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June Contents EVENTS
84
FEATURES
22
22 MEN OF MEASURE 23 COVER STORY
RICHARD ROSE: NEVER STOP LEARNING!
87 COMMUNITY PROFILE
D-B SINGS AT CARNEGIE HALL
DEPARTMENTS 6
SHE SAYS...
7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
62 VIP BEAUTY MAN’S CLIPPER CUT 66 SERVE IT UP SASSY KNOCK IT OUT OF THE PARK FOR DAD! 82 WIT BIT SOUND ADVICE FOR THE TEENAGERS OF TODAY 4
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8 9 10 11 12 13 13 14 14 16 16 17 18 19 19 20 21 70 72 73 74 74 75 75 76 78 78 79 80 80 83 84 86 86 87 88 89 89 90 90 91 91 92 93 94 94
BUDS Prom Rolling for Readers BUNCO Party Joggin’ for the Noggin’ Boys & Girls Club Citizenship in Community Banquet FRIENDS Buddy Run 5k Community Volunteer Fair Virginia Creeper Trail Fest Girls Inc. of Kingsport 21st Annual SpringFUNdraiser Red Kettle Run for a Reason Overlook at Indian Trail – Ribbon Cutting & After Hours Keep Kingsport Beautiful Tree Fund Spring Ceremony Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza Symphony of the Mountains Gala Business After Hours and Custard Social First Friday Chamber Business Update 2nd Annual Cocktails: A Red Carpet Affair Bow Tie Classic Benefit Spring Fever MAKER Round-up Sullins Academy 50th Anniversary Celebration Lakeview Marina Season Opening Tuesday’s Together Tri-Cities Tennessee at Sync Space Woman of Worth (WOW) Wednesday Annual Autism Educational Conference YWCA Easter Eggstravaganza JDRF Cinco de Mayo Johnson City Chamber of Commerce After Hours at Dawn of Hope The Power of Health EXPO & Power of Play 5k Bristol Half & Half Marathon Relay for Life Committee Meeting Kingsport Chamber Centennial Gift to the Community Corazon Latino Festival – 8th Annual Wine, Women, & Shoes - benefiting Wellmont Foundation An afternoon with HK Derryberry & Jim Bradford Performance Medicine – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 2017 YWCA Tribute to Women TN/VA Scholars Picnic Day of Service DigiGirlz Day Honor Flight of Northeast Tennessee Reception Bristol Chamber of Commerce Legislative Lunch House Dressing Grand Opening Tail Water Roundup State of the City-County-Town Luncheon Drive! 2017 Summit for Driven Women in Business Second Harvest Food Bank 24th Annual Golf Classic Salon Bella Dona – Ribbon Cutting & After Hours
FLY TRI
to
St. Pete, Fllida
FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker angela@vipseenmag.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares angelica_a@vipseenmag.com EVENTS COORDINATOR Jurnee Carr jurnee@vipseenmag.com
Letter from the Publisher
She Says ... T
VIPSEEN LIVE! Whitney Carr whitney@vipseenmag.com Morgan King morgan@vipseenmag.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams 423.612.3583 lark@vipseenmag.com April Barnes 423.646.4626 april@vipseenmag.com Jacqueline Joseph 423.367.6785 jacqueline@vipseenmag.com COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lark Adams Jennifer Ares Liz Bushong Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Eric Donahue George Emerson Allison Galloway Penny Goodwhistle Lucy Honeychurch Sherri Jessee Beth Street PHOTOGRAPHY Lark Adams Liz Bushong Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Eric Donahue Allison Galloway Nathan Mays
here is a lot of attention given today to us women who are leading in spectacular ways. Ways that weren’t even possible 100 years ago. And while women should be applauded and celebrated for all that we are achieving, we simply can’t forget about the gentlemen, who surround us on a daily basis, for paving the way and even being some our biggest inspiration. This is our second year to publish the Men of Measure issue. Just like our Power Women issue, there are men in our community who have dedicated their life to a career or cause that they are passionate about with the hope of making a difference. It is this kind of servant leadership that makes our region strong and our future full of promise. My biggest inspiration in life is definitely a male… my father. I was unable to fully understand and process how amazing his story was until I was well into my adult years. One of the most valuable lessons I learned from my dad is that this life is what you make it. You can be anything and you can have anything you want as long as you are willing to work for it. One day, in a future issue, I hope to share his story with you. However, I can share this with you now…I am very proud to be his daughter. I am also inspired by my husband, Mickey, who handles so much and takes care of so many on a daily basis. I sincerely have no clue how he accomplishes all that he does. This is a very special June for our family because we are celebrating Mickey’s very first Father’s Day with Jackson James and although he has been an amazing step-father, uncle and doggie daddy in the years prior, having his own son to celebrate this Fathers Day with makes 2017 extra special! I am looking forward to raising Jackson James to be a ‘man of measure’ just like his daddy. As always, I hope that you enjoy this month’s issue! Please be sure to support our advertisers and let them know that you saw their ad. Without their support, VIPSEEN would not exist! Happy Father’s Day!
Angela Baker, angela@vipseenmag.com
DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION Barbara Werner DISTRIBUTION Travis Bondurant Eric Donahue Bobby Flowers Martin Kilgore Mark Kilgore Leslie Morgan WEBMASTER High Road Digital VIPSEEN, Inc., Tri-Cities 151 E. Main Street, Suite 5 Kingsport, TN 37660 423.398.5321 info@vipseenmag.com WWW.VIPSEENMAG.COM
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ON THE COVER
Richard Rose, Producing Artistic Director of Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia
PHOTO BY
Nathan Mays Photography
Calendar of Events / JUNE 2017 JUNE 1 Bristol’s Biggest Block Party 5pm – 9:00pm Downtown Center 801 Anderson St. Bristol, TN 37620 VIP Wonder Woman Movie Premiere 6pm – 10:00pm Pinnacle Theater 680 Pinnacle Parkway Bristol, TN 37620 whitney@vipseenmag.com Leadership Kingsport Alumni Luncheon 12-1pm The Press Room at Food City Kingsport, TN mgilliam@kingsportchamber.org JUNE 2 First Friday Business Briefing sponsored by Bristol Tennessee Essential Services 7:30am King University – Maclellan Dining Hall lworley@bristolchamber.org
Jonesborough’s 21st Annual Garden Gala 10am – 12 tour 12 - 2:30pm tea and harpist International Storytelling Center 117 Boone St. Jonesborough, TN 37659 Cameo Waters 423-753-1013 cameow@jonesboroughtn.org JUNE 4 June PEAK Around Town 2-4pm Gypsy Circus and Food Truck Gypsy Circus Cider Company 2645 Fort Henry Dr. Kingsport, TN 37664 PEAK-Kingsport Young Professionals JUNE 5 Friends of the NRA Charity Shoot 6pm Shooters Edge 413 Century Court Piney Flats, TN 37686 Barbaradiers47@gmail.com
JUNE 2 & 3 18th Annual Blue Plum Festival all day Founder’s Park 225 S. Commerce St. Johnson City, TN
JUNE 9 Walk and Roll – Featuring Mayor Clark 5:30-7pm Citizens Bank parking lot 101 E. Main Street Kingsport, TN Healthy Kingsport 423-392-8837
JUNE 3 Putt Putt Golf Fundraiser for Bridge Home No-Kill Animal Shelter 12-2pm PUTT-PUTT FUN CENTER 346 W. Stone Drive Kingsport, TN
Holler at the Moon - PEAK Downtown Concert Series After Party 9pm - 12am 316 Broad St. #106 Kingsport, TN PEAK Kingsport Young Professionals
Rotary Club of Johnson City Centennial Gala 5:30-10pm Johnson City Country Club 1901 East Unaka Avenue Johnson City, TN 37601
H.O.P.E. Spaghetti Lunch 11am - 2pm 309 Carver Street Kingsport, TN Fundraiser for Youth Educational/Mission Trip
Woofstock Race & Festival 9am – 2pm Sugar Hollow Park 3600 Lee Hwy Bristol, VA 24202 Susan Taylor 276-591-5790 taylor@mbmspayneuterclinic.org
JUNE 10 9th Annual Tri-Cities Dancing with the Stars 5-11pm Meadowview Convention Center 1901 Meadowview Parkway Kingsport, TN 423-292-2919 dessifoster@candcservices.org
JUNE 12 Chamber Golf Tournament 11:45am – 12:45pm Lunch 1:00 pm Shotgun Start Blackthorn Club 1501 Ridges Club Dr. Jonesborough, TN 37659 hill@johnsoncitytnchamber.com JUNE 15 Ribbon Cutting at One South Financial Group 4pm 247 Broad St. Suite 200 Progress Building Kingsport, TN 423-782-8186 After Hours at Agero 5:30-7pm 115 Sprint Dr. Blountville, TN lworley@bristolchamber.org JUNE 16 Ribbon Cutting at Dominion Senior Living 10am -12pm 425 Shelby Lane Bristol, TN 37620 (423) 797-8080 info@dominionbristol.com JUNE 17 The Pink Firefly Market 10 am – 2 pm Rose Hill Ballroom 227 East Market St. Johnson City, TN Katy Keen @ 276-479-2714 5th Annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life Car Show 9 am – 2 pm Holston Defense Army Ammunition Plant 4509 W Stone Dr. Kingsport, TN
5K Race/Walk for a Drug Free Bristol 9am registration, 10am 5k, 10:15am 1 mile run/walk Sugar Hollow Park 3600 Lee Hwy Bristol, VA (276) 591-7758
Ride for Freedom 12pm ride leaves Wal-Mart parking lot 3200 Fort Henry Dr. Kingsport, TN 37664 423-366-4891 samj48@embarqmail.com LOUD Shirt Gala & Silent Auction 7-10pm Holiday Inn Bristol 3005 Linden Dri. Bristol, VA 24202
Rhythm and Rides Festival 10 am – 8pm Downtown Kingsport, TN Holston Home for Children
A Midsummer Dream: Fundraiser 6 – 9pm McKinney Center 103 Franklin Ave. Jonesborough, TN 37659 Mary B. Martin Program JUNE 22 2nd Annual Paint the Town Purple Gala 7-11pm The Martha Washington Hotel & Spa 150 W Main St. Abington, Va Alzheimer’s Association of Northeast TN JUNE 24 Run the Tweetsie Half Marathon and 10k 6:30 am Tweetsie Trail Intersection of Legion St. and W State of Franklin Johnson City, TN Margie L. Collins drug.court@bristolva.org (276) 591-7758
Kari’s Heart Foundation Charity Ride 9am, ride at 10am for 3.5 hours Smith Brother’s Harley Davidson 3518 Bristol Highway Johnson City, TN hoover@chartertn.net JUNE 27 TN Achieves Promise Tour 9am Kingsport Center for Higher Education Kingsport, TN 37660 kchamber@kingsportchamber. org JUNE 29 Monroe at the Mansion 11:30am Allandale Picnic Pavilion 4444 West Stone Dr. Kingsport, TN 37660 hoover@chartertn.net After Hours at SpeedPro Imaging 5:30-7pm 100 Deck Lane Blountville, TN lworley@bristolchamber.org
FOOTLOOSE
One of the most explosive movie musicals to burst onto the stage in recent memory! The soundtrack reached #1 on the Billboard charts with top 40 rock score, it is a story of rebellious teens and the families who learn to listen to and guide them with warm and loving hearts. Based on a true story; features the hit songs: “Footloose,” “Somebody’s Eyes,” “Holding Out for a Hero,” “Let’s Hear it for the Boy,” and “Almost Paradise.”
Other showings in May… Cinderella The Cottage Leaving Iowa The Savannah Sipping Society Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Visit www.BarterTheatre.com or call 276-628-3991 for show times and to purchase tickets. www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT ALLANDALE PAVILION
BUDS Prom
S.H.O.U.T YOUTH LEADERSHIP ALUMNI THAT ARE ALSO BUDS
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Some senior students of Dobyns-Bennett High School spend an hour of each school day being BUDS to students in the Life Skills program. Buddies Understanding Different Students (BUDS) was started in 2007 to allow Life Skills students interaction with fellow high school students, and selected seniors serve as peer tutors. At the end of the year, the Life Skills class and their BUDS get together for their own special prom. Each year since 2010, during the month of May, the Rotary Club of Kingsport Downtown hosts the prom to give the students some fun time together. Rotary Club members volunteer their time to come and help the special needs students and their BUDS enjoy having a last blast before the seniors graduate. This year marked the eighth event and was held April 27, 2017, at the Allendale Picnic Pavilion.
AARON HISCUTT AND JESSICA CRAWFORD
KATELYN WINEGAR AND CAROLINE MASON
F&L Limo service picked up the Life Skills class at DobynsBennett and brought them to the prom, where the BUDS made a human arch to welcome them to prom. Night Moves Mobile DJ’s provided music, and after the students had danced up an appetite, Food City was there with hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the fixings for the guests. Students also took individual prom photos with their BUDS to end the day. “Our Rotary Club is privileged to see the joy in the faces of these students,” said Rotarian Dr. Joe Ley. “As an organization that promotes ‘service above self ’, we are honored to provide and support the care of young people.”
CODI WITH HIS “BEST” BUDS
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LILLY LAGUNAS AND AARON HISCUTT
ROTARIANS HOST THE ANNUAL BUDS PROM
CALLIE MAGGARD, JAKE GARNER, AND LAUREL RUSSELL
Life is
Better
Outside making you happy
BRISTOL 3325 Lee Highway making you happy
KINGSPORT 1535 East Stone Dr.
JOHNSON CITY 3026 E. Oakland Ave
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Rolling for Readers BRENDA MORIARTY, SCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER AND ERIKA BRAMMER, EVENT CHAIR
DELENE WHETSE AND MISTY RITCHIE
Bunco Party PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The Rolling for Readers Bunco Party, sponsored by The Regional Eye Center, was held on Tuesday, April 25th to benefit the Sullivan County Imagination Library (SCIL). Guests were served dinner and got to play Bunco, a unique game played with dice.
CAROLE PRICE, FRANKIE YORK, AND KATHIE GRIFFITH
JANE LUETHKE, CHARLENE HARRIS, AND PARRIS BEMBEN
Olive Garden of Bristol donated salad and breadsticks, while The SCIL Board Members made soup and desserts. Volunteers from Delta Pi Chapter, ESA International, IOTA Chapter, and Delta Kappa Gamma also provided homemade desserts, snacks, and drinks. Prizes were also donated for Bunco winners. Over 70 people showed up to support the SCIL in its goal to promote the love of books and reading by mailing free age-appropriate books monthly to local children from birth to age 5 in Sullivan County.
KERI-LYNN PAULSON, SANDRA LITTLE, ERIKA BRAMMER, SHARON BROWN, AND JEANNE PEAL
GAIL CAMPBELL AND FRANCES COTTRELL
www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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SEEN IN
LIMESTONE CRUMLEY HOUSE
Joggin’ for the Noggin’ PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Crumley House is a rehabilitation center that has both residential and outpatient programs for adults and children that are suffering from traumatic brain injury. The facility offers a variety of programs and service options.
CAROL KELLEY, BARBARA TUCKER-HENSLEY, JORDAN REED, AND MARY FRANCES REAMS
ALLISON TRIVETTE WITH NORA AND RYAN TOUATI
On March 25, 2017 Crumley house held one of their largest fundraisers of the year, the annual Joggin’ for the Noggin’ 5k run/ walk. The event was held on the 32 acres of Crumley House in Limestone, Tennessee, and emceed by VIPSEEN Live! hosts Whitney and Morgan. Supporters like Carol Kelley came from Cosby, Tennessee to support Crumley House. Kelley received a traumatic brain injury after the horse she was riding suffered a seizure and threw her onto the ground. The accident happened six months ago, but Kelley says she is recovering nicely and has recently returned to work.
GUYNN EDWARDS (CRUMLEY HOUSE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR) AND WAYNE HUNIGAN (PROGRAM DIRECTOR FOR CRUMLEY HOUSE) JUSTIN HALE, TAYLOR MILLER (HIS RUNNER), AND ALLISON TRIVETTE
Nora Touati and Justin Hale used specialized chairs for running provided by Ainsley ’s Angels. The group provides the running chair and a companion that pushes their partner through the race. Justin Hale, who is a client of Crumley House has worked for several years as a spokesperson for the race, giving various media interviews and acting as an ambassador for the race. Winners and sponsors received a one-of-a-kind plaque that were each hand designed by a client of Crumley House. Each one is unique and has the name of the person that created it on the back.
PHIL ROBERTS AND BRINSON MILHORN FINISH THE RACE IN THE TOP SPOTS
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SEEN IN
ABINGDON SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER
MARY ANN AND DR. MOORE WITH MARY AND DAVID MATLOCK
PAULA AND RICK GAUMER
JIM AND LAURA MAXWELL
Boys & Girls Club
Citizenship in Community Banquet PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
MACK CARR AND VANESSA BRIDWELL
BEVERLY BOLING AND JIMMY MORELOCK
The Boys & Girls Club Citizenship in Community Banquet was held on Friday, March 31st at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. The program honored citizens in the community who have made a lasting impact to the children in the Boys & Girls Club of the Mountain Empire. The event was hosted by Israel O’Quinn with special remarks from Congressman Morgan Griffith. Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the First Lady of Virginia, Dorothy McAuliffe, received the Rex Gearheart Youth Hunger Award. Distinguished Citizen awards were presented to Dr. Rachel Fowlkes, Pete Lauzon, Barbara Street, and Mitch Walters for their significant contributions to the children in the community. Dick Collins, the Chief Professional Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mountain Empire, recognized the Youth of the Year to close the banquet. The mission statement for the Boys & Girls Club is “to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”
KATRINA WASHINGTON AND DICK COLLINS
SONIA AND JACK VAN HOOK
KELLY AND KATHLEEN TABOR
PATTY AND PETE LAUZON
DOROTHY MCAULIFFE, FIRST LADY OF VIRGINIA
MITCH WALTERS
www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
REIGHTLER FAMILY
KATIE AND JOHN WEBB
MECHELLE AND RACHEL BROOKS
ANGI AND ISAAC CLARK
FRIENDS Buddy Run 5K
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
FRIENDS, Friends Reaching, Inspiring & Educating Neighbors about Down Syndrome, hosted their second annual Buddy Run 5K on Saturday, April 22nd. The race included a Special Needs Dash and a Family Walk in addition the 5K that participants ran on ETSU’s campus. Over 175 people came out to participate and support the cause. There was also a bounce house and balloon animals for the children to enjoy and breakfast provided by Bojangles.
BOJANGLES CATERED BREAKFAST FOR THE EVENT
JASON HULSE, KASEY CODY, AND STACEY SHEFFEY
DAVID AND LISA CARTER
VALERIE RICHARDS AND MISTY HARVILLE
“Inclusion is very important for us. As a mother of a little girl with Down Syndrome I want everyone to know that my child can do everything that any other child can do,” says Misty Adams, FRIENDS president. All proceeds from the race went to benefit FRIENDS. On September 30th, FRIENDS will host a one mile walk to raise awareness about down syndrome.
MISTY ADAMS, PRESIDENT OF FRIENDS
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BALLOON ANIMALS WERE MADE FOR THE CHILDREN!
SEEN IN
ABINGDON THE VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL
Virginia Creeper Fest PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
SNOW CONES AND ICE CREAM
EVEN THE DOGS CAME OUT TO ENJOY THE CELEBRATION.
AMY DEEL AND SUE SMITH
MARY ANNE AND NOLAN HOLBROOK
This year marks the 30th year anniversary of the awardwinning Virginia Creeper Trail. The Creeper Trail is a 34.3 mile trail that starts in Abingdon, VA named after the steam engine that once creeped up the trail into the Iron Mountain. In 1986, the Rails-to-trails conservancy began converting the trails for hikers and bikers to enjoy for years to come. To celebrate this anniversary, the Creeper Fest was held on Saturday, April 29th In Abingdon. There were activities for kids of all ages, Yoga in the park, tree identification along the trail, bike rides, geocaching, Disc dog demonstrations, paddle board demonstrations, vendors, live music and lots of food.
KINGS CHAPEL APOSTOLIC CHURCH – BOOTH WITH “THE BEST CHILI AROUND”
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT EASTMAN EMPLOYEE CENTER LOBBY
Community Volunteer Fair PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
GIRLS INC. – JULIE WRIGHT-SHORT, PRESIDENT AND CEO – TAMMY WILMOTH, FUND DEVELOPMENT
MANDI CAMBRE – UNITED WAY OF KINGSPORT RESOURCE AND COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
DANELLE GLASSCOCK – UNITED WAY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
HOPE HAVEN MINISTRIES – JOEL TRIGG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Sponsored by the United Way of Greater Kingsport, the Community Volunteer Fair was held in the lobby of the Eastman Employee Center on April 6th. Organizations from all around the Tri-Cities met to educate the public about their needs for volunteers. If you are looking for a way to “pay it forward” perhaps consider one of these places to volunteer your time. Whatever you enjoy doing, there is a place where you are needed. From delivering meals, helping at a local shelter, assisting in equine therapy, or simply answering the phone, all of the organizations represented are well deserving of your time. For more information visit www.uwaykpt.org.
GIRL SCOUTS – HAOWEI CLAIRE TONG, NORTH AREA DIRECTOR
www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT FARMER’S MARKET
Girls Inc. of Kingsport 21st Annual
Spring FUNdraiser PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
What a fun night! This was the 21st Annual Spring Fundraiser held by Girls Incorporated of Kingsport and it was possibly the very best one yet. There was fun music, amazing Food by Bare Bones BBQ, Donations and a silent auction, an Art Display of hand made art by the Girl’s Incorporated girls themselves. People from all over came to support this worthy cause and great organization. Girls Inc. of Kingsport is an after school and summer program that inspires all girls to be strong, smart and bold. They are a United Way agency. Make plans now to attend this event next year. Bring a pair of flip flops to donate or just a happy face that is ready to have some fun and help enrich the lives of girls all over Kingsport. More info can be found and donations can be made at www.girlsincofkingsport.com.
ELAINE WASHINGTON AND TAMMYE TAYLOR
JERAMY ISBEL AND EMILY MAYS
ELAINE BOONE AND TRAMARA DARNELL
BEVERLY BOLING – HORIZON CREDIT UNION
JACK VAUGHN – BOARD MEMBER, GIRL’S INC AND SALLY PIERCY
KATE WILLETT, LAURYN SHORT, AND MAX CHESSER
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT WARRIOR’S PATH STATE PARK
Red Kettle Run for a Reason
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The first annual Red Kettle Run for a Reason was held at Warriors Path State Park on Sunday, April 9th. The weather was perfect for the 5K run/walk. Participants were encouraged to wear their best camouflage or army running attire. With over 63 participants and over 20 volunteers, it was a successful community event. All the proceeds from the event went to benefit the Salvation Army of Greater Kingsport. The Salvation Army provides many services in our community such as the Food Pantry Program, the phenomenal youth program, and much, much more. There were several awards given out for different age categories. The top 8 winners are below. OVERALL MALE – Randall Statzer OVERALL FEMALE – Erin Smith MASTER MALE – Chuck Trese MASTER FEMALE – Holly Warren GRAND MASTER MALE – Bruce Vincent GRAND MASTER FEMALE – Lori Whitmire SENIOR GRAND MASTER MALE – Charles Harmon SENIOR GRAND MASTER FEMALE – Patricia Caldwell 14
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A WINNING HUSBAND AND WIFE TEAM!
BILL ALBRIGHT WITH THE SALVATION ARMY
RANDALL STATZER, OVERALL MALE CHAMPION
ERIN SMITH, OVERALL FEMALE CHAMPION
Monroe at the Mansion Join New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe for a Literacy Luncheon as part of her book tour for Beach House for Rent, her new standalone novel and final installment from The Beach House series. Monroe, an award-winning author of nearly two dozen books, will speak, take Q&As from the audience, and following the program, she will also sign books.
Thursday, June 29, 2017 – 11:30 a.m. Allandale Mansion – Picnic Pavilion 4444 W. Stone Drive, Kingsport, TN 37660 Tickets are only $45, and that includes a copy of the new release! ($35 for lunch only) Tickets are limited, and reservations are required.
Register online at www.literacycouncilofkingsport.org For additional information, call the Literacy Council of Kingsport 423-392-4643 Benefiting both:
™
Friends of Allandale
Sponsored by: Comprehensive women’s health solutions for every season of life.
SEEN IN
SEEN IN
ROTHERWOOD BRIDGE
OVERLOOK AT INDIAN TRAIL
KINGSPORT
RHONDA SMITH, ALLISON KOTH, AND ROBIN CLEARY
KINGSPORT
KIM HACKLER, SHAN GRAGG, AND SHONE GRAGG BREAK GROUND AT THE BIG ELM TREE
Keep Kingsport Beautiful
Tree Fund Spring Ceremony PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
The Keep Kingsport Beautiful Tree Fund Spring Planting was held at the recent Greenbelt expansion located near the Netherland Inn Road bridge. The KKB Tree Fund is sponsored by Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home. KKB volunteers read aloud the names of those honored by recent donations to the tree fund. Ten Cherokee Princess Dogwoods were planted along the Greenbelt, as well as a large Frontier Elm. The elm was planted to replace the original “Big Elm” that once stood along Big Elm Road and dated back to the mid-1700’s, having been mentioned in the journal of explorer Dr. Thomas Walker in 1748. The planting of the Frontier Elm was made possible by a generous donation from Mr. Skip Norrell. The Kingsport Greenbelt is a scenic fitness trail that stretches across Kingsport. A project developed and maintained by Kingsport Parks and Recreation, this trail is over eight miles long and has access points all across the city of Kingsport. The Greenbelt is s a favorite destination for walkers, runners, and bicyclists.
JOHNNA YATES, JERRI ANN GARST, JEANNA BLAND, RITA YATES, AND JOSEPHINE BLAND
Overlook at Indian Trail Ribbon Cutting and After Hours PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
Along with the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Kingsport’s newest Apartment complex, Overlook at Indian Trail, held it’s official Ribbon cutting ceremony on March 30th. The Shuckin’ Shack of Johnson City provided some AMAZING food and drinks and Morgan King was there with VIPSEEN Live! Overlook at Indian Trail is a state of the art Apartment complex located just off of Stone Drive in Kingsport. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of our growing and energetic city while offering retreat style living. This beautiful property boasts a luxury lifestyle at affordable prices. Ammenities include a zero entry salt water, resort style pool, outdoor fireplace and entertainment area, flat screen televisions, music throughout the clubhouse and pool area, gated access to a 24 hour state of the art exercise facility, yoga, children’s play areas, car care station, and access to garage parking and storage. For more information, visit www.overlookatindiantrail.com/
Keep Kingsport Beautiful is a nationally award-winning affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Tennessee Beautiful, as well as a joint program of the Kingsport Chamber and the City of Kingsport. Keep Kingsport Beautiful’s mission is to involve the community in responsible solutions for a clean and beautiful environment.
KIM FLINT – PROPERTY MANAGER AND K.D. MOORE OWNER OF OUTLOOK AT INDIAN TRAIL
STEPHEN LAHAIR (KPT CHAMBER CHAIRMAN), LEWIS BAUSELL (LANDSCAPE ARTIST)
HAROLD CHILDRESS (OWNER, HAMLETT-DOBSON FUNERAL HOME)
A TEAM OF KINGSPORT OFFICIALS READ NAMES FROM HAMLETT-DOBSON MEMORIAL TREE FUND LIST
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BOB FEAGINS AND MILES BURDINE - KINGSPORT CHAMBER
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY FOUNDER’S PARK
ANDREW FELTY, STEPHANIE CARSON, AND ANTHONY “ACE” ACEVES
WES FLETCHER, DIANNA AND BOB CANTLER, WITH BRAD PARKER
DONNA AND TRINITY LANCASTER
Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ANGELICA ARES
DUANE AND CHRIS GARNICHAUD
ANNIE MCKINLEY, EDDIE CABBAGE, AND KIM ROESSLER
The 6th Annual Thirsty Orange Brew Extravaganza took place on April 8th, 2017 at Founder ’s Park in Johnson City, TN. The day brought abundant sunshine, festivities, friends, and brews. Some of the region’s finest craft brewers brought a variety of samples to share with the crowd. The festival also included an area for home brewers to show off their amazing brews. Guests of the festival enjoyed over 150+ uniques beers to sample. Many brewers brought beers that had never been sampled before. Along with the tastings, Thirsty Orange also welcomed DJ Allen Rockhouse to provide musical entertainment, stilt walkers, and other “side-show” entertainment. Thirsty Orange Brew-Off, Tennessee Championship of Beers, and Mobile Infusers were also part of the festivities. Thirsty Orange (along with Superfly Fabulous Events) would like to thank their many sponsors for another succesful event and look forward to next year. For more information, or to see more pictures, please visit www.thirstyorange.com.
LISA LAPELLA, MATTHEW SMITH, LAURA SWEARINGEN, RICHARD SWEARINGEN, JASE EDENS, AND MARTHA BROWN
SHIRA EVANS, MEREDITH BELL, AND SONYA GRUBB
LAUREN JOHNSON, YANCEY APPLING, AND LESLIE JOHNSON
DICK NELSON, JEREMY MADEN, CASEY WILBERT, AND TAMARA WINTERS
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
MICHAELA TAYLOR, JESSI MCREYNOLDS, AND KAYLEE STREET
JEFF QUILLEN AND SUZANNE KERNEY-QUILLEN
TIM AND SUE ATTEBERY
An Evening of Musical
& Epicurean Delights PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
What a beautiful night of music, wine, fine dining, and dancing. The night featured a six-course dinner with wines selected to highlight flavors in each course. A live auction was held to benefit the Symphony and items such as art, wine, vacation packages, hand crafted jewelry and even a private dinner at the home of the symphony ’s conductor, Cornelia Laemmli Orth. This was the 10th annual Gala held by the Symphony of the Mountains and was held at the Meadow Convention Center. Make plans now to attend the Kingsport 4th of July Fireworks celebration where the Symphony of the Mountains will be playing live along with fireworks in celebration of #kingsport100.
JULIE NOECKER AND FRANK HARRINGTON
MELISSA AND JON WOODS
ANNA SAWYER AND JAYNE GREENE
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CINDY HICKS – HARPIST
JENNY SMITH AND NEPHEW KEVIN ODOM
CORNELIA ORTH AND MELISSA ROBERTS
MAYOR JOHN CLARK WITH HIS WIFE, ETTA AND FRIENDS
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY THE VENUE
MORGAN KING AND AUDIE LACY
MR. AND MRS. SUMMERS
2nd Annual Cocktails: A Red Carpet Affair PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
Established in 1947, The Junior League of Johnson City has been a very active part of our Johnson City scene. JLJC partners with numerous community organizations each year to “do good” where it is needed most. For example, last year alone, The Junior League of Johnson City donated $20,000 to ETSU’s Prescription Drug Abuse/ Misuse working group to go towards toe creation of a database that will help find the best treatment for babies born with addiction. The JLJC also supports literacy by partnering with the Read 20 Initiative as well as the through newly-formed JLJC scholarship program. Their Mission: “The Junior League of Johnson City is a non-profit organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.” The fund raising gala and silent auction was held on April 21st.
TINA AND JOHN HOLLANDSWORTH
GINNY WRIGHT, CHELSIE DUVAY, AND WHITNEY BABEL
ADAMS BRISCOE AND CHAM JOHNSTON
WHIP CHARITY AUCTION – SHARI GAGEL
SEEN IN
ABINGDON GLENROCHIE COUNTRY CLUB
Bow Tie Classic Benefit PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The 5th annual Bow Tie Classic Weekend began with the Clay Copeland Memorial Benefit on Friday, April 28th. This was hosted by the Southwest Virginia Chapter of the Virginia Tech Alumni Association. Guests were encouraged to add a colorful, fun bowtie to their attire. The silent auction was comprised of a variety of amazing items from vacations to the special Hokie Bow Tie Quilt. All proceeds benefited the Clay Copeland Memorial Scholarship Fund for future Hokies from Southwest Virginia. To date, the scholarship has awarded 10, $1,000 scholarships ($10,000) to Virginia Tech freshmen who reside in the region served by the alumni chapter.
PETER GILLMAN AND KEN SMITH
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CARL AND KIM GREEAR
JEREMY CONTE, HEATHER GEORGIA, SUSAN COPELAND, AND KELSEY COPELAND
LESLIE CUMBOW AND MIKE SMITH
JUDY AND CARSON JACKSON
SEEN IN
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY
BRISTOL
FIRST CITIZENS BANK
KING COLLEGE
ALLISON BAYS (BARTER THEATRE), MONICA HOEL (EMORY & HENRY), AND SARAH CLEAVINGER (KING UNIVERSITY)
LARRY ENGLAND AND BRENDA WHITSON – JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ANDREW AND SHELBY HENRY
Business After Hours
and Custard Social PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
Wings and Custard! What an amazing combination and way for First Citizens Bank of Johnson City to host the monthly Johnson City Chamber of Commerce after hours. This evening was a great success as business people gathered to network and connect on a personal level. First Citizens Bank is a full-service bank with a hometown feel. As you walk in, you are greeted by the smiles of the helpful team members that make this branch a success. Have a seat at one of the private banking cubicles to do business and you realize you have found a bank that really goes the extra mile to make banking an enjoyable experience. Check them out! They are located right beside WHICH-WICH? Sandwiches right off of State of Franklin Rd. and across from Buffalo Wild Wings.
KAYLA JANEWAY, JENNA MOORE, AND JORDAN HENSLEY
FRIENDLY TEAM MEMBERS: TINA KROMOFF, BROOKE STORY, JODY HARNSBERGER, AND KRISTAN GINNINGS
J. DEAVER, FIRST CITIZENS BANK AND JOHN ROTTY, OFFICE PLANNING GROUP
SUSAN MALLICK (HOLIDAY INN) AND MATT BOLAS (BRISTOL CHAMBER CVB)
First Friday Chamber
Business Update PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
It was a fast-paced meeting for Bristol Chamber of Commerce First Friday Business Briefing on April 7, 2017. The event was held on the campus of King University, where officials were preparing to inaugurate the next President of King, Dr. Alexander Whitaker, later that afternoon.
Emory & Henry College President Jake Schrum was the guest speaker for the breakfast. Schrum announced several exciting things happening at the college and included an update on the McGlothlin Center for the Arts, the recently constructed high-tech performing arts center at the college. Bristol Motor Speedway came by to inform the chamber of some new things that have in store for race fans. They include being able to purchase child tickets with an adult purchase. They also have added a kid zone and kid friendly menu items. Local businesses were encouraged to get out the welcome mats for the throngs of people in the area during race weekend. The countdown to the race was on after taking a selfie of the filled room with the #itsbristolbaby. The chamber ended the morning with welcoming of new members, and giving away some great door prizes to the guests.
AMY SHUTTLE (BRISTOL CHAMBER), JAKE SCHRUM, PRESIDENT EMORY & HENRY COLLEGE, GARY REED (E&H BOARD OF TRUSTEES), JANICE JONES (UNITED SOUTHEAST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION)
KARA KNAPP (VIA MEDIA) AND MICHAEL WARREN (JERRY B. PETERS)
MARY BETH COLLINS AND JAMES CLARK OF NEW CHAMBER MEMBER FARRELL CALHOUN PAINT
DALE S. COOK AND ANSLEY COOK (CSE AGENCY)
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MEN MEASURE 23 COVER STORY
RICHARD ROSE BARTER THEATRE
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JAKE R. BATEMAN, D.D.S. BATEMAN DENTISTRY
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PAT BREEDING GRC CONSTRUCTION
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RUSSELL CAMPBELL CAMPBELL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
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BILL FAVORITE MARQUEE CINEMAS
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CHRIS FORD ANYTIME FITNESS KINGSPORT
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STEVE GRINDSTAFF
MORGAN KING VIPSEEN LIVE!
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STEVE LAHAIR CHEF’S PIZZERIA
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ADAM MORGAN FERGUSON ENTERPRISES, INC.
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C. DON ROYSTON BROWN EDWARDS & COMPANY, LLP
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ERNIE RUMSBY TC-MAC
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JOHN ABE TEAGUE OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN PHIL ROE, M.D.
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FRANK WALDO
GRINDSTAFF AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
TELE-OPTICS APPALACHIAN MILES FOR SMILES
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DR. FREDERICK V. GUTHRIE, JR. BOONES CREEK DENTISTRY
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DEWAYNE KIMBERLIN KIMBERLIN FARRIER SERVICES
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MITCH WALTERS FRIENDSHIP FAMILY OF DEALERSHIPS
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EDWIN WILLIAMS PERSERBID
RICHARD ROSE PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, BARTER THEATRE
NEVER STOP WRITTEN BY JENNIFER ARES PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY
LEARNING
BARTER THEATER AND THE PURSUIT OF DIALOGUE
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Festival in Milford, NH, but fate has a way of sticking her nose in my business. I got a call from an actor, who I knew from his work at a neighboring theatre in New Hampshire. He was back in the area, asked if I’d meet him for lunch so I agreed. While at lunch, he told me that Barter was looking for a new director – he had acted at Barter many times over the years - and said he thought that what I did in theatre and what Barter Theatre needed would be a good match. So I applied.” Rose didn’t imagine much would happen with his application. “Barter was really looking for either an alum of Barter or a southerner as Barter is a southern theatre.” But he was asked to interview and then he was asked to interview again and then, finally, he was offered the position. “The first time I visited Abingdon for my first interview, I called my wife, Amanda, and told her that she would love Abingdon and would never want to leave. I was right.” Rick became Barter’s Producing Artistic Director in 1992, at a time when Abingdon had just a handful of shops downtown, and when Barter had just about 47,000 annual visitors. Producing artistic director is a mouthful to say, but it is a job that entails Rose having to wear more than one hat and being responsible for both the financial and artistic aspects of the theater.
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aying that Richard Rose thinks theater is important is like saying the Pope is Catholic or the sky is blue. Growing up in rural Lena, Wisconsin meant Rose was surrounded by plenty of farmland, but he was never without theater. “My parents made sure we got to experience the arts, and for that, I am forever grateful. They took us to Chicago, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis in order to go to the theater. They always made sure that we got to experience theater.” Rose loved the theater, but he never imagined that it would end up being his life’s calling. He went to the seminary in high school and college: an entirely different calling to be sure. “I was fine in seminary. I was learning a lot and each class was taught from different perspectives. We would take a class focused on the history, religion, humanities, literature, and philosophical views. The priests made sure we looked at any subject matter from more than one point of view.” Immersed in his learning, and happy to be doing so, Rose never thought he would be called into the theater but, like much of life, fate intervened to change things. “In my first month in college, I got a call from my high school art teacher asking me to come and direct a play. I scoffed at the idea at first. I mean I had been involved in some theater productions in high school, but nothing major. I asked her why she was asking me, and she said, ‘I think you’d be a good director.’” The teacher was right about her hunch. This is Rose’s 24th Anniversary at Barter Theatre, but the Barter wasn’t even something on his radar. “I was, happy doing what I was doing, which was working as Producing Director of American Stage
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“Most theaters across the country have an artistic director who handles the actors and chooses the plays and then there is a managing director who handles the money, marketing, and fundraising: I oversee all aspects of the theater. It is a lot of work, but there are obvious advantages.” The advantage to having one person handle both positions means that there is someone running the theater that understands the actors, but also understands that the theater, in the end, is a business. “The key to running any successful business is to hire the best personnel and support them in their jobs for the greatest possible success. The team we have here at Barter are top-notch professionals, who I am honored to work with every day. We all work hard with long hours, but we get to do what we love and that means sharing our love of theater with as many people as possible.” To that end, Barter Theatre has, over the years, established many outreach and educational programs in order to reach the younger generation. “We are proud of all of the programs we have going on here at Barter and the actors who go out into the community to participate,” says Rose. Among the programs Barter Theatre has going on are Barter Youth Academy, which offers acting for kids of all ages. Students learn about theater, self-confidence, team building and life skills from the audition to the final performance on-stage in front of a live audience. The Barter Players are a group of professional artists who perform world-class theatre for young audiences. Barter’s Young Playwrights Festival, held annually, is an event aimed at cultivating and celebrating the writing and storytelling talent of high school students. Lastly, but
OF certainly not least, there is Barter’s Project REAL. This program places teaching artists in schools in order to help students engage with the curriculum. “We all know everyone learns differently and just because that is the case doesn’t meant students should be left out of the learning process. Project REAL is something so unique and wonderful and its success speaks for itself.” Barter’s Project REAL reaches students in more than six counties in three states and the numbers are growing because of two things: demand and success. “We have seen this program help students raise their test scores 25 percent, 35 percent, and so on. They are learning curriculum through interactive theatre techniques, and they are retaining what they learn because we engrain within these techniques how the curriculum applies to their live. Thus, they understand the purpose of the lessons and retain the information.” Rose beams about the learning that is going on in these classrooms and the importance of students learning subjects like Math and
ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS WE DO AROUND HERE IS LEARN. I TELL THE ACTORS ALL THE TIME TO NEVER STOP LEARNING... Biology through such interaction. Project REAL is helping students grasp material that they had previously struggled with and, in turn, abandoned. “Remember that we are not teaching theater to students with this program, that’s Barter Youth Academy, this is for using theatre techniques to help connect students with abstract ideas. The results have been, in no uncertain terms, phenomenal.” That Rose gets especially excited about a program such as this is no surprise considering his passion for learning and his belief that independent theaters such as Barter can serve as vehicles for education. “We invite classes all the time to come here. We offer scholarships for Barter Youth Academy and find ways to help any student, regardless of income, get into the theater to see plays. This is, I believe, one of the few places left where both sides of any issue can come together in order to have a discussion. So many places today make us choose what side we’re on without allowing either side to explain their beliefs and thoughts. We see theatre as a place where people gather to experience the common ground of our humanity.” Theater is, to Rose and others, a place to learn. A neutral ground on which to discuss ideas, many of which divide us once we leave the confines of The State Theatre of Virginia. He works hard; tirelessly in fact, to garner funding from any source he can get it since, without this money, the theater would close permanently. Barter has resident actors who are employed year-round and, while other resident theaters around the country perform a handful of shows, Barter has a schedule that runs throughout the year: on two different stages. Rose is, perhaps, not an easy man to work for and there have certainly been times when he made decisions that others did not agree with, but one thing is for certain, he has made Barter Theatre a success. What was once a theater that saw roughly 40,000 visitors a year, has grown into a bustling destination that now has more
than 160,000 annual visitors from all around the globe. Visitors and successes aside, however, Richard Rose is happy Barter is still in action and has grown in its reach both in the local community and in far off places. “One of the most important things we do around here is learn. We have a saying around Barter, ‘Art equals growth’. I constantly remind us all that we must never stop learning. I’m sure everyone is tired of hearing it, but it’s the truth. When we stop learning, we stop living up to our potential as human beings.” Here’s to many more years of learning something at Barter Theatre. May the plays continue to be thought-provoking and earthshattering and may the educational programs continue in growth and depth and reach even more students than anyone ever imagined. www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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JAKE R. BATEMAN, DDS CO-OWNER, BATEMAN DENTISTRY
WRITTEN BY LARK ADAMS PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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he average first impression is formed in just seconds, and one of the ways we can all put our best foot forward is to show off a winning smile. A smile is a sign of welcome to all who see it and lets people know you are approachable and friendly. Jake Bateman, with Bateman Dentistry in Kingsport, wants to help bring renewed self confidence to all of his patients by helping them improve or maintain a great smile. Raised in Kingsport, Bateman attended Ohio State University on an athletic scholarship and continued his education at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, after a brief stint in Colorado at the US Olympic Training Center for Men’s Gymnastics. “Dentistry is the perfect marriage of art and science. It allows for creativity and is a very ‘hands on’ profession,” says Bateman. He kept an open mind throughout his undergraduate experience, and was kept very busy with a full schedule of classes and competing at elite levels in Men’s Gymnastics. He did so well at both that he was the first Buckeye (Ohio State University graduate) to ever receive a NCAA post-graduate scholarship. Honors and accolades followed him to the University of Tennessee, and he has won several awards for excellence in the field of dentistry, but he also has a strong inclination towards service. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ This Bible verse (Matthew 25:40), has guided Jake Bateman as he has established himself as a Dentist in the Tri Cities Area. In practice with his father, Rick Bateman, Jake
spends four days a week at their thriving dental practice in Kingsport, and one day a week at the Friends in Need clinic, also located in Kingsport. Bateman has always put his heart and soul into everything he does and his passion to serve is evident in every part of his work. “With regards to oral health, the sugar intake in our region is very concerning. My goal is educate, inform and make people aware of the long term effects of sugar to our teeth and systemic health,” says Bateman. “I would love to see Tri-Cities continue to promote and foster healthy lifestyles. Similar to many chronic medical conditions, oral disease of the gums and teeth can be preventable so raising awareness about the cause and effects in overall health would be a huge step in the right direction,” he states. Bateman feels it is very important to understand his patients’ perspectives. “I think listening is the main key to making a difference in patient’s lives. Our number one goal with patients is to build their trust. If we listen to their concerns and needs, we can make a difference,” says Bateman. “It sounds trite, but I try to always be genuine,” he adds. “I treat others as I would want to be treated. I think both of these things will go a long way, regardless of one’s field of expertise.” Married less than a year to Dr. Laurel Meriwether Bateman, also a dentist, and a native of Jackson, Tennessee, both enjoy exploring the natural beauty of our area and spending time with their English bulldog. It’s all smiles around the Bateman house, and with very good reason!
Thank you, Jake, for all that you do! 1 5 6 7 N . E A S T M A N R D , S U I T E 1 6 | K I N G S P O R T, T N | ( 4 2 3 ) 2 4 6 - 9 2 3 1
PAT BREEDING PRESIDENT, GRC CONSTRUCTION
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at Breeding was raised to believe that if he worked hard everyday, and did things right the first time, that all the satisfaction he needed in his professional life would come to him. Regarding this subject, Breeding says, “I do my best everyday knowing that I come up short at times, but I get up the next day and give it another try. I think the most gratifying thing that I get to do on a daily basis is to create a work environment that allows not only success for our company, but also provides a place that will allow each individual to be successful in their career as well as to grow as a person.” Growing up with a father and grandfather in construction meant that Breeding has “construction in his blood” but that he also was made to do a lot of the jobs that others didn’t want to. “The perks of being a ‘bosses son’ I suppose,” he says with a smile, “but it taught me the value of an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work.” Pat Breeding graduated from East Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s in Construction Engineering Technology and promptly moved away from the place he calls home. “After starting a family, however, my wife, Bonny and I soon realized that we wanted to raise our kids as we were raised.” A move back to Kingsport was completed in 1996 and the Breedings have been here ever since. The Kingsport area, indeed the entire Tri-Cities area, has changed a great deal since 1996 but the changes, according to Pat, have been positive. “People in this area are so proud of their heritage and history of their community and there is a real sense of connectivity to that past. I think many in this area do a great job in
WRITTEN BY PENNY GOODWHISTLE PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAT BREEDING
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preserving our past while moving forward to create a better lifestyle for the region.” As an example Breeding cites the old Kingsport Press site that has been repurposed into medical offices, Kingsport City Schools offices, home for the Kingsport Chamber’s offices as well as home of the Farmer’s Market and the Carousel. “These are great examples of maintaining our heritage and history while improving the lifestyle of our city.” This improvement and the connection of the past to the future is an integral ingredient in any further enhancements that occur within Kingsport and the Tri-Cities region. “I would like to see the Tri-Cities continue to grow on a controlled trajectory and to recruit more manufacturing businesses. It is important that we continue to bring established businesses to our area, but also that quality should prevail over quantity.”
Blue Ridge Properties
With this in mind, Breeding, along with his partners at GRC Construction, work hard to ensure that the projects they work on are of the highest quality possible. “The fact that I have the opportunity to help individuals or businesses take what they feel may be a dream, or an unobtainable goal, and make it a reality is one of the things that brings me the most pleasure in my career. To see a project go from concept to completion is very rewarding. There are not a lot of professions that at the end of the day can look back and see something measurable or tangible.” Pat readily admits that he is afforded the opportunity to work on such great projects because he works with some of the best professionals in the industry. “As an older professional, I can learn so much from these young, intelligent professionals. They bring so many fantastic new ideas to the table that it can only make us stronger and be more competitive in the market place. In turn, I hope that I can lead by example. I think it’s important that I never ask anyone to do anything that I wouldn’t be willing to do myself.” To that end, Pat Breeding works tirelessly in both his professional and personal life to lead by example and to ask nothing of others that he wouldn’t do himself first. “I was raised that life is most rewarding when giving, and I do my best to live by this principle. I am fortunate enough to be involved with some incredible organizations such as the Kiwanis Club & the YMCA that gives me an avenue to give back to the community: a community that has given so much to my family and me.” Breeding is confident that he has both the patience and willingness to work through any challenges that may arise: a must for any leader. “In my profession you must be prepared to deal with circumstances that are out of your control, the unexpected and unforeseen, so you have to be ready to adjust accordingly and do so in a timely manner. I do have high expectations of others, and of myself, but along with these high expectations sometimes comes frustration. I have learned that I must have the patience to deal with these frustrations so that any curveballs can be dealt with appropriately. Anyone can make mistakes but what separates the good from the great is how we respond to these mistakes.” Fantastic advice that anyone, young or old, can use to be successful in any aspect of his/her life.
Watauga Orthopaedics
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RUSSELL CAMPBELL OWNER & CEO, CAMPBELL FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. WRITTEN BY PENNY GOODWHISTLE PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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drive through the area in 1988 left a lasting impression on Russell Campbell, so much so, that he decided at that quick stop for a bite to eat that moving to the Tri-Cities region is just what he would one day do. “I remember asking my dad, ‘wouldn’t this be a beautiful place to live’ and he remarked that it would.” Over the years things fell into place and, in 1994, Campbell got the chance to transfer for work so he did: setting up shop in Kingsport. “The company I was with at the time closed, but I was already settled and determined to stay. I had put roots down with the establishment of Campbell Financial Group. We have offices in Kingsport and Knoxville and a satellite office in Greeneville and, between my wife Dee and I, we are able to offer our clients all kinds of retirement planning options and investment solutions based on their individual needs.” Campbell admits, though, that his business is so much more than just offering insurance solutions to people facing retirement: that would go against his need to help.
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OF “I’m so happy and proud to be able to offer people what I like to call ‘sleep insurance.’ They can sleep soundly at night knowing that their retirement money is going to be right where they left it when they wake up. They will never outlive their income, and they will have a legacy to leave their loved ones when they graduate and go to heaven.” Russell and his wife Dee have years of insurance experience under their respective belts and using that experience to help others is something that Campbell learned from an early age. “My mother was very involved with the church and I picked up a lot of her generosity and the generosity of the Christian spirit in the church. The lessons taught to me in the church have stayed with me my whole life. I credit my faith with showing me how and giving me the tools to share my blessings with others, whether that’s donating time or money to help those less fortunate, or by sharing my financial knowledge and skills with clients, family, friends, and members of the community.” Both of his parents, in fact, have been remarkable influences on Campbell’s life and, although they are now gone, the work ethic he saw in them is something he strives for still today. “My father had a serious work accident that left him with some physical problems that he dealt with the rest of his life. I never once heard him complain or use those issues as an excuse. When I’m having a problem I like to think about my dad and everything that he overcame and how he was always grateful to God for being alive.” The faith felt by both of his parents, and imparted upon Russell, is a gift for which he is thankful for today and something Russell uses in order to help others in any way he can. One might imagine that selling insurance is not a lofty position that will allow a person to reach others, but that sentiment is completely wrong as demonstrated by Russell Campbell. “I’m grateful to God for giving me the opportunity to put my stubbornness and determination to work for our clients so that they don’t have to worry about their hard-earned retirement dollars, how they will pay for care if they or their spouse become ill, or whether or not they will be able to leave something to their loved ones. There is a lot to be said for peace of mind and I’m blessed to be able to provide that to my clients.” Simple insurance sales? No. Touching the lives of others and making a difference through his calling? Yes! Asked about one of the strengths he sees in the Tri-Cities and Campbell is quick to talk about the influx of those coming to the area to retire. “The climate here is great, and the real estate is affordable. There are also a lot of quality options for healthcare and assisted living/nursing facilities.” Russell admits that these things are great for those looking to spend the twilight of their lives somewhere, but the most important reason he believes that so many are looking to retire to the Tri-Cities area is one thing: community. “Everyone is so friendly and there is a strong sense of community here. There exists in the Tri-Cities a small-town feel, but with many of the conveniences of a larger city. People smile and wave to each other and ask how your day is going because they genuinely want to know. It’s so important for people who are planning their retirement and for older adults to be able to have a community they can be active members of. It can be a real shock to people when they retire and they suddenly don’t get community interaction anymore. The Tri-Cities offers a lot of opportunities for
people of that age to be involved and active and be part of something larger.” Retirees add a different dynamic to the area, one that needs to be paid attention to, so with that in mind I ask Campbell where he wants to see the Tri-Cities in five years. “While the Tri-Cities has a lot to offer retirees and pre-retirees in the way of community and inclusion, it would be nice to have some more venues that catered more specifically to people of that age group. A lot of the malls, shopping centers, and parks seem suited to a younger crowd and I’d like to see some more places aimed toward older adults.” No doubt Russell Campbell will continue to do his part to allow older adults and retirees to have the ability to spend money in the place they have decided to call home. “I’m happy to speak to anyone who has questions about their retirement options, estate planning, and/or insurance needs, even if it’s just to answer their questions. If I can’t offer you something that’s going to be better for your situation than what you are already doing, I’m going tell you that. Even just knowing that I’ve been able to help someone become more informed about their financial situation and options is hugely fulfilling to me. Even if that person doesn’t end up doing business with me, I feel gratified knowing that whatever decision they make it will be an informed decision.” Honesty is a trait not often found these days, but it is a refreshing thing to find and something that Russell Campbell works tirelessly at providing to all those who cross his path.
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BILL FAVORITE
GENERAL MANAGER, MARQUEE CINEMAS
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OF WRITTEN BY LARK ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Although Favorite has only been in the Tri Cities area for a little over a year, he has already been impressed with the natural beauty of our area. He loves to take his visiting family members to the South Holston Dam and can’t wait to try out the fishing he has seen so many doing there. He also has seen the passion for the Tri Cities that comes through our local community and business leaders. “The pride of the Tri Cities show through the people I have met. Bristol has so much tradition, such as State Street, the Bristol Motor Speedway, and being the Birthplace of Country Music. I am sure with large area developments such as The Pinnacle, that Bristol and the entire Tri Cities has many more traditions and memories to make.”
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any of us have strong memories of our experiences at the movies, and Bill Favorite, Corporate Operations Manager/ General Manager of the Bristol Pinnacle, with Marquee Cinemas, is no exception. On a recent visit to the area of one of his children and his granddaughter, Favorite said the entire family headed to the Pinnacle 12 Marquee Cinemas to take in a show. “It is the perfect family outing since going to the movies is an all-ages activity,” says Favorite. “We see lots of large family groups coming in, particularly during the holidays when it may be too cold or too hot to be outside. This is something everyone can do and be together.” For the past 15 years, Favorite has worked with Marquee Cinemas, which has 17 locations stretching along the East Coast from New Jersey to Florida. Headquartered in Beckley, West Virginia, Marquee is a private, family owned operation, and their 12-theatre location in Bristol is their newest and most technologically advanced. All twelve of their theatres in Bristol have electric reclining chairs with plush, high backs, and stadium seating. In addition, they have cutting edge digital sound systems, with specially designed wall panels to enhance acoustics. While Marquee Cinemas does everything possible to provide the best experience for regular movie goers, their community focus has expanded to include those with special needs, and they are currently looking for a community organization to partner with them in bringing in groups that have sensory issues. For these people, the lights in the theatre are turned up, and the sound is turned down, to allow everyone to enjoy their experience. Marquee Cinemas has also partnered with other community organizations on their fundraisers. “Whenever there is a movie tie-in with a group, we allow them to promote going to the movie at Marquee Cinemas as a way of raising funds,” says Favorite. “In fact, Marquee recently won a national award for community involvement regarding movie promotion, and we were pleased to present that $1,000 award to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life group that participated in the event,” continued Favorite.
Community involvement aside, Favorite says he is happiest at the front door of the Marquee Cinemas, welcoming everyone that enters as if they are guests in his own home. Although he loves movies, and particularly the action adventure and science fiction ones, it isn’t easy for him to see entire features; “I think I have seen the beginning, middle and end, of most of the movies that come out,” laughs Favorite. “It is just sometimes difficult to see a whole picture all the way through.” Honesty and integrity are business traits that Favorite tries to instill in everyone he leads, whether it is a young high school staff member or a member of the management team. A good positive attitude is the main ingredient that everyone should start the day with. “I often say that it’s hard to teach a good attitude; it really must come from within. Give me anyone with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and I can teach them the tasks that will help them succeed.” Favorite is extremely proud of the team he has at Marquee Cinemas, both this current location as well as others he has worked in with the company. “I have seen many younger employees over the years that went on in life to achieve big goals. One of the women I hired went on to become a doctor, and another owns her own company in Hawaii. And I am really gratified when someone I have worked with continues on to a management role with Marquee Cinemas. Two of the people I hired in Beckley, West Virginia as 16 year-old staff members are now the General Manager and Assistant Manager at that location. I take great pride in them, and know through their hard work and great attitudes that they will continue to grow within our company.” Bill Favorite and Marquee Cinemas are always looking for ways to enhance the customer experience. Currently they show classic movies on Sundays and Wednesdays, and are getting ready to kick off their summer movie club. At 9:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from the end of May until mid-July, families can choose between two different PG rated animated movies to enjoy – completely free! It is Marquee Cinemas way of making the movies accessible to all. For more information, or to check movie times, please visit http://www. marqueecinemas.com/ and click on the Bristol Pinnacle 12 location.
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CHRIS FORD TRI-CITIES PREMIER TRAINER, ANYTIME FITNESS KINGSPORT
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YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE RICH OR FAMOUS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS CARE ENOUGH TO TRY.
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OF both life and business. “Growing up and not having much makes anyone better understand what it’s like to be without. If you have been cold and hungry you don’t want other people to be cold and hungry. I feel like if you are blessed enough to give something to the community and to others then you should. Everyone has something to give even if it is just an ear to listen: just listening sometimes can make all the difference.”
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hris Ford does what he does every day for others, because helping others reach goals allows him a personal fulfillment. “I don’t do it for me. I do it for the people who count on me. I do it for the people who believe in me and I do it to inspire other people.” What Ford does may seem superficial on the surface, but when Chris Ford is involved something others might do just for looks is to him a mission for a deeper than surface healthy. “I get to help people change their lives and I get to watch people transform; not just physically but mentally. I get to help others reach their goals and seeing someone do something they thought they could never do or reach a goal weight is an awesome feeling.” For Chris, what started out as a way to be healthy for football, ended up becoming a way of life. “I started weightlifting in high school because of football and quickly fell in love with it. Pretty soon the weights were more important than football itself. I have worked different jobs over the years, but at the end of the day I always just wanted to be in the gym either working out or helping other people workout. One day it just clicked, ‘if this is what I love do I should make it a career’. I guess you could say that I followed my heart!” Following his heart means that the business that he has created is one that is not only customer focused, but also friend focused. “Business is personal here. Customers are friends and friends are customers. The way you treat people makes a huge difference in this area. If you are good to people here they will be good and loyal to you.” Loyalty is something that has helped Ford to build his business because understanding is something that Chris knows is important in
On his way to becoming an integral part of the community in Kingsport, Chris Ford has seen several things that he would change about the place he grew up and the region that he loves. “I want to see a more health conscious Tri-Cities. I want to see gyms, the green belt and Bays Mountain as busy as the bars and restaurants. I want to see more programs for the youth.To help them discover and find his/her calling in life and not just go to college or join the army. I want more programs to help the homeless get back on their feet: not just handouts, but a hand up. I want to see more programs that give shelter and food and job placement over six-month span until they can get going on their own. Overall I just want to see a healthier and more caring Tri-Cities.” Chris Ford works one hundred percent every day for his customers and friends and is sure, that given the opportunity, anyone who wants to see the Tri-Cities thrive will do the same because, “you give out what you put in.” Very well said indeed.
Seeing people waiting outside a local food bank inspired Chris Ford to start the flexing on hunger program. A lot of the places that feed the homeless are closed on the weekends, so Chris started making food bags to give out on Friday to, kind of, “bridge the gap.” It took off after that with, not only food bags, but also food for the pantry and hygiene products. Hopefully, it will continue grow into a full time program. You can drop off any donations to Chris at The New Anytime Fitness, Xcellerated Fitness or at Hunger First.
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STEVE E. GRINDSTAFF CEO/OWNER GRINDSTAFF AUTOMOTIVE GROUP KIA • FORD • CHRYSLER DODGE • JEEP • RAM
WRITTEN BY GEORGE EMERSON PHOTO BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY
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teve Grindstaff has always given his cell phone number out to customers and, in fact, even before cell phones were popular he had one so that people could reach him when they needed to. “I was one of the first people in the area to have a cell phone, and the customers knew they could reach me. I was honest with them and I always took care of them after the sell; just like I do now. Most importantly, they helped me continue to grow by sending me customers from their own families and friends and without those customers then I wouldn’t be where I am at today.” Grindstaff, admittedly, wouldn’t be where he is today without a lot of help from a great many people but, he says, that’s part of what makes this region so great. “The Tri-Cities is my home and my heart. I have been fortunate to travel the world to see and experience cultures that make me so appreciative to not only be an American, but thankful for where I call home. The Tri-Cities is truly a unique area filled with giving people.” Despite living in a place that is filled with so many who work so hard for the community, Steve remembers a time when that extra help was not around: something he helps to remedy for today’s youth. “I grew up extremely poor and have always felt passionate about helping other kids who grew like me. My drive came at an early age when I worked two jobs when I was around nine years old so I could help my mother make ends-meet while she was taking care of my sick grandmother. I didn’t like wearing hand-me-downs and holes in my shoes. I figured that life would only provide certain opportunities and that it was ultimately up to me if I wanted to change my circumstances.” Hard work got Steve on the road to success, but the poverty he came from always stayed with him in his mind. “Kids don’t always have positive mentors in their everyday life. I have always felt like I could help these kids rise out of their situations to know that someone from their similar background would support your dreams where I didn’t have anyone to do that for me.” With that mentality Steve set about to change things for those kids that were less fortunate and who needed that spark to get them going in the right direction. “I started the Carter County Academic Awards banquet twenty-plus years ago to reward the students who don’t get the recognition like sports teams do. I would either rent the Milligan College cafeteria or the Holiday Inn so the students could bring their family to celebrate their
academic success. I would bring in Miss America, Miss Tennessee or even someone similar to me in business to show them you can graduate high school, go to college and lead a positive and successful life at any level.” Grindstaff ’s reward for all of this is that adults have visited today him on countless occasions: seeking him out to tell him about their successes and happiness. From the beginning of his career, Steve Grindstaff knew that there was a definite need for mentors in the area, especially, he says, “in my home town of Elizabethton.” Some of his fondest memories are when he did a school tour to all the Carter County Schools and Elizabethton City schools. “During the tour I brought the newest technology for the kids of all ages, which then were big Apple computers. This was in the early 80s, so everything was big including my hair. I also knew that there has always been limited funding for teachers in supplies. I made sure those teachers had the right tools to lead our kids in the classroom.” When he is not helping kids in the community however, he is busy running his business. Whatever you do, though, don’t call what Steve Grindstaff does-work. “I love what I do! I don’t feel like its work, maybe just a few times a year I do get tired and need a break but the car business is in my blood. I work 6-7 days a week almost fifty weeks out of the year. I work around the clock to make my customers happy, but most of all I do this my family. Besides my customers and my family, the philanthropy work that we do makes both my wife and I fulfilled. Ashley and I care so much for our community especially charities helping children.” Asked what he wants to see for the future of the Tri-Cities area and Grindstaff is quick to answer with one word: growth. “I would love to see new business come to the area through the help of less taxes and regulations.” Aside from giving to the youth in the community, Steve is big on mentoring as well and ensures the success of his business by offering a mentoring program that helps new employees learn the business from the inside out: all with the help of a seasoned employee. Above all else, however, Steve Grindstaff is a man of his word; a trait he is determined to pass down to his sons. “I tell my boys that in this life there are two things you have: your name and your word. If you lose your word, you lose everything.” Fantastic advice for anyone!
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DR. FREDERICK
GUTHRIE, JR. OWNER, BOONES CREEK DENTISTRY
Healing Hands ribbon cutting celebrating the new building and new partnerships with the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry and Delta Dental of Tennessee.
WRITTEN BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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OF a difference in my home, community, and world.” Helping in some small way is not what Rick Guthrie does; he helps in some large ways. “My work with Healing Hands means I have the ability to make a difference in someone else’s life. We work to help the underserved by giving them a smile to make them feel better about themselves. Giving everyone access to good dental care is a core desire of the organization and of mine personally. I’ve always felt it was my duty or responsibility to help others in need. I get a lot of satisfaction in being able to help somebody and I get more joy from giving than receiving.” Giving rather than receiving is a trait that Guthrie sees in many others who live and work in the Tri-Cities region and is, he says, “what makes this region such a wonderful place to live.” Besides working in his practice and volunteering with Healing Hands, Rick is involved in other activities that help to mentor the younger generation, a need he sees as integral to improving life for everyone: young and old. “I wish we had more jobs so our younger population/people could be able to stay here, live and raise families as we have and to enjoy this TriCities area. I enjoy teaching young people about responsibility and how to work hard to improve the lives of others. With the Boy Scouts it is helping with a youth program that teaches boys and young men life-long skills so that may grow into good and successful men. In my role with the Tennessee Dental Association it is being able to make a difference in my profession as it relates to serving my fellow dentists and at Healing Hands Clinic I enjoy mentoring young dental students by building lasting relationships with them. It is important to me so one day they may in turn do the same for a young and up and coming student under their charge.”
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ick Guthrie, Jr. never really imagined that he’d be anything other than a dentist. “My father is a dentist and, growing up, I was always around my dad’s office and the dentistry field and found it quite interesting and saw the opportunity to help people so I decided to follow in his footsteps.” After going to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Guthrie went onto dental school at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis. Eventually returning home to start practicing with his father. Rick’s son, Van Guthrie III, has followed in both his father and grandfather’s footsteps and now all three men practice together. Something else that Guthrie received from his dad was the desire to help others and the understanding of its importance. “I was raised by a giving family and a supportive church community and I am appreciative of the life that I have. I feel as though, because of this, I should share my experiences and talents with others. I have a compassion for others less fortunate and hope to in some small way make a difference in their lives. I want to make
When asked about the Tri-Cities area in general, Rick Guthrie has nothing but positive things to say and good words to spread around. “We live in a beautiful area that wonderful people and a lot potential for growth. I am truly blessed to live in this area and glad to call it home. There are a lot of less fortunate people in this area/the world that need our help. I feel like setting an example in serving others may motivate people to be more giving.” Guthrie believes in looking for needs in the community and following those in order to give back: lessons he undoubtedly learned from his father. He follows his own advice of, “find your niche for serving.” Guthrie is certainly a man who works hard to practice what he preaches. “What drives me to work so hard is my desire to take care of people’s needs from my skill as a dentist. My ability to solve someone’s problem gives me fulfillment and I am always honored to know that they can have their smile and teeth for a lifetime.” Being on the UT Dental Alumni board is also an honor for Rick Guthrie and yet one more way he uses his desire to help others help their communities. “We have the rotating dental students to our home for dinner each rotation and having these students to our home for a meal is a way to get to know them and to let them know I genuinely care. I work hard to address their concerns, but I also always encourage them to support and give to their communities.” It is clear that Guthrie has a vision for life and community outreach; one that includes continual support of anyone, giver or recipient, who may need uplifting.
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DEWAYNE KIMBERLIN OWNER, KIMBERLIN FARRIER SERVICES
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OF WRITTEN BY JENNIFER ARES PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY
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ewayne Kimberlin has found that, for his business, word of mouth is usually the best method of advertisement. “Most people are very particular about the professionals who work with their horses and they want to know something about a farrier before they hire him or her. A satisfied client’s recommendation is the best advertisement there is and I have to credit the growth and expansion of my business to the personal referrals given by my clients.” Growing up in Rich Valley, Virginia, for Dewayne, meant growing up on a farm surrounded by many animals but horses have always held a special place in Kimberlin’s heart. “I have always been fascinated with horses and I enjoy working with them. They are amazing animals. Having a father who shod our horses himself, I was lucky enough to observe and learn as a child. At every horse show I attended I watched the professional farriers, learning all that I could. At age fifteen I shod my own horse and I knew then that I wanted to make it my life’s work. There is so much satisfaction in knowing the horse is set up to be the best athlete it can be. Each horse is physically unique and travels in its own fashion and must be trimmed and shod accordingly. This is critical for the performance and longevity of any horse.” The health of the horse is why he does what he does, but Dewayne Kimberlin admits that sometimes healing a horse is just about equal to healing an owner.
horse ownership and recreational enjoyment of horses. At the same time, a growing equestrian industry helps the local economy. Agriculture is supported by a growing need for forage and hay. More jobs are created for farriers, veterinarians and other equine specialists. The need for boarding and training increases as well. The National Parks in our area offer a great opportunity for growth in “equine tourism” which would benefit businesses such as campgrounds and hotels while encouraging preservation of natural spaces for recreational use. It would be nice for the area to grow while maintaining so much of the natural beauty we enjoy right now. The International Equestrian Center in Tryon, NC is one example of how advantageous a healthy equine industry can be to the entire community.” Dewayne Kimberlin is a man with a plan and one who knows what he wants in life and works hard to get it. His humility is not feigned, but genuine, and is a trait that has helped him get far in life. “Being fair, honest, and humble with every client is, I think, the key to my success. I give my best to every horse and its owner. I listen to the owner’s concerns and address them in a professional, polite, and honest manner. When people meet and interact with mutual respect and honesty, business relationships are easy to maintain and grow.” Truer words have never been spoken.
“I want to bring happiness and peace of mind to my friends and clients. People enjoy riding and working with their horses, but an improperly shod or trimmed horse can’t perform at its peak and it may even be injured over time. I want owners to know that their horse is getting quality care. I want to give my clients the confidence that they won’t need to call the veterinarian after the farrier leaves.” Kimberlin keeps up to date with his skills by continuing with his study and training at facilities such as those at The University of Tennessee Knoxville since continuation of learning is of the utmost importance. “I challenge myself to continue learning so that I may always meet the needs of my clients and their horses. I am willing to do what it takes to help any horse, big or small, rescue or grand champion. I provide corrective and therapeutic shoeing, glue on shoes and barefoot trims. I am always available to work with special issues such as laminitis, founder, navicular, cracks and abscesses and I will gladly consult with veterinarians when needed.” That he loves his work so much is evident in the way Dewayne talks about the horses he takes care of and the owners he works with, but the region he lives in is something else close to his heart. “The most delightful things about the Tri-Cities area are the people and the land itself. It is so easy to take everyday things for granted, but as I travel from barn to barn I am always reminded how fortunate we are to live in this area of the country. It’s a beautiful place to live and a great place to own a horse.” Living somewhere and with a people who want to stay close to the land means that Kimberlin sees a population in search of something to help keep them connected to nature. His answer? Horses. “There are several, quality training and boarding facilities in the area where anyone can study dressage, jumping, and the basics of riding and safety. Farms and pastureland are available and the National Forests provide excellent trails for horseback riding.” This is what is available now for those who may not know, but what is it that Dewayne Kimberlin wants to see for the future of the Tri-Cities area? “I would like to see horse ownership increase in our area. It is a pleasure to own a horse, care for it and ride. I wish more people could experience life with horses; however, owning a horse is expensive, whether it is boarded or kept on your own property. A strong local economy helps support
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MORGAN KING VIPSEEN LIVE! SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER
WRITTEN BY PENNY GOODWHISTLE PHOTO BY MICKEY BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY
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OF Morgan went on to do weather for WCYB in Bristol and WLOS in Asheville, NC but feels he found his TV niche when he got the call to co-host Daytime Tri-Cities. “What a great gig to help people get their morning off to a pleasant start with some information and a smile. I used to watch The Morning Exchange, a TV show in Cleveland Ohio, and several years later The Today Show when Jane Pauley, Tom Brokaw, and Willard Scott were the team and I loved it. I wanted to be what they were: information entertainers.” Things were going along smoothly for many years and King was quite happy hosting Good Day Tri-Cities with his co-host Whitney Carr until, once again, life intervened and sent Morgan shooting off onto another path.
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organ King is not one to shy away from anything in life, but most especially work. The running joke about Morgan is mention a job that pays and he’ll take it with no questions asked. It might sound odd to do so, but jumping in is reflective of Morgan’s philosophy on life: when many others wonder why, King asks, ‘why not?’ To date, Morgan King has held nearly forty jobs in fields as wide ranging as steel mill worker, to barber, to a year working as a harness maker with the Amish. “I lived with the Amish for a year and worked in a Harness Shop in Mesopotamia, Ohio. No electricity, horse and buggy transportation, no indoor plumbing; the whole bit. Why wouldn’t I take the opportunity? I learned a lot.” King is certain that all of the job experiences that he has had over the years is what has led him to where he is now. “I am able to connect with most folks on some level in an interview because of my cornucopia of life experiences. Empathy and understanding are imperative to being a successful broadcaster.”
“It came as quite a shock when WKPT-TV announced that they would cease local programming in January of 2017. I immediately sent an email to friends and clients of Good Day Tri-Cities informing them of the unfortunate turn of events.” Morgan was pleasantly surprised when, as he likes to say, “the skies opened up and the angels sang. My last day at WKPT was my first day at VIPSEEN Magazine. Angela Baker and Angelica Ares had contacted Whitney and I about doing a live segment for the magazine. The rest, they like to say, is history.” A friend had recommended to VIPSEEN that they start LIVE! Streaming on their Facebook page in order to take their readers to the events that they cover in the pages of their magazine. Whitney and Morgan now do what they used to do on TV, but they do it LIVE! on the Internet. Anyone can follow their adventures on the VIPSEEN Facebook page VIPSEEN LIVE! with Whiney and Morgan and they will soon be streaming to YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter as well. No one can say that Morgan King has led a boring life up to this point and, judging by his past exploits, it is anyone’s guess what the future holds but one thing is clear: he will continue to entertain. “I play bass guitar for three services each week at Cornerstone Church in Johnson City. My wife Linda, a nurse recruiter for Wellmont, and I love nature walks and to bike as much as possible. Our two children, Benjamin and Eliza, both live in Charlotte so we try to get to see them and our grandkids as much as possible along with everything else we do.” Slowing down is not an idea that seems to exist in King’s mind and collecting dust is a task left solely for those who have no sense of adventure. Not a single person anywhere will catch Morgan King sitting on his laurels when there is work to be done, but I have a feeling that he wouldn’t want it any other way.
Morgan’s broadcasting career began innocently enough at The First Contemporary Christian station in the Tri-Cities: WPRQ. Here, he went from a weekend volunteer, to eventually working his way up to hosting the weekday morning show known as “Morgan in the Morning”. The next stop was as a DJ at 98.5 WTFM: filling in on any shift that needed him and still fills in on occassion. King then made his move into television as fill-in weatherman until eventually taking that position full time. “I think most people can see, just from watching local television, that broadcasting is a nomadic venture.”
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Is Male Menopause Real? ANDROPAUSE, or male menopause (“man-opause”) is the name given to the gradual drop in testosterone that typically affects men between the ages of 40 and 55. Low testosterone, also known as hypogonadism, affects an estimated 13 million men in the U.S.
This decline in male hormones is a natural phenomenon; no man can avoid it. Due to lifestyle factors including stress, poor diet, a lack of physical activity and poor sleep habits, more men under the age of 40 are affected by low testosterone levels.
SYMPTOMS OF LOW TESTOSTERONE
When a man’s testosterone levels are low, he may experience the following symptoms: • Decreased muscle & strength • Depression • Declining ability to concentrate • Lack of energy • Low libido • Weak erections If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation 423.854.9200.
Testosterone helps maintain a feeling of well-being Testosterone helps maintain healthy bones and muscles Testosterone helps maintain sex drive, sperm count, and fertility
We Can Help! Our providers have designed a safe and proven program for our patients to maximize the benefits which include but are not limited to: • Increased muscle mass • Increased libido • Reduced fat • Improved sexual performance • Helps with cholesterol • Strengthens bones • Helps with diabetes • Sharpens mind • Improves mood • Improves skin tone and elasticity • Increases energy and stamina These benefits are seen when low testosterone levels are treated in hypogonadal and andropausal men.
3135 Peoples St., Suite 400 Johnson City, Tennessee 37604
Soften Your Lines, Not Your Edge BOTOX.
Each time you squint in the sunlight or raise your eyebrows in surprise, anger or sadness, small creases etch themselves into the skin. When we are younger, these furrows disappear the moment we release tension in our forehead. However, as we age, these lines – known as “dynamic wrinkles” – start to become a permanent fixture, causing us to constantly look angry, sad or just plain old. BOTOX ® Cosmetic offered here in the Tri-Cities by National Allergan Trainer, Injector Brooke Bentley FNP, B.C. is changing all that. This FDA-approved injectable skin treatment relaxes muscles in the forehead, causing wrinkles to become noticeably smaller or even disappear in a matter of days. The results last about three to four months until treatment is needed to maintain your smoother, more youthful appearance.
Tried Every Gym Class And The “Double Chin” Still Won’t Go Away? before
after
TRY KYBELLA.
Now a new fat reduction treatment for the chin is available at Advanced Medicine & Aesthetics. Brooke Bentley, FNP,B.C. was the first provider to introduce Kybella to the Tri-Cities. Call 423.854.9200 today and schedule an appointment to see Brooke Bentley FNP, B.C or use our online request form.
Call today to schedule an appointment 423.854.9200 advancedmedicinejc.com
STEVE LAHAIR
OWNER, CHEF’S PIZZERIA
WRITTEN BY GEORGE EMERSON PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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tephen LaHair started folding pizza boxes at the local pizzeria when he was thirteen years old. When he moved to the Tri-Cities area he was given the opportunity to work for Dennis and Bobbie Phillips and the rest, they say, is history. Having lived in the area, with his wife Trida, since 1993; LaHair has seen a lot of changes, both good and bad, but he wouldn’t dream of calling anywhere else home. “We are very fortunate to have citizens that love and care about their community and fellow citizens. Everyone goes out of his/her way to make others feel welcomed and it makes where we live such a beautiful part of the country.” LaHair has a “no quit” attitude about a great many things in life and supporting his community is one of them. “In life we are all presented with opportunities and challenges, but it is what we do when presented with those challenges that makes the difference between succeeding and failing.” This worldview is one that he passes on to the youngsters who come and work for him at Chef ’s Pizzeria. “I love being able to make a difference in young people’s lives. Often, we are the first place that many young adults work so we have an opportunity to teach them about work ethic, leadership skills, and
community.” Putting smiles on customer’s faces with the food they serve is a perk that comes along with the job and one that LaHair has not tired of in all these years. “Both my wife and I come from very humble beginnings and we have been blessed beyond imagination through our business. We value our customers and recognize they could choose to eat anywhere, but because they choose us; we feel it is important to give back.” Giving back is integral to any business that wants to feel a part of a community and it is something that the LaHair’s feel will only improve the Tri-Cities area. “We hope to continue to grow and work together with other businesses to develop the Tri-Cities into a regional powerhouse. We are very fortunate to have Fortune 100 companies locate here that attract some of the brightest young people from all over the world, but they also help us retain our local talent.” At the end of the day, though, Stephen LaHair is a father first and a business owner second. When asked about his kids, he smiles and says, “I want my children to be proud of their father. I want them to see that working hard at whatever you choose to do is what will make you happy.” LaHair knows he has done his absolute best at everything and that, in the end, is what fulfills him most.
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ADAM MORGAN
BRANCH MANAGER, FERGUSON ENTERPRISES, INC.
WRITTEN BY GEORGE EMERSON PHOTO BY NATHAN MAYS PHOTOGRAPHY
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OF is a very large company specializing in multiple business units, so Adam made it his priority to learn from those around him in order to understand what it would take to ensure the success of Ferguson as an organization. After a few years in sales at his Greeneville, TN location, he was given the opportunity to manage the Bristol, VA branch. But not long after that move, Morgan was transferred to Johnson City to operate the main branch with responsibilities throughout the Tri-Cities and Greeneville markets. Despite his busy schedule and workload however, something was still missing, so Adam Morgan set about to remedy the missing part of his work life. “I enjoy having the opportunity to support our local community, but I haven’t always been in a position to help. Throughout my life I can remember looking with admiration at those who put the goodwill of others in front of self. I don’t feel that it’s an obligation; it’s really just an opportunity to enhance someone else’s life. Most recently we partnered up with HFOT (Homes for our Troops) to provide a new mortgage free home for one of our local veterans: SSG Joshua Hall. SSG Hall was injured by an IED while on tour in Afghanistan and his injuries have made it nearly impossible to complete everyday tasks that most of us take for granted. We were able to provide monetary support, as well as ADA fixtures, in order to make maneuvering throughout his home much less difficult. After initially reading SSG Hall’s story I couldn’t get on board quick enough. It felt great to be in a position to help.”
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dam Morgan came to live in the Tri-Cities area much like others have over the past years: an unexpected move. “Both of my parents are Kentucky natives, but my father was attending school in Columbus, Ohio prior to receiving a job offer in east TN. I grew up in the Bristol area and, after graduating from Tennessee High School; I attended East Tennessee State University on a football scholarship. I have lived in this area for more than thirty years.” Like his move here, Morgan’s foray into the HVAC business was accidental as well, but something he doesn’t regret since it has provided him with steady work for all these years. “During summer breaks at ETSU, several of the athletes would find local jobs and stay close to school instead of going home for the summer. For three consecutive summers, I worked for a local HVAC company doing various trade related tasks and pretty much anything they asked of me. During this time, though, I acquired something that would later prove to be very beneficial to my career: a trade. After college I wasn’t sure exactly what it was that I wanted to do, but I was sure of one thing; I needed a paycheck. I made a few calls and got hired by a local HVAC company using what little knowledge of the business I had acquired thus far. Seven years later I found myself with the same company working as a foreman running light commercial jobs in SC, VA, NC, and TN.” So what started as a way to make money during summer breaks from school had indeed turned into a full-time gig, but life was soon to thrown Adam Morgan more opportunity: a defined career path. “A close friend, and current Branch Manager, Mitch Harris reached out to me about an opportunity as an Inside Sales associate with Ferguson Enterprises. It was a completely different career path and one that presented many challenges and obstacles.” Ferguson Enterprises
Seeing others be successful in the place that he has come to call home is important for Adam Morgan and a goal he strives to reach both in his personal and professional life. The success of the Tri-Cities is, ultimately, what Morgan hopes to be a part of through his position with Ferguson. “I’m a Bristol native, I have family in Kingsport, and I live and work in Johnson City so I am obviously vested in this area. This region has so much going for it already but, as with anything, there is always room for improvement. We need to be able to attract more people to the area and by providing a greater platform for entertainment, dining, and recreation then we should be able to achieve our goals. Geographically speaking we’re already in pretty good shape. We have many attributes that other parts of the country simply can’t provide. If we can continue to parlay our geographical strengths with new business, then our five-year picture looks very good.” Adam Morgan is a man who knows his strengths and weaknesses, though, and understands that looking at the big picture means that the devil is in the details. “The big picture answer is pretty simple: gain a thorough understanding of what drives your company and then facilitate that to the best of your ability. To do this you need to listen, understand the climate around you, and also have a very good understanding of self. Set measurable goals and hold yourself accountable.” On a smaller and more personal scale, Morgan understands that detail and introspection are just as important as a broad view. “I understand were my strengths lie and am determined to improve on my weaknesses. I know that personally, and as an organization, there is room for improvement and I embrace that challenge. Every day opportunities present themselves that can allow me to get better.” Adam Morgan will continue to use this dual viewed approach in order to better serve Ferguson, so that Ferguson can better serve the Tri-Cities.
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C. DON ROYSTON, CPA, CGMA
WRITTEN BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED
DIRECTOR, BROWN EDWARDS & COMPANY, LLP
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on Royston was born and raised in Bristol, Tennessee and lived there until his graduation from East Tennessee State University. After graduation Royston took a job in Kingsport with Dent K. Burk Associates PC where he worked for over forty years until that firm merged with Brown Edwards & Company, LLP. Don grew up in a loving and giving family and, taking a cue from both of his parents, decided that going through life without giving to others was not an option. “As a child I helped sell peanuts and cook pancakes with my father in the Kiwanis club and worked with my mother in her volunteer activities with church. To this day my 89-year-old mother gets up in the morning prays for those on her list and plans her day to see what she can do to help others.” His upbringing, although unique, was not unlike that childhood of his wife of forty-three years. “My wife’s parents were similar to mine in their desire to help others. Her parents, when they were in their seventies, decided to trade in the cars they owned for a van just so they could transport their elderly friends and church members to church and doctor visits!” Giving to others certainly seems like a family trait when Don and his wife are concerned.
Commerce by a group of businessmen soon after I came to Kingsport. Lane Latimer, Ron McMasters and Wendell Kirk believed in my abilities and me and allowed me to join their executive committees as treasurer during their tenure as President. In 2001 Fred Brooks came to an Emmaus prayer group and challenged us to join him in Belize building a Christian school and working on a feeding program. Two of us accepted that challenge. Ken Nichols and I started taking mission trips to Belize with students from Tri-Cities Christian Schools. I cannot imagine all the lives that the efforts of Fred Brooks have changed because he challenged us. The School continues today with an annual mission trip with between twenty-five and fifty people on each team.” One might not imagine that a CPA would be fortunate to have had many of the experiences that Don Royston has had in his community, but his ability to help others through his work is exactly why he does what he does. “As a CPA I am able to help people grow someone’s business, protect their personal wealth, and share some of my talents with organizations in the area. This helps to strengthen the long-term survival of many organizations at times when donations are slim.”
His giving spirit was something noticed by others, so much so, that they encouraged Royston to expand his reach in the community. “I was encouraged to get involved in volunteering with the Chamber of
Growing up in East Tennessee and deciding to stay here to build a life are not always two things that go hand in hand, but Royston wouldn’t imagine his life any other way. “Each of the Tri-Cities is a
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OF unique community unto itself. I learned, particularly while Chamber President, that regional co-operation is all-important to the continued growth and success of this region. This challenge existed 20 years ago and still continues today.” When he talks of co-operation and community giving, Don is talking about someone who left an indelible mark on both the citizenry and the city of Kingsport: Toy F. Reid. “To this day I believe Kingsport has the strongest volunteer base primarily because of the culture that once existed during the years that Toy Reid managed Eastman. The employees were encouraged to give back to their community with time and through United Way. I know economic times have changed, but the entire Tri-Cities could use another dose of Mr. Reid and his giving spirit.” There are many positives that Don Royston sees the Tri-Cities building on now in order to make the future of the area bright, but the one great positive he sees in this area is the giving nature of those who live here. “I have been blessed with the satisfaction of seeing positive results in organizations I have volunteered with. I have put roofs, windows, and yards in habitat houses, helped build the boundless playground, helped organize and renovate the original Safe House (Battered Women’s Shelter) and enjoyed my role as Santa on the Santa Train since 1999. My hope is that people will see the volunteer opportunities and be bold enough to step up and say yes. If you can remember that God does not necessarily call the equipped to service, but he
Thank you, Don!
For thousands of children in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, Don Royston brings Santa Claus to life. Royston has served as Santa on the Santa Train for more than 15 years and played an integral role in organizing the event for more than 30 years. Each year, he makes sure to stay on the back platform for the entire nine-hour train ride to make sure that any child who sees the Santa Train pass by has an opportunity to wave to Santa.
will equip those who answer the call.” Don Royston receives great fulfillment from volunteering and hopes that others in the community continue to answer the call as well. We are only as strong as we allow ourselves to be and strength can be found in numbers, so work to find a way to volunteer and to uplift the place we all call home. “Every single time that I have volunteered I feel as if I am the one who has been the winner: helping others is that satisfying.”
ERNIE RUMSBY PRESIDENT, TC-MAC
WRITTEN BY JENNIFER ARES PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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crappy. Tenacious. Persistent. Warm. Caring. These are just a few of the words that can be used to describe Ernie Rumsby, President of Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council or TC-MAC. Originally from Detroit, Ernie cut his teeth on the mean streets of the motor city during the 1960s: a tumultuous time for the country at large. After spending several years in the Army, Ernie separated from the services and found his way down to South Florida where he worked as a representative for labor unions. Many years later, and after crossing paths with one too many corrupt bosses; Rumsby was ready for a change. “I knew several former law enforcement officers who had been friends of mine and they had retired to the area. They said to me, ‘Ernie, come here and you’ll fall in love. Try the place out and just visit.’ So I came for a visit and ended up staying. It’s the best move I’ve ever made.” Upon his arrival in the Tri-Cities, Ernie set about getting involved in local Veteran’s Affairs: a cause dear to his heart. “The Veteran Community has had to face so many challenges over the years. These guys and gals put their lives on the line for us, and our freedoms, and then get back home and are largely forgotten about. A lot of these folks have no voice and little representation, but TC-MAC has changed that.” Ernie Rumsby has worked in Veteran’s Affairs for the last two decades, in several different capacities, so he has been able to see the challenges face by Veteran’s on many different levels. A chance meeting with the Captain running the US Army Recruiting Command in Johnson City led to the creation of TC-MAC and the start of an organization that only continues to grow in its capacity to assist Veteran’s of all services and needs.
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OF TC-MAC is fashioned after the East Tennessee Military Affairs Council based out of Knoxville, but one of the first challenges Rumsby’s new organization faced was the small footprint of military units in this area. “We decided to involve the business community in what we were doing. Jobs were badly needed for Veteran’s so we focused on providing services that would help these Veteran’s find jobs.” One of the first people Ernie went to for advice and counsel was Retired Marine Colonel Miles Burdine, CEO of the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce. “Miles loved the idea of an organization that would help Veteran’s with things like finding jobs and he gave us his blessing. He offered his help in any way. Miles is a stand-up guy. Pretty soon the Johnson City and Bristol Chambers were on board too and we were really on the move.” With their 501c3 designation, TC-MAC was soon partnering with Veteran’s all over the Tri-Cities area to face the many challenges unique to being a Veteran. “We help with things like paying light bills, paying rent, funeral costs, getting vets groceries, and tackling homelessness. Our mission statement allows us a lot of leeway and freedom to help different Veteran’s with their individual situations.” The people of the region that he has called home for over ten years now, Ernie insists, have helped TC-MAC numerous times along the way. “This is, by far, the best place I have ever lived. The people in this region are so quick to step up and help anyone else in need. Our organization has been blessed many times over by the willingness of others to step in and offer a helping hand.” Ernie Rumsby has been humbled on multiple occasions in his years with TC-MAC. “When we help someone, I mean truly help them by providing a better quality of life, we can help to remove their sense of helplessness. When a person comes to us and we’re their last resort and we can help to turn things around for them, take away their stress, or even save their life: there’s no better feeling in the world. We are able to show them that people do care and that makes all the difference sometimes.” When asked about changes he wants to see for the area, Ernie is quick to mention
more business and, of course, more Veteran’s and young families as well. “People want choices and the region is offering choices, but it needs to offer more in order to attract more families and Veteran’s. Modernizing some aspects would help, but in the end, we need to work hard to create jobs so that the Tri-Cities is a destination: a place for people to settle and stay.” Ernie Rumsby can be tough and he is the type of guy who will work hard for solutions to get what he wants, but selfish is a word that should never be used in referring to this man. Everything he does is for others and never for his own benefit or glory. His honesty is refreshing in a world where so many are willing to take advantage of or skew the facts for personal gain. “This type of service takes a lot of passion, but the benefits of helping someone else, and not expecting anything in return, is deeply fulfilling. We are truly making a difference in people’s lives. That never gets old.” Of course Ernie Rumsby, despite his gregarious nature and never-ending energy, could not accomplish any of what he does simply on his own. “Goodness no! I have so many people to thank, Miles Burdine for standing there with us early on and Sam Jones, who has been a brother to me through all of this, are just two people who come to mind. I want to thank my past and present board members for all of the many challenges that they faced with me. You guys have all made a difference!” Rumsby left our interview with a strong call to arms for everyone in the Tri-Cities area. “I want to issue a challenge to the entire community. TC-MAC is involved in Wreaths Across America every year and our goal is to make sure that every single Veteran’s grave at Moutain Home is covered so please visit TC-MAC.org to fill out an application and help us reach that goal!”
TC-MAC BOARD OF DIRECTORS (L TO R, BACK ROW) SAM JONES, JIM HUNTER, BECKY ROCKWELL, ERNIE RUMSBY, BILL KILLGORE, ARIEN HENSLEY; (L TO R, FRONT ROW) 1SGT CINDY HUMPHREY, ALLEN JACKSON, DAVID CARTER, DON GRINDSTAFF
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JOHN ABE TEAGUE
DISTRICT DIRECTOR FOR CONGRESSMAN PHIL ROE, M.D.
WRITTEN BY GEORGE EMERSON PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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OF 2017
Losing his father at age 58 when Teague himself was just thirty years old, beginning a new career with Farm Bureau, his wife Vickie taking care of twin sons Jonathan and Jason and daughter Jennifer, supporting a widowed mother and moving to Washington County helped life come into focus for the young man and his family in a hurry. “When we moved here in 1987 the only people we knew were my uncle Reece and aunt Helen Teague. Joining Munsey United Methodist Church and being an active member for the past thirty years has been not only rewarding in a spiritual sense, but brought our family in contact with some of the finest people in the region. I value the friendship of these people still today and consider them my mentors.” The fact that so many have unselfishly given to Teague over the years motivates him to give back to his community in any way that he can. “I hope to pass on an appreciation for where we live, work and play. Some learned life lessons to share with the younger generation is place a high value on trust and being honest, cultivate good friends, have humility, always do what you say you will do, exceed expectations and do not get too far from your raising. I love my family and want my children and grandchildren to have their dreams and goals looking forward to the future not losing sight of what it has taken to make this greatest nation in history.” The historical aspects of the area are not lost on Teague and are talking points he uses to point out just how special the TriCities region is.
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rowing up in rural Cocke County for John Abe Teague meant spending his summers helping his father in his automobile business, working on area farms, construction labor and learning to appreciate gaining in life through hard work, perseverance and learning to earn and save money. “My work ethic came early in life working for my father in his Chevrolet Dealership mostly doing the dirty work, but seeing the value he placed in his employees and customers. Being an Eagle Scout and living by the Scout Laws has guided me in what I do every day, and gives me the tools to be a player and not a spectator. Today, my wife Vickie of 43 years and I own farm in Telford raising grass fed Angus beef for consumption, and developing a quality Registered Angus cow/calf operation giving our children and grandchildren an appreciation for the value of work.” Work is not something, in fact, that Teague shies away from: instead choosing to stay busy with many endeavors in the community, agri-business, and proudly representing Congressman Dr. Phil Roe since 2009. “After a 25 year career with Farm Bureau I decided to step away and explore other opportunities. I served several years with the Bank of Tennessee Washington County Advisory Board during my career with Farm Bureau, then leaving Farm Bureau was ask to represent Bank of Tennessee as their Business Development Officer. I am currently serving Congressman Dr. Phil Roe M.D. as his District Director for the 12 County Congressional District TN1. The Staff involved with the day-to-day request within our District Offices in Kingsport and Morristown are fantastic and could challenge any Congressional office in the Country, they are good at what they do.”
“Tennessee is the Volunteer State and District TN-1 is a very historical part of our nation with two United States Presidents Andrew Jackson, Andrew Johnson and Congressman Davy Crockett having hailed from here. Add in Sycamore Shoals where the Over Mountain Men mustered to win the Battle of Kings Mountain, NC saving our Nation in Revolutionary War and we have a history worth talking about!” Along with history, Teague likes talking about the cooperation that is making the Tri-Cities region one region rather than separate cities with different agendas. “We work very hard to nurture our identity, create destinations for tourism, develop opportunity for jobs with a recognized work force and work ethic promoting what makes us unique here in Northeast Tennessee. Because we have such a special place to live, work, and play we must continue to cooperate across the county lines and focus on regional cooperation. It would be fantastic to have a mega-site offered for automobile manufacturing, development of the Aerospace Park at Tri Cities Airport, develop more water infrastructure to rural areas, promoting research and development in conjunction with ETSU-Quillen College of Medicine, Gatton School of Pharmacy, Mountain States, Wellmont, ETSU, and Veteran Affairs at Mountain Home.” Lofty goals for the region are nothing new for John Abe Teague and are ideas he sees as being very well within reach in the coming years. In his years on the job with Farm Bureau, Bank of Tennessee, and with Congressman Phil Roe, Teague has come in contact with countless other community members with strong work ethics and a willingness to share their values. “The beautiful thing about all of the people who have helped me along the way is they have shared their success in everything they do, and most of the time it has been done very quietly.” Quiet but effective is a great way to describe how John Abe Teague has operated as well.
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FRANK WALDO
CO-OWNER, TELE-OPTICS, INC. APPALACHIAN MILES FOR SMILES
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rank Waldo has a heart for giving back and a heart for the Tri-Cities area. His mother is from Kingsport and his father is from California, but growing up in the military, they were always on the move. After Frank finished serving in Vietnam, he had a goal to stay settled in one place for three years. He came back to Kingsport, where he fell in love with the woman he’s been married to for over 50 years, and has stayed here ever since. Frank was working in the construction industry, while his brother worked in the telephone industry. Then in 1984, Frank and his brother saw an opportunity to start a fiberoptic splicing company, and Tele-Optics, Inc. began. TeleOptics, Inc. was the first privately owned fiber-optic splicing company in the country. After traveling and working in telecommunications across the country, they decided to bring their expertise back to Kingsport. They hadn’t even worked in Tennessee yet, but after invitations from other industries in Kingsport, they started the local company. Tele-Optics, Inc. started to concentrate on the local industry and began to handle local telecommunication needs. Through the company’s quality service and great customer satisfaction, Tele-Optics, Inc. has grown into the premier telecommunications company with the best communications solutions in the Tri-Cities region. For someone just starting out and hoping to be successful in the Tri-Cities, Frank keeps his advice short. “Get involved with the community, volunteer, and really get to know the people in the community.”
SPONSORED BY
WRITTEN BY ALLISON GALLOWAY PHOTO BY VIPSEEN
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OF the number of volunteers and service providers available, they are able to see around 50 patients each day. Patients must call to make an appointment and are seen on a first come, first serve basis. Since starting Appalachian Miles for Smiles in April of 2016, over 800 people have been able to receive free dental work that they wouldn’t be able to afford otherwise. They’ve provided over $250,000 worth of dental services. This next year is set to be just as successful with 25 clinics scheduled. This means the community will have the opportunity to receive free dental work every other week this year. Appalachian Miles for Smiles is operated on a volunteer basis and would not be possible without the dentist, the dental hygienist, and the dental assistant volunteers. If you are interested in being a volunteer, please visit amfsmiles.org/volunteers. Frank finds the Tri-Cities area a wonderful and friendly place to work. He believes the atmosphere in the Tri-Cities is different than any other, with a productive environment and demand for quality work. With Tele-Optics, Inc., he loves being able to provide the TriCities with great employment opportunities and wonderful, quality services. “Working in an area that is on the cutting edge of technology and that has such a well-educated and well-trained workforce pushes us to deliver quality service,” he says. Tele-Optics, Inc. strives to reach the community’s high expectations of excellence in the workforce with their exceptional products and a variety of communication services. Frank also believes in the bright future of the region. With the great leadership in place and plans for growth based on education and the creation of more jobs, he says, “The Tri-Cities will continue to be a wonderful, safe, and healthy environment to live and work in.”
He has volunteered his time with the Santa Train for the past 18 years. The Santa Train delivers over $300,000 worth of items to thousands of people in Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee around the holiday season, and the Santa Train Scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior in the surrounding area. Frank loves to work on this project all year long, leading up to his favorite part – seeing all the excited children receive presents. Frank also volunteers with Remote Area Medical. Remote Area Medical operates mobile medical clinics that deliver free vision, dental, and medical care to those who do not have access to healthcare. These two-day healthcare events are ran by volunteers. Frank was alarmed at the number of people without access to dental care after finding out that applied to 18,000 people in Sullivan County alone. After recognizing the need for assistance in the area, he helped start Appalachian Miles for Smiles to better assist those in need of dental work that may not have the insurance to cover it. Appalachian Miles for Smiles is a mobile unit that is a five treatment bay dental clinic that sets up in different areas around East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia and offers dental services to uninsured patients. Based on
Everything that Frank does is based on his faith in God. In his day to day life, both personal and professional, he goes by the golden rule – treat others the way you want to be treated. With his work, he strives to help improve people’s quality of life by helping alleviate their pain and suffering. Volunteering with Appalachian Miles for Smiles, his greatest joy is being able to help those in need, end their pain and suffering, and give people the opportunity to have a pretty smile once again. Volunteering and giving back is a cause close to Frank’s heart. In addition to his philanthropy right here in the Tri-Cities, he has also completed mission work in other countries, mostly in Central America. He uses his work to follow the commandment – Love your neighbor as yourself. “God gives us a giving heart, and a giving spirit is God’s spirit of kindness and doing what you can to help in the positions He puts you in,” Frank says. His faith in God and his desire to follow His word is what drives Frank to work so hard. He strives to help those that are in need, and he is able to accomplish that through his work.
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MITCH WALTERS
WRITTEN BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRIENDSHIP FAMILY OF DEALERSHIPS
CEO, FRIENDSHIP FAMILY OF DEALERSHIPS
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rowing up in Ohio, Mitch Walters’ first job was a lawn mowing business and a Kool-Aid stand; both experiences that helped shape the boy into the man he is today. “As long as I can remember, I have worked and I expect I will continue to do so for the rest of my life. People say I work too much, but I promise I do have lots of fun in my life. “ ‘Work Hard So You Can Play Hard’ is a philosophy that I practice and share with others. Work is not work to me. I have always heard ‘If you love what you do you will never work a day in your life!’ This is how I feel and this is how I hope others feel as well. I am fulfilled by providing good career paths for others and for sharing our success with those who may need a boost in life.” It could very well be said that the automobile business is in Mitch’s blood, along with the joy of work, since both his father and grandfather worked in the industry as well. “My grandfather started a garage and service station in the early 1900’s and it eventually
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evolved into an automobile dealership. Upon his passing, my dad took over operations, so I have always worked in the business. As a young boy, I kind of fell in love with it and even wrote a career book in the fifth grade about wanting to become an automobile dealer. I guess if my dad was an astronaut I would have wanted to be one too, but I do not have any regrets. This business has been very good to me and my family over the years.” The Friendship Family of Dealerships is something that Walters should be proud of running. What started in 1993 as a dealer with 32 team members has grown to 17 locations with 350 team members and the business is still growing. “We want Friendship to continue to be an employer of choice because in our area the more successful we are the more we can help both our team members and our community. I want to be remembered as a man that gave
OF “My mother taught me to share and give back so it was always part of my DNA. I strongly believe in working hard and playing hard too, but I have the bible verse Luke 12:48 taped near my desk, “To whom much is given…much is expected.” This motivates me so much as I have been blessed beyond belief and I do want to do my part to give back to others.” Growing up in a lower middle class family is something, Walters tells me, which deeply influenced who he is today and how he operates. “Our life experiences guide us, so I am thankful I did not grow up affluent. Growing up as I did provides me with the motivation to work hard and try to help others get what they want and need. To that end, Mitch Walters helped to establish The Friendship Foundation, which he considers, “my greatest accomplishment and where I see me focusing as I someday phase out of the day-to-day operations of Friendship Automotive Enterprises. I have been blessed to create a great group of team members in our business and without their efforts I would not have the resources to share our success with others.” Working with others to make the Tri-Cities area even better than it is now is a task that Walters feels we should all be keen on participating in.
back more than he took in life. This is a strong motivation for me to continue our mission of successful businesses and sharing our rewards with others in the communities we serve.” When asked what sort of trait he feels is important to his success, Mitch Walters is quick to say, “finding talent!” He goes on to say, “I focus so much of our energy on recruiting, hiring and training the best talent in our area and because of this, Friendship is able to attract the best and have turnover that is so much less than other businesses in not only our area, but the nation. We focus on going from Good to GREAT in everything we do and it pays off handsomely. Friendship has been recognized as one of the Best Dealerships to Work for in America for the last five years straight. There are only seven other dealerships in America that have earned this honor as much as Friendship has. This is such a great accomplishment. Success in business is so much about people and processes and Friendship is a success in both areas.” People are important to the inner workings of a business, but people on the outside are important too and it is these very people that Walters is proud to cater to everyday.
“The Tri-Cities area is awesome in many ways. The great location, the great climate, the great people, the great natural resources all make it a wonderful area to live, work and play.” He acknowledges that, with the topography of the region working against any physical joining of the regions, everyone in the region should strive to cooperate as much as possible between the cities and counties. “We need to continue to try and work together for a common goal and agree that what is good for one part of our region benefits the other areas. Hopefully more regional cooperation will happen and make the Mountain Empire a bigger player in the future. The best thing every resident can do is to speak positive about our region and its opportunities to everyone we meet…every chance we get.” I think that this is advice that we could all get behind. Let’s all be cheerleaders for the place we all love so very much.
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EDWIN WILLIAMS
WRITTEN BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH PHOTO BY ERIC DONAHUE PHOTOGRAPHY
FOUNDER & CEO, PERSERBID
www.perserbid.com 423-454-1545
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OF “There is so much more to the Tri-Cities than meets the eye,” Edwin tells me, “There is a growing entrepreneur scene ranging from tech, to boutiques, to breweries, and so on. We have very strong cultural and outdoor scenes that draw people from around the country. The folks here are also very friendly and helpful.” In fact, it is that very friendliness and helpfulness that has helped Edwin Williams to be successful in the community that nurtured him as a child. “The Tri-Cities is a very supporting community. I wouldn’t have made it as far as I have if it were not for the people here. If you reach out to people here, they will build with you, cry with you, troubleshoot your product/service, celebrate when you get wins, and motivate you when things seem to start falling apart. I work with amazing people with the organizations I’m a part of (Johnson City Area Home Builders Association, Young Professionals of TriCities, Startup Tri-Cities, and the Ethnic Diversity Workgroup) and in creating Perserbid and I have learned so much from all of these outlets. Interacting and being a part of the community here is the best part of what I do.” Williams works hard to give back because his philosophy on life spurns him to and because he knows he only gets one chance to make a great impression.
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ometimes the things in life that have the most impact are the ones that are most random. Take Edwin Williams, for example, and the creation of his company Perserbid. “The concept of Perserbid was originally designed for the manufacturing industry back when I was living in St. Louis. I was visiting my mom one Christmas and she was complaining about a bad contractor: I had an “A-HA” moment and rewrote my business plan.” Williams is a Johnson City native but was living and working in St. Louis at the time of his “light bulb” moment, but when his business in that state closed down he figured coming home to regroup was his best plan of action. Not one to stay down long, Williams quickly got his idea for Perserbid up and running and joined the JCAHBA (Johnson City Area Home Builders Association). The website, originally meant to be of use in commercial manufacturing, is a homeowner’s dream come true when it comes to finding the perfect contractor and bid for any project. “Perserbid allows home owners to create projects for contactors to bid on,” says Williams, “then the homeowner can then compare and award the bid to their chosen contractor.” The service allows money to be held in escrow until certain milestones are met, contractors are vetted, photos can be uploaded, and customers can rate the services that are offered: everything from small electrical jobs to home additions. The service hopes to connect those contractors with homeowners rather than simply provide another “rating” service website.
“My philosophy on life is that you have one life to live how you want, so why waste it making someone else’s life miserable when you could do something to make it better? Knowing that my service will make someone’s life better, be it Perserbid or any of the organizations I’m a part of, is what drives me to work so hard. I have a chance to help mold the future of this region in a way that my friends and family will enjoy.” The Tri-Cities region is burgeoning and turning into a place, once viewed as a retiree’s destination, to a place that young people are setting to in order to have families, start business, and grow neighborhoods and communities. “I’d like to see Tri-Cities in a new renaissance centered around tech, art/culture, and outdoor life. My hope, and that of others, is that the regions operate more as a region and not independent cities: there is a lot of traffic between all the cities in East Tennessee. There is so much potential here and I would like to see the Tri-Cities grow, all while keeping property prices down as well. What Edwin Williams wants for the region is not totally out of reach or impossible by any stretch of the imagination. He has launched, with the input and help of countless others in the building industry, a website that will streamline the process of finding and choosing a contractor for many in the region. Improvements in the housing sector will only help to attract more to the region that he grew up in and that he has come to appreciate even more as an adult. What is the one thing that helps Edwin Williams in his day-to-day life? Perseverance. “Perserbid has taught me that in spades. Nothing happens in the time frame you think it will. Also, nothing you do in business is as easy as the books say they are and you’ll make mistakes too. You just have to focus and keep going.” Focus is something that Williams has and, mistakes aside, his focus, drive, and love of the East Tennessee region are all things that will keep him moving in a positive direction for years to come.
www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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VIPBEAUTY
Man’s Clipper Cut BY SHERRI JESSEE
before.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS | MODEL: KEVIN DERR
1 2
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Create graduation by changing guard to #2 and and then to a #1.5.
june 2017 | www.vipseenmag.com
3
Separate top section and clip out of the way. Begin by cutting hair in bottom section with #3 guard on the Babyliss Pro Volare X2 Clippers.
Clean up around edges using Wahl Sterling MAG trimmers.
4
Cut to connect the sides with the top and to create texture using Rusk Beta texturizing shears.
5
Direct the top using your fingers and a Sam Villa ETC Dryer. Add separation with PRAVNA Detail.
finished look.
SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL TRAIN STATION
PENNY KELLEY WITH RON AND CHARLENE HANNEKEN
ROBERT HAVLIK AND KIM SIMS
TEAM BELLAFINA CHOCOLATES!
2017 YWCA Tribute to Women PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
JERRY AND TINA CAMPER
MEGAN MARTIN AND RACHEL CALLOWAY
What an inspirational evening as the YWCA honored nine local women for their accomplishments. The categories of honor were: Nurture, Empower, and Transform. As I listened to the stories of each of these amazing women, one thing stood out to me was the tremendous hearts of each of these ladies. They continually pour of themselves into the community and all those to whom they come into contact. Before the awards, guests were invited to mingle and enjoy some wine and appetizers. The soft tones of the live bluegrass being played by Blake and Jamie Collins set the tone for an elegant evening. Dinner was served followed by the Awards ceremony. This year ’s honorees were: Tina M. Camper, Mary Margaret Denton, Carol Transou, Brenda Barnicki, Susan Reid, Muriel Kagan Zager, Ruth Moseley King, CeeGee McCord and Melody Trimble. Congratulations!
AWARD WINNERS!
DR. DREW RICE, DR. JONATHAN CLARK, AND DR. PATRICK SAAVEDRA
KAREN SULLIVAN, BARBARA NIEMCZAK, REBECCA FEASTER, AND MURIEL ZAGER
CEEGEE MCCORD AND AIMEE DAVIS
Serve it up Sassy
Knock it Out of the Park for Dad!
K
nock it out of the park this Father’s Day with an All-American Lunch! Dad will sure love your creativity for this early summer celebration. Turn his love for the game into a baseball -themed luncheon guaranteed to make your dad’s big day a smash-hit!
Break out the patriotic red, white and blue and transform the back yard into a field-of-dreams for dad’s special day. The dining table becomes the infield with a layer of faux turf as the tablecloth while a ball & glove, helmet and bat are grouped together as the centerpiece. In keeping with the All-American pastime Mason jars are painted white with red stitches to resemble a base ball that holds utensils in their place and later the beverage. Red and white placemats and checked napkins add starspangled panache to the classic white dinner plate. Boxed Old Fashioned Cracker Jack and miniature Baby Ruth Candy Bars greet dad and family members as they approach the pre-set table and place settings. Step up to the plate and take a swing at this simple menu for a Father’s Day lunch. The ballpark food includes Corn Dogs, Hamburger Sliders, and French Fries. The hamburger sliders are filled with Worchester sauce, Jalapeno Ranch dressing, and cumin. Prepared mustard is spread on both sides of the raw burger before grilling creating a seal that keeps the hamburgers moist on the inside. Toasted slider buns are layered with leafy green lettuce, ground sirloin burger topped with Pepper Jack cheese, sliced red onions and tomatoes, making this stacked slider a home run. You could serve regular sized burgers instead of the mini sliders, but with the corn dog and French fries the slider covers the bases. Not to throw a menu curve ball, but you might want to bake an extra batch of the Brown Sugar Bacon Fries. Crispy thin frozen fries are baked and sprinkled with sea salt and brown sugar granules. Bacon strips are coated with black pepper and brown sugar during the baking process that adds a sweet, salty, and spicy flavor to ordinary fries. Serve these fries in a blue star-studded paper cone with sticks of sweet peppered bacon making this side dish a grand slam! The Corn Dogs are made with a semi-thick batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Long chopsticks are inserted in to the all-beef hot dogs and provide the most stable support for frying. When making corn dogs, you need to coat each hot dog with cornstarch first then coat
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RECIPE DEVELOPMENT, FOOD STYLING, PHOTOGRAPHY AND ARTICLE BY LIZ BUSHONG
with the batter. If the batter is too thick the inside batter will not be evenly cooked for the outside of the batter will brown very quickly in the hot canola oil. If the batter is to thin and you don’t coat the hot dogs with cornstarch the batter will not stick to the hot dog. You also need to serve these dogs as soon as they come out of the fryer or keep in a low temperature oven to stay crisp. If by chance you splash hot oil on you hands during the frying process, cornstarch makes a great calming and healing treatment. What is more American than a Cherry or Apple Pie? Mini Lemon Cherry Pies are easy to assemble and serve. Greek yogurt and Lemon Curd are creamed together for the filling of the mini graham cracker crust pies. Canned cherry pie filling covers the top of the custard making these desserts one for the record. Keep the pies refrigerated until ready to serve, the red cherry pies presented on a white serving platter complements the red, white and blue color scheme and tastes great after all the fried foods. This special occasion meal is on the greasy side so if you want to lighten it up, change the corn dogs to regular hot dogs with maybe a side of kraut and skip the fries. A baseball game isn’t the same without peanuts and root beer. Dad’s Old Fashioned Root Beer sports the dark bottles with its brand label, “America’s Premier Root Beer”. Soak a few shelled peanuts in a cold brew of root beer for a refreshing beverage anytime during this special day of celebration. America’s favorite pastime inspires fans of all ages, especially dads who love the game. So batter up… get a game plan and go for the triple play. Serve the first pitch to your team for celebrating your dad’s day with an easy to prepare All-American menu. As you wind up your lunch celebration take a moment to let your dad know that he is one of your favorite all-time MVD’s…most valuable dad.
Helping you Make a Statement, Make is Sassy and Make it Yours! ® For more ideas and recipes: lizbushong.com http://www.dadsrootbeer.com/dads/dads.nsf/vwContent/Homepage http://www.fritolay.com/snacks/product-page/cracker-jack https://www.oldtimecandy.com/walk-the-candy-aisle/baby-ruth/ http://www.oikosyogurt.com/ http://www.dickinsonsfamily.com/products/fruit-and-creme-curds/lemon-curd
All-American Corn Dog
Jalapeno-Jack Ranch Sliders
Brown Sugar Peppered Bacon Fries
INGREDIENTS:
INGREDIENTS:
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup all purpose flour 2/3-cup cornmeal 3 tablespoons sugar 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ -teaspoon dry mustard ½ teaspoon salt 2 Tablespoons shortening, melted 1 egg 1 ¼ cup evaporated milk 8-10 all beef hot dogs ¼ cup cornstarch 8-10 chopsticks 1-48 ounce canola oil INSTRUCTIONS:
Place ¼ cup cornstarch in pie plate and set aside. Pat dry hot dogs with paper towel. Insert one chopstick into one end of hot dog. Roll hot dog in cornstarch to completely cover dog. Dust off excess cornstarch. Set aside. Meanwhile, in medium saucepan heat canola oil over medium high heat until temperature reaches 360 degrees. Line a baking sheet with paper towel and wire cooling rack, set aside until dogs are fried. In large mixing bowl add flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, dry mustard and salt. Stir to combine. In separate bowl combine milk, egg and shortening; add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients stirring until batter is medium consistency. If too batter is too thick hot dogs will brown too fast and will not bake coating, if too thin, batter will not stay on the dog while deep fat frying. Dip dogs into batter, then fry in saucepan turning dog to evenly brown, being careful not to burn your self or the end of the hot dog. Remove and place on baking rack to drain. Serve immediately with spicy mustard or topping of choice. Yield: 8-10 corn dogs
1-pound ground sirloin 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Jalapeno Ranch Dressing*tested Litehouse ½ teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon salt and pepper 4 slices Pepper Jack Cheese 4 slices tomato 4 pieces green leaf lettuce 4 slices red onions 4 slider buns* tested Pepperidge Farms Mustard, Ketchup, Mayo as desired Garnish: sweet pickle chips, cherry tomatoes and decorative flag INSTRUCTIONS:
In medium bowl, combine sirloin, sauce, and spices. Form into patties ,coat with mustard and grill medium high heat 350-400 degrees 5-6 minutes or until well done. Serve on buns with lettuce, burger, cheese, tomato, & onion. Garnish with pickles, cherry tomatoes on a skewer or decorative flag. Yield: 4 burgers
Mini Lemon Cherry Pies INGREDIENTS:
2 cups Greek yogurt ¼ cup lemon curd-tested Dickinson’s Lemon Curd 4 Mini Graham Cracker Pie Crusts-tested Keebler 1-20 ounce Cherry Pie Filling-tested Comstock INSTRUCTIONS:
In medium mixing bowl combine lemon curd and yogurt blend until smooth. Fill 4 mini crusts with filling and add cherry pie filling to each mini pie. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve with whipped cream if desired. Keep refrigerated.
1-(26-oz) bag frozen shoestring French fries* tested Ore Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries 1-(12-oz) package thick sliced bacon 1-cup packed dark brown sugar 1-teaspoon cracked black pepper 1-teaspoon coarse sea salt INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 450. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a small baking rack inside baking pan. Spray foil and baking rack with nonstick cooking spray. Place bacon slices on baking rack, sprinkle with cracked pepper. Bake 3 minutes turn over slices and bake 3 additional minutes. Sprinkle dark brown sugar over one side of the bacon slices, continue baking until bacon is crisp. Remove from oven and cool. On separate foil lined baking sheet spray with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange frozen fries in a single layer on prepared baking sheet bake 20-25 minutes until crispy brown. Remove from oven, sprinkle with salt and extra brown sugar granules, toss to coat. Serve warm with bacon in strips or crumble bacon tossed with fries. Yield: 10-12 servings Liz Bushong is an expert in the three-dimensional art of entertaining. She transforms simple dining occasions into beautiful and memorable moments by adding a touch of her own “sassy” style. For the past several years Liz been entrusted to decorate the White House for several Holidays. She is a featured monthly guest chef/designer on Daytime Tri-cities, Daytime Blue Ridge and other television shows. Liz is the author of the Just Desserts and Sweets & Savories cookbook as well as a contributing writer for VIPSEEN and Bella Magazine. See Recipes & Ideas: lizbushong.com and social media.
Yield: 4 mini pies www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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I ’m your REALTOR. S
A MESSAGE FROM
BRIAN HULLETTE
elling or buying a home is a major decision in your life. Finding a professional you can trust is key to making this most personal and exciting experience of your life run smoothly. My goal is to make the home selling or buying process as stressfree for you as possible. Working with buyers and sellers is not only my life, but my passion. I love the challenges that come with working with people, marketing properties, negotiating contracts, and bringing buyers and sellers together. Every seller wants the highest price for their home in the shortest amount of time. The key to making this happen is marketing. Marketing your property for sale is more than just listing it on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and waiting for the phone to ring. While that would be nice, it is usually not reality. In order to get the highest price for your home in the least amount of time you need maximum exposure. Marketing your home in the best way possible generates maximum exposure, which brings the largest number of qualified buyers, which in turn brings the most offers so you can choose which one puts the most money in your pocket. Your home is marketed not only by the internet and the MLS, but also via word of mouth, phone, social media such as Facebook and LinkedIn, Instagram, VIPSEEN, posters, Homes Magazine, discussion at weekly sales meetings, and open houses to other
real estate agents (broker open houses) and buyers (public open houses). One of the most important aspects of marketing your home is feedback and communication. Behind the scenes I will continually be calling agents to request feedback and communicate this back to you so that you know exactly what buyers think about your home. You can ask any lender or title company about me as well, they love me because I get back to their needs within a few minutes. My strong work ethic, professionalism, integrity, responsiveness and enthusiasm save you time, money and headaches. I have a proven history of obtaining results, which guarantees an enjoyable experience from start to close. I hope that through it all you feel comfortable working with me and that I am able to make your life and this step a little easier for you. I hope you will allow me the opportunity to work with you and help make your dreams come true. I’m the Real Estate Agent for You! Not only do I buy and sell homes, I also invest in real estate and flip several houses a year. I know and understand the process and can help guide you through it seemlessly.
Brian Hullette cell 423.817.7500
| office 423.343.4307 | email brian@conservushomes.com www.propertysearchtricities.com
24 Acres 6 Stalls Barn
1270 Lloyds Chapel Road, Mt. Carmel, TN 4 bed/3 bath Reduced $350,000
1012 Wellington Blvd, Kingsport, TN 4 bed/2.5 bath $359,000
254 Old Island Trail, Kingsport, TN 3 bed/ 3 bath $334,900
WHY LIST WITH ME?
Let me take you HOME. My advantage is innovative marketing. By utilizing the most cutting edge technology and resources, I can quickly put your listing in front of thousands of potential buyers. My nexus includes the most popular real estate websites and search engines as well as targeted social media campaigns. Ninety-two percent of all homebuyers find their property online. SERVICES PROVIDED Professional High Resolution Photography Virtual Tours Personalized Weekly Reports Aerial Drone Videos
WHY BUY WITH ME?
NEIGHBORHOOD EXPERTISE Community amenities, utilities, zoning and schools are just a few things to consider when deciding which part of town you want to live in. Sometimes figuring out and processing all this information can be overwhelming. Having a knowledgeable agent can ease the process by giving you the information you need and helping you decide which area of town is right for you. CONTRACT KNOWLEDGE There’s a great deal of paperwork involved in the home buying process. Some of it can be a bit confusing, and the mass amounts of it alone can seem daunting. An experienced agent who has dealt with the legal and financial aspects of contracts numerous times can be a real asset. They can explain the documents to you and keep you from blindly signing some contracts that you may not truly understand.
Promise of Periodic Feedback Home Warranty Targeted Marketing MY NETWORK VIPSEEN 40,000-70,000 monthly readers Facebook Followers 4,000 LinkedIn Followers 2,000 Instagram Followers 1,000 *Guaranteed to reach 20,000+ targeted audience on Social Media.
MORTGAGE/LOAN KNOWLEDGE There are many different financing options when buying a home. A knowledgeable agent will be able to sit down with you and help you decide which financing options are right for you.
INSPECTION AND REPAIR KNOWLEDGE Before buying a home, you want to make sure it is properly inspected and that all necessary repairs are made. The right agent will be able to assist you in finding qualified professionals to inspect a property before purchase.
NEGOTIATION Much of buying a home is about price. A quality agent understands just how important staying in your price range is. Their negotiation experience can be crucial to you staying in your price range. They will work on your behalf to not only get your desired price, but also the best possible terms, repairs and possession date.
YOUR LISTING HERE 128 Barefoot Landing, Blountville, TN 4 bed/ 2 bath/ 2 half baths $329,900
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT CIVIC AUDITORIUM
JOE PILKENTON – WOOD CARVER / SCULPTOR
BYRON KINDIG AND HELEN WHITTAKER LEARNING BLENDER 3-D ANIMATION
WESLEY COMBS – LEARN TO SOLDER
KENNY CORNETT DEMONSTRATING A 3-D PRINTER
MILLIGAN COLLEGE – BRADLEY HAMMONDS AND DERICK MINOR
JOHN PLUTCHAK – DROP SPINDLE SPINNER WITH MELISSA HIGHT
Spring Fever
MAKER Round-up PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On Saturday, April 1st the Spring Fever Maker Round-up up was held at the Innovation Forge in Kingsport. Although I didn’t know exactly what to expect when I went to this Maker Round-up, as soon as I stepped in the door my inner child wanted to see, touch, and experience everything. From Model trains to Homebrew this round-up had it all. Children of all ages were lined up waiting to learn new ways to create and explore. The Kingsport Public Library was also set up representing their new makers space. This was a truly amazing event for all who attended. The next event will be the Kingsport Mini Maker Faire July 22 at the Kingsport Civic Auditorium.
JIM GARBE – REPRESENTATIVE OF KINGSPORT MAKERS INITIATIVE
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JAIME MAGINNIS – STATE OF FRANKLIN HOMEBREWERS
BARBARA BELL – MEDITATIVE DRAWING
KYNDRA JONES – KINGSPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY
RUSS AYSCUE – KINGSPORT TRAIN CLUB
WWW.SOUTHERNDWELLINGS.COM
The only address you’ll need.
2420 E. CENTER STREET | KINGSPORT, TN | 423.343.4118 www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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SEEN IN
ABINGDON SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER
JOHN RAINERO, BOARD CHAIR
ERIN MAJCHRZAK AND SARAH HAMPTON
TAMMY MAY AND MELISSA ANZELC
Sullins Academy 50th Anniversary Celebration PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
Sullins Academy celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala on Friday, April 7th at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Roy Vermillion, Head of School, recognized the past and current board members, the past and current faculty, the 50th Anniversary Steering Committee, and the 50th Anniversary Event Volunteers. Then, the 50th Anniversary Video was premiered to the enjoyment of the audience. Entertainment was provided by Attraction Band. A silent auction was held during cocktail hour, and a live auction hosted by Ron Ramsey was held after dinner. All proceeds from the auctions went to benefit Sullins Academy.
CAROLINE BRUCE AND JOE GEMMELL
MITCHELL WEAVER AND AMBER RUSSELL
SULLINS ACADEMY FACULTY
APRIL AND DAVID CROCKETT
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ERIC AND AMY TODD
REVEREND JOE DUNAGAN
SONYA RATLIFF, CRYSTAL KINDER, CAROL SHUMAKER, LINDI SCHARFSTEIN, ANDD MARTHA MCGLOTHLIN
TIM AND JOANNE STURGILL
THE BIDROS
ROY VERMILLION, HEAD OF SCHOOL
JODI RAMEY AND BECKY PRICE
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT SYNC SPACE
Tuesday’s Together
Tri-Cities Tennessee PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
Tuesday’s Together Tri-Cities Tennessee held their February meeting at the newly opened Sync Space in Downtown Kingsport. Coeli Ayres and Heath Guinn from Cumberland Marketing presented on email and content marketing.
COELI AYRES AND HEATH GUINN
CHELSIE GREGORY AND LEAH BRANT
“Our mission is to educate and empower creative entrepreneurs in the spirit of community and competition,” said Ashley Cox, a Tuesday’s Together Tri-Cities Tennessee group leader. The group holds monthly meetings at different venues around the Tri-Cities. It offers local entrepreneurs networking and learning opportunities.
BEN KLOOSTERMAN, JOHN KLOOSTERMAN, AND LINDSEY YOUNT
ASHLEY COX, AMANDA ELKINS, AND KATY SERGENT – TUESDAY’S TOGETHER GROUP LEADERS
MICHELLE WOLFE AND ASHLEY COX
TRAVIS ROTHER, BEN KLOOSTERMAN, ARNAB CHAKRABORTY, AND CHACE VINESKI
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT EASTMAN EMPLOYEE CENTER
WOW! Women of Worth Event PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Eastman hosted the monthly meeting of WOW, “Women Owned Wednesdays” (Women of Worth Tri-Cities Tennessee) on April 26th at the Toy F. Reid Employee Center. KOSBE (The Kingsport Office of Small Business Development & Entrepreneurship) created WOW for women to get together regularly, to connect with mentors and mentees, share resources and best practices, continue to learn, be creative, and have fun!
ADITI BHAVE, AUNDREA WILCOX, JANE HILLHOUSE, ETTA CLARK, AND CEEGEE MCCORD
The group meets once a month, on a Wednesday, with the particular date and time decided by the event host. One of the unique features of WOW is the opportunity for women business owners to host the event at their place, this helps the host to showcase their business and other women business owners to understand the different businesses in the region. This is a great networking opportunity and the case study approach allows us to discuss the issues that pertain to women business owners and female entrepreneurs. For more information, visit the website: www.kosbe.org/wow or the WOW Women of Worth Tri-Cities Tennessee Facebook page. PAM CORRIGAN AND ANGIE HYCHE
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SHIRLEY MUELLER
SEEN IN
SEEN IN
BRISTOL
JOHNSON CITY
YWCA
MUNSEY MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
TERESA BOGGS
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS #6695 BRISTOL TN COUNCIL
DESTINY HALL AND SAVANNAH STOUT
YWCA Easter Eggstravaganza PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
The Easter Bunny was a hit again this year at the 14th annual YWCA Easter Eggstravaganza! This event featured a delicious Pancake breakfast prepared by the Knights of Columbus #6695 Council out of Bristol TN. Held on the same morning as the Bristol Half & Half Marathon, runners could hop right on over to the YWCA and purchase a custom Easter basket or splurge on a yummy item from the bake sale. Kids of all ages were able to get their picture taken with the Easter Bunny (Ole’ Peter Cottontail himself), get a fun face painting, make a T-shirt, and even win something in the raffle. The fun never stopped at this EGGstrordinary event. Next year, make plans to attend and bring some friends. I promise you the kids will have a blast and you will too!
MOUNTAIN REGION SPEECH AND HEARING
Annual Autism Educational Conference PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The 6th Annual Autism Educational Conference was held on Saturday, April 1st and was presented by the Autism Society of East Tennessee. The Autism Society was able to partner with experts across the state from organizations including ARC of Tennessee, STEP, Special Needs Law Center, and Tennessee Respite. The keynote speaker was Pepper Basham, who spoke about social communication and its effect on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The other nine presenters spoke on a variety of topics ranging from a presentation on Neurofeedback by Dr. Noel Baker to the benefits of a service dog by Diane Wertz. During lunch, the guests were able to visit with the different vendors. Vendors included Mountain Region Speech and Hearing, Autism Cube, Jeremiah School and Help Belts. “We couldn’t do this without the volunteers,” says Melissa Keeler, a board member for the Autism Society. “Our board members are all volunteers, and over 90 girls from the Alpha Xi Delta sorority at ETSU have signed up to volunteer with us.” The Autism Society of East Tennessee is a program dedicated to building an empowered community for those affected by autism and serves 36 counties in Tennessee.
PATTY BAILEY, NANCY HALL, DEE DEE MULLINS, AND CHERYL SQUIBB
AYDEN CANTER
AUTISM SOCIETY OF EAST TENNESSEE BOARD MEMBERS
AMY LEROY – ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF CHILD CARE WITH TECHGYRLS
PEPPER BASHAM, KEYNOTE SPEAKER
ALPHA XI DELTA VOLUNTEERS
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY MAPLE LANE FARM
GREG AND SHIRLEY MUELLER
AMY LYNN, DEBBIE ENGLAND, AND LINDA BOWMAN
LARRY, RUSSELL, AND DEBBIE ENGLAND
JDRF Cinco de Mayo PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
East Tennessee JDRF Board President, Larry England, and his family hosted their 10th annual “Night of Hope” on April 30th at Maple Lane Farm in Johnson City. The event had a Cinco de Mayo theme, with frozen margaritas, Mexican beer and cuisine available. There was also a silent auction, a live auction and a variety of entertainment. (The photo booth was very popular!) Each year, the event grows in popularity and the proceeds will benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. This year, the event raised over $17,000. Funding this research brings the possibility of a time when type 1 diabetes (T1D) no longer exists. For more information on donating, please visit Larry England’s Facebook page or www.jdrf.org.
TAMMY AND ERIC MARTIN, DUSTY AND DANNY BLACKBURN AND COOPER WOODARD
MATT GREENE AND JESSICA OWENS
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JESSICA BILLOW AND LISA HURD
DAVID REED AND JAYNE GALLOWAY
KELLEN BRIDGES, CHRISTINE CLONINGER, RUTH PATRICK, AND CATHY GILLENWATER (JDRF EAST TENNESSEE CHAPTER)
JERRY MONTGOMERY AND DEBORAH OLER
JEFF DARGAN, MICHAEL JACOBS, AND DAVID MEREDITH
SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
The Power of Health EXPO
& Power of Play 5k PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
A healthier, fuller, better life is in your reach. If you were at the Bristol Regional Medical Center on the morning of April 29th, I am sure you noticed the early birds out and warming up for the Power of Play 5k. There were runners as young as 2 years old on up to 75 years old. The Power of Play 5k started and ended in the parking lot of BRMC followed by the Power of Health EXPO near the main auditorium of the campus. At the EXPO, there were free heart and vascular screenings, health and wellness vendors, and free Giveaways. Promoted by “We Run Events”, all the proceeds from the day benefitted physical education and physical activity in the Bristol Tennessee City and Bristol Virginia Public Schools. The day was a partnership of Bristol Regional Medical Center, the Wellmont CVA Heart Institiute, Bristol Tennessee City Schools, and Bristol Virginia City Schools.
HUNTER CONNALLY, MEGAN BELCHER, AND KAYLA CONNALLY
CINDY PIPPIN AND BUFFIE JONES
ALISON QUICKEL, DAVID HUFF, AND MARTIN WINTERS
MIRANDA HARRIS – DANCE 2 FIT
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY DAWN OF HOPE
Johnson City Chamber of Commerce After Hours at
Dawn of Hope PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Dawn of Hope located on Oakland Avenue in Johnson City took this opportunity to showcase what they offer to the clients they serve in the community and to talk about the two major annual fundraisers that they do each year.
JEFF DERBY, LISA PAWLEY, LINDSEY FAIR, AND BRACKTON SMITH OF THE DAWN OF HOPE WERE HOSTS FOR THE EVENING.
Guests were given 30th anniversary Golf Classic poker chips in either red or black, some of those were luckier than the others. Those receiving a red chip could trade it in for an advantage during the golf classic. The 2017 Dawn of Hope Golf Classic was be held on May 22, 2017. It’s presented by Cantech Industries and will be held at the Johnson City Country Club. It is one of the longest running charity events in the area, and the funds raised go toward paying for the many programs offered to individuals with learning and mental disabilities that will enhance their quality of life and work toward giving them independence. 78
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GARY MABREY (JC CHAMBER) AND LEE CHASE (EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DAWN OF HOPE)
ADRIA PIERCE (NEW YORK LIFE) AND DIANNA CANTLER (DOWNTOWN JC)
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BRISTOL VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL
JIM LEASE (PAWPAW) AND HAROLD WADE, BILL GATTON SHUTTLE DRIVERS/VOLUNTEERS
RACE DIRECTOR NATALIE WHITLOCK AND MELINDA MILLER
KAYLA SHELBY - VOLUNTEER
Bristol Half & Half Marathon Benefitting American Cancer Society PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
ANGELA HANLEY AND LISA REDWINE-COMBS
STEPHANIE ROLLER AND REBECCA WAITES
GERRY DUFFY, KEN DENT, TERESA DUFFY, JENNIFER SULLIVAN, AND DAVID SULLIVAN
WARM UP ON THE TRACK
GENE CHUMLEY AND HIS FUR-BABY “AXLE”
Over 500 Runners and walkers from 9 states met bright and early on the morning of April 8th to show their support for the American Cancer Society. It was a perfect spring morning to run. This was the 5th year of the Bristol Half and Half marathon and 5k. The race starts at Virginia High and finishes in the historic Stone Castle at Tennessee High. The race crosses from Virginia into Tennessee hence the tag line “run 2 states for one great cause”. Bristol Half is organized by presenting sponsor Electro-Mechanical Corporation in Bristol, VA. This year’s event raised $60,000 which will be donated to American Cancer Society. What a great race for a great cause! Thanks to all who participated.
PARTICIPANTS AND SUPPORTERS BANNER SIGN – DEREK SENNES
REGISTRATION
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BRISTOL STUDIO BREW
Bristol TN/VA Relay for Life
Event Leadership Team Meeting & Team Captain University PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Bristol TN/VA Relay for Life committee hosted their monthly meeting and Team Captain University session on April 17th at Studio Brew in Bristol. This year ’s Relay for Life will be held on Friday, June 2nd at Cumberland Square Park from 5pm until midnight. The event will feature a medal presentation for cancer survivors, a caregiver recognition ceremony, a luminaria ceremony at sunset, music by the band Ro Sham Bo, and a special performance by the Southern Fire Cloggers. Ricky Matthews of WCYB will be serving as the event’s emcee. The Bristol TN/VA Relay for Life is a family-friendly event, with inflatables and face painting available for children.
RES FURTH AND ANNA KENNAY
EVENT LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE MEMBERS
YOGA JOE AND JENNIFER DAGGS
JEREMY AND SARAH FAULK (CHAIR OF COMMITTEE)
Teams that are interested in fundraising on site are welcome to set up a booth during the event. Fundraising efforts may also be conducted over the course of the year in support of the American Cancer Society. It is not too late to register a team, and you can do so at http:// www.relayforlife.org/bristoltn
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KINGSPORT KINGSPORT CHAMBER
Kingsport Chamber Centennial
Gift to the Community PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
The Kingsport Chamber held an unveiling ceremony for a oneof-a-kind sculpture that it has gifted to the community in honor of Kingsport’s centennial. Placed on the campus of the Kingsport Chamber and Kingsport City Schools at 400 Clinchfield Street, the sculpture features the Chamber ’s exclusive Kingsport logo. The logo, created by Tara Burns of Branded, consists of a stacked Kingsport design in blue and features the Tennessee tri-star. Originally designed by Burns for use on merchandise in the Kingsport Chamber gift shop, the popular design was a perfect fit when the sculpture was first envisioned. The sculpture is the creation of John Robinson of Appalachian Ironworks. The steel sculpture weighs approximately 3,000 pounds, was made entirely in Kingsport and was donated by Appalachian Ironworks. The sculpture is valued at approximately $10,000.00. The sculpture is intended to encourage the community and visitors to utilize it as a photo opportunity. The Kingsport Chamber asks that you share your photos on social media with the tag #KingsportChamber and #VisitKingsport. “We’re here today to celebrate 100 years of Kingsport and what more fitting way than the unveiling of this sculpture. We encourage everyone to bring their families down and take pictures. Share them on social media. We want this representation of Kingsport to be seen throughout the world,” said Steve LaHair, Kingsport Chamber chair. 80
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KINGSPORT CHAMBER WITH THE KINGSPORT SIGN
STEPHEN LAHAIR – CHAIR, KINGSPORT CHAMBER BOARD & OWNER, CHEF’S PIZZERIA
TARA BURNS – OWNER, BRANDED (LOGO DESIGNER)
Sound Advice for the Teenagers of Today... ü Bad eyebrows can ruin your life. I know it’s kind of trendy right now, but don’t have your eyebrows tattooed on in a dark color or wide swath. It’s all fun and games today, but when you’re 27 and you look like Ernie from Sesame Street; I promise you’ll regret it. ü Read the book. The Cliff’s notes will not make sense and you WILL fail the test. Besides, Cliffs Notes are the first step in the lazy person’s ultimate downfall. First you buy Cliffs Notes, and next thing you know, you’re in jail for cheating on your taxes. ü There are some self-absorbed jack wagons in the world who will make your life miserable if you let them. When, you encounter them, run away as quickly as you can, because they will suck you into their vortex of drama and you will be unable to escape. ü Be kind. Use good manners. Show respect. There are already enough hateful, rude, disrespectful jerks in the world.
Love, Beth
ü Your mother is right 99% of the time. She can spot a fake friend/ boyfriend/ girlfriend from a mile away. She can see you heading toward one of life’s pitfalls long before you do and she will risk her own life to save you from it. Your mom knows everything about you and she still loves you unconditionally. This is why it’s never a good idea to lie to your mother. She loves you, but she will bust you faster than the FBI. ü Don’t post your every emotion on social media. Your Facebook and Instagram accounts will carry more weight than your resume with future employers. So, make sure you’re not giving the impression that you are a melodramatic, emotional nutcase or a Bipole from Bipolarville. ü Just because something is in style doesn’t mean you should wear it. For example, people are wearing clothes now that do not match in any way. One day, in the not so distant future, pictures of you wearing a plaid top and leggings with unicorns on them will be an embarrassment. Classy never goes out of style. ü The most popular teenagers never become the most popular adults, so don’t worry about popularity in high school; however, when you turn 25 and still have no friends, feel free to start worrying. ü Never be afraid to fail. Failure is okay…. unless it involves a tattoo or a parachute. ü Work hard and never stop learning, because nobody likes a lazy idiot. ü Never worry about what other people think unless they are providing the roof over your head or writing your paycheck. ü It’s okay to be semi-socially awkward, but never venture into full-on social awkwardness. You can never recover from complete social awkwardness, so instead of flying your freak flag high; it’s best to fly your freak flag at half-mast. ü The most common element in the world is oxygen. The second most common is stupidity. Breathe in one and swear off the other. There’s enough stupidity in the world already, please don’t contribute to the stupidity epidemic our country is already currently experiencing. ü Don’t compare yourself to other people; their lives are more screwed up than you think. 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
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JOHNSON CITY DOWNTOWN
BLUEGRASS AND MARIACHI FUSION BAND FROM ETSU
PUERTO RICO - DR. HUMBERTO COLLAZO AND CARELIX DIAZ-RIVERA
EL SALVADOR – ALEX MAUGER
8th Annual Corazon
Latino Festival PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
THE ECONUTS RAINFOREST ALLIANCE – ALEXANDRO ESCOBAR-PENA, LOGAN SHERRE, AND WIL PARNELL
FACE PAINTING
As the name indicates, the Latino festival this year was full of spirit, valor, love, and kindness. People from all walks of life gathered to celebrate and experience the vibrant Latino culture. There were plenty of family activities to participate in, delicious food, free dancing lessons, live music, and the running of the bulls! Nestled in the heart of beautiful Johnson City, you could take a trip and experience different regions across Latin America without ever leaving Main Street. The ETSU’s language and Culture Resource Center hosted this years festival.
RUNNING OF THE BULLS WITH THE LITTLE CITY ROLLER GIRLS
BSDH DENTAL HYGIENE – TAYLOR SANDERS, BRENDA OCHOA, AND BRENNAN FRAZIER, ETSU
TAYLOR MALONE AND HIS POODLE NAMED ORE
VIVA MEXICO
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BRISTOL THE VIRGINIAN GOLF CLUB
MICHELLE GARBER OF “SHELLZ”
STEVE SMITH SERVING WINE TO CHRISTY MULLEN
JOYCE ROLSTON, JENNIFER GUEST, AND TINA KARST
Wine, Women & Shoes PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Wellmont Foundation hosted Wine, Women & Shoes at The Virginian Golf Club on April 29th. Proceeds from the event will support breast cancer screening programs. Women enjoyed an afternoon of shopping, sipping, and fashion. Wine tasting and heavy Hors d’ oeuvres were available during the afternoon. A festive marketplace was set up with vendors offering an assortment of clothing and accessories. ALICE GREEN AND SHANNON GAY
ANGELA MOORE, KIM BLOCK, AND KIM ADLER
There were also opportunities to bid on a variety of auction items. “Best in Shoe” awards were presented for the categories of stilettos, wedges, booties, and flats. The fashion show was a heartwarming part of the afternoon as breast cancer survivors modeled the latest fashions. The key note speaker was Donna Ferguson, a two-time breast cancer survivor and cancer institute patient. Donna brought a message of hope and strength. The “Shoe Guys” were a group of volunteers that provided assistance during the event. Steve Smith raised the most donations and was crowned “King of Sole”.
SONYA RATLIFF AND MARTHA MCGLOTHLIN
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ASHLEY HARRIS AND DAWN RUSSELL
MARY JANE MILLER AND CANDY SNODGRASS
MARTHA MCGLOTHLIN WITH HER MOTHER, CAROL SHUMAKER
SHIRLEY CARRIER, BRENDA WOOD, AND LINDA OSBORNE
LINDSEY FAIR, HEATHER TRANBARGER, MARGARET SCHAEFER, AND LYNDA STATON
DONNA FERGUSON, KEYNOTE SPEAKER
CLAY ROLSTON IS REALLY A SHOE GUY!
SUZANNE STATON AND HEATHER HILL
SHARON SMITH DOES SOME SHOPPING! BECKY MOORE AND LINDI SCHARFSTEIN
KRISTA WHARTON OF “MONKEES”
FAY BEMBRY AND ANGIE RASNIKE
JULIE NEWMAN, EMCEE
CHRISTY MULLEN AND MELISSA HAUN
LINDA KING, PAM HOLY, AND MELANIE FAGAN
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KINGSPORT SHABBY ALLIES BOUTIQUE AND CATERING/EVENT VENUE
An afternoon with HK Derryberry & Jim Bradford PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
Life is full of small miracles! All you need to do is look for them. HK Derryberry is one of those miracles. Born three months premature due to an automobile accident that took his mother’s life, he was born blind, and with cerebral palsy. However, at an early age he found the persistence and drive to overcome his disabilities. Then, in 1999 one of life’s small miracles found him. His life was forever changed when Jim Bradford, a local businessman in Brentwood, TN reached out and friended HK in the most impactful way. Since that time, they have become the best of friends and HK considers Jim to be his life coach, best friend, and mentor. HK often states that “Mr. Bradford let me borrow his eyes and he never charges any rent for them.” He is now a motivational speaker with a very charming sense of humor. Mr. Bradford also considers HK to be one of those small miracles in his life. In his book he says, “Always be looking for an HK. You can change two lives… yours and theirs.” One very notable accomplishment of HK’s was when he graduated from high school with a fully credited state of TN diploma. Other accomplishments are horseback riding, snow skiing, boating, piloting a plane with assistance and simply being awesome. He will proudly tell you that “the only disability any of us have in life is a negative attitude.” Thank you to all the sponsors that made this afternoon possible. It was definitely an afternoon to remember. Event presented by BlueCare Tennessee and hosted by the Kingsport Chamber and Leadership Kingsport. To learn more about HK Derryberry go to www.hkderryberry.com To learn more about Leadership Kingsport please contact vbennett@kingsportchamber.org
MILES BURDINE, KINGSPORT CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO – WELCOME
JIM BRADFORD AND HK DERRYBERRY – MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS AND LIFELONG FRIENDS
HK DERRYBERRY AND MAKENZY BENNETT
LK CLASS OF 2017, DR. ELAINE BOONE – ETSU, AND BECCA SUTPHEN – UNITED WAY
HK DERRYBERRY AND JIM BRADFORD AND KINGSPORT FRIENDS
AMBER CAMBRON – CEO BLUECARE, AND STEPHANI RYAN – DIRECTOR LTSS PROGRAM BLUECARE
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KINGSPORT PERFORMANCE MEDICINE
Performance Medicine
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
Performance Medicine is officially open for business! The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on April 17th and owners Tom and Jenny Rogers did it in an exciting and big way. The Foodie Fiction truck was on hand for refreshments with their totally organic food delights. Music was provided by the Dobyns-Bennett Choral Department’s singing ensembles DB Accapella groups, Duly Noted and Armonia. Performance Medicine is a Total Health medical practice based on hormone balance, weight management and healthy aging. They are now located at 1325 East Center Street in Kingsport.
LYNN SHIPLEY AND BRENT MULLINS – HOME TRUST BANK
BEN ROGERS, JENNY ROGERS, AND KELLI ROGERS TRENT
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DR. TOM ROGERS WITH DARRELL DUNCAN – KINGSPORT CITY ALDERMAN
COMMUNITYPROFILE
D-B SINGS at Carnegie Hall STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA COFFEY
he Varsity Choir of Dobyns-Bennett High School, under the direction of Dr. Andre’ Thomas, was invited to perform at the National Honor Youth Festival at Carnegie T Hall in New York City. The choir was notified about being selected after a performance
video was submitted. The students of the choir began to work extra jobs to raise the money to travel to New York City. Two buses left Kingsport and traveled to NYC during the night of March 30th. When they arrived in the city the next morning, the fun and adventures began (who needs to sleep?). Rehearsals were scheduled, but during the free time the students had the opportunity to visit the Statue of Liberty, see a Broadway show, visit the 9-11 memorial, and see the sights of NYC. On Sunday, April 2nd, the students joined with eight other choirs from across the country to perform in concert at the prestigious Carnegie Hall. A D-B student, Bryant Denmark, was selected to sing a solo during the performance. The Dobyns-Bennett choir is directed by Jenny Rogers and the assistant director, Patty Denmark.
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KINGSPORT BAYS MOUNTAIN PARK
TN/VA Scholar Celebration Picnic PHOTOGRAPHY BY NORA DAVIS | STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On Thursday, April 27th, the Kingsport Chamber celebrated the 23rd Graduating class of the TN/VA Scholar Program. TN/VA Scholars is a regional rewards and recognition program of the Kingsport Chamber for high school students. Sponsored by area business and industr y, this program encourages students to complete high school courses in math, science, social studies, language arts/foreign language and computer literacy. Students must also meet community ser vice, attendance and grade requirements throughout the four years of high school to participate. “The TN/VA Scholars Program’s purpose is to better prepare students for college, work, technical school and community ser vice; competition is global and we want our students to be prepared to compete. The Scholars’ program helps prepare students for the workforce,” explains Nicole Austin, Kingsport Chamber director of workforce development & government relations. “ We are thrilled to have Ron Ramsey speak to the TN/VA Scholar students. We are excited to have a prestigious leader in our state to address the TN/VA Scholars graduates as they enter the next stage in their lives and education.” The Kingsport Chamber ’s TN/VA Scholars Program will recognize more than 350 graduating seniors from Cherokee, DobynsBennett, Gate City, Rye Cove, Sullivan North, Sullivan South, Twin Springs and Volunteer high schools. The program is celebrating its 23rd year and has experienced exponential growth since initially coming to Northeast Tennessee in 1994 (under the name AIM Scholars) with Eastman’s education initiatives. Since the program’s inception, more than 10,000 students have graduated from the program. These students are entering the workforce better prepared for their futures. The TN/VA Scholars program is sponsored by Eastman and BC Realty. Event sponsors included Appalachian Power, Brock Ser vices, Canteen Vending, Cooper Standard Automotive, Eastman Credit Union, Food City, Jersey Mike’s, Pristine Springs, Wal-Mart Supercenter, and Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market.
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KINGSPORT
KINGSPORT CENTER FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
DigiGirlz Day PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
On Friday, April 7th, DigiGirlz Day was held at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education. Hosted by Eastman, Microsoft, and Northeast State Community College. DigiGirlz Day is an opportunity for girls from local high schools to learn more about technology careers in a fun and interactive way. This is the 7th year in a row that DigiGirlz Day has been held in Kingsport.
DONNA BANK-HOGLEN, MICROSOFT COMMUNITY PROGRAM MANAGER
JAMIE CARDER, EVENT ORGANIZERS
In the welcome for the program, Donna Bank-Hoglen, community program manager for Microsoft, said, “Today is all about why computer science is important and how you can use it in the things you love every day.” The girls were able to attend a variety of sessions led by Information Technology professionals from Eastman - from “Scratch Programming Online” and “Pseudo Code” to “College Conversations” and “Visualizing Your Future.” They were able to gain hands-on experience and see demonstrations like 3-D printing. DigiGirlz, a Microsoft YouthSpark program, was created to inspire girls to pursue the field and show them what a career in technology would be like. Through the efforts of Microsoft and partners organizations, girls are able to participate in DigiGirlz events all over the world.
DIGIGIRLZ!
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KINGSPORT
WARRIOR’S PATH STATE PARK, DARRELL’S DREAM BOUNDLESS PLAYGROUND
Day of Service PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Rain didn’t stop volunteers gathering together for the annual Day of Service at Darrell’s Boundless Playground at Warrior’s Path State Park. The event was held on April 22, 2017 and even though rain crept in and out throughout the day, volunteers continued to scrub the playground equipment, clean the bathrooms, pull weeds and plant flowers, and so much more.
VOLUNTEERS FOR 2017 DAY OF SERVICE
The Boundless Playground at Warrior’s Path was the first in the nation at a state park. Children can play on several sets of equipment, visit the tree house, learn about the park through interactive exhibits, a sand island, and an amphitheater for children to broaden their imaginations.
DAVE STEVENS
GREG LAMB, MELANIE LAMB, MATTHEW KERN, AND ASHLEA RAMEY
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS YOUTH GROUP MEMBERS
NANCY HAAS OF TENNESSEE MASTER GARDENERS
FRIENDS OF WARRIOR’S PATH BOARD CO-CHAIR RICHARD TYNER, PARK MANAGER SARAH LEEDY
The day of service was created several years ago by a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, who wanted a worthy cause for their Day of Service project. The church partnered with the Friends of Warriors to align their annual playground cleanup with the churches national event . On Saturday the Church came out in full force with a large group of volunteers, including the youth group, who worked tirelessly so that other kids could play on a clean, well-manicured play space. Park Manager Ranger Sarah Leedy says that seeing all the volunteers come together to make the park a better place is one reason she loves her job. Leedy says many organizations also volunteer including the Lions Club of Kingsport, the Yuchi tribe, Kiwanis of Kingsport, Tennessee Master Gardeners, and Kingsport Jaycees were just a few. Several other places also donated breakfast, lunch, and plenty of beverages for the volunteers. www.vipseenmag.com | june 2017
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BEST WESTERN
BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
JOHNSON CITY
BRISTOL
CONGRESSMAN MORGAN GRIFFITH (R-VA 9TH DISTRICT)
ROSEMARY AND PAUL HARGRAVE-THOMAS WITH BUFORD STANLEY
FRED HOLLIER AND JAMES COLLINS, RECIPIENTS OF THE FLAG CEREMONY (WWII VETERANS)
Honor Flight Reception PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Honor Flight of Northeast Tennessee is a non-profit organization that takes two groups of aging soldiers from WWII and the Korean War to the war memorials in Washington, D.C. each year. The latest group left for their trip at the end of April, but not before a big sendoff. The soldiers and their families met in Johnson City on April 27, 2017 in the ballroom of the Best Western hotel to meet with others that have been on the trip. The Director of Honor Flight Northeast Tennessee, Edie Lowery, welcomed everyone to the event. The veterans also met with their Guardian for the trip, recieved the thanks they never heard when they arrived back from the war. Buses were loaded the next morning as fellow veterans and citizens lined the walkway to salute those going on the trip. The bus was escorted by police, veteran motorcycle riders, the Disabled American Veterans, and all left by driving under the American flag raised high in the air by Johnson City Fire Department. The Honor Flight returned to Johnson City on Sunday night.
EDIE LOWERY, DIRECTOR
FLAG FOLDING CEREMONY
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LANCE CORPORAL KELLY GREENE AND MASTER SGT. HARVEY TESTER
FRED HOLLIER AND GRANDDAUGHTER MEGHAN
CONGRESSMAN PHIL ROE (R-TN 1ST DISTRICT)
Bristol Chamber of Commerce
Legislative Luncheon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
The Bristol Chamber of Commerce hosted a Legislative Luncheon with Congressman Dr. Phil Roe (R-TN) and Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) on April the 13th. Held at the Bristol Motor Speedway in the Bruton Smith building, it was a perfect setting for lunch with the Congressmen. They both spoke of current events and healthcare reform followed by questions and answers. Everyone in attendance left encouraged and uplifted from this positive interaction and lunch.
BILL SORAH – CITY MANAGER, BRISTOL TN
JANICE JONES – CHAIRMAN, BRISTOL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
JERRY CALDWELL, BMS AND CHAIRMAN ELECT AND ALEXANDER WHITAKER, KING UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT
BETH RHINEHART – PRESIDENT AND CEO, BRISTOL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SAM JONES, TIM ATTEBERY, GREG NEAL, GARY TUCKER, AND DANNY CARTER
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BRISTOL
BRISTOL
HOUSE DRESSING
SOUTH HOLSTON RIVER
LEIGH AND STACIA
JOSIE AND RANDY SHORT
House Dressing First Annual Tail Grand Opening Water Roundup MARTHA MCGLOTHLIN, OWNER OF HOUSE DRESSING
AULIKKI BRANDT
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LARK ADAMS
There is a new consignment store in town. House Dressing has just opened in Bristol, Virginia. They call themselves ‘Upscale,’ but owner Martha McGlothlin is quick to point out that it doesn’t mean that they only carry high-end, luxury brands. The goal of House Dressing is to only provide merchandise that is in excellent shape. This means that you can leave with a treasure for your closet or home, and might even mistake it for brand new. The store carries everything from clothes, to shoes, to original works of art by local artists. They have furniture and housewares, and post some of their best finds on Facebook to make shopping with them even more convenient. McGlothlin has long been a fan of the ‘up-cycling’ movement and had a store in the past that took items and repurposed them to give them new life. “I’ve always loved yard sales, and I wanted a way to let people have a place where they could clean out their houses and attics of the things they are no longer using, and for others to benefit from getting these beautiful things at a much reduced cost from buying new,” says McGlothlin. If she keeps this up, House Dressing just might become our new guilty shopping pleasure! Visit the store Monday-Friday 11-6 at 42 Euclid Avenue, Bristol VA. You can also visit www.housedressing.marthajane.net, email Housedressing@ marthajane.net, or call 276-791-1941.
MELINDA AND BAMBI AKARD
MARTHA, READY FOR HER FIRST CUSTOMERS
JOYCE ANNE ICENHOUR AND JEANETTE HAMLIN
The first annual Tail Water Roundup took place on Saturday, March 26th. It was organized by Tony Marcucci and Jon Hooper from the South Holston River Lodge, and volunteers from all over the Tri-Cities came out to help clean up the Holston River. Hundreds of tires were pulled out of the river as well as several hundred pounds of trash. “Our goal is to raise awareness about how much trash is being dumped into these waters. We hope that will help cut down on the amount of trash,” says Tony Marcucci. Jon Hooper adds, “We’re focused on preservation and conservation. We want to keep nature the way it’s supposed to be.” All volunteers were entered to win a participation raffle, which included great giveaways donated by local businesses. The event was funded by the Fly Fishing Film Tour which was held at Studio Brew the night before. The river cleanup was truly a community effort and would not have been possible without the contributions by area outfitters and the community volunteers.
THE SELF FAMILY
PULLING TIRES OUT OF THE RIVER
WENDY TRAYNOR AND NICOLA ROBERTSON
LUKE AND ROSS ABEL
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KINGSPORT MODEL CITY EVENT CENTER
ADITI BHAVE AND GAIL PRESLAR
TIM DUNNE AND AUNDREA WILCOX
VICTORIA BISHOP, DAWN JONES, AND JOY GARLAND
Drive! 2017
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Drive! 2017s Summit for Driven Women in Business event was held on April 28-29 at the Model City Event Center in Kingsport. Acclaimed speakers provided motivation, direction and ideas for ambitious women in business. All ticket proceeds from Drive! 201 will go to Holston United Methodist Home for Children and SBK Animal Shelter.
PRESENTERS
Speakers for the event included: Aundrea Wilcox, Leslie Michelson, Kathy Heasley, Mandy Barton, Ashley LaRae Sampson, David McClaskey and Dr. Tim Dunne. The event was sponsored by Kingsport Times News, VIPSEEN, KOSBE, GAAM Wealth Advisors, Kingsport Chamber, Branded, and Model City Event Center.
SHIRLEY MUELLER AND JENNIFER CALLOWAY
PAM CORRIGAN, MARY CARRIER, AND SHERRY EDWARDS
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ANGIE DROKE, ANGIE HYCHE, DENA MARIE RICKMAN, AND MAGGIE HUNNICUTT
HOLLEY AND PAMELA FOGLE SETTING UP FOR SPEAKERS
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JOHNSON CITY MILLENNIUM CENTRE
SHOW UP
JUNE 29 & JUNE 30
ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME CO-FOUNDER OF TRAFFIC
NETWORKING AND MEETING NEW FRIENDS
LARRY ENGLAND, CHAIR ELECT – JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER
3rd Annual State of the
City-County-Town Luncheon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On April 27th, the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce hosted the 3rd Annual State of the City, County, Town Luncheon. The Cities of Johnson City, Jonesborough, and Washington County were all represented as the Mayors of each addressed the attendees. Areas of economic development, tourism, and education were just some of the topics discussed. Jonesborough Mayor Kelly Wolfe, along with his friends at the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre caught the spotlight by singing a very heartfelt rendition of “Accentuate The Positive” in traditional barbershop style. Maybe they will buy a tour bus and hit the road soon? This was a great luncheon where local leaders from throughout the community met, mingled, and ate together in a great showing of the unity of these communities. Visit www. johnsoncitytnchamber.com for more information.
GARY MCCALLISTER, MITCH MEREDITH, AND PAT WOLFE
MAYOR KELLY WOLFE, MAYOR DAVID TOMITA, AND MAYOR DAN ELDRIDGE
DAVID CROCKETT, TRI-CITES PRESIDENT, SUNTRUST BANK
JAKE HARRIS, CITIZENS BANK AND BRIAN KENNEDY, FIRST TENNESSEE BANK
TICKETS: (423) 274–8920 24/7 PARAMOUNTBRISTOL.ORG
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JOHNSON CITY THE BLACKTHORN CLUB
Second Harvest Food Bank
24th Annual Golf Classic PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
A chance of rain wasn’t going to stop this tournament! It was a great day of helping to feed the hungry by playing a round of golf, enjoying some amazing pulled BBQ sandwiches and spending time with friends on the greens. Sponsored by Bill Gatton dealerships, this was the 24 th annual tournament fundraiser held by Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee. The food bank is a non-profit organization serving eight counties in Northeast Tennessee with emergency food assistance. Food is distributed through partner agencies who operate food pantries, soup kitchens, and children’s programs as well as through direct service programs operated by the food bank. For more information on Second Harvest and the ways you can help provide food for hungry individuals and families, please visit www.netfoodbank.org
JENNIFER MILLER – SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR, SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF NORTHEAST TN
TEAM CITIGROUP – JAMES DEAN, CHRIS CHANDLEY, ROBERT TESTERMAN, AND RICK VAN HOEVER
FIRST PLACE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM – RANDY HUMPHREYS, DANIEL WRIGHT, CHRIS WHITE AND JAMES WHITE
TEAM BILL GATTON CHEVROLET – ANTHONY VANHOY, ETHAN MAYS, SHERRILL FLICK, AND JACK HARR
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JOHNSON CITY SALON BELLA DONA
Salon Bella Dona Ribbon Cutting and After Hours PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The Johnson City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony and an After Hours for Salon Bella Dona at 4156 Bristol Highway on Thursday, April 13th. Vicki Kotowksi has owned the full service salon for over 12 years, and has remodeled the salon to expand its space and services. In addition to the 6 styling stations, there is also a private facial room, a private pedicure suite, and a room for spray tans that are done by hand. The grand re-opening ceremony was enjoyable for the many attendees. Southern Craft catered the food, and Yee-Haw Brewing was on site to serve craft beer. Guests were entered into a raffle to win great prizes like gel manicures, salon products, and even rounds of golf provided by Johnson City Country Club. There was even a selfie wall for guests to take pictures with different, fun props. Visit belladonabeauty.com for more information, and call (423) 282-0120 to book your appointment today! 94
june 2017 | www.vipseenmag.com
GARY MABREY, JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT, AND VICKIE KOTOWSKI, OWNER OF SALON BELLA DONA
KAITLIN JO FOREMAN AND MONIQUE SHORT-SILVA
BY BEVERLY BOLING, CEO/PRESIDENT OF HORIZON CREDIT UNION
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ount Carmel celebrated Funfest with an official block party until 2014. In 2015 organizers reported there wasn’t enough sponsorship, help, or interest among local merchants to keep the block party alive to celebrate its 30th consecutive year as an official Funfest block party. The event regularly drew in an estimated 10,000 people to Main Street Mount Carmel! I don’t know about you but I missed seeing Mount Carmel shine with their grand Funfest event! Horizon Credit Union opened its Mount Carmel branch in April 2016 with a promise to the Mount Carmel Community. That promise was to bring back the Mount Carmel Block Party! We committed to provide the lion’s share of the sponsorship and planning of the event. We also promised the citizens and merchants of Mount Carmel that Horizon Credit Union will be a good neighbor and that we are very interested in growth and continued improvement of Mount Carmel and the Hawkins County communities. We want to promote Mount Carmel as a great place to buy a home, raise a family or start or relocate a business. We believe in the future of Mount Carmel we are dedicated to help bring a thriving community spirit and to revive interest in Mount Carmel and the surrounding communities. Horizon Credit Union is designated a Community Development Credit Union by the United States Treasury, and is also designated by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) as a Low Income Credit Union. These designations provide specific permissions to make loans to people of low or modest income at much lower rates than predatory lenders. Many other lenders simply refuse to lend
to people who have scores lower than what they find acceptable. Horizon Credit Union offers one on one financial counseling to help people improve their finances. We have loans and programs to help people make a fresh start. Horizon Credit Union Board of Directors, Staff and Members are dedicated to seeing our Mount Carmel Branch succeed by offering competitive rates on savings and loans, as well as a wide variety of services to our Members and potential Members in Mount Carmel. Branch Manager Melissa Roark, Teller Kim Yankee, and Teller Heather Christian are natives of Hawkins County. Rounding out the Mount Carmel Branch team is Sharon Uyeda, a veteran credit union retiree who relocated from California and missed working in a credit union. Sharon just loves the Mount Carmel Branch and the Horizon Credit Union Philosophy of helping people. Horizon Credit Union does not just serve folks with dents and dings in their credit scores, we have awesome rates for both savings and loans for folks looking to invest or borrow. Horizon Credit Union prices loans by credit scores, so if you have great credit you qualify for some of the lowest lending rates in this area. No matter your score, your interest rate will never exceed 18% due to state and federal lending laws. Compare that fact with what “check cashers”, “buy here pay here” and “title lenders” charge and you will see why being a Member of Horizon Credit Union is a great benefit! Why Revive the Mount Carmel Block Party? The answer is so simple…Horizon Credit Union believes in Mount Carmel!