Ryan Shao, MD
Vickie Morgan, MD
Harsha Vardhana, MD
Kelley Mayden, FNP
Bristol
Alton Blow, MD
Kathy Sharp, FNP
Jamal Maatouk, MD
Myra Blankenship, NP
378 Marketplace Blvd. 423-433-6390 •
Fadi Abu-Shahin, MD Nausheen Ahmed, MD
Edwin McElroy, MD
Ibrahim Nakhoul, MD
Asheesh Shipstone, MD
Paige Goforth, PA
Kim Nichols, NP
Wendy Vogel, NP
Donna McDonald, NP
Cancer doesn’t just affect patients. It touches everyone in their lives, and their family and friends are by their sides for the journey. That’s why the Wellmont Cancer Institute has created the region’s most robust network of cancer experts who offer a range of oncology and hematology services, from targeted therapy and personalized treatment plans to leading radiation oncology technology, lymphedema therapy and clinical trials and research.
Find strength for today and hope for tomorrow at the Wellmont Cancer Institute. Visit wellmont.org/hope to learn more.
Gynecologic oncology
Paul Kramer, MD
The care you need. The people you trust.
Marco DaSilva, MD
Kingsport
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Johnson City
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4485 W. Stone Dr., Suite 200 423-578-8500
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wellmont.org/hope /Wellmont wellmontphysicians.org wellmontphysicians.org
/Wellm @W
FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares DIRECTOR OF SALES Felicia Conners SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST EVENT COORDINATOR Jon Lester ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams 423.612.3583 Lark@vipseenmag.com April Barnes 423.646.4626 april@vipseenmag.com Sally Dodson 423.612.3758 sally@vipseenmag.com Jacqueline Joseph 423.367.6785 Jacqueline@vipseenmag.com Becky Ramsey 423.646.9490 becky@vipseenmag.com COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lark Adams Emma Ayers Pam Blair Liz Bushong Linda Coffey Jami Cross Lucy Honeychurch Sherri Jessee Jonathan Lester Savanna McDavid Beth Street Jana Webb PHOTOGRAPHY Mickey J. Baker Lark Adams Emma Ayers Liz Bushong Linda Coffey Jami Cross Jonathan Lester Savanna McDavid Jana Webb
Letter from the Publisher
She Says ...
acting
I love your happy side, your sad side, your silly side, your mad side, I love your fingers and toes, your ears and nose. I love your hair and eyes, your giggles and cries. I love you running and walking, silent and talking. I love you through and through… yesterday, today and tomorrow too. – I Love You Through and Through by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak (2005) I used to read this book to my kids everyday. There was even a time where I had memorized all the words and I would recite it in the car, on the phone, or just when I picked them up from daycare. When I was younger, I used to think about having children, never really understanding how my heart could add more love than I already had in my life. Wow! Was I wrong. I know that there are people out there that cannot or may just not want children, and I respect that, though I knew I always wanted children. In 2003, I was blessed with my first child. My heart was full, or so I thought. How? How could so much love fit in such a small organ? Then, in 2009, our son was born. And, just like that, my heart grew “two sizes too big.” What a fantastic ride! Which brings us to today... On September 2nd, 2016 at 11:51am, this world became a little brighter. Angela and Mickey Baker welcomed Jackson James Baker into this beautiful world. Yes, this life is filled with challenges. Yes, this world is filled with struggle. But, Jackson James could not have been born to two more understanding, giving, loving, successful, and driven parents. I, along with the entire staff at VIPSEEN Magazine would like to officially welcome Jackson into this world. Welcome to one of the most beautiful places on Earth with its gorgeous landscape and infinite possibilities. The people of the Tri-Cities will embrace you like their own and teach you how to be part of a community with a limitless appetite for giving. We know that children are the future: they are who will take over when we stop working and when we decide to pass the baton. VIPSEEN works every month to bring attention to those in the community who strive to do good both for the present and the future. The non-profits we profile, the individuals who attend events to donate money, and the community that comes together in support of causes are all aspects of living in the Tri-Cities that make this area so unique. Everyone who Jackson meets will leave an impact on his life in some way: indelible marks that will help to form the adult he will become. Angela has built a business that strives to focus on the positive that exists in the communities we live; the positive that works to help rid the world of negative. I, and the rest of us at the magazine, am excited for Angela to take the reigns again and continue showing the people of the Tri-Cities region what a great place they live in. Angela and Mickey will be taking this ride together and we will all be waiting in anticipation of the wonderful things that are to come!
Angelica Ares, Creative Director, angelica_a@vipseenmag.com
DISTRIBUTION Ricky Adams Bobby Flowers Charles Kilgore Martin Kilgore Mark Kilgore Tim Paden 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
4 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
ON THE COVER
Jackson James Baker
PHOTOGRAPH BY
Amy Mize Photography
Contents
8
FEATURES
13 ARTSEEN
CHICAGO THE MUSICAL COMES TO ABINGDON
56 LEUKAPHERESIS: A NEW WAY TO GIVE
DEPARTMENTS 6
HAPPY
7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
18 NONPROFIT THE ALZHEIMER’S REGIONAL RESOURCE CENTER 38 EARLY BIRD GIFT GUIDE 49 SERVE IT UP SASSY
PRE-SERVE-IT! CAN SOME JAM!
52 WIT BIT
ANNOYING PEOPLE; CAN WE TRULY AVOID THEM?
55 VIPMEN
OCULAR OCTOBER
58 VIPBEAUTY
BLONDE OPTIONS
EVENTS 8 12 16 20 21 22 26 27 29 29 30 32 33 37 44 46 47 53 54 61 62 62 63 64
30
FUN FEST 2016 Kingsport Busker Fest Virginia Highlands Festival Imagination Library – Putt-Putt for Readers Fundraiser Real Men Wear Pink Golf-A-Thon 6th Annual Farm to Fork Gala CrossFit Manic: Bowen V Get Your Grill On St. Jude’s Appreciation Party St. Jude’s Putt-Putt Tournament Salvation Army’s 4th Annual Festival of Tables Kingsport City Schools Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon Oldsmobile Car Collectors Netherland Inn Low Country Boil UMOJA 2016 Tri-Cities Greek Fest Symphony of the Moutains Music at the Mansion Dominican Big Leaguer Cigar Event Pokémon Go: Catch ‘Em All in Downtown Kingsport F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Summer Social PEAK in Paradise State of the Senate Debate, hosted by PEAK Kingsport Ballet Sponsor Luncheon Integrity First Financial Group After Hours
64 NEW ON THE SCENE OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 5
Happy October
Happy Birthday Josh Foster!
Happy Birthday Jen Baker!
Happy Birthday Misty Lunsford!
Happy Birthday Tammy Frye (Mrs. Catfish)
Happy Birthday Shonda Bell! We Love You!
Happy Birthday Jeremy Judd!
Happy Birthday Emylee Steadman and Tootsie!
Happy Birthday Kaye Ball!
Happy Birthday, Bailey, My Beautiful Daughter! Love you to the moon & back!
Happy Birthday Kayla Bowen!
Happy Birthday Heather Garland!
Happy Birthday Bryan Mulkey!
Happy Birthday Junior! We love you!
Happy Birthday Rusty Little!
Happy Birthday to my favorite sister, Serina Morelock! I love you!
Happy Birthday Pastor Jerrod Manning!
6 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
Happy Birthday Michael Farthing!
Happy Birthday Whitney Morton!
Happy Birthday Tammy Cross!
Calendar of Events / OCTOBER 2016 OCTOBER 1 Scotty McCreery Concert Niswonger Performing Arts Center 212 Tusculum Blvd. Greeneville, TN 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm 6th Annual Oktoberfest Downtown Kingsport Kingsport, TN 10 am – 9:30 pm tennesseeoktoberfest.com 3rd Annual Greene Goes Pink 5K Walk/Run Veterans Memorial Park Johnson City, TN 9 am - onwards susandcrum.com OCTOBER 4 Younglife Annual Banquet Meadowview Convention Center Kingsport, TN 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm younglifekpt.org OCTOBER 5 Brown Bag Lunch & Learn Chamber Board Room Johnson City, TN 12pm – 1 pm OCTOBER 6 Painter James E. Turner Artist Takeover Abingdon Visitor Center Abingdon, VA 5 pm – 7 pm First Thursday Sip & Stroll Downtown Kingsport Kingsport, TN 5 pm – 8 pm Friends of Children Dinner Meadowview Convention Center Kingsport, TN 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Gazebo Party & Gift Shop 40th Anniversary 225 East Market Street Kingsport, TN 5 pm – 8 pm OCTOBER 7 Relay for Life Inaugural Banquet Carnegie Hotel Grand Ballroom Johnson City, TN 7 pm 50th Annual ETSU Alumni Golf Classic Blackthorn Golf Course at The Ridges Johnson City, TN 12 pm - onwards 39th Annual Unicoi County Apple Festival through October 8th Erwin, TN 8 am-8 pm unicoicounty.org/apple-festival National Storytelling Festival through October 9th International Storytelling Center Jonesborough, TN All Day OCTOBER 8 Unicoi County Apple Festival Road Race Unicoi County Family YMCA Erwin, TN Starts at 9 am unicoicounty.org/apple-festival OCTOBER 11 NETAR Trade Show Holiday Inn Johnson City, TN 1 pm – 4 pm OCTOBER 14 HOPE Breakfast Food City 1505 N Eastman Road 7:30 am – 9 am
OCTOBER 20 Pitches and Pints King’s Centre 2nd floor 300 E Main St. #200 Johnson City, TN 7pm - onwards
OCTOBER 29 Niswonger Children’s Hospital – Scarecrow Skedaddle 2 Mile Run ETSU’s Brooks Gym Johnson City, TN 10 am – onwards
OCTOBER 21 LOUD shirt Gala Holiday Inn Bristol, VA 6 pm – 8 pm
Haunted Half Marathon Kingsport Chamber Kingsport, TN 2 pm – 5 pm
OCTOBER 21 through October 23rd 15th Annual Sycamore Shoals Celtic Festival Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park Elizabethton, TN Friday Night Torchlight Ceremony - 6:30 pm Saturday – Sunday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday Night Concert - 6:30 pm OCTOBER 22 March of Dimes Spooks & Spirits Bristol Motor Speedway Bristol, TN 7 pm – 9 pm 423.341.4566 PRIDE Halloween Dance Party Best Western Hotel Johnson City, TN 7 pm – 12 am OCTOBER 23 11th Anniversary Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Memorial Park Kingsport, TN 11am – 3pm OCTOBER 27 Family Fun Ride (Halloween Edition) Kingsport Chamber Kingsport, TN 5:30 pm
Betsy Bluegrass Bash TA Dugger Auditorium Elizabethton, TN 6 pm – 8 pm Halloween Bash Kingsport Farmer’s Market Kingsport, TN 6 pm – 12 am 2nd Annual Tri-Cities BOO BASH Carnegie Hotel Johnson City, TN 7 pm – 11 pm OCTOBER 30 Making Strides of Tri-Cities Founder’s Park Johnson City, TN 3 pm - onwards
OCTOBER @ BARTER THEATRE ~ CHICAGO (See Page 13) ~ RAY BRADBURY’S SOMETHING WICKED THIS WAY COMES ~ THE GIVER ~ WINTER WHEAT ~ PETER JAMES’ THE PERFECT MURDER Visit www.bartertheatre.com or call 423-6283991 for show times and to purchase tickets.
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Fun Fest 2016 STORY BY JON LESTER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA AYERS, LINDA COFFEY, JAMI CROSS, AND JON LESTER
Thirty-five percent of me wants to begin this story by entitling it “The Festival of Fun”, but that would be very witless of me; so, I suppose I shall abide by the original title that has been used for the last 35 years: FUN FEST. Bringing forth entertainment in all aspects, Fun Fest never falters, and the 35th year holds true to that statement; with ‘Taste of Tri-Cities’; the ‘Balloon Glow’; the infamous ‘Breakfast with the Balloons’; the ‘Fun Fest Parade’; the equally exhausting and painfully rewarding ‘Crazy 8’s Race’; and musical entertainment to close out the festival every year—this year being American Authors and The Fray. In all honesty, it isn’t the events, nor is it the plethora of activities that ensure a “Festival of Fun”; it’s the region and our community that makes Fun Fest a success year after year and will continue to do so in the years to come.
TRASH-IN
PARADE
8 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
CAROUSEL BIRTHDAY
CRAZY 8s & LITTLE 8s
BREAKFAST
OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 9
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
BALLOON GLOW & BREAKFAST WITH THE BALLOONS
CONCERT: THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND
CONCERT: NEWSBOYS
WITH THE DAVID CROWDER BAND
10 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
CONCERT: THE FRAY WITH AMERICAN AUTHORS
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Busker DOWNTOWN
Fest 2016 STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JON LESTER
The Downtown Kingsport Association is notorious for showcasing everything Downtown Kingsport has to offer; from the diversity in community, enterprises, and the forever-growing archival quality the region knows it to be.
Kingsport Ballet
Ben Blevins and Darrell Conrad of Holloway Dance Studio
The Mad Hatter and Seth Greer
Braylee Polson and Joseph Ketron
Held on July 16th, 2016, and brought to you by the Downtown Kingsport Association and the Professionals Engaged in Advancing Kingsport (PEAK), the Downtown Kingsport Busker Fest was a day that had all senses at peak: if you closed your eyes to listen to the harmonic sounds of various musicians (such as Harper and the Bears, Tyler Luttrell, Cameron Tate, or Seth Greer), you’d fail to see body painting by Aisling Ryan, The MadHatter’s Kid Zone, and you would fail to see the fine-point and coordination from the Kingsport Ballet. However, if eyes were closed to focus on the sounds, and if you tuned your ears out to focus on the sights, you would still be able to feel. And nothing sounds better than being able to feel passion. ‘Thank You’ to the State Theatre Company and Lamplight Theatre. Both were incredibly valuable to this event being a momentous success!
HI
TH
EM
CA
US
IC
AL
GO
ARTSEEN
Barter Theatre Brings Us the Classic Musical and All the Hoopla That Comes Along With It. STORY BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 13
ARTSEEN
T
here are rumors and legend when it comes to Maurine Watkins and how she came to get her job at the Chicago Tribune in 1924. So much time has passed that how she came to have the fifty-dollar a week job, over $683.00 in today’s currency, will never be discovered but one thing is certainly for sure: Watkins parlayed her newspaper job into fame and fortune during one of America’s more raucous times. Maurine was asked to write about the cases of two women, both were on trial for murder, so she showed up every day at the courthouse to watch the trials that had been transformed from run of the mill murder inquiries into front page fodder. Chicago was captivated by the two “beautiful murderesses” and Watkins was no different. The rise and fall of the celebrity is something that still captivates society today and we are quick to lift celebrities up only to take them down even quicker. What entrances us about the private lives of public figures is a phenomena that scores of psychologists may never figure out, but enamored we are. The cycle of small town girl turned celebrity turned hardened vamp is one that will not likely end soon. What made the crime columns by Watkins so popular at the time was the dripping satire that she wrote them with and the realization that what she, and her readers, was witnessing was real life turned into farce. Two men were dead, two women were on trial, and the scandalous nature of the events was made worse by the attention-grabbing techniques employed by both women: Chicago would never be the same. The 1975 musical Chicago was inspired by the play that Maurine Watkins wrote and it is as full of the showmanship, absurdity, and shocking scandal as the original trial was. Chicago has become, for many a theatre actor, the pinnacle blend of song and dance and acting; very few plays come close. “It is what every dancer and singer wants to act in,” says Ashley Campos, “to make my comeback to the stage by appearing in Chicago is a dancer’s dream.” Campos, for those who may not know, is a resident Barter actor who is returning from a several year hiatus; time she spent being pregnant and then having her son Max. Campos, who plays Velma Kelly, and her counterpart Roxie Hart, played by Sarah Laughland, both agree that the women play the system in order to win their freedom. “Women at the time were limited in their resources,” Laughland tells me. “Yes,” Campos chimes in, “they used what they had in order to get acquitted: good looks and feminine guile. They used the media as much as the media used them.” Just as the original women relied on perception in order to win them their respective cases, Chicago has relied on perception since its Broadway premiere in 1975 in order to show audiences the biting humor that comes along with fame. Velma and Roxie must “look the part” in order to win the sympathy of the jury and the press, in fact, the entire courtroom dance must be carefully choreographed so that the lawyer for both women, Billy Flynn, can work his magic. For the production of Chicago at Barter Theatre, as with each production, those behind the scenes giving the audience “a show” are numerous and often go unnoticed. Lighting, sound, wigs, props, and makeup are just a few of the tasks that are taken care of for each production but for anyone who has ever seen or heard of Chicago they know that there are two more elements of utmost importance: costume and dance. In order to get the legendary dance numbers and costumes right, Barter turned to Amanda Aldridge a lifelong dancer and longtime costume designer.
14 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
“I have these sketches,” at which point Aldridge points to what look to be index cards with pencil drawings on them, “and I take them with me to New York and just dive into the fabric shops looking for just the right pieces of cloth.” Aldridge takes her shopping trips twice a year: in the sweltering heat of summer and the freezing cold of late winter. The large fabric shops that she visits, many of which have joined together in order to keep from going out of business, are either oppressively hot or obscenely cold two conditions she has learned to shop in. “I have to find my fabrics. I only get to fabric shop in New York twice a year so I have to make sure that I get everything we need for the upcoming season.” Aldridge plays double duty with Chicago since she is both costume designer and choreographer, two roles that she relishes getting to do with a musical of this caliber. “I have loved working with the actors on the dance numbers.” In fact, Aldridge comments, she and Assistant to the Choreographer and Dance Captain Josh Levinson, had stayed after rehearsal on several occasions to work on routines. “Oh it was the best experience,” she exclaims, “what started out as just a few minutes of work ended up being several hours of dancing with each other in front of the mirrors. We played off each other and came up with new ideas and steps and worked out some kinks!” The grin on her face tells the story of a woman in love with dance, Amanda Aldridge has been at the craft since the wee age of three, and a woman enthralled with the creative process. “The costumes,” she tells me, “should help tell the story. The famous dance scene, Cell Block Tango, is a perfect example. Our dancers go from humble to show stopping in the blink of an eye. The costumes have to do the same so we designed dresses, easy to dance in, which use zips and snaps to add and remove pieces in the blink of an eye. Just pull a zipper and voila, the women go from plain to dazzling.” So much work goes into a production as big as Chicago that everyone has to come together in a manner befitting the spirit of theatre:
everyone works together for the success of the show. “There are no actors with big heads here,” Amanda tells me, “and that is what I love so much about Barter. New York has entire productions built around just one actor or actress, but here, someone who played the lead in one play is just a background character in another; and happy to do so.” The story is what is important and the idea that popular Barter resident actors would perform back-up roles is something that runs counter to the story that Chicago tells, but maybe that is the best part. “There is such a sense of community here,” Aldridge tells me before we part, “and we work as a team and collaborate meaning no one person is getting in the way of the story and that’s what makes Barter so successful after all these years: the story gets told.” Good stories are what keep audiences coming back to Barter Theatre year after year, because long after we may have forgotten an actor or a tune or a line; the story sticks with us and becomes ours and ours alone.
SEEN IN ABINGDON
DOWNTOWN
Virginia Highlands
Festival
Maria Clark and North Yates peruse the tents.
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA AYERS
White tents filled with myriad examples of brightly colored art lined the streets in Downtown Abingdon, Virginia. Music danced through the summer air and hundreds of people milled around; laughing with their families and friends. The occasion? The Virginia Highlands Festival, an annual event started in 1949 by Barter Theatre founder Robert Porterfield. The much-beloved function was created in an effort to “preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of the area.” Even so, the festival has since become inclusive and representative of the entire Southwestern portion of Virginia. From the 29th of July to August 7th, attendees of the festival were treated to many spectacles including concerts from bands such as Bill and the Belles, John Berry, Joseph Trivette Musical Associates, and an entire day of Celtic music from melodic to mayhem! Tours were given of the historic homes within Abingdon’s of homes within Abingdon’s Historic District, and photography, fine art, and youth art exhibit competitions were open to the public. Delicious local food was served every day from the various street vendors, and in the August heat a refreshing iced lemonade was sure to hit the spot. The region’s wordsmiths also indulged in the exciting experience of Writer’s Day: an entire day devoted to writer’s workshops, with several professional writers like Catherine Bush, Don Johnson, and Sharyn McCrumb lending their suggestions to budding authors! The Virginia Highlands Festival was filled to the brim with events such as these, and all were alike in this: each celebrated local talent and expressly encouraged the dreams of kids and adults alike. The VHF is beloved by thousands in its area, because it brings to light the ingenuity and creativity, which makes Southwest Virginia and the Appalachia region so unique. And when you take a look at the massive quilts or the exceedingly precise brushstrokes on the oil paintings, it isn’t difficult to see why that many throughout the world cherish uniqueness.
Emily Yontz and Brian and Bridgette Davis of Artifactual Adornments
Petty Shepard of the African hut
Phillip Peters and Derek Hinkle are ready to serve up some eats.
Artists Janice Beck and Jerry Miller enjoy bringing their work to the VA Highlands!
Debby Davidson and Ruby Kennedy of Alison Concessions
For more info on next year’s VHF, or to buy tickets in advance, check out vahighlandsfestival.org.
Tiffany and Kenny Quick
16 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
John Mitchell of La Ciagle is immersed in a rainbow of Provencal tablecloths!
DON'T MISS IT! October 21-23, 2016 Historic Downtown Bristol TN/VA
3 DAYS. 2 STATES. 1 FILM FESTIVAL. PUSHFILMFEST
PUSHFILMFEST.COM #PUSHFILMFEST
VIP NONPROFIT Profile
The Alzheimer’s Regional Resource Center, Inc. STORY BY SHARON DURNIN, DIRECTOR, THE ALZHEIMER’S REGIONAL RESOURCE CENTER, INC.
ALZHEIMER’S FACTS: Every 66 seconds, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. More than 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease. 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia-related diseases. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is a life-changing diagnosis of a disease that has no prevention, no slowing of progression, and most importantly, no cure. Over 18 billion hours of unpaid care. Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost our nation over $236 billion in 2016 and costs continue to rise.
A
s more and more families receive the unexpected diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, they are left wondering what the next step is. What does this diagnosis mean for our loved one and for our family? What are the stages of Alzheimer’s disease? What medications should be prescribed and when? Where do we go for help? Who do we turn to for guidance as we begin our journey of memory care? Who offers support for caregivers or understanding for the person living with the disease? Why did this happen to my loved one or to me? Is there a cure for Alzheimer’s disease? Many, many questions…Many different emotions to sort through before one can even begin to understand what they are facing. The caregiver feels overwhelmed and then comes that one feeling that can consume even the best of caregivers: fear of the unknown. Caregivers need support and resources to adequately supply the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s. In the beginning, it is unclear what resources are actually needed, but soon into the journey, needs become clearer. Support and informational resources become a necessity for all involved. A quote from an old African proverb says that “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” Well, it takes a “whole village” to care for those who cannot care for themselves, such as our precious loved ones who have been diagnosed and are now living with Alzheimer’s disease. That kind of love and support can come from family, friends, church members, neighbors, or anyone else who can offer support to the family as a whole, not only to the caregiver of the person living with the disease, but also to the person who has been diagnosed with this progressive brain disorder. As with any debilitating disease, to be a survivor, one must not lose hope, no matter what we are battling in our lives. This is especially true for many caregivers who have the role of caring for another human being from “diagnosis day” forward. The physical and emotional stress is overwhelming and sometimes seems endless as the minutes, hours, days, and years of living with this disease pass by. Alzheimer’s disease steals our loved ones from us. Often times our loved ones become someone we do not know. The face, voice, and body look the same, but the person inside is not who we know them to be. Our mothers, our fathers, our wives, our husbands, our sisters, our brothers, our sons, our daughters, our grandparents, our friends…forever changed and not always for the best. That can become the reality for caregivers and that fact in itself is hard to accept. We want our loved ones to be who they were before the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, but in our hearts, we know that things will continue to change. Left is a person who may no longer know our name nor the relationship we had with them “pre-Alzheimer’s”, but here we are…caregivers…still holding on to them, still hoping to bring them back to who they once were. What can we do? Where do we go from here? Where is “our village?”
There is help and there is hope. You are not alone… 18 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
The Alzheimer’s Regional Resource Center, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) organization that was established to meet the need for current resources and support in our community, as well as surrounding communities, for those caring for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease. The Resource Center is dedicated to helping provide the most accurate resources in our community. Whether the family is just beginning their journey with Alzheimer’s, or nearing the end of the journey, there are people who have knowledge to help ensure that the person living with memory impairment is cared for in a way that maintains their dignity and respect, as well as supporting the person providing the care, which can quickly become overwhelming if support and information is not made available. The Alzheimer’s Regional Resource Center is an invaluable community outreach source for individuals and families who live each day caring for those who are stricken with this progressive brain disorder. Some of the resources that are offered at no charge to the families are: • Alzheimer’s disease (and other dementia-related diseases) educational materials. i.e. literature, books, DVDs, outreach sources and other
• On-site, monthly support groups
• On-site training for professional or non-professional caregivers
• Counseling for caregivers for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related diseases
• Resources for Elder Care Law, power of attorney, living will, advance directives, conservatorship
• Information on Financial resources available, i.e. Long-Term Care Insurance, Veteran’s Benefits, Tennessee Choices program and other • Contacts information for area geriatric specialists, specialty facilities and programs for behavioral health
• 24/7 Telephone hotline for crisis situations involving persons with Alzheimer’s disease
The Alzheimer’s Regional Resource Center staff consists of specialty-trained professionals who will listen without judging, care without criticizing, and expend all resources available to help direct the pathway of a person’s Alzheimer’s journey in the direction that will better provide quality of life, and dignity until the journey is over. On September 17, 2016, the Resource Center hosted the 6th annual “Ride for Memories” Motorcycle Charity event. On September 19, 2017, the 3rd annual Caregiver’s Conference, sponsored by the Resource Center, is scheduled to take place in Kingsport. The Alzheimer’s Regional Resource Center, Inc. is proud to serve our community!
“The heart remembers when the mind forgets.”
SEEN IN BRISTOL
PUTT-PUTT FUN CENTER
Putt Putt for Readers fundraiser
to benefit the Sullivan County
Imagination Library PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
Donna Jones, Erika Brammer, Tammie Davis, and Susan Adesman
Dolly Parton’s story of growing up poor in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee is well known, but what some people may not know is that her father was part of her inspiration for starting the Imagination Library, a program that provides free age-appropriate books to children in Tennessee and parts of Virginia, from birth to age five. Dolly’s father never learned to read or write, and that history shaped Dolly and her love of education and reading. A group of dedicated individuals in Sullivan County, Tennessee has taken up the cause of childhood literacy and operates one of the local branches of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The Sullivan County Imagination Library also partners with the Tennessee Governor’s Books from Birth foundation. The allvolunteer, 501[c] 3 non-profit organization mails about 6,000 books monthly to Sullivan County preschool children. In order to pay for these books, they must raise over $75,000 this year.
Elsie Babel
‘Dolly’ and Lucy Paulson
On Saturday, August 6, the SCIL held a fundraiser at the Putt Putt Fun Center in Bristol, Tennessee. Families and individuals alike gathered to play putt putt golf, win door prizes, munch on goodies for sale, and even get their picture taken with (a cardboard version of) Dolly Parton. If you are interested in donating to the Sullivan County Imagination Library, you can donate online at scimaginationlibrary.org, or mail checks to SCIL, P.O. Box 3045; Kingsport, TN 37664. Follow the Sullivan County Imagination Library on Facebook or Twitter. Parents can enroll a child online at www.imaginationlibrary. com. Mail-in registration forms are available at local libraries and there is no cost associated with the Imagination Library. 20 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
Madalyn and Chris Manley
Carrie Schwartz and Rhoda Bliese
JOHNSON CITY COUNTRY CLUB
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
1st Annual Real Men Wear Pink Golf-a-Thon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Real men were wearing pink on the Johnson City Country Club’s golf course Monday, August 1st. The event was sponsored by Bill Gatton Mazda of Johnson City, TN. The 1st Annual Golf-a-Thon was held to benefit “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” Tri-Cities. The “Real Men” candidates raised pledges for the holes they played on the course. They were able to raise almost $23,000. Special thanks to event sponsor Bill Gatton Mazda of Johnson City and also to our food sponsors, Chick Fil A, Beef O’ Brady’s of Johnson City, and Grace Fellowship. Shane Abraham and David Meredith
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a celebration of survivorship – an opportunity to express hope and a shared determination to make the breast cancer’s last century. The Annual Walk Fundraiser will be held on Sunday, October 30th at Founder’s Park in Johnson City. Registration begins at 1:00 and the walk starts at 3:00.
Johnson City Country Club
Ken Harris (Chair), Cara Ledbetter, Holly Booker, Lea Bradley, and Ashleigh Shain
Brian Greenwell, Kevin Broyles, and Kevin Kinser
Event sponsored by Bill Gatton Mazda of Johnson City
Adam Dennison 12 golfers joined forces to raise almost $23,000
OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 21
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
MEADOWVIEW MARRIOT
6th Annual Farm
to Fork Gala STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA COFFEY
The 6th Annual Farm to Fork Gala was held on Saturday, July 30th at Meadowview Marriott in Kingsport, TN. The event is the signature fundraiser for Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD), which works to create jobs in agriculture, help farmers earn income to stay on family farms, to donate healthy produce to families in need and to teach young and old alike how to grow their own food. 100% of the money raised stays in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
Marathon Health – Health Clinic
Music was provided during the cocktail hour by Norwegian Wood and during dinner by Corbin Hayslett. There were live and blind auctions conducted during the event. Local fruits, vegetables and meat were paired with craft beer from Yee-Haw Brewing Company and wines from Reedy Creek Vineyard. For more information about Appalachian Sustainable Development, visit their website at http://asdevelop.org/ or on Facebook and Twitter.
Representing the Sessions Hotel of Bristol
Jim Maxwell, Connie Thomas, and Sylvia Crum
Lydia Graves and Justin Robinette
Tim and Ann Landis
22 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
Dorothy Meade and Whitney McConnell
Norwegian Wood
Friends having fun!
Leah Ross and Kim Davis
Jeanette and Kent Blazier
Nicole Moore, Tara Chadwell, and Kelsey Torgerson
P enn S tuart is pleased to announce
Rick J. Bearfield has joined the firm and will anchor PennStuart’s new Johnson City, Tennessee office. Rick’s presence expands PennStuart’s footprint into Johnson City, Washington County, Greeneville, and all of East Tennessee. Rick will continue to serve clients in the areas of business transactions, real estate development, and commercial litigation, as well as providing outside general counsel to the many businesses he represents.
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PENNSTUART Attorneys at Law
Rick’s extensive experience, and the deep business, transactional and litigation capabilities of PennStuart’s 40 attorneys, will provide clients with a formidable new legal platform in the Tri Cities and upper East Tennessee.
Business Transactions • Commercial Litigation • Real Estate Development • Outside General Counsel •
PennStuart.com | Johnson City (423) 282-1006 | Abingdon (276) 628-5151 Bristol (423) 793-4800 | Richmond (804) 819-1770 | Kentucky (606) 263-4966
VISIT DOWNTOWN KINGSPORT
SHOP. EAT. PLAY.
ABINGDON
Olive Oil Company THE TASTE OF GOOD HEALTH ALL OUR OILS ARE DAIRY - free
free!
SALT - free
SUGAR - free
GLUTEN - free
152 E. Main St. Abingdon, VA. 24210 276.525.1524 102 E. Main St., Suite 1 Kingsport, TN 37660 423.530.7676
AbingdonOliveOilCo.com
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DOWNTOWN
Crossfit Manic:
Bowen V STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMI CROSS
Night of Lights Gala Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler!
On July 28, 2011 Asheville Fire Capt. Jeff Bowen entered a 5 story building at 445 Biltmore Avenue with his partner, Jay Bettencourt and their team. The pair and team were separated and trapped in the burning building. Captain Bowen ran out of air and in turn became lost. Sadly, he was overtaken by smoke; Jay emerged from the building alone. Bettencourt had done crossfit with a colleague and so in turn he helped create an official “hero workout” in honor of Capt. Bowen. This was the fifth year for Crossfit’s Bowen event, however the first year a gym outside of Asheville had been approached to host a parallel program. While the workout remains the same every year, there is always a surprise. This year, during the 800m run each member lugged extra weight in the last 400m- a fire hose. As they approached the finish line, each person, exhausted from the portion of the workout that preceded the hose carrying, dropped their hose and tried to catch a breath before completing the workout. Just as in Asheville, the hope is to carry on the tradition each year in the TriCities; a different gym every year. (All proceeds from the event go to the Bowen family.)
Let the Good Times Roll at the
28th Annual Night of Lights Gala November 18th • 6:30 pm
Re
Wayne Begley
On! eu m
s
us
Hand
• Silent and live auctions • Dinner by Main Street Catering • And an all-request, sing-a-long, total party event featuring Rocky Tops Dueling Pianos!
g io n al
For tickets or other information: contact Kristine Carter at (423) 434-4263 ext. 108 or kristine@handsonmuseum.org
M
315 E. Main St. • Downtown Johnson City handsonmuseum.org
Ashlee Kizer
CrossFit Manic Mini Heroes
BOONE STREET MARKET
SEEN IN JONESBOROUGH
Get Your
Grill On PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Rachel Wheeler and Dana York (Chairman of Jonesborough Locally Grown)
On Wednesday, July 13, Boone Street Market in Jonesborough hosted a Summer Grill Out Extravaganza. There were three grill stations, six local farmers, and lots of free samples! The crowds enjoyed the music of Ben Bateson and Lee Bidgood while they enjoyed the aromas and tastes of the grilling stations. The event was part of the “Taste of Appalachia” summer series of Farm to Table Events that are being hosted this summer throughout the Tri-Cities and Mountain Empire.
Ashley Cavender (Boone St. Market Manager) and Holly Ward
Busy day at Boone St. Market Families enjoying the day!
Ben Bateson and Lee Bidgood provide music for the event
Anna Floyd (Manager of Corner Cup Coffee Shop)
OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 27
EASTMAN CABINS
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Tri-Cities St. Jude’s Contributors
Appreciation Party STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA AYERS
St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, located in Memphis, TN, is an organization of which most people within the United States have heard at one point or another. They’ve seen the commercials, and heard about the great things the folks there do. Even so, some of those great things that the St. Jude’s people do is raising funds for the hospital! St. Jude’s operates 100% off of donations, and not all of those donations are made over the phone. Often, that charitable giving coincides with a great deal of fun! On July 28th, a party was held at Eastman cabins for those who are currently contributing to the Tri- Cities’ next big St. Jude’s event! Bristol’s Pinnacle will be the site of the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer on the 24th of September. Employees of sponsoring organizations such as Bell Helicopters and Citi Financial came to the festivities and were visibly excited for the big day! In addition, longtime St. Jude’s supporters from Epsilon Sigma Alpha were in attendance, and the members chatting happily among themselves about the run. Since 1972, ESA has recognized St. Jude’s as a National Project, and has, since then, endeavored to gain as much support for the hospital as they could. Last year alone, ESA presented St. Jude’s with $18 million dollars of money they had raised! All in all, the evening was a success as the anticipation for September’s Walk/Run continued to build! Rebecca Tamer and Dan Warbel, St. Jude’s Regional Development Representatives
To sign up for the event or to learn more about the organization, check out stjude.org/walkrun today!
Ray and Betty Trent, Epsilon
KINGSPORT PUTT-PUTT GOLF COURSE
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
St. Jude’s Putt- Putt
Tournament PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY EMMA AYERS Dan Estes, Owner
Event Coordinator Tom Jayne, Doug Gillenwater, and Finley and Joanna Poteet
Jeff Cox, Jennifer Miller, Mike Cox, and Freddie Whitaker
Martha Miller and Jo Greer
In a world in which there are so many things that go wrong, the people of Gold Wing Road Riders Association and of Kingsport’s Putt-Putt Golf Course are doing so many things right. The latest example is that of August 4th’s Mini Golf Tournament, from which all of the proceeds were directly contributed to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. Dan Estes, owner of the course, hosted the event, which was planned by the local motorcyclists’ chapter of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association. Estes and Tom Jayne, the GWRRA coordinator of the evening, came together to allow the community a way of giving from their hearts while also having a great time with friends and family! Jayne revealed that Dan Estes even allowed GWRRA to use the course for no charge whatsoever. Jayne, in turn, revealed that, in his opinion, a night at his mini golf course “doesn’t get better than this!” He wasn’t wrong. Delicious food was served, two rock n’ roll bands took to the stage, and everybody golfed to their heart’s content- all for a magnificent cause. Gold Wing Road Rider’s Association wants to extend a hand of invitation to everyone in the Tri- Cities for the Golf Tournament to be held on the first Wednesday in May at Tri-Cities Golf Course in Blountville. The price for the tournament is $60 per person, and, again, all proceeds will be donated to St. Jude’s. For more information, call (423) 306- 5415.
Mike and Pam Browder
Tommy Starnes and Gary Sutherland of the Benny White Band
Susan Samples and Robert Arug
Did you miss this event? Mark your calendars! 2017’s Putt-Putt Tourney will be held the first Thursday next August. Come on out and play, because “it doesn’t get better than this.” OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 29
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
JOHNSON CITY COUNTRY CLUB
Salvation Army’s 4th Annual
Festival of Tables STORY BY PAM BLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA MCDAVID
Imaginative table settings created by local businesses and individuals set the stage for the 4th annual Salvation Army Festival of Tables held at the Johnson City Country Club on August 20. The event was organized and hosted by the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary in support of the annual Angel Tree program. Over 300 people enjoyed the creativity displayed on dozens of lavishly decorated tables, each with a unique theme and table setting for eight. State Representative John Holsclaw served as master of ceremonies for the evening, which included a buffet dinner, silent and live auctions, and plenty of entertainment. “We were amazed by the originality of the tables,” said Auxiliary President Gail Adkins. “Thanks to the support of the community and our sponsors, we raised more than $27,000, which will directly support the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program.” Major sponsors for this year’s Festival were Bill Gatton Acura/Mazda of Johnson City and Elizabethton Federal Savings Bank. Auctioneer David Collins conducted the live auction and Fiddlin’ Carson Peters, the 12-year-old musical prodigy who has achieved national recognition for his exceptional talent, entertained the crowd along with acclaimed storyteller David Joe Miller. Proceeds from the Festival of Tables will directly support the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, which serves children in need throughout Carter, Unicoi and Washington counties. In 2015, over 2,700 local children, who otherwise would have had nothing for Christmas, received gifts thanks to the Angel Tree program. This year, the number is expected to rise and your support is needed more than ever. To adopt an angel or to make a donation to the program, contact the Salvation Army office located at 204 W. Walnut Street in Johnson City, or call the office at 423.926.2101.
Vicki Lamie and Charlotte Harkleroad
Neil and Heather Lewis, with Cara and Doug Ledbetter
Representative John Holsclaw and Gail Adkins
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Carol Transou, Gaye Helms, Pam Jameson, and Bedford Transou
Bill Alton, David Joe Miller, and Anita Alton
Karen Phillips, Gina Brown, and Sue Johnson
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
FOOD CITY
Kingsport City Schools Hall of Fame
Induction Luncheon STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMI CROSS
Family, friends, and faculty gathered in the food city conference room to dine and to celebrate the induction of Margaret Bays, William “Bill” Hull, Elizabeth “Lib” Dudney, and Cecil Puckett into the Kingsport City School’s Hall of Famethis was the second annual induction. Food City catered a delicious lunch as Tennessee’s Education Commissioner, Candice McQueen, opened the ceremony with kind words and many congratulations to this year’s inductees. The hall of fame ceremony recognizes the teachers who made the biggest impact on students and in the teaching community. Margaret Bays was an educator for 58 years and after more than 30 of those years spent with Kingsport City Schools, she retired in 2010. Bays was elected in the Modern Era category.
Dr. Lyle Ailshie
Elizabeth Dudney retired in 1985, she was a science teacher at Sevier Junior High and Dobyns-Bennett. After retiring, Dudney was elected to the Kingsport Board of Education where she served as vice president and as president. She was elected to the Tradition Era category. William Hull taught English, Bible literature, and journalism; he also coached football. He spent 39 of his 42 years as an educator at Dobyns-Bennett high school where he retired in 2009. Hull was posthumously elected to the Modern Era category. Cecil Puckett after being in the armed forces, coach Puckett joined Kingsport City Schools in 1957- he taught at both Sevier and Robinson middle schools and at Dobyns-Bennett. Puckett was elected to the Tradition Era category. After their meal, the ceremony slowly came to a close as folks passed around a microphone to share stories of the inductees- funny stories and heart warming stories alike.
Candice McQueen
Andy True
MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Oldsmobile Car Collectors PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY JAMI CROSS
An array of music from the 50’s through the 70’s brought a marked liveliness to the Oldsmobile Nationals Meet, hosted jointly by the OCA, Music City Rockets of Nashville, and Dixie Olds Club of Atlanta, GA. The rally began with tours- of Bristol Motor Speedway, The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and Bays Mountain Park – on Wednesday July 20th and ended with an awards ceremony on Saturday July 23rd. Each state has their own branch of the OCA (Oldsmobile Club of America) - appropriately named per state. Collectors and other participants, judges for example, gathered at MeadowView Marriott in Kingsport from various places across the United States; some to observe and others to show off trailer queens or daily drivers. There are a vast amount of categories for judges to consider- year, make, model, pace cars, the Cutlass alone bears several categories all it’s own. Judges look for things such as authenticity, spirit items or memorabilia, and any documentation proving the validity of the vehicle. After being judged, trailer queens were returned to their trailer, others chose to keep their car in the yard for the onlooker’s enjoyment or education. Pace cars and racecars were a majority at this year’s meet but one Leo Stutzman of Brandon, FL proudly displayed his vehicle as he has owned that particular car since 1956- for which he traded a 1953 Eighty Eight four door and $500 cash. Despite the heat, the cars drew quite a crowdsome old some young, some local and some from far far away- most of which are eagerly anticipating the Oldsmobile Nationals Meet 2017.
Ken and Sharon
Leo Stutzman and his Oldsmobile
Retro Radiance
Associated Orthopaedics __ Introduction
Occupation: Orthopaedic Surgeon You recently joined Associated Orthopaedics. Can you tell us why you chose the Tri-Cities area to practice? “It seems like the first half of your life you try to get away from where you grew up, and the second half of your life, you look for some place like the place you grew up. We were looking for a place with elevation, vegetation, and not a lot of population - a place where I could do my job, and we could be happy and safely raise our kids. We love it here.” We hear that you’re an adrenaline junkie. Can you tell us about that?
Associated Orthopaedics Established 1953 34 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
“All my hobbies require signing waivers. When I turned 18, I did what my mother forbade me to do and bought a street bike...turns out I’m hard wired to move at 150 miles an hour.”
“
Helping people is what I do. It’s what I love. It’s hard to explain the feeling I get from making an impact on someone’s life.
“
Rumor has it that you are a 17-year veteran of the U.S. Navy? “That is correct. I originally joined the Navy just to pay for medical school...but ended up serving 17 years, and not regrettably. I’ve really enjoyed it. Do you specialize? Yes. I enjoy hand and upper extremity work. Area providers know me for taking care of anything from the collar bone to the finger tips.
Now accepting new patient at Associated Orthopaedics.
423.245.3161 2202 John B. Dennis Hwy, Suite 100 Kingsport, TN 37660
OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 35
Gangster Gala n ovem be r 4 • 7-1 1 pm ki ngsport fa rmers ma rket dinner ticket $60
party ticket $30
7 pm -11 pm dinner - auction - dancing
9 pm -11 pm auction - dancing
21 and Up Admitted • Buy tickets at www.JLKingsport.org
PROCEEDS TO SUPPORT JLK PROGRAMS, GRANTS, & SCHOLARSHIPS
THE FARMER’S MARKET
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Netherland Inn Low Country Boil STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA MCDAVID
The beautiful Kingsport Farmer’s Market was an ideal setting for one of the city’s most anticipated yearly events. On an evening that certainly felt like the Low Country, the Netherland Inn Low Country Boil was once again a huge success. More than thirty boilers cooked enough shrimp, potatoes, corn and sausage to feed hundreds of hungry event goers. In traditional style, the food was poured out of the pot on to the table for all to dig in and enjoy. Dinner was followed by an amazing performance by Spirit of the Soul, a local party band. They got everyone moving and grooving the rest of the night! The Netherland Inn Complex is the Centerpiece of the City’s 20-year “Riverwalk”/Kingsport on the Holston re-development project. It is essential the financial support for its continued existence be insured. In the early years of the Netherland Inn Association, federal grants were available and much of the restoration was financed by these grants. Present day, the Inn is maintained and expanded completely with Association dues, memorial donations, gift shop sales and fund raising events such as the Low Country Boil. All proceeds from this year and every other previous year will be and have been to maintain the Inn. To learn more visit thenetherlandinn.com.
The NEST Fragrance Collection Luxury Scented Candles An exquisite collection of luxury scented candles available at Foxglove Antiques makes the perfect gift this season. The collection combines color, texture, and fragrance to enhance ones every day living and entertaining experience.
FOXGLOVE ANTIQUES
Fine English & American Antiques 289 W. Main Street Abingdon, Va 276-628-8598
Don’t know what to get the man in your life? How about a unique gift that will produce a delicious result? Everything you need to create the next best brew is now available at Libation Station. The brewmaster in your life will love it, you’ve got to come check it out!
Give the gift of beauty this holiday season with a special gift card from Lloyd’s on Shelby. Their trained professionals can give you a new look this season with cut, color, perm or smoothing treatments. Or take advantage of a manicure, pedicure, polish, lip or chin wax, brow wax or body wax. They use and offer for purchase ALTERNA and BIO-IONIC professional haircare.
LLOYD’S ON SHELBY 430 Shelby Street Kingsport, TN 423-378-4042
LIBATION STATION 4471 N Roan Street Johnson City, TN 423-928-6667 libationplaza.com
SIMON SEBB DESIGNS is a Sterling Silver Line of Jewelry that is chunky, yet incredibly lightweight and comfortable. Each piece is handcrafted. The business is family owned and our from Israel. This would make great Holiday gift idea this season and is available at the Galleria in Bristol.
THE GALLERIA
3101 Lee Highway, Suites 4 & 5 Bristol, VA 276-591-5707
Red HOT Special $25 1 Cayenne Fused Olive Oil 1 Cinnamon-Pear Dark Balsamic Condimento
ABINGDON OLIVE OIL COMPANY 152 E. Main St. 2W Abingdon, VA 24210
102 E. Main St., Suite 1 Kingsport, TN 37660 38 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
A unique present sure to bring a smile to that special lady in your life. Get this monogrammed purse exclusively at Austin Springs Spa.
AUSTIN SPRINGS SPA
www.AustinSpringsSpa.com 423-979-6403 Located on the Lower Level of The Carnegie Hotel, Johnson City
Farm Hoppers Jumping Animals The perfect bouncy gift for toddlers. Gift boxed and complete with pump.
BEAR N’ FRIENDS TOY SHOPPE Transform your backyard or indoor garden into a whimsical world full of wonder! You can create your very own fairyland collection of fairy garden supplies and accessories at T Tilley Gallery and Garden.
107 E. Market Street Downtown Kingsport, TN (423) 245-5046
T TILLEY GARDEN
Everyone loves their Tervis Tumbler! This double wall insulated tumbler keeps drinks hot or cold! Choose from many designs and colors. Available at Alfresco Lifestyles.
100 North Court Street Abingdon, Va 276-525-4880
ALFRESCO LIFESTYLES
450 Commerce Drive (I-81 Exit 17, near Hampton Inn) Abingdon, VA 276-628-4797 www.alfrescolifestyles.com
Versatile wine coolers $34- $54
TURQUOISE BOUTIQUE
238 E. Market Street Kingsport, TN 37660 423-343-9627 Turquoiseboutiquektg.com
Enjoy a world of Archipelago Botanicals - where warm candlelight, exquisite fragrance, and soothing products make a house a home. Each candle is hand poured, using only the finest ingredients and fragrance oils available. Try one today, sold exclusively at Magnolia Home Furnishings in Abingdon, Va.
MAGNOLIA
180 East Main Street Abingdon, Va 276-206-8131
Sticks & Stones Gameday Bangles “Be your fashionable best on Gameday and everyday!”
SHELLZ
LITTLE BOTTOMS BOUTIQUE
107 E. Market Street Downtown Kingsport, TN (423) 245-5046
1375 Volunteer Parkway, Suite 5A Bristol, TN 423.794.0446
Discover UNO de 50’s edgy collection of jewelry from Spain and original 100% handcrafted designs. Discover Exclusive Styles and Quality!
SIEGNER’S
226 East Main Street Abingdon, Va 150 West Main Street lobby level of the Martha Hotel & Spa Abingdon, Va 276-739-9934 OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 39
We Believe in Handmade …. Support Local Artist in the heART of Downtown These handmade Wine Nooks would make a great holiday gift this season! They are also great way to serve wine to your guest at your next Holiday party.
CINDY SAADEH FINE ARTS GALLERY 128 E. Market Street Kingsport, TN 37660 423-245-2800 www.cindysaadeh.com
Rejuvenation & Relaxation Package from R&R Medicine includes: -1 hour therapeutic Facial using medical grade Jan Marini products -Eyebrow wax and shape -Scalp Massage -Hand Massage -Infra red Anti aging Sauna session Are you having trouble finding the right gift for the person who has it all. We’ve got the perfect idea. Give them a gift certificate from Little Cake. Tucked into the heart of downtown Kingsport, we bake fresh cupcakes every morning and brew lots of coffee. We are passionate that life is about the small things.
All for $95. 28 Midway Street Lower Level Bristol, TN 37620 423-217-1174 www.rrmedicine.com
231 Broad Street Downtown Kingsport, TN 423-765-2992 www.littlecakekingsport.com
217 E. Unaka Ave Johnson City, TN (423) 302-0858
40 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
104 Court Street NE Abingdon, VA 276-623-0303
Customize your favorite bottle of olive oil this holiday season to make the perfect gift. No matter what the occasion might be…wedding, corporate company gift, or Holiday Party… stand out with your custom printed bottle available at Olive Oil Divine in Johnson City. Place your order today!
OLIVE OIL DIVINE
2517 N. Roan Street Johnson City, TN 423-707-7087 www.oliveoildivine.com
These unique baskets with handcrafted soaps and bath products, is sure to be a hit with that person on your list that has it all.
PRESTIGE AESTHETICS
PERSNICKETY
R&R MEDICINE
LITTLE CAKE
Obagi is a uniquely powerful skin care line that offers a wide range of benefits, including anti-aging and rejuvenating actions. The range features many regimens that work together to achieve a targeted goal using high-quality, potent ingredients and well-researched technologies.
French Kande is clad in sterling silver or brass and hand- finished by California artisans. Many feature blemishes and color variations that contribute to their one-of-a-kind characteristics.
All Natural, Fresh Goat Milk, Shea Butter, Kid Friendly, Babassu Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Avocado Oil.
FOR THE LOVE OF SUDS
119 East Market Street Downtown Kingsport, TN 423-416-1887 www.ForTheLoveOfSuds.com
Give the gift of beautiful Lashes! Latisse Buy 1 Get 1 Free sale in October Plus, get a gift card for a free facial with Latisse purchase. Call for a Free Consultation 423-328-0488 Give the gift of therapy! Improves circulation, quickly recover from stiffness and soreness while burning 500-800 calories per session!
CHANGES MEDICAL SPA 106 Pinnacle Drive #106 Johnson City, TN
CRYORX
1061 Old Abingdon Hwy, Suite 8 (I-81 Exit 5, Black Wolf Plaza) Bristol, Va. 24201 276-644-3600 www.cryorxwbc.com
Rewined, Lysse, Black Swan, Others Follow, M.Rena, Volatile Shoes, Love Poppy Jewelry and many great gifts. Come in and mention our ad in VIPSEEN get 10% Off your purchase now through October 31 to celebrate our 1 year anniversary.
RUMORS BOUTIQUE
3119 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City TN 37601 423-262-0433
Gift certificates are available at Millennium. We offer very competitive pricing for car detailing starting at $25 for a basic cleaning.
MILLENNIUM AUTO COLLISION REPAIRS LLC 2005 Brookside Lane Kingsport, TN 423-392-2001 www.mill-autobody.com
Frederic Duclos is an award winning French designer of contemporary sterling and 14 karat combinations of jewelry and gifts. Shop Goodman Jewelers in Abingdon this Holiday Season and choose from a variety of styles.
GOODMAN JEWELERS 108 E. Main Street Abingdon, VA 276-676-3110
The Gazebo Party Shop in downtown Kingsport has more than enough for everyone’s Holiday needs including two of their best selling items, the Captain Rodney’s Boucan Glaze and their Wind and Willow mixes. Gazebo is the only place in the Tri-Cities to find Captain Rodney’s and if you have not tried it yet, hurry in! Tis boucan glaze always sells fast and makes the perfect gift for the foodie in your life!
GAZEBO PARTY AND GIFT SHOP
Simply Southern tees only available at Johnson City location.
BEAR N’ FRIENDS
Peerless Centre 2519 North Roan Street Johnson City, TN 37601 423-282-0510
225 East Market Street Kingsport, TN 423-245-0771 facebook/GazeboPartyShop
OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 41
SHOP LOCAL...SHOP HISTORIC Monday - Saturday 9am - 6pm
Custom Jewelry. Personal Service.
276.676.3110 • www.goodmanjewelers.biz 108 E. Main Street | Abingdon, VA
DOWNTOWN ABINGDON, VA magnolia
HOME DECOR|LIGHTING|PILLOWS|DESIGN SERVICES
IN ROANOKE 4710 STARKEY ROAD 540.204.4774 MON - SAT 10 TO 6
IN ABINGDON 180 E. MAIN STREET 276.206.8134 TUES - SAT 11 TO 5
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
DOWNTOWN
Umoja 2016 PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Umoja is Swahili for “Unity” which is to be in harmony, and of one accord, to combine and to include all. The Umoja Arts and Cultural, Inc. Board has provided Northeast Tennessee with a variety of entertainment and education opportunities over several decades. The celebration includes a multitude of food and merchandise vendors, and a variety of entertainers. Two stages are set up for the various acts and street performers could be seen throughout the festival, entertaining the crowds.
Ashley Lowe, Karen Sullivan, and Laura Terry
The 20th Annual Festival was held on September 2 and 3rd in the streets of downtown Johnson City. In addition to the music and shopping, Digital Animation films were presented at Hands On Museum and a parade was held on Saturday morning.
Enjoying the festival!
Hungarian Sausage King
Gospel Fest
44 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
What’s a festival without Cotton Candy?
Sax and Liz with their delicious ice cream!
Angel
Mary Ann and Ken King
Madison and Alex of ETSU Student Newspaper
SEEN IN BLUFF CITY
CHRIST THE SAVIOR GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
Tri-Cities
Greek Fest PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The 5th Annual Tri-Cities Greek Festival was held on Saturday, August 27th. The festival was hosted by Christ the Savior Greek Orthodox Church, which is located in Bluff City, TN. Go ahead and mark your calendars for the last Saturday in August of 2017, this is one event you don’t want to miss! Father Stephen Mathewes conducted church tours every hour and answered questions about the Greek Orthodox Church. He said that the church opens their spiritual home to let the community get to know the congregation. The church celebrates the “Beauty of Wonder”. Memebers of the congregation have worked hard to present the Greek Fest to the community. Guests were invited to enjoy traditional Greek foods, drinks, music and dance. They also hosted a Fundraising Sale and Rummage Sale.
Christ the Savior Youth Dance Troupe
More than 1,500 people from the Tri-Cities area attended the festival and enjoyed the hospitality of the church!
Christ the Savior Greek Orthodox Church
Authentic Greek Music
Nick Panos grilling delicious food!
Fred Lockett serving wine and Ouzo
Grrrrr!
Laurie Andrew and Lucy Fleming buy plenty of baked goods!
46 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
Ft. Stephen Mathewes, pastor
ALLANDALE MANSION
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Symphony of the Mountains
Music at the Mansion STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA COFFEY
There was melodious music at a beautiful Kingsport landmark on Sunday, July 24th. Symphony of the Mountains Summer Concert series presented “Music To Your Arts Desire�. Music selections included Hollywood soundtracks, light classical and patriotic favorites, under the direction of Cornelia Laemmli Orth. Those attending brought their own picnics and set-up for the event. A picnic decorating contest was conducted during the event to honor favorite artists. There was a lot of laughter, fun, and wonderful music at the mansion!
Melissa Roberts, General Manager of Symphony of the Mountains
Friends gather for the event
Bree Jordan award winning soprano from Fredericksburg, VA
Cornelia Laemmli Orth
Jorge R. Ochoa, Assistant ConcertMaster
RECIPE DEVELOPMENT, FOOD STYLING, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND ARTICLE BY LIZ BUSHONG
Pre-Serve-It! Serve it up Sassy
Can
Some
Jam!
Got Jam?
Do you have fond memories of your mom or grandmother in the kitchen peeling and dicing apples for apple butter? Or perhaps you remember the sweet aroma of simmering berries on the stove as she was preparing to can your favorite jam? The sound of jostling jars, rattling pot bands and the sudden unexpected pop of sealed lids are all part of the home canning experience. Whether you call it canning, putting up, or preserving, it’s all about savoring the season’s fruit to save and serving for later. So gather your jars and fruits its time to Preserve It and Can some Jam! Canning is preserving food such as garden vegetables, pickles & relishes, soups, meats, jam, and jellies. The old-fashioned traditional practice of home canning is making a come-back and starting with jam is an easy way to step into this preserving craft. The recipe we are sharing is the Cranberry Apple Jam. Autumns two favorite flavor twins, ground cinnamon and nutmeg, spice the well balanced tartness of the cranberries and sweetness of the golden delicious apples. This jam is the perfect spread on toast, bagels, pancakes, even a glaze for your Thanksgiving turkey. To keep canning simple for jams and jellies you will need to know how to use a water bath canning technique for preserving the fruits. Water
bath canning gives the preserved jams a good long shelf life. Stored in a cool pantry the jams & jellies will last up to one year, maybe longer. Fruits are high acid foods along with salsa, sauces, and tomatoes and perform best with the water bath method. The other method is pressure canning that works best for preserving vegetables, meats, poultry and seafood as these foods require a higher temperature to kill the bacteria in them. To learn more about pressure canning and preserving foods go to www.freshfoods.com. Preserving jam can be made anytime of the year since frozen and fresh fruits can be picked up at your local fresh market, but to capture the vine ripe flavor it is best to can in the month the fruit ripens. Canning jam makes a perfect gift and will give you a great sense of accomplishment as well as preserve an American tradition. So what are you waiting for? Got Jars…Got Fruit…Got Recipe? Pre-serve it and can some jam. OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 49
Serve it up Sassy
6 Easy Steps to Preserving
Jams & Jellies
ESSENTIAL TOOLS: • Jar Lifter-tool lifts jars firmly and securely in and out of hot water • Wooden & large spoon- stirring hot fruit & filling jars • Large Dutch oven or stainless steel stockpot • Wide Mouth funnel-cuts down on spills and makes filling jars easy • Canning jars & lids- choose heatproof pint or half pint canning jars • Canner & canning rack or large stock pot • Colander or fine mesh-sieve to strain seeds or mash • Emulsion stick blender-for smooth jams and jellies • Pot holders-kitchen hand towels STEP 1: STERILIZE JARS & LIDS Inspect all jars, lids, & bands for cracks, nicks, debris from past usage. In large canner or stockpot, fill with water threefourths full. Set jars without lids or bands in pot submerge to sit flat in canning rack. Water level should cover the jars at least 2 inches of the top. Cover with lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium to keep jars warm until ready to fill. In small saucepan, fill with water and heat on medium but not boil. Remove from heat and add lids only and keep warm until ready to use. STEP 2: PREPARE FRUIT Read Cranberry-Apple Jam recipe–gather ingredients, measure sugar, spices and prepare berries- apples. Rinse & inspect berries, remove discolored ones, peel apples and dice. Fill Dutch oven with cranberries, apples, sugar, and water. Stir constantly with wooden spoon over mediumhigh heat until berries pop and mixture thickens. STEP 3: EMULSIFY FRUIT If you like smooth jam, you will need to emulsify or strain mixture through a sieve. Using stick emulsifier process mixture in Dutch oven until desired smoothness. Add spices and lemon juice and cook until desired thickness, stirring constantly. STEP 4: FILLING JARS Turn up the heat on the canner with jars to bring to a boil once again. After boiling for 5 minutes, use jar lifter and remove hot jars from water canning bath. Drain jars and place on clean kitchen towel upright. With wide mouth funnel resting on top of jar, spoon the hot fruit mixture to the hot jars, filling to within a half inch of rim. Carefully tap jar on towel to settle fruit mixture. STEP 5: SEAL & PROCESS JARS Working quickly,wipe rims of jars with clean damp paper towel. If you skip this part, you may not get your lids to seal during processing. Top jars with warmed lids and rings. Tighten lids just until closed. Do not screw on the lids super tight, just so the lid catches. Place canning rack in stockpot or canner. Using jar lifter, transfer filled jars into rack and lower into rack and boiling water. Bring 50 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
water back to a rolling boil cover and process for 15 minutes. Make sure the water level is 2” above the jar lids. Add hot water if necessary, increase boil time 5 additional minutes to ensure proper processing time. STEP 6: REMOVE JARS & LET COOL Using the jar lifter, carefully remove jars from canner and place on clean kitchen towel. Allow jars cool at room temperature for 24 hours. You should hear a popping sound as the jars begin to cool. If the lids when pushed in the middle bounce, you did not get a good seal and will have to replace the lid with a new one and reprocess for 15 minutes. You can store jam in refrigerator if you do not want to reprocess. Label and date the jars, store sealed jars without the bands in a cool dry place up to 1 year. Store opened jars and any unsealed jars in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks.
Cranberry-Apple Jam www.lizbushong.com
INGREDIENTS: 8 cups of peeled and diced Golden Delicious apples (5-6 large apples) 4 cups of whole cranberries-fresh or frozen 6 cups granulated sugar 1-cup water 1-large lemon zest and juiced 1-teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Prepare fruit. Peel, core and dice to ½” apples. Rinse and sort cranberries, remove damaged or dried berries. Combine the apples, cranberries, sugar and water in a large pot (use a big one, this jam will bubble) over medium high heat. Bring to a boil, skimming off the foam that develops on the top of the fruit. Cook for 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries pop and the apples soften. 2. Add the lemon zest, juice and simmer until the liquid in the pot begins to thicken (apples and cranberries are naturally high in pectin you won’t need to add liquid pectin to set this jam. Just continue to cook jam until thick and syrup-y). If you like smoother jam, emulsify or mash mixture. I used a hand stick emulsifier. If you like chunky fruit keep as is. 3. Spoon hot jam into prepared jars, leave ½ “ space at top of jar, wipe inside and around top edges of jar with damp paper towel, attach warm lid and bands. Process in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes. Start timing after water comes to a boil. 4. Great for gift giving. Serve this jam as a glaze for ham or turkey, a jam for sandwiches, cream cheese block, ice cream topping or pancake syrup. For step by step instruction go to lizbushong.com To serve as a glaze or syrup topping, microwave ½ -cup of jam in microwaveable bowl 30 seconds until melted. Stir until smooth. Yield: 7-8 ounce jars + 2-4 ounce jars
Make a Statement, Make it Sassy and Make it Yours!® Liz Bushong is an expert in the three-dimensional art of entertaining. She transforms simple dining occasions into beautiful and memorable moments by adding a touch of her own “sassy” style. For the past several years Liz been entrusted to decorate the White House for several Holidays. She is a featured monthly guest chef/designer on Daytime Tri-cities, Daytime Blue Ridge and other television shows. Liz is the author of the Just Desserts and Sweets & Savories cookbook as well as a contributing writer for VIPSEEN and Bella Magazine. For more information about Liz go to www.lizbushong.com or www.serveitupsassy.com
Annoying People; Can We Truly Avoid Them? We all know them and try to avoid them -- annoying people. They grate everyone’s nerves and personally make me want to chew my own arm off and beat myself to death with it. Unfortunately, annoying people are inevitable and we can’t control their actions, but hopefully we can learn to control our reactions to them. So, let’s discuss a few of the most annoying types of people and how to deal with them effectively. 1. The Inconsiderate Idiots They are the people with bad table manners and no social skills. They chew with their mouths open, spit when they are speaking to you, and pick their noses in public. They are the men who laugh about passing gas and the women who belch in public without even saying, “Excuse me”. They are the mouth breathers of society who have no sense of personal space and they are oblivious to the fact that everyone is appalled by their uncivilized behavior. Inconsiderate idiots are the people who punch your arm using brute force to get your attention and they laugh while their children kick you in the shins. BY BETH STREET
I am Beth Street and I approve this message.
The best way to deal with an inconsiderate idiot is to avoid making eye contact with them and pray they don’t see you. If that doesn’t work, start scratching yourself and tell them that you have a rash that the doctor says is highly contagious. 2. The Know-It-Alls These are the people who think they are never wrong and seem to know everything except how completely annoying they really are. They start every sentence with the word “actually” and they love to tell you how you can do things more efficiently. They can turn any lighthearted conversation into a debate and turn your sarcastic joke into a life lesson. They are experts at giving unsolicited advice and will quickly become your ‘life coach’ if you allow them to see your weaknesses. Know-it-alls spend their days reposting Snopes articles on their friend’s social media pages and they usually spend their nights alone, because people don’t want to be around them. There’s no help for a know-it-all. ‘Once a know-it-all, always a know-it-all’, so don’t waste your breath. Just pretend to agree with everything they say, so they will stop talking. 3. The Whiny Complainer Whiny complainers are energy vampires that are never satisfied with anything or anyone. They can suck the fun right out of any activity, totally depress you, and make you feel like you need to go home and have a good cry. They are the people who will point out the worst in even the happiest situation. Whiny complainers are easily offended and live in a constant state of butt-hurt. They love to wallow in their own misery and want everyone else to wallow in it with them. The best way to deal with a whiny complainer is to counter every complaint with something positive and let them know that no one really likes them. Because it’s true, no one likes a whiny complainer. Whiny complainers don’t even like themselves. 4. The Person Who Offers Too Much Information They say the devil is in the details, but the TMI person does not know this. TMI people will tell you every last disgusting detail of their gastrointestinal virus and they don’t care if you throw up while hearing it. These are the men who want to give the world the sordid details of the awful breakup with their baby mama. They are the women who give every last detail of their childbirth story and they believe you sincerely want to hear it. TMI people do not possess the social skills necessary to understand that the repulsed look on your face means that they need to shut up. So, how do you handle someone who doesn’t understand the concept of socially acceptable “sharing”? You have to “one-up” them. You have to tell them a tale so outrageous that it makes their own story look like a fairy tale. They have a dramatic childbirth story? Tell them how you delivered your own twins by cesarean section in the car on the way to the hospital. I promise it will shut them up. 5. The Bragging Faker This person wants everyone to think his/her life is beyond perfect. Bragging fakers are very insecure and feel a strong need to impress everyone. They are the people who want you to know that their kids make straight A’s, that they’re going to Hawaii for their anniversary, and that people half their age hit on them often. None of it is true, but they want you to know about it nonetheless. They fish for compliments by posting flattering, overly photo-shopped pictures of themselves on their social media accounts at least thrice daily. They spend their days making memes with their own picture and they spend their nights on Facebook bragging about all the good deeds they’ve done. Bragging fakers think everyone sees them as fabulous; when in reality, everyone is just rolling their eyes. Dealing with bragging fakers is simple. They usually self-destruct over time, so all you have to do is wait…and block them on social media so you don’t go insane while you’re waiting. This is obviously not an exhaustive list of annoying types, because there aren’t enough trees on the planet to make the paper it would take to list and discuss all the types of annoying people in the world. I should probably also mention that the views expressed here are my own and in no way reflect the views of VIPSEEN Magazine. 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
52 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
LIGERO CIGAR LOUNGE
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
Dominican Big Leaguer
Cigar Event STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA MCDAVID
Ligero Cigar Lounge welcomed Francisco Almonte’s Dominican Big Leaguer Cigars Wednesday July 20th for an evening of great friendship delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres and of course excellent cigar tasting. The Sublime Cigar line was also introduced and both were well received at Ligero, as members and guests were able to try and purchase their own.
Jeff Greeley, Like Siele, and Party Qualls
Founded in 2013, Dominican Big Leaguer Cigars is located in Tamboril, a small town that focuses on manufacturing cigars. Founder Francisco Almonte was introduced to tobacco by his father, a master roller for Arturo Fuente Cigar Factory. Imagine having a cigar created by a man who was taught and heavily influenced by two of the most famous cigar makers…that is a Dominican Big Leaguer. It is made with passion, love and experience. Find them at Ligero Cigar Lounge.
Sam Huddleston and Linnie Brasfield
Ed Hodges and Mary Kilpatrick
Kyle Davis and Matt Karth
Zach Turner and Ryan Kohl
OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 53
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
DOWNTOWN
Pokémon GO: Catch ‘Em All in
Downtown Kingsport STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JON LESTER
Unless you’ve been living under a “regirock,” you have either heard about Pokémon GO, or have even played it every day, hour by hour, minute by minute—don’t go lying about it either; I know your type. If you go beyond the basic premise of the game (to locate, capture, battle and train Pokémon), you’ve begun to notice and observe that this game—whether you find it to be sillier than Team Rocket’s catch phrases, or not—has “bellossomed” into something far greater; it has spurned many to participate in an activity that has shown to be healthy both mentally and physically.
Quinn Ripper
Katie Sobota and Pedro Garcia
Julie Mills and William Dixon
July 30th, 2016, The Downtown Kingsport Association noticed all of the positive effects the game has displayed thus far, and wanted to take it even further by hosting The DKA: Pokémon GO Catch ‘Em All event. In the Pokémon games, the leading mantra is ‘Gotta Catch ‘Em All’; along with that, ‘Being the Very Best’ is also a mantra in the games. Prior to the event, trainers were presented with a form to fill out while on their journey—which I thought would be interesting to take the event a step further by adding a competition element; highlighting being the very best. However, what was most rewarding was observing the diversity in ages, coming together as one to assure all players (trainers) made it to Victory Road.
Kobe McCloud, Sylvester Jenkins, and Joey Salyer
Shawn Cress and Chloe Cress
A special thank you to Kristie Leonard with the City of Kingsport.
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Red Shoe Masquerade
NOV 5TH AT THE VENUE 301 E. Main Street • 2nd Floor of the Kings Centre • Johnson City Cocktails at 6 PM • Dinner at 7pm featuring locally sourced cuisine Tickets $70 • Black Tie • Wear Red Shoes & Masks 423-461-3500 • WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CASANETN
Ryan Barton
Ocular October Four Fall Eyewear Essentials Words by Jon Lester
Time. Our lives tend to revolve around it. We either want more of it or less of it—depending on the time of day, and the time of year, I’m sure. We FALL back, and we SPRING forward; so why not let our eyewear reflect that. The ever so popular round-framed eyeglasses have been quite the eye-catcher since the Roaring Twenties. This particular frame of choice is best paired with a square face shape— now, that’s the bee’s knees.
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Manufactured since 1956 by American optical designer, Raymond Stegeman (Ray-Ban), the wayfarer style is one of the most—if not THE most—iconic optical style in history. Your dad probably owns a pair; and his brother, his dad, his cousin, Uncle Steve—we all have an Uncle Steve —and you have no excuse not to own a pair. Whether you’re from Madison Avenue, or Madisonville, TN, its a necessity to don (Draper) a pair. This frame is best paired with a triangular face shape. *Working for an ad agency is not required*
We associate fall with color hues that consist of chocolate browns, forest green, plum, burgundy, etc. But don’t let that keep you from going beyond Narnia —even it is a part of your wardrobe. Opt for frames that are translucent in color. I’m fully aware we cannot all be the Alan type; perhaps you’re more of the Mr. Tumnus type. If so, I suggest half framed eyewear—for your half-man, half-goat lifestyle.
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There’s a reason certain things are used over and over—because they work! Opt for a classic black frame for your optical wear. And for optimal optical selection, the key here is to go with a frame that is wider than they are tall. Also, you may want to forego noticeable nosepads that would perch on those round, yet handsome, cheeks of yours—how’s that for an optical illusion?
Follow. Like. Be SEEN.
FEATURE
You’re Such A Square! or are you?
A FACE SHAPE GUIDE FOR EYEWEAR
Most of our decision-making starts with our eyes. We do it on a daily basis with food, and I’m sure you’ve been guilty of doing so when choosing eyewear; but, don’t worry, I’m not here to frame you—heh I’m merely here to help you with an In Your Face Guide to face shapes, and the frame style that fits.
Think Angular! A square face shape has sharp and angular jaw lines and cheekbones. Celebrity Comparison: Brad Pitt
It’s pretty self-explanatory. Wide at the jawline and narrows as you reach the forehead: A Triangle. Celebrity Comparison: Ryan Gosling
The easily framed, oval face. Your jawline, cheekbones, and brow are equal in shape. Celebrity Comparison: Jake Gyllenhaal
A round face shape mirrors a square face shape. Instead of sharp features, a rounded face shape has soft (round) features. Celebrity Comparison: Jack Black OCTOBER 2016 | VIPSEEN | 55
LEUKAPHERESIS: ADVERTORIAL
A NEW WAY TO GIVE P
hysicians Plasma Alliance, PPA, is an industry leader in the collection and distribution of biological specimens because of their highly specialized facilities and years of experience in research. However, PPA Research Group, an affiliate of the parent company, is tackling a rare laboratory technique that is not only unique to the area but invaluable to research companies nationwide. The laboratory technique is known as leukapheresis, a safe apheresis procedure in which the white blood cells of whole blood are targeted and separated to produce a bulk product. Much like plasmapheresis, whole blood is taken from the donor, targeted cells are separated through centrifuge technology in the apheresis machine, and all vital materials (red blood cells and plasma) are returned to the donor. These packaged white blood cells are the immunological cells of the body, or the fighter cells of one’s immune system, and are crucial for the healing process of the body and defense against foreign pathogens. What these white blood cells normally do in the body can be emulated in research in order to better understand how these cells react when chronic illnesses affect the body (i.e. cancer and leukemia). Leukapheresis facilities are few and far between across the country. There are only a handful of facilities on the east coast alone that are capable of carrying out this procedure because of the specification in cell targeting, highly regulated storage of the vital materials, and experience of laboratory technicians. PPA Research Group has been granted an IRB-approved study to collect and distribute leukapheresis products for the benefit of research innovations. It is important for these research companies to have a consistent inflow of healthy white blood cells to fill out these test kits and conduct the studies necessary to create new therapies for chronic illnesses. For example, leukapheresis products are highly prevalent in cancer research, specifically in relation to the CD markers on target cells to
see why certain malignant cells proliferate and how the white blood cells can fend off this unwarranted reaction. Without your donation, these research studies could not be conducted. Without your support, these new therapies would not be on the market. PPA and PPA Research Group are dedicated to improving quality of life by providing superior blood and plasma products. If you are interested in making a difference in research and healthcare innovations, give PPA a call or visit us online to find out more information. All participants are compensated for time and donation.
VIPBEAUTY
Blonde Options. BY SHERRI JESSEE
Beautiful Blonde hair is quickly transformed into a variety of glamorous styles.
Look One:
1. Mist hair lightly with a heat protecting spray and wrap on a 1� Sultra Beauty Bombshell curling rod. 2.
Brush hair out with a soft bristle brush to form waves. Carve in a deep side part and lightly spray with a working spray for shine and to smooth out and fly-away hairs.
Look Two:
1. Brush hair upside down and spray the underneath with a medium hold hair spray. 2. Flip hair back over, direct the hair way from the face and lightly mist again with your hair spray.
Look Three: 1.
Sweep hair over to the side and do a loose Dutch braid. Begin with three small sections on the left front. As you braid, working your way across the face toward the nape, gather hair into each section and cross it under to the other side. Secure end with a tiny elastic.
2. Beginning at the bottom and working your way up to the top, pull strands out from the braid to make it larger. 58 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
Look Four: 1. 2. 3.
Sweep hair over to the side and do a loose Dutch braid. Secure end with a tiny elastic. Beginning at the bottom and working your way up to the top, pull strands out from the braid to make it larger. Twist up the tail of the braid and pin to form a chignon.
Get the Results You Expect!
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Make the right move, today!
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Redefining Concierge
KINGSPORT AQUATIC CENTER
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
Summer Social STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANA WEBB
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Friends, Reaching, Inspiring, Educating, Neighbors About Down syndrome) is the local Down syndrome support group in the greater Tri-Cities. We are a non-profit with a volunteer board that strives to provide our Down syndrome families with enriching activities, learning opportunities and great friendships. One of our most popular annual activities is our summer social at the new Kingsport Aquatic Center. This new center has been a favorite for our families as it provides a wonderful venue available to rent for our party. The staff at the center is very helpful and we enjoy working with them each year. Since it is a private setting, we are able to bring in sandwiches and pizza from Chef’s Pizza. Our families can enjoy dinner as well as the water activities and the opportunity to sit and visit with each other and share experiences. This year we had approximately 125 people attend this activity with an age range for our Down syndrome individuals of birth to mid 20’s. Our group is a family friendly organization and we include all family members free of charge, as much as we can, because it is a family atmosphere that we cultivate. For more information about F.R.I.E.N.D.S. please go to www.dsfriends.net and check out all of our great activities and opportunities to volunteer or donate to your local Down syndrome community.
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
DOMTAR CABINS
PEAK in Paradise STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMI CROSS
The warm and relaxing evening began with an authentic lei-ing as some of Kingsport’s young professionals and friends were welcomed to the annual Polynesian party. PEAK members and their guests gathered to lay aside all evidence of their day jobs to simply enjoy the company of fellow professionals. Typical networking was replaced with social mingling on this most tropical of occasions. Attendees were presented with a savory spread of Polynesian cuisine, including Mahi Mahi and Roast Pig as the main course. The evening was filled with island events including door prizes, photo ops on the deck- the river and hills made for an appealing backdrop, and sipping tropical beverages with colorful little umbrellas. Rather than a daily pencil skirt and blouse, ladies were encouraged to wear loose floral dresses for the occasion; men traded in their loafers and ties for (predominantly) khaki shorts and those irresistible Hawaiian button downs. From the music and decorations to the authentic food and summer heat, the fantasy that was created was nothing short of magical and refreshing.
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
KINGSPORT HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER
State Of Tennessee Senate
(District 4) Debate,
Hosted by PEAK STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMI CROSS
The air was stiff on Tuesday, July 12, 2016, as the District 4 Tennessee Senate candidates prepared themselves for a battery of questions- submitted online by PEAK (Professionals Engaging in Advancing Kingsport) members. PEAK’s president, Corey Sheperd, organized the event. Young professionals were afforded the opportunity, collectively, to compile the list of questions that would ultimately test the stamina and the wit of each candidate. John Paul Blevins, Neal Kerney, Jon Lundberg, and Tony Shipley weren’t given time to study prior to the debate as the questions weren’t released until that evening. As each question was asked by mediator Jeremiah Clark- who serves on the Professional Development Committee for PEAKand as each answer was delivered, the crowd remained connected and focused on each response. The evening, overall, was a great success as these men did more than answer a buffet of questions; they showed young professionals how to contain anxiety and maintain composure under high levels of stress- setting an example they’ll remember as they grow in their own fields. 62 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
John Paul Blevins, Jon Lundberg, Neal Kerney, Tony Shipley, and Jeremiah Clark
DOWNTOWN
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Kingsport Ballet Sponsor Luncheon STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA AYERS
American dancer Martha Graham once said, “Dance is the hidden language of the soul,” and for the Kingsport Ballet, those words ring true. And, yet, it is also true that such a language must be taught. That’s why, on July 28th, the people of Kingsport Ballet held a sponsor luncheon to thank those who have donated to the organization in the past year, and to give information to those who are interested in doing so in the future. Many employees from different companies, such as Powell Valley National Bank, Bank of Tennessee and First Bank and Trust, Eastman and New York Life, attended the occasion and were treated to a delicious meal as well as a tour of the facilities. As guests ate, Bertina Dew, KB Executive Director and coordinator of the event, introduced to them all the new things happening at the Kingsport Ballet. Attendees were also given the opportunity to take a peek at the new boutique opening in the front portion of the building. The boutique has plenty of lovely outfits to go around, and will only be getting more! In addition to the revealing of the boutique, Bertina discussed the KB exercise classes offered to the public- classes such as Pilates, Yoga, and even P90X! A special sponsorship option presented to guests was that of the “Adopt-A- Dancer” program. Dew encouraged guests to consider this recourse as a means of having a more personal sponsorship with one particular dancer, and to be allowed to help that dancer attain his/her dreams of learning the beautiful language of their art! To find out more information about the Kingsport Ballet, its exercise classes, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.kingsportballet.org. Kingsport Ballet is funded in part for general operations by the Tennessee Arts Commission and its outreach programs are supported in part by the City of Kingsport and the TAC’s Funds for At Risk Youth.
Beth Barnette of the Town Planner and PVNB’s Amy Wellinger
Eastman’s Chrissy Idlette and Kaitlyn Pruitt of First Bank & Trust
Erma Brown of the Kingsport Ballet
Kingsport Ballet Dancers Amelia Spell, Delaney Shelton, Madeline Manna, Rahleigh Shelton, and Jessica Barrett
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
DOMTAR CABINS
After Hours Integrity First
Financial Group, Lendors Title & Escrow STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECKY RAMSEY
Integrity First Financial Group, a mortgage lender that specializes in home loans, located at 223 E. Center Street in beautiful downtown Kingsport joined together with Lendors Title & Escrow to host the Kingsport Chamber After Hours on Thursday July 28th. Member of the chambers and the community gathered to enjoy great food and networking. Tony Huff and Shannon Counts welcomed the community to help Integrity First Financial celebrate their newly opened office.
Robin Counts and Shannon Counts
Mike Morrison, Joe Misciagagna, and Andrew Begley
Russell Street, Kaylee Street, and Tammy Street
Jan Stapleton, Linda Brandon, Linda Robinson, and Connie Strickland
Dee Burdees, Cori Johnson, and Teresa Redmond
Teresa Redmond, Ginny Jenkins, and Tim Story
Jackie Whitaker and Todd Down
New on the Scene Moe’s Ribbon Cutting The Pinnacle – Bristol, TN
The Pinnacle, Bristol, Tennessee’s entertainment, food, and shopping destination began construction in 2013, and since then, nearly two-dozen other retailers have opened or set with leases for their new location—one of those being Moe’s Southwest Grill. Celebrating its grand opening on July 27th, 2016, members of the Kingsport and Bristol Chamber of Commerce contributed to the ribbon cutting with owners/franchisee Mickey Baker, Ken Vance, and Cory Cable. And to commemorate this event, Moe’s Southwest Grill offered a giveaway of free burritos for one year to the first 100 people who arrived—to say we want more Moe’s would be an understatement. 64 | VIPSEEN | OCTOBER 2016
Franklin Wealth Advisors Kingsport, TN
Franklin Wealth Advisors has been helping individuals, families and businesses plan for their financial security for more than 50 years, and is excited to become part of the community at Kingsport, TN. FWA recently opened their second location here, expanding on their home base in Cincinnati, Ohio where the company was founded in 1954. Opening an office in Kingsport provides the community with a family firm, sensitive to the unique issues and concerns that impact families financial decisions. FWA serves over 1000 clients, providing brokerage services and managing investment assets of more than $150 Million*. FWA is powered by LPL Financial, the nation’s largest independent broker/dealer**. Securities offered through LPL, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Independent Financial Partners (IFP), a Registered Investment Advisor. FWA and IFP are separate entities from LPL. *as of March, 2016, **as reported by Financial Planning Magazine, June 19962016, best of total revenue.
Asbury Place Kingsport, TN
On Tuesday July 13, 2016, Asbury Place Kingsport broke ground on a long-term health care housing concept for seniors that will offer 22 resident rooms at its Baysmont campus on Netherland Lane. The addition brings a $8 million investment to the campus. Construction is expected to be completed in 2017. “Our team has worked hard and looked forward to this day; we’re so excited to provide this new model for East Tennessee seniors,” said Marjorie Shonnard, chief operating officer for Asbury Place. “We anticipate having these long-term care household rooms available for area seniors next year.” “As we celebrate a new development on this campus, I am so proud that Kingsport is home to Asbury Place,” Clark said. “This investment in these new residences is a great example of how Asbury Place cares for our community.”
CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT 276.645.4482 LBOGGS@THEOLDEFARM.COM I
16639 OLD JONESBORO ROAD, BRISTOL, VA 24202
WWW. 0 L DE FARM WEDDINGS. COM
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BRISTOL, TN 37620
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