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101 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. • Bristol, VA 24201 • 276.644.1573 • bristoltrainstation.org info@bristoltrainstation.org
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Moon Party on the is back!
3 y r a u r b e F
All dr essed
up!
!!
Friday night!! t of n e ev r! l a i Soc he yea t
2017 e h t r o f Ready r e b m a h C t Kingspor inner! Annual D
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ER CHAMB R DI NNE
Call 392-8800 for tickets! KingsportChamber.org
Febru
ary 3,
2017
Letter from the Publisher
FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares DIRECTOR OF SALES Felicia Conners ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams 423.612.3583 Lark@vipseenmag.com April Barnes 423.646.4626 april@vipseenmag.com Ashleigh Jackson 423.360.4338 ashleigh@vipseenmag.com Jacqueline Joseph 423.367.6785 Jacqueline@vipseenmag.com Becky Ramsey COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch SOCIAL MEDIA Jon Lester CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lark Adams April Barnes Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Ashleigh Jackson Sherri Jessee Heath Owens Becky Ramsey Alison Smith Beth Street
She Says ...
A
fter being away for several months on maternity leave, I am ecstatic to be back to work. For the last month or so, I have been easing my way back into the office but it isn’t as easy as it once was. And that is perfectly okay with me. While I was away, Angelica did a terrific job writing this letter and running the office. Felicia, who also works in the office, assisted Angelica and also kept things flowing as smoothly as possible. For that, and many other things, I am forever grateful to these two ladies. They are truly committed and the best friends ever. Speaking of committed, a good portion of this issue is about commitment! Inside you will find 2016 Real Wedding Stories from people who are from or live right here in the Tri-Cities and Southwest Virginia region. Our advertisers have also come together to showcase some of their special tips and offerings for brides to be! You may also notice that we combined two issues this month but beginning in March we will be back to single month issues to finish out the year. There are a lot of great events coming up in 2017 for those of you who like to stay social! I, for one, am looking forward to reconnecting with our community and all the people who make it so fantastic. Cheers to a great year ahead!
Angela Baker, angela@vipseenmag.com
PHOTOGRAPHY April Barnes Liz Bushong Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Ashleigh Jackson Nathan Mays Becky Ramsey Heath Owens Ellen Wallen DISTRIBUTION Bobby Flowers Martin Kilgore Mark Kilgore Leslie Morgan Barbara Werner WEBMASTER Robert Neilson Wired Web Development 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
The wedding of Andrew and Nora Prince on November 5, 2016 at The Olde Farm in Bristol, VA (See page 11)
PHOTO BY
Clayton Zane Photography www.claytonzane.photography
January/February Contents EVENTS
82 104 FEATURES 8
TYING THE KNOT
11 ON THE COVER
ANDREW & NORA PRINCE
96 FRUGAL OR FINANCIALLY FIT? 108 KINGSPORT CENTENNIAL TIMELINE
DEPARTMENTS 7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
54 DAY TRIPPIN’ WITH LINDA
HAWKSNEST, NORTH CAROLINA
80 VIP BEAUTY
ELEGANT HIGH BUN
98 WIT BIT
IF I WERE PRESIDENT
56 Night of Lights GALA 58 Jonesborough’s Annual Christmas Parade 60 “A Christmas Carol” Opening Night & Gala 61 Historical Society of Washington County Christmas Open House 62 Clara’s Tea Party 63 KOSBE 2016 Awards Ceremony 67 Toast Across America 68 State of Your Kingsport Holiday Breakfast 68 Jacob’s Nature Park Ribbon Cutting 69 Breakfast with Santa 70 Hill & Dale Garden Club Christmas Luncheon 71 Mortgage Bankers Association, Honoring Our Veterans 72 37th Annual Christmas Connection 73 State Theatre Company presents Romeo & Juliet ShakesBEER 75 Veterans Day Ceremony 76 Bowman Jewelers - After Hours 77 9th Annual Christmas Benefit Dinner 78 Winter Wonderland NYE at Johnson City Country Club 78 Holiday Tour & Tea 79 Prohibition for Paws 82 Acoustic Christmas 2016 84 Gangster Gala 86 Mistletoe Gala & Mistletoe Market 87 SUBWAY Speedway in Lights 88 Kingsport Christmas Parade 89 Kingsport Chamber Holiday After Hours 90 Johnson City Tree Lighting 91 Foundation Title and Escrow - Open House 91 ETSU Homecoming 5k 92 George Chmiel Run Across America Press Conference 93 Songfest 2016 97 Honda Kingsport Expansion and Renovation 99 Be a Santa to a Senior 99 Barbells for Boobs 100 Walk for Wellness EXPO 100 Cherry Bounce - Election Night Hootenanny 101 Doggone Christmas 102 Red Shoe Masquerade 103 Australian Dress Down Under 104 Night of Holiday Miracles 106 Honoring Our Heros 110 Kingsport New Year’s Eve Centennial Celebration 112 Centennial Park Groundbreaking www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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04
MARCH 2017
7-11pm @ the social
$20 pre-order $30 at the door
www.ypkingsport.com *$5 discount for members
members and potential members welcome catered hors d’oeuvres and cash bar will be available
Calendar of Events / FEBRUARY 2017 FEBRUARY 3 Kingsport Chamber 70th Annual Dinner 6pm Meadowview Convention Center 1901 Meadowview Parkway Kingsport, TN 423-392-8832 annualdinner@kingsportchamber.org
FEBRUARY 10 Ladies Valentine Day Tea 10am – 11:30am Jonesborough Senior Center 307 East Main Street Jonesborough, TN 423-753-4781 marys@jonesboroughtn.org
Wine & Chocolate Festival 6pm – 9pm The Foundation Event Center 620 State Street Bristol, TN 423-800-5427 www.2017wandcfest.com
FEBRUARY 11 Jonesborough 2nd Annual Chocolate Fest 11am – 4pm Downtown Jonesborough Jonesborough, TN 423-753-1010 cameow@jonesboroughtn.org
H.O.P.E. Fundraiser Spaghetti Lunch 11am – 1pm H.O.P.E. Office 309 Carver Street Kingsport, TN 423-276-6541 stella@hopetricities.com
Bays Mountain Duathlon 8am – 12pm Bay’s Mountain Park 853 Bays Mountain Park Road Kingsport, TN https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Kingsport/ BaysMountainDuathlon
FEBRUARY 4 My Little Valentine Daddy Daughter Dance 6pm – 8pm Memorial Park Community Center 5510 Bert Street Johnson City, TN 423-434-6224 www.myjcparks.org
Open House Party 2pm – 7pm Samadhi Healing Arts Center 423 West Walnut Street Johnson City, TN 423-926-2020 http://www.samadhihealingartscenter.com
FEBRUARY 23 Kingsport Night Owl Circus Arts Grand Opening 4pm – 8pm Flight Athletic Academy Gym Cheer Dance 625 East Market Street Kingsport, TN 423-782-6479 http://FlightAthleticAcademy.com
FEBRUARY 24 Grand Opening & 85th Annual Meeting of Horizon Credit Union 11am (Ribbon Cutting) Horizon Credit Union 1201 North Eastman Road Kingsport, TN 423-229-9463 http://www.myhorizoncu.org/
Cupcakes & Candlelight 8:30pm Exhale Fitness Studio 118 West Springbrook Drive Johnson City, TN 423-979-0060 http://www.exhalefitstudio.com/
FEBRUARY 25 American Advertising Awards: Pure ImADgination 5:30pm The Venue at the King’s Centre 300 East Main Street, STE. 200 Johnson City, TN info@aafnetn.com http://www.aafnetn.com
Red Shoe Gala 5:30pm – 10pm Meadowview Convention Center 1901 Meadowview Parkway Kingsport, TN 423-247-1171 info@casa4kidsinc.org
FEBRUARY @ BARTER THEATRE
FEBRUARY 4 Fine Art – Human Canvas Body Painting 2pm – 8pm Studio Brew 221 Moore Street Bristol, VA www.eventbrite.com
FEBRUARY 18 Maple Syrup Making with Pancake Breakfast 8am – 10:30am Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site 2620 South Roan Street Johnson City, TN tiptonhaynes@embarqmail.com
Music and Lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus and some songs with Stig Anderson, Book by Catherine Johnson
FEBRUARY 7 Lips & Sips 4pm – 7pm Prestige Aesthetics & Penny Woods Skincare 217 E Unaka Avenue Johnson City, TN 423-302-0858 www.prestigeaesthetics.com
FEBRUARY 19 Simple Elegance Bridal Show 1:30pm – 4pm Jonesborough Visitors Center 101 Fox Street Jonesborough, TN 423-930-8215 www.SimpleEleganceBridalShow.com
An Evening with Travis Tritt 7:30pm – 10:30pm The Paramount Center for the Arts 518 State Street Bristol, TN 423-274-8920 www.paramountbristol.org
Mamma Mia!
February 23 - April 8 (Gilliam Stage at Barter Theatre) “ABBA-lutely Fabulous! The ultimate feel-good show!” EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND! ORIGINAL BARTER CAST
Sophie has just one wedding wish: for her father to walk her down the aisle. Now she just has to find out who he is... Join the music, laughter and fun of the irresistibly charming musical celebration of mothers, daughters and fathers, and true loves lost and new ones found. Featuring more than 20 ABBA songs including “Dancing Queen,” “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme (A Man After Midnight),” “Super Trouper” and “Take a Chance on Me.” This show is the feel-good experience that will have you singing and dancing over and over and over again.
Visit www.bartertheatre.com or call 423-628-3991 for show times and to purchase tickets.
VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
14 BED & BREAKFAST: Storybrook Farms 16 Ben & Amelia Barker 18 CATERING: Pratts Catering & Riverside Events 20 Hunter & Bree Bledsoe 22 HONEYMOON MEMORIES: Editorial Wedding 24 FINANCIAL PLANNING: Campbell Financial Group, Inc. 26 Greg & Sarah Lovelace 28 GOWNS: Bristol Bridal Station 3 HAIR & MAKEUP: Prestige Aesthetics 32 Curtis & Johanna Montgomery 36 HOME FURNISHINGS: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery 38 Drew & Madison Roberts 40 Dylan & Holly Shockley 46 Roderick & Leanne Stent 49 Letter’s to the Bride & Groom: Editorial Wedding 42 JEWELRY: Baker’s Jewelry 44 MEDICAL SERVICES: Changes Medical Spa & Laser Center 50 PLASTIC SURGERY: Jim Brantner M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 52 REALTOR: ReMax Checkmate Tri-Cities Full Service Agency
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www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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VIPSEEN
REAL WEDDINGS COVER STORY
www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017 11
VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS | COVER STORY
Andrew & Nora Prince
NOVEMBER 5, 2016 THE OLDE FARM
HOW THEY MET
Nora and Andrew met for the first time at the end of 5th grade at Cedar Creek summer camp. Andrew recalls having lost his glasses early in the week but still being able to see how cute Nora was. They met up again in middle school when they were on the same team in the 8th grade at Vance Middle School. They began flirting and spending time together which continued as they went to Tennessee High and flirted most of freshman year as well. But as their freshman year was nearing its end Andrew still had not made a move to ask Nora out. Nora’s best friend, and maid-of-honor, was tired of watching their games and took matters into her own hands. Posing as Nora on instant messenger, Nickie asked Andrew out on a date to the movies to see Jennifer Lopez’s “Enough.”
THE PROPOSAL
After 14 years of dating, Andrew decided to make it official. After picking out the ring, the location, the date, and of course the pup, Andrew was finally ready. On a hot July Friday night, Nora called Andrew on her way home from work and suggested they go for a walk. This could not have been more amazing since Andrew needed a pretext to get Nora to Shelby Park for the proposal. As they were walking around a bend into the park, Nora spotted a sweet little puppy tied up to a tree and said to Andrew, “See, I want one just like this.” While Nora was petting the unattended puppy Andrew got down on one knee and asked, “Will you make me the happiest man alive by taking my hand in marriage?” At first all Nora could say was “WAIT… WHAT?” over and over again, but when she finally absorbed what had happened she tackled Andrew and Shelby to the ground.
THE DRESS
Both Nora’s mom, Nina, and her future mother-in-law, Gena, made a trip to Nashville, TN to go dress shopping with Nora. It was such a wonderful day of bonding and spending time with family. Nora knew she had the perfect dress when she walked out of the dressing room at The Dress Theory and both mommas immediately starting crying. The beautiful lace-sleeved Hayley Paige gown was Nora’s perfect “princess” dress and paired beautifully with the cathedral length Sara Gabriel veil. On her wedding day Nora wore her dress with pearls her mother had given her for her 18th birthday.
THE BIG DAY
November 5, 2016 was a perfect fall day. The air was crisp and dry, many of the leaves had fallen but those that left were full of fall color, and the grass at the venue was a vivid green. The entire wedding party spent the night before the wedding staying on site at the venue, so they were all able to enjoy the full day of festivities. The wedding was held at The Olde Farm in Bristol, VA. Nora and her bridesmaids were staying down at the Lodge. They spent the morning sipping mimosas and eating doughnuts from Nora’s favorite place, Blackbird Bakery. Rebecca Reeves did hair and make-up for Nora, her bridesmaids, and her flower girl.
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THE FIRST LOOK
While the girls were primping the guys were getting dressed at the cottages. Andrew wore special clockwork cuff links given to him that morning from his Bride. Once everyone was dressed and ready, they guys were shuttled down to the lodge for the first look. As Andrew waited on the lawn, Nora made her way nervously down the path to meet him for the first time that day. When they saw each other there was a definite rush of emotions, and as they walked back to the lodge together they found the whole wedding party and their parents watching them from the window wall of the Lodge.
THE CEREMONY
PHOTOGRAPHY CLAYTON ZANE PHOTOGRAPHY | WWW.CLAYTONZANE.PHOTOGRAPHY
The ceremony was held on the old putting green overlooking a beautiful pond and facing the sunset. Nora’s Mom walked her down the aisle and gave her away. The officiant was a dear friend from high school: Doug McIlwain. During the ceremony Nora and Andrew symbolically planted a Japanese maple tree with dirt from their family homes and water from South Holston Lake, their favorite place to spend time together. As the ceremony ended, they walked down the aisle together to The Beetles “Here comes then sun” played on site by Daniel Blair’s string trio.
THE RECEPTION
The reception held at the Party Barn of the The Olde Farm was exactly the dance party Nora and Andrew had hoped for. DJ Ben Felton of East Coast Entertainment kept the dance floor packed all night. To get the party started Nora and Andrew had their first dance to Janis Joplin’s “Piece of my heart.” It was a bit untraditional but it is what the couple always danced to when spending time at Andrew’s parents lake house. Andrew and Nora spent most of the night on the dance floor, but some time was spent catching up with old friends by the large outdoor fire pit. It was the perfect night, not cold but just cool enough to enjoy the fire.
THE LOCATION
The Olde Farm did such an amazing job with all of the food but Nora and Andrew’s favorite was the Shrimp and grits station from Chef Abigail Hutchinson: it was out of this world. Thanks to all of the staff and The Olde Farm, including Lori Boggs and Kristen Kistner, the day was completely stress free for the couple.
THE CAKE
The delicious four tier cake came from Unique Cake and Catering and the groom’s “cake” was a bowl of bourbon nib brittle from Nashville store Olive and Sinclair. Everything was perfect except when Andrew decided to be sneaky during the cake cutting. Andrew was feeding Nora with his right hand, and the next thing she saw was his left hand coming at her full of icing. Luckily one big kiss and all was forgiven.
THE GRAND EXIT
As the night ended, their friends lined up outside with sparklers and Nora and Andrew made their grand exit and were whisked off the spend the night and the Martha Washington Inn, the same place the groom’s Brother and parents spent their wedding nights. www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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• Located on 25 pastoral acres • Less than 1 mile from Historic Downtown Jonesborough, TN • Each differently themed bedroom has its own private bathroom • Delicious breakfasts featuring food from the farm and homemade evening treats • Visit with friendly farm animals • Enjoy a canoe ride or “catch and release” fishing on the pond • Relax with our collection of games, puzzles, musical instruments and books • Entire Farmhouse is available for rent for family reunions, parties, and other special events
Bed & Breakfast
Storybrook Farm Bed & Breakfast is tucked into 25 peaceful pastoral acres less than one mile from downtown historic Jonesborough - Tennessee’s oldest town and home to the International Storytelling Center. Stay in our brick Farmhouse where five generations of family treasures from different times and places each has its own tale to tell. Awake in the morning to a delicious breakfast featuring our farm’s naturally fresh eggs, fruit, nuts, berries, herbs, and vegetables. In the evening, enjoy a warm batch of chocolate chip cookies from our secret family recipe. Take in the panoramic views of rolling hills, orchards, woods, and mountains as you sit back with a cup of tea in one of the farm’s colorful flower gardens or on your own private balcony. Enjoy a stroll or paddle around the pond catching glimpses of local wildlife. From there, head to the barnyard to meet the farm animals. The surrounding area provides hiking, biking, rafting, nature walks, historic sites, golf and much more. Venture into Jonesborough for dining, shopping, music, storytelling events or just relax in a hammock and enjoy the beauty of the farm. 14
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Weddings
At Storybrook Farm our goal is to provide you with a personalized wedding experience that is enchanting, relaxing, and fun. You have a choice of lush flower gardens, shaded woods, open fields, or a willow-lined pond, each with its own stunning view, making our picturesque venue the idyllic location for your perfect outdoor wedding.
Offering:
• Weddings available for 2 to 150 people, from small Elopement Packages to the ultimate Fairytale Wedding • Choice of onsite ceremony and reception locations • Essential event supplies and services (chairs, farm tables, dancefloors, reception tent, set-up and clean-up) • An in-house Personal Wedding Assistant who provides
month of wedding management, event coordination and decorating service Event Decorations in The Wedding Vault (more than $10,000 worth of choices) including a Reception Lounge and Photo Booth with fun costumes and props Optional overnight lodging and rehearsal dinner space available
• •
DARCIE BRUCE PHOTOGRAPHY
TRUNG PHAN PHOTOGRAPHY
RAPHY
DEANA FLEENOR PHOTOG
Bed and Breakfast, Diane Vogt
Weddings, Brittany Jorgenson
StorybrookFarmTN.com
StorybrookfarmWeddings.com
423-262-7995
423-794-7881
StorybrookFarm@gmail.com
info@StorybrookFarmWeddings.com
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VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Ben & Amelia Barker
PHOTOGRAPHER A CREATIVE PEAR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING COORDINATOR SUSAN TAYLOR OF KINGSPORT • CAKE DEBRA ADAMS CATERER HARBOR CLUB • VIDEOGRAPHER EVAN LANIER, OF THEORY Y DESIGN WEDDING & RECEPTION VENUE HARBOR CLUB ON LAKE OCONEE FLORIST KENT DUFFEY DESIGNS • GOWN SWEET ELEGANCE BRIDAL CEREMONY MUSIC KEITH GEHLE, OF ATLANTA CLASSICAL GUITAR RECEPTION MUSIC MICHAEL HAWKINS OF JOHNSON CITY CUSTOM DESIGNED & HANDMADE INVITATIONS THE FAINTING GOAT PRESS, KNOXVILLE
PERSONALIZED WEDDING FAVORS JERRY B. PETERS SALES, INC., BRISTOL, VA UNIQUE & SPECIALTY ITEMS ABINGDON MERCANTILE, ABINGDON, VA SIGNS (PRINTING & LETTERING) JERRY’S SIGNS, ABINGDON, VA PRINTING OF WEDDING PROGRAMS, MENUS & DINNER PLACE CARDS CAMPBELL PRINTING, BRISTOL, VA SPECIALTY PHOTOBOARDS MAILWORKS, JOHNSON CITY, TN
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| OCTOBER 22, 2016
Ben and I met while I was attending Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Georgia where I earned my undergraduate degree. Ben is a native of Abingdon, Virginia and a graduate of Ferrum College in Ferrum Virginia. My best friend Erin was working in the clubhouse of a prestigious golf community, Harbor Club in Greensboro, Georgia, and told me they were in need of additional servers in the restaurant. Being a college student, I couldn’t pass up an opportunity for extra income. I interviewed, and ended up receiving the position, and began almost immediately. Soon after I started, I noticed this handsome fellow working in the golf pro shop and was immediately smitten. I would blush and grin from ear to ear, every time Ben would walk over to the restaurant to ask for a water refill and stumble over my words as I spoke to him. He would say that I made the best water, as I would give him two lemons instead of one. Feeling like I was in grade school, Erin ended up approaching the both of us asking “do you think he’s cute, do you think she’s cute?” with each of us responding “yes!”, she initiated a group date. From that day on, we became inseparable and didn’t spend too many days apart after that. I’m so thankful Erin played match maker because the timing couldn’t have been more perfect for my life. Ben and I grew our relationship and fell more in love with one another as each day passed. I knew he was the one I would marry and he the same. Fast forward four years and many wonderful memories later to the night of February 13th, 2016 my dream came true and I received the most beautiful engagement ring from my prince charming. He proposed in Nashville (one of my favorite cities) on the most romantic weekend of the year. It was truly a magical night for me. As soon as we returned to Knoxville, Tennessee, (where we now call home) the wedding planning began! I knew that I wanted a southern vintage feel, with lace, lanterns, and rustic pieces. With the help of my wonderful mother-in-law Becky Matney, and my mother Becky Rice, my fairy tale came to life. We wanted to support local businesses and Artisans, and with the wedding in Georgia, we planned here in Virginia and Tennessee, and then implemented everything in Georgia. After eight months of planning, Ben and I married at the very place we met, Harbor Club on Lake Oconee on October 22nd, 2016. The weather and ambiance were perfect. We said our vows under an arbor specially built for our wedding. Cedar trees from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia were chosen, then skillfully constructed by Johnny Rasnake, Richard Hollick and Larry Brumitt. Under the arbor hung three beautifully designed, handcrafted, stained glass panes, created in Abingdon, Virginia at The Glass Peacock Stained Glass Studio by stained glass artisan and family friend, Kristi Hartshorn along with her assistant Rhonda Kindig. The barn doors, at the entrance of our wedding, were re-purposed from a barn in Virginia and created a grand entrance like no other. Our beautiful flowers were selected and placed by Kent Duffey Designs of Greensboro, Georgia. Lake Oconee Rental provided the beautiful sailcloth tent, chairs, tables, bars, favor tables and linens. Our photos were captured by A Creative Pear Wedding Photography of Atlanta, Georgia. Evan Lanier, of Theory Y Design, produced an amazing video capturing the true spirt of the event. The ceremony music was provided by Keith Gehle, of Atlanta Classical Guitar. Our reception music was provided by Michael Hawkins of Johnson City, Tennessee. Our beautiful cake was made with love from Debra Adams of Greensboro, Georgia. My beautiful lace gown, was selected from Sweet Elegance Bridal in Atlanta, Georgia. The wedding was directed by Susan Taylor of Kingsport, Tennessee. The food provided at our wedding and rehearsal dinner was deliciously made from the clubhouse restaurant at Harbor Club. We provided a variety of Virginia peanuts and Georgia pecans as favors for our guests, creating “mixed nuts.” Accompanying the nuts were easels creatively designed by Ben’s
mother, which specified “Whether you’re a Virginia Peanut or a Georgia Pecan, now we’re all mixed nuts!” Overall, our wedding day was the perfect mix of fun, elegance, tradition and fellowship. As Ben and I exited through a tunnel of our sparkler wielding friends and family, we rode into the night on a golf cart ready to start our lives together. We are both very thankful for all of the people who played a part in helping us celebrate our wedding day, we know that there was a lot of hard work performed to capture this moment. A moment we will remember for the rest of our lives, and for that, Ben and I are forever greatful.
www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Hunter & Bree Bledsoe
PHOTOGRAPHER KATIE JANE GOULAH PHOTOGRAPHY HAIR AND MAKE UP CARI DUPREY • ACCOMMODATIONS Q & A RESIDENTIAL HOTEL BRIDE’S ATTIRE AND JEWELRY J. CREW VINTAGE GOLD CLUTCH VIOLET’S VOLITION, WWW.VIOLETSVOLITION.COM FAMILY PICTURE KATE TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY, WWW.KATETAYLORPHOTO.COM FLOWERS ARRANGED BY THE BRIDE AND PURCHASED FROM FLOWER MARKETS IN CHELSEA THE MORNING OF THE WEDDING.
| JULY 14, 2016
A FAIRY TALE ENDING 20 YEARS IN THE MAKING
I met Hunter when I was 15 and he was 17. I was a Freshman cheerleader at Sullivan South High School and he was a Senior on the Varsity Basketball and Baseball teams. Although neither of us can remember exactly when or how we met, we would date on and off for the next 3 years. We eventually went our separate ways, lost touch and life dealt us both some pretty difficult cards along the way. But in November of 2014 when Hunter messaged me on Match.com laughing that I had been his “match of the day”, I couldn’t deny that I felt like that same giddy freshman cheerleader all over again. We texted for the next week and then met up for coffee on my birthday. I remember looking at him across the table while he told me about where all life had taken him and feeling like the last 20 years had only been a few months. We talked for hours and I eventually told him that even though we both currently lived in Nashville, I had bought a house back in the TriCities and was moving back there in a month. We decided we would just enjoy the time we had and then say our goodbyes again... but the more time we spent together, the clearer it became that this was truly our second chance at the happy ending we had daydreamed about back in high school. So, for the next year and a half we lived 5 hours apart, but we never went more than 10 days without seeing each other. Hunter travels often for his company (and has more airline points that
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you can imagine). I had a flexible schedule and was often able to tag along or use those points to go other places ... giving us the most fairy tale dating life I could have ever dreamed of. During those 18 months, we had dates in Maryland, Nashville, San Francisco, Napa Valley, Chicago (twice!) LA, Asheville, Cape Cod, Atlanta, The Bahamas, Memphis, the TriCities and our most visited spot - the half way pointKnoxville (where we would sometimes meet for dinner and a movie and then drive back to our respective cities). Hunter never asked me to marry him... he told me he was going to marry me after we had been dating a few months. Which was so very HIM... and that’s the guy I love. Neither of us had a desire for a traditional wedding... we had both done it before. I started looking on Pinterest for non traditional ideas and fell head over heels in love with pictures I found of weddings at City Hall in New York City. It was just like Carrie and Big! (Any Sex & the City fans out there?) I also felt like it would be a perfect way to end our fairy tale dating relationship before beginning our life in the real world! I sent Hunter the idea and he was completely on board! I couldn’t have been happier with our decision. It was just the two of us with the justice of the peace and our photographer when we said our vows, but I felt surrounded by the love of each person who had prayed for us to find happiness after heartbreak. I felt an overwhelming sense of peace, joy and sincere gratitude for this second chance. I believe that as long as we never forget how blessed we truly are to have each other, we may have some dragons to slay, but we will do it side by side... and we will live happily ever after. NOT THE END... IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING!
Hunter is Co-Founder and Head of Development at The Bledsoe Agency. Bree is taking a break from Bakery life, but continues to manage social media accounts for several businesses in the TriCities. They live with their combined four children in Nashville, TN. Teachbakelove@yahoo.com www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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VIPSEEN
TYING THE KNOT
Honeymoon Memories
STORY BY LARK ADAMS
“From Gatlinburg to Grand Cayman” M
any married couples choose to take a honeymoon trip after their wedding. It is a great way to de-stress and relax after what is usually a busy and hectic time in the weeks and months leading up to the marriage. Oftentimes, people want to lay on a warm beach and do nothing, but some choose a more active option, or even decide to go to a place where they have never been to experience something new with their new spouse. Whatever the destination, a couple’s honeymoon is sure to be something they will never forget. “When my husband and I got married, we decided to go to Trinidad and Tobago, the two Southernmost Caribbean islands, right off the coast of Venezuela. The first several days were spent relaxing on the sandy beaches of Tobago, the smaller island in the twin-island Republic. It was glorious and just what we needed. Then we took the 20 minute flight over to Trinidad, a much larger island with over 1 million inhabitants. There, we were treated to another wedding reception with family and friends, since both of my parents were born and raised on the island of Trinidad. We had about 75 people for dinner and drinks, and (of course!) another wedding cake. Brad and I often say that we had the best oneweek anniversary party ever!” – Lark Adams, married to Brad Adams since 2002. “When we got married, we were living in Virginia Beach so we wanted a honeymoon in the mountains. We got a fabulous place in Gatlinburg, on top of a mountain, but my husband threw his back out carrying our luggage into the room. Needless to say, it put a damper on the rest of the trip, but at least we had a great view of the Smokies while he recuperated!” - Donnie Hurt, married to Dallas Hurt since 1974. “A destination wedding seemed like a great way to keep things stress-free and combine the wedding with the honeymoon, so we planned our marriage to take place on the island of Grand Cayman. Little did we know that half the battle would be getting there! The flight we reserved with all of our family members was cancelled at the last minute and in order to get to Grand Cayman to meet with our wedding planner and finalize all the details, we had to be rerouted on four different flights instead of the two we had originally planned to take. Then, just like a cliché from a bad movie, when we finally arrived on Grand Cayman, everyone’s luggage arrived safely except for mine (the bride’s). Thankfully we had our wedding day attire in our carry-on luggage, but I had to borrow clothes in order to keep the dress a surprise until the big day. Luckily, those were the only issues and the rest of the trip was blissfully romantic and easy. It’s hard to believe that next month we will celebrate 10 years of marriage!” - Katie Rainero, married to Mitchell Rainero since 2007. “Since our wedding plans were fairly traditional, we wanted to do something very unique for our honeymoon. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to cross a destination off of our life list of places we wanted to visit in the world. We first considered going to the Mt. Everest base camp in the Himalayan mountains of Nepal, but thought that might be too strenuous and not very romantic. We then considered Japan, but when friends found out we were thinking of Japan, they urged us to go to Vietnam instead. We got an authentic, friendly experience in a country that really caters to tourists. It was an amazing trip! We spent 10 days exploring Hanoi and the North Vietnam countryside and it is a place we would definitely return to someday. However, in the three and a half years since we were married, we have had two children and all of our most recent travel has been around the United States to visit family. But we are already thinking of where our children’s first international trip will be – maybe somewhere a little closer… like Italy or Mexico!” – Kathryn Berkenpas, married to Eric Berkenpas since 2013.
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VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Greg & Sarah Lovelace
GOWN ANNIE’S ROOM FLORIST RAINBOW’S END CATERER THE FARMERS DAUGHTER PHOTOGRAPHER A TWISTED LENZ PHOTOGRAPHY & MITZI EMIG PHOTOGRAPHY WEDDING COORDINATOR CARLA CHRISTIAN, EVENTS FOR LESS WEDDING & RECEPTION VENUE ALLANDALE MANSION RECEPTION MUSIC DJ MIKE’S ENTERTAINMENT
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| OCTOBER 29, 2016
HOW WE MET... Our love story began in 2010 when my best friend Lindsey took me to a local music venue in Kingsport. Greg was performing that night and after the show ended he came up to me and introduced himself. We started dating a few months later in October 2010. We dated all through high school, we went to junior and senior prom together. He was there when I got my first car, my first job and he watched my siblings grow up. We continued to date through college and we always knew that we wanted to get married. Although 6 years may seem like a long time, it allowed us time to really get to know each other and realize that we truly meant to spend the rest of our lives together. THE PROPOSAL… A couple months before I was to graduate from ETSU, Greg and I, along with my family, decided to take our spring break vacation down to Clearwater Florida. Right at sunset one night Greg took me down by the ocean, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. The proposal was incredibly special because my family was able to witness it from the balcony of our condo.
THE WEDDING…. We wanted to get married during the same month that we started dating so, 7 months after the proposal on October 29, 2016, we were married. We were married under a beautiful gazebo and had our reception in a quaint dance barn. We could not have asked for a more perfect day, it was sunny and warm. Everything went exactly as planned and we danced the night away. Our wedding was the best day of our lives and we will remember it forever. There are so many people who made this day special for us. One of the first things I did to prepare for the wedding was get a wedding planner. Carla Christian with “Events for Less” was my event coordinator and planner and we even rented our wedding decorations from her. She is a great wedding planner and helped me out tremendously, she went above and beyond and was very professional. I bought my dress from Annie’s Room in Kingsport, they waited on me hand and foot and their seamstress, Jenna, did an amazing job with the alterations. We got married at the Allandale Mansion in Kingsport, the venue was great and was very affordable. We were married under their beautiful gazebo and had our reception in their dance barn. Our catering was through the Farmers Daughter; Sheri did a fantastic job with the food. Her customer service was amazing and the food was out of this world. We went with a simple cake from Walmart, and it turned out beautiful. Our flowers were through Rainbows End, Laura went above and beyond to make sure the flowers were exactly what we wanted, she also made beautiful pumpkin flower arrangements for our table decorations. Our DJ was with DJ Mike’s Entertainment out of North Carolina. He really made the wedding fun and has a talent for getting people up and dancing. THE HONEYMOON… We honeymooned at the Rui all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica. We experienced beautiful weather and a week of relaxation. We kayaked, paddle boated, went to shows at night and enjoyed unlimited food and drinks. www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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Bristol Bridal Station
at y Bristol
106 State Street Bristol, TN 423.968.9444 bristolbridalstation.com
new • affordable • couture
The Bristol Bridal Station is a program of YWCA Bristol that provides NEW designer wedding gowns and formalwear at up to 75% off retail prices. The gowns are donated by partnering bridal salons from locations across the country including Philadelphia, Charleston, Miami and Dallas to bring an incredible selection of designer styles that are rare in our region.
“Couture f
or a Cause
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”
Hours: Bristol Bridal Station takes pride in providing every bride a personalized shopping experience in a
boutique-style salon, located inside YWCA Bristol at 106 State Street, in Bristol, TN. The Bridal Station is open to the public Fridays from 1-4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Private Bristol Bridal Station takes pride in providing every bride a personalized shopping experience in a weekday showings with exclusive use of the boutique are also available by boutique-style salon, located inside YWCA Bristol at 106 State Street, in Bristol, TN. The Bridal Station is open to appointment. Call 423.968.9444 more information to schedule the public Fridays from 1-4 p.m. andfor Saturdays from 10 a.m.and - 3 p.m. Private your session. weekday showings with exclusive use of the boutique are also available by
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appointment. Call 423.968.9444 for more information and to schedule your session.
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appointment Monday-Thursday. | januar y/februar y 2017 29
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHAEL WILBUR; RACHAEL WILBUR STUDIOS
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www.prestigeaesthetics.com www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017 31
VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Curtis & Johanna Montgomery MAY 28, 2016
FLORAL DECORATIONS RAINBOW’S END • RECEPTION THE VIRGINIAN GOLF CLUB WEDDING CAKE AND GROOM’S CAKE CAKEBUDS BAKERY DJ/MC SERVICES PATRICK MICHAEL WEDDINGS • TUX VERA WANG BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY CLAYTON ZANE PHOTOGRAPHY • TRANSPORTATION F AND L LIMO VIDEOGRAPHY ORANGE LEAF MEDIA • WEDDING DRESS ALFRED ANGELO’S CEREMONY SAINT ANNE’S CATHOLIC CHURCH HONEYMOON EL DORADO SEASIDE SUITES • TRAVEL AGENT OLDHAM TRAVEL DINNER MUSIC MARIACHI SOMBRA DE MEXICO INVITATIONS THE HAPPY ENVELOPE
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Johanna and Curtis met in August 2011 at King University while they were both obtaining their Master in Business Administration. They started out as casual friends exchanging the normal “hey” when walking into the room. During one of their classes, the professor asked Curtis why he didn’t sit with the rest of the class, at that point Johanna pointed out a seat next to her and said “Come sit by me, I won’t bite…too hard.” And that was the beginning of a friendship that lead into marriage. Curtis and Johanna didn’t start dating until the summer after they finished their MBA. They dated for a little under a year before getting engaged. Curtis proposed to Johanna by arranging a scavenger hunt. “He had talked to people who not only knew us as individuals, but us as a couple and had each of these people deliver one of the clues.” The last clue was given to Johanna by one of her sisters and led her to King, where Curtis was waiting on her and popped the question. Curtis and Johanna got married on May 28, 2016 in Bristol Virginia. The ceremony was held at St. Anne’s Catholic Church with the reception at The Virginian Golf Club. They honeymooned at the El Dorado Seaside Suites in the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Curtis and Johanna now reside in Kingsport and are expecting their first child.
www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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INDOORS, OUTDOORS, IN A CHURCH, OR ON THE FARM CELEBRATE RENTALS WILL MAKE YOUR EVENT SPECTACULAR.
Images by JoPhoto
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VIP Southern Dwellings - January 2017 Issue_Layout 1 12/13/2016 11:23 AM Page 1
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Trend Watch Today’s kitchens are high-tech, colorful and all about convenience. Consider the following appliances for your next upgrade. High-Tech Culinary Coaching The use of smartphones and other mobile technology allows for quick access to information. And now you can easily customize your cooking experience with helpful information offered by smart appliances. Some wall ovens house a gourmet guide within the oven itself that directs meal preparation for more than 50 food options, including desired doneness and the type of pan to use. Induction Cooking Induction cooking relies on magnetic technology to heat the cookware and uses far less electricity than standard cooktops and ranges. The heating response isn’t just fast – it is instant! You can boil a pot of water in three minutes. And because induction cooking only heats the pot and the area directly under it, the surrounding area is safe to the touch even when in use. Color In Unexpected Places Many homeowners keep their kitchen looking fresh and vibrant by adding a pop of color to an accent wall or by selecting colorfully coordinated dishes, pots and pans and small appliances. Building on this trend, a pop of color in a non-traditional space such as the exterior door of a range or the interior of a refrigerator is a fun and unexpected design detail.
From cooking up culinary creations to storing fresh ingredients, appliance purchases are an investment in productivity. Don’t simply replace an appliance, select an option that is larger, faster and efficient enough to meet your needs for years to come.
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VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Drew & Madison Roberts
VENUE STORYBROOK FARM, BED AND BREAKFAST • DJ NIGHTS MOVE MOBILE DJ CATERING PRATT’S BARBECUE • CAKE EMBREE WEDDING CAKES PHOTOGRAPHER DIANE SIMMONS • FLORIST AUNT WILLIES WILDFLOWERS DRESS DAVID’S BRIDAL FOR WEDDING DRESS AND BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES TUX MEN’S WAREHOUSE FOR GROOM AND GROOMSMEN TUXES
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| MAY 21, 2016
HOW WE MET/PROPOSAL Drew and I met when I was in the 10th grade and he was in the 11th. I was on the yearbook staff and he was in the band when I asked him if I could interview him for the marching band page. Four short years later, he proposed at Tupelo Honey Café in April! We were going just for what I thought would be a typical date night. We were placed on a wait list, where they then told us to grab a drink and head to the outside patio to wait until we were called. While walking outside, the end of the patio was lit up with white lights, flowers and a special table for two. He then informed me that the table was for the two of us! As I sat down, my heart instantly started pacing. He started to talk and explain why he had this table for the two of us, and in seconds he was down on one knee proposing! After tears were shed and a thousand times of saying yes, out come all of our closest family and friends where we then celebrated our new engagement!
WEDDING Our wedding was May 21st, 2016 at Storybrook Farm in Jonesborough, TN. The ceremony was held at 5:30 with the reception to follow with appetizers and a sangria bar during the time our pictures were being taken, with dinner to follow with a night of dancing! HONEYMOON For our honeymoon, we left on a 7 day, 6 night cruise out of Charleston, South Carolina. The cruise left on a Sunday, so we decided to leave Friday night after work and spend a few days in Charleston before we left dock! VENUE Our dream wedding was held at Storybrook Farm Bed and Breakfast. We had the venue for the weekend, where they offered us both of their houses for us and our wedding party to stay, an area for our rehearsal dinner, multiple options for the ceremony site, full decoration service from their ‘vault’ full of antiques and so much more. They made our wedding everything we ever dreamed of plus so much more. WEDDING WEBSITES theknot.com This was used for our personal wedding website where our guests were able to look at wedding details and RSVP. www.theknot.com/us/theroberts Wedding Paper Divas We printed our wedding invites here, had our address labels printed, wedding ceremony itinerary printed, and napkins made through this website. Totallypromotional.com The cups we used at our sangria bar were also a take home gift for our guests. They were designed on this website, which had our names, wedding date and a design on a frosted keepsake cup. www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Dylan & Holly Shockley
HOW WE MET Dylan and I met when we were in middle school. He was my brother’s best friend and lived right up the road from us. We didn’t really start talking until my freshman year of high school and it took him a while before he asked me to hangout, but once we did we hit off. We finally started dating in December of 2009 and were on and off for a while, but I knew from the beginning that he was some how going to be in my life forever. THE PROPOSAL His proposal will forever be one of my favorite memories because I am all about treasuring the little things in life and I am not one for big surprises and neither is he. It was on Dec. 17th, 2014; not even a month after our precious baby boy was born. I think it was as simple as simple gets and I couldn’t have loved it more. I was at home feeding the baby when he came in with an ornament that looked like a Christmas tree, got down on one knee and then went on a big spiel on how doing big things just isn’t him and my words were “what are you doing?” and I went to grab the ornament from him and it opened with the most beautiful ring in it and all I could say is what is this with the biggest smile. And then he finally asked if I would spend the rest of my life with him and I happily said YES. THE OLD SHADY FARM We had our wedding at one of my bridesmaid’s house. She has a beautiful farm with open fields and two big barns. I did most of the planning myself, but the decorating of the barn was done by Karen Graham, my bridesmaid’s mom. The ceremony decorations were from “Southern Knot Wedding Rentals”. We had a beautiful hand 40
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| SEPTEMBER 24, 2016
PHOTOGRAPHER A MOMENT CAPTURED BY BRITTANY CAKE TAYLOR & JESSICA DEBORD HAIR & MAKEUP RAYNE TORBETT WEDDING & RECEPTION VENUE THE OLD SHADY FARM BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES BURGUNDY CONVERTIBLE DRESSES THAT WE ORDER FROM ETSY. THEY WERE SO PRETTY AND THE GIRLS WERE ABLE STYLE IT HOWEVER THEY WANTED. RECEPTION MUSIC AFFORDABLE DJ SERVICE
made tree arbor, whiskey barrels, and french doors with barn wood around them with a bible verse that was also handmade. Our reception was held right outside the barn where we had a hand-built dance floor that lights strung from over them and tables that went all the way around the dance floor. The food and cake were inside the barn and we also had a hayride for all the kids. Their farm is not an actually wedding venue yet, but it was beyond beautiful and more than we ever imagined. We hope they eventually open their beautiful land so more people can experience the beauty it will bring to their wedding day. THE HONEYMOON We enjoyed our honeymoon with a week away in Pensacola, Florida. A week of pure relaxation by the ocean and pool where it was so quiet and not many people around. Our nights were spent being lazy and watching movies in our gorgeous condo. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to start our new lives as Mr. and Mrs. Shockley. We want to thank everyone who helped us by setting up, making the food, and helping us take it all down at the end. It was truly a special day, but even more special that we had everyone there to celebrate with us.
www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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VIPSEEN REAL WEDDINGS
Roderick & Leanne Stent
WEDDING PLANNER KIERSA HOLY OF KIERSA EVENTS FLOWERS URBAN FARM GIRL • PHOTOGRAPHY REVIVAL PHOTOGRAPHY VENUE THE LODGE ON LAKE LURE • STATIONARY DESIGN JILL MCAMIS THE DRESS WEDDING INSPIRATIONS OF ASHEVILLE • HAIR HANNAH SWELL SALON MAKE UP WENDY AT BLUSH ASHEVILLE • SPEAK EASY PARTY SOVEREIGN REMEDIES RECEPTION MUSIC SANDY MCCOSH AT SOUND EXTREME
| OCTOBER 16, 2016
THEY MET HOW… Leanne and Roderick met on a photography expedition in a wintery Yellowstone National Park in February 2014. He was traveling from Madison, Wisconsin where he lived and worked as a Banker. She was traveling from Johnson City, TN where she was doing music, spending time with her family, and enjoying the mountains. They met the first day at a coffee shop. It was one of those cafés with two tables and barely enough room to turn around. Nevertheless, a spark was formed. They boarded the snow coaches heading into the wild for a challenging wintery experience. Over the next week they bonded over the five feet of snow, watching wildlife, late dinners, and their shared love of National Parks. On the last night of the trip, the adventure transitioned to the next level with an innocent kiss in downtown Bozeman. Snowflakes fell and sparks ignited. They had a moment and it was special. They knew that their future was ahead of them. THE PROPOSAL… They began dating. Six months later, Roderick and Leanne decided he would relocate to the TriCities. They had each other and their love of photography, travel, and art in common. The connection just grew stronger by the day. The courtship was an exciting discovery of love. They planned to revisit the Greater Yellowstone area in September 2015 for a vacation. The excitement of returning to Yellowstone was special on many levels. It was where they first connected for adventure and fun. They photographed the sun rising on the mountain peaks, the trees showcasing their vibrant fall colors, snapped shots of the wildlife and enjoyed their shared time in both Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. Roderick proposed in the middle of the week in a spot overlooking the lake and the reflecting Grand Tetons. She said “yes” and their week of Romance sweetened.
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CHOOSING ASHEVILLE AND LAKE LURE FOR THE WEDDING WEEK... They chose to return to the mountains of North Carolina for their wedding. Their hope was to share with their guests their love of nature, the South, and Autumn. They planned a week of festivities starting in Asheville and ending up in Lake Lure for a Saturday ceremony. The week started with two artsy dinners and a chic Speak Easy Party complete with cocktails and party favors. The gorgeous rehearsal dinner was held in the event space at Rhubarb in downtown Asheville. It was a farm-to-table meal served family-style creating a community environment with their family and close friends. The wedding was a small intimate affair on October 16th. The venue was outside with a view of Lake Lure and the Mountains at The Lodge on Lake Lure. The party enjoyed the “I do’s”,
in ideal Autumn weather, a Stringed Trio playing contemporary rock tunes, and cocktails on the Lodge’s veranda. Everyone moved indoors to an elegantly set table for a romantic feast by candlelight. Toasts by family and friends adjourned and bread pudding was served. The married couple cut their wedding cake. The party moved back outside to the beautifully transformed lounge area for dancing - complete with a DJ, string lights, and decor. Music, dancing, singing, sparklers, and Vortex Doughnuts took the evening into the night. A DREAM HONEYMOON IN ICELAND... Roderick and Leanne love to travel and photograph the world together. They hope to travel to Iceland in 2017 for their Dream Honeymoon to see the beautiful landscapes and sites of this amazing country. #StentWedding2016 #LoveFound
www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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VIPSEEN
TYING THE KNOT STORY BY LARK ADAMS
Letters of Advice to the Bride & Groom Dear Bride: This is it! Your big day is here and it will be one you will never forget. It’s
easy to get wrapped up in all of the minor details leading up to a wedding, but as long as you, your groom, and close family and friends are with you as you start this new adventure called marriage, that is all that really matters. Keep in mind: 1. Something will probably not go exactly as planned. The chances of someone attending your wedding realizing that things aren’t 100% perfect are very slim. Details are for the bride and her family, not for the wedding guests. Chances are they will either think things were supposed to be that way, or they won’t give it a second thought. 2. Your family and friends will always be there for you, but they might be a little happier about running and fetching for you if you treat them with kindness and respect. No Bridezillas allowed! 3. What matters most is the love, commitment and joy you are sharing today with the person with whom you have chosen to spend the rest of your life.
Dear Groom: What do you have to be nervous about?? No one is going to be looking at
you on the big day anyhow, so relax and enjoy yourself. Just kidding! Just as a wedding day is one of the most important days in a bride’s life, it is also one of the most important days in the life of a groom. You are committing yourself to another person for the rest of your life and it is not something to be taken lightly. That said, you don’t have nearly as much pressure on you as the woman does, since chances are she has been dreaming about this day since her childhood. A few things to remember about your role on this day: 1. Your job is to be the support staff to her flag waving in the breeze. If she starts to get overly stressed, step in when possible, or just provide a listening ear and even a shoulder to cry on if things aren’t going exactly as planned. 2. Be on time to all wedding events, and fully complete any tasks assigned to you (well in advance, if possible). 3. What matters most is the love, commitment and joy you are sharing today with the person with whom you have chosen to spend the rest of your life.
Congratulations and Best Wishes for a long and happy life together!
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1. Average reduction in fat volume following single treatment as measured by MRI; Clinical and Histological Evaluations of a 1060nm Laser Device for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction, John W. Decorato, M.D., FACS. Rafael Sierra, Ph.D., Bo Chen, Ph.D., Westford, MA, 2014. 2. Single treatment with an average in fat volume as measured by MRI; Clinical and Histological Evaluations of a 1060nm Laser Devicefor Non-Invasive Fat Reduction -John W.Decorato,MD.,F AC S.Rafael Sierra,Ph.D., Bo Chen,Ph.D., Westford, MA, 2014. 2 Average patient discomfort rating of 3.7 on a scale of 1-10; Katz B, Doherty S. A multicenter study of the safety and efficacy of a non-invasive 1060 nm diode laser for fat reduction of the flanks. Paper presented at: 2015 Annual American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Conference; April 22-26; Kissimmee, FL.
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VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
Day Trippin’ with Linda
HAWKSNEST NORTH CAROLINA STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA COFFEY
E
ven if there isn’t snow in the Tri Cities or Southwest Virginia, you can still spend the day sliding down the hill on a tube! Load up the car with friends and family for a day trip to Hawksnest, North Carolina. Hawksnest was once a ski resort, but closed in 2008 to skiing and snowboarding. They now offer Snow Tubing in the winter and Zip Lining throughout the year.
The Tubing park is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast! They have over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400-1000 feet long. There are four different areas for tubing, to make the experience fun for all ages. The park has snow making facilities, to ensure that the conditions are always ready for the fun! You can book on-line to reserve your 1 hour and 45 minutes tubing session. If a session is not full, first-come first-serve tickets may be purchased. Tickets are $27 ($34 on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays) for ages 3 and up. It is suggested that you check on-line for weather conditions before making the trip. If it is 50 degrees and raining, snow tubing won’t be much fun! Layer your clothing in order to stay warm! It is strongly suggested to wear a waterproof layer on the outside (especially pants!). The park has a photographer that will capture your fun moments and offer them for sale after your session. The Lodge offers food and drink, but you are also welcome to bring your own food. For adults who want to watch the fun, there is a bar with large windows upstairs for a warm way to watch the fun. After the session you will be tired, but happy!
WEBSITE: www.hawksnesttubing.com DIRECTIONS: Hawksnest is located just off of Highway 105 South between Boone and Banner Elk, North Carolina, high atop Seven Devils, North Carolina. From Interstate 40 take Hwy 321 North or Hwy 221 North to Highway 105. You’ll see the sign at the entrance to Seven Devils. Just follow the signs up the mountain.
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY HANDS ON! REGIONAL MUSEUM
Night of PHYLLIS AND MIKE BAUGUESS
THEA AND JUSTIN GOULDING
JENNIFER AND JEFF CLEMENTS
Lights Gala PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATH OWENS AND CONTRIBUTED BY HANDS ON! MUSEUM STORY BY HEATH OWENS
The Hands On! Museum Night of Lights Gala transported guests from Main Street in Downtown Johnson City to the French Quarter of the Big Easy the moment they walked off the sidewalk and into the occasion. Starting with the entry photo booth complete with masquerade masks, to iron streetlamps lighting the tables and auction booths, the Cajun meal by Main Street Catering and dueling pianos as the grand finale, the night “Laissé les bons temps rouler.”
STEVE AND ANNE SONNEBERGER, JENNIFER SNYDER, AND PAUL AND NATALIE CARTER
The 28th annual Night of Lights gala was held on the evening of Friday, November 18. The gala is the museum’s largest fundraiser each year, hosting about 200 guests with a $30,000 fundraising goal. “All of the money raised goes to programs and exhibits at the museum,” said Andy Marquart, Executive Director of Hands On! Regional Museum. “This is our biggest event and it is completely run by volunteers. They do so much work to help us out, and this really wouldn’t be possible without them.” Marquart said that if the gala is successful, it directly impacts the trajectory for the rest of the year for the museum. The gala raises funds from ticket sales, donations and a silent auction. This year ’s auction items included artwork, health and beauty items like massages and fitness packages, sports items like golf packages and autographed items, trips to exciting locales and entertainment packages.
CORY AND KJ GULSON, MARK AND KAREN DURKEE, AMELIA DURKEE, AND CHRIS COLLINS
The entertainment highlight of the evening was an interactive show featuring Stellar Dueling Pianos. “Usually we change the theme each year, but last year we brought in dueling pianos and was so wildly successful that we had to do it again,” said Marquart. “People had such a great time with it, and because of that, the gala was almost immediately sold out this year.” JOSE AND SHANNON CASTILLO WITH JENNY AND DAVID LOCKMILLER
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY HANDS ON! REGIONAL MUSEUM
TRICIA AND TUAN NUGYEN
ANDY MARQUART, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HANDS ON! REGIONAL MUSEUM
HEIDI AND SCOTT DULEBOHN
MICHELLE AND JEFF MARCHESSAULT
AMY SMITH AND REBECCA WHITE
SARAH AND RYAN PRESNELL
AMBER AND JAY KOONCE
MARK AND JULIA WILLIAMS
AMY AND TONY BENTON
WINONA AND SCOTT JENKINSON
WILL AND JESSICA BARRETT
CC MILHORN AND ANDREW BAXTER
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SEEN IN
JONESBOROUGH HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
SANTA AND HIS SLEIGH
LORETTA, MAVERICK, AND WHITNEY CLOYD
BOJANGLES
Jonesborough’s Annual
Christmas Parade PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
The town of Jonesborough held their annual Christmas Parade December 10, 2016. The parade began at 6pm, so that town can have a nighttime Christmas Parade. Area High School marching bands, church floats, civic organizations, and many more participated in the almost hour long parade.
FIFE CORPS
The parade was themed “Tennessee Christmas” and featured floats that depicted the best of what our state has to offer. The parade ended but the downtown fun was not over. Businesses stayed open for extended hours so that shoppers could enjoy the atmosphere and get some shopping done.
CROCKETT HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND
FOOD CITY CART
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DAKOTA REYNOLDS OF JONESBOROUGH REPARATORY THEATRE
BARKY OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY POSES WITH FIRE DEPARTMENT
SEEN IN
ABINGDON HEARTWOOD
PARIS BRADSTREET AND MAYOR BILL HARTLEY
DEBBIE AND MIKE QUILLEN
STEVE AND DEBBIE SMITH
“A Christmas Carol ” Opening Night & Gala PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Barter Theatre of Abingdon, VA presented a unique version of Charles Dickens’ timeless stor y, “A Christmas Carol”. Richard Rose, Artistic Director of Barter, adapted the classic to the delight of the audience. The spirit of the holiday season was present at the Gilliam Stage on the Opening Night. Prior to the performance, plaques were presented to Mike and Debbie Quillen and Steve and Debbie Smith for their work to raise the funds for improvement at Barter Theatre.
MATT SANDOE, JANA, AND CARLY RUTHERFORD
TILLIE SELLS AND EMMITT BREEDING
A gala was held after the performance at Heartwood. Guests enjoyed hor d’oeuvres and drinks while sharing the fun of the evening!
MATT MARTIN, HANNAH INGRAM, CATHERINE BUSH, BARRETT GUYTON, AND ZACCHAEUS KIMBRELL
PRESTON AND CRYSTAL BREEDING, RICHARD ROSE, WITH MELISSA AND JEFF GRAY
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ANDREA HUBBLE AND ALLISON MAYS FLORA AND HENRY JOY
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SEEN IN
ABINGDON OLD NORFOLK AND WESTERN PASSENGER DEPOT
ELEANOR GRASSELLI AND BETTY DUNCAN
CHARLIE BARNETTE AND MARTHA KEYS
Historical Society of Washington County Christmas Open House PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY APRIL BARNES
The Historical Society of Washington County, VA held their Christmas Open House on December 3rd. The public joined with Board members, volunteers and supporters for a festive start of the holiday season and the last celebration of the Society ’s Eightieth Anniversary year.
MARK HAGY AND CAROL HAWTHORNE-TAYLOR
CHARLES SEAVER
KAREN MCCLANAHAN WITH SANTA
LIBRARY COMMITTEE
Attendees enjoyed dulcimer music by Tammy Martin, appetizers and home-made spiced hot apple cider, visits with Santa, and general conviviality. An unplanned reunion of past and current members of the Library Committee provided a photo op and many hugs all around. The Society is currently soliciting funds for the purchase of a permanent facility to house its collections of Washington County history and provide an expanded research center for local and regional genealogical and historical research. For more information, call 276-623-8337 or Martha Keys (President) at 276-628-2987. www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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SEEN IN
BLOUNTVILLE NORTHEAST STATE’S WELLMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
NEHAL PATEL AND NICOLE HUGHES
JANET MATHER HOSTING THE PARTY
Clara’s Tea Party
MISTY KING WITH TREATS!
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Guests had a chance to meet Clara and her friends during this Tea Party of sweets, treats, and musical tunes. The event was sponsored by The Kingsport Ballet at Northeast State. Each guests had the opportunity to enjoy the delicious tea party, take photos with characters from the Ballet and take home a special keepsake. Violinists by Galina Timofeev provided holiday tunes for the event. After the tea party, the Ballet Company presented “The Nutcracker ” to a sold-out audience.
EVENT ORGANIZERS
GETTING TO MEET THE TOY SOLDIERS!
PARTY GOER AND MOUSE!
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VIOLINISTS BY GALINA TIMOFEEV
CLARA AND FRITZ
SO SWEET!
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
22nd Annual KOSBE
Awards Ceremony PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HEATH OWENS
Kingsport small business owners were rewarded for their proverbial jump off the entrepreneurial cliff at the 22nd annual Kingsport Office of Small Business Development & Entrepreneurship (KOSBE) Awards ceremony. Inaugurated in 1994, KOSBE is the Tri-Cities’ longest running and most recognized small business-focused awards program. Of 31 nominees, KOSBE named the 13 winners at the MeadowView Marriott Convention Center on Dec. 8, 2016. The ceremony featured keynote speaker Monica McCoy, founder of Monica Motivates and acting global director of strategy and innovation at the Coca-Cola Company, and entertainment from Samantha Gray Rhythm & Blues.
ALL 2016 CONTENDERS
McCoy opened the ceremony with entrepreneurial advice on cultivating winning partnerships. “It is critical for small business owners to understand their brand and the key value their brand brings to the table in a partnership,” said McCoy. “Whether they are a sole proprietor looking to bring someone into the business, or they are outsourcing work, or partnering with other brands, it’s important to know their own attributes, values, purpose, strengths and passions better than anyone.”
KEYNOTE SPEAKER MONICA MCCOY
AWARD WINNER - CROSSFIT MANIC
This year, on top of the KOSBE award itself, each award category winner had a chance to receive winner bonuses donated by other local businesses. These bonuses included $1,000 cash, a professionally directed and produced promotional video, a new logo design or makeover, social media assistance, mobile app development or free coworking space. In addition to naming customary business winners, KOSBE also recognized two individuals—Anissa Kittrell with the small business Impact Award and Sandra Brown with the Visit Kingsport Spirit of Hospitality Award. The Visit Kingsport Spirit of Hospitality Award was a new category addition in 2016, for an outstanding employee in the hospitality industry who has made an impact on the small business scene through referrals and support. Aundrea Wilcox, KOSBE Executive Director, said that this year’s event was about more than the awards. The highlight of her evening was awarding a deserving youth with a car and a platform for success.
AWARD WINNER - STORYBROOK FARMS B&B AND EVENTS
AWARD WINNER - HIBBERT DAVIS URBAN BREWS WITH SPONSOR - PRENDERGAST CONSTRUCTION
“In addition to handing out 13 awards, it was a privilege for KOSBE to provide a platform for giving wings—or wheels in this case—to a deserving youth,” said Wilcox. “Past KOSBE Award Winner and Sponsor Millennium Auto Collision Repairs gave away a car, and Hayworth Tire & Auto Services provided the new set of tires. These small business owners are an example, and showed us all that the night was not about what we get. It’s about what we give.” Awardees were determined via a competitive process including a judging panel. The 2016 KOSBE award winners are: Edwards Ragan and Associates, Business Excellence Under 10 Employees The First Lady Day Spa, Business Excellence 10+ Employees The Loafer, Best New Business Hibbert-Davis Urban/River Brews, Business with Multiple Stores Donny Reeves Eye Institute, Veteran-Owned Business Bellafina Chocolates, Small Manufacturing Storybrook Farm B & B and Events, Woman-Owned Business Are You Puzzled, Innovation Award The Bagel Exchange, Gazelle Award Begley Fitness/CrossFit Manic, Young Entrepreneur Award Fanatics 101, Philanthropic Award Anissa Kittrell, IMPACT Award Sandra Brown, Visit Kingsport Spirit of Hospitality Award www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
AWARD WINNER - CROSSFIT MANIC WITH SPONSOR - F & L LIMO AND LIVERY
AWARD WINNER - THE LOAFER
ADITI BHAVE, MONICA MCCOY, AUNDREA WILCOX, AND KATIE PRENDERGAST
AWARD WINNER - ARE YOU PUZZLED? WITH SPONSOR - PATIENT SCRUBS
AWARD WINNER - THE BAGEL EXCHANGE WITH SPONSOR - PATHWAY LENDING
ENJOYING THE 2016 KOSBE AWARDS
AWARD WINNER - FANATICS 101 WITH SPONSOR - PHIL’S DREAM PIT
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AWARD WINNER - EDWARDS RAGAN AND ASSOCIATES
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AWARD WINNER - BELLAFINA CHOCOLATES
HOSPITALITY AWARD WINNER - SANDRA BROWN
AWARD WINNER - REEVES EYE INSTITUTE WITH SPONSOR - TCMAC
ALL 2016 AWARD WINNERS
WINNER - FIRST LADY DAY SPA WITH SPONSOR - CUMBERLAND MARKETING
IMPACT AWARD WINNER - ANISSA KITTRELL NOMINATOR - CASSANDRA HONAKER
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY LIBATION STATION
JIM RHINEHART AND BRAD PETERSON
RUSTY LITTLE AND JASON WALLS
TOM HUDDLESTON AND SAM HUDDLESTON
Toast Across America PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY BECKY RAMSEY
Libation Station’s Ligero Cigar Lounge held its Annual Toast Across America event December 7, 2016. Ligero is a platinum sponsor of the event. Ligero members were able to attend this exclusive event which raised over $5,000 for the Fuente Cigar family school in Dominican Republic.
ROB SAMPSON, DAVID LUDWIG, AND JOEY NICHOLS
JOHN HENDRICK, JIM WOODS, JOHN WILLIAMS, AND SAM HUDDLESTON
Toast Across America first debuted in 2003. This fundraiser brings together fine tobacconists, and cigar enthusiasts all over the world including right here in East Tennessee. Every dollar raised by Toast Across America goes straight to help the children and families of the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation. A special thank you to all the Ligero members that donated to the Toast Across America fundraiser.
PERRY QUALLS AND BRAD PETERSON
SHEILA AND RUSTY LITTLE
BOB SHIVELY, RAFAEL ZABALA, AND JIM BARRY
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SEEN IN
SEEN IN
JACOB’S NATURE PARK AT SINKING CREEK
MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
JOHNSON CITY
KINGSPORT
Jacob’s Nature Trail Bridge
Ribbon Cutting PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Jacob Francisco once told his parents he would be famous one day. The little boy, who loved nature, didn’t get the chance to grow up and be famous. Jacob lost his life when he was six years old to an unknown source of E-Coli bacteria. Thanks to the tireless work of his family, in his community, Jacob is indeed, famous. Jacob’s father Bill Francisco has spent years honoring his son by educating the public on the dangers of E-Coli in food and water, helping to identify dangerous sources of contamination, and building a nature park and bridge for children of all ages to enjoy the nature that fascinated Jacob. Jacob’s Nature Park at Sinking Creek involved the generosity of the community, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, TDOC Carter County Work Camp, the City of Johnson City, ETSU and many others to develop this educational nature park. On November 4, 2016 representatives from the agencies involved in the project gathered at the bridge to cut the ribbon and open it up for the public to use. The Francisco family will continue to work with the Boone Watershed Partnership, Inc. making progress to the nature park. Bill Francisco says the park is a perfect legacy for how his son lived: exploring, learning, and caring.
2016 KINGSPORT CHAMBER CHAIR, CEEGEE MCCORD PRESENTING LIFETIME MEMBER AWARD TO LELAND LEONARD
2016 KINGSPORT CHAMBER CHAIR, CEEGEE MCCORD, PASSING THE GAVEL TO 2017 KINGSPORT CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR, STEPHEN LAHAIR
State of Your Kingsport Chamber Holiday Breakfast PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
The Kingsport Chamber celebrated another remarkable year filled with numerous accomplishments at its State of Your Kingsport Chamber Holiday Breakfast at the MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort & Convention Center. More than 300 Kingsport Chamber members and business and civic leaders attended the event to hear about some of the Kingsport Chamber ’s many achievements from 2016 and plan ahead for what promises to be an amazing 2017 in which the city will mark its centennial. Outgoing Kingsport Chamber chair CeeGee McCord, global public and community affairs director with Eastman, ceremoniously passed the Kingsport Chamber gavel to the incoming chair, Stephen LaHair, co-owner of Chef ’s Pizzeria. For more information on the Kingsport Chamber, go to KingsportChamber.org or call (423) 392-8800. We’re social too; follow us on our Facebook page, Your Kingsport Chamber, and on our Twitter account, @kptchamber.
LELAND LEONARD AND FAMILY
ROGER BLAKELY DIRECTOR OF JOHNSON CITY PARKS & REC
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JOSHUA AND BILL FRANCISCO ON THE BRIDGE
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BUSINESSES IN KINGSPORT TURNING 100 NEXT YEAR CELEBRATING WITH A CAKE WITH 100 CANDLES
SEEN IN
BRISTOL HILTON GARDEN INN
JAYCE AND SHERRY FUSS
ALLISON, RANDALL, AND ARIA EGAN
KRISTEN AND SADIE EVANS
Breakfast with Santa PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY APRIL BARNES
AVA SNYDER, WITH ELI AND ELLIE RAGAN
ODIN AND CHELSIE NELSON
More than 150 children and their parents enjoyed a wonderful morning eating Breakfast with Santa. This event took place at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bristol. The children enjoyed getting their picture with Santa and also enjoyed a reading of The Night Before Christmas, and participated in cookie decorating. In conjunction with the event members of the community could purchase baked goods provided by Imagination Library for Washington County and Bristol Virginia. The bake sale was also co-sponsored by LEAD Bristol and the Hilton. All of the funds raised went to support the efforts to help local children foster the love of reading. The Imagination Library for Washington County and Bristol Virginia is a non-profit organization dedicated to making quality literature available to all children from birth through their fifth birthday. They aim to promote early childhood literacy and increase proficiency upon entry into the local educational systems.
DANIELLE STARNES, JENNIFER HURT, BILLIE ASHLEY, AND BUCKEY BOONE
LEAD BRISTOL VOLUNTEERS
SANTA READING TO THE CHILDREN
KANNON AND KONLEY COUNTS
ALI-JO, KENDALL, AND MADDUX
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BRISTOL TRAIN STATION
Hill and Dale Garden Club Christmas Luncheon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY APRIL BARNES
The Hill and Dale Garden Club hosted their Annual Christmas Luncheon and Auction on December 8th at the Bristol Train Station. Hundreds of Ladies from the community were invited to join members for a wonderful lunch and participate in an auction filled with wonderful items to bid on. All of the funds raised from this event will go towards beautification efforts throughout the community sponsored by the Garden Club.
RUTH KELLER, KAREN BOONE, BETTY MCGLOTHLIN, AND NANCY FLICK
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SHIRLEY CARRIER, BECKY MATNEY, AND MACKENZIE CARRIER
ALLISON FERRANTE, BONNIE LISKEY, AND ANN WOODS
NANCY HYDE AND JEANIE FULLER
SEEN IN
JONESBOROUGH THE BLACKTHORN CLUB
ANNE HASTON AND HUSBAND, MAJOR GENERAL MAX HASTON
DON KNIGHT VICE PRESIDENT, HONOR FLIGHT
93 YEAR OLD WWII VETERAN VERN DAUTREY
Mortgage Bankers Association 1st Annual Honoring Veterens PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
The Mortgage Bankers Association joined together on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at the Blackthorn Club to honor those industry members, including realtors, appraisers, home inspectors, and lenders, who have served our country.
REPRESENTATIVE TIMOTHY HILL
Representative Timothy Hill, Senator Jon Lundberg, Congressman Phil Roe’s office John Abe Teague, District Director, Major General Max Haston and his wife, Anne, Kim Richards, President, Mortgage Bankers Assn, Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, Senator Steve Southerland, Representative Bud Hulsey, Representative John Holsclaw, Representative David Hawk, and David Hamilton were among those seated at the head table to honor our local veterans. Major General Max Haston, US Army National Guard addressed the guests and gave a quick history lesson of the formation of the Tennessee National Guard which was quite informative. Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey addressed the guests next by sharing his appreciation of support during his tenure at Lt. Governor. Ron Knight, Vice President of Honor Flight discussed their Mission: To transport America’s Veterans to Washington, DC to visit those memorials dedicated to honor the service and sacrifices of themselves and their friends. Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created solely to honor America’s veterans for all their sacrifices. We transport our heroes to Washington, D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials. Top priority is given to the senior veterans – World War II survivors, along with those other veterans who may be terminally ill.
MORTGAGE BANKER ASSOCIATION’S VETERAN HONOREES
Of all of the wars in recent memory, it was World War II that truly threatened our very existence as a nation—and as a culturally diverse, free society. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, an estimated 640 WWII veterans die each day. Our time to express our thanks to these brave men and women is running out. 93 year old Vern Dautrey, WWII US Army veteran provided the most enlightening and entertaining description of his role in WWII. Eighteen veterans, from all branches of the military were recognized and given special handmade gifts in honor of their services.
MORTGAGE BANKER ASSOCIATION BOARD
LT. GOVERNOR RON RAMSEY
Special thanks goes out to the Mortgage Bankers Association sponsors: BTVAR, Eastman Credit Union, Evergreen Title and Closing LLC, NE Tennessee Association of Realtors, Regions Mortgage, State Farm, and SunTrust Mortgage. www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT CIVIC AUDITORIUM
STACY BURKE DID SOME SHOPPING!
JACOB SHEARER REPRESENTING ARTIST, JOHN TRAVERS
Christmas Connection PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts presented the 37th Annual Christmas Connection on the weekend of November 11-13. The event was held at the Civic Auditorium, with free admission to the public. The festival featured the region’s best arts and crafts vendors. The auditorium was full with baked goods, home-made clothing, floral arrangements, jewelry, pottery, wood working, pottery, and Christmas decorations. It was a great start to the holiday season and an opportunity to support local craftsmen by finding unique items to purchase!
BROCK TIERNEY AND HIS CREATIONS, “CANNED CONVERSATION”
DORIS ORR
BARB KOTCHEVAR AND PENNY HAGY
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ROBIN HILLMAN
ROSLYN LADUKE AND CATHI BURCHFIELD
MARY PREWETT
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT
State Theatre Company presents
ALLANDALE PAVILION
Romeo & Juliet ShakesBEER
MATTIE KATE GILLIAM, AMBER LIGHT, DARIN MALONE, AND ASHLI BUJAK
BRANDON STANBROUGH (FRIAR LAURENCE)
ASHLEY MAY KING AND ZACHARY STARNES
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The State Theatre Company presented a slightly different version of Romeo & Juliet during the late hours of November 5th. The setting was the outdoor pavilion of Allandale Mansion. Temperatures were low, so the crowd was dressed warmly and huddled under blankets. The work by William Shakespeare was adapted and directed by Cameron Hite. The setting was a small Appalachian town and the theme included secret rendezvous, mysterious vials, and untimely deaths. For the late night showing, a drinking game was incorporated for the audience and the cast. Sleepy Owl Brewery provided signature drinks for the “Montagues” and the “Capulets”.
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JONATHAN TAYLOR (SLEEPY OWL BREWERY)
CAMERON HITE
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
ETSU PRESIDENT BRIAN NOLAND WELCOMES ATTENDEES TO THE ETSU VETERAN’S DAY CEREMONY.
THE LOCAL CHAPTER OF THE ROLLING THUNDER WAS PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY.
Veteran’s Day Memorial Ceremony PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HEATH OWENS
Veterans, active and retired, ETSU students, faculty and members of the community could be seen gathered around the ETSU Veteran’s Memorial during the annual Veteran’s Day ceremony. LIEUTENANT COLONEL GLEN HOWIE INTRODUCES THE CEREMONY’S GUEST SPEAKER, COLONEL JEFFERY MORGAN.
The ceremony, held on Friday, Nov. 11, was hosted by the Veteran’s Affairs Standing Committee, the Student Veterans of America and the ETSU Department of Military Science. The program was commenced with opening remarks from ETSU President Brian Noland, who shared that there are 381 veteran students enrolled in the university this academic year. Noland then handed the preceding over to Lieutenant Colonel Glen Howie, professor of Military Science at ETSU. Howie asked all veterans who were seated in the public audience to stand and be recognized, distinguishing them from the other servicemen/women in uniform. This was met with rapturous applause from ETSU students and faculty who were observing the program. Howie then introduced the ceremony’s guest speaker, Colonel Jeffery Morgan.
COLONEL JEFFERY MORGAN IS A GRADUATE OF ETSU’S QUILLEN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND HAS SERVED IN VARIOUS CAPACITIES AS A MEDICAL OFFICER.
Colonel Morgan is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and an alumnus of ETSU’s Quillen College of Medicine, a degree which he says shaped his entire military career. He also holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Duke University. Morgan has served in various capacities as a medical officer, including Womack Army Medical Center in Fort Bragg, North Carolina; chief of the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation at Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood, Texas; and Diving Medical Officer with the Special Forces Underwater Operations School in Key West, Florida. Morgan’s overseas postings include Heidelberg, Germany, and the 101st Airborne Division during Operation Desert Storm. The ceremony concluded with a dedication of a wreath to the Veteran’s Memorial by the ETSU Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and music provided by the university ’s marching band and University School chorus.
THE ETSU ROTC DEDICATED A WREATH ONTO THE VETERAN’S MEMORIAL ON CAMPUS WHILE TAPS WAS BEING PLAYED.
“Our world, our nation and our military are in some trying times. The wars that we fight and the way we fight them are always changing and will continue to,” said Morgan. “But the sentiment and the spirit of the American military has always been the same, and will never falter.”
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY BOWMAN JEWELERS
Bowman Jewelers Holiday After Hours Event PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ANGELA BAKER
Once again, Bowman Jeweler ’s partnered with the Johnson City Chamber to host a holiday after hour ’s event that was an incredible success! The store was filled with people full of holiday cheer as they created their Christmas wish list at their favorite jewelr y store. They ser ved fabulous food; Larr y England poured glasses of wine for the guest and ever yone waited for the historically popular door prize drawing. Bowman Jewelers was established in 1927 by Robert W. Bowman and Mrs. Janelle Bowman in Downtown Johnson City. Currently Bowman’s is owned and operated by the third generation Robert W. Bowman III and Linda Bowman O’Dell. As a third-generation family business, they are committed to continue the legacy. At Bowman Jewelers, jewelr y is their passion and that passion is most evident when you visit their showroom now located at 2111 North Roan Street in Johnson City, Tennessee.
DAVID MEREDITH, CANDY STIELER, BERNIE MOSELEY, AND CHUCK STIELER
KATIE REID, LINDA BOWMAN, PAM KELLER, AND SHARRON KENNEDY
DEBBIE ENGLAND AND TINA MCNEIL
KAITLEN KIGER HELPING BIANCA, JOSH, ISABELLA, AND OLIVE DAVIS
BOWMANS JEWELERS’ AMAZING STAFF
KIM BLAINE AND DAVID PENNINGTON
SEEN IN
BLOUNTVILLE THE OUTDOORSMEN
CHRIS AND HAYTER REYNOLDS
BRADLEY RICHARDS AND SHA’TARA COOPER
9th Annual Christmas
Benefit Dinner PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The 9th Annual Christmas Benefit Dinner was held on December 3rd at The Outdoorsmen. The event was sponsored by Hunger First. The dinner was free to the public, but donations were accepted. A silent auction, a live auction, and a raffle were also held during the dinner. Musical entertainment was provided by Southern Rebellion (and Howard Reynolds!). HOWARD REYNOLDS, ALEX QUILLEN, MICHAEL GILLIS, AND HOMER HOOKER
The funds raised from the dinner will help provide Christmas gifts for local families and their children. Howard Reynolds, the organizer of the event, had a lot of family members, friends, and community sponsors helping to make the event successful.
AMANDA AND CHELSEY STINNETTE, ETHEL AND REBEKAH REYNOLDS, AND TRISH BOSWELL
LARRY MCCALL AND THE REYNOLDS FAMILY
MADISON, REGINA, AND ERICK BRIZENDINE
SOUTHERN REBELLION
BARBARA BERRY AND KATLYN POPE
STEPHANIE MCKENLEY AND KATHY BUNCHE
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SEEN IN
JONESBOROUGH VISITOR’S CENTER
Holiday Tour & Tea PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Jonesborough decked the halls at some of their most beloved homes by participating in The Holiday Tour and Tea which started at the Visitor ’s Center. The Deiderick Home owned by Nansee and Bill Williams that mixed Victorian era décor with a warm Christmas feel was among the homes on the tour.
KAREN CHILDRESS IN HER KITCHEN (PATTON HOME)
NANSEE WILLIAMS
PAM MILLER
DEADERICK HOUSE DINING ROOM
The Patton home of Karen Childress had the feel of children all around with toys in bedrooms and a train downstairs. Karen Childress also filled her home with baskets from Boone Street Market, a non-profit store for local farmers and artisans. The Chester Inn was decked out in the Victorian 1800’s décor; guests were also treated to information about how the holidays were done back then. The mantles were covered in greenery and citrus fruit. Pineapples and oranges were signs of wealth, as it was quite difficult to get citrus fruit. The Rhein House and Jackson Church both offered beautiful and simple style with the poinsettia trees and Christmas trees. A favorite of the tour was the Earnest home owned by Pam Miller. The beautiful style both indoors and outside made for a home one could clearly tell was loved by its owner and filled with Christmas magic.
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY JOHNSON CITY COUNTRY CLUB
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
EMILY JONES AND AUDIA LACY
BROOKE AND ALEX HUDDLESTON
The Johnson City Country Club welcomed guests to a Winter Wonderland celebration on New Year’s Eve. Those welcoming in the New Year at the club began their adventure as they turned onto Country Club Drive and were greeted with a drive through beautiful tea lights that broke through the cold and rainy night. Inside was a welcoming wintery scene done in whites, silvers, and wintery branches decorating the entire club. Every room offered a variety of food and beverages for the guests to feast upon while they danced their way out of 2016 to the sounds of Spirit of Soul, a local band they played a variety of great hits.
STEPHANIE OUTZS, MICHELLE SOMICH, AND KIM HALL
KAITLYN KINCER AND FREDDY LOCKETT
CAROL HICKS, CELESTE EVERSOLE, AND SYDNEY BROADHEAD
MAX AND TERRI MIETH
Many danced the night away, while others were content just gathering around friends for conversation and fun. The party was open for both members and non-members; the club says a Valentine’s Day event is the next big event. More information can be found on the Johnson City Country Club website. 78
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY THE KING CENTRE
STEPHEN CALLAHAN OWNER OF TENNESSEE HILLS DISTILLERY, ASHLEIGH JACKSON, AND JASON LILLEY
BRANDON AND BRITTANY FARMER, WITH MACI AND ANDREW FERGUSON
JEFFREY AND PATTY
PROHIBITION for the Paws PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ASHLEIGH JACKSON
It isn’t often that you enter a room full of women dressed as flappers and men in pinstripe suits carrying canes and fake cigars. However, pearls, sequins, and feathers came in plentiful amounts at the first annual Prohibition for the Paws event. ROZALYN AND CASSIE
MICHAEL AND STACI MOORE
Tennessee Hills Distillery partnered with the Johnson City Animal Shelter to put on the first annual Prohibition for the Paws. The money raised for the event directly benefited the animals in the local animal shelter. With the proceeds, necessary items such as food, blankets, medicines/vaccines, and even spay and neutering costs were able to be purchased. The event was truly one of a kind and featured Prohibition style cocktails and a specialty brew, great hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, and a silent auction. There was also a live jazz band that kept people on the dance floor just like in the roaring twenties.
JAMES, KELSEY, CHARLIE, AND AMY
LISA CHILDRESS
Tennessee Hills Distillery is located in the historic Salt House Building in Downtown Jonesborough, TN. They offer tours of their local distillery where visitors can witness the fermentation and distillation process, packaging and bottling, as well as a free tasting bar. For more information visit their Facebook page or call 423-788-9105.
CODY T, SUZIE, ROBERT, KRISTI, DAVE, MISTY, LEE, CANDICE, AND JASON
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VIPBEAUTY
Elegant High Bun BY SHERRI JESSEE
Section out fringe from temple to temple and then smooth the hair into a pony tail high on the head.
Tease a small section of Kankelon hair.
Attach the hair pad at the crown.
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Create a “bungee “ with two bobby pins and a small rubber band.
Put the teased synthetic hair in a hair net.
Lightly tease the ponytail and smooth back over the bun pad.
Pin to secure.
Direct the pony tail forward and secure with the bungee.
Wrap the hairnet to create a hair pad. Hair pads are perfect to create fullness in a shape.
Smooth fringe area and sweep to the back.
Pin to secure.
Spray with NEVO SUPER SHAPE for HOLD
Hair & Makeup: Sherri Jessee Photo: Nathan Mays Model: Melanie Blankenship
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY FREEDOM HALL
Electric 94.9’s
Acoustic Christmas
PRESENTED BY GRINDSTAFF KIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN MAYS | STORY BY ANGELA BAKER
2016’s Electric 94.9 FM Acoustic Christmas Concert presented by Grindstaff Kia in Johnson City was held December 16th at Freedom Hall in Johnson City, TN. This year ’s Acoustic Christmas concert included a star-studded list of headline performers such as Charlie Puth, Nelly, Jake Miller, JoJo and Gnash to entertain the masses! Grindstaff Kia, the presenting sponsor of this highly popular annual event, puts a great deal of emphasis on being active and involved in our community. Steve and Ashley are known for their giving spirit all year long but they are especially generous during the holiday season. This year the nonprofit they selected to receive a large $10,000 check during Acoustic Christmas was the Backpacks For Kids Program also known as Food for Kids. Food for Kids is a collaborative effort between Second Harvest and an ever-increasing number of public schools within the food bank’s 18-county service area. The program is designed to provide healthy, easily prepared food to some of the most vulnerable children in our community – children who may be missing meals on a regular basis. Teachers at each school compile a list of kids in their classroom who they feel are at risk of hunger. In addition to simply telling their teachers they are going hungr y, many kids are observed hoarding food from the lunchroom, taking food from other children’s trays, and even taking food trashcans in order to have something to eat after school and over the weekends. These children are discreetly given a backpack full of food for themselves (and any siblings they may have at home) every Friday throughout the school year. Reports of improved selfesteem, behavior and concentration among Food for Kids participants are common. Electric 94.9 FM’s Acoustic Christmas Concert is a great local event to which just about everyone here in the Tri-Cities area looks forward. We can’t wait to hear who they will bring to Johnson City this year!
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT FARMER’S MARKET
JULIANNA EDMISTEN AND LYNDSEY BRUNDRIT
EMILIE PARK AND DEBBIE WAGGONER
Gangster Gala
PHANTOM ENTERTAINMENT
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Junior League of Kingsport hosted their 2nd Annual Gangster Gala on Friday, November 4th. Attendees dressed in their finest 1920’s attire and enjoyed an evening of dinner, dancing and more! Musical entertainment was provided by Phantom Entertainment. Silent and live auctions were held to raise money for the projects of Junior League. All proceeds from the event will benefit a variety of programs and projects supported by Junior League of Kingsport that positively impacts women and children across the greater Kingsport area.
JIM AND MEGAN VERRAGIN
NATALIE TACKETT WITH BROTHER, ANDREW
JOHN AND KATHERINE HOFFMAN, WITH CYNTHIA AND DAVID WOODMANSEE
JEN AND MATT RUECKERT
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LOVE AND BRIAN HOBSON
ASHLEY COOPER AND KATIE FALCONER
STEPHANIE LYONS, JILL MAYHEW, AND MEGAN MILLER
TRULY – A GOOD TIME! TRICIA AND SCOTT TAYLOR, BRENDA AND BOB EDMISTEN, SANDRA AND PAUL PENLAND
GINNY ERVIN, CARY BOGGS, AND ASHLEY TAYLOR
SEEN IN
ABINGDON
Mistletoe Market
HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Shoppers flocked to the Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon, Virginia for a great start to holiday shopping. The Mistletoe Market opens for a weekend once each year as a fundraiser for the William King Museum of Art. Even the museum staff got into the act as Callie Hietela, curator of the museum, was decked out as an elf to bring cheer to the shoppers. Several booths from local to online and catalog business set up booths throughout the center. Many offered the chance for shoppers to taste or try the products they were offering.
BETSY WHITE (DIRECTOR, WILLIAM KING) AND JOHN LENTZ (WILLIAM KING BOARD PRESIDENT)
DAVE AND SCHERY COLLINS
Mistletoe Gala
Muscadine grape juices, dips, olive oils, chocolate treats, teas, even barbeque sauce was available. Many essential oils, books, Lula Roe clothing, Tupperware, and other catalog order companies were there. Other favorites were the local businesses like Abingdon Olive Oil Company, The Old Hollywood Fur Salon, Lavelle fashions, Bear and Friends, and Chocolate Elegance that were also at the market to show off their wares. Most all of the booth owners say they have some form of online presence, so, if you were at the market and didn’t get to purchase that great item, or loved it so much you need to order more, you can find them on social media and online.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Before the annual Mistletoe Market begins at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, a Gala is held for those who want to get a sneak peak, or to get first dibs on some of the amazing products available. The Gala and the Mistletoe Market are the largest fundraisers for the William King Museum of Art. It is one of the best ways to start the holiday shopping season! David Collins delighted guests with his musical talent, and everyone had a chance to visit with Santa to give him their wish lists, many of those items could be found at the market. Gala Committee member Marilyn Miller is a VIP in her own right, she made sure everyone at the gala had what they needed. She was also the person to ask about all the great products at the market, from the local olive oil company in Abingdon to furniture from Lebanon, antique jewelry and furs, new fashions for both comfort and couture, Miss Marilyn knew where to find it. The Gala led to the opening of Mistletoe Market that opened through Sunday November 6th.
PAM KRAMER, MARILYN MILLER, RHONDA HURT, AND ESTELLA GILMER (GALA COMMITTEE) WITH SANTA
KAREN AND ESTELLA GILMER
MARILYN MILLER AND FRIENDS
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EVEN THE ELVES SHOP AT THE MISTLETOE MARKET
OLD HOLLYWOOD FUR SALON
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS...
LAVELLE DESIGNS
PETALS AND LACE
SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
SANTA AND HIS “SLEIGH”!
ALYSSA HARE AND NOAH WHITE FINISHED THE RACE!
LAUREN BERRY AND LINDA MOODY
6th Annual
SUBWAY Speedway
in lights 5k PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
On Sunday, November 13th, the Bristol Motor Speedway hosted the 6th annual SUBWAY Speedway in Lights 5K. A large crowd gathered for this preholiday event presented by Fleet Feet Sports and the speedway. Over 1,000 runners/walkers completed the race. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Speedway Children’s Charities. Runners and walkers adorned their finest Christmas attire and enjoyed running the course under the full moon, while enjoying the Speedway in Lights decorations. Santa led the course in his “pace sleigh”.
SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER!
BECCA, WES, AND DAKOTA WAITES
SANTA AND HIS REINDEERS (AND AN ELF!)
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT DOWNTOWN KINGSPORT
MISS SULLIVAN COUNTY
ABBY BRIGHT
Kingsport’s Annual
Christmas Parade PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Santa came to Kingsport on the train, but paraded through the streets while riding on a local fire truck! The parade, hosted by Leadership Kingsport, was held on the downtown streets of Kingsport on Saturday, November 19th. The weather was cold and windy, but children and adults bundled up to see Santa, local bands, and community organizations usher in the Christmas season. The parade was sponsored by @ Work Personnel Services, Elite Manufacturing and Professional Services, GAAM Wealth Advisors and Kingsport Town Planner.
ROBINSON DANCE TEAM
MISS KINGSPORT TEEN
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SANTA CATCHES A RIDE!
NUTCRACKER DANCERS
STAYING WARM!
NORTH HIGH SCHOOL BAND MEMBERS
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CHANNEL 5!
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
JEANNIE AND BRIAN MILLER
LORI PAYNE AND ETTA CLARK
JEFF WILLIAMS, WITH SAVANNA AND SCOTT MCDAVID
Kingsport Chamber
Holiday After Hours PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELA BAKER AND ANGELICA ARES | STORY SUBMITTED
RICK STAPLETON AND JOHN JEWETT
ERNIE RUMSBY AND CHELSIE GREGORY
Your Kingsport Chamber welcomed in the Christmas season at its annual Holiday After Hours at the MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort & Convention Center. Co-hosted by MeadowView and the Barter Theatre, more than 125 people enjoyed great food, fellowship and holiday cheer. MeadowView highlighted a remarkable 2016 for the globalwinning resort and Barter Theatre previewed its Christmas shows and showcased an amazing 2017 lineup of great shows and musicals at this outstanding theatre. For more information, visit KingsportChamber.org.
MICHELLE BOLLING, JANUARY TANKERSLEY, JANE RASAR, GINNY JENKINS, DONNA BAKER, AND RHONDA GIVENS
NIKKI FRAZIER AND RHONDA FOX
BOB FEAGINS, WITH LAURA WOODS AND JASON HENCY
KINGSPORT MAYOR JOHN CLARK AND MILES BURDINE
STELLA ROBINETTE, TANIYHA PHILLIPS, AND CHAIBA BLOOMER
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY FOUNTAIN SQUARE ON BUFFALO STREET
CLAYTON STOUT
BECKY BUCHANAN (CITY COMMUNICATIONS DIR.) AND JENNY BROCK (COMMISSIONER)
ITIS CHORUS AS WHOVILLIANS
Johnson City’s
Annual Christmas
Tree Lighting PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Singers dressed as Whoville residents, the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and Santa were all featured as part of the Johnson City Christmas tree lighting held at Fountain Square on Buffalo Street.
TIMBRA ALDERIDGE AND ABBY EDWARDS
GRINCH AND CINDY LOU WHO
The Indian Trail Intermediate School chorus provided music, and WJHL’s Josh Smith was emcee for the event that was broadcast live. Mayor Clayton Stout read a proclamation for the ceremony. Several of the children attending then gathered at the plunger to push it down and ignite the tree with glowing Christmas lights. The event was not without problems. The Grinch tried to ruin the fun of those getting in the holiday spirit, but a visit from Cindy Lou Who brought back his Christmas spirit. ITMS chorus then gathered around the tree like true whovillians and sang for all to see. Santa spent time with the children who shared their lists and excitement to see him the following day in the annual Christmas parade.
WHITNEY SHELTON, WILLIAM SHELTON, FORMER JC MAYOR JANE MYRON, AND CYMPHANIE SHERMAN
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AMBER HAMMONTREE, TIFFANI CARRASCO, AND SAMANTHA
SEEN IN
GREG GOUGE, DEBRA SUE, AND CINDY MINTON
JOHNSON CITY
FOUNDATION TITLE & ESCROW
CENTER FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AT ETSU
SAVANNA MCDAVID AND JODY MARIE JONES
Foundation Title & Escrow Open House PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Foundation Title & Escrow opened up to community members during a recent open house held in their new location on Bristol Highway in Johnson City. Local lenders, realtors, and business executives gathered in the beautiful space to enjoy refreshments and meet the team members of Foundation Title & Escrow. The Minton Family band provided entertainment for guests. You could see the joy of Danny, along with children Jesse, Erin, and Garrett as they played multiple instruments and delighted their mother, Cindy, who works at Foundation Title & Escrow. Cindy Minton, Savanna McDavid, Stephanie Kirk, and Debra Anderson say the business is innovative title insurance agency that strives to provide caring and better service to bring peace of mind and happiness to clients. Foundation hopes that the human touch and sincerity will set their business apart from the others. Foundation Title & Escrow is headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee.
TUAN NGUYEN, JIM GRIFFIN, AND GREGG PEARLMAN
FOUNDATION TITLE & ESCROW STAFF (DEBRA ANDERSON, STEPHANIE KIRK, CINDY MINTON, AND SAVANNA MCDAVID)
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY
P.J. BAILY AND PATTI WAYMIRE
RUNNERS GETTING THEIR TIMES
THE SMALLEST VOLUNTEERS HANDING OUT WATER TO THE RACERS
ETSU Homecoming 5K PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
East Tennessee State University kicked off Homecoming 2016 with a 5K run walk. The race was held at the Campus Recreation at ETSU Center for Physical Activity (CPA) and the funds raised from the race go to support ETSU’s Child Study Center. A small obstacle course was set up to entertain kids at the event that were not participating, and the children loved crawling through the tunnels and some found that rolling down the small hill was a blast. Volunteers from both the CPA and the CSC were on hand registering, timing, and providing water and after race snacks. Some of the CSC’s adorable students also volunteered, handing out water to those finishing the race/walk. Medals were given for overall winner, top male and female, and top in each age group. Overall winner was Claire Gleadhill and overall male was Tom Ecay.
STARTING LINE
CLAIRE GLEADHILL, WINNER OF THE RACE
TOM ECAY IS NOT FAR BEHIND
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
CONGRESSMAN PHIL ROE, JILL SALYERS (STAFF SEN. BOB CORKER), AND MILES BURDINE
KINGSPORT MAYOR JOHN CLARK
TCMAC PRESIDENT ERNIE RUMSBY
George Chmiel Run Across America Press Conference PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
George Chmiel is the founder of Oz Sports Group and an accomplished endurance runner. He is running a total of 3,002 miles through 14 states across the country to benefit the Guardian for Heroes Foundation started by famed American Sniper Chris Kyle. On December 20, 2016 he made a short stop in Kingsport where he met local combat warriors Ken Lane, Josh Hall, and Russ Hubbard. Hall and Hubbard were both wounded in in combat and are participating in a documentary being filmed about the run.
VETERANS JOSH HALL, KENNETH LANE, AND RUSS HUBBARD
Several local supporters of Veteran’s issues were in attendance. Miles Burdine, CEO of the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce and fellow Veteran, Congressman Phil Roe, Mayor John Clark and Ernie Rumsby, President of the Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council were all there to speak and show support for Chmiel’s run. “It’s a great thing to see and experience. We appreciate everything he is doing to support our Veterans” said Ernie Rumsby. The public was invited to run a leg of his journey. Those interested in following along on his Run Across America can visit beastmodeforthebrave.org.
GEORGE CHMIEL
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MILES BURDINE, CONGRESSMAN PHIL ROE, MAYOR JOHN CLARK, GEORGE CHMIEL, AND ERNIE RUMSBY
SEEN IN
ELIZABETHTON MILLIGAN COLLEGE’S GREGORY CENTER
Songfest 2016 PHOTOGRAPHY ELLEN WALLEN | STORY BY ALISON SMITH
The East Tennessee State University Old Time Pride Band, Ed Snodderly and Friends, and Lightnin’ Charlie performed at Milligan College’s Gregory Center on November 13 for the Annual Songfest Concert benefitting Family Promise of Greater Johnson City. Thanks to generous sponsorships including Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union, Harman Ice, MSHA, and Wise Property Solutions, the concert was free to all guests. All proceeds from donations to the concert benefitted Family Promise, a ministry that helps homeless families with children retain their self-sufficiency. Through the support of the more than 50 churches and the services provided by the case managers, families are able to achieve self-sufficiency and move into homes of their own.
When asked about the chance to help Family Promise through his performance at Songfest this year, Lightnin’ Charlie said, “Family Promise is the kind of organization I want to be associated with. They are ‘in the trenches’ so to speak, making a difference for families in need every day. This is where ‘the rubber meets the road’, and I couldn’t be more pleased to be a part of helping these folks and the families they serve.” For more information, contact Alison Smith at (423) 794-7500
VIPSEEN
TYING THE KNOT
FRUGAL OR FINANCIALLY
FIT?
STORY BY LARK ADAMS
E
very now and again, I will remember a flash of something from a long ago college class and I will realize that maybe I did absorb a bit more from my college experience than I originally thought I did. Often, when I think about money matters, I remember taking Personal Finance during my junior year, an “Easy A” elective course at Virginia Tech that attempted to instill a sense of personal responsibility in young college students regarding their financial decisions. I distinctly remember the professor saying, “If you only take one thing away from this course, it is that you should always pay yourself first.” What does it mean to “pay yourself first?” We are talking about savings, of course. Bills will always exist. We need to pay for our homes, our cars, utility bills, and the food we consume on a daily basis. But what fluctuates is how much we have left over for emergencies, or extras such as entertainment, or even simply that designer cup of coffee. Sometimes, after all the big, standard bills are paid, there isn’t much left for your future financial self. If you get in the habit of allotting money towards savings, an emergency fund, and retirement, you won’t have to worry as much about the future and how it will be financed. Having money available for unexpected bills such as a major car repair, provides essential peace of mind and keeps things running smoothly on all fronts if a large chunk of money has to be diverted suddenly to something unforeseen. In addition, you could also use savings for a distant financial goal such as a fun vacation or a big purchase such as a new piece of electronic equipment. One of the best ways to accumulate savings is to “Set it, and forget it.” Try to set up direct deposit type transactions that take place before the money even lands in your checking account. These can be into an account set aside as an emergency fund, pure savings, to a retirement account, etc., and this can be done as a set amount or a percentage, something particularly helpful if your income fluctuates monthly or quarterly.
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Also, always try to find the best deal possible on purchases, especially large ones. Sometimes just a quick Internet search for the item you want plus the word ‘coupon’ or ‘discount’ can help you find better prices, or even hidden benefits like free shipping or a percentage off a first time order. These little tweaks can make a big difference over time. There is a difference, however, in being smart about your finances (financially fit), and being cheap (too frugal). First of all, you have to do what works for you and your household. Everyone has a threshold of time and effort they are willing to put out personally in order to save money. It is also important to build some fun and indulgence into your life. I recently read an article about a British woman who went an entire year without spending anything outside of food, shelter, and basic utility and insurance bills. She managed to save a very large amount in that one year, and was able to adjust her lifestyle to incorporate lots of free activities. In addition, she lived in a big city with free museums and was extremely outdoorsy (her vacation that year consisted of ‘wild camping’ on public beaches). Definitely not for everyone… There are ways to take a much shorter spending holiday, however, and it could be fun to see if you could go a day, a week, or even two weeks without spending anything above and beyond the bare necessities. It might be eye opening to realize how many times a week you run through a drive-through line for a drink or a snack, or to see if you could go awhile without washing your car or getting that regular mani-pedi. Why would you want to do this? Maybe it is opportunity to start (or add to) your emergency fund. Or possibly it is time to start saving for that far off vacation. Perhaps you just want to reduce the amount of stress in your household over money. Whatever your reason, be creative and have fun with this challenge. Our region has a unique natural beauty. This could be an opportunity to explore one of our outstanding public parks, or clean out the pantry by finally making a new meal with some of the forgotten ingredients you purchased long ago. Hopefully you will find it to be fun, and not as hard as expected. Let’s make 2017 be the year that we all get in the best financial shape possible!
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT
HONDA KINGSPORT
Honda Kingsport Expansion & Renovation PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
When you have over 1,000 customers each month and over 80 employees, on-site space is a necessity. That is why Honda Kingsport is investing 2.5 million dollars in renovations at their East Stone Drive dealership in Kingsport. Community leaders, Kingsport Chamber of Commerce members, and the staff of Honda Kingsport gathered on November 29, 2016 to break ground on the new project. General Manager Russ Rogers said the expansion is necessary to keep with their dealership’s mission to treat customers like family. “Right now we’ve got sales staff sharing offices and on a busy day, there are customers lined up in our reception area. The new space will allow for room to accommodate everyone.”
VICE MAYOR MIKE MCINTIRE, HONDA KINGSPORT GENERAL MANAGER RUSS ROGERS, DON CAMPBELL (CHAMBER BOD)
The renovations will feature a larger facility that will be able to provide more space for offices, a large reception area for customers, and revamping the service area to make it larger in order to assist more customers. Rogers expects a June or July date on completion of the project.
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If I Were President...
After one of the most controversial Presidential campaigns in our nation’s history, America has finally chosen. The man we formerly referred to, as “The Donald” will now be called “Mr. President”. Everyone is talking about what President Trump needs to do during his first 100 days in office. I have no idea what our new president will do first, but I can tell you what President Street would do. HERE ARE JUST A FEW THINGS I WOULD DO IN MY FIRST 100 DAYS AS PRESIDENT: Big hair would be back in style and my personal motto of “The bigger the hair, the smaller your butt looks” would be the new motto of women all around the country. It would become socially acceptable to laugh out loud during awkward moments and at people who think too highly of themselves. All business meetings would be held online and attended from home while wearing pajamas and drinking hot chocolate.
I’m Beth Street and I approve this message. Vote Street for President in 2024!!
People under the age of 40 who do not know how to use “their”, “they’re”, and “there” correctly would have to repeat all grades beginning with kindergarten. We would do away with the Electoral College for good. Only colleges in the SEC would be recognized. Political campaign seasons would be limited to no more than thirty days. All money donated to any campaign would be forwarded to a charity that neither candidate created. The whole country would switch to four-day workweeks and three-day weekends. Everyone will take a mandatory nap from 1 pm-2 pm each day. These naps will be called, “Daily Meetings”, so people from other countries won’t think we’re lazy. Instead of debates, we’d have televised arm wrestling matches. We may never know how the candidates feel about the issues, but at least debates would be entertaining. Every worker would be given three “I want to sleep in” days per calendar year with no repercussions. All school lunches would be catered by local Grandmas. There would be free internet everywhere – even in the remotest of areas. No passwords. No “looking for networks” -- just a REAL worldwide web. E.D. medicine commercials would be banned from the airwaves, because people that need that medicine are already buying it. No disturbing commercials necessary. All crybabies and “safe space cadets” would be made to attend Marine boot camp. Actual phone calls would be obsolete. If ideas can’t be conveyed via text message, they are not important. Driving slowly in the passing lane would be punishable by a lengthy incarceration in a federal prison. People who chew with their mouths open and/or full, would be banished to the wilderness until they learn table manners. It would be legal to smother snorers – not to death, but just enough that they understand the seriousness of their snoring problem. Slow walkers and people who stare at others would have to go through behavioral counseling and possibly shock therapy. Wait times, wobbly tables, and higher math would cease to exist. All grocery stores would be required to have every checkout lane open at all times, thus eliminating the self checkout lane; which would also eliminate the “unexpected item in bagging area” dilemma. And that, my friends, is how you make America great! 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
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT CROSSFIT MANIC
THE EVENT EVENTUALLY WENT TO THE DOGS AS SISTER DOGS NORA AND LOLA POSE WITH OWNERS
MIKE FOX
CHRISTY GARDNER
Barbells for Boobs PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
CrossFit Manic in downtown Kingsport is known for hardcore training of members. They are also known for their big hearts, as the CrossFit gym has held several fundraisers for the community. On Saturday, December 10, 2016, members got together for a day of pushing themselves to the limit to help fight Breast Cancer. Barbells for Boobs featured Fight Gone Bad: 3 Rounds, For Total Reps in 17 minutes; 1 minute Wall Balls (20/14 lbs); 1 minute Sumo Deadlift High-Pulls (75/55 lbs); 1 minute Box Jumps (20 in); 1 minute Push Press (75/55 lbs); 1 minute Row; and 1 minute Rest. WHITNEY LARKIN SHOWS OFF HER UPPER BODY STRENGTH
The event managed to raise $920 dollars at Barbells for Boobs. ZACH WARREN
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT & ABINGDON HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
BE A SANTA TO A SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
LORI CALHOUN (KINGSPORT SENIOR CENTER) AND DAWN ROGERS
TAMMY REED (HEALTHSOUTH), CHARLOTTE WILSON (ABINGDON HEALTH & REHAB), AND KATHY HURLEY (COMMONWEALTH SENIOR LIVING OF ABINGDON)
EDNA POTTS (FRONTIER INDUSTRIES)
MICHELLE MILLER, SARAH FAULK, AND JEANIE PATTERSON (HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE)
Each year, Home Instead Senior Care embarks on its Be a Santa to a Senior project, an initiative born out of the need to serve our region’s seniors who are lonely and in need over the holiday season. Wish lists are collected from local senior service agencies, and individuals have the opportunity to go shopping for our area’s neediest seniors. 2016 proved to be a very special year, as this year marked the project’s 10th anniversary. When shopping is completed and gifts are returned to a collection site, the next critical step is ensuring that these gifts are beautifully packaged for their recipients. Throughout the first week of December, gift wrapping parties were conducted at Commonwealth Senior Living of Abingdon, Dominion Senior Living of Bristol & Johnson City, Franklin Woods Community Hospital, Fresenius Medical Care, Kingsport Senior Center, Morning Pointe Assisted Living of Greeneville, Rogersville Senior Center, United Healthcare, and WJHL-TV. Thanks to the efforts of our community as a whole, nearly 1,200 gifts were wrapped and delivered. www.vipseenmag.com | januar y/februar y 2017
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SEEN IN
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT CHAMBER
WILLIAM KING MUSEUM OF ART
KINGSPORT
MELISSA TOEPLER AND CHRIS SANDERS
ABINGDON
TRUDY PRICE AND ELIZABETH HALL, A DIETICIAN WITH FOOD CITY.
D.R. MULLINS BARTER 1940
ERIC DRUMMOND SMITH THE LEAST OF ALL EVILS
Walk for Wellness Expo Cherry Bounce: Election PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HEATH OWENS
Welcome to Healthy Kingsport’s second-annual Walk for Wellness Expo, where Kingsporters come out to exercise together, eat together and build a more healthy community. This year’s expo took place at the Kingsport Chamber on the unseasonably warm and sunny Saturday, November 5. The expo featured over 40 vendors who provided giveaways and prizes focused on health and wellness. There was also a series of “Health Talks” and public exercise demos such as Zumba and yoga for attendees to practice and discover what type of class best fits their fitness needs before committing. The main event was the one-mile Walk for Wellness, which was a loop around the Kingsport Greenbelt. Healthy Kingsport is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a community that actively embraces healthy living by promoting wellness, enhancing infrastructure and influencing policy. The organization began several years ago with a group of committed community members who saw the urgency associated with the adverse health trends in the region. “The focus on this event is for people to get more physically active, to learn more about health and wellness and to really help keep working on Healthy Kingsport’s mission,” said Johanna Montgomery, associate director of Healthy Kingsport. “Which is to make our community active and health-conscious.”
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Night Hootenanny PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Politics and art can make good bedfellows; at least they did for the latest exhibit at the William King Museum of Art. The Museum celebrated their newest exhibit Cherry Bounce: Appalachian Art, American Politics with an Election Day Hootenanny, an election night watch party with several viewing screens, live music, and of course, food. For the exhibit, artists were assigned to create art inspired by a certain American Presidential election. It was displayed in the gallery for election night watchers to see as they awaited the returns from the Presidential Election. Artist Brett Marcus Cook usually concentrates on a different medium of art, but a last minute artist cancellation prompted him to create America Can’t Afford the Risk, responding to the campaign of George H. W. Bush. Local artist D. R. Mullins gave a history lesson with his artwork. Barter 1940 is inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s national attention she bestowed upon the Barter Theatre after meeting and talking with founder Robert Porterfield. Eric Drummond Smith teamed with Callie Hietala to create the exhibit. Smith also had a featured piece there; The Least of All Evils. While he was not assigned the current era, Smith did draw inspiration from the recent election events.
THE STAFF OF HEALTHY KINGSPORT AND A REPRESENTATIVE FROM AYUR DESTINATIONS ANNOUNCE A RAFFLE PRIZE WINNER
JEN HELGAR, HANNAH BIBEE, SHELLEY MARTIN, AND WHITNEY MOORE
NEW VISION AND H.O.P.E. YOUTH VOLUNTEER AT EVENT
WILLIAM KING MUSEUM STAFF (RUSTY FIELDS, AMESHA WHITT, CALLIE HIETALA, KATHY GIBIAN, AND LORI ROUSE)
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BRETT MARCUS COOK AMERICA CAN’T AFFORD THE RISK
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SEEN IN
JONESBOROUGH HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
NICK, BO, LC, AND DIANA
DANA AND CATOOSA
PRANCER AND DUDLEY
Doggone Christmas PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ASHLEIGH JACKSON
Not many four legged friends get an opportunity to meet Santa, but at this year ’s Doggone Christmas, no pet was left off of the nice list. Main Street Jonesborough was filled with wagging tails as families were invited to bring their furry friends for an afternoon full of Holiday activities.
EBBIE, SANTA, AND BELLA
NATALIE, LEO, CONAN, AND JOSEPH
The Christmas Market was a main attraction for families and their fur babies, where you could find vendors that sold anything from designer dog collars, handmade dog clothes, food, and treats, and even unique arts and crafts for all ages. Other events included a pet parade, where pets were lined up and led in front of the downtown courthouse. Right after the parade was a contest with winners for Ugliest Christmas Dog Sweater, Best Holiday Costume, and Pet/Owner Lookalike Contest. Donations were taken for the Washington County Humane Society and pets were also available for adoption. There are Christmas events planned for every Saturday in December throughout Main Street Jonesborough. For more information visit Main Street: Jonesborough on Facebook or call 423-753-1010.
WINNERS OF BEST COSTUME – YVIE AND BANDIT
HAYLEE, MIKAYLA, BRYSON, AND KALEB WITH BARKY OF THE WASHINGTON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
ZORA, TABITHA, AND DAGNEY
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY THE VENUE
JEFF AND ROZANNE KAPPA
MONICA GONZALEZ AND KAYLA JANEWAY
KEDDRAIN AND LESLEY BOWEN
11th Annual Red Shoe Masquerade PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY BECKY RAMSEY
“There’s no place like home.” That was the theme of the 11th Annual Red Shoe Masquerade and Silent Auction to support CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Northeast TN. The event raised $29,000 to benefit the organization. The money will allow CASA to train and support community volunteers to advocate in best interest of abused and neglected children in Washington, Greene, and Unicoi Counties. The event was held on Saturday November 5, 2016 at The Venue. Attendees dressed in cocktail attire, red shoes, and masks. Sara Diamond, WJHL evening anchor, hosted the event along with Michael Hawkins as the DJ.
TIMMY AND BRANDY TAYLOR
BRANDON WEREL AND ELIZABETH FORBES
The Red Shoe event is reminiscent of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz and her desire to go home, which coincides with CASA’s mission to find safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible, while ensuring that the child has his or her needs met. CASA of Northeast Tennessee’s mission is to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in the juvenile court. We believe that every child is entitled to a safe and stable home. Trained volunteers are the child’s voice to ensure that their needs are identified and addressed. For more information about CASA of Northeast Tennessee visit www.casanetn.org or call 461-3500. CASA BOARD MEMBERS
JENNIFER FILLING AND ELIZABETH BAILEY
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JAMIE HOWARD AND KEITH MIGESTA
CASA STAFF
SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL TRAIN STATION
CONNIE AND BRENDAN SHEEHY WITH SYDNEY
LANCE STINSON
SYDNEY THE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHARD
AUSTRALIAN DRESS DOWN UNDER PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Dress like you live in the land down under or just come as you are: no muss and no fuss. That was the idea behind the Boys and Girls Club of the Mountain Empire fundraiser held November 19th at the Bristol Train Station. A volunteer committee planned the Aussie themed event that included food provided by Moe’s, Blackbird Bakery, and Outback Steakhouse. Studio Brew and Bristol Brewery provided a sampling of some of their choice ales. The event included both a silent and live auction. Auctioneer Jerry Harless provided his time to auction such items as a pet portrait, golf and beach vacation packages, a unique painting that featured State Street, and the night’s belle of the ball, an Australian Shephard puppy named Sydney. Sydney was introduced to guests throughout the night, so that they could see meet the sweet tempered puppy before the auction. Sydney was the highest bid of the night and got to go to the loving home of Connie and Brendan Sheehy. Connie Sheehy says that is was meant to be, since the couple lost their beloved Australian Shephard a few years ago, and had recently decided they were ready for a new addition. Dick Collins and Elaine Rock of the Boys and Girls Club said everyone involved worked tirelessly to make the event a huge success, and most of all to help the children of the community.
VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE AUSTRALIAN DRESS DOWN UNDER
BRISTOL BREWERY JESSICA CROSS, AMY BLEVINS, AND WENDY BRYANT
MARTIN AND VONDA KENT LISA AND LOGAN COFER
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
VICKIE HUNGATE, EVENT ORGANIZER
LINDA AND MORGAN KING
ROSALEE AND BRUCE SITES
Night of Holiday
Miracles PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
A Night of Holiday Miracles was presented by The Regional Eye Center on Friday, December 2nd at the Meadowview Marriott Conference Center.
JOANA HOOVER-GLOVIER, GARRETT CUNNINGHAM, JOSHUA COON, AND RENEE BATES OF RE/MAX
Guests arrived to the sounds of the season presented by the Suzuki Talent Education of Appalachia (STEA). When the doors opened, everyone was amazed to step into Santa’s workshop and to see the elves hard at work loading up the sleigh! Friends could stroll among the various tasting stations with food pairings. There were many items available in a silent auction and also several travel destinations were featured. All proceeds from the event will support the Children’s Miracle Network Tri-Cities, TN/VA. The event raised over $135,000. All money raised in this area is used by Wellmont Health System to purchase state-of-the-art equipment for its pediatric departments and the recently renovated Holston Valley Medical Center NICU.
LINDA AND PETE LEMASTER
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JOHN WILLIAMS, CEO REGIONAL EYE CENTER
ELF HELP FROM SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL!
PAUL AND SANDY VOWELL
MIKE AND NANCY BERRY
AARON AND NANCY GUINN
NEIL BOAZ AND STEPHANIE CLENDENNEN
MIKE AND LINDA BROWDER
CHANA KIRBY, PEYTON WILSON, WHITNEY CARR, AND TIFFANY PORTER
DALLAS AND JENNIFER GIBSON
MAR AND MELISSA MULLINS WITH TINA DUNCAN
AMY DORAN AND DON CAMPBELL
CYNTHIA AND DAVID WOODMANSEE
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF GREATER KINGSPORT
ERNIE RUMSBY, BLAKE LEEPER, AND SAM JONES
LISA BEILHARZ AND BETH SNAPP
HONORING
MIKE AND NANCY BERRY
Our Heroes PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport and Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council held the 4th annual “Honoring our Heroes” dinner at the Boys & Girls Club on Friday, November 18, 2016. The event was held to thank and pay tribute to several local heroes – past, present and future. A buffet meal was provided by Texas Roadhouse. Beth Snapp sang the national anthem and the pledge was led by Marley. Dobyns-Bennett Air Force ROTC served as the honor guard. The keynote speaker for the event was Blake Leeper, American Blade Runner.
DAWN AND BOB CHILDRESS
NANCY KNISLEY AND JENNIFER HUGHES
MICHAEL WATSON (YOUTH OF THE YEAR) AND SEN. JON LUNDBERG CURT AND JENNY ROSE WITH ANGIE MELSON
TONIA JOHNSON WITH CLIFFORD AND LILLIAN LEEPER
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NAOMI AND LEWIS ROOP
MARLEY FELDMANN, CHRISTINE AMATO, AND BLAKE LEEPER
Get the Results You Expect!
“
Make the right move, today!
“
Redefining Concierge
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LOCAL KINGSPORT RED CROSS CHAPTER Local Kingsport Red Cross Chapter is chartered during WWI with J. Fred Johnson serving as First Chairman (American Red Cross founded in 1881). FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ESTABLISHED 1918 HAGAN HAMMOND DIES IN WWI First Sullivan County/Kingsport soldier to die in World War I. A street, bridge, park, and American Legion Post all named after him.
Take a journey through some of Kingsport’s history. A special thanks to the centennial history committee, Brianne Wright – archivist, and citizens for their timeline submissions on www.Kingsport100.org. 1800s CITY OF KING’S PORT The name “King’s Port” was accepted in the late 18th century. It does not stem from King George or any other crown, but from Col. James King, who owned the King’s Mill Station at the mouth of Reedy Creek and used the Holston River to ship commodities. The success of his business gave the city its name, because the area was being referred to as King’s Port, which later evolved to Kingsport. 1822 CITY OF KING’S PORT Population: 31 1870s KING’S PORT HIGH SCHOOL Evidence of a high school in King’s Port was documented located on the banks of Reedy Creek. 1877 KING’S PORT HIGH SCHOOL Professor Copenhaver was named the first principal of King’s Port High School. Student Body: 40 1900 ROBERT E. LEE SCHOOL Robert E. Lee School (dba Oklahoma School) opened on Myrtle and Sevier Streets. Student Body: 12 1914 CITY WATER SUPPLY J. Fred Johnson sells 1200 acres of land that is now Bays Mountain Park to Kingsport Waterworks Corporation for construction of the dam to be used for the city’s population. This dam created a 44-acre lake and served the city until 1944. 1915 POPULATION Population of the Model City 7,182 1917 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH ESTABLISHED CITY OF KINGSPORT INCORPORATED City of Kingsport incorporated and re-chartered in March 2. First Mayor, James W. Dobyns.
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HOMESTEAD HOTEL BUILT Homestead Hotel built for Grant Leather Company. 1919 KINGSPORT HIGH SCHOOL Kingsport High School graduates 3 students. 1921 KINGSPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY OPENS ANDREW JACKSON SCHOOL OPENS 1922 KINGSPORT PRESS ESTABLISHED Kingsport Press established with John B. Dennis as Chairman of the Board. First contract was with Woolworth chain for mass production of a miniature clothbound series of the classics. RIVERVIEW HOSPITAL Riverview Hospital on Netherland Inn Road was formed. 1925 BORDEN MILLS AND KINGSPORT UTILITIES Borden Mills Plant and Kingsport Utilities started. 1926 DOBYNS-BENNETT HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING OPENS This building is now John Sevier Middle School. HOLLISTON MILLS BEGINS OPERATING 1927 KINGSPORT FOUNDRY Kingsport Foundry opened. KINGSPORT MUSIC CLUB FOUNDED The Kingsport Music Club was founded September 18, 1927. The first president was Mrs. Malcolm Morison. 1928 DOUGLASS SCHOOL FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS BUILT Prior name was Oklahoma Grove. Douglass was a Rosenwald School. Julius Rosenwald was an industrialist from Chicago, the first CEO of Sears, Roebuck and Company. He established a foundation to fund the construction of hundreds of school buildings for African-American children in the early 20th century.
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1930 PET DAIRY OPENS 1932 MASON-DIXON Mason-Dixon formed. 1933 TORNADO A tornado strikes in March, Red Cross develops first Community Disaster Plan; TVA electricity and flood control plans put in place. 1935 HOLSTON VALLEY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL Holston Valley Community Hospital dedicated with 53 beds and nine bassinets on August 9, 1935. 1936 JIMMY QUILLEN Jimmy Quillen becomes youngest newspaper publisher in the United States- Kingsport Mirror CITY MISSION FOUNDED 1937 MCKELLER FIELD McKeller Field (Tri-Cities Airport) built. ORIGINAL LEGION POOL OPENS 1939 CIVIC AUDITORIUM Civic Auditorium built. DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION FORMED 1940 WKPT RADIO WKPT Radio begins broadcasting. LONG ISLAND FLOOD 1941 WALLACE NEWS OPENS 1942 TENNESSEE EASTMAN CONSTRUCTED HOLSTON ORDINANCE WORKS Tennessee Eastman, a government contractor, constructed Holston Ordinance Works to manufacture explosives during World War II. They stopped production in 1945 but reactivated in 1949 and continue operation today. J. FRED JOHNSON STADIUM AND PARK OPEN
1947 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Chamber of Commerce formed. KINGSPORT THEATER GUILD FORMED JOHN B. DENNIS DIES 1948 FREEDOM TRAIN Freedom Train stops in Kingsport. More than 11,000 came to see. KINGSPORT LIFESAVING CREW BEGINS Takes first call December 18. 1949 ALLANDALE MANSION BUILT Harvey Brooks and wife, Ruth Haire Brooks, farm land was inundated by construction of Ft. Patrick Dam and forced relocation and building of their new home, Allandale Mansion. She died in 1962, and when he died in 1969, Mr. Brooks left the house and 25 acres to the City of Kingsport. TELEVISION COMES TO KINGSPORT RIDGEFIELDS COUNTRY CLUB OPENS 1951 DOUGLASS HIGH SCHOOL OPENS New Douglass High School opens in Riverview. 1952 WARRIORS PATH STATE PARK Warriors Path State Park is acquired from the TVA for recreational use. Named for the Great Indian Warpath used by the Iroquois in war raids against the Cherokee and other tribes, the park is 950 acres around the Ft. Patrick Henry Reservoir and Duck Island on the South Fork of the Holston River. 1953 AMERICAN LEGION FOURTH OF JULY PARADE BEGINS 1955 KINGSPORT CHOSEN BY US DEPARTMENT OF STATE Kingsport chosen by US Department of State as part of a Department sponsored observation tour of American city governments. 1956 PAL’S OPENS
1944 J. FRED JOHNSON DIES
1960 TENNESSEE EASTMAN ANILINE PLANT EXPLOSION Tennessee Eastman Aniline Plant Explosion on October 4, 1960 at 4:42 p.m. was a terrible tragedy in Kingsport’s history which caused Eastman to institute new safety review programs.
1946 KINGSPORT SYMPHONY Kingsport Symphony formed.
1962 STONE DRIVE Stone Drive completed.
1943 SANTA TRAIN Santa Train begins.
1963 KINGSPORT PRESS GOES ON STRIKE Kingsport Press on strike in one of the nation’s longest strikes, continuing from March 11 through the spring of 1967. 1966 SCHOOL INTEGRATION 384 African-American students and 16 teachers integrate from Douglass School to Dobyns-Bennett High School. 1967 DOBYNS-BENNETT HIGH SCHOOL OPENED IN NEW BUILDING HOLSTON RIVER BRIDGE COLLAPSED 1968 BAYS MOUNTAIN OPENS Bays Mountain first opens to visitors as a park with a strict 100-car limit. It is the largest city-owned park in the state of Tennessee. 1969 NETHERLAND INN PLACED ON NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES KINGSPORT PRESS MERGES WITH ARCATA Kingsport Press merges with Arcata National Corporation. In the 1990s, Quebecor Printing, a company located in Canada, purchased Arcata Graphics. ALLANDALE BEQUEATHED TO CITY OF KINGSPORT 1970 INTERSTATE 81 BUILT 1971 BAYS MOUNTAIN PARK The Planetarium and the Nature Interpretive Center at Bays Mountain Park open. 1972 DOBYNS-BENNETT HIGH SCHOOL Largest graduating class ever at Dobyns-Bennett High School, 512 students 1974 DOWNTOWN KINGSPORT ASSOCIATION ORGANIZED INDIAN PATH MEDICAL CENTER Indian Path Medical Center opens for healthcare in Kingsport. 1975 REMODELED AMERICAN LEGION POOL OPENS 1976 FORT HENRY MALL OPENS 1977 FARMERS MARKET BEGINS Farmers Market begins in parking lot of First Presbyterian Church.
CORA COX EARNS TENNESSEE TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD 1979 HOLSTON VALLEY HOSPITAL PERFORMS FIRST OPEN HEART SURGERY 1980 FUN FEST BEGINS Kingsport Fun Fest begins this fall as a summer community event. Events are an effort to unite residents, foster a belief that Kingsport is a caring community and good place to live and work. 1982 GREENBELT CONSTRUCTION BEGINS 1985 KINGSPORT RECOGNIZED AS A MAIN STREET COMMUNITY INTERSTATE 181 ESTABLISHED Interstate 181 (future I-26) established as an interstate designation of US-23, connecting Johnson City to Kingsport. COACH VAN HUSS COACH OF THE YEAR Coach Van Huss named National Coach of the Year for men’s basketball 1988 SURVIVOR’S CLUB (NOW KINGSPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY) IS FOUNDED FARMSTEAD MUSEUM AT BAYS MOUNTAIN OPENS 1989 FRIENDS OF ALLANDALE ESTABLISHED KINGSPORT TOMORROW/VISION 2017 Kingsport Tomorrow/Vision 2017 process has farreaching implications on city plans. 1990 COACH WALTER “BUCK” VAN HUSS DIES June 30, 1990, Coach Walter “Buck” Van Huss dies at the age of 71 during open-heart surgery. He was six victories from being the winningest high school basketball coach in history and was looking forward to his next season with the DB Indians. Van Huss had a 1,021-313 record in 37 years of coaching and led Kingsport to the state tournament eight of his first 14 years at that school. 1991 RENAISSANCE CENTER OPENS ARCATA BECOMES QUEBECOR 1993 GRAHAM CLARK NAMED HEAD FOOTBALL COACH AT DB Graham Clark is named Head Football Coach at Dobyns-Bennett High School. Coach Clark is the longest-serving coach in the school’s history.
1994 KINGSPORT ARCHIVES Archives of the City of Kingsport opens (first municipal archive in Tennessee). EASTMAN SPINS OFF FROM KODAK 1995 HUNTER WRIGHT STADIUM BUILT 1996 MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT OPENS Meadowview Marriott opens with 195 rooms; 30,000 square feet of meeting space. 1997 LAFE COOK JOINS KINGSPORT CITY SCHOOLS Lafe Cook joins Kingsport City Schools as DobynsBennett Director of Bands. Mr. Cook is the longestserving band director in the school’s history.
2008 SCULPTURE WALK BEGINS IN DOWNTOWN KINGSPORT 2009 RCAM OPENS The Regional Center for Advanced Manufacturing (RCAM) opens. KINGSPORT HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER Kingsport Higher Education Center opened and wins Innovations in American Government Award from The Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. 2010 V.O. DOBBINS, SR. COMPLEX OPENS
1999 KINGSPORT NAMED ALL AMERICAN CITY
PAL BARGER REGIONAL CENTER FOR AUTOMOTIVE PROGRAMS OPENS Pal Barger Regional Center for Automotive Programs opens as the fifth building in Academic Village.
MAYOR’S ECONOMIC SUMMIT Mayor’s Economic Summit breathes new life into Kingsport.
2011 KINGSPORT FARMERS MARKET BUILDING OPENS
2002 BLAZIER-WILSON HALL OPENS Blazier-Wilson Hall (known as RCAT or Regional Center for Applied Technology) opens as first building in Academic Village downtown.
2013 KINGSPORT AQUATIC CENTER OPENS
2003 INTERSTATE 181 BECOMES EXTENSION OF I-26 Interstate 181 becomes extension of I-26 from Johnson City to the I-81 intersection (Tri-Cities Crossing) in Kingsport. KINGSPORT SYMPHONY RENAMED SYMPHONY OF THE MOUNTAINS JIMMY QUILLEN DIES United States Congressman longer than any Tennessean in history. 2005 NEW PARKS OPEN Scott Adams Skate Park and Domtar Park open. 2006 RED CROSS CHAPTER RENAMED Red Cross Chapter renamed American Red Cross of Northeast Tennessee. Chapter manages Tennessee response to Gulf Coast Hurricane Katrina, serving 20,000 families and raising $1.6 million locally to support relief efforts. RIVERVIEW SPLASH PAD OPENS 2007 BOUNDLESS PLAYGROUND OPENS Boundless Playground opens at Warriors Path State Park, a unique one-of-a-kind play area for children with universally accessible equipment. QUEBECOR CLOSES
PEAK (PROFESSIONALS ENGAGED IN ADVANCING KINGSPORT) BEGINS PEAK (Professionals Engaged in Advancing Kingsport) begins a young professional movement, becomes largest in Tennessee. 2014 WELCOME CENTER OPENS 2015 KINGSPORT CAROUSEL OPENS Kingsport Carousel opens as one of the most highly successful volunteer projects the city has accomplished. By December 31, the venue welcomes 50,000 riders. ONEKINGSPORT SUMMIT ONEKingsport Summit promises to make Kingsport the premier destination in Northeast Tennessee for people to live, work, raise a family and for businesses to grow and prosper. 2016 PAL’S CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF SUDDEN SERVICE NATIONAL SAFE COMMUNITY Kingsport recognized on Oct 5 as a National Safe Community, one of only 19 in the nation and the only one in Tennessee. KINGSPORT CAROUSEL HITS 100,000TH RIDER MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER celebrates 20 years in Kingsport.
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT DOWNTOWN
TYLER RAMEY WITH GIANT JINGA
“SPOOLIE GOODINE” (STEVE PALE)
Kingsport 100’s New Year’s Eve
Street Party PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Centennial Kickoff was a party for all ages on December 31st. The event ushered in the 100 city celebration for 2017. Children had activities which included face painting, pony rides, games, and a magician.
LORI AND AUSTIN PAYNE, AMY MARGARET MCCOLL, AND LUCY FLEMING
Ever yone enjoyed dancing in the streets and the “100” sign being lit up at midnight. Confetti filled the air to the cheers of the crowd. During the event, Lamplight Theater rang in the New Year with the “Foggy Valley Gang”. Rusty Clark entertained crowds at Model City Tap Room, Sleepy Owl Brewery had live entertainment, and karaoke filled the night at Macado’s! The beginning of 100 Years of Kingsport was celebrated with plenty of community spirit! LUCY FLEMING, HEATHER COOK, DAVID CHASE, AND SHEA PAYNE
AUSTIN AND KRIZTENA ADAMS
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CASEY OSBORNE AND BILLY WAYNE
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HAPPY NEW YEAR!
CINDY AND LAUREN LEMONS
FAMILIES GATHER FOR THE EVENT
RUSTY CLARK ENTERTAINS AT MODEL CITY TAP ROOM
JOSH SMITH OF WJHL
FESTIVE ATTIRE!
DANCING IN THE STREETS!
NEON HOOPS!
GETTING READY TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS!
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT CENTENNIAL PARK
HEATHER COOK, CITY OF KINGSPORT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS AND BRENDA WHITE-WRIGHT, CENTENNIAL PARK COMMITTEE CHAIR
KINGSPORT MAYOR JOHN CLARK. KINGSPORT ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER CHRIS MCCARTT, AND ALDERMAN TOM PARHAM
CITY OF KINGSPORT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST COREY SHEPHERD WITH ANGELA AND JOHN VACHON
Kingsport Centennial Park Groundbreaking Ceremony PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELICA ARES | STORY BY ANGELA BAKER
The Kingsport Community Foundation, as a part of the East Tennessee Foundation, and the City of Kingsport Centennial Commission joined together to accomplish a legacy project for Kingsport’s centennial. Celebrating the Kingsport Spirit, Kingsport’s Centennial Park was chosen as it will provide a unique destination and link to downtown Kingsport that commemorates the community ’s past, present and future. This has been a project in the making for over two years. The year 2017 marks the City of Kingsport’s 100th anniversary and Centennial Park will be a key location for events, celebrations and family gatherings. During the groundbreaking ceremony, Jim Harlan with the Kingsport Community Foundation presented a check for $1 million to Kingsport Mayor John Clark. In addition to the check, the Kingsport Community Foundation continues fundraising efforts as people are still coming forward to be a part of this special park. Construction is underway, and the park is projected to open summer 2017, depending on the weather this winter. The culminating centennial signature event on November 17 will be at Centennial Park where an unveiling will occur of the Santa Train sculpture called the Spirit of Generosity. For more information on this Kingsport Centennial project, donating to the park or other events taking place in 2017 to celebrate Kingsport’s 100th anniversary, please visit kingsport100.org
EMMA CLARK AND SHERRI MOSLEY, DOWNTOWN KINGSPORT ASSOCIATION
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JIM HARLAN, KINGSPORT COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
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KINGSPORT CITY MANAGER JEFF FLEMING, SAM COOK, AND ERNIE RUMSBY
JEFF AND CEEGEE MCCORD, CENTENNIAL COMMISSION CO-CHAIRS
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