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Letter from the Publisher
FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker angela@vipseenmag.com CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares angelica_a@vipseenmag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Dianna Pilkenton diannapilk@gmail.com EVENTS COORDINATOR Allison Galloway allison@vipseenmag.com VIPSEEN LIVE! Whitney Carr whitney@vipseenmag.com Morgan King morgan@vipseenmag.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams 423.612.3583 lark@vipseenmag.com Eric Donahue 423.437.2276 eric@vipseenmag.com Kirsten Hall 423.502.0695 kirsten@vipseenmag.com Beth Muncy 423.967.3043 beth@vipseenmag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Nathan Mays COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch BEAUTY EDITOR Sherri Jessee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Eric Donahue Allison Galloway Matt Penix Beth Street Haley White
She Says ... When I asked Miles if Mickey could get the picture that is now the front cover for this issue, he said yes and then followed it with, “but it better not show up anywhere�. Most people would heed that warning. I am not most people. In this lifetime, if you are able to have someone as caring, selfless, and inspiring as Miles Burdine in your life, then you are certainly lucky enough. Over the last seven years I have learned invaluable lessons about leadership, perseverance, kindness, compassion, taking the high road, and commitment. He has taught me that attitude is everything and that there is always time to do something nice for someone every day. Miles is not only a mentor to me; he is also one of my best friends. So, when he was recognized and awarded the Ed Moore Santa Train Service Award for his unwavering commitment and dedication to the success of the Santa Train, the opportunity presented itself for a cover and feature story (inside) and I took it. That being said, I have checked myself into witness protection for a couple of days just to be on the safe side. I love this cover for many reasons. Those of you, who know Miles and Denise Burdine, know that they have spent their lives giving, helping, and inspiring others. These attributes come natural to them. It is just who they are. They are always serving, and never seeking anything in return. Miles and Denise set the example of how we should treat others every day of the year, whether someone is watching or no one is around to see our good deeds. Thank you, both, for being picture perfect role models and leaders. This world could use more of what you have selflessly shared with so many in our region. And a very special thank you to my staff, our advertisers, and our readers! I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
PHOTOGRAPHY Mickey Baker Crystal Dawn Carter Linda Coffey Eric Donahue Allison Galloway Matt Penix Sarah Plemmons Haley White
Angela Baker, angela@vipseenmag.com
DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION Barbara Werner DISTRIBUTION Allison Galloway Charles Kilgore Martin Kilgore Mark Kilgore Leslie Morgan WEBMASTER High Road Digital VIPSEEN, Inc., Tri-Cities 151 E. Main Street, Suite 5 Kingsport, TN 37660 423.398.5321 www.vipseenmag.com
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ON THE COVER
Miles & Denise Burdine Photo by Mickey J. Baker
Calendar of Events / DECEMBER 2018 DECEMBER 4 @4pm Gnome for the Holidays High Road Agency Downtown Kingsport DECEMBER 6 @7pm Bristol Christmas Parade Downtown Bristol Bristol Chamber @7pm Bristol Christmas Parade Downtown Bristol Bristol Chamber DECEMBER 8 @9am 2018 Girls on the Run Fall 5K Thomas Stadium Johnson City, TN @10:30 am - 11:00 am Gallery on the Square Reveal The event will be hosted in the breezeway of the Downtown Johnson City Square (next to the former Massengills) @6pm Jonesborough Christmas Parade Downtown Jonesborough @4pm Christmas at the Cabin The Bogart Bowman Cabin 5012 Unicoi Drive
@7pm Tacky Christmas Sweater Party Donate 5 non-perishable food items to be eligible. Bristol Station Brews & Taproom (276) 608-1220
DECEMBER 12 @6pm YP of Bristol Tacky Christmas Sweater Party Studio Brew Bristol, VA
@8pm Prohibition for the Paws The Venue at the King Centre Johnson City, TN
DECEMBER 13 @6pm 24th Annual KOSBE Awards MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort and Convention Center Kingsport, TN
DECEMBER 9 @8pm Paramount Bristol Presents A Clint Black Christmas Doors Open at 7pm, Show is at 8pm. For tickets and more information go to paramountbristol.org @7:00 pm - 7:30 pm Children’s Christmas Storytime Johnson City Public Library 100 West Millard Street Johnson City, TN 37604 (423) 434-4355 wday@jcpl.net jcpl.net DECEMBER 11 Acoustic Christmas NF, Why Don’t We, Lovely Band, Bryce Vine, Logan Henderson and AJ Mitchell Freedom Hall Johnson City 423-461-4884 johnsoncitytn.com
DECEMBER 15 @8am Breakfast with Santa Chuckey Depot Musuem Jonesborough, TN @12pm Wreaths Across America Mountain Home National Cemetery Johnson City, TN dcart@charter.net @5pm Clara’s Tea and Chocolate Wellmont Performing Arts Theatre – Northeast State Blountville, TN Bertina Dew @6pm Science Hill Percussion Extravaganza by Science Hill Percussion Ensemble Science Hill High School 1509 John Exum Parkway Johnson City, TN 37604
DECEMBER 16 @5:30pm Church Circle Living Nativity Church Circle Kingsport, TN @5:30pm Church Circle Living Nativity Church Circle Kingsport, TN @6pm Shop with a Cop and Firefighter Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center DECEMBER 17 Polar Express Event Kingsport Public Library 400 Broad Street Kingsport, Tennessee 37660 DECEMBER 31 @7pm Kari’s Heart Foundation NYE Ball – Midnight in Paris Carnegie Hotel Johnson City, TN Kari’s Heart Foundation @9:30pm New Years Eve Celebration W/ Rusty Steel & Quarter Bounce Holiday Inn Johnson City 101 West Springbrook Drive Johnson City, TN 37604
December Contents
8 FEATURES 6
COVER STORY MILES BURDINE: 2018 ED MOORE SANTA TRAIN SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT
13 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU 33 SPECIAL FEATURE HOW MARSHALL ARTS KNOCKED OUT DEPRESSION AND CHANGED THE TRAJECTORY OF AN ENTIRE FAMILY 44 SPECIAL FEATURE HEY, SANTA: IS THAT BEARD REAL? 46 LAST MINUTE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 83 SPECIAL FEATURE EDDIE ROSS: DESIGN IT LIKE YOU LOVE IT! A HOUSE DRESSING EXCLUSIVE EVENT
DEPARTMENTS 58 WIT BIT WHAT’S YOUR CHRISTMAS STYLE? 88 VIP BEAUTY HOLIDAY HAIR
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EVENTS 8 76th Annual Santa Train 11 Santa’s Depot 2018 24 4th Annual Walk for Wellness Expo 26 Beyond Awareness - Tri-Cities Fights Back 27 Grand Prize Drawing at Powell Valley National Bank Grand Opening Celebration 28 Tim’s Hug-A-Thon Event for the Miracle Field 29 Model City Tap House Music Bingo 30 Barter Theatre’s Holiday Hustle 5K 31 Young Playwrights Festival at Barter Theatre 38 Honoring Our Heroes 40 Kingsport Veteran’s Day Observance 42 Town of Unicoi Veteran’s Day Luncheon 43 Holly Jolly Market 48 St Paul’s 2018 Christmas Bazaar 49 39th Annual Christmas Connection 50 First Annual Night at the Museum Fundraising Gala 52 Scarecrow Skedaddle & Shindig 53 Howl for the Owl 54 Borderline Billiards Charity ProAm 55 ETSU’s Innovation Lab Lunchtime Meet & Greet 56 Bristol Hotel Grand Opening 57 Fall Festival 59 CIGNA Speedway in Lights 5k 60 Barter Reveal for 2019 Season 61 Spirits of the Season 62 Kingsport Boys & Girls Club Book Celebration 63 City of Kingsport Employees BBQ and Picnic 64 36th Annual Taste of Johnson City 66 13th Annual Red Shoe Masquerade 67 HOPE Community Breakfast 70 Ligero Cigar Lounge Member Appreciation Event Featuring Tatuaje / L’atelier Cigars 71 Tastings Bites and Twinkling Lights 72 Friends In Need Annual Fundraising Event: “A Night of Fun” 75 10th Annual Haunted Half Marathon and Boo to Brew Relay 76 Halloween Bash 78 2nd Annual Dawn of Hope Spooktacular 79 Theatre Bristol 2019 Season Reveal Gala 80 Swinging Fore a Cause 81 YWCA Turkey Trot 5K 82 Wells Fargo Check Presentations 86 The Rotary Club of Kingsport 95th Anniversary Celebration 90 Tusculum University’s First Annual President’s Gala 91 21st Annual Wildlife Weekend 92 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 93 4th Annual Wine and Brew Fest 94 Women in Business 95 4th Annual Dennis Phillips Leadership Kingsport Golf Tournament 96 Starbucks Ribbon Cutting at Food City
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MILES BURDINE A Born Leader with a Servant’s Heart VIPSEEN COVER STORY
STORY BY MATTHEW PENIX
In
virtually every endeavor he’s taken on, he’s risen to the top. When he talks, people listen. When he doesn’t talk, people want him too speak. His words carry weight, but his actions speak the loudest. Whether it is ordering Marines on the front lines of war-torn countries or directing boardroom banter for million dollar meetings, the retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel and current Kingsport Chamber CEO isn’t afraid to take the lead. In fact he relishes it. It’s the public accolades, though, that he often shies away from. It’s not uncommon, for example, for Burdine, who’s had a varied, rich, and nuanced career; to know every answer to every question. But rather than speak himself, he often punts media requests for interviews to others, equally as knowledgeable, who he believes deserve the spotlight more. When it comes to any of the seemingly hundreds of events he’s involved with yearly, he’s more content to let a colleague deliver the keynote speech or give the big toast. But Burdine, always sitting at the lead table, can often be seen sitting there quiet and confident, smiling as a friend or colleague gets the limelight. For Miles, it’s not about the accolades, titles or name recognition: it’s about results. It’s his way and it works. So when Miles Burdine was recently awarded the Ed Moore Santa Train Service Award, an award that recognizes the year-round effort it takes to make the Santa Train happen, it was no surprise he turned the focus to someone else again. “The best part of this is that Ed Moore’s name is on it,” he said. Moore, a longtime, beloved Food City employee, spent 20 years volunteering, leading and promoting the Santa Train. In 2012, Ed Moore was the first recipient of the Santa Train Service Award. The following year, Moore passed away unexpectedly and the award name was changed to the Ed
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Moore Santa Train Service Award to honor his memory. A couple of weeks later, when the Kingsport Chamber mentioned the award again during its annual “State of Your Chamber” Holiday Breakfast, Chamber Board Chair Bob Feathers said Burdine “is going to hate me for saying all this.” But it’s true. Burdine’s dedication to the betterment of not only Kingsport, but also the entire region, is something worth noting. His current initative and past successes read like a who’s who of community involvement. Burdine, the Kingsport Chamber wrote in a press release, “is a major reason for Kingsport’s growth and success.” When asked about working at the Kingsport Chamber, Burdine often says, “I love my job. I look forward to going to work every day. I work with amazing people – volunteers, staff, government – who genuinely want to improve our city, region, and state. I’m especially proud of the chamber employees who dedicate themselves every day to improving our community. I’m a lucky man…I get paid to work with exceptionally talented and determined people, I have a daily opportunity to help others and I get to work on projects that can positively impact the lives of many.” In addition to the many projects and programs he supports at the Chamber he mentions being proud of helping build the Gold Star Families Monument, The Sentinel, and his most recent project: The Miracle Field. “The Miracle Field project, being led by Jud Teague, has captured my heart…and it will yours, too.” Still, for all the work Burdine has poured into the city, he still seems amazed at the recognition. As award speakers began to describe this year’s winner, Burdine had a look of shock and disbelief on his face. When his name was called, the retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel, who should and could be hardened after leading, training, and serving with units from countries such as Kenya, Iraq, France, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey, Israel, Lebanon and England; seemed to melt. He was clearly touched. Tears rolled down his cheeks. After serving three deployments to combat environments – one as a commander of security task force in Beirut, Lebanon in 1983;
another in 1991 as the commanding officer of L Company 3rd
Battalion 24th Marines in Saudi Arabia’s Operation Desert Storm; and finally in 2005 and 2006 as Governance Support Team commander of the 6th Civil Affairs Group during operation Iraqi Freedom in Ramadi, Al Anbar, Iraq – he’s come to appreciate these moments, despite his tendency to shy away from the attention. What Burdine doesn’t seem to mind though is taking the limelight when it means he can motivate others. After his 30-year U.S. Marine Corps career, and now after his decades plus effort in local governance, he’s routinely called on as a motivational speaker and leadership guru for a wide range of groups. “If you ever have to scrub a toilet you should do so with enthusiasm,” he’s often said, one of many witty one-liners that have become an integral part of his downhome charm. Miles can often be heard giving the credit for his success to Denise; his wife of 35 years. “John Eldredge said in his book “Wild at Heart” that all a man really wants is a
battle to fight, a beauty to protect, and an adventure to experience. Thanks to Denise, I was able to do all three. Denise is the real hero. She took care of our family each time I was deployed. I was able to serve and do what I loved because of her support”. Denise is a retired special education teacher from Hawkins County School System. Since her retirement she has pursued her passion for helping animals and now volunteers for PetWorks. This past October she was instrumental in putting together a new fundraiser for the shelter. “Dine to Donate” took place on October 30th and was a huge success with a whopping 26 restaurants in Kingsport participating. The high level of participation is a reflection of the passion and time she poured into this event. The Burdines value community development and have instilled the same in their three daughters. Laura, Laura, and Laura (Nikki, Laura, and Alyce) were each named after their mother Laura (Denise). All three are graduates of The University of Tennessee. VIPSEEN is honored to be featuring Miles and Denise on the cover this month for all the things mentioned above and so much more. When some of his staff were let in on the secret cover (yes, secret…he would have never willingly allowed this much attention to be given to him) they were excited and proud of their leader, sice the way he leads his staff is admired. He often reminds them...never below you, never above you, always beside you! After all, he often says, “People don’t follow titles, they follow courage.”
Burdine is active and serves or has served in many leadership capacities with many community and state organizations, including, but not limited to: • Tennessee Board of Regents • Board of Judicial Conduct • Governor’s First to the Top Advisory Council • Governor’s Commission on Judicial Nominations • State Collaborative on Reforming Education • Governor’s Energy Policy Task Force • Campaign Chairman and President of the United Way of Greater Kingsport • President of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce Executives • Tennessee Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee and Board of Directors • BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Board of Directors • Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives • Tennesseans for Quality Early Education • Tennessee Economic Development Partnership Board • Founder of Someone Who Cares (a private charity) • Founding board member of the Tri-Cities ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Lou Gehrig’s Disease) support team • Tri-Cities March of Dimes Board of Directors • Committee on Postsecondary Education • Kingsport Veterans Memorial Committee • Kingsport Higher Education Commission • Leadership Tennessee Class V • Advanced Manufacturing Partnership • Northeast State Community College Foundation Board of Directors www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT
76 Annual Santa Train th
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICKEY J. BAKER
Country duo Maddie & Tae were the special guests on the 76th running of the CSX Santa Train on Saturday, November 17th.
First breaking out in 2013 with their Platinum-selling, No. 1 hit, “Girl In A Country Song,” the award-winning duo is back with new music. The pair has also been tapped to join Carrie Underwood’s 2019 Cry Pretty Tour 360. Each year since 1942, CSX’s Santa Train has embarked on a journey from Shelby, Ky., to Kingsport, Tenn. to spread holiday cheer by passing out gifts to families in cities along the route. The Santa Train makes 14 stops in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, delivering toys, food and winter clothing to hundreds of residents along the way. Maddie & Tae will accompany Santa Claus and event sponsors CSX, Food City, Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Appalachian Power and Soles 4 Souls on the 110-mile trek.
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT CENTENNIAL PARK
Santa’s Depot PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Santa arrived in Kingsport, Tennessee to cheers from a large crowd! After leaving Pikeville, Kentucky during the early hours of the morning, the Santa Train made its last stop at the Depot. Activities were held in Kingsport’s Centennial Park all afternoon as the crowds waited for the arrival of Santa with his special musical guests, Maddie and Tae.
The admission was free, and there were many entertaining activities for children and adults. Food trucks ensured that nobody was hungry. Cookies and Reindeer treats were handed out, and there was an opportunity to pet Santa’s reindeer as they rested up for their big trip on December 24th. As children played on inflatables, rode the miniature train, and made crafts, entertainment was presented on the stage all afternoon. Morgan King of VIPSEEN Live! served as the emcee and kept the excitement high for Santa’s arrival on the train. When Santa arrived, he greeted the crowd and spent time talking with the children. A sack of letters was handed to Santa to take home to the North Pole. Country music duo Maddie and Tae performed for the crowd and expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to spread Christmas cheer by riding the 76th annual Santa Train. The event was presented by Appalachian Power, CSX, Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, and Visit Kingsport. DASHER?
LUCY FLEMING AND RODNEY DYE
AIDAN AND NANCY
NIKO AND BELLA
ELIZA CHIDDSTER, SULLIVAN, SUMMER WITH MORGAN AND LINDA KING
AMY MARGARET MCCOLL AND RHONDA SMITH
HEATHER AND LAFE COOK
MADDIE AND TAE PERFORM FOR THE CROWD!
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New Year New You 14
ABINGDON OLIVE OIL: GIVE THE TASTE OF GOOD HEALTH
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AN ADVENTURE WITHIN REACH.
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PRESTIGE AESTHETICS: CRYOSKIN. LESS FILTER. MORE YOU.
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TRI-CITIES SKIN AND CANCER: IS MICRONEEDLING FOR YOU?
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WESTFALL ORTHODONTICS: WHY IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IMPORTANT? VIPDEC18_1-96.indd 13
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Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar Balsamic vinegar has the ability to: Destroy Free Radicals and Fight Cancer
Antioxidants from balsamic vinegar destroy free radicals and protect healthy cells, limiting exposure to cancer, premature aging and hardening of arterial walls. This provides a natural deterrent to infectious diseases and inflammations (yes, it’s also a pain reliever). Balsamic vinegar also contains polyphenols, which act as anti-cancer agents.
Reduce the Risk of Heart Attack
Balsamic vinegar is low in saturated fat and is believed to reduce cholesterol. Moreover, since it is low in sodium, it enhances heart health and reduces high blood pressure.
Control Diabetes
The American Diabetes Association has reported vinegar improves insulin sensitivity carbohydrate-heavy meals in subjects with insulin resistance or Type 2 Diabetes. Research also has revealed five teaspoons of balsamic vinegar a day enhances insulin sensitivity.
Assist Digestion
Polyphenols in balsamic vinegar stimulate the activity of pepsin enzyme in the body. Pepsin is a digestive enzyme, which helps break proteins into smaller units (amino acids) through more efficient absorption.
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Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil With its makeup of rich polyphenols, antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) carries significant medicinal value as part of a plant-based or Mediterranean-style diet.
According to researchers consumption of EVOO decreases the risk of: Heart Disease Type 2 Diabetes Lipid Disorders Cancer (in general, breast, color, gastrointestinal, skin, prostate) Osteoporosis Alzheimer’s Disease (and other cognitive function issues)
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Is Microneedling for You? M
icroneedling is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment that targets fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. True to its name, microneedling is a procedure in which a trained dermatologist or aesthetician creates tiny holes in the skin using microfine needles. This process triggers the body’s natural healing process, thus stimulating collagen and elastin production. Additionally, once these holes are made, products such as Vitamin C and Hyaluronic acid are applied to the skin and are able to penetrate deeper, thus working more effectively. However, like any treatment, there are several things to consider and ensure that microneedling is in fact the best choice for you. 1. Before scheduling any new treatment, you should always consult with a dermatologist or licensed aesthetician to make sure that you are a good candidate. Bring questions along with you to your consultation and let an aesthetician help you determine what is going to be the most effective treatment for you and one that will give you the desired results you are hoping to achieve. 2. Microneedling has minimal pain. However, the pain does not linger. Aestheticians at Tri-Cities Skin and Cancer apply a numbing cream before the procedure to minimize the discomfort patients may experience. 3. Fine lines will be softened and improved. Our patients tell us that they see a marked improvement. 4. Microneedling should not be considered for those patients who have active acne as this can spread the bacteria. 5. Since microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure, there is very little down time. However, you may experience redness for up to a week and a sensation that mimics moderate sunburn can last up to several hours following your treatment. It is important to stay out of the sun while there is any pink or redness due to a chance of hyperpigmentation. 6. Microneedling will take a series of at least 3 treatments, with optimal results 8-12 weeks after your first treatment. During the month of December, when you buy any package, you receive another package ½ off. Take this time now to treat yourself and call (423) 929-7546 to schedule your appointment today.
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT BALLAD HEALTH CAMPUS
DIANE IRWIN AND BRIAN BUTLER
KANDY CHILDRESS AND BILLY PEARSON
4th Annual Walk for Wellness Expo
SUSAN BOWERS AND FREDDY
BOB MILLER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA COFFEY | STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
On Saturday, October 13th, Healthy Kingsport held the 4th Annual Walk for Wellness Expo presented by Ballad Health. The Walk for Wellness Expo is the region’s largest health and wellness expo with over 90 vendors all with great giveaways, including t-shirts, water bottles, pedometers, stress balls, and more. Additionally, folks could take advantage of free health screenings and services such as a mobile dental clinic—Appalachian Miles for Smiles, a mobile vision unit, blood pressure checks, diabetes analyses, stress checks, and free flu shots for all ages!
A new addition to this year ’s event gave attendees a chance to purchase fresh, healthy produce from local farmers. Walking through Farmer ’s Market Alley, attendees enjoyed the fall scenery, and saw what yummy produce is in season. The event also featured an entire area dedicated to kid’s health and wellness. Two community walks for all ages and physical activity levels took place on the Greenbelt, which offers a smooth paved surface making it a great place for strollers, wheelchairs, and pets.
SENATOR JON LUNDBERG
SUSAN LAGUARDIA AND JOY SHOUN
ELIZABETH HALL (FOOD CITY DIETITIAN)
ROCHELLE AND BRIAN TRENT
Individuals and teams who have contributed to the 2 Million Mile City challenge were recognized via the Wall of Fame. This multi-panel display featured the name of each individual who tracked, logged, and aggregated their physical activity into Walker Tracker—a fitness portal provided free to the region by Ballad Health. Healthy Kingsport also celebrated the community ’s achievement of putting Kingsport on the map as the first 2 Million Mile City in America. Individuals and teams from Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia got moving to achieve their personal fitness goals and have it count toward our collective goal, which ultimately resulted in an astonishing 6.7 million miles of physical activity from November 2017 – October 2018—well surpassing our stretch goal of two million miles. Healthy Kingsport is currently working with Ballad Health and its regional partners to set the challenge goal for 2019. In the meantime, keep the momentum going by logging our collective miles in either Walker Tracker, or an organizational portal. Walker Tracker can be accessed by visiting healthykingsport.org. Healthy Kingsport is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a community that actively embraces healthy living by promoting wellness, enhancing infrastructure, and influencing policy. For more information, please visit www.healthykingsport.org. JOSH DAVIS ACCEPTS FOR EASTMAN
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
REBECCA MITCHELL AND LINDA CULBERTSON
ANNA ZOOK
STACIE DAVIS
Beyond Awareness:
Tri-Cities Fights Back PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The pink carpet was rolled out for those arriving at the Beyond Awareness: Tri-Cities Fights Back event on Tuesday, October 16th. Folks came out to celebrate survivors, but this event also had a unique take on the usually “regular ” ceremony. “October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and everyone is aware that breast cancer happens. We want to take it one step further, beyond awareness, we want people to take action. Tonight is all about action,” said Amy Dunaway, executive director of Susan G. Komen East TN.
BARBARA SCHMIDT AND DEBBIE BELL
After enjoying refreshments, attendees could participate in interactive stations to learn what Komen does in the community and how to be more involved with the organization in the fight against breast cancer. They could also share their “why” on a special board – why they’re participating in the fight against breast cancer, and they could write encouragement cards for loved ones that have been affected by the disease. The mission of Komen East TN is to fund screening and diagnostic services, patient financial assistance, and breast health education covering 2 regions: 8 counties in the Tri-Cities region and 16 in the Knoxville region. For more information, visit www.KomenEastTN.org
JESSICA WADDELL
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BEVERLY BOLING
DEBBIE CAMPBELL AND GINA TURNER
BARBARA MOODY AND VEDA MITCHELL
JANICE SPURGEON AND KAY LOVE
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT POWELL VALLEY NATIONAL BANK
Powell Valley
National Bank’s Grand Opening
Celebration PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
LETON HARDING, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF POWELL VALLEY NATIONAL BANK, TRACY ALLEN, BRENT MULLINS, TED FIELD, MARKET EXECUTIVE; MARY SMITH, KEITH CUNNINGHAM, ROY RICHMOND, MAKAYLA BLEVINS, AND MARGARET HENSLEY.
Visitors to Powell Valley National Bank’s new Kingsport office registered to win a grand prize associated with their Grand Opening celebration. The winner of the drawing won a $1,000 donation to be made to the charitable organization of their choice. Keith Cunningham, owner of The Bagel Exchange, was drawn as the grand prize winner. PVNB presented a check to Mary Smith of Small Miracles Therapeutic Equestrian Center for $1,000.
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT BARBARITOS
TIM, VANESSA BENNETT (KINGSPORT LEADERSHIP), AND MITCH WRIGHT (BARBARITOS)
TIM HARRIS POSES IN HIS CATCHPHRASE “OH YEAH” SHIRT
Tim’s Hug-a-thon
NICOLE AUSTIN, BRIANNA TAYLOR, EMILY THOMPSON, AND AMY MCCALL
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Tim Harris gained Internet fame after a video of him hit viral status. Tim wears many hats: entrepreneur, disability rights advocate, motivational speaker, and, his favorite, hugger-in-chief. On October 30, 2018 he came to Kingsport to do what he does best for a wonderful project. Harris is best known as the owner of Tim’s Place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which is where he spread his message of “I’m more like you than different”. He also had an item not on every menu: free hugs. Tim was born with Down Syndrome, but that hasn’t stopped him from living his dreams, aside from owning his own restaurant, he also found time to earn a gold medal in the special Olympics.
NICOLE BRIGGS, TIM, KELLY WEAVER, AND KIM
Harris spoke at a Kingsport Leadership breakfast early that morning, and every person that attended said he was more inspiring than he will ever realize, and that they all needed tissues by the end. Tim didn’t stop at speaking, though. He set up at Barbaritos near the Chamber offices and offered hugs for a $5 donation for the Miracle Field project in Kingsport. He also sold shirts with his “Oh Yeah” catchphrase and donated proceeds from that to the project as well. With his infectious enthusiasm, he delighted those that came to see him, and showed a sincere gratitude to those media that came to cover him. He also teased everyone with his biting and quick wit. The miracle field will be for special needs athletes to play baseball at Brickyard Park. The field will be rubberized and will be the first of its kind in the area. The article could not be complete if we hadn’t tested the main assertion, that Tim’s hugs are the best. VIP can confirm that, Tim does indeed give out the best hugs and, at just $5, he may have undersold his hugging ability. If you would like more information on the Miracle Field project and how you can be a part of this amazing opportunity please visit the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce at www.kingsportchamber.org
TIM WITH LARA POTTER
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TIM IS GIVING CAMERA LESSONS TO WJHL’S DOUG COUNTS
december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
TIM’S FIRST HUG OF THE EVENT WITH TRAYANNA HUGHES
KRISTEN BOSTIC, TIM, AND JILL MAYHEW
MILTON CARTER AND BRADLEY HOOVER
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MODEL CITY TAP HOUSE
Model City Tap Room JACOB AND ANNA HITE
APRIL GUINN, MARIANN DUFF, JACKIE BROOM, AND SANDRA BYINGTON
JESSICA, JUSTIN, AND KELLY
GINGER MOKRY (TOWN PARKS), SHELTON CLARK (OWNER MODEL CITY TAP HOUSE), AND PAULA GREEN (TOWN PARK LOFTS)
Music Bingo PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month you can find Model City Tap House filled with patrons that are using their music knowledge to win big in Bingo. On very special occasions, like the bingo on October 25, 2018, those playing also get to learn about some great housing options that are on the way in Kingsport. Regulars, Bingo fans, and new tap room guests get a double dose of fun with Phantom Entertainment emcees Jacob and Anna Hite. They offer mixed rounds of bingo with themed cards like the 80’s or love songs. The crowd then gets to listen to a mashup of great music until one card has bingo. Helping host the events festivities is Town Park Lofts. They are providing a blend of sophisticated urban living with a natural feel and access to outdoor adventures. The Sullivan Street project is now giving hard hat tours and leasing one, two, and three bedroom units. The units are close to all the downtown action with access to beautiful natural scenery and access to great outdoor adventures. The units also feature a resort-style pool and outdoor kitchen area for residents.
PAULA, ERIC, TRISH, AND WES
For those interested in the lofts contact info@townparklofts.com. If you want to know more about what the Model City Tap Room offers find them at modelcitytaphouse.com.
SEEN IN
ABINGDON VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL
RICHARD ROSE, PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF BARTER THEATRE
LISA BARKER AND DEBORAH MCCROSKEY
TYLER CRAMER, RYAN HENDERSON, AND SARA DOUGLAS
Barter Theatre’s Holiday Hustle 5k PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Barter Theatre hosted their inaugural “Holiday Hustle” on Sunday, November 18th at the Creeper Trail in Abingdon, Virginia. The race was themed around Barter Theatre’s holiday production of ELF: The Musical. The event featured a 5k and a 1-mile walk/run. Participants were encouraged to dress up for the costume contest. It was also a pet-friendly event, with a fabulous prize for “Captain,” the winner of the pet contest. With 198 runners registered, it was a good turnout for the event. Many spectators were enjoying the holiday atmosphere and beautiful weather.
TONYA TRIPLETT, ABINGDON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
JOHN WRIGHT
Unique trophies and medals were awarded for the top finishers in each age category, with additional prizes for the best costumes for adults and children. The trophies were contributed by Creative Touch CNC and Highlands Union Bank provided the medals. Food City provided the refreshments, and Hampton Inn Abingdon handed out water. A raffle was held with several prizes and gift certificates from area merchants. The proceeds from the event will support Barter Theatre’s programs and activities in furtherance of its mission of “Enriching Lives Through Extraordinary Theatre.” Barter Theatre, located in Abingdon, is the nation’s longest-running professional theatre. To learn more about Barter, visit their website at www.bartertheatre.com. DRESSED TO HUSTLE!
STEPHANIE PLACE BUCHANAN, 1ST PLACE FEMALE, OVERALL
GEORGE TOLTON, OVERALL 1ST PLACE MALE
LAUREL AND MEGAN DORMAN
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CAPTAIN, 1ST PLACE PET COSTUME
SHELLY OWENS AND ASHLEY JENKINS
SKYLAR AND ASHLEY MATHIESON
TYLER CRAMER, RYAN HENDERSON, AND SARA DOUGLAS
MANDY AND CHUCK SUMMERS
JOHN BATES, 1ST PLACE MALE, AGE 70-79
SEEN IN
ABINGDON BARTER THEATRE
Barter Theatre’s Young
Playwrights Festival PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
2018’s first-place winner is Pauses, written by Aisling Ringrose from Abingdon High School, whose teachers are Christie Lawson and Crystal Hurd. The second-place winner is I Hear Ya, written by Rachel Womack from Chilhowie High School, whose teacher is Rebecca Peery. Third place is ‘Till Death Do Us Part, written by Evan Mays from Volunteer High School, whose teacher is Justin Barton.
TOP ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: ABBY JACK, JOHN LUKE SAGE, AND ALEXIA WHEELER FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: SHAWN WOHLFORD, EVAN MAYS, RACHEL WOMACK, AISLING RINGROSE
Barter Theatre’s 17th Annual Young Playwrights Festival took place on November 5, 2018 with two performances in the morning at Gilliam Stage for over 800 students, and a public evening performance at Barter Stage II. The 2018 festival included 395 plays written by 633 playwrights from 14 high schools in Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. Since its inception in 2002, Barter’s Young Playwrights Festival has included over 3,300 plays and over 5,000 playwrights.
The Honorable Mention plays, in no particular order, are: The Slaying of Non-Imaginary Monsters by Alexa Wheeler, Chilhowie High School, Teacher: Rebecca Peery; Irreversible by Abby Jack, Elizabethton High School, Teacher: Sara Hardin; Black And White by Josie Stewart, Abby Leonard, and Marissa Merro, Carroll County High School, Teacher: Chelsea Wood; Detective Mitch Dash: And the Pied Swiper by John Luke Sage, Marion Senior High School, Teacher: Noel Todd Necessary; and You’ll See by Shawn Wohlford, John S. Battle High School, Teacher: Dr. Melissa Buckles. The Young Playwrights Festival is an annual event that cultivates and celebrates the talent of high school students. The purpose of this Festival is to encourage the development of students’ writing skills and creativity, with the added benefit of discovering talented playwrights in our region.
VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
HOW MARTIAL ARTS
KNOCKED OUT DEPRESSION and Changed the Trajectory of an Entire Family...
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MATTHEW PENIX
T
he teases and taunts came regularly. And although at first they were just words, they were laced with enough venom, they stung. They made Chandler Taylor feel helpless, inadequate, selfconscious, and even depressed. But even as a child Chandler wasn’t one to complain. He took the bullying on, accepting the daggers of emotional pain that came along with it. He buried it deep, worried more about shielding his parents from their own concerns than his own self-worth. To the rest of the world he smiled, behaved, and acted like a regular kid. Inside, however, a tornado ripped through his gut. It was almost too much to bear. At just 8-years-old, Chandler, the son of a pastor, was suicidal. Then, if it was even possible, things got worse. As if the tonguelashings weren’t enough, one day during Vacation Bible School at his father’s church, the kids ended up on the playground away from the adults’ watchful eyes. Things got physical. Chandler was bombarded. When the dust settled, the little boy with a big heart was left with a broken collarbone; it was Chandler’s 9th birthday. Already self-conscious about his dyslexia and his awkward stature, Chandler’s depression at that moment kicked into high gear. Blackness wrapped around him like a straight jacket. Yet there he was, with a brave smile on his own birthday party as lightening bolts of pain
sliced down his arm. He had explained away the sting to his mother as nothing more than children’s rough housing gone wrong. And he told himself they were friends that played a stupid prank. His mother, Twana Taylor never knew the difference as she smiled and passed out her son’s birthday cake to the grubby outstretched hands of the bullies who broke her son’s bones. “I had nothing left. Nothing,” said Chandler, now 19, “I was done. I was a kid and wanted to die.” THE KICKSTARTER KICK Twana Taylor was desperate for help. As her first born, she knew her son Chandler better than anyone. Something, however, was amiss, and she didn’t know what was wrong or what to do. She prayed with her husband Scott. The pair needed some guidance, structure, something, anything. They tried to enroll the boy in soccer, which didn’t take. Then they tried basketball. That was a non-starter too. Then one day while watching an episode of “Super Nanny” she saw a troubled youth enroll in a boxing class. A light bulb went off. She made some calls; nobody offered boxing programs. But her best friend, Brandy, told her of a martial arts academy nearby. The next day, Chandler was enrolled in a Taekwondo class.
www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” The Lord was at work and used the simple act of a mother’s love that would years later ultimately change the trajectory of the entire family forever, placing a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom with an associates degree in business; in charge of managing a 170-client roster with a pair of teenage boys as the face of a the family’s small martial arts academy. With community impact stretching way beyond the studio doors. Taylor’s Martial Arts Academy is now one of 21 finalists nominated this month for the esteemed Kingsport Office of Small Business Development and Entrepreneurships Award, better known as the KOSBE awards. At the time though, Twana’s goal was basic. She simply wanted to save her son’s life. “(Chandler) was praying God would just take him,” Twana said. ”He thought he was too stupid to live. He thought he was taking up my time, my other children’s time. But none of this was true. None of it. I needed God to help him see his worth. So I began teaching him the truth of Jeremiah 29:11.” MASTER OLSON’S MASTER CLASS When Chandler first entered Master Glenn Olson’s Johnson Citybased martial arts class, he was slightly intimidated. With his little brother Landon by his side, he gathered the courage. This one, after all, only ever saw a giant in his big brother. As crazy as it seems, Landon has only ever wanted to impress Chandler. Chandler did not want to disappoint him, so that pushed Chandler to try and succeed. Chandler recognized a structure within it all, one paved by discipline, control, and a sense of honor among accomplishment. He was wearing camouflage pants and a green shirt when he met the man God would use to save his life and give him the promised future. With Master Olson, Chandler finally felt safe. He started off with the Taekwondo basics, learning the beauty of its rhythm, pace, and form. It was an art, like a dancer paints the stage with masterstrokes of body movements. He learned not only how to protect himself, but also how to restrain himself. 34
december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
Most importantly, he learned how to hone his pain, and channel his emotions into something bigger than himself. The Light had pierced his darkness. The fog dissipated. His confidence grew. Somehow, the little boy who once wanted to die was becoming a stranger. Chandler slowly grew out of his awkward stage. Week by week he grew tougher. Class by class he grew stronger. The real Chandler re-emerged. He was a born leader, waiting for this moment. And soon enough he had the hardware to prove it too. Today, wrapped around his waist is a 4th degree black belt nobody can take away, especially anyone who dares to physically try it. “I was never an athlete. I was clumsy. I was awkward. But I practiced and worked harder than most and finally began to succeed.” Chandler said. “Failure is only failure if you let it be failure. If you want something, you can become something.” “It was an encompassing circle of support–God’s love and faithfulness, Master Olson’s compassion and mentoring, Dad’s working around the clock to allow Mom to stay at home and teach me, my brother Landon’s undying faith in me–that has made me who I am today. I am not a self-made man. I am a product of a lot of love and support. And I try every day to be that for my students too.” Chandler, alongside brother Landon, 17, a Sr. 3rd degree black belt, often used both love and support to instill a sense of pride in their students, but also on the routine visits to area schools to lecture on bullying’s impact. At first, the pair would call schools, requesting the opportunity to speak to studnets. Now, schools call them. They’ve performed at somewhere between 30 and 50 different engagements, starting with Master Olson at ages 10 and 8.
VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
THE BULLY BUSINESS When Chandler was 10 1/2, Master Glenn Olson belted him with his 1st degree Jr. black belt. The acheivement was so much more than physical: it was a personal breakthrough. He told his beloved instructor, “Someday I’m going to be like you. I am going to have my own school so I can help other kids who struggle just like me know that there is hope, they can succeed, and know they are going to be okay.” Masters Glenn and Amanda Olson, 8th degree black belts, have been in business in this area for well over 20 years. They had two successful locations in Johnson City and Kingsport, but in mid-2016 it became clear that keeping both schools would be impossible. It wasn’t an easy decision. Olson and his wife had become master instructors to hundreds of martial artists throughout the region. With a steady stream of students already signed up for months of classes, he couldn’t just abandon one of his locations either. Glenn needed a replacement. But who? Chandler was not among the first candidates to spring to mind. He was only 16, but he had already been helping teach many of Olson’s students for years. “He just gets people and I can’t teach that. He also loves martial arts and is good at it,” Olson confesses. The once shy, self-conscious, depressed kid was the epitome of what martial arts represents. He barely even had his driver’s license, yet had more drive and dedication than men twice his age. “But more importantly,” Olson said over a recent phone interview, “this kid’s got skills, both in form and craft and as a natural born teacher.” After going back and forth in his mind, Olson says God brought Chandler to mind, and decided to make the call anyway. Olson gave his pitch: Manage his Kingsport academy for six months, as a family, and try it. If it works for you as a family unit, then Olson would sell them the studio – and its steady stream of students – to the Taylor family for good. If not, the Taylor family had lost nothing but experience and could return to his Johnson City staff.
For Chandler this was his dream coming to life. He already knew martial arts was his future. Now, he had to convince his family it was their future too. “He just never gave up. We were trying to plot his future, looking at colleges but every time we asked, he kept saying the same thing: ‘I want my own academy and I want to help other kids,’” his mom Twana said. After much prayer, it was agreed. In the next four months, the academy did 110% of the previous six months. God’s plan finally became crystal clear and on Jan. 2, 2017, Taylor’s Martial Arts Academy was born. FAMILY BOND Walk inside the doors of Taylor’s Martial Arts Academy in Kingsport and you’ll notice it’s not the run of the mill studio. Hung on the wall are banners of the Taekwondo tenets: Courtesy. Integrity. Preserverance. Self Control. Respect. Victory. While a family of six is hard enough to manage on its own, drop on top of it a new business which no members had any true experience running, and a team of teenagers as its face, you’d think trials and tribulations would rule the day. But inside these doors, everyone is equal. Respect, integrity, and love rule the day. Egos are tossed aside. Brothers and sisters who might argue at home, call each other “sir” and “ma’am” inside the studio. It’s one team, one business, one family. Decisions are made over family dinners, not boardroom lunches. The identity is hard to separate from the family members behind the namesake. It’s the only way the Taylors know and it has paid off. Starting with 77 Taekwondo students when the family first took over two years ago, today there are about 170 students, a virtually unheard of feat in the cut throat mixed martial arts arena, and while it’s impressive to others, for Chandler, Landon, and their family, it’s only the beginning. When Chandler earned his 4th degree black belt, it was important to him to have his favorite verse embroidered on the back of his belt. As he stands to lead classes, all of his students see those words. That’s by design. “I want all of my students to see my belt and to know God loves them and longs to bring about His good plans for his lives too.” www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
KOSBE AWARDS It’s this success that recently led the family to become one of 21 finalists for this month’s esteemed Kingsport Office of Small Business Development and Entrepreneurship awards, better known as the KOSBE awards to be announced during a special recognition ceremony 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, December 13th at the MeadowView Marriot in Kingsport. The recognition evaluates community impact, innovation and leadership within the area’s small business community. ABOVE: TAYLOR CHILDREN WITH MASTER OLSON LEFT: LANDON, 17; MAKENNA, 14; CHANDLER, 19; HAYDEN, 11
RIGHT: TAYLOR FAMILY
This relatively small 2,500-square-foot studio is on the verge of a possible 4,300-square-foot expansion, which gives the ability to run two classrooms simultaneously, alongside implementation of a new weapons program, an adult cardio kickboxing program, and a host of other new disciplines designed not just as a business offering, but rather a life-saving life style, and while the recognition is nice for the Taylors, public recognition is far from what guides this family affair. The family agrees that what really motivated them is: “We teach martial arts–demanding legitimate skill before ranks are ever awarded–but at the end of the day, we care more about who your child becomes than we do about what they can do. We believe in support, respect, and leadership. That’s what makes a real black belt.”
MOVE MORE. BE WELL. If your holiday traditions all seem to revolve around eating, liven things up with some opportunities to be physically active with family and friends. • Go for a walk or run. Instead of heading for the couch after the big meal, bundle up and head outdoors for some fresh air. Walking is an activity the whole family can do together, even the dog! • Play to win. Start a new tradition of an annual family game of touch football, basketball, mini-golf or whatever your family’s favorite sport is. • Make it move. Add movements and gestures to your favorite card or board games. • Play in the snow. Go sledding, ice skating, skiing or snowshoeing. Build a snowman or snow fort. Team up for an epic snowball fight. • Break up the binge-watching. In between bowl games or your favorite holiday movies, take a walk or do something active. If the holidays sometimes leave you feeling stressed and overwhelmed, take care of yourself to stay well. • Keep up healthy habits. Make a commitment to yourself before the holiday season begins. If you don’t completely give up your healthy habits, you won’t feel like you have to start all over once the holidays are in the rear-view. • Fit in fitness. Try not to skip workouts, but when a full social calendar gets in the way, sprinkle some healthy activity like walking into your daily routine. • Give yourself the gift of peace. When the invitations pile up, don’t be afraid to say no to some of them. If you need some down time to recharge for the next party, take a break. Do something that relaxes you, like yoga, meditation, reading, a warm bath or spending time in nature. • Get your ZZZs. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night to stay in the healthy zone. Don’t let your wake-up time and bedtime get too far off your regular schedule. Nap when needed and ditch the digital devices at night.
For more tips, visit heart.org/healthyforgood.
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT ST. DOMINIC’S CATHOLIC CHURCH
LISA BEILHARZ AND ANDY TRUE
ALLEN AND SUSAN JACKSON
MORGAN KING, EMCEE
Honoring Our Heroes PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
A large crowd gathered at St. Dominic’s Church on Friday, November 9th to honor our heroes. Sponsored by Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport and Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council (TC-MAC), the evening was dedicated to acknowledging and thanking our many community heroes. Miles Burdine, President, and CEO of the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce was the keynote speaker for the event. Colonel (Retired) Burdine served in the United States Marine Corps and shared lessons he had learned from people who have influenced his life. Burdine acknowledged the presence of young people at the event and stressed that we all need to pay attention to the future heroes and set an example for them to follow. He believes that people don’t follow titles, they follow courage.
SULLIVAN SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL AIR FORCE JUNIOR ROTC COLOR GUARD
Honorees were presented to the crowd, and their hopes for the future shared, along with what has inspired them. Veteran Honorees included James W. (Bill) Jones, Brenda R. Kilgore, John H. Pennington, Ross Strickler, and the 2018 Veteran of the Year, Allen Jackson. Police Honorees included Sergeant Dustin Jackson, Officer Scott Reid, Detective Mike Slater, and Officer Lucas Parker. The Firefighter Honoree was Captain Chris Corey. Steven Monroe was honored as the EMS Honoree. Dr. Keith Kramer was the Medical Honoree, and Andy True was honored as the Education Honoree. Young people honored for their leadership skills included A.J., Conner, Veronica, Abigail, and the 2018 Youth of the Year, Dylan. Many stories were shared to inspire and encourage our community to learn from the past and hope for the future. ALLEN JACKSON AND ERIE RUMSBY
LARRY CRAWFORD, BEVERLY BOLING, DANA IVES, JANE CRAWFORD, AND LYNN JOHNSON
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TINA PASQUALE AND TONY MELSON
SULLIVAN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ANGIE STANLEY AND PAT SHULL
DYLAN, 2018 YOUTH OF THE YEAR
SUZIE AND SAM JONES
YOUTH HONOREES WITH LISA BEILHARZ
BILL KILGORE
MILES AND DENISE BURDINE
2018 HONOREES
BEN AND MANDY CHRISTIAN
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT VETERAN’S MEMORIAL
VIGILANT
VAL LYLE, SCULPTOR
Kingsport Veterans
ERNIE RUMSBY
Day Observance PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Veterans Day Ceremony in Kingsport was a special occasion this year. A commemoration was observed of the one-hundredth anniversary of the end of World War I. Veterans Day honors all of those who have served our country for their service and protection. After a welcome from Ernie Rumsby, Morris Baker offered an invocation, and Angie Duncan Marshall sang the National Anthem. As rain dripped off of umbrellas, everyone in the crowd stood at attention and remembered those who fought to defend our freedom. Mayor John Clark recognized the veterans and their bravery in serving. Mayor Clark introduced Val Lyle, an Appalachian Artist, who sculpted the new addition to the Veterans Memorial
BRIG. GEN. KURTIS J. WINSTEAD AND MILES BURDINE
MORRIS BAKER
A new Sentinel was dedicated to stand watch over the Kingsport Veterans Memorial. The Sentinel, a six-foot, four-inch statue, represents all branches of the United States Military. Artist, Val Lyle, used Major Kyle May, a local activeduty member of the U.S. military as the model. Work on the sentinel took approximately eighteen months. The statue weighs around seven hundred pounds and includes weapons similar to those used in Iraq and Afghanistan. Appreciation was expressed to Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Herbert V. Ladley and his family who gave the initial donation for the Sentinel project.
MAYOR JOHN CLARK
REP. JOHN CRAWFORD
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MORRIS BAKER AND BILL KILGORE
JOINT ROTC COLOR GUARD
FRED HIMELWRIGHT
LYNN TULLY AND JEFF FLEMING
STAFF OF THE BLAKE
KITTY FRAZIER AND BONNIE MACDONALD
AUNDREA WILCOX
RAINY WEATHER DIDN’T KEEP PEOPLE AWAY FROM THE CEREMONY!
“MISSING MAN” CEREMONY
MAJOR KYLE MAY AND ARTIST, VAL LYLE
SEEN IN
ERWIN TOWN OF UNICOI TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER
AUDREY AND THOMAS TURNER
PAM AND WILL WEILER
DONNA AND LARRY REA
Town of Unicoi
Veteran’s Day Luncheon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The Town of Unicoi History Group hosted the annual Veteran’s Day Luncheon on Saturday, November 10th. All active and retired military personnel were invited to eat lunch for free at the Town of Unicoi Tourist Information Center. Family members of veterans were able to purchase a meal for just $5. Usually, the group serves over 100 people.
HAZEL BERRY
SUE AND WAYNE GARLAND
The Town of Unicoi History Group prides itself in keeping the rich history of the area available to those who are interested in learning about the culture. For more information, please email communicationsandprograms@unicoitn.net.
GRACE ANN CLARK, GINA CLARK, BETTY HAWKINS, JEAN MULL, PAT LYNCH, TAMMY FLETCHER, AND LEISA WILLIS
MAYOR JOHNNY LYNCH
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PAT LYNCH
GAYE NORMAN
JOSHUA TILSON
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MODEL CITY EVENT CENTER
TAILIN POSTEMA
STEPHANIE DAVIS AND KATIE KEEN
Holly Jolly Market PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Seasons of Hope, Inc. kicked off their Secret Santa Project with a Holly Jolly Market. The market was held on Sunday, November 4th at the Model City Event Center in Kingsport, Tennessee. Guests could enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, or goodies from a food truck while they visited the many vendors participating in the market. The first twenty guests received a swag bag, and there were many opportunities for door prizes. It was a great way to start Christmas shopping, with several unique items available. There was also an opportunity for a photo session with Santa. A silent auction was held to raise funding. Children could participate in crafting while their parents shopped. The Secret Santa Project helps provide local families with Christmas gifts and food for a holiday meal. Also, each family gets to make one wish, and those wishes can come true during the party for the families. During the party, parents (or guardians) can transfer the gifts to their car while the children are enjoying the festivities. Families are available for adoption or sponsorship during the holidays. Seasons of Hope, Inc. focuses on families that don’t meet the standard guidelines for assistance through other agencies. To learn more, visit their website at seasonsofhope.com.
ABBIE AND ERIN JUSTICE
KEE-WEE GUINN AND SIERRA
JANIE HAUN AND AMBER RIMER
DAVID SPANGLER AND JENNA KETRON
Hey Santa,
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MATTHEW PENIX
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Is That Beard Real ?
december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE The man in the Santa suit tugged at the long white beard draping down past his chest and winked. “You see that?” he said with a sly trademark chuckle of a veteran Saint Nick, “It didn’t move. Yes. It’s real. I mean of course it’s real. What else did you expect? Look at me. I’m Santa.” Phil Paris of Bristol is the man behind the big red suit and jolly laughs that sprinkle merry good cheer like falling snowflakes across the region every Christmas season. As both kids and adults line up in shopping malls, holiday events, Christmas parties, and private receptions to sit on the lap the world’s most famous gift-giver, they have one shot at convincing Santa they’ve been nice not naughty. And Paris is that man. Nothing short of an annual right of passage, the picture-with-Santa moment has become a staple of the holiday season, a bright eyed and smiling photo slapped on refrigerators nationwide and stuffed in Christmas cards to grandma. With pointed toe elf shoes, a thick black belt buckle, and plumped up red two piece suit trimmed in white, Paris spends countless hours perfecting every detail of the Santa suit as he prepares for a gauntlet of holiday season engagements at malls, parties, and other events to speak with fans and families alike. It’s all meticulously put together. All meticulously thought out. All meticulously detailed. One foot in the suit after another, with his wife and sometime elf photographer Peggy Paris zipping up the back before show time. But one thing will never come off: The Beard. “It’s mine. It’s all mine,” he said. “And I’m proud of this thing.” Phil Paris’ long thick white beard has been growing steadily for the past two years, inspired by an old college friend whose own white mane had landed the friend Santa gigs for the past 20 years in Michigan. “Grow that white stubble out,” the friend encouraged. “When it’s longer you can do what I do,” the friend said. “What’s that?” Phil Paris asked. “What do you think?” the friend asked. “Grow it out and you could be Santa.” Phil chuckled at first, not giving the off-handed comment much thought, but when he climbed in the car with his wife Peggy for the drive home, he began to think. He turned to his wife. “I might just do it,” he said. These days Phil can be found all around town, his eyes twinkling and smile beaming as he does more than just dress up to play the Santa part. To Phil, the Santa gigs are a time to ease the holiday blues, to make both kids – and adults – smile, even if just for a few moments. “Nobody ever expects Santa to be mean. But when you put on this suit, you have to be extra nice. You have to go that extra mile,” he said. “It’s not just about the kids. Sometimes it’s more about the adults. Come on now, you know you believe in me,” he said he tells mom and dad waiting with their children.
Going that extra mile also means keeping the beard year round, and being an active member of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS), the nonprofit community of working Santas, all with real, white, and long beards, dedicated, according to its mission “to keep Christmas magic in the hearts of children of all ages by creating an international Christmas community.” Complete with sensitivity training, best practices and more, the IBRBS dictates Santas’ on-stage behavior, and guidelines for all situations, not just during the holiday season, but year round. “Any joker can throw on a suit and grow a beard,” Paris said. “But not everybody knows how to talk to people. Not everyone knows how to act appropriately. We take this seriously.” One look at the website and it’s true. The nonprofit boasts a member’s portal, board members, a mission and vision statement, and four chapters: Eastern, Central, Mountain and Pacific. Each chapter with five or more members is eligible for insurance and discounts on materials with collective purchasing. This is a community that views donning the Santa suit not just a job or hobby, but as a privilege and Paris champions that notion. “Life is tough enough as it is,” Paris said. “If you can share a little love, makes someone’s day a little easier. That’s what its all about.” With a master class in preparation, Paris not only lives for that smile erupting on a child, or parent, but he also understands in this day and age working with kids can be sensitive. This is why the white Santa gloves are akin to kid gloves, he said. There’s a way to safely and warmly speak with children, to not step on parent’s toes, or not cross the line with kids. True to form just as a little girl sat down to take a picture with Santa at a recent Christmas expo in Bristol, Paris stretched out his long red-suited arm and white-gloved hand, whispering in a warm, kind manner to the eight-year-old, “Ok, I’m going to put my arm around you now for the picture.” She nodded her head up and down. Then the two turned to Paris’ wife Peggy Paris, the photographer, who called out “cheese”. The little girl’s crooked, adorable smile lit up the area. Phil smiles back. His face is warm; his demeanor inviting. Anyone who watches Phil Paris at work would smile too. There is a genuine sense of warmness and kindness to his actions. True, the work is some extra income during the holiday season but that’s an added benefit, not a motivation. There’s just something about the Christmas spirit; the warm-on-the-inside feeling spritzed with a hot-cocoa smell, illuminated with a sparkle of Christmas lights type of magic about the whole ordeal. Paris cherished that as a child. As an adult he fosters it. “Having a Santa face is not something you mail order,” he said. “But it’s a nice gig nonetheless.”
www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
ADAIR MURDOCH AND SANDRA LITTLE
LOU ANN WHITE AND LINDA STANLEY
St. Paul’s 2018 Christmas Bazaar PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church ushered in the holiday season with its annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, November 17th. More than Eighty-five volunteers from the church come together to make this popular event happen each year. Handmade and unique items made by members of the church are available for sale, including Christmas décor, jewelry, bake sale items, and much more. All proceeds from this year ’s Christmas Bazaar benefitted four of St. Paul’s outreach ministries: • St. Paul’s Day School and Kindergarten - scholarship funding for children in need of tuition assistance. • Kingsport’s Community Mission Center (KCMC) - an interfaith charity that provides financial & resource aid to the needy. • The Episcopal Relief & Development Fund - assists food, financial & disaster relief measures in the USA and abroad. • St. Paul’s Youth Mission Trips - fosters youth spiritual compassion for the less fortunate. For more information on St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, please visit www.stpaulskingsport.dioet.org.
KIMBERLY WILSON
LINDA, JONI, AND ELENA
SELINA STRALEY AND PAULETTE POLI
ANNA BRAWLEY AND PAIGE KRAMER
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT CIVIC AUDITORIUM
MELISSA HOOPER AND PATTI GARRETT
ROBIN HILLMAN
ROSEMARY SEXTON
39th Annual Christmas Connection PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Keri Jones has been bringing her daughter, Alissa to the Kingsport Christmas Connection since Alissa was in Elementary School. Now a college graduate, the two continue the tradition and declare that the season of Christmas does not begin until the Christmas Connection is held to start the holidays. It is easy to get in the Christmas mood with Holiday music filling the air and the festive atmosphere.
BRONWYN MCCRACKEN
ALISSA AND KERI JONES
The 39th Annual Christmas Connection was held on the weekend of November 9th – 11th at the Kingsport Civic Auditorium. Admission was free, and those attending were filling their arms with unique artistic creations. Vendors set up booths to sell holiday wreaths, crafts, ornaments, pottery, woodcrafts, handmade soaps, fabric crafts, jewelry, and so much more. Several local authors were also present to autograph copies of their books. Popular booths were selling homemade goodies, kettle corn, and sandwiches. The Kingsport Ballet and Suzuki Talent Education were at the entrance, conducting a bake sale to support their programs. The event, hosted by the Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts, is one of the most popular arts and crafts fairs in the region. It is a great way to support area artisans and applications are available for participation on their website. To learn more about the annual event, visit their website at www.EngageKingsport.com.
CHRISTMAS CONNECTION
WILLIAM MENYA
BECCA SUTPHEN AND JESSICA SMITH
JUDI EASLEY AND SUSAN LODAL
HAILEY RODGERS
www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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SEEN IN
GRAY
HANDS ON! REGIONAL MUSEUM
LORETTA PEARCE AND SHARON GALYON
HEATHER WATSON, MICHELLE MARCHESSAULT, AND MAGGIE DARDEN
DESTINY BAKER AND NISSA BARBOUR
First Annual Night at the
Museum Fundraising Gala PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
To celebrate dropping anchor at their new location in Gray, the Hands On! Discovery Center held a cruise-themed fundraiser called “Night at the Museum”. The evening was full of excitement and activities such as mini-golf, a station to learn how to make a towel creation like on a cruise ship, a photo booth and a make your own margarita bar. Guests could also bid on items in a silent and live auction that was emceed by Josh Smith from WJHL. Main Street Catering provided delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts and Johnson City Brewing provided libations.
SHAWN AND MEGAN HAUGRUD
RICKY MATTHEWS
Proceeds benefitted the new Hands On! Discovery Center. The mission of Hands On! is to inspire discovery and understanding of science and the arts in a place where learning and fun go hand in hand. For more information, visit visithandson.org.
JUNIOR MONDAY CLUB
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BILL BREEDING AND EVE SHERWOOD
EMILY OVERBEY
CARRIE AND PHIL HAUMILLER
KIRSTEN AND RICH HALL
december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
GINA AND MARCOS PAVLOVICH
GENE AND BRENDA WHITSON
JOHN AND LISA KREKELBERG
WILL AND JESSICA BARRETT
RYAN AND SARAH PRESNELL
ALLISON AND RYAN BEAVERS
DEVON HANKEY AND JENNA JACOBS
PAT AND BONNY BREEDING
KRZYSZTOF GOLLNAU AND DOUGLAS GRANT
GENE AND BRENDA WHITSON WITH JOSH SMITH
CRAIG AND KRISTINE CARTER
CHIPPER AND LAURIE
MARK AND CHERYL SIZEMORE
MAGGIE DARDEN AND RACHEL FOGG
www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY FOUNDERS PARK
LISA CARTER AND MISSY
DR. GAYATRI JAISHANKAR AND DR. KAREN SCHETZINA
MYLES, FIRST PLACE!
Scarecrow Skedaddle & Shindig PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Niswonger Children’s Hospital hosted their fourth annual Scarecrow Skedaddle & Shindig on Sunday, October 21st in Johnson City at Founders Park. The family-friendly event was held for people of all fitness levels and physical capabilities. Lisa Carter, chief executive officer of Niswonger Children’s Hospital and Ballad Heath’s vice president of pediatric services welcomed the crowd, cheered the participants, and handed out medals to the champions. A 200-meter modified race started the afternoon activities. Crowds lined up along the course to cheer on each child who participated in the event. Every child had the opportunity to cross a finish line and receive a medal. Students from ETSU supported, encouraged, and cheered on the children.
REAGAN GUESS
KAREN HUBBS AND KAREN SPEROPULOS
Costume awards were presented to the best boy ’s costume (Brody) and the best girl’s costume (Chloe). A 5k race and one-mile fun run followed, with many of the participants dressed up for the enjoyment of the crowd. The female overall award was presented to Reagan Guess and the male winner was Philip Bachman. The shindig in the park, hosted by Niswonger Children’s Hospital, included booths by local organizations to educate parents, allow children to participate in games, have faces painted, and to enjoy snacks! To find out more about Niswonger Children’s Hospital, visit their website at www.balladhealth.org.
ETSU TENNIS
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december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
PHILIP BACHMAN
CHEERING!
KRISTI CARUTHERS, FEMALE MASTERS
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT SLEEPY OWL
JOE AND LUCY FLEMING
LAURA HAREN AND KELLEY PARKER
THE WELL DOGS
Howl For The Owl PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The community of Kingsport came together on Saturday, October 20th to “Howl for the Owl”. Brian Connatser, the owner of Sleepy Owl Brewery, recently experienced a medical emergency. The community has pulled together to provide support for his family during his recovery. One event to raise funding was the “Howl for the Owl” – a pub crawl through Kingsport with live music, food, and auctions.
SARAH BAGWELL AND ROBERT BRENTS
SISTERS, LISA ALLEN AND ANGELA VACHON
Food trucks were set up in the parking lot of Sleepy Owl to offer a variety of food choices. With a wristband, participants began the pub crawl at Sleepy Owl Brewery and then continued on to Stir Fry, Model City Tap House, and High Voltage. The streets of Kingsport were busy with foot traffic as groups traveled among the venues. Proceeds from the sales went to benefit Brian and his family. Sleepy Owl Brewery is located in Downtown Kingsport. The family-friendly venue is a popular gathering spot for music, food, and brews. Several events and fundraisers are being conducted throughout the community in support for Brian. For more information, check their Facebook page or www.sleepyowlbrewery.com.
READY TO “HOWL”!
FRANCES AND RICK ELDRETH
GEORGE AND BELINDA BRIDWELL
RICHIE AND SHERRY WAGNER
DOUG JANZ AND PERRY ANN BUTLER
CHRISTIE AND MARTIN GOTT
MARY AND JOS DE WIT
www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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SEEN IN
BRISTOL BORDERLINE BILLIARDS
SPONSOR AND PLAYERS
JEANETTE LEE
LINE KJORSVIK AND LOREEJON HASSON
Borderline Billiards Charity ProAm PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The highest ranked players of the WPBA (Women’s Professional Billiards Association) were recently in Bristol for the Blue Emu Southern Open tournament hosted by Borderline Billiards. Janet Atwell, owner of Borderline Billiards, is a breast cancer survivor of five years and felt this was a milestone to commemorate by organizing and hosting the event. Janet turned Pro in 2004 and currently is 11th in the Nation and 17th in the World. Pink was the color of the night as survivors of breast cancer and supporters of the disease came out to participate in a Charity ProAm event to benefit Susan G. Komen East Tennessee. The event was held the evening prior to the tournament start and included a meet and greet which provided participants, survivors and sponsors the opportunity to mingle with the WPBA pros, request autographs and capture photos.
FAYE ROARK AND ANGIE CROSS
VIVIEN GREEN AND MEGAN SCHMIDT
One of the crowd favorites was Jeanette Lee, “The Black Widow.” Ms. Lee has won over 27 Championships and was formally the WPBA player of the year. Brittany “The Bombshell” Bryant of Ontario, Canada was crowned tournament champion. Brittiany is currently ranked 3rd in the World. To learn more about Susan G. Komen East Tennessee, visit their website at www.komeneasttennessee.org
BLUE EMU SPONSORS WITH JANET ATWELL
BRITTANY BRYANT – TOURNAMENT CHAMPION
HELENA THORNFELDT
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december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
OKINAWA SLIM, TERRI GREGORY, KAREN HESTER, AND JANET ATWELL
JOHN ESTES
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY INNOVATION LAB
ETSU Innovation Lab Meet & Greet PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
DR. ANDY CUZCHRY AND DR. AUDREY DEPELTEAU
ANTHONY PELUSO AND LIANE VENTURA
Global business wants what our region has to offer: educated, affordable and hard-working employees. That, coupled with the ETSU Innovation Laboratory’s extensive programs and services, make our region especially attractive to international companies. SUSAN WALLACE AND GREG WYCOFF, MD
MARK BAYS AND EDWIN WILLIAMS
Alan Bridwell, Executive Director of NETVRIDA, a regional economic development organization and Dr. Audrey Depelteau, Director of the Innovation Lab and the International Soft Landings Program, explained how they partner with businesses in Europe that are interested in expanding into the United States market. They also explained how their collaboration highlights the many benefits of locating to our region. Innovation Lab and Soft Landings member, Axel Hebmüller, CEO of Hebmüller Aerospace, develops and manufactures valve solutions for modern flow control on aeroplanes. The quality of his products surpass even the most stringent quality levels known in the aerospace industry. During his presentation, he explained that when his German company wanted to expand into the United States he extensively explored three options: Ohio where he had contacts, southern California where the aerospace industry is, or our region because it has a Soft Landings Program. He chose Johnson City because of the strength of the Soft Landings team. Other local individuals and companies also avail themselves of the services of the Innovation Lab. Steve Nice, a local entrepreneur with several successful businesses under his belt, also presented at the luncheon. Most recently, Steve and his wife Sheridan owners of Mona Lisa’s Gelato, made the commitment to tackle the common health issue of gluten sensitivity or intolerance. The extensive research that he and his team (that Dr. Depelteau helped him put together) formulated a dietary supplement to assist in relieving the agonizing effects of gluten. Nice and his team market Gluten Shield® in local health food stores and online. Nice hopes to expand sales and expand the line of supplements.
ALAN BRIDWELL, DR.AUDREY DEPELTEAU, STEVE NICE, AND AXEL HEBMUELLER
For more information about the Innovation Lab, the International Soft Landings Program, or NETVRIDA visit https://www.etsu.edu/ilab/ and http://www.netvaly.org/
SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL HOTEL
Bristol Hotel BECKY GRANT AND ALEXIS BOCK
ASSISTANT GM CODY STALLARD AND BAR MANAGER LEE BLACKWELL
Grand Opening PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY MATTHEW PENIX
When Bristol’s newest boutique hotel opened recently, it marked a first for the city known for its country music. With two 3,000-square-foot ballrooms, a banquet space, rooftop bar, upscale dining, and a doggie service for travelers with pets; the area’s first boutique hotel had already booked up before its doors officially opened.
AMBER AND SUE PROCTOR
With a four-piece string band playing during its public tour opening, hundreds of visitors came to check out its rooms, amenities and the 360-degree view from the rooftop bar towering above the downtown Bristol skyline. As the sun settled on the horizon, everyone from young lawyers to elderly married couples, donned sunglasses and had a cocktail as they looked out from above. “This doesn’t even feel like its Bristol,” said Tiffany Harrison, who along with her girlfriends Mindi Stouts and Neile Asbury. “It’s nice to get a rooftop bar in Bristol. It feels like were on vacation in our backyard.” This is exactly the impact hotel owners wanted. The project in works for years cost north of $20 million, said Assistant GM Cody Stallard. With 65 rooms, and 11 suites ranging from 600 to 1,200 square feet, crystal-like chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, rooms with exposed brick décor and even doggie beds and treats for those who travel with pets, the hotel is the first – and only – boutique hotel in the area. “The goal,” said Stallard, “is to deliver first class experience with a mix of southern hospitality. Ideally, management wants to achieve a four-diamond rating within its first year.” This attention to detail is why of the 400 people interviewed to work at the hotel, only 60 were chosen.
KEN AND CATHY MOSS WITH ANITA AND RON FINK
“This is for the city. This is why it’s named Bristol Hotel. This city is ready for us. And we’re ready for it,” Stallard said.
TIFFANY HARRISON, MINDI STOUTS, AND NEILE ASBURY
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JEAN HONEYCUTT, JAN COMBS, AND MARK CANTY
december 2018 | www.vipseenmag.com
NANCY HEFFERNAN, DONNA KING, AND GENE KING
CARRIE TESTER AND ANGELA GOFOURTH
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT FARMER’S MARKET
PUMPKIN SCULPTING WITH GARY BORTZ
Fall Festival PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The Kingsport Farmer ’s Market held its 1st Annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 20. Along with the community ’s favorite weekly vendors, there was live music, kids’ activities, and much more for the whole family to enjoy. Food City sponsored a caramel apple bar where attendees could create their own flavor combinations. Bortz Graphics conducted pumpkin carving demonstrations and had their own uniquely sculpted pumpkins on display. Keep Kingsport Beautiful and the Kingsport Fire Department were also on site to distribute smoke alarm batteries to Kingsport citizens.
“The Kingsport Farmer ’s Market is hosting our first Fall Festival in celebration of the fall harvest, but also as a thank you to the community that has supported us all season and to our wonderful vendors that work so hard to bring us the best they have to offer week after week. Our hope is to grow this event and make it an annual festival,” said Kristie Leonard, event organizer. The Kingsport Farmer’s Market mission is to provide a vibrant, diverse market place for local and regional farmers and artisans to sell their products to the Kingsport community. For more information on the Kingsport Farmer’s Market, or to sign up for their monthly newsletter, please visit kingsportfarmersmarket.org.
CARLEY AND AIDEN
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What’s Your Christmas Style? W
e all know that there’s a fine line between sanity and insanity, but there’s something about Christmastime that causes otherwise normal people to travel the short distance between the top and “way OVER the top”. For some people, it’s a slow fade over a period of several years; but for others, it happens almost overnight. One day you have one Christmas tree like everyone else, then you add a Christmas village with a few houses, and the next thing you know, the Sheriff’s department is directing traffic in front of your house while you take donations for kids to sit on Santa’s lap and play Christmas games in your front yard. We’re not exactly charging money for kids to walk through our yard to look at decorations (yet), but in the 19 years my husband and I have been married, our Christmas style and approach to decorating have definitely kicked into high gear. Matter of fact, it seems to me that most people typically fall into one of two categories – “Buddy, the Elf” or “Let’s Get This Over With”. So, what’s your Christmas style? WHEN IT COMES TO DECORATING FOR CHRISTMAS, YOU: a.) Start the day after Halloween by putting on your Santa hat and heading to your dedicated “Christmas Room” where all decorations, ornaments, village houses, yard décor, extension cords, garlands, wreaths, and lights are organized by size and color in red and green storage containers with hand lettered chalkboard labels; or ... b.) Tell people that every time someone decorates early for Christmas an elf kills a baby reindeer, and that’s why you wait until the week before Christmas to start decorating. Your decorating strategy consists of telling the kids you’ll give each of them $20 to haul the tree out of the basement and decorate it however they want, because it doesn’t really matter to you as long as the neighbors don’t think you’re a Scrooge or a slacker.
THE
WIT
BIT
WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS SHOPPING, YOU: a.) Start shopping the day after Christmas every year for the following Christmas, so all the perfect gifts are purchased and wrapped by August 1st. This way shopping doesn’t interfere with decorating, hosting Christmas parties, baking, watching Hallmark movies, or celebrating; or ... b.) Wait until Christmas Eve because they have better sales if you wait until hours before Christmas is actually over or just buy everyone on your list gift cards, and use the excuse it’s so they can ‘buy what they want’. WHEN IT COMES TO THE QUALITY OF GIFTS, YOU: a.) Spare no expense because Christmas is all about giving; or ... b.) Just give people the crappy gifts that you have received in the past but hated. (Hint: If you identify with (b.) on this one, be sure not to re-gift a present to the person who gave it to you in the first place. Do not ask me how I know this; just trust me.) When it comes to wrapping presents, you: a.) Make sure all your wrapping paper is bought in coordinating colors with matching bows and hand made cards just like the presents on your “Ho-Ho-Ho” Pinterest Board; or ... b.) Dig out gift bags you have received in years past and throw everything in them because it’s the thought that counts, not the presentation. WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS BAKING, YOU: a.) Spend much of the month of December baking from recipe cards handed down to you by your great-grandmothers; or ... b.) Buy a roll of Nestle Cookie Dough and convince yourself that the cookies are ‘homemade’ if they were actually baked in your oven. WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS MOVIES, YOU: a.) Keep a printed schedule of Hallmark Christmas movies on your desk so you don’t accidentally miss one, and gather your family together every evening to watch them while stringing popcorn and drinking eggnog; or ... b.) You know that every Hallmark Christmas movie has the exact same storyline. Successful girl is engaged to rich, successful man. Successful girl travels to a town in the middle of nowhere that is called “Christmas Falls” or “Holiday Springs” and meets a poor man who teaches underprivileged children for a living. Successful girl falls in love with poor teacher, but doesn’t tell anyone until her obnoxious, yet wealthy, fiancé shows up in town to surprise her. She makes a fool of successful man and marries the poor teacher under the watchful eye of the school janitor named Kris Kringle, who just happens to be a dead ringer for Santa Claus. No matter what your Christmas style, I pray that you and yours have a blessed CHRISTmas season and that your 2019 is filled with lots of love and laughter!
! s d n e i r F , s a m t Merry Chris Love, Beth 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 58
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SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
MELISSA REESE, KELLY CULP, AND RACHEL DENNEY
JUSTIN, KENDRA, AND KAYLA
FESTIVE FUN!
CIGNA Speedway in Lights 5K PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The annual CIGNA Speedway in Lights 5K was held on Sunday, November 11th to kick off the holiday season at Bristol Motor Speedway. Participants were the first to see the hundreds of displays and millions of lights at Bristol Motor Speedway. Runners finished to a holiday party, complete with Christmas cookies, inside the Speedway! One of the most popular races in the region, the 5K benefits Speedway Children’s Charities.
ELI AND KELLY SHARRETT
WARREN ADLER
Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities was founded in 1996 to help children in the surrounding area of Bristol Motor Speedway by Bruton Smith, Chairman of the Board of Speedway Motorsports, Inc. Operating as a non-profit organization, Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities is governed by a board of local trustees whose sole purpose is to distribute the funds raised each year to qualified local children’s-based non-profit organizations. For questions or more information, please visit www.speedwaycharities.org or call 423-989-6975.
ASHLEY AND OLIVIA HALL WITH HOLLY HARRIS
AMBER MULLINS, CINDY BARY, AND LINDSEY STURGILL
RILEIGH FLEENOR AND BREE ADAMS
KELLY AND CHAD SHELTON
CLAUDIA BYRD, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SPEEDWAY CHILDREN’S CHARITIES
JILL AND STEVE BICKFORD
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SEEN IN
ABINGDON BARTER THEATRE
JUSTIN SLONE, WENDY WHITE, AND KALONN GENTRY
THE 2019 SEASON
Barter Reveal for 2019 Season PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Barter Theatre of Abingdon, Virginia announced their 2019 season lineup during an exclusive event highlighting select excerpts from various upcoming productions on Wednesday, October 17th. Barter Theatre’s Resident Acting Company were present on the stage as the season was revealed. The actors provided the audience with a look ahead featuring an assortment of songs and scenes from the productions scheduled for 2019. Shows included in the season lineup are “Madame Buttermilk,” “Camelot,” “The Producers,” Shrek: The Musical,” and “White Christmas.” The 2019 season will include more than sixteen incredible productions with diverse programming for a wide array of audiences.
ELIZABETH HICKMAN AND LISA BARKER
MARY LUCY BIVINS
Richard Rose, Producing Artistic Director of Barter Theatre, welcomed the crowd and introduced the various shows. The audience cheered as Sean Campos started off the event with a musical number from Camelot. The entire acting company closed out the event with “White Christmas” and sent everyone away with anticipation for a fantastic season. After the reveal, refreshments were set up for the attendees, the actors, and staff of Barter Theatre were available for questions and comments. Barter Theatre’s 2019 season will begin in February. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit their website at www.bartertheatre.com.
RICHARD ROSE
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SEAN CAMPOS
KATY BROWN AND HERSHELL CAVE
NICHOLAS PIPER AND TRICIA MATTHEWS
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY CARNEGIE HOTEL
DARREN WHITED, ANTHONY PIERCY, HOLLY BOOKER, CANDY STIELER, AND WESLY GARLAND
MILY DANNER AND MELINDA WOODALL
NOLA HUMPHREY, DIANE COOPER, CHUCK MASON, AND TAMMY ALMOND
Spirits of the Season PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY MATT PENIX
Ed Gerace waltzed through the doors of Johnson City’s Carnegie Hotel last month for Spirits of the Season, an annual cancer fundraiser, and immediately ran into an old friend. JANE MURPHY, CHUCK WORKMAN, AND LEAH HURST
HUGH FERGUSON, ELLEN FERGUSON PATTERSON, AND MIKE SPIEGLER
BRTITTANY BOTLER, CHRISTI BLALOCK, AND AUBREY TALARICO
BILL BREEDING AND EVE SHERWOOD
LEAH WHITSON AND CHRISTINA CROSSNO
“This is what we come for,” he said smiling ear to ear as he gave his old friend a handshake that seamlessly morphed into a hug. “This is what makes this event so nice. You see the same old friends every year.” With hundreds attending the annual cocktail event sponsored by One Stop Wine & Spirits event this year, it was no surprise old friendships would be renewed and new ones born. With roughly 120 spirits served on ice, mixed or straight up, men and woman dressed in their Sunday best and from all walks of life clinked glasses, toasted and cut loose throughout two ballrooms. In between laughs and sips, a smorgasbord of delicious delights prepared by the Johnson City Country Club fed all. Black tie servers darted amongst the crowd serving the freshest hors d’oeuvres while others surrounded a centerpiece spread to nibble one just one more piece of sausage, shrimp cocktail, fancy cheese spreads, and sweet everythings from desserts to potatoes. At $60 a ticket if prepurchased, this marquee cancer fundraiser which has been going on well over a decade, was expected to raise roughly $20,000 or more for cancer treatment and research, said Holly Booker, a marketer for the event who was still tallying final numbers as of press time. “Because of One Stop Wines & Spirits’ generosity, 100 percent of your ticket price helps the American Cancer Society attack cancer from every angle,” one event announcement card read. “Your donation is not only providing ground breaking research, but also helping patients get free rides to treatment, free lodging near hospitals, and a 24/7 cancer help line.”
MIKE SPIEGLER AND WESLEY HETCHER
For Gerace, seeing old friends every year is just part of the event’s charm. Remembering those already lost is the true draw, he said. Ben Sharfstein, former owner of One Stop who passed away from cancer and whose passing helped inspire son and current one stop owner Phil Sharfstein to donate the spirits, happened to one of Gerace’s best friends. “This event, a staple in the area, is sort of like a tradition. It kicks off the holiday season,” Gerace said. “But in the end I’m here to honor Ben. (His passing) was tough on me … but in a way we’re all here to honor those battling cancer.”
DANIELLE WRIGHT, SANDY SHELTON, KELLY WHALEY, AMY WILSON, AND ROBERT WILSON
Now that’s something to raise a glass about! Cheers to the good spirits abounding this holiday season. www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT
HAYLEE SMITH AND ALEXIS BRADLEY, ETSU
ANDY WARNER, DR. SUSAN CREECH, TAYLOR WOODS, LOIS LOVIN, AND CHERI DRAPER
Kingsport Boys & Girls Club Book Celebration
LOIS LOVIN AND OLIVIA PRESHONG
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HALEY WHITE
The holidays are a great time for giving and showing your support for the community. Colonial Heights Dental Group did just that by organizing a book drive with other local businesses. On November 13, the books were dispersed to children at the Kingsport Boys & Girls Club during their Book Celebration event. Colonial Heights Dental Group, along with Andy Warner Insurance, A Super Party, Bear and Friends Kingsport, Blush Salon, and Ridgefields Country Club collected over 1,500 books. This surpassed their initial goal of 1,000.
SHARON SHIPP, GOOD NEWS CLUB BIBLE STUDY
“We are so excited by how the community came together for this cause. People who weren’t even patients were coming by to drop off books!” said Dr. Susan Creech of Colonial Heights Dental Group. This was their fifth year hosting this book drive. Kids of all ages were thrilled to be able to take home multiple books this evening. Any remaining books were dispersed to other local Boys & Girls Clubs. To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club visit http://www.kbgc.org
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KINGSPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT FARMER’S MARKET
JEFF FLEMING
STEVE AND TRIDA LAHAIR
MELANIE BUCHANAN, WHITNEY CARR, AND ASHLEY STEWART
City of Kingsport Employees BBQ & Picnic PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Horizon Credit Union hosted their annual Barbeque and Picnic for the City of Kingsport employees on Friday, October 26th at the Kingsport Farmer ’s Market. Chef ’s Pizza of Kingsport catered the event, making sure that every guest had a delicious lunch. STACY AND ALISON FIELDS
ROCHELLE TRENT AND MIKE BILLINGSLEY
Horizon Credit wanted to show appreciation and honor to the employees who work to make Kingsport “The Model City.” All employees and retirees were invited to attend, and it was obvious that the employees look forward to attending the popular event. Diana (“DeeDee”) Baker, Chief Financial Officer of Horizon explained how Horizon Credit Union has roots with the city from a merger with Municipal Employees Credit Union in 1932. Horizon Credit Union strives to help city employees with competitive rates and friendly service. The atmosphere at the picnic showed evidence that many employees of Horizon Credit Union knew the employees by name and were happy to welcome them to the event. Door prizes were awarded to various employees through a raffle drawing. Lucky individuals left the event with $100 gift cards to different stores and restaurants. The City of Kingsport website lists job openings and benefits at www.kingsporttn.gov. To learn more about Horizon Credit Union, visit their website at www.hzcu.org.
CRYSTAL PRICE AND YVETTE PATE
BOBBIE PHILLIPS
MIKE MCINTIRE
DEEDEE BAKER
STACY JERRELL AND AUDREY LINKOUS
HOSS ROBERTS AND JEFF LANE
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY BLACKTHORN CLUB
ANDY AND HAYLEY DIETRICH WITH GARY MABREY
CHRIS AND LORRAINE SCARAZZO
JESSE STREET AND MELANIE WILLIAMS
36th Annual Taste of Johnson City PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On Monday, October 29th, Patrons from all over the Tri-Cities gathered at the beautiful Blackthorn Club to enjoy the 36th Annual Taste of Johnson City. It was a magical evening to sample specialties from area restaurateurs, caterers, and beverage distributors. From entrees to desserts they had it all! Everyones mouths were watering as they made their way from station to station to sample the latest and greatest Johnson City and the surrounding areas have to offer. When asked about the event, Gary Mabrey - President/CEO of the chamber said “It’s a chance to go to places you haven’t been or places you like and you get to meet their chefs and the cooks and their management team outside the restaurant.” Mr. Mabrey always promotes regionalism and local business everywhere he goes. He and the Chamber staff greeted all guests in attendance with infectious smiles, welcoming hugs, and warm handshakes. All proceeds of this event went to benefit the Chamber of Commerce serving Johnson City, Jonesborough, and Washington County Tennessee. It is a private, voluntary, non-profit corporation uniting over 900 businesses and professionals for the purpose of improving the business environment and eco-nomic climate in our community. Partnering with local governments and other organizations, the Chamber is very involved in pursuing improvements in the overall quality of life for the city, county, and region. Particularly in the areas of transportation, education, healthcare, tourism, economic development, community development, and workforce development.
JEFF AND ROBIN WILLIAMS
JOHNSON CITY CHAMBER
Participants from this year ’s event included Aubrey ’s, Barberito’s Southwestern Grille & Cantina, Blackthorn Club at The Ridges, BoneFish Grill, Bronco Wine Company, Burger Bar at DoubleTree Hotel, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop, Cherokee Distributing, Coca-Cola Bottling, Corinthian Bistro, East Coast Wings + Grill, Firehouse Restaurant & Catering, Holston Distributing, Johnson City Brewing Company, Johnson City Country Club, McAlister ’s Deli, Olive Garden, Pepsi Beverages Co., Rainbow Asian Cuisine, Sodexo at ETSU/Millennium Center, Surf N Brew, Tennessee Hills Distillery and Universal Wine & Spirits. More information regarding the Chamber and other events like this can be found at www.johnsoncitytnchamber.com
CHRIS HALEY WITH RAB AND NITA SUMMERS
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PAUL AND PENNY OGLETREE
GOOD TIMES WITH FRIENDS CHAD AND JENNIFER RUTHERFORD
JEFF DERBY AND KIM LANHAM
DAMIEN BRYANT AND JOY MCCRAY
HAPPY GUESTS
BRAD CORNELISON AND JENNA MOORE
MICHELLE BROWNING AND KELLY WOLFE
SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY VENUE AT THE KING CENTRE
VERONICA AND DEBBIE ROBERSON WITH STEPHEN HENDRIX
GAYLE SUTHERLAND AND DALE STOOPS
Red Shoe
MARK AND DOTTIE STUMP
Masquerade PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On Saturday, November 3, 2018 CASA of Northeast Tennessee held their 13th annual Red Shoe Masquerade at VENUE at the King Centre in Johnson City. This year, the Red Shoe Masquerade featured dinner by Lost Mountain Catering, Live DJ and Dancing, both silent and live auctions, and a special performance by Johnson City Ballroom. The red shoe theme, reminiscent of Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz and her desire to go home, coincides with CASA’s mission to place the abused and neglected kids in our community in a safe and permanent home. Just like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, the children CASA serve want to be permanently home as quickly as possible. Red shoes are worn to symbolize Dorothy ’s ruby slippers that eventually take her home. At CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Northeast Tennessee, their mission is to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in the juvenile court system. They believe that every child is entitled to a safe and stable home. Trained volunteers are the child’s voice to ensure that their needs are identified and addressed.
ASHTON KYKER AND KATHIE SCALF
ANDREA GENTRY AND STEPHANIE RASMUSSEN
ALEX MELENDEZ AND ALEXIS GREEN
AMANDA BACHMAN, SANDY BARKER, AND SHAYNE COLLINS
CASA of Northeast Tennessee had its beginnings as an East Tennessee State University initiative when, in 1985 at the initiative of the Sociology Department, funds were obtained through a one-time grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to establish the organization. In 2004, CASA of Northeast TN moved out from under the umbrella of ETSU and became established as an 501(c) 3 entity. since then, CASA of Northeast TN has made tremendous progress, increasing full-time staffing, opening a Greeneville TN satellite office, and growing their group of Volunteer Advocates to more than 70. The most telling and compelling dimension of their history will surely to be reflected in the lives of the children they have spoken for and assisted in the trying process of finding a safe, stable, and caring home in which to grow and become adults and citizens of merit. You can learn more about CASA of Northeast Tennessee by visiting casanetn.org. 66
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SHANE LEONARD AND MICHELLE CAGGIANO
KATHY AND ED SIMERLY
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT FOOD CITY
LINDA BRITTENHAM AND GARY MAYES
GREG JOHNSON AND MELONY ISON
POLICE CHIEF QUILLEN AND OFFICER T.M. PATTON
HOPE Community Breakfast PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
The friends, supporters, and donors for HOPE (Help Our Potential Evolve) gathered at Food City on Eastman Road in Kingsport for an early breakfast before one of their largest fundraising days of the year. HOPE Youth Board members gave presentations on a few of the multitude of learning projects that HOPE provides for its members. One of those projects received state recognition for its health initiative.
LINDA ROBINSON, SELINA HALL, AND JASMINE MCMANUS
GARY MOORE, CHAIBA BLOOMER, AND GARY WHITTINGTON
Jasmine Schmidt and Taniyha Phillips described the trip to the Atlanta area to see some historical sights and visit some historical learning institutions. Educating the students is among the top priorities for the non-profit. HOPE also holds weekly tutoring, teaches life skills, and finances courses geared toward success with purchasing real estate, savvy grocery skills and how to shop the healthy way. HOPE is also launching its “Drugs are trashy so stay classy” drug free campaign and helping other communities who wish to launch similar programs. The youth board finished talking about the amazing accomplishments of the past year just in time to enjoy some breakfast and use the rest of their fall break to volunteer for the HOPE Spaghetti Lunch Fundraiser. For more information on how you can donate or volunteer to make a difference through the HOPE program, please visit them at www.hopetricities.com.
STELLA ROBINETTE, CINDY HAWKINS, AND SHARON DUNCAN
KEITH AND SHIRLEY JOHNSON
TANIYHA PHILLIPS
CHAIBA BLOOMER, JEFF TANKERSLEY, ALAN PICKLE, AND TEDDY GAINES
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EXPERIENCE MATTERS. Today’s Technology with Yesterday’s Values
So pleased with the quality of service! A+ for a job well done! – Desirae (GEICO Customer)
“Your family’s safety is our family’s first priority.” Family owned & operated
SERVING TENNESSEE, VIRGINIA, KENTUCKY, AND NORTH CAROLINA.
423.392.2001 | 2005 Brookside Lane | Kingsport, TN
BOUNDLESS PERSPECTIVE A TESTIMONIAL
The Scary Call So about a month ago we got the call ... you know that scary call that every parent dreads when their child learns to drive - our 16 year old daughter had been in an accident. Thankfully she and her brother were okay, as was the driver of the other vehicle, but we were left with a very damaged car. One of our first calls was to Millennium Auto Collision Repairs in Kingsport, TN. We had worked with Millennium on a previous repair and asked our insurance company if we could work with them again. The Millennium team coordinated seamlessly with our claims adjuster and kept us in the loop the whole way. They detailed the car so it was pristine when it was returned to us, and now there is no sign that an accident ever happened. Their customer service is incredible, and they make every client feel like family. We highly, highly thank them for the care they gave us. It is easy to find negatives everywhere we look. We see it very quickly in the news and on social media. So, we wanted to take a minute and really celebrate a company that went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure we were not just covered by the book, but that our family was cared for, looked after, and treated with respect and dignity. – Trisha and David Burke, Kingsport, TN, excerpted from Trisha’s blog, “The Boundless Perspective”
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY LIGERO CIGAR LOUNGE
GEORGE BROWN AND JOAN KOELBEL
FRANK STREBECK, BRITT HARRIS, DUSTIN MORRIS, AND ADAM MURRAY
JOHN AND DON GOINS
Tatuaje/L’atelier
Cigar Event PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
As a way to say thank you to their customers and members, on thursday evening, October 25th, the Libation Station Ligero Cigar Lounge hosted a Tatuaje/L’atelier Cigar event. Great smokes, food, fun, and drinks were the perfect combination for a great night. There were some extremely limited cigars available from Tatuaje / L’atelier. Orpheus Brewing from Atlanta, Georgia was onsite and pouring beers from their multi award winning craft brewery. Simms pizza and catering provided the food for this event.
JIM RINEHARDT AND JOHN WILLIAMS
The Ligero Cigar Lounge is a one-of-a-kind smoking lounge for members only featuring five 47” HD flat screen TVs, an 11 ft. HD flat screen projection TV, pool table, fireplace and a 400 sq. ft. walkin humidor, wrapped and sealed in 100% Spanish cedar, the best humidor in the Southeast. For information on future events or becoming a member please libationplaza.com. KEVIN PHILLIPS, TATUAJE REPRESENTATIVE
GREAT TIMES WITH FRIENDS
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ADAM MURRAY AND CHAD MENSCH
JASON WALLS AND JIM WOODS
SEEN IN
BRISTOL BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
STEPHANIE AND CHRIS HERNANDEZ
DEONNA CARRANZA AND STEVE VROOMAN
MICHELLE, STEPHANIE, AND GAIL
Tastings, Bites, and
Twinkling Lights PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
PATRICK AND KAREN DUBAY
BRITTANY LONG AND TINA ISON
On Sunday, November 18th guests went to the top of Bristol Motor Speedway for Tastings, Bites, and Twinkling Lights. In the luxurious Bristol Club Suites, attendees had a great view overlooking the holiday lights on the track. The event featured a Wine Pull with a variety of premium local wines, as well as local restaurants and breweries with their holiday specials offering guests a taste of perfection from their business. Featured vendors included: • • • • • •
Proceeds from the event benefitted Speedway Children’s Charities. Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities was founded in 1996 to help children in the surrounding area of Bristol Motor Speedway by Bruton Smith, Chairman of the Board of Speedway Motorsports, Inc. Operating as a non-profit organization, Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities is governed by a board of local trustees whose sole purpose is to distribute the funds raised each year to qualified local children’s-based non-profit organizations. For questions or more information, please visit www.speedwaycharities.org or call 423-989-6975.
BETH JONES, PAM KELLEY, AND REBA BARBER
JACKIE AND TONY HEWITT
Studio Brew Yee Haw Brewing The Blackthorn Club at the Ridges Buttermilk Sky Pie Abingdon Olive Oil The Martha Washington Inn
ASHTON WHITE
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT MEADOWVIEW MARRIOT CONFERENCE RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER
OPPORTUNITY TO WIN DIAMONDS!
WES AND JOY EASTRIDGE
STEVE AND CATHY KILGORE
Friends in Need Annual
Fundraising Event PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Friends in Need Health Center (FIN) was chartered in 1993 and began operations as a Christian Ministry in 1995. Each year they host a fundraising event to support the ministries they offer to the community. This year ’s event was “A Night of Fun in Kingsport”. The evening began with a social hour that included a silent auction, photo booth, and Diamond Dig. The four-course dinner included Mushroom Bisque, Garden Salad, Filet Mignon, and a Lemon Italian Cream Cake. During the dinner, Martha Painter, harpist, provided background music.
DR. NATHAN AND ZELDA RIDGEWAY
A special presentation was made to Dr. Nathan Ridgeway by Bruce Sites, Executive Director, and Steve Kilgore, President of the Board of Directors. Dr. Ridgeway has had an outstanding sixty-three years of service as a physician. He has served FIN for sixteen years. A live auction had the crowd competing for many high demand items. After the auction, nationally renowned comedian, Brian Kiley entertained the crowd with his witty routine. Mr. Kiley is the head monologue writer for Conan O’Brien. Friends in Need is dedicated to support regionally, affordable medical and dental care for the working uninsured residents of Sullivan, Hawkins, Washington, and Greene Counties in Tennessee and Scott, Lee, and Wise Counties in Virginia. Since the inception of FIN, medical and dental care has been delivered through over 110,000 patient encounters. For more information about Friends in Need, visit their website at www.friendsinneed.org.
HARRY AND PAT TURNER
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FRED AND BETSY COOPER
PRESENTATION TO DR. RIDGEWAY
TOM AND JO BROCK
DUKE DUKART
GINA AND FRED PINNEY
CHRISSY AND WESLEY IDLETTE
ROSALEE SITES AND JO BROCK
SAM AND DEBORAH MULLINS
DEVIN CRADIC AND RACHEL BUCKLES
MARTHA PAINTER
RETTA AND BRAD OVERTURF
SUZI AND JEFF MCKEE
PARKER AND KAY ANN SMITH
SEEN IN
JONESBOROUGH DOWNTOWN JONESBOROUGH
CARRIE DEAL AND KENDRA O’QUINN
MATTHEW AND ASHLEY
ELLEN MADDOCK AND VALERIA GORTMAKER
10th Annual Haunted Half
Marathon and Boo to Brew Relay PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
Monsters, skeletons, witches and more ran through Downtown Jonesborough on Saturday, October 27th for the 10th Annual Haunted Half Marathon and Boo to Brew Relay. This year, the event introduced the new Monster Mile, for both adults and kids to run a mile through Tennessee’s oldest and most haunted town. Runners also dressed up in unique and creative Halloween costumes in an attempt to win the costume contest. STEVE AND KEVIN HENSLEY
KELLY GRIEB AND CHELSEA MORSE
MELVIN AND MISSY SCHAFFER AND MIKE RADER
KAITLIN ASBURY AND MELODY TAYLOR
For more information on upcoming events, visit www.werunevents.com.
MARIA KOSH AND ASHBY CUNNINGHAM
CAREBEARS!
LAURA WATROUS
LIGHTING THE CANDLE TO START THE FESTIVITIES
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SEEN IN
KINGSPORT KINGSPORT FAMER’S MARKET
DARRELL AND SHARON DUNCAN
CRYSTAL AND JAMES PHILLIPS
Halloween Bash
BIANCA SMITH, CHRISTA GIBSON, TERESA WALKER, AND ERIKA MCCLAIN (3RD PLACE)
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Monsters, ghouls, zombies, witch doctors, and so many more turned out for the Tri-Cities largest Halloween party on Saturday, October 27th at the Kingsport Farmer ’s Market.
The beat was thumping as dancing delighted the crowd. Music was by Acoustifried and a live DJ entertained during the live music breaks. Food and drink were available from food trucks parked at the market, with the event being sponsored by Bud Light, but only for those eighteen years and older. The highlight of the evening was the costume contest, with $1500 in prizes. All entrants joined in a parade across the stage for judges to pare down to the top ten contenders. The crowd then cheered for their favorites to reduce the contest to five. The cheers and claps were loud for the top three winners. Bianca Smith, Christa Gibson, Teresa Walker, and Erkica McClain were awarded third place for their “Price is Right” costumes. Second place went to Brett Gourley, Olivia Bray, Jennifer and Alex Mayes for their black and white depiction of “I Love Lucy.” The winner of $1000 was Nicki Lawson and her dancing witch doctors.
BRETT GOURLEY, OLIVIA BRAY, JENNIFER, AND ALEX MAYES (2ND PLACE)
The creativity of costumes and joy of dancing ensured that everyone enjoyed this event. Maybe it is time to start planning for a costume for next year? The prize and the fun are worth the effort!
ALLISON GALLOWAY AND JOHN PENDLETON
ROBIN CLEARY
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MORGAN AND LINDA KING
MIKE AND ANGEL EDWARDS
JURNEE CARR
SHANNA AND TRAVIS BRIGHT (13 GHOSTS)
ACOUSTIFRIED
TERRY AND GINA MOORE
ANDREIA AND OSCAR LUCIO
MARIAH AND BREANNA FLEENOR
NICKIE LAWSON (1ST PLACE)
BILLY AND DALE GREENE
DONNY AND ANGELA FREE
MORGAN KING AND WHITNEY CARR
JERRY CAVIN AND PANDY ELKINS
KEITH AND AMANDA BARKER
JOEY CALDWELL AND JANET REED
STEPHANIE AND RICHARD HARBIN
BRIAN AND HEATHER NECESSARY
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY THE MILLENNIUM CENTRE
AMY THOMAS AND BOBBI LOVE
ASH WILLIAMS AND NOAH DAVIS
JENA RADFORD AND CODI TAYLOR
2nd Annual Dawn of
Hope Spooktacular PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
On Thursday, October 25, Dawn of Hope held their 2nd Annual Dawn of Hope Spooktacular at the Millennium Centre in Johnson City. Attendees broke out their most creative costumes in an effort to win the costume contest. Guests could also enter the reverse raffle – with a grand prize of $10,000. A live and silent auction, fun music, and hors d’oeuvres made for a spooky good night! All proceeds benefitted Dawn of Hope. Dawn of Hope is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a wide array of services to people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. For more information, please visit www.dawnofhope.com.
PHIL, RENA, LAUREN SCHARFSTEIN, AND BRACKTON SMITH
MIKE AND HEATHER MEREDITH
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PAM COX AND PAULA BRIDGES
STEVE COX
NINA AND MIKE MARCHIONI
CASSIE WARREN
LISA PAWLEY AND JANIE WHITTIMORE, EVENT ORGANIZERS
SEEN IN
BRISTOL PARAMOUNT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Theatre Bristol
2019 Season Reveal Gala PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
Theatre Bristol revealed its 2019 season of dramas and musicals as part of its arts benefit gala on Friday, November 9 at the Paramount Center for the Arts. Following the reveal announcement, food, drinks, and live Broadway show tunes, guests enjoyed Theatre Bristol’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof ” directed by Glenn Patterson. Guests were also entered to win a pair of 2019 season tickets. The following shows were announced as the lineup for Theatre Bristol’s 2019 Season: • • • • • •
Cinder Red Robin Hood & The Seven Dwarfs Wizard of Oz Sherlock Holmes Trial of the Big Bad Wolf Into the Woods Miracle on 34th Street
Founded in 1965, Theatre Bristol is the oldest continually running children’s theatre in northeast Tennessee and is now celebrating its 53rd season. Its performances take place in the ARTspace, a multi-purpose, black box theatre as well as the Paramount Center for the Arts. Theatre Bristol is entirely volunteer run and invites you to get involved. For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-212-3625, or email info@theatrebristol.org.
SAMANTHA GRAY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND SUZANNE ELEAS, BOARD CHAIR
CAROL AND KENN NAEGELE
JESSICA AND SPENCE FLAGG
MELINDA CASTLE AND HALEY WHITE
SEEN IN
BRISTOL THE VIRGINIAN
STEVE LOONEY, DAVID REYNOLDS, AND STEVE SMITH
STEVE TUNNELL AND JASON THORNE
ELAINE AND BOB FIFE
Swinging Fore a Cause PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
“Swinging Fore A Cause” was held on Monday, October 30th at The Virginian Golf Club. The four-person scramble tournament included a buffet lunch, player gifts, a round of golf, and an awards reception for all the golfers. Prizes were awarded for the top three teams, longest drive, closest to the pin, putting contest, and a hole-in-one car. The hole-in-one car was a Cadillac provided by Champion of Johnson City, TN. It was a perfect day for golf on the beautiful course designed by Tom Fazio. The Virginian has been honored as one of the Top 100 in America by several national publications. The pastoral setting and views made it a memorable day for all attending.
ELAINE FIFE
DONNA AND JIM HARLAN
AND THEY ARE OFF!
WINE TASTING
The Pat Summitt Foundation and Kingsport Community Foundation presented the event, with Joan Cronan serving as the Honorary Chairperson. The intent was to raise funding for The Pat Summitt Foundation that was established by Tyler Summitt in 2011 and for Kingsport Community Foundation grantmaking in Sullivan County and surrounding communities. The foundation awards grants to non-profit organizations whose mission is focused on Alzheimer ’s patient care, medical research, and caregiver support. Kingsport Community Foundation was founded in 2000 through gifts from local donors and a matching grant from East Tennessee Foundation. To learn more about The Pat Summitt Foundation, visit their website at www. patsummitt.org. Information on the Kingsport Community Foundation is available at easttennesseefoundation.org/Sullivan.
PRACTICE BEFORE PLAY!
CHARLIE PATTON, ROBERT PEACH, JOAN CRONAN, FRED WALLIN, AND DAVID LUNCEFORD
PAIGE DOVE, PHIL BEGLEY, CONDREDGE HOLLOWAY, JASON THORNE, AND DAVIS REYNOLDS
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SUNNY BIDEN, TRUDY HUGHES, SAMANTHA AMICK, AND ADAM WALLER
SEEN IN
BRISTOL DOWNTOWN BRISTOL
ANGELA AND GWYNNIE HARMON
KELLI GARRETT AND MAKALEIGH JESSEE
TANNA HAGY, PAULA NICHOLS, AND JONEEN SINGLETON
YWCA Turkey Trot 5K PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ALLISON GALLOWAY
The 38th annual YWCA Turkey Trot 5K was held on November 17th. The Turkey Trot is a ladies only event hosted by the YWCA NETN and SWVA Women’s Fitness Center that encourages women to achieve their fitness goals. It is the longest running all women’s 5K in the Tri-Cities that features joggers and walkers of all skill levels.
ANDY AND SHELLY
JEANINE MYATT AND KYRIE
All proceeds from the race benefitted the health and wellness programs of YWCA NETN and SWVA. YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. For more information about the YWCA, please visit www.ywcatnva.org.
MARY LOU SPROLES, MARY ANNE HANSON, AND FREDA HORNER
CINDY AND SCOTT PLACE
STACIE BABECKA AND JENNIFER SMITH
MADISON AND KRISTINA GREEN
ANDREA HICKS AND CHRISTY ROSE
LAURA WOOD, KRISTEN BUNN, JESSIE WOOD, AND HELEN GARDNER
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SEEN IN
BRISTOL THE BRISTOL HOTEL
GRANT CAUDILL, SHANA JONES, AND KEVIN KILGORE
SHANA JONES, DEBORAH MCCROSKEY, RICHARD ROSE, AND KEVIN KILGORE
Wells Fargo Check
APPALACHIAN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Presentations PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Wells Fargo had some big checks to deliver on Tuesday morning, November 13th at The Bristol Hotel. This well-attended event sought to honor those who work in nonprofit organizations that benefit the needy and the greater Tri-Cities/Southwest Virginia area. Eleven organizations were recognized for their service, with a total of $121,500 being awarded.
BELIEVE IN BRISTOL
Grant Caudill (Vice President and District Manager for Consumer Banking) illuminated Wells Fargo’s history of philanthropy and reiterated the company ’s commitment to serving the communities in Southwest Virginia and the Tri-Cities. Locally, the company gave gifts as large as $25,000. Shana Jones (Vice President and Senior Business Relationship Manager for Commercial Banking) announced the recipients to attendees and the media. She also presided over ceremonial awards to the recipients and allowed each organization to publicize its’ mission to others who work in the community service arena. Eleven organizations were recognized for their service, with a total of $102,000 being awarded. Those organizations included: Appalachian Sustainable Development, Healing Hand, YWCA, Girls Inc., United Way of Bristol, Washington County Habitat, People Inc., Second Harvest, Believe in Bristol, Second Harvest Food Bank, The Health Wagon, Family Crisis Support Services, Food Bank of Wise County, Virginia Highlands Festival, Bristol Public Library, and Southwest Virginia Community College.
BARTER THEATRE
Barter Theater was honored to receive a check of $25,000 to support Barter Theatre’s Project REAL and education program. Project Real places teaching artists in schools around the region to assist teachers in engaging their students with the curriculum. Kevin Kilgore (Vice President and Business Acquisition Officer) closed the meeting with comments about Wells Fargo’s appreciation for the individuals in the room and the bank’s recognition of the hard work and diligence that goes into making our community more livable. TERESA TYSON, SHANA JONES, AND CARA ROBINSON
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SHANA JONES, KATHY FEAGINS, AND KATHY WAUGH
VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
EDDIE ROSS Design It Like You Love It! A House Dressing Exclusive Event PHOTOS AND STORY BY MATTHEW PENIX
EDDIE ROSS IS A MODEST MAN. Despite legions of fans, a social media following as large as a city, millions of readers and famous friends, Ross, a former reality TV star famous in the culinary and interior design scene, compresses life down to its bare bones. He’s an everyman from Pennsylvania. It just so happens he’s an everyman with a camera constantly in his face.
In fact, it was during a chance meeting with Stewart that she recommended Ross attend the famed Culinary Institute of America before he embarked on a career in the home and dining style arena. “She told me go to this school, and I’ll hire you. So I went, graduated, and reached out. She stuck with her word…after I cut my hair,” Ross said laughing. “It was amazing.”
But this is Ross’s charm. As east coast editor of “House Beautiful,” and a contributor to “Vogue,” “Woman’s Day,” “Family Circle” and other esteemed magazines, Ross has made a living off living on a budget – then teaching others the same. His famous style dubbed “Modern Mix” combines upscale chic with yard-sale type finds, a design niche that resonates with TV producers, interior designers, restoration artists and home owners alike.
Stewart knew what she was talking about. Ross alma mater is a factory line of famous chefs, a school that produced luminaries such as Anthony Bourdain; Steve Ells, founder and CEO of Chipotle; “Iron Chef” judge Michael Symon and guest David Burke; recurring “Today Show” guest Rocco DiSpirito; Food Network’s Michael Chiarello; James Beard Award winner John Besh and dozens more of household names. Ross took a similar trajectory as his classmates.
So when Ross, along with his partner Jaithan Kochar, stopped in Bristol, TN., this past October for a book signing and tour of House Dressing, a 350-plus item consignment shop, its no surprise that a flock of men, woman, design professionals and more stopped in to nibble on hors d’oeuvres, drink wine and sit for a design symposium with Ross.
Ross practices what he preaches too. Decked out in a cream blazer with brown suede elbow patches, complimented with a pocket square, nice jeans, collared shirt, and ornate slip on shoes, Ross looked like he’s on set for a TV show. But true to his brand, Ross laughs when he’s complimented on his dress. He opens up his blazer, showing off the label inside. It’s H&M, a clothing line chain aimed at fresh looks but at TJ Maxx prices.
“His book is all about what we do,” said Landy Mathes, manager of House Dressing. “And to have a stylist that’s done all what he’s done… well people like that don’t come to Bristol everyday. It’s exciting.” His keen eye for detail and down home personality has propelled him to the east coast editor of House Beautiful, a guess spot on HDTV’s show “Top Design” and a longtime friendship with style icon Martha Stewart, a mentor who offer Ross his first job.
Today, after a 20-plus year career touting brands for others, Ross has done something magical along the way: He’s become THE brand himself. His name carries weight in the culinary and interior design worlds. His fans are everywhere. For some, meeting Ross is a dream. This is one reason why Ross’ book, showcasing his knack for mixing upscale modern pieces with yard sale type finds, all on a cheap, www.vipseenmag.com | december 2018
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VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE yet always chic, has sold well. This is Ross’ brand and people are buying. Martha Stewart is among those buying. After Ross graduated the Institute, his first gig with Stewart was a prop stylist; an entry into an arena that fulfilled his dreams. After “faking it until making it” a friend advised Ross should become a production editor for big name media outlets. “I can barely spell. Can’t type. No way I can do that,” he said. “No,” his friend said. “You have to produce the content. It doesn’t mean you’re actually writing.” A light bulb went off. The next chapter of Ross’ career kicked off. He landed a gig at “House Beautiful” where he started to amass his first taste of fame. Legions of followers loved his now virtually trademarked style of expensive family heirlooms with Target-like buys. The “Modern Mix” was born.
I love interior design. It encompasses everything. If you have a passion for something, if you love a piece, you can find space for it.
KELLEY ROCK, TAMMY REED, AND MARIAH BOWMAN
JOYCE ICENHOUR AND HOUSE DRESSING MANAGER LANDY MATHES
AMY AND MARK MILLER
With a groundswell rumbling, Ross decided rather than tell people how they can mix and match, let’s show them. He took the following on the road where he launched a tour of yard sales across the nation. He’d hit the isles of flea markets and thrift stores with scores of fans hanging on his every move. Cruising the isles, pointing out chic finds and how they might compliment other décor, those in tow hung on to every word. IT was here, 10 years ago, that Ross met House Dressing owner Martha Jane. Ross, she said, was so accessible. On the ground, chatting with everyone, cracking jokes and, more importantly, offering styling tips in the moment, with items in the hands, sold Martha and everyone else on Ross’ brand. It was direct interaction and it directly contributed to his fan base. “I had been a fan for years and always had a dream that Ross would come down to (Bristol) Tennessee and decorate a room for me,” she said. “I like to take old things and mix with something you may have bought at Target. That’s what he does. That’s what resonated with me.”
JUSTIN WIMMER, HOUSE DRESSING OWNER MARTHA BOWMAN, AND MARK FARRIS
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Keeping in contact via a blog Martha pens (marthajane.net) and via social media and email, Ross became more than an inspiration. He became a friend. So when Martha offered Ross a chance to come to her consignment shop for a book signing and symposium, Ross checked his calendar. He made some moves. Scheduled a visit. Months later, here he was, beaming
VIPSEEN SPECIAL FEATURE
ALLISON LINDER WITH MARK AND CHERYL WEDEL
EDDIE ROSS AND NATALIE THACKER
a big smile, highlighting a big personality, and offering even bigger ideas, going piece by piece in her store with a microphone, picking them up and discussing how he might mix and match each in his own ongoing renovation project of a 3,000-square-foot home in Wayne, Pennsylvania, a project that’s being featured as he goes in “House Beautiful” and other outlets. “I love interior design. It encompasses everything. If you have a passion for something, if you love a piece, you can find space for it,” he said adding later, “Money doesn’t buy taste, but you can’t take your money with you either. You only live once. You should surround yourself with pieces that you love.” At House Dressing, Ross went on, jumping throughout the store, picking up various pieces, shuffling them in his hands, and with a microphone attached to his blazer, dropped depths of dine and design nuggets, as the crowd hung on his every word, following him throughout the store. “You can make it work if you look at it a different way,” Ross said. “Don’t do it like your mom did, do it like you do. Your home is a mirror to your personality. Design it like you love it.” Ross paused. “I could keep going on and on but feel like I’m probably boring you all,” he said. There he goes again; Always considerate. Always modest. “No,” the crowd said nearly in unison. They all agreed. Don’t stop. Don’t ever stop, Ross. Your unique brand and mix is just so spot on modern. For more information on House Dressing, visit House Dressing.com.
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT FOOD CITY PRESS ROOM
PAM REHART, DEBORAH ADAMS, AND CURT ROSE
CAKE FOR EVERYONE!
DAVE COFFEY
The Rotary Club of Kingsport 95th Anniversary Celebration PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Rotary Club of Kingsport is celebrating ninety-five years of community service. The club began in 1923 with a meeting held at the Kingsport Inn. To honor the history of the club, a luncheon was held during the weekly club meeting on Wednesday, November 14, 2018, at the Food City Press Room in Kingsport. President Eric Deaton opened the meeting by welcoming guests and introducing Amanda Allman to sing the national anthem. An admirable group of people were introduced as the past presidents of the Rotary Club. Paul Harris Fellow recognitions were presented to individuals who contributed or had contributions made in their name of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
PAST PRESIDENTS OF THE KINGSPORT ROTARY CLUB
Mayor John Clark recognized the achievements of the club and the difference they make in the community. Testimonies to the club’s service and impact were given by Ambre Torbett, Claudia Byrd, and Deborah Mullins. Curt Rose presented the club history and discussed many significant events from the past ninety-five years. During this past year, the club has assisted the Clothing Closet with a developing a permanent location and they also renovated and replaced two shelters at Borden Park. Closing comments by District Governor George Karnes left everyone enthused for the impact the club can make as they march toward their 100th anniversary!
ERIC DEATON AND GEORGE KARNES, DISTRICT GOVERNOR
For more information about the Kingsport Rotary Club, please visit their website at www.kingsportrotaryclub.com.
DENNIS PHILLIPS AND GEORGE (WIRT) TAYLOR
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AMBRE TORBETT, ASSISTANT GOVERNOR
PAUL HARRIS FELLOW RECIPIENTS
ERIC DEATON, CLUB PRESIDENT
RUTH MONTGOMERY
CLAUDIA BYRD AND BARBARA TRENT
MAYOR JOHN CLARK
TOM TODD
ROTARY CLUB MEMBERS
GEORGE (WIRT) TAYLOR
DEBORAH MULLINS, CLUB DIRECTOR
VIPBEAUTY
MODEL: JAECEE RAE HAIR & MAKEUP: SHERRI JESSEE PHOTO: NATHAN MAYS
Holiday Hair BY SHERRI JESSEE
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Steps
1 2 3
Section the hair from ear to ear. Wrap a few strands of pearls over the head and secure into a ponytail low and tight (you can find these at the craft store). Divide the ponytail into two and braid each section with a strand of pearls in each. Twist the side sections toward the back and secure the twisted sections with a few bobby pins. Coil the braids into a bun and pin to secure at the nape.
SEEN IN
GREENEVILLE TUSCULUM UNIVERSITY
LAURA ANDERSON, CINDY LANDERS, AND APRIL LANE
DR. & MRS. JAMES HURLEY - PRESIDENT
KARL AND ANGEL WHITE-WILSON
Tusculum University’s First
Annual President’s Gala PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On Friday, October 12th, Tusculum University hosted its First Annual President’s Gala. Following a reception on the lawn of the campus, the gala was held at the Pioneer Arena. The gymnasium was transformed into a beautiful banquet and dance hall for the evening festivities. Tusculum University is moving the needle on multiple fronts as it becomes a first-choice destination for students in the Appalachian region. To accomplish its goals and aspirations, Tusculum relies heavily on the faculty, staff, administration and Board of Trustees collaborating with the community to provide the best possible educational and social experience for students.
GARY AND JACKIE MABREY
TOM AND KAREN WILSON
This partnership was on full display at the President’s gala. Members of the Tusculum family joined philanthropists from the community to celebrate the university ’s achievements and positive direction. About 400 people filled the arena for a special evening of dinner, dancing and fellowship, all designed to showcase Tusculum as a leading university in the region. “For us to remain successful and continue to advance, a partnership between all sectors of our university and our local and national supporters will be essential,” said Dr. James Hurley, Tusculum’s president. “All of us are committed to moving Tusculum forward, and the unified atmosphere at the gala demonstrated our university’s best days remain ahead of us. We’re extremely excited and look to the future with conviction.” For more information about Tusculum University or upcoming events please visit www.tusculum.edu.
DAVID AND PATRICIA PAINTER
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ANKUR PACHAURI AND AVINEESH
LAURA ANDERSON, BRIAN BARTLETT, AND CINDY LANDERS
BEFORE DINNER RECEPTION
SEEN IN
BRISTOL STEELE CREEK PARK AND NATURE CENTER
EXHIBIT LIVE SNAPPING TURTLE
MICHELE GALJOUR SPARKS, PRESIDENT AND VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR OF FRIENDS OF STEELE CREEK
EXHIBIT
21st Annual Wildlife Weekend PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HALEY WHITE
The 21st Annual Wildlife Weekend took place the weekend of October 12 and 13 at Steele Creek Park and Nature Center in Bristol, TN. Featured guest speaker, Dr. Andy Jones spoke Friday evening. A reception and presentation was also held Friday evening by Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center and Park and The Bristol Bird Club. The evening included an awards presentation for a local amateur photography contest. Dr. Andy Jones’ presentation covered The Natural History and Naturalists of the Southern Appalachians. SONIE SCHERMER, FRIENDS VICE-PRESIDENT
ALLISON WHITE
Originally opened in 1995, the Steele Creek Park Nature Center is dedicated to park education, conservation, and research. Through commitment by the City of Bristol and widespread fundraising efforts by Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center and Park, The Nature Center is expanding and moving into a new era of natural history education and outreach. To learn more or make a contribution, visit www.friendsofsteelecreek.org
ADRIANA AND SANDI NELSON
ROBERT DAUGHTERY
MICHELE GALJOUR SPARKS, PRESIDENT AND VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR OF FRIENDS OF STEELE CREEK
JAMES ELMORE
DR. ANDY JONES, CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
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SEEN IN
JOHNSON CITY FOUNDERS PARK
EDWARD JONES
LISA HARRIS, REBECCA WHEELOCK, AMBER FARLEY, AND LULY THE DOG
BRIANNA AND STELLA KITE
Making Strides Against
Breast Cancer PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HALEY WHITE
On October 28, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Tri Cities TN/ VA hosted a celebration and walk at Founders Park in Johnson City. Activities included a Hot Wing Eating Contest sponsored by Buffalo Wild Wings, a newspaper bra making contest, a doughnut eating contest, and a bedazzled bra contest. The event included a noncompetitive three to five-mile walk, as well as an opening ceremony and post-walk entertainment. This event was a celebration of survivors and an opportunity to remember and honor loved-ones lost.
BECKY HUGHES AND DENISE KING
CHRISTINE BRADISH AND VIRGINIA WEAVER
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the American Cancer Society ’s premier event to raise awareness and funds to fight breast cancer. But it’s more than just the name of a walk – it describes the amazing progress we’re making together to defeat this disease. Since 1993, 4 million walkers have raised more than $280 million through Making Strides. In 2007 alone, nearly 500,000 walkers across the country collected more than $50 million to help fight breast cancer. To learn more visit www.MakingStridesWalk.org/tricitiestn
TERESA, JUDY (NAN), AND JENNIFER HOCKETT
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AVON NATIONAL SPONSOR AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY
MICHELLE REGAN AND MICHELLE L REGAN
SHANNON PAXTON AND ZOEY
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT DOWNTOWN KINGSPORT
VOLUNTEERS
ALLIE ADAMS ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF DKA, SUE ATTEBERRY, AND BEVERLEY PURDUE
KAILEY RIDDLE, KAELIN TONEY, AND JULIA FORRESTER
4th Annual Wine & Brew Festival PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY HALEY WHITE
The fourth annual Kingsport Wine and Brew Fest took place on October 13. Guests enjoyed a beautiful fall evening in downtown Kingsport where they sampled over 80 wines. Expanded from the original Downtown Kingsport Wine Festival; the event now features international wines as well as local craft beers. Guests could also grab some delicious eats from a variety of local food trucks and even take a tethered ride in a hot air balloon.
SLEEPY OWL BREWERY
BOBBIE MILLER AND CHRIS TERRY
“The change in location and moving the date to the fall really took the festival to the next level. We are already planning for next year and look forward to continuing to see the growth of the festival,” Downtown Kingsport Association Executive Director Melissa Sanders said. “It is so fun to see the community come together downtown. So much work went in to this festival, from volunteers to sponsors, we are thankful for every single person who helped make this event possible. Hundreds of people came out, had a great time, and raised money for the revitalization of Downtown Kingsport,” Downtown Kingsport Association Associate Director Allie Adams said. To learn more visit www.downtownkingsport.org
MARLEY PATON AND ASHLEE WALLEN
DAWN MORRISON AND LISA JARVI TRANQUILITY ON CENTER SALON AND SPA
SHARON AND DARREL DUNCAN
DOBYNS BENNETT QUARTERBACK CLUB
LINDSEY, SARA, AND EMILY
JOYCE AND JOE HILTON
BRUNO AND RACHEL GIAMPIETRO
CHAKA HERNTON AND JOYCELYN KIMBLE
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SEEN IN
ABINGDON THE VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
DENISE BLEVINS, MICHELLE TOMS, AND SANDI MAIDEN
NATALIE BLANKENSHIP
MEGAN COPENHAVER
Women in Business Conference Celebrating 25 Years PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
The Virginia Highlands Community College Small Business Development Center held the 25th Annual Women in Business Conference on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon, VA. Keynote speakers were Gena Prince and Mary Trigiani. Breakout sessions were held throughout the conference that both inspired and educated many of today’s professional women in the areas of public speaking, alternative health therapies, credit and personal wealth strategies, entrepreneurship and much more. Sponsors of the event included: PTAC, Believe in Bristol, Smyth County Chamber of Commerce, Washington County Chamber of Commerce, The Voice Magazine for Women, Walnut Hills Farm, New Peoples Bank, Southwest Higher Education Center, University of Virginia, UVA Wise and Jerry Peters Sales.
AMANDA BALDWIN-ESTEP
For more information, call Cindy Fields at 276-739-2515.
UVA AND UVA WISE REPRESENTATIVES
CINDY FIELDS
WOMEN BANKERS FROM NEW PEOPLES BANK
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VALENTINA ESCOBAR GONZALEZ
SEEN IN
KINGSPORT CATTAILS AT MEADOWVIEW
MICHAEL FARTHING AND GERRAD WOOTEN
CHRIS SANDERS AND BRADLEY HOOVER
JOHN PENDLETON AND MICHAEL CARPENTER
4th Annual Dennis Phillips Leadership
Kingsport Golf Tournament PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY ERIC DONAHUE
On Friday October 19th, Leadership Kingsport held their 4th Annual Dennis Phillips Golf Tournament. This event is named after former Kingsport Mayor Dennis Phillips. Sponsoring this event was RICOH and the breakfast sponsor was Food City. Proceeds from this event went towards the costs of Leadership Kingsport programs and the Leadership Kingsport youth program S.H.O.U.T.!®.
LANDEN OWEN AND HAGEN HENSLEY
ETHAN AND EMILY THOMPSON
Leadership Kingsport is a program of the Kingsport Chamber and provides learning and development opportunities for talented people interested in guiding the community to new heights for future generations. The mission of Leadership Kingsport is to “develop leaders who give life to community dreams.” The 10-month program Leadership Kingsport program runs from August to May each year in which 30-35 individuals are selected for each year’s class based on submitted applications and personal interviews. Leadership Kingsport also offers a youth leadership program during the summer months called S.H.O.U.T.!® (Students Helping Others Understand Tomorrow!). For more information please please contact Vanessa Bennett at your Kingsport Chamber. www.kingsportchamber.org
MIKE CHAPMAN, PHIL TERRY, MIKE EDWARDS, AND JASON CALDWELL
KEITH HICKEY AND DUSTIN COAT
AEP - APPALACHIAN POWER
MIKE HORTON AND PAYTON CLIFTON
DENNIS PHILLIPS, BILL GREENE, AND MILES BURDINE
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SEEN IN
BRISTOL FOOD CITY, EUCLID AVENUE
REP. ISRAEL O’QUINN, STEVE SMITH, AND DAN GLEI
KIM SPROLES AND SUSAN MALLICK
Starbucks Ribbon
DANNI CAMPBELL, DIANE STORY, AND ROBERT GROVES
Cutting at Food City PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CRYSTAL DAWN CARTER
It was a packed house as over 50 people gathered near the aisles of Food City on Euclid Avenue in Bristol, Virginia. Members of the Chamber of Commerce, community leaders, and others joined in to welcome the new partnership between Food City and Starbucks. The event was held on November 15 at the Euclid store where baristas were serving up their finest brew and whether it be iced, flavored, or just a plain cup ‘o joe, they were ready to serve up some great coffee. Coffee isn’t the only thing you’ll find at the Starbucks kiosk. The space may be more compact, but they offer the full array of warm food items and blended beverages. This Starbucks is one of several that are locating in area Food City stores throughout the region. Food City corporate management thinks this is a wonderful partnership, especially for those busy people on the go that can now get two great services under one roof. The new kiosk will employ about a dozen people and took just under a month to construct and become fully operational. The line for coffee started growing before the ribbon cutting could get underway, but no one minded waiting for some great and creative coffee selections and refillable mugs from their brand-new go-to coffee spot, Food City.
GREG SPARKS, ASHTON WHITE, AND DANA NECESSARY
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KEVIN MUMPOWER AND JOHN BARE
LISA JOHNSON AND JEAN BOGGS-ROWE
KATLIN CULBERTSON, AMANDA YATES, RACHAEL JACKSON, AND BABY COOPER
TYLER BAILEY AND RANDY EADS
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