the time.

“It was kind of a unique concept back in the early 2000s,” Oakley says. “When we did Peter Millar, we were primarily a retail brand selling to the [Wm. King Clothiers] of the world.

Chet and I had a background in golf, and we took that to golf, and so you saw a lot of that lifestyle product kind of bleed into the golf market.”

But as popularity peaked, they realized the brand had become bigger than their budgets. Demand outpaced supply, and they needed to make a change to stay afloat. After moving operations to Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina, the original founders decided to sell.

Oakley ventured into the steel business at a tempestuous time for economic development. At the cusp of the recession,

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may 2019

prices had completely crashed, and commodity-driven steel primed for export proved impractical for profit. Oakley retained a penchant for retail, and an idea had struck him for a pair of flipflops before he left Peter Millar.

Having signed a non-compete clause when he relinquished reins, he needed to ensure his idea would not become costly at an already uneasy time. But a brand firmly focused on high-end golf retail gave little thought to flip-flops, leaving that area of the market open for Oakley to get back in the game.

He came out swinging.

“We came up with the name ‘Turtleson,’ which was basically the logo.

A turtle that looks like a sun,’” Oakley says. “You remember the ‘Artist Formerly Known as Prince,’ when he didn’t have a name? Well, that’s kind of what this was. It’s got the logo but no name. So, we kept calling it ‘The Turtle and Sun,’ ‘The Turtle Sun,’ and it ended up becoming ‘Turtleson,’ changing the u to an o.”

He sold Turtleson flip-flops online for a time and shelved the project during his steel ventures, but when a European company approached

Sikorski about selling raincoats in the United States, opportunity birthed an entire brand.

The partners decided the moniker “Turtleson” lent itself rain suits as well, and Sikorski resolved to sell a line of his own under the name for a while, with Oakley later joining his efforts.

“Really, about the time the economy had bottomed out, I said, ‘Well, gosh, I better get serious about something [other than steel],” Oakley says. “I started getting a little more involved with [Sikorski]. He was doing shows, and we were having some success with that. We said, ‘You know what, we love this business, it’s kind of what we know, why don’t we start adding more lifestyle pieces to it again and get back into the business with more of a full-blown, golf-inspired lifestyle brand.’”

Now, Turtleson appears on the PGA Tour, in retailers coast to coast, in bars, in boardrooms, in classrooms and country clubs, in the United Kingdom, and, perhaps down the line, in Asia. Going up against the likes of Vineyard Vines, Lacoste, Greyson, and, yes, Peter Millar, Turtleson finds its success in oxymoronic widespread secrecy – a best kept secret ready to emerge at any moment. For the team at Turtleson,

vipseenmag.com

13

“ VIPSEEN Special Feature

Despite international reach, Turtleson continues to buck convention and change the course of competition by keeping operations local. Oakley and Sikorski situated all offices and warehouses in Bristol early last year after managing distribution spaces in Atlanta, Georgia, and Pinehurst, North Carolina.

“

the focus lies in providing quality goods and taking care of customers, letting the buzz spread naturally.

last year after managing distribution spaces in Atlanta, Georgia, and Pinehurst, North Carolina.

As the competitive market continues to grow and online shopping floods the social feed frenzy, Oakley believes brands gain a positive symbiotic relationship in the noise – a buzz of people talking about their sweaters, shirts, vests, blazers, footwear, hats, socks, and other gear. Turtleson’s target buyer might reject constant marketing ploys, but a name built on reputation attracts the savvy shopper.

“Turtleson has built its brand around unparalleled workmanship and a remarkable attention to detail,” former Bristol mayor Jack Young told the Bristol Herald Courier. “We couldn’t be happier to welcome them home.”

“It’s not bad to be the best kept secret out there,” he says. “[High-end golf retailers] are always looking for that next brand, something cool and unique that they can tell their buddies, ‘Hey, listen, you need to check this out. This is pretty cool.’”

Reputation allows Turtleson to create new connections in the United States and abroad. They often partner with their wholesale retailers for mailers and discounts online, allowing partners to benefit from sales and building rapport and name recognition.

Sponsorships particularly benefited the Bristol brand when international clubs came calling.

“We’ve got four accounts in Ireland now,” Oakley says. “We’re selling in Barbados, down into Mexico, and it’s the same kind of thing. Most our business outside the U.S. is golf. Our first account in Ireland is a club called Old Head. It’s a fantastic club. [The executive] heard rumblings about us at the PGA show a couple of years and just wandered by and said, ‘You know, I’ve had a couple people mention your brand to me.

Would you mind if I sat down and take a look?’”

“She sat down, wrote an order on the spot, and we started shipping to Ireland.”

Despite international reach, Turtleson continues to buck convention and change the course of competition by keeping operations local.

Oakley and Sikorski situated all offices and warehouses in Bristol early

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may 2019

With operations under one relative roof, including embroidery, the Turtleson team sees triumphs and trials firsthand, taking responsibility for the entire business.

“It is a huge advantage. If someone picks up the phone, and calls us, and has to have something the next day, we can grab it and take it down there, run it through embroidery, and get it out,” he says. “If we were still using a third party, first of all, our product is in different places. We’d have to ship the product over there, get it in line between everybody else’s, so yeah, it’s a huge advantage.”

“Everybody else is outsourcing embroidery, and they don’t want any inventory, they don’t want to own anything. Meanwhile, we’re bringing everything under our control, and we like it that way.

You need to see the product. You need to see what you’re shipping out there.”

As for the future, Turtleson hopes to stay successful in the game stiff with power player competition. Clothing remains a need for most societies across the globe, and quality remains a desire for many. As long as there’s a want, there’s a way to drive business – in Bristol and abroad – through continued service and adaptation.

“The high-end apparel business is really a want business,” Oakley says.

“You’re never going to replace the tactile piece of that and the visual piece of that. I don’t see us losing that.”

Turtleson intends to keep the best goods at the best prices, taking no shortcuts.

by Sherri Jessee

SPRING INTO FASHION

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may 2019

MODEL: ABBY ROARK | HAIR & MAKEUP: SHERRI JESSEE | PHOTOGRAPHY: NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY

beauty

VIP

Specially Designed Cosmetic Bag Easily carry your essentials in one neat, concise space.

Having a bad hair day? Wear a hat and sleek your strands with a few drops of Moroccan Oil Smoothing Lotion.

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CALL TODAY! 1932 Euclid Avenue Bristol, VA 24201 276.466.2689 | sherrijessee.com

For more beauty tips, watch FAB FRIDAY Facebook Live Makeup Demonstrations at 8am every Friday and replay on VIPSEEN Live! on Facebook.

VIP fashion

Downtown Bristol 534 State Street Bristol, TN 37620 www.wmkingclothiers.com 423-968-9383

Since we opened our doors in 1981, Wm King Clothiers has brought to the area a highly curated collection of tasty clothing for men. We are confident in our point of view and have the greatest respect for dressing appropriately. Our look is more about style than fashion, and it would be our pleasure to be of service to you.

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may 2019

VIP fashion MARLYN SCHIFF THREAD WRAPPED HOOPS $25-$35 FREYRS SUNGLASSES $60

CLAIRE DESJARDINS PAINTED V-NECK SHIFT DRESS $168

3135 Peoples Street, Suite 301 | Johnson City, TN tavieboutique.com

LARGE FLAMINGO BEACH TOTE $28

DOLCE VITA - ROSE SUEDE PLATFORM SANDAL $100

vipseenmag.com

19

tastes

VIP

Skin Care Products for Men & Women

E

xtra Virgin Olive Oil is known to be rich in antioxidants making it the desirable fat of choice in your diet. Researchers agree 2-4 Tablespoons/ day is the amount to consume to derive all its heart, vascular, muscular, joint, brain and gut healthy benefits. However, those same antioxidants can work wonders on the outside of your body as well. When applied to the skin, the antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial elements found in extra virgin olive oil help prevent premature aging and cancercausing cells, provide UVB protection, decrease free radical damage on the skin surface, moisturize, hydrate, deep clean and aid in normal skin function. Continued use improves the resilience of the skin over time and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. The extraordinary sense of balance and nurturing delivered to the skin by extra virgin olive oil skin care products is utterly refreshing.

Unfortunately, the overwhelming majority of beauty and skin care products on the market try to promote olive oil as a cornerstone ingredient but invariably cut corners by using inferior products. The cosmetic industry is a well known dumping ground for old and inferior grades of olive oil. In fact, it is the perfect place to dispose of unsold, aged olive oil, refined olive oil and/or adulterated olive oil - a place where there will be no scrutiny or questions about the traceability of the olive oil being used.

The chemistry requirements for Ultra Premium (UP) Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) are the highest standards in the olive oil industry. Our superlative line of skin care products, created exclusively for us by The Olive Oil Skin Care Company, uses only UP EVOO making them of the absolute highest quality available. There are no added coloring agents, preservative or chemical additives, no SLS or BPA, and no blends of other oils, such as palm oils, known to affect the environment. These multiple award-winning, certified organic, hypoallergenic skin care products harness the benefits of UP EVOO and botanicals for your skin.

UP EVOO HANDMADE CASTILE SOAPS Originally created for royalty and those that could afford it, luxurious Castile soaps, sometimes referred to as Marseilles or French soaps, are made using olive oil. The mildest and most moisturizing of all soaps, they have been produced in the olive growing regions of Europe for centuries. Using traditional handmade cold processed methods, our UP EVOO Castile soaps retain natural glycerine and the goodness of vitamin E. Essential oil and botanicals are added after the soap has fully cured, each carefully selected for its beneficial natural therapeutic effects on the skin as well as its aromatherapy impact on emotional wellbeing. Rich in antibacterial agents, they penetrate the pores killing bacteria without drying out the skin thus making them perfect for people with eczema, psoriasis, or acne-prone skin. They are suitable for shaving with the added benefit of a softer beard and gentle enough for a baby’s delicate skin. Our soaps will last significantly longer than commercial soaps. UP EVOO Face, Hand & Body Washes are also available.

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UP EVOO SHAMPOOS & CONDITIONERS Studies show olive oil is not just beneficial for your heart and skin, the vitamins and essential fatty acids in olive oil naturally help hair grow longer, thicker and faster. The antioxidants fight free radical damage to the hair follicles and prevents premature graying and hair loss, while the fatty acids in olive oil keep hair soft and moist. Our UP EVOO rich shampoos and conditioners naturally nourish and moisturize the scalp.

They produce a creamy low lather that penetrates the scalp leaving your hair feeling hydrated, silky and soft. Adding moisture to dry, frizzy and curly locks, some customers report rough beards become much softer with their use. Like our soaps, they are perfect for all hair types and gentle enough for a baby’s delicate scalp.

UP EVOO MOISTURIZING BALM The nourishing, calming and hydrating properties of our original balm, sooth and moisturize even the most aggravated and sensitive skin types. With no coloring agents or additives, our all-purpose balm has a multitude of uses. Use it to sooth dry skin, nourish cracked heels, soften cuticles, smooth elbows, rehydrate hair tips, plump eyelashes, moisten lips, banish chaffing and treat diaper rash.

UP EVOO FACE MOISTURIZER & HAND CREAM An uplifting blend of essential oils and UP EVOO make our hand and face moisturizers ideal for daily use. Rich in vitamins B3, E and clinically proven Olive Leaf Extract, it hydrates, tones, lightens blemishes and age spots, tightens loose skin and encourages cell growth to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Skin will appear well nourished and radiant.

tastes

VIP

EZPZ Raspberry-Stuffed Croissants from The Happy Hearts Kitchen

INGREDIENTS Croissants or thick sliced sour dough bread Raspberries 3 Eggs 2 Tbsp. milk or Half & Half Mascarpone Cheese AOOC Persian Lime Olive Oil AOOC Coconut White Balsamic AOOC Raspberry Dark Balsamic DIRECTIONS 1. In bowl, mash some raspberries in Mascarpone cheese.

Set aside.

2. In small rectangular glass dish, lightly beat eggs and milk or Half & Half together.

3. Starting about a half inch in, slice croissants or sour dough bread horizontally 3/4 of the way through to create cavity for the raspberries.

4. Stuff cavity with raspberries.

5. Dip in egg mixture to coat.

6. Fry in Persian Lime OO. 7. Top with generous dollop of prepared mascarpone.

8. Drizzle with Coconut or Raspberry Balsamic or both.

Johnson City MARY LOUISE KNUTSON, BILL PERKINS, AND JAMES SMITH

KEVIN MASTERS AND MARTIN WALTERS

3rd Annual Johnson

GREG CROWE, SHELLEY CROWE, AND STEVE SCHEU

LANA GIBSON AND KATHIE NEAL

City Jazz Festival EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

The 3rd Annual Johnson City Jazz Festival featured three days of live jazz music from March 21-23. The event took place at the beautiful Carnegie Hotel. Guests were delighted by the music of eight swinging bands and a variety of jazz styles.

Steve Scheu of Time & Pay, one of the primary sponsors, noted.

“The response to last year’s festival showed there is a great desire to hear all the great jazz artists in our region.”

This year’s festival went above and beyond to showcase that amazing talent. Special guest artists included nationally renowned pianist Mary Louise Knutson and saxophonists Steve Wilson.

In addition to Time & Pay and Carnegie Hotel, other sponsors included First Tennessee Bank, Bank of Tennessee, Albert’s Pawn, Christian Schmid, Livewire Radio 103.9, Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union, caseSensitive Photos, Interstate Graphics and JRH Brewing creator of Ensemble, the signature beer of this 3rd Annual Johnson City Festival.

For more information visit johnsoncityjazzfestival.com.

KELA KIDD AND SANTIAGO, ETSU JAZZ

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MARLA MORRISON AND JACLYN CLENDENEN

DEB AND RICK

Johnson City COLBY DAVIS AND KATE RYAN

ANN AND ERNIE CARSON

Thirsty Orange

KAYLA IRESON AND JACKIE BROWN

KIM AND JIMMY

SCOTT BRUCER AND EMILY REYNOLDS

Brew Extravaganza EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

The 8th annual Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza took place on Saturday, April 13th. A short shower gave way to sunshine for a day full of festivities. Attendees had over 150 craft beers and ciders to sample and infusers unique to the festival. Craft breweries included local favorites and other breweries from all over the region that competed in the Thirsty Orange Brew-Off. Brewers competed in an open competition with unique, rare and obscure craft beers that you can’t find anywhere else. Guests also enjoyed live music from A Great Disaster and Love Unit and food from local food trucks.

MORGAN ROCHELLE AND TYLER COLBAUGH

The festival is the official closing event for Tri-Cities Craft Beer Week. For more information, visit www.thirstyorange.com.

SARA AND EMILY

JOE FAHEY AND KATHERINE EHRLICHMAN

STEPHANIE AND JASON

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Johnson City RHONDA BROWNLEE AND NORA BARTON

JOSEPHINE LEE MASTERS AND ANN BOWMAN

KENDALL AND SHELLEY MARTIN

Bunny Hop 5K

and Kids Dash EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

The 3rd annual Bunny Hop 5K and Kids Dash was held on Saturday, April 20th, the day before Easter. Rain showers didn’t stop runners from coming out to participate in this 3.1 mile course through Downtown Johnson City. After the race, kids of all ages had their chance to hop across the finish line in the 50 yard Kids Dash. The celebration of Easter weekend wouldn’t have been complete without an egg hunt at Founders Park afterwards that was sponsored by Munsey Church.

CLARA KAY AND CLAUDINE HUNT

BECKY AND JAMES DYE

For more information on upcoming events, visit blueplum.org.

The Blue Plum Organization is a group of volunteers that bring the community together and promote health, community and the arts! Their mission is to invest in Downtown Johnson City through cultural experiences that create lifelong memories for today and tomorrow.

For more information, please visit www.blueplum.org.

MANDY AND LOTTIE KINCAID RAVEN AND DANIELLE DIXON

SARA BONE AND LAYLA BOGGS

LAUREN AND DUSTIN BARRETT

BRITTANY, MICHAEL, AND MORGAN

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Johnson City

BECKY AND DAVID

AARON AND EMILY BUNTON

KRESTON AND HEATHER

3rd Annual Tri-Cities

Adult Prom Fundraiser

EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Friday March 29th at the Holiday Inn in Johnson City, Legacy Nightlyfe hosted the 3rd Annual Adult Prom to benefit the Southern Appalachian Ronald McDonald House. Guests had a chance to relive this special night with their friends and loved ones just like high school. The event included music from all decades by a live DJ and one of the Tri-Cities favorite bands, Southern Rebellion. This black-tie affair showcased some amazing attire and the best dressed couple were crowned prom king and queen.

FRANKLIN WRIGHT AND ELIZABETH ARWOOD

SHERRY AND RODNEY

MATT AND LAURA SKEEN

ALLISON WHITE

SOUTHERN REBELLION

The mission of RMHC is to create, find and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and their families. They envision a world where all children have access to medical care, and their families are supported and actively involved in their children’s care.

To learn more visit www.rmhsa.org.

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LISA AND KRYSTIE

may 2019

CHRIS AND TAMRA

KAYLA AND TONY

Johnson City KIM ALEXANDER-JOHNSON WITH CROSS COUNTRY MORTGAGE, DONNA LAMPKINS OF KELLER WILLIAMS, AND TAMARA ROLLER

KYM WARD, AGENT KELLER WILLIAMS, AND SUSAN LAMSON, CLASSIC TITLE

Keller Williams

Inspirational Luncheon 2019 EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

Every year agents and friends of Keller Williams Realty get together to raise money and get ready for “RED Day”, their company-wide commitment to improving the community. This year for RED Day, Keller Williams is supporting Jeremiah School, a school for students with Autism located in Johnson City. To prepare for this day of volunteering, KW held an Inspirational Luncheon during which guests learned more about what Autism is and how they can help Jeremiah School. In addition to this, individuals were able to contribute to Jeremiah School by donating to their cause, as well as bidding on items on their “Wish List”.

EMILY DANNON MAKES HER WAY AROUND THE TABLES!

JOE JOHNSON STARTS OFF THE BIDDING

Jeremiah School is a private, non-profit school for students ages 11-18 on the Autism spectrum. This school teaches academics, life skills, and social skills, while giving these students a safe place to be themselves and make friends. Jeremiah School finds what each student’s talents and skills are and focuses on what they can do instead of what they cannot do. To find out more about how you can help Jeremiah School visit jeremiahschool.com.

SCOTT ALBRIGHT, WON “FIRST LISTING” AND “FIRST CLOSING” AWARDS

JO CULLEN, PRINCIPAL OF JEREMIAH SCHOOL

PAINTING DONATED TO BE BID ON

AGENTS AND FRIENDS OF KW

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The Autism Journey VIPSEEN Special Feature

One family’s struggles and achievements after diagnosis

I

n 2005, I walked out of a consultant pediatrician’s office in England having been told that my two year old son had autism.

From that moment on, my life and that of my family, changed forever. While a diagnosis of autism is certainly not a death sentence, it is a life sentence. Autism cannot be cured, and every child that is diagnosed will spend the rest of their lives dealing with the consequences of their condition.

So what happens following a diagnosis? There is generally a period of grieving by the parents. The life they had envisaged for their child has just been changed irrevocably. The dreams of team sports, of college, of careers, of marriage, and grandchildren suddenly seem shattered. The path they had imagined is diverted to one that is hard to comprehend, full of fear, uncertainty, and unknown outcomes.

What comes next is often a compulsive drive to learn everything there is to know about autism. The ‘Tiger mom/dad’ mentality kicks in, and long nights are spent searching the internet for therapies, for dietary advice, for courses to attend, and books to read. Amazon spending reaches new heights as the temptation to buy every book ever written about autism is overwhelming – no stone can be left unturned in the drive to help your child.

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I followed this pattern. I soon became extremely knowledgeable about therapies and educational approaches that I was convinced would help my son, and I set out to find them. Here is where another unwelcome dose of reality hits hard. Those therapies cost huge amounts of money; insurance companies don’t want to fund them; there aren’t any specialists in the area; the schools cannot deliver the kind of education you think your child needs; your job does not allow you the flexibility to go to therapies and appointments. While discovering all this, you may be dealing with sleep deprivation, and struggling to meet the needs of the rest of your family.

It can be an extremely stressful, and emotional time for parents. There is added issue of the feeling of social isolation you experience; your child’s behaviors may be such that you cannot attend the social events that you used to. Everyday things such as going to the supermarket,

or eating in a restaurant can become impossible when your child has sensory issues that result in meltdowns. You can feel very judged by other people. Children with autism do not look like they have a disability; they are not instantly recognizable like those with Downs Syndrome, or those with a physical disability. So when your child is having a meltdown, you receive stares, tutting noises, and comments like “Can’t you control your son?”, “Why don’t you discipline him?” I have been reduced to tears in public on many occasions from such ‘helpful’ comments. Eventually you learn to have a thicker skin, and to politely educate those more ignorant people, but to begin with, it just hurts – a lot.

“

Autism is life long.

Children with autism will grow to be adults with autism. These adults will be living in our communities; we need to give them an appropriate education, and the skills to try and live independently and hold down a job.

“

Statistics say that having a child with autism costs approximately an extra $60,000 per year. Part of this is due to the cost of therapies and medications, but it is also due to loss of earnings. Many parents of children with autism have to give up their jobs or careers to manage the care and education of their child. I did. I was the principal of an elementary school in England. I loved my job. I had big plans for my future career. It ended when I realized that I could not meet the needs of my children (both the one with autism, and the typical one) and work full time in a demanding job.

The next hurdle that parents of children with autism face is navigating the public school system. Public schools do their best to provide for children on the spectrum, but they are not designed to meet these children’s needs. There is a lack of teacher education, large class sizes, a noisy and overwhelming environment, a curriculum that really doesn’t match the needs of a child with autism, a pace of delivery that leaves most behind, and a testing regime that completely fails to account for the different learning styles of students on the spectrum. On top of all this, comes the heartbreaking statistic that over 70% of children with autism experience bullying in school.

What is the result? Our children end up stressed, anxious, depressed, and eventually they shut down. They begin to fail academically, they start refusing to go to school, and the entire family is negatively affected. Often the result is an increase in medications, which clearly is treating the symptoms and not the cause. Combine all this with the fact that studies show suicide rates are higher among those with autism, and it is little wonder that parents feel so desperate about the

school years. After all, our children spend at least 13 years in school.

That can seem like an eternity when things are going badly.

I have always been a big believer in public schools, and I was a teacher and principal of a public school. However, I have come to clearly see that one size does not fit all, and the needs of children with autism are not being met. So what is a parent to do? They are truly between a rock and a hard place. The only alternative to public school has been homeschooling. Yet this is not a good solution either. Parents are not qualified teachers, and it removes the child from any social interaction.

It was the belief that here had to be a 3rd option, that led to me becoming principal of Jeremiah School. Jeremiah School was founded by a group of mothers who all had children on the autism spectrum.

None of them were succeeding in the public school system, yet home schooling was not a preferred option. They opened a school designed specifically to meet the needs of children on the spectrum. At this school, everything is built around the individual child. There are specialist teachers who are highly trained in teaching students on the autism spectrum; there is an in-house speech and language pathologist; and a curriculum that includes the teaching of life skills and social skills, as well as academics.

Autism is life long. Children with autism will grow to be adults with autism. These adults will be living in our communities; we need to give them an appropriate education, and the skills to try and live independently and hold down a job. In 2015 the estimated cost for caring for those with autism in America was $268 billion; this is estimated to rise to $461billion by 2025. It is critical that more services are provided for children as they progress through the education system, and also for adults who are out there in the community trying to find a job.

Some companies are already seeing the benefits of employing people with autism. Companies such as Microsoft, JPMorgan Chase, and Ford are now actively recruiting those with autism, as they recognize the incredible skills that some of these individuals possess. They are usually detail oriented, intensely focused, analytical, and are not distracted by the usual workplace social interactions. This can make them highly productive employees.

There is a great deal more awareness of autism now, which is slowly leading to improvements in services and an increase in accommodations from businesses and leisure industries. We now see sensory friendly movie theaters, autism friendly theme parks, special sessions at museums, and soft play places. Universities and colleges are developing programs that are designed specifically for students with autism, providing much greater levels of support to enable them to complete a degree.

This is all very positive, but a great deal more work needs to be done.

In 2018, studies showed that 1 in 40 children are now being diagnosed with autism. This has increased from 1 in 166 only 15 years ago. There is going to be an ever increasing need for specialist education, training, adult services, specialized housing, and open minded employers if we are to meet the needs of these unique and wonderful individuals, and the families who so lovingly support them. vipseenmag.com

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Johnson City MARK FIELDS, CEILYA CAMPBELL, AND STACY EVANS

JEFF DYKES AND DAN RAGAN

TINA STRONG AND TRACY GRAY

Johnson City/Jonesborough/Washington County Chamber

2019 Excellence in Business Awards EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce recognized some of the best in business the area has to offer at the recent Regional Business Excellence Awards.

“Never pass over on an opportunity to get excited.”, Tull told the audience. He also stated that passion, vision, and the will to inspire is why the nominees do what they do in the business community around the region.

The event was held at The Millennium Center on March 28th, 2019 and featured 32 nominees for awards in a variety of categories for both large and small businesses in the region.

The awards got a new name this year, replacing the Faith in the Future awards. Unlike previous years, this event had its guests moving and shaking. From Board Chairman Neal Poland’s bull horns, to Tom Tull with Ballad Health inviting the audience to do some moving and shaking of their own, the event was an experience.

Local media guru Josh Mancuso emceed this event.

He introduced Tom Tull, Chief Experience Office of Ballad Health.

Tull reminded the group of what makes great businesspeople and leaders.

The Culture and Community Award was broken down into small, medium, and large business categories due to the overwhelming number of entries. Preston Construction won in the small business with Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council placing second.

In the medium category, Tri-Cities Behavioral Therapy, a group that works with autistic children won the category with Greater Eastern Credit Union placing second.

In Culture and Community Large business, Advance Financial took top honors with AO Smith placing 2nd.

In the Environmental Support Category, the Appalachian Resource Conservation & Development Council won with Nuclear Fuel Services placing second.

Marketing & Innovation saw Tony and Teresa Treadway with their company Creative Energy as the winner with Tennessee Hills Distillery placing second, but no need to feel bad for them, as they took top honors in the Customer Experience Category with Advance financial placing second.

The window for submissions for the next Regional Excellence in Business Awards will open in November of 2019.

NICOLE BRIGGS AND KELLIE WEAVER

JESSICA AND STEPHEN CALLAHAN OF TENNESSEE HILLS DISTILLERY

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ERNIE RUMSBY AND SAM JONES

DAN RAGAN AND RHONDA CHAFIN

Johnson City NUCLEAR FUEL SERVICES – 2ND PLACE ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT

CREATIVE ENERGY – 1ST MARKETING AND INNOVATION

TC-MAC – 2ND PLACE COMMUNITY AND CULTURE: SMALL BUSINESS CATEGORY

SHAWN STAFFORD, SIERRA WHITE, AND DANIELLE BECK

ANDY MARQUART, KRISTINE CARTER, AND BRENDA WHITSON

MARY AND MATTHEW SMITH WITH WENDY MINUTOLO

NICOLE BRIGGS, DAN RAGAN, AND KELLIE WEAVER

MELISSA JOHNSON AND JOHANNA MONTGOMERY

WINNERS OF THE 2019 REGIONAL BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

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Johnson City JAIMI AND MATT WOLFE

Cocktails:

SARAH AND DILLON SHIPLEY

LEAH TILSON AND ROBERT PHIPPS

JENNIFER AND TOM SOIKE

Meet Me in the Vineyard EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Saturday, April 13th, the Junior League of Johnson City held their 4th annual Cocktails: Meet Me in the Vineyard at the beautiful Maple Lane Farm. The weather was perfect for the fun evening out. Dinner, a silent auction, and entertainment were enjoyed by the attendees.

ALYSE JORDAN AND ARIEL DENTON

The spring fundraiser is the League’s largest fundraiser and essential to their efforts to create a better community for all. This year’s funding will continue the League’s community impact through direct funding to agencies, leadership development and over 500 hours of volunteer assistance to health initiatives.

The Junior League of Johnson City is a non-profit organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

For more information, please visit juniorleagueofjc.com or call (423) 375-9174.

SHELLY MOORE AND TARA CASEY CHAD GREEN AND BRITTANY LEE

FUND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

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WESLEY GARLAND, KELSEY FRAZIER, AND EMILY LANE

MEG GREER AND STEPHANIE CARTOZZO

Johnson City DOBYNS-BENNETT HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM

DANIEL KILGORE LEAVES HANDPRINT FOR THE “ALL-STAR HALL OF FAME”

PEOPLE OF ALL AGES GATHERED FOR THE WALK!

Walk to Make Alzheimer’s a Memory EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

Alzheimer’s Tennessee held their Light the Way Walk at Memorial Park Community Center in Johnson City on Saturday, April 6, 2019. Alzheimer’s is a progressive and terminal form of dementia that affects 43 million people worldwide and is considered the most expensive illness in the United States. This event served as an opportunity for those living with or affected by Alzheimer’s to connect with others, learn about additional resources, and have a little bit of fun while walking to “Make Alzheimer’s a Memory”.

ALL THE WINNERS OF THE TRICYCLE RACES!

Special guest Daniel Kilgore, center for the Miami Dolphins, led the tricycle races, hiked a football with the Dobyns Bennett football team, and left his handprint in the “Alz-Star Hall of Fame”. Everyone learned more about what the Alzheimer’s disease is, and listened to testimonies from individuals whose love ones have been affected by this terrible disease. Finally everyone gathered and cut the ribbon to begin the walk around the TVA Credit Union Ballpark.

Alzheimer’s Tennessee is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting those facing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia, educating the public on brain health, and promoting research, prevention, and treatment methods. To find ways you can volunteer or give, or to learn more about Alzheimer’s Tennessee go to alztennessee.org.

KIDS TRICYCLE RACE AND WE’RE OFF! MASON AND ROXY

MICHELLE, JAN, KAYLEE, AND KATIE

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DANIEL KILGORE WITH SOME YOUNG FANS

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Johnson City

CHRISTINE AND DREW HUTCHINSON

PRAVATI ANANTHULA, DEEP REDDY, AND DEEPIKA TUMKUR

KRISTEN JOHNSON AND FRANKIE CRADIC

Old Hollywood Couples & Starlets Glamour Gala EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

It was all glitz and glam on April 6th at this year’s University School Foundation event, Old Hollywood Couples and Starlets Glamour Gala!

Everyone walked the red carpet as they arrived to the Millennium Center in Johnson City. The night featured both a silent and a live auction, dinner, and dancing along to the 80’s party band “Spank”.

Guests had the opportunity to bid on things like art pieces made by students from University School, an original painting, a guitar signed by Kenny Chesney, and even a parking spot for next school year! They could also sign up for items on wish lists made by each teacher in the school.

THE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL FOUNDATION WORKED SO HARD TO PUT ON THIS EXTRAVAGANT EVENT!

This event served as the main fundraiser for University School of Johnson City and Washington County Foundation. University School is a Laboratory School for ETSU Clemmer College of Education (CCOE). They strive to prepare all students and future educators to excel in a technologically oriented and global society. To learn more about University School or how you can help contribute, visit etsu.edu/uschool or call (423) 439-4333.

BECKY AND BRIAN DUNKELBERGER

AMANDA MILHORN, ARIANE DAY, AND HOLLEY ZIGALAR

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DONNA NOLAND HELPING WITH THE AUCTION

MELINA CHRISTIAN AND CHRISTINE HUTCHINSON

BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE PAINTING UP FOR AUCTION

Johnson City WHITNEY ALLEN CARR, ASHLEY GRINDSTAFF, ANGELA BAKER, AND SHERRI JESSEE

AUCTIONING A GUITAR SIGNED BY KENNY CHESNEY

ONE OF THE ITEMS BEING AUCTIONED OFF, A VACATION STAY AT CRANTZDORF LODGE

KEITH PILKEY AND DAN BANZANT

ASHLEY GRINDSTAFF AND JESSICA WHITE

TRIflight.com

Johnson City SOPHIA GETS HER FACE PAINTED

Once Upon a Time

RILEY BLANKENSHIP

LORINN GREY PLAYS WITH THE PARACHUTE

2 BEAUTIFUL LITTLE PRINCESSES!

Celebration EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) believes that “every child should be safe in his or her own castle.” So for Child Abuse Prevention Month the CAC of Johnson City held their “Once Upon a Time Celebration” on April 14th in the ETSU Mini Dome. The event was hosted by East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine Department of Pediatrics.

LILY AND KATE SMILE WITH HAPPY BEAR FROM THE CAC

The CAC’s Kids and parents came in their best prince and princess costumes ready to have some fun and party! The day was complete with healthy snacks, face painting, games, dancing, and a parade around the dome. Johnson City Mayor Jenny Brock was all smiles as she led the parade with the CAC staff!

Tables lined the building with educational activities and games to provide a fun way for the children learn more about healthy living. The Science Hill Marching Band also joined the fun and provided the fun background music for the event!

SADIE AND EDEN WILT FACE PAINTING

The Children’s Advocacy Center is a non-profit that provides crisis intervention programs, education and training coordination, medical examination programs, and child protective investigative teams. Their mission is to combat child abuse by providing these services in a safe and caring environment. To learn more about the CAC go to cac1st.org or call (423) 926-6528.

This event was co-sponsored by the ETSU Department of Pediatrics, Niswonger Children’s Hospital, the Children’s Advocacy Center of the 1st Judicial District, ETSU Early Childhood Programs, Live Well Washington, ETSU’s Clemmer College and Quillen ETSU medical students.

RHAYLYN, RHYLEY, AND ANGELINA

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MAYOR JENNY BROCK LEADS THE SCIENCE HILL MARCHING BAND

Johnson City JENNY GALLOWAY AND JAINA ELLIS

MICHELLE AND JEFF CHAMPLIN

RHONDA AND MIKE MCKINNON

3 Annual Run For Your Buns rd

EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

The 3rd Annual Run for Your Buns 5K took place on Friday, April 12th at Franklin Woods Community Hospital. Over 300 people showed up to walk, jog, or run to raise awareness for colon cancer and promote regular screenings

TAYLOR AND MARK MOLLISH

Each participant received a runner’s bib, a pair of boxers, and a finisher’s medal. After the race, Franklin Woods Community Hospital hosted a free health fair where local health ambassadors gave more information about the importance of early colon screening and how it can save lives.

THE CONRADS

JESSICA EDWARDS AND KATHERINE CHAMBERS CHRISTINE AND NATASHA

STEPHANIE TAYLOR AND SUSANNA BOSWELL

MARY AND MASON LIGHT

DAKOTA AND HEATH PHILLIPS

JENNIFER HOBBS AND RENEE WHITE

ADAM HUGHES AND RANDY GILMORE

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Johnson City AARO KRISTY QUILLEN, CHAUNTEE BROOKSHIRE, AND MARISSA GILBUENA N AND EMILY BUNTON

SUNNY SANDOS, JENN OWEN, AND ASHLEIGH TURNER

KRISTAN GINNINGS, JEREMY EISENZOPH, AND LEE HARDIN

United Way Washington County Stand up for Hunger Comedy Show EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Uproarious laughter was all around for those who were on hand for the comedy stylings of Lee Hardin and Shawn Reynolds during a benefit for United Way of Washington County.

Stand Up for Hunger Comedy Show was held at the Double Tree Hotel on March 23, 2019. The event was held as a fundraiser for the summer feeding program and mobile library in the community.

The show was hosted by Jeremy Eisenzoph of WJHL and featured a silent auction with several regionally significant art pieces that featured landmarks like the Elizabethton Covered Bridge and Bill Greene Stadium at ETSU.

CHRISTY AND JAY COTTRELL

DAKOTA BOOTH, JAKE WILLIAMS, AND CHASE MUSSARD

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The event also featured a dessert bar for guests, and as at every United Way Washington County event in 2019, their new mascot #Wishmore2019 was on hand to try his hand a comedy and to raise awareness of the summer feeding program.

The money for that program goes to make sure that children in the community that are food insecure are able to eat during summer break. That is the time they are most vulnerable since they do not have access to a school meals.

The summer feeding and mobile library program is a partnership between the United Way of Washington County and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee.

COTY AND ASHLEY TAYLOR

#WISHMORE2019

KEITH AND KIM WITH CINDI AND JOE NANCY CLINGENSMITH AND NANCY FAIR

may 2019

Johnson City

VALENTINA ESCOBAR-GONZALEZ WITH MAYOR JENNY BROCK

PREVIOUS RISING STAR RECIPIENT, DEBORAH SMITH OF U.S. RESPIRATORY, LLC

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER STAFF

VALENTINA ESCOBAR-GONZALEZ, OWNER OF BEYOND ENGAGEMENT IS THE RECIPIENT OF THE 2019 RISING STAR AWARD

SBDC Day: Rising Star Press Conference EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

Thanks to the positive impact Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) have had across the country, March 20th has been recognized as SBDC Day. SBDC Day is a chance to recognize the success of entrepreneurs in the small business community. This year Valentina Escobar-Gonzalez was presented with the Rising Star Award, which is given annually to the company that shows the most success while also maintaining a working relationship with the TSBDC and use of its services. Mayor Jenny Brock read the SBDC Day proclamation from Governor Bill Lee at this year’s event. Gonzalez was nominated by her Tennessee Small Business

Development Center (TSBDC) counselor Aundrea Wilcox for her incredible success with her company, Beyond Engagement- Social Media Solutions. Gonzalez offers consulting services for businesses looking to engage potential customers on social media. She also leads workshops on social-media related topics at the TSBDC. For more information about the TSBDC at ETSU, visit www.tsbdc. org/etsu or contact Mark Bays at 423-439-8505. To learn more about Rising Star Award recipient Valentina Escobar Gonzalez, visit www.beyond-engagement.com.

Paris Bradstreet, Tricia Matthews & Carrie Smith Lewis

BEGINS MAY 12 Barter Stage II

Tickets Start at $20!

BEGINS MAY 18

Gilliam Stage at Barter Theatre

bartertheatre.com | 276.628.3991

Johnson City

Covenant Presbyterian hosts Women in Politics Panel EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

The first female U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright once said women in power “can be counted on to raise issues that others overlook, to support ideas that others oppose, and to seek an end to abuses that others accept.”

With civic engagement and intellectual interest in mind, organizers from Covenant Presbyterian Church in Johnson City hosted the first event in a series of community panels on Sunday, March 31 to highlight and discuss “Women in Politics” at Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room. The panel, moderated by Lynnea Hunter Salinas, included Johnson City Mayor Jenny Brock, Washington County Commissioner Jodi Jones, and Johnson City School Board member Michelle Treece. Each answered pre-prepared and community questions.

When the 116th Congress convened in Washington earlier this year, a record 127 women took office. Despite the national surge, the three panelists still see obstacles to women and minorities in the community and hope to change the narrative through their service.

“I like to play around with words,” Treece, a retired Johnson City educator, said. “I like to look at that and...instead of saying ‘women’ for this particular question [of women in service], it would be ‘woah, men.’ I’d like to say that men have had the opportunity to run a lot of stuff, and women have been denied those opportunities or just flat out told ‘no.’”

Jones, an associate professor of psychology at East Tennessee State University, lost an election prior to winning her current seat in Washington County, which she has held for around six months.

She recalls her second bid when she took her two boys to the courthouse. She asked her sons why they thought it might be important for them to attend.

MICHELLE TREECE, JODI JONES, JENNY BROCK, AND LYNNEA HUNTER SALINAS

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“My [son] said, ‘I can think of one reason why it’s not good to be there.’ And I said, ‘What’s that?’ and he said, ‘Everyone will realize that you have kids and you probably should be taking care of us instead of spending all your time on the county commission,’” Jones said. “It was just a great teaching moment where I was like, ‘Interesting. So, if a man or dad or another guy was running, would that same thought come up for folks if they had their children along?’”

Each panelist agreed female presence in government pushes people to reevaluate traditional roles and extend their perspectives beyond their politics and views. An increasingly polarized America draws distinct lines between parties the three women hope to dissolve by bringing focus back to community interests, not individual politics, with inclusivity and authenticity in mind.

“First and foremost, we need more women in leadership for us to have a stronger, more inclusive, responsive, and transparent democracy,” Mayor Brock said. “We have a lot of skills to bring to the table...I kind of have this theory: as you begin to run for office, people are going to try to define you unless you define yourself. “ Treece voiced a need for all to be authentic to best serve the public, with Jones and Mayor Brock echoing her sentiment. By following individual values instead of party lines, these officials say more individuals, including women, can earn respect in their positions and accomplish more goals through persistence and firm belief.

“I hate politics,” Mayor Brock said. “But I love to serve...I don’t think politics are doing us a lot of good right now. It’s created so much division that it’s keeping progress from happening.”

Covenant Presbyterian plans to hold future events centered on civic and intellectual engagement. For more information, visit cpcjc.org.

Johnson City RICH HALL AND TRAVIS ESTES

DAVID LEFAMINE, MARK BISSELL, AND MELANIE BISSELL

TownView Ribbon Cutting EVENT COVERED BY KIRSTEN HALL

On Thursday, March 28, The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce hosted an official Ribbon Cutting for TownView at 114 West Fairview Avenue. TownView is a premier senior living community developed exclusively for adults 55 and over. The building is conveniently located in downtown Johnson City, and not only has beautiful mountain views but is also convenient to parks, festivals, shops, the library, the farmers market, the senior center, I-26, VA and medical services. Accommodations include studio, one or two-bedroom apartments, one-bedroom with sunroom or deluxe one-bedroom courtyard suites. Residents enjoy many amenities, some of which allow them to gather with family and friends in the beautiful dining room. A wide variety of dining choices are served every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fresh ingredients are always used! Residents also enjoy visits to the ice cream parlor, which is located inside the community.

Housekeeping and on-site laundry rooms as well as transportation to medical appointments are services that are offered as well. TownView residents are also treated to group outings, encouraged to attend wellness programs in the fitness center, and have prayer time in the historic chapel.

GARY MAYBREY, AMY FULKERSON, AND NATHANIEL YOUNG

There are many other advantages to living at TownView in Johnson City. To schedule a tour, call 423-328-9068. www.thetownview.com

THE BAKER FAMILY

RON AND PAT NOLAND

HEATHER CASH, AMY LOWE WITH DIANNA AND BOB CANTLER

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Racks by the Tracks is just under a month away and with over 15,000 people attending the festival each year, it has become one of the most popular events in the Tri-Cities as it enters its 12th year.

This year, Racks expands from a one-day event to two days: Friday May 17th and Saturday May 18th.

On Saturday May 18th Racks will have a wide range of events featuring the all-day concert lineup, 20 of the regions best BBQ vendors, SPF 10k & 5k Road Races, Beer & Wine Tasting Events, and more.

ALL DAY CONCERTS Saturday’s all-day ticketed Honda Kingsport Concert Series will feature The Breakfast Club and “The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute!”. The Breakfast Club is the longest running, most recognized ’80’s tribute band in the United States.

“The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute!” featuring Shawn Gerhard has opened for Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw and is rated the #1 Garth Brooks tribute artist and includes Garth Brook’s keyboard player. Also performing on Saturday are the popular jam band Doctor Ocular and blues & soul group Jake Quillin Band.

WINE TASTING This year’s Wine Tasting Event will see its largest expansion since its inception.

Previously, the Wine Tasting featured wines from one winery, whereas this year the tasting features 10 different wineries, which include Dark Horse, Apothic Wines, Dogliotti, Childress Vineyards, Barefoot Wine, Prophecy Wines, and more, for a total of over 20 different wines & sangrias to sample. There will be a wide range of flavors from dry to sweet, with a variety of reds, whites, and pinks.

Operating just like the beer tasting, each ticket will get attendees a commemorative wine tasting glass and access into the all-day concert. The wine tasting event is in the same area as the beer tasting event, so friends and families can spend time together while having tickets to different tastings.

CRAFT BEER TASTING As the region’s original craft beer tasting event, Racks will again bring some of the best craft beer selections to the Tri-Cities. Part of what makes the Racks beer tasting so unique and fun is that the festival draws brewery representatives on-site who have never been to East Tennessee. In addition, being one of the top craft beer tasting events in the south, breweries plan months in advance to debut new & one-time only beer recipes at Racks’ well-attended beer tasting event.

In addition, there will be a wide slate of local breweries along with beers from all over the world. In total, there will be over 80 craft beers, including gluten-free & ciders, to sample throughout the day. Plus, making their debut at any Craft Beer Tasting Festival will be the newest Tri-Cities brewery, Bays Mountain Brewing Company.

BEER, WINE & CONCERT COMBO TICKET Back by popular demand, is the all-inclusive combo ticket that gives an attendee access to both the Craft Beer Tasting Event and the Wine Tasting Event and concerts at a discount.

HOTEL PACKAGES If you’re coming from out of town or just looking for a weekend staycation Racks also offers hotel packages that include FREE transportation to and from the festival. The hotel packages are at Meadowview Marriott with the special discounted rate available only through www.RacksByTheTracks.com.

10K & 5K RACE/WALK Returning for it’s 7th year is the SPF 10K and 5K Race/Walk presented by Powell Valley National Bank. The race averages 650 runners per year. Along with the fun environment, one of the appealing draws of the SPF race is that its course is considered the fastest course in the region due to how consistently flat it is.

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2018’s course was the fastest and most popular course based on feedback from runners and that course will stay the same in 2019.

For runners seeking a challenging & unique test of stamina, they can sign-up for the Boss Hog Challenge, in which they run in both the 10K & 5K races and receive a limited-edition Boss Hog Challenger t-shirt for participating.

Awards are given for numerous age groups. Race registrants receive a commemorative t-shirt along with complimentary entrance into the all-day concerts.

Registration for all races are available at www.FastestRace.com.

FRIDAY EVENTS Friday night will feature a free concert by country star Aaron Tippin, one of the most popular country acts of the 1990s. With 10 studio albums and over 30 charted singles like “Kiss This”, “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio,” “Working Man’s Ph.D.,” and “You’ve Got to Stand for Something.”, Tippin will take the stage at 8:30pm and draw thousands of attendees from across the region for this rare opportunity to see him perform at no cost.

While the Friday night concert is free, attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item which will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. Anyone who donates a food item will be entered to win a prize pack and a meet and greet with the artist.

On Friday evening will be the Spring WING Fling, sponsored by Eastman Credit Union. This ticketed event allows attendees to sample wings from many of the Tri-Cities’ most popular restaurants.

FRIDAY & SATURDAY EVENTS On both Friday and Saturday Racks will feature over 20 barbeque vendors as well as non-bbq food vendors.

Fun for the whole family, Racks by the Tracks will feature one of the largest Kid’s Stations in the region, featuring a large permanent playground, the Downtown Kingsport Carousel will be open, face painting, and more.

AFTER PARTY On both Friday and Saturday Racks encourages everyone to head over to the Official Racks by the Tracks After Party Hosted by Kingsport Macado’s. Friday night will feature live music by Night Moves and Saturday will be karaoke all night with drink & food specials.

SCHEDULE The family-friendly festival kicks off on Friday May 17th at 5pm with the Spring Wing Fling and ends at 10pm after the Aaron Tippin concert. On Saturday Racks opens for lunch at noon and lasts until 10pm. The craft beer & wine tasting events are from 2-7pm. The 10K begins at 9am and the 5K begins at 10:30am.

The ticketed music concert is from noon to 10pm.

TICKETING All ticket types can be purchased at www.RacksByTheTracks.com or any Food City location.

In 11 years the festival has generated over $100,000 for local non-profits.

This year’s proceeds benefit several non-profit organizations including Relay for Life, Rotary Clubs of America, Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Girls Inc. and Boys and Girls Club of America, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and more.

The festival is sponsored by Food City, Honda Kingsport, Bristol Broadcasting (96.9 WXBQ), Libation Station & Plaza Package, YeeHaw Brewing, Miller Lite, Friendship Motorsports, AccuForce, Eastman Chemical Co., Sapporo Beer, Kingsport Macado’s, Visit Kingsport, Powell Valley National Bank, Ballad Health, Action Rentals, Barberitos of Kingsport, WCYB and VIPSEEN.

Jonesborough WAITING TO MEET THE EASTER BUNNY

PHOTOS WITH THE EASTER BUNNY

Easter Eggstravaganza

CARLA AND DEFELLIPO

EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Saturday, April 13th families enjoyed the Easter Eggstravaganza in Historic Downtown Jonesborough. It was a beautiful afternoon for families to come out and enjoy all the free Easter activities that were offered. Throughout downtown, kids could get their photo taken with the Easter Bunny, get a balloon animal made just for them, and enjoy the free popcorn and cotton candy. There was even more to see and do with a crafts station, a Pony Petting Zoo, and a chance to meet and take pictures with some real-life Disney Princesses. The afternoon ended with a huge Easter Egg Hunt with over 3,000 eggs hidden with toys and candy.

For more information on upcoming events in Jonesborough, visit jonesborough.com.

SAM AND ASHLEY EDWARDS GREAT DAY OF FAMILY FUN!

AMANDA AND EMMA DUNHAM

BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR AN EASTER EGG HUNT!

PHOTOS WITH THE PRINCESSES

MAKING BALLOON ANIMALS

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CRAFTS

may 2019

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VIPSEEN Special Feature

Jane Seymour An Evening with

STORY BY LINDA COFFEY | PHOTOS SUBMITTED

E

very two years, Barter Theatre plays host to an internationally known celebrity as a fundraiser to benefit their Annual Fund for Artistic Excellence. The celebrity for 2019 is Emmy and Golden Globewinning actress Jane Seymour.

VIPSEEN Magazine had an opportunity for a telephone interview with Ms. Seymour before her Barter performance. Although she has never visited this area, she is anxious for the chance to explore where her friend June Carter Cash was raised. John Stacy Keach, Jane’s son, is the godson and namesake of Johnny Cash. Like his godfather, Johnny has a future in music. The singer/songwriter lives in Nashville and will be performing during the event at Barter.

recent movie that Ms. Seymour stars in, as well as being an Executive Director. “Bereave” deals with a 40-year relationship and the complex issues faced when death is about to change everything. Malcolm McDowell came to Seymour with the script, telling her that it was a perfect opportunity to show her capabilities. Making this movie was a personal effort to all involved. They contributed to the project financially and emotionally, with the hope that it will be a gift to the world. The movie is available on DVD and also on Amazon.

The gala would be the perfect opportunity to wear “Open Hearts” jewelry. The line is a favorite in local stores, and the commercials are often played on television networks. But the story and work behind the name are inspiring.

Jane’s mother, Mieke Frankenberg was a survivor of 3-1/2 years in a Japanese internment camp. She survived because she had a mission to help others. While witnessing torture, starvation, and disease, she used her small amount of Red Cross training to provide care. Mieke taught Jane that there is always someone facing more significant issues than yourself. Once you move past your own situation with a purpose to help another, you can resolve your personal issues and move forward.

The belief that love has no boundaries and flows unconditionally led to the development of the Open Hearts Foundation, which provides expertise, resources, and tools to nonprofits to further their missions and objectives. Seymour spoke passionately about a recent event she attended in Indiana for Wheeler Mission, an organization providing services for homeless men, women, and children.

In 2011, Open Hearts presented an award to The Andréa Rizzo Foundation. The foundation was established in memory of Andréa Rizzo, a young woman who survived childhood cancer and was killed at the age of 24 by a drunk driver. Her dream of being a dance therapist is now a reality through the work of the foundation in twelve hospitals. Children facing serious illness and with special needs are benefiting from the joy of dancing.

Jane Seymour participated in “Dancing with the Stars” season 5. When told about our local event, she advised the contestants to enjoy the experience. Trained at a young age in Ballet, Seymour wishes she had discovered Ballroom earlier in life because you are not dancing on your own, you have a partner.

The idea of a couple as dancers, neither possessing the other, but being equal partners in a complex series of moves, is a sentiment expressed in her book, “Open Hearts”. This is also expressed beautifully in a

Ms. Seymour is currently participating in a BBC show, “Celebrity Painting Challenge”. Painting started as an outlet after going through terrible grief. After 10-12 years of marriage and with two small children, she went through a divorce and bankruptcy. She told her agent that she needed to work and was willing to do anything. He checked with a network, and they asked if she would consider a movie that could possibly become a series. She would need to sign a five-year contract and start the next day. The series would most likely not be a reality because the lead would be a woman, it was a period piece, a western, a medicine show and had family values. It had every count against it, but she could at least come and do the movie….that was the start of six seasons of “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman”.

Jane Seymour believes in being authentic. In her life, she has faced many heartaches but has grown in understanding that if your heart is open, it can never stay broken.

To learn more about Open Hearts Foundation, visit openheartsfoundation.org.

Barter’s Annual Fund for Artistic Excellence helps sustain everything you cherish about Barter as a hub of artistic vitality, education innovation, economic strength, and regional pride. An Evening with Jane Seymour is sponsored by The James and Laura Rogers Foundation and Eastman Credit Union. vipseenmag.com

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Physical Activity Recommendations for Kids Active kids have a better chance of a healthy adulthood. How much activity do they need?

Be Active

Kids should be active throughout the day. Replace sedentary behavior with activity whenever possible.

Go Play

Encourage preschool-age children (ages 3-5) to engage in active play as well as structured movement. A good goal is about 3 hours per day of a variety of activities (light, moderate and vigorous).

Live Healthy

Learn & Grow

Kids who are active have better bone UNA^rU kU{oVJA^ raNoo InAVa SsaJrVca attention and academic performance.

They stay at a healthier weight and have fewer symptoms of depression.

Fit in 60+

School-age kids and teens (ages 6-17) should try to get at least 60 minutes per day of moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity. It can be broken up into shorter sessions throughout the day.

Keep kids active at home and at school. Support physical education, walkable communities and safe places to play. Their future health depends on it.

Sit less and move more.

Learn more at heart.org/movemore. â ck{nVTUr `NnVJAa NAnr oocJVArVca aJ A ¨J©¨ © acr®Scn®knc r ^^ nVTUro nNoNnxNL NA^rU{ Scn ccL Vo A rnALN`An] 4aAsrUcnV~NL soN kncUVIVrNL

Limestone AMY WILLINGHAM AND DEDE

KELLI AND KARA GARRETT

RYAN EVANS AND TYLER LUCAS

Joggin’ for the Noggin’ 2019 EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

It’s racing, pancakes, and so much more at the annual Joggin’ for the Noggin’. The annual event is a primary fundraiser for The Crumley House, a facility that works with patients with brain injury. Over 400 runners gathered at the facility grounds in Limestone, Tennessee on the morning of Saturday, March 23, 2019 to lace up their running shoes for the run/walk.

The facility holds the race during brain injury awareness month, and this year one very special Crumley House ambassador, Justin Hale, had a sharp new ride to race with. Hale has been a part of Crumley House for several years and race’s with Ainsley’s Angels, a group that brings awareness of inclusion of special needs individuals in all aspects of life.

THE BENNETT FAMILY

CAROL ROBINSON, SUSAN HARMON, AND MELISSA MALENDA

After the race, participants were treated to a pancake breakfast and awards were handed out for winners. These awards have just a bit more meaning that the average racing medal. These tiles were works of art decorated by the members of Crumley House.

The Crumley House is located on 32 acres in Limestone, Tennessee. It is a unique facility that is tailored to the needs of individuals who have sustained a brain injury. They offer cognitive learning classes and integrated computer learning. The facility has residential services to allow clients to stay on the premises. They also offer a variety of events to bring information and awareness to the public about brain injuries.

LYDIA MARSHALL AND SARA JACOBSON

BRYSON LIVESAY, FIRST PLACE WINNER

For more information about the Crumley House, visit their website at crumleyhouse.com.

ETSU 2ND YEAR PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDENTS SHOWED OUT IN FORCE

MACY CARRIER WINS THE WOMEN’S AWARD

THE COW FINISHED THE RACE

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Kingsport JONATHAN WALLACE AND MIKE TANKERSLEY, EVENT COORDINATORS

SHANIA LEONARD AND KATIE DIAMOND

LISA SMITH AND WADE LARKIN

CMD Spring Fling Charity Golf Tournament EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Eastman’s Chemical Manufacturing Division hosted the Spring Fling Charity Golf Tournament on April 12. All the proceeds from the tournament went directly to Girl’s Inc. The event was a four person select shot tournament. Prizes were given to the top two teams in each flight of three. Rick Hill Imports offered a hole in one contest on number four where, with a mix of skill and luck, one could potentially win a BMW. It was a great afternoon of fun and sport to support a wonderful cause.

PAUL JOHNSON, MICHAEL BENNETT, AND JEFF WIDENER

CATTAILS TEAM

TOMMY DYKES AND MICKEY HAREN

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MIKE TANKERSLEY

ASHLEY PARKS

Kingsport TONI SWAVELY, CHARLES HONAKER, STELLA ROBINETTE, JAMES PHILLIPS, LONNIE SALYER, AND DARRELL DUNCAN

ROBINETTE AND H.O.P.E. STUDENTS POSE WITH SIGNS THEY MADE

RICHARD JACKSON

RICHARD JACKSON LEADS BOYS & GIRLS IN “THRILLER”

LONNIE SALYER

STELLA ROBINETTE AND TOBACCO PREVENTION COORDINATOR TONI SWAVELY

H.O.P.E. ‘Zombiewalk’ for ‘Kick Butts Day’ H.O.P.E. hopes to ‘kick butt’ against e-cigarette use

EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

In 2018, 3.6 million middle and high school students used electronic cigarettes. Use rose 78 percent among high school students in the last year nationwide with 11.5 percent of high schoolers in Tennessee using e-cigarettes like Juul, a small vape device resembling a computer flash drive. Around nine percent of Tennessee high schoolers smoke traditional cigarettes.

But local youth hope to “kick butts” to the curb, starting on Broad Street in Kingsport.

H.O.P.E. (Help Our Potential Evolve), a local nonprofit founded in 2008, educates young students and teens to build life skills and instill a multicultural understanding in the community. On Wednesday, March 20, the group founded by Executive Director Stella Robinette, gathered for a “Zombiewalk” outside the Mountain Music Museum to raise awareness about growing e-cigarette use and to advocate against such products as a part of the national “Kick Butts Day” established by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

“It is an epidemic,” Robinette said. “What a lot of companies are doing is giving them flavors such as cotton candy...things that kids like, and then, that gets them started because they like the taste. I see it more and more, and my kids talk about it.”

Students involved with H.O.P.E. and the Kingsport Boys & Girls Club made signs, dressed as zombies, and danced to the Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to draw attention to their campaign, disseminating a petition for passersby to sign and reminding the community “Zombies are dead, cigarettes kill.”

“I think [this effort] is outstanding because these are our future leaders,” Kingsport Police Public Information Officer Thomas Patton said. “If they’re taking on leadership roles and taking on good causes like this at an early age, it prepares them for later in life.”

A long-time educator of Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), Patton said misunderstandings about the nicotine levels in e-cigarettes proves a primary concern. Dependent on frequency of use, users may get more nicotine than they would in traditional cigarettes. Nicotine can be a gateway to more potent and dangerous substances.

Local candidates for Kingsport Board of Mayor and Aldermen including James Phillips, Darrell Duncan, and Charles Honaker came out to support Robinette and her students as they educate against e-cigarette use for a healthier community. Appalachian Cultural Music Association (ACMA) President Lonnie Salyer provided sound for the performance.

Youth education programming like H.O.P.E. gives children and teens an outlet for expression and support to avoid temptations related to tobacco, drugs, and alcohol. Dance in particular provided a way for students to communicate their message and learn about the dangers of smoking. “[We’re] making sure they feel invited and not judged, but welcome,” choreographer Richard Jackson said. “[They’re] able to express themselves creatively and artistically in a safe environment.”

Those interested in H.O.P.E. and its mission can reach organization leaders at (423)-276-6541 or visit hopetricities.com. vipseenmag.com

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Kingsport

Susan G. Komen Tri-Cities

Race for the Cure EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is the world’s largest fundraising event for breast cancer. On Saturday, April 13th, Downtown Kingsport was packed with people wearing pink as they gathered to honor those who have survived the disease and remember loved ones who have not.

There were lots of hugs, tears, and laughter as friends reunited or met with friends on the journey. Debbie Chapman was actively meeting people and posing for photos with friends. By sharing her story, she may make a difference in the lives of others. She has already made a difference in the lives of her family members.

Debbie and her sister-in-law, Susan, were each diagnosed with breast cancer one month apart from each other. One of her daughters, Amber, has had a mastectomy, chemo, and radiation during this same time. Another daughter, Ashley, decided to be tested for the BRCA genetic mutation and based on the results, will soon undergo surgery. Debbie was selected as the Honorary Survivor for the 2019 Tri-Cities Race for the Cure.

LORI BROWN AND AMY DUNAWAY

SENATOR JON LUNDBERG

Lonnie Odom had a smile on his face as he completed the walk.

He was quick to explain that he has participated for five years in memory of his daughter, Carol. It was an emotional event for him as he holds on to hope that we will continue to make progress toward reducing the risk and finding a cure for breast cancer.

The day was much more than a walk/race. There was an expo, with many vendors handing out items and/or information.

Entertainment was presented throughout the morning and a breakfast tent kept everyone’s appetite satisfied.

BALLOON RELEASE!

Prior to the start of the race, Dr. Amanda Ingram inspired the crowd with her message of hope prior. Tisha Sanders performed the Star-Spangled Banner as ROTC members from Daniel Boone High School presented the colors. As the race began, cheers went up for each and every participant.

2019 Susan G. Komen East Tennessee Race for the Cure has a goal of $100,000. Donations are still being accepted, for more information visit their website at www.KomenEastTN.org/TriRFTC. Funds raised help save lives every day in the Tri-Cities.

DR. AMANDA INGRAM

ROBERTA HYLAND

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ANGELINA BORISOV (TOP SURVIVOR RUNNER)

DANIEL BOONE HIGH SCHOOL ROTC

BRANDON WARD CROSSED THE FINISH LINE FIRST!

Kingsport LONNIE ODOM

IDELLA JOHNS (TOP FEMALE RUNNER)

ASHELY CARTER, DEBBIE CHAPMAN, AND SUSAN SKEEN

A.O. SMITH (TOP TEAM FUNDRAISING)

RUTLEDGE FAMILY

NOE AND TATE FAMILY

PRESLEY FLANARY (DESIGNED THE KIDS’ SHIRT)

MEGAN SCHMIDT, JOSH DORSEY, AND SHELLEY BROUILLETTE

PASTOR BUDDY GOSEY

TRICIA TAYLOR, SARAH HENDERSON, AND MELINDA KING

SURVIVORS

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Kingsport Ribbon “Chopping” & Grand Opening EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

New Name.

Same Excellence, Grit, Integrity, Service.

On Friday, April 19th, a new business opened its doors in Downtown Kingsport. Located at 101 Cherokee Street is King’s Sport Axe House – the only axe-throwing space in the Tri-Cities. They celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon “chopping” – ditching the traditional oversized scissors for an axe.

• SHORT TERM

Don’t worry – safety is a priority at King’s Sport Axe House. The friendly coaches will stay with you during the entire session to teach proper throwing technique and to maintain a safe environment. If you’re planning a trip, remember to wear close-toed shoes, reserve a lane ahead of time since targets on a first-come, first-serve basis (although they do take walk-ins), and arrive about 15 minutes early to check-in and sign waivers. Most importantly, don’t forget to bring along your family and friends to create a memory that you won’t soon forget!

• LONG TERM

Visit kingssportaxehouse.com or call 423-200-3313 for more information.

• TEMP-TO-HIRE • DIRECT HIRE

Making People Matter Most

luttrellstaffing.com

Marty + David Luttrell

Tennessee's FIRST and ONLY

OWNERS, AMY AND PAUL SUPINO

VANESSA AND MCKENZY BENNETT

Dr. Kathy Sanders is the state's first and only dentist to receive Fellowship Accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

And, the 81st dentist worldwide!

423.239.7899 | drkathysanders.com

NICK AND ALLIE ADAMS

ADRIEL AND VALENTINA GONZALEZ

RIBBON CHOPPING

Kingsport HALEY WHITE AND NORMA TREMBLAY

GOODWILL

EASTMAN CREDIT UNION STUDENT LENDING

Empowerment

Workshop EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

NORMA TREMBLAY AND MARTHA DIXON TALK TO STUDENTS ABOUT VOLUNTEERING

The Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency hosted the first ever Empowerment Workshop at East Tennessee State University on April 15. This event invited students to connect with local businesses and nonprofits to gain volunteer and internship opportunities. The event was also a great way for students to practice their interview skills with experienced professionals and receive valuable feedback and advice before entering the workforce. Some local participants included Cintas, Eastman Credit Union and Goodwill.

This transition into adulthood can be intimidating and overwhelming, but these organizations want to empower students by giving them some tips, tricks and confidence to succeed post-graduation.

STUDENTS SIGNING UP TO VOLUNTEER WITH HEAD START

BRITTANY SPELLAR, KELLY MARTIN, AND STEPHANIE SPARKS WITH HEAD START

To learn more about the Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency, visit UETHDA.org

Headquartered in Kingsport, the Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency has been providing the tools, education, and support for a better life for over 50 years. The agency is one of thousands of Community Action Agencies operated by the National Community Action Partnership whose mission is to end poverty in America.

Upper East serves eight counties in northeast Tennessee: Carter, Greene, Hawkins, Hancock, Johnson, Sullivan, Washington and Unicoi. The agency has a variety of programs from emergency assistance to more long terms paths for self-sufficiency, including national programs such as Head Start, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and more. UETHDA operates nine neighborhood service centers in those eight counties and offers volunteer opportunities for all ages.

The agency’s passionate staff and board of directors are dedicated to building a better community in Northeast Tennessee by giving every neighbor an opportunity to thrive.

AMBER PERRIN AND TAYLOR DOLLAR WITH CINTAS

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Kingsport

Western Derby Dinner

& Silent Auction EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

It was a perfect Spring evening in East Tennessee for the second annual Western Derby Dinner and Silent Auction. With the barn doors open, guests enjoyed petting the horses, watching them run in the fields, as the sounds of musical selections drifted through the venue. Small Miracles Therapeutic Equestrian Center was thrilled with the turnout of over 275 guests.

Denise Murray, chair of the event, was busy checking off last minute details with Mary Smith, founder of Small Miracles, and Stan Johnson, BOD Chairman. It was evident that teamwork had created an event that celebrated the miracles that have happened and encouraged future support and participation.

SMALL MIRACLES FACILITY

Stories where shared as guests mingled with staff and volunteers.

One of the Equine Interns, Libby Torok, shows her passion for the center by traveling home to Kingsport from MTSU every other weekend to work at Small Miracles. She volunteered for four years before joining the staff.

Several testimonies were given during the night. Rhonda Wilson shared how her son Riley started showing progress that he had not shown before his interactions with the horses. He has become stronger and braver. Veterans come to Small Miracles on Fridays to take care of their horses. Many expressed how this has been a great way to help with anxiety and depression. Kathy Campbell has been coming for five years to work with her horse, Buttons. Kathy stated that she learns something new every time they are together.

HANNAH LONG, HELEN LONG, AND NATALIE SWANNER

While everyone enjoyed the delicious barbeque, catered by Pratt’s and bidding on the over 160 items, and the musical entertainment, the true highlight of the event was the evidence of miracles happening through this equestrian center that has changed lives by their mission statement of “walking by faith, not by sight”.

To learn more about the programs, opportunities to volunteer, and sponsorships, visit their website at www.small-miracles.org.

DENISE MURRAY AND MARY SMITH

JOANNA TORGERSON

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LINDA AND MIKE BOGGAN

JONATHAN HAND

MAKENZIE RUSSELL

Kingsport LIBBY TORK AND LITTLE BIT

JR RUSSELL AND BART ROWLETT

RILEY AND RHONDA WILSON CHACE VINESKI AND WESLEY JONES

KATHY CAMPBELL AND BUTTONS

RYLEE PETERS

RAY AND LISA STROUD

Kingsport MILTON CARTER, WES ARGABRITE, AND TIM STORY

CATHY PETERS

BRAD AND BRADLEY HOOVER

Putting Against Polio EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Rotary Clubs have been working to eradicate polio for more than thirty years. Polio is a virus that typically spreads through contaminated water and attacks the nervous system. As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent since 1979.

JOE LEY

TRACY VENETT AND JOHN WHITE

Rotary Club of Kingsport Downtown held their second annual Putting Against Polio event on Thursday, April 11th at Golf Amplified in Kingsport.

All proceeds from the event will go to Rotary’s Polio Campaign. With “The Master’s” playing on several screens, participants were encouraged to show their skills in a six-hole putting contest or a closest to the pin competition. The event was for all ages, and some of the younger golfers were showing some great skills!

Golf Amplified was a perfect location for the afternoon of fun, fellowship, and fundraising. Prizes were awarded for contest winners – adding some competition to the fun.

To learn more about Kingsport Rotary Club Downtown, visit their Facebook page. For more information on Rotary’s End Polio Campaign, information is on their website: www.myrotary.org.

STEVE MCCLELLAN AND RICK TUNNELL

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DON CAMPBELL

CHRIS WOODS

Kingsport MAYOR IRENE WELLS (MIDDLE), WITH HUSBAND BILLY WELLS (LEFT), AND PAUL FRYE (RIGHT)

JO ZIMMERMAN AND MARK VANCE

ASSISTANT DA WILLIAM AND PENNY HARPER

Blue Ribbons & Bluegrass EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

It was a night of ribbons and blues at Model City Event Center on April 13th when the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) held “Blue Ribbons & Bluegrass”.

This fundraiser was full of food, bluegrass music, and learning about how to get involved with combating child abuse. Blue balloons covered the walls in representation of the number of those who do not report abuse. The night served as a chance to educate on child abuse prevention and advocate for victims. Assistant District Attorney William Harper received the Blue Ribbon Award for his work with the Children’s Advocacy Center.

JEFF AND KAYLEA WILLIAMS

The Children’s Advocacy Center of Sullivan County is a non-profit organization that aims to combat child sexual and physical abuse by coordinating and providing services to children and families in crisis. They provide a safe environment for interventions, education for children on what abuse is, and adult prevention training to teach adults how to protect children from sexual abuse.

For more information on the CAC, visit cacsctn.org.

MYRA CLARK AND WENDY NEHRING

APPALACHIAN TRAIL BAND PRESTON SCHICK WITH CAC DIRECTOR, GENA FRYE AMANDA WHITE, CAC STAFF MEMBER, WELCOMES EVERYONE

RICKY AND ELLEN DELATTE WITH GRANDDAUGHTER IZZY

KAPPA DELTA WAS AWARDED FOR THEIR DEDICATION TO PREVENTING CHILD ABUSE

KEVIN AND WANDA HAWKINS

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Kingsport

12th Annual Symphony Gala:

Once Upon a Time EVENT COVERED BY LINDA COFFEY

Once Upon a Time….twelve years ago, to be exact, The Symphony of the Mountains held their first gala. As the years went by, the gala evolved into the largest fundraiser for the organization.

On Saturday, April 13th, MeadowView Convention Center & Conference Resort was transformed into a storybook setting.

Many guests dressed in attire of storybook or fantasy characters.

Music Director Cornelia Laemmli Orth awed friends with her portrayal of Morticia Adams. Amidst the twinkling lights, guests gathered for the reception while perusing the many items available in a silent auction. Additional live auction opportunities included vacations, private dinners, and Symphony of the Mountains wishlist items (such as sponsorship of free music lessons for girls at the YWCA).

STEPHEN AND CORNELIA ORTH

A six-course epicurean delight, paired with wines, was served as guests were entertained with live music provided by Ashevillebased James Hammel & Friends. Several professional musicians of the Symphony of the Mountains orchestra also provided musical interludes.

Funds raised by the gala help to provide concerts and community outreach programs. The Board of Directors chair, Clark Parker, was excited about the reveal of the 2019-2020 season. With the theme of “A Magical Journey”, many exciting events are planned in the region. Make sure and check their website symphonyofthemountains.org for dates.

VALERIE KETRON AND BETSY BOYD

KAREN MUSTAIN AND GEORGE TESTERMAN

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DOUG AND CATHY SPRINGER, CYNTHIA LEWIS, WITH PAT AND HARRY TURNER

JIM BOWDEN AND DONNA SCHWIND

CHARLOTTE AND ART ELLIS

FRANK HARRINGTON AND KAYLA NEECE

CLARK AND CARI PARKER

Kingsport MARJORIE HOSFORD AND ASHLEY BLANKENBECKLER

REID AND ALEX BLACKWELDER

CORNELIA LAEMMLI ORTH AND SUZANNE KERNEY-QUILLEN

ROBERT AND MARTHA FUNKE

CHACE VINESKI AND WESLEY JONES

CARENE HUNT AND JOHN GRANADOS

ANITA DEANGELIS AND STEVE JACKSON

ANITA SLAVKOFF AND BENJAMIN WALLS

KATIE AND MK BLALOCK

STEVE AND TRIDA LAHAIR

FRIENDS ENJOYING THE GALA!

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Whitney of VIPSEEN Live! opens up about her Mom’s hearing loss and how Nu Hearing Center helped get her the help she needed.

WHITNEY CARR Host, VIPSEEN Live with Whitney & Morgan

“WHAT DID YOU SAY?” “I DIDN’T HEAR YOU, SPEAK LOUDER.” “CAN YOU REPEAT THAT?” T

hese were they typical phrases I received from my mother over and over again while trying to carry on a normal mother-daughter conversation. Just like all of our “talks” over the years she always listened to me contently, taking in every word like mothers do: always giving me the best advice. About 6 years ago, when my mother was about 75, something started to change, however, and I noticed her looking more at my lips and not in my eyes when I spoke to her. She’d smile and nod her head before I had even finished my sentence.

What was happening? Why was she doing this? Then one day we were watching my daughters play and my mom kept leaning over and asking, “what did she say”? That’s when I realized that my mother was losing her hearing. I felt like I couldn’t confront her directly, so I went to my dad first. He mentioned that he had to repeat his conversation to her quite often as well as keep the TV volume up much louder then he’d like. Her hearing loss was very gradual, so my dad had adjusted naturally over time. Since I’m not with her everyday like Dad, it was much easier for me to notice. It was time to help her but I wanted to research as much as I could first.

My fear was that my Mom would fall in to a statistic because she was missing so much through hearing conversation in daily activity such as a dog barking or something as simple as footsteps. What else was she missing? It was time to see the experts at NU Hearing Center! I have known Craig Haltom for several years. He crafted the earpieces we wore daily on our former TV show and was also a guest. What I learned from him about hearing loss and the connection of cognitive

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response really stayed in my thoughts. I made the appointment for my mother and invited her to meet me there and, only when she found out the appointment was free, did she agree to go. She was in denial, as I knew she would be, but the information we received at our first appointment helped my mother finally realize she had hearing loss.

The hearing test was simple and quick, 60% loss in 1 ear and 35% loss in the other. Wow, I knew it!

The next hurdle though, was getting my mother to wear a hearing aid or take the time to put them in every day. Once Craig explained the simplicity of use and she saw how small they were she was ready to try it! We left with new hearing aids in both ears on a 30-day no obligation free trial. We went out to eat right after and it was nice to not repeat myself in conversation. She looked around the room and noticed sounds she hadn’t heard in years, such as people moving their plates, a child singing a few tables away, and the waiter at the next table thanking their customer for coming in.

I cannot tell you how wonderful it is to have her back! She never says “Huh?” anymore and my Dad has turned down the TV volume. She looks at my eyes and I know she is listening intently once again. I am forever grateful to Craig and the wonderful staff at NU Hearing Center.

I highly encourage you to make an appointment! It’s free and you too can try out a hearing aid for 30 days for no obligation. Give your Mother the best gift for Mother’s Day, the gift of being able to hear conversation again.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OR OUR 30-DAY FREE TRIAL ON ALL HEARING AIDS. You do not pay until you are 100% satisfied with your hearing aid and our service!

KINGSPORT 1728 N. Eastman Rd.

JOHNSON CITY 308 Sunset Dr.

BRISTOL 2725 W. State St.

GREENEVILLE 906 Tusculum Blvd.

CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE HEARING EVALUATION

(423) 239-5361

Elizabethton KAREN HITCHCOCK, SARAH EGGERS, AND DEBORAH KNAPP

CARRIE AND MATTHEW MAGGARD OF THE YOGA FARM

DANA CLAYTON AND POPPY

Downtown Elizabethton

Art Walk EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

In an effort to bring more attention to the downtown Elizabethton area, local artisans and business owners have partnered to host the Downtown Elizabethton Art Walk.

The event took place on Saturday evening, March 30, 2019. Warm weather brought out a crowd to take advantage of around twenty downtown businesses being open for extended hours.

Guests could stop by Blue River Studios for a passport around the walk. Each mapped stop features one or more local artists and lots of treats. Guests could get their passport stamped at each stop and after completion can be used as entry for prize drawings.

JEAN AND ALEX LINDSAY

RUDI AND ARLENE ANGELMAKER

The children were not forgotten for this family-friendly event.

Carter County Drug Prevention sponsored a children’s area where they could use matchbox cars to make their own artwork or get their face painted by a clown.

After all the stops were visited and the passports stamped, guests could make their way to The Coffee Company. While owners Frankie and Travis Bailey weren’t serving their notorious pasta salad, they were serving up a limited menu and some great afterhours entertainment.

This is the first of many events planned throughout the year to highlight what the downtown area has to offer.

Thank you to our Art Walk sponsors: Blue River Studio, the Downtown Business Association, Elizabethton Arts & Cultural Allizance, Elizabethton Federal Savings Bank and the Northeast Community Credit Union. Look for the next Downtown Elizabethton Art Walk this fall.

MARCI, ASMARA, AND GARRETT

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MICHAEL HOWELL AND CHERI TINNEY

FRANKIE AND TRAVIS BAILEY

AUDREY LOVELANE

MARCI AND LIVIA

Abingdon

TEAR IT OPEN!

SARA DIAMOND, EMCEE

HEART DISEASE SURVIVOR, KARA CONLEY

The Fifty-Fifth Annual Queen of Hearts Gala EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

The American Heart Association held the 55th Annual Queen of Hearts Gala on Saturday, March 23, at the Southeast HirEd Center in Abingdon, Virginia. Each year eight local high school girls campaign to raise funds for the American Heart Association. Guests gathered and waited in anticipation as the candidates were recognized for their hard work and the queen was crowned. The Queen of Hearts winner is determined by the young woman who raises the most money to support the research and education to fight heart disease. Through their combined fundraising efforts these ladies were able to raise $47,148.56.

This year Alice “Alie” Ann Bassett, a junior from Tennessee High School, was crowned 2019 Queen of Hearts, raising $24,741.43. Alie chose to participate in the 2019 Queen of Hearts Campaign to support the life-saving research of which her grandfather is a recipient. First runner-up was Hailey Elizabeth Dimery, a junior from Virginia High School, who raised $3,855. In addition to the individual awards, the high school that collectively raises the most money is awarded the Crump Memorial Award, and this year it was given to Tennessee High School for raising $24,741.43.

HAILEY ELIZABETH DIMERY, GRADE 11, VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL

MACKENZIE BRITTON COFFEY, GRADE 12, SULLIVAN CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

MARY LARKIN DOUTHITT, VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL

ALICE ANNE BASSETT, GRADE 11, TENNESSEE HIGH SCHOOL

SAWYER OLIVIA STEVENS, VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL

ERINGTON KIARA COX, GRADE 11, VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL

COURTNEY MICHELLE DILLARD, GRADE 12, JOHN S. BATTLE HIGH SCHOOL

ARIEL MORGAN AGNER, GRADE 11, ABINGDON HIGH SCHOOL

SARA DIAMOND AND 2019 QUEEN OF HEARTS WINNER, ALICE ANNE BASSETT

2018 QUEEN OF HEARTS, COLLIN WHITE SPEAKS TO THE GIRLS BEFORE CROWNING

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Abingdon

Urban Pathway Kickoff EVENT COVERED BY COURTNEY CARBERRY

On Friday, April 12th Abingdon residents and politicians gathered at the Market Pavilion to celebrate the official opening of the Urban Pathway.

The Urban Pathway is a 1.625 multi-surface trail that connects the head of the Virginia Creeper Trail to the Abingdon Muster Grounds. “This path is unique because it goes from one end of town to the other without crossing a major thoroughfare,” shared Abingdon Mayor Wayne Craig.

After 7 years and funding from the Virginia Department of Transportation and the city of Abingdon, as well as contributions from Ballad Health and Food City, the walkway is finally complete and ready for use!

The Urban Pathway Kickoff also served as the start of the “Corporate Challenge”, an initiative meant to encourage a healthier lifestyle and a little competition between local businesses. This challenge urges those from local businesses to rack up miles on the new pathway, the Virginia Creeper Trail, or on the treadmill!

MAYOR WAYNE CRAIG

JOSH TIGNOR AND JACK WYCOFF, FOOD CITY

FOOD CITY PRESIDENT AND CEO, STEVE SMITH, SPEAKS ON COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

This pathway will allow for pedestrians and bicyclists to travel safely from neighborhoods to downtown eateries and shops, and will eventually be extended from Park Street to Tanner Street.

Abingdon Corporate Challenge Sponsors: Ballad Health; Food City; Powell Valley National Bank; Abingdon, Virginia; Abingdon Main Street and Washington County Chamber of Commerce.

The sale of the t-shirts are a fundraiser for the Washington County VA Chamber of Commerce. The winner of the challenge will be announced on July 15th at the Chamber breakfast held at SWVHEC. The winning company will be presented with the Corporate Challenge Trophy.

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JAYNE DEUHRING, DIRECTOR OF TOURS ABINGDON, AND TONYA TRIPLETT, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

4/24/19 10:13 AM

Bristol MISS VIRGINIA USA COURTNEY SMITS AND MISS VIRGINIA TEEN USA MORGAN DUTY

MIREILLE AND KIM BLOCK

MORGAN DUTY, KIM NICEWONDER (DIRECTOR, MISS VIRGINIA USA PAGEANT SYSTEM), AND COURTNEY SMITS

Miss Virginia Sendoff EVENT COVERED BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER

Their coaches and sponsors describe them as closer than sisters. Two young women on an amazing journey through one of the most prestigious pageant systems in the nation.

Courtney Smits and Morgan Duty have worked hard to capture the titles of Miss Virginia USA and Miss Teen Virginia USA, respectively. The two were crowned as in December and will now represent the state in the national pageants held in May. Both ladies have been working with PR Pageant Coaches and stylist Sherri Jessee along with Director of Miss Virginia USA, Kim Nicewonder, a former title holder herself.

TIFFANY, LACI, AND SCARLETT ARMES

MORGAN DUTY, SHERRI JESSEE, AND COURTNEY SMITS

The pair was welcomed at The Virginian Golf Club for a send-off party that let the community meet the duo and show their support for them. A lovely Sunday afternoon almost put a spotlight on the tiered cakes in the form of cascading sashes with their titles. The girls were flanked with their publicity photos, expertly taken, and the girls were both gracious and ready to bring the crown to Virginia.

MEGAN BROWN, JUSTIN GOBEL, AND SANTANA CADD

MOLLY AND COURTNEY SMITS WITH KIM AND ETTA NICEWONDER

Don’t let all the glitz and glam fool you, Courtney Smits has already been representing the USA in her own way, as part of the Army Reserves. She is a Psychological Operations Specialist. She uses her platform as Miss Virginia USA to bring attention to the Wounded Warriors Foundation and to bring awareness to PTSD in soldiers.

Guests there were able to leave uplifting and encouraging messages in a book that Courtney and Morgan can take with them, as well as a place to donate to Courtney’s favorite charity, Wounded Warriors.

Courtney is from Woodbridge, Virginia and Morgan Duty, a local girl from Lebanon, Virginia.

KIANA ROMAN, KYLA BOYD, AND JAIDEN ELKINS

MISS VIRGINIA USA PAGEANT FAMILIES

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Bristol JUDI RUTHERFORD, ANNE MULLANE, AND MICHELLE ARNOLD

RAYMOND AND RHONDA CLARK

KYLE PENNINGTON AND ROBBIE BAINES

Bowling for Kids’ Sake EVENT COVERED BY HALEY WHITE

Bowl for Kids’ Sake was a two day fundraiser where all proceeds went to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Tri-Cities. The event took place April 12 at Bass Pro Bowling Alley and April 13 at Warpath Lanes. This is the organization’s greatest and longest running fundraiser.

The event brings together more than 1,000 supporters throughout East Tennessee for celebratory, one-hour bowling parties. Donations made to Bowl For Kids’ Sake defend the potential of hundreds of youth — last year, BBBS-ETN made 140 matches through Bowl for Kids’ Sake.

“The fundraiser allows us to make more matches right here in the Tri-Cities,” says Regional Director Kathy Lowdermilk.

“We have nearly 70 great kids on our waiting list that deserves a Big Brother/Sister, and money raised during Bowl for Kids’ Sake helps us make matches.”

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE GREATER TRI-CITIES Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities has been transforming the lives of children in the Tri-Cities area since 1985. We are a member agency of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States, consisting of more than 350 agencies nationwide. Our agency currently serves the following counties: Sullivan, Carter, Hawkins, Washington, Kingsport, Johnson City and Washington, VA. Our vision is that all children achieve success in life.

Our mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.

To learn more visit tennesseebig.org/tri-cities.

BRITTANY WICK AND MELISSA DIXON

SHANNON BURNET AND DOUG EDWARDS

BRISTOL METALS

LYDIA, MONTANA, AND KATHY LOWDERMILK (DIRECTOR)

DERRICK REASOR AND KYLE PENNINGTON COUNCIL MEMBERS

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Bristol

ANDY DIETRICH AND JERRY CALDWELL WITH JENNY AND BOB FEATHERS

HAYLEY DIETRICH, CHIPPER HARVEY, AND TOM TAYLOR

Speedway Children’s Charities Partner in Change Luncheon Speedway Children’s Charities thanks local donors, seeks continued help EVENT COVERED BY LEXIE LITTLE

While drivers prepared to rev their engines for the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 7, Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC) geared up for another year of giving to more than 90 regional organizations helping kids in need.

With around $800,000 dollars raised for 93 organizations last year, SCC took time to recognize donors at a luncheon catered by Texas Roadhouse and Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop on Thursday, March 28 at the O. Bruton Smith Building next to the “Last Great Colosseum.”

“Our mission is to make lives better for the children in the areas surrounding Bristol Motor Speedway,” Executive Director Claudia Byrd said. “We serve 18 counties in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia...we have provided food, books, quality childcare, summer programs for special needs and at-risk youth, and services for child abuse victims.”

SCC invited three organization representatives to share their successes achieved through fundraising, allowing benefactors to see the impacts they make in the community. WCYB’s Rebecca Pepin moderated the panel representing Boys & Girls Club of Central Appalachia; Children Exceeding Expectations, a school for children with cancer and immune deficiency disorders; and Waiting to Hear, a program assisting hearing impaired and deaf children to receive cochlear implants and devices not covered by insurance.

“None of us could exist in the capacity that we do without Speedway,” Waiting to Hear co-founder Shannon Ball said. “We started five years ago on a $50 donation and a lot of prayers, and thanks to [SCC], we’ve been able to start different programs...the hearing aid program that we have [and] a mobile clinic...That clinic goes out to different schools and festivals in the area, and we’re actively identifying kids with hearing loss.”

Speedway Children’s Charities keeps special ties to the Children Exceeding Expectations school entirely operated by volunteers

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at the speedway. Adults with cancer often receive advice from doctors telling them to avoid young children prone to carrying bacteria. Whereas adults retain contact with their friends, children with cancer or immune diseases become isolated from their core social group.

“They wouldn’t have anybody to play with,” Co-Director Hayley Dietrich said. “By putting these kids together in a classroom where they have friends and they can go and play with kids like themselves, we put them back where they have socialization and interaction...these kids get to wake up every day knowing that they have purpose.”

Boys & Girls Club of Central Appalachia in Buchanan County, Virginia, implemented after-school programs at each elementary and middle school in its reach. Recently, the organization created sensory rooms to help children experiencing anxiety related to increasingly stimulated education environments.

“A lot of times, students will see an assignment, and they get really stressed out, and then they start to panic, and they start to just shut down emotionally” Unit Director Kayla Cantrell said.

“This is a place they can go and work out those issues and come back.”

Following the panel discussion, Senior Director of Business Development of New Events Jonathan Thomas thanked donors and encouraged continued giving to support similar programs.

Speedway Children’s Charities, founded nationwide in 1982, maintains a mission of “helping those who cannot help themselves,” raising nearly $14 million since inception. For more information, visit speedwaycharities.org or call the Bristol chapter at 423-989-6975.

Bristol O. BRUTON SMITH BUILDING AT BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY

BRAD BARNETT, JENNIFER SNEAD, AND AUTUMN VENABLE

MICHAEL FORMONT, MARLENA GRINDSTAFF, AND AARON EDWARDS

KATHLEEN PETRETTA AND MAGGIE HUBBARD

SHANNON AND SHERRY BALL

THE WIT BIT

Beth is a wife to Stephen, mother of 2 boys, and business owner who is passionate about Jesus. She likes the color orange, good grammar, and junk food; she detests misspelled words, laziness, and mouth noises of all kinds. She is also passionate about helping people create residual income by working part time from home. www.bethstreet.myrandf.com

I’m the Clear and Obvious Choice in 2020…

The next presidential election doesn’t happen for another year and a half, but we’re already being inundated with non-stop 2020 election talk. I’m sick of hearing about it, and I’m sure many of you are as well. So, I’ve decided to ‘take one for the team’ and become your obvious choice for President in 2020. As a service to VIPSEEN readers, over the next 18 months, I will occasionally be sharing my campaign promises, so you can turn off Fox News and CNN and just check in here to read what I will do when you elect me the next President of the United States of America. Here is a list of the things I will do on my very first day in office: My first order of business will be to enlist a scientist to create vaccinations against both stupidity and constant offendedness. These vaccines, once created and perfected, will be mandatory for every person living within our borders and in all territories controlled by the United States. The end goal is to eradicate stupidity once and for all while eliminating the disease of being constantly offended by everything.

Next, I will propose the “President Street Campaign Reform Act”. This act will limit campaign spending to $100 per candidate with no donations accepted from outside sources. Every person who wants to run for office must first pass a test to prove that they possess true common sense. Those who cannot pass the common sense test cannot run for office. Those who pass must raise money for worthwhile charities rather than for their personal campaign and only when $1 million is raised for charity, will that person be allowed to enter a political race. After the candidate has raised the required amount for charity, they may proceed with a threeweek campaign period. No candidate shall be allowed to campaign for more than three weeks.

Then, I will do away with all political parties. No more Democrats. No more Republicans. America will be a one party system. It will be known as the “Common Sense Party”. All decisions will be made and all laws passed will be based on common sense. Common sense matters that cannot be agreed upon will be settled by either a pistol or sword duel, because if you’re not willing to die for a cause, is it really that important anyway? So, the person who dies in the duel will win the argument, his/ her proposal will be passed, and that particular legislation will be named after the deceased.

The whole country will switch to four-day workweeks with three-day weekends. Every person will take a mandatory nap from 1 pm – 2 pm daily. These naps will be called “Daily Meetings”, so that people in other countries won’t think we’re lazy.

There will be free Internet everywhere – even in the remotest of areas. No passwords. No “looking for networks”. No dead areas. We will have a REAL worldwide web, not the fake worldwide web, as we now know it.

There you have it, folks – my first day agenda. Just wait until you hear what I’m going to do on Day Two!!

Together, we can Make America Even Greater!!!

I’m Beth Street and I approve this message.

Beth xoxoxo

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Beth Street, President (aka: my parents)

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Bristol BARBARA STREET, EMILY O’QUINN, AND AMANDA PILLION

JANETTE AND BRYAN ENRIQUEZ

LINDSEY AND JASON REMY

Great Gatsby Gala EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

On Saturday, March 30th, the party of the century took place at The Bristol Hotel. The Crisis Center, Inc. celebrated their 45th anniversary with the Great Gatsby Gala.

Attendees were transferred back to the Roaring ‘20s for the evening as soon as they walked through the doors.

There was also a Gatsby-inspired dinner menu, a silent auction, and a live band that played swing music for guests do the Charleston. Guests were all dolled up as they donned their best pinstripes, suspenders, pearls, gloves, and flapper dresses.

All proceeds benefitted the Bristol Crisis Center.

REX MONTGOMERY AND SHARI BROWN

EMILY ANNE THOMPSON, CARY COOPER, AND KATHERINE CAMPBELL

SARAH AND DAVID MCKINNEY

CHARLOTTE HOOVER AND LADONNA STREET

SHANA AND MARCUS WILCOX

The mission of the Crisis Center is to offer the communities they serve education, advocacy, and intervention allowing individuals to find positive solutions for personal crises. Through support, hope, and education, they strive to restore emotional balance to both individuals and the communities in which they live.

For more information, visit crisiscenterinc.org or call (276) 466-2218 (for non-emergencies).

KELLY DUFFY WITH CRYSTAL AND PAUL DAVIDSON

vipseenmag.com

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Bristol SUZETTE AND ROD ORR

PETS WELCOME!

MARK AND GEORGENE MALLOY

Food City Family Race Night EVENT COVERED BY ALLISON GALLOWAY

For over 30 years, Food City Family Race Night has been a beloved pre-race event. NASCAR fans flock to Bristol Motor Speedway for a chance to meet their favorite drivers, listen to live music, and enjoy free food samples. This year’s event took place on Friday, April 5th, which was also Busch’s Beans Pole Day. Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Drivers Kyle Busch, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Aric Almirola, Corey LaJoie, Ryan Newman, and more were onsite to meet, take photos, and sign autographs for fans. Additionally, there was an impressive lineup of NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour drivers, and others that were present throughout the day. Throughout the day, Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Drivers Bubba Wallace, Joey Logano, and Corey LaJoie participated in question and answer segments on the main stage.

During the welcoming ceremonies, Food City presented a check to NASCAR legend Richard Petty for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. Then, they honored NASCAR veteran Ryan Newman for his long career in motorsports. NASCAR legendary driver and announcer, Darrell Waltrip held a special story-time event on stage, telling tales from his long career in racing. This was particularly special as Waltrip announced his retirement this past week with an official press conference at Bristol Motor Speedway.

The night concluded with a spectacular fireworks shows, kicking off the weekend of racing.

For more information on upcoming events, visit foodcity.com.

BARB BECKER AND DIANE BUTLER

LELAND AND JACOB HENRY

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may 2019

THE MOONSHINERS SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS!

MEETING AND GREETING THE MOONSHINERS!

FOOD CITY 500 WINNER KYLE BUSCH