Eliminate varicose veins and look forward to bathing suit season again. Visit the Wellmont CVA Heart Institute’s Vein Care Center. Varicose veins can impact more than a person’s appearance. They may also cause progressive pain, fatigue and swelling of the ankles and can lead to a number of other conditions. The Vein Care Center at the Wellmont CVA Heart Institute Johnson City location offers endovenous laser treatment. This is a state-of-the-art procedure for treating varicose veins in men and women. The non-surgical technique causes minimal discomfort and is performed in an office setting in about an hour. It is a safe, effective way to eliminate varicose veins.
Call 423-282-5054 to schedule your appointment today. 2428 Knob Creek Road, Johnson City, Tennessee.
wellmont.org /Wellmont wellmontphysicians.org wellmontphysicians.org
/Wellmont @Wellmont
Wellmont @WellmontHealth @WellmontHealth
Letter from the Publisher
FOUNDER/PUBLISHER Angela J. Baker CO-OWNER Mickey J. Baker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angelica Ares OFFICE, SALES, AND EVENTS Felicia Conners OFFICE ASSISTANT Susan Oliver SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST Jon Lester ACCOUNT MANAGERS Lark Adams 423.612.3583 Lark@vipseenmag.com April Barnes 423.646.4626 april@vipseenmag.com Susan Couch 423.483.5591 susan@vipseenmag.com Sally Dodson 423.612.3758 sally@vipseenmag.com Jacqueline Joseph 423.367.6785 Jacqueline@vipseenmag.com Carolyn Kestner 423.292.3436 Carolyn@vipseenmag.com Becky Ramsey 423.646.9490 becky@vipseenmag.com COPY EDITOR Lucy Honeychurch CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lark Adams Jennifer Ares Rebekah Bishop Liz Bushong Payton Carter Penny Goodwhistle James Helms Lucy Honeychurch Sherri Jessee Carolyn Kestner Savanna McDavid Beth Street Ginni Wright PHOTOGRAPHY Mickey J. Baker Lark Adams Liz Bushong Payton Carter Linda Coffey James Helmes Tara Hodges Jacqueline Joseph Carolyn Kestner Savanna McDavid DISTRIBUTION Ricky Adams Bobby Flowers James Helms Charles Kilgore WEBMASTER Robert Neilson Wired Web Development VIPSEEN, Inc., Tri-Cities 151 E. Main Street, Suite 5 Kingsport, TN 37660 423.398.5321 info@vipseenmag.com WWW.VIPSEENMAG.COM
4 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
She Says ...
T
his issue we turn our focus to education. Even though you will find advertisements and articles about colleges, college life and so on, please understand that educating our youth goes far beyond the classroom or any textbook. Educating the future of America begins at home. With the recent turn of events in our country and how some of the general public has responded with hate, I am left wondering…what are we teaching our children at home? To hate someone because they aren’t exactly like you or because they don’t believe in the same things you do is very close-minded and has to stop. We should be raising our children with love and teaching them to embrace each other’s differences. It doesn’t mean they have to agree with everyone all the time. Embracing differences means being able to accept and respect how another person feels and not becoming angry or violent because someone else doesn’t believe the same thing as us. The problem in America is not a gun problem it is a hate problem. Because of hate, a young and talented star was killed while she was trying to display love by hugging her murderer. Because of hate, 49 men and women were killed and 53 more injured while enjoying themselves at a popular nightclub in Orlando. Hate was even displayed after a two-year-old little boy was taken away from his parents by an alligator at Disney. People where quick to comment and blame the parents, as if the tragedy itself weren’t enough. What are we doing to teach our youth about love, compassion, and acceptance? If we are still embedding archaic prejudges due to color of skin, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or social status, in the minds of our youth, how can we ever expect to break the cycle of hate? The answer to hate is love. It is not hate. As parents, we have to begin teaching our children that very lesson at an early age so that it is enveloped in their hearts, in their minds, and into their souls. This kind of education begins at home and it is a life lesson that is continually tested, however, a solid foundation built with love will always pass hate with flying colors.
Angela J. Baker, Publisher, angela@vipseenmag.com
ON THE COVER
Mark Mitchell passing the sword to Ralph Wishon. See page 8 for story. Photo by Mickey J. Baker
Contents FEATURES 8 COVER STORY
PASSING THE SWORD – THE JAPANESE SWORD:
A SYMBOL OF THE MODERN-DAY WARRIOR
11 SPECIAL SECTION EDUCATION
24 TOOLS FOR SCHOOL 36 VIP EXCLUSIVE
ST. JUDE PATIENT PROFILES
42 VIP EXCLUSIVE BALLOON RALLY: PILOTS & BALLOONS
35-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
DEPARTMENTS 6 HAPPY
7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
48 WIT BIT: 80’S GIRL IN A 2016 WORLD 54 VIP BEAUTY:
QUICK CHANGE ARTIST
67 SERVE IT UP SASSY: BERRY DELICIOUS SUMMER! 78 SEEN ON THE SCENE
EVENTS 26 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 38 39 44 45 46 47 49 51 52
30
29th Annual Frank W. Defriece, Jr. Teacher Awards Banquet Sullivan County Department Of Education 2016 Pinnacle Awards Little Buccaneers Art Exhibit Fundraiser Kingsport Ballet Presents Ballet and Bubbly Sweet LuLu’s Boutique Grand Opening Northeast State Community College’s 1st Annual Golf Tournament Animal Defense League “Spayghetti” Dinner Second Harvest Food Bank Of Northeast Tennessee’s 23rd Annual Golf Classic Peak Derby Party Northeast State Derby ETSU National Alumni Association Award Banquet Academy of Strings Stringtacular! 2016 Fundraiser Spring Race 5K Frank Solivan’s Dirty Kitchen Experience Tri-Cities Center For Cosmetic Dentistry Open House Furry Fest 3rd Annual Run Like A Princess
64
53 Lakeview Marina Annual Grand Opening 56 Johnson City Chamber Networking Expo 58 Kingsport Chamber After Hours Workspace Interiors 59 American Heart Association Go Red For Women Luncheon 60 B.U.D.S. Prom 61 Cocktails 62 Home Sweet Home Family Promise of Bristol Dessert Fundraiser 63 KingsportARTS Spring Follies 64 Girls On The Run 5K 66 TN/VA Scholars Senior Picnic Celebration 70 CASA For Kids 25th Anniversary Celebration 70 Merle Norman Grand Opening 71 H.O.P.E. - A Night At The Derby Fundraiser 72 Big Green Egg Day at Alfresco Lifestyles 73 Murder On The Motor-Coach Hosted By Contact-Concern 74 Annual Kingsport Chamber Golf Scramble 75 Hibbert-Davis Urban Brews Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting 75 Artistic Excellence Competition 77 9th Annual Night Of Hope Benefitting JDRF 80 Senator Lamar Alexander Luncheon
Happy July Happy Birthday and Congratulations to Dancing Queen Amy Mooney
Happy Birthday Mara Owens!
Happy Birthday Dusitn Walters!
Happy Birthday Kitty Alexander!
Happy Birthday to this Big Wig. KD Bowen, we hope it is a good one!
Happy Birthday Crystal Walton!
Happy Birthday to my big brother, Kristopher! Love and Miss you!
Happy Birthday Rob Bunch!
Happy Birthday Bryan Morton!
Happy Birthday Nicole Austin!
Happy Birthday & Congratulations to Nathan Mays! He became a father in June!
Happy Birthday Kim!
Happy Birthday Shana Jones!
Happy Birthday to one of the most beautiful women on this planet! We love you Angelica!
Happy Birthday to you Rita Dykes!
Happy Birthday to my gorgeous grandmother! Love you to the moon and back!
Happy birthday to the always fashionable Toni Drumwright!
Happy Sweet 16 to my baby sister! Love you bunches!
Happy Birthday Megan! Congratulations on your new job! We love you and will miss you!
Happy Birthday to you Samantha Gray!
Happy Birthday to the lovely Jennifer Fox!
Happy Birthday to this ray of Sunshine!
Happy birthday to jammin’ DJ and Jack of all trades Alan Dodson!
Happy Birthday Steven Reeves!
Happy Birthday Melanie Peters!
Happy Birthday to this very special man! We love you Bobby! Happy Birthday Dana!
6 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
Happy Birthday Jami!
Calendar of Events / JULY 2016 JULY 1 Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm Blues Extravaganza featuring: Bluesman & The Blues Essentials With special guests: Samantha Gray, Billy Crawford, Jake Quillen & Lightnin Charlie Twilightalive.com JULY 2 Abingdon’s New Independence Day Extravaganza 4pm Farmers Market Pavilion Downtown Abingdon 276-676-2282 alivingston@abingdon-va.gov JULY 4 31st Annual Pepsi Independence Day Celebration Beginning at 4pm Freedom Hall Civic Center Johnson City, TN pepsi-fireworks.com Elizabethton Independence Day Celebration 8:30pm – 10pm Star-Spangled 4th of July Celebration Celebrate Bristol & Border Bash Independence Day Parade on State Street 5pm (Parade line-up begins on Morrison Boulevard at 3pm.) Firewroks @ Cumberland Square Park 10pm Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm Folk Soul Revival / JB 5nDime Twilightalive.com Kingsport Fireworks 9:45pm JULY 7 Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm Karl Shiflett & The Big Country Show Twilightalive.com JULY 8 Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm Catfish Frye Band / Hundred Acres Twilightalive.com JULY 9 Fun Fest Block Party 2pm – 4pm
Indian Path Health Resources Center Kingsport Town Center Fort Henry Drive Kingsport, TN 423-857-7981 McKinneyLJ@msha.com
JULY 16 Busker Festival 12pm – 5pm Downtown Kingsport – along Broad Street & Market Street info@downtownkingsport.org
JULY 9 A Handmade Summer Market 10am – 4pm The Bramble 206 Gay Street Erwin, TN http://allevents.in/erwin#
Crossfit Manic presents…Bowen V 10am – 3pm 117 Wexler Street Kingsport, TN 423-335-3558 Bowenworkout.com/crossfit-manic
JULY 11 Legislative BBQ! 5:30pm Note: RSVP by July 7th Kingsport Farmers Market Clinchfield Street Kingsport, TN 423-392-8827 lpowers@kingsportchamber.org JULY 13 Get Your Grill On!! Taste of Appalachia Extravaganza Free Tasting Event 2pm – 6pm Boone Street Market 101 Boone Street Jonesborough, TN http://rootedinappalachia.com/tasteappalachia/ JULY 14 Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm The Boxcars Twilightalive.com JULY 15 Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm C.J. Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band Twilightalive.com JULY 15 FUN FEST 2016 Kick-Off Celebration & Parade Band 8pm Downtown Kingsport, TN July 15-23 Fun Fest 2016 Tickets on Sale Now: Fun Fest Store 400 Clinchfield St., Ste. 100. Kingsport, TN 423-392-8836 www.funfest.net
Crazy 8’s Road Race 6pm J Fred Johnson Stadium Kingsport, TN 423-963-1045 http://werunevents.com/crazy-8s/ JULY 19 Oldsmobile Car Collectors 3pm – 4pm Meadowview Convention Center 1901 Meadowview Pkwy Kingsport, TN 423-578-6600 JULY 21 Fun Fest Sunset Concert: Newsboys with David Crowder Band Fun Fest Store 400 Clinchfield St., Ste. 100. Kingsport, TN 423-392-8836 www.funfest.net
JULY 22 Fun Fest Sunset Concert: The Charlie Daniels Band with Mountain Faith Fun Fest Store 400 Clinchfield St., Ste. 100. Kingsport, TN 423-392-8836 www.funfest.net JULY 23 Fun Fest Sunset Concert: The Fray with American Authors Fun Fest Store 400 Clinchfield St., Ste. 100. Kingsport, TN 423-392-8836 www.funfest.net JULY 28 Downtown Kingsport Concert: 7pm Larry Sparks & Lonesome Ramblers Twilightalive.com JULY 30 50th Anniversary & Welcome Home Celebration For Our Vietnam Veterans 9am – 12pm Mountain Home VA Healthcare System Building 34 – Museum at Mountain Home Johnson City, TN 423-926-1171 ext. 2450 tammy.jenkins2@va.gov JULY 30 Farm To Fork Gala 6:30pm – 8:30pm Meadowview Marriott Kingsport, TN 423-578-6600
JULY @ BARTER THEATRE CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, JUN 28 – JUL 16 (BARTER STAGE II) BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!!! Roald Dahl’s timeless story of the world-famous candy man, Willy Wonka, and his wonderful world of chocolate comes to life this summer. When Charlie discovers a coveted Golden Ticket in his Wonka Chocolate Bar, he and four other lucky winners take a fantastic tour of Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory where they discover a world of pure imagination. Get your Golden Tickets today!
OTHER SHOWINGS FOR THE MONTH OF JULY: PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB, GREATER TUNA, ROBIN HOOD, CRY WOLF! Visit www.batertheatre.com or call 423-628-3991 for show times and to purchase tickets.
JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 7
VIP COVER PROFILE
Passing the
Sword THE JAPANESE SWORD:
A Symbol of the Modern-Day Warrior
Mark Mitchell passing the sword to Ralph Wishon. he finest definition I’ve read for the word ‘warrior’ is “one who conquers oneself.” In other words, a warrior is a master at handling life’s problems and overcoming any obstacle. Warriors don’t let fear, in whatever shape or form, stop them. A warrior is completely unstoppable. They have an overwhelming commitment to their own personal growth and, more importantly, a commitment to adding value to society. This is a powerful mindset towards a higher sense of self that leads to a greater strength of character, attitude, and a more prosperous world around us. Passing the sword one to another signifies the relinquishing of authority and symbolizes the transitions from one leader to the next. No matter what your profession – a Samurai sword is a symbol of the modernday warrior and his or her commitment to a life filled with courage, purpose, and adding value. And that is exactly what Ralph Wishon, Jr. and Mark Mitchell are – warriors for Toyota of Bristol. Mark has long been an innovator in industry, having made the practice of house call medicine relevant again throughout the United States. In 2014 Mark sold his controlling interest in his health care business to a Fortune 250 company. With substantial capital available, Mark set out to create a family office investment firm that focused on the many interests of his children. One of those focused interests includes a passion for motor vehicles. To that end, Mark created M Automotive Group which owns and operates automobile dealerships in the Southeast. Further, Mark and his children identify and partner with innovative entrepreneurs seeking leadership and capital infusion to maximize their potential. Mark spends his free time with his wife, four children and three spoiled dogs at their homes in Florida and Michigan. A native of Sullivan County, Ralph continued his business management education at ETSU while working for his father at Lady & King Farm Equipment. He was driven to make his own way and has spent the last 10 years working in every single department at Toyota of Bristol. He began his journey up the ladder with automotive sales, learning finance and service; then became Team Manager, Sales Manager and ultimately 8 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
the General Manger & Owner. Ralph has devoted his entire automotive career to Toyota of Bristol. In the past 18 months, with Ralph at the helm, Toyota of Bristol has consistently been #1 in the district with CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index) scores always at #1. During his first year as GM, Toyota of Bristol was given the highest accolade a Toyota dealership can obtain – The President’s Award 2015. Month after month, the sales team has had over 200+ combined sales of new and used vehicles at this location. Customer retention is 96% at Toyota of Bristol. Ralph and his wife, Jill, have two sons Nicholas, 17 and Nolan, 14. Nick attends Tennessee High School where he is a Varsity Baseball and Football player. He was named to the Big 7 All Conference Baseball team this season. Nolan attends Vance Middle School where he plays football, baseball and basketball. Nolan won back to back Lineman of the Year Awards for 7th & 8th grade at Vance Middle School. He will be attending THS in the fall. Jill was awarded the VH1 Save the Music Foundation Grant in 2015; 1 of only 10 grants that are awarded nationwide. She is currently teaching at Sullins Academy. Their family attends Chinquapin Grove Baptist Church in Bluff City. Ralph, his family and the dealership are very community minded. They participate in many charitable organizations and have sponsored the Angel Tree at Vance Middle School, partnered with THS and Vance in a Driving for Education program, sponsored WinShape Camps and are committed to teaching their children that hard work, perseverance and a heart for service are the foundation to a productive citizen. Why ‘Shrek’? Several years ago, several of Ralph’s fellow salespeople were commenting that he could market anything. So they gave him a challenge and a $500 bet. Market yourself as Shrek – you know the guy from the movie. He had 90 days to take it to the public. He did it in 30 days, won the $500 and it has permanently labeled him. He has turned ‘Shrek’ into a marketing phenomenon. Once upon a time, in a not so far away dealership, arose a larger than life character named Shrek.
BEHIND THE DOWN-HOME DEAL
Parts Sales Team Ralph Wishon & Mark Mitchell signing dealership owner documents
Office Staff: Ashlee Barker, Angela Barker, Julie Pfeffer, Suzanne Neale, and Lisa Pierce; Office Manager (not pictured) Service Professionals
Dan Murphy, Manager, Joe Clark, Rochelle Warriner, and Eric Tilley – Detail Management Team: Front Row – Joshua Jones, Finance Manager; Amanda Lane, Finance Clerk; Andy Lipto, General Sales Manager; Makinsey Ritter, New Car Inventory Manager; Teddy McQueen, Internet Sales Manager. Back Row – Patrick Yeary, Sales Manager; Glenda Plastor, Finance Manager; Scotty Branson, New Car Floor Manager; Randy Rhea, Use Car Floor Manager Sales Professionals JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 9
How they see your mortgage.
How we see your mortgage.
Buying a house is a big deal. There are lots of numbers and papers to go through. But we never lose sight of the fact that it’s your home. It’s personal. For you and for us. You’re never just a number at TriSummit Bank. NMLS #653570
3299_TSB_Mortgage Print Ad_9.25x11.125_VIPMagazine_PRINT.indd 1
trisummitbank.com
4/8/16 2:20 PM
4/8/16 2:20 PM
SPECIAL SECTION
E
ducation is the theme of this month’s issue, but education is much more than simply filling out applications and heading off to college. Education is learning and learning doesn’t always take place in a classroom. There is on the job training, GED programs, adult learning, continuing education, and technical degrees. Each of these paths in education is different than what many of us consider “traditional” but they are no less important. Many employers encourage, some even expect, education to be something that its employees seek despite being gainfully employed. We must never stop learning because when we do then we stop understanding the world around us. Giving up on education can lead to stagnation, both in the workplace and in life. There are many different routes that one can take in the education arena and the great thing is that none of these routes is anything to be ashamed of. Getting your GED? Fantastic! Heading from high school to a community college? Phenomenal! Going to graduate school? Stupendous! Furthering your education in an ever-changing world? Necessary! Keep up the good work and keep learning in any arena that allows you to move forward and improve. Good luck!
12 Mount Rogers Regional Adult Education: Helping You Reach Your Dreams 14 Memorable College Experiences 16 Tusculum College: Focused & Flexible 18 The Gap Year: Temporary Trend or New Normal? 20 Virginia Highlands Community College: A New Career in Just One Year (or Less) 22 Tips for Living with a New College Roommate 23 Managing Stress in College 24 Tools for Schools JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 11
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE AND YOUR FUTURE.
WE CAN HELP!
Everybody deserves a second chance! Graduates prove their academic skills and knowledge in the basic subject areas of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
If you or someone you know…
• Did not complete high school • Needs to improve reading skills • Needs help preparing for the GED® • Needs help preparing for the CRC • Wants help with basic or job skills • Wants to attend FREE and exciting classes that meet INDIVIDUAL needs • Wants to learn to speak English
CALL NOW! We offer free classes. 12 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
HELPING YOU REACH YOUR DREAMS! Mount Rogers Regional Adult Education Program (MRRAEP) has served adult learners in the region for more than 25 years, offering GED® and English as a Second Language classes in 27 locations throughout six counties and the cities of Bristol and Galax. One such class is Heath’s GED Center on Euclid Ave in Bristol. Lorraine Heath, experienced teacher and adult education advocate, has converted the former house into classroom space and donates its use to MRRAEP. Among Lorraine’s former students are three brothers who all earned their GEDs in her class. Scott Zagorski was motivated to go back to school because his children challenged him to complete his education. Greg Zagorski wanted to further his education to feel better about himself. Both earned their GEDs in 2013, and Scott entered the welding program at the Washington County Skills Center through a partnership with MRRAEP. In 2015, they encouraged their brother Daniel to earn his GED, too. Daniel had dropped out of high school to care for his dying grandmother, who asked him to promise that he would return to finish school. When he began to attend GED classes, he began to feel empowered. Lorraine inspired him to stay with the program, and he earned his GED on May 18, 2015.
“I guess the lesson behind the story is that you can be your own worst enemy when it comes to bettering your life,” Scott says. “You’ll find excuses why you are not good enough or strong enough, or you’ll be afraid of failure. You have to find it within yourself to reach your goal. If we three brothers can do it after 21+ years, you can do it also.” The Zagorski brothers have continued their education and occupational training. Scott completed an advanced welding certification at VHCC, while Daniel got his welding certification from the Washington County Skills Center, and now works for Dart Transit. Greg finishes his Diesel Mechanic certification from VHCC this summer. Program Manager Shirley Carlson says, “The GED is the foundation of adult education, but our program is the best free resource to help you achieve your professional and personal goals. Many don’t realize what other services we can provide them. We can help you brush up on skills to pass college placement tests, provide career coaching and help you develop an exceptional resume, and help you earn the Career Readiness Certificate to stand out in the workforce. Come explore what Mount Rogers can do for you!”
The Mount Rogers Regional Adult Education Program has been in existence for more than 25 years. The program serves the Virginia counties of Washington, Bland, Carroll, Grayson, Smyth and Wythe and the cities of Bristol and Galax. We provide leadership and support for adult education and literacy services with emphasis on the development and expansion of quality, family literacy and workplace education programs.
P.O. Box 1987 One Partnership Circle Abingdon, VA Our Regional Office is located in the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, near Virginia Highlands Community College and the Washington County municipal offices.
CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION
1-800-322-7748 or 276-619-4396 www.mrraep.com JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 13
Memorable College Experiences STORIES COMPILED BY LARK ADAMS
Matthew Eades – MBA, Virginia Tech, Class of 2007 My most memorable moment in college came immediately following my worst experience in college. It was the morning of April 16, 2007. I was attending my final semester at Virginia Tech. While studying for an exam we had the next day, my roommate and I began receiving phone calls from our family about a horrible incident on campus. As we learned more about the magnitude of what was transpiring, there was an instant feeling of sickness. As we learned more about the shootings, we began trying to contact our friends and family that were on campus that day. Many with no luck, as the phone systems were overwhelmed and could not complete calls. It wouldn’t be until that night that we could confirm that everyone we personally knew was safe. All of it seemed like a nightmare. I kept thinking, this is Blacksburg, VA. A quiet town known for its beautiful landscapes, architecture and football. How could any of this be real? In the days that followed though, I saw why I love this school so much. It wasn’t the architecture. It wasn’t the beautiful campus or even Hokie football. It was what I witnessed. Complete strangers helping and praying for each other. People walking around with signs that read, “Free Hugs”. The landmark drill field of Virginia Tech, lit up by thousands of candles as an entire school and community united to remember those lost. While there was so much attention to the horrible acts that had occurred on that day in April many of us witnessed what happened next. A united campus and community. If you have never seen or witnessed Hokie Nation, I can promise you that it exists and that I am proud to be a part of it! Kim Davis – University of Tennessee/ Knoxville, Class of 2002 Growing up in Bluff City, Tennessee I always knew I would attend the University of Tennessee. It was the only school I applied to, and in the fall of 1998 I started my incredible journey at UT. My most memorable moment came from the first football game of the season. I had grown up going to UT football games, but nothing prepared me for my first college game, much less the game of century. Sitting in the student section when the Vols defeated the University of Florida in overtime was crazy, and when almost all of my fellow students rushed the field, tore down the goal posts, and carried down them down Cumberland Ave (better known as The Strip) and across Presidential Courtyard where my dorm was located, the experience was unbelievable. I always knew my blood ran orange, but after that night my pride for UT was undeniable. I went on to experience many more incredible memories in college and I am so honored to call UTK my alma mater!
Carl Moore – University of Alabama, Class of 1952 My best college memory actually came many years after my graduation, and it was the first time I went back to the University of Alabama campus with my lovely wife Elliott - who also graduated from the University of Alabama.
Experience more…
success Angelica Ares – Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Class of 1998 I played softball for the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and we always went into games with our opponent thinking we would be an easy win since we were an art school. Being underdogs let us shine, and in 1998 we went to Orange County, California, for a national tournament. I hit 9 home runs over the fence that week and was named to the all-tournament team. Gary Mabrey – East TN State University, BS - Class of 1973 and Masters Class of 1974 In the summer of 1971, after having served nearly five years in non-combatant duty stations during the Vietnam War, I returned to Johnson City to pick up where I left off. I was a bit behind my original class of 1965, but I got right to work at Leon Fernbach and at ETSU. The GI Bill only lasted 36 months so college was my job, especially since I was married with a baby on the way. I roared through my undergraduate degree and finished in 1973, then went on to graduate school, and I haven’t stopped since. Mackynzie Archer – East TN State University, Class of 2015 One of the greatest experiences in my college career was my first class in Anthropology. The professor, Dr. King was an amazing woman whose passion inspired me to pick up Anthropology as my second major. The lessons I learned in her class are still used and valued in my life today. She encouraged me to try harder with every class I took with her, and she pulled me out of my comfort zone when she sent me to an Anthropology conference where I was only one of five undergrads speaking at a conference filled with doctoral speakers. Every class with her I learned something new that would help me with pursuing my dreams and career goals. She then pushed me even further to pursue a doctorate in Cultural Anthropology at the University of Tennessee, where I will be attending this fall. None of this would be possible without her believing in me, and now I have the confidence to pursue a PhD before I’m 30.
culture growth campus life
College of Arts & Sciences College of Business & Technology College of Clinical and Rehabilitative Health Sciences
friendship athletics diversity recognition leadership
Claudius G. Clemmer College of Education
tradition
Honors College
learning
Quillen College of Medicine
community
opportunities
College of Nursing
technology
Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy
adventure
College of Public Health School of Continuing Studies & Academic Outreach School of Graduate Studies
scholarships creativity involvement health sciences research
www.etsu.edu | 1-800-GO2-ETSU GO2ETSU@etsu.edu 1276 Gilbreath Drive, Johnson City, TN 37614
With Tusculum’s now more focused and flexible block calendar, you are able to tailor your class schedule to meet your individual lifestyle and goals. Traditional students, who are academically motivated, have an opportunity to graduate in as few as three years - a Degree in Three! Adult learners in our accelerated Graduate and Professional Studies programs can choose between a short or long track option and achieve your dream of a degree at a pace that best fits your needs.
By the Numbers
17:1 student-faculty ratio 75% of recently surveyed alumni reported
99% of our Traditional
undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid
obtaining a position in their field of
study within
9 months of graduation
95% of recently surveyed alumni say Tusculum prepared them well for their current job or graduate studies
16 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
VIP SEEN magazine layout.indd 2-3
More than
60 majors, minors and
pre-professional programs
65%
of full-time faculty hold a More than doctorate or terminal degree in their field
d
FOCUSED
& FLEXIBLE Ronald H. and Verna June Meen Center for Science and Mathematics Currently under construction and scheduled to be completed in early 2017
JOIN US
Fall 2016 Open House
Tusculum College Baseball 2016 South Atlantic Conference Baseball Tournament Co-Champions
September 24 November 12
Schedule
a campus visit 423-636-7312 90%
More than of our new students come to us because someone they know recommended the program.
18 Athletic NCAA Division II teams 1,809 representing 34 states and 15 countries
Total enrollment of
80% of our Graduate and Professional Studies students receive some form of financial aid
1st in region to offer accredited adult oriented programs
For more information visit www.tusculum.edu JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 17
5/23/16 3:35 PM
The Gap Year: R
STORY BY PENNY GOODWHISTLE
Temporary Trend or New Normal?
ecently Malia Obama decided that she would take a gap year before starting her freshman year of college at Harvard. Many in America were shocked because taking a gap year is something usually thought of as a very British thing to do. While it is true that many American students move straight to college from high school, the prevalence of gap years is growing in the US. Taking a year off before starting college can be beneficial for both the school and the student. A gap year isn’t for everyone, but for those who are responsible enough to make it work, a gap year can be a rewarding life event and a great resume builder. There are many reasons to take a gap year for college students who have just graduated high school. While many students might be tempted to just take a year off and “rest” it is recommended that students plan ahead and have a specific goal in mind for the gap year. “Taking a year off to sit around and sleep all the time is ill-advised,” says Barbara Monroe of Rice University, “it is imperative for students to find a positive activity to partake in; preferably something enriching.” The National Association for College Admission Counseling recommends students do something such as volunteer, travel, complete an internship, find employment or complete a post graduate year of study to boost grades. The American Gap Association also recommends doing such positive activities in the year between high school and college. The mission statement of the AGA is, “Advocating for increased participation in Gap Year education through the meaningful accreditation of safe and quality organizations, the proliferation of Gap Year Scholarships, and the continued research of Gap Year student outcomes.” The organization works hard to place
students in programs that will enrich their lives and the lives of others and says in its mission statement that, “the creation of such an association came from a lack of clarity around what a Gap Year is and to whom they are best suited.” Organizations such as AGA, and others, work hard to place students in programs that will help them have meaningful gap year experiences. Many colleges and universities encourage gap year programs, but only a select few will help financially with a gap year program so before you take your leave make sure to see if the university you have applied to will view a gap year positively or help with costs. AmeriCorps helps place 75,000 Americans each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country and is a great resource for finding a gap year placement. AmeriCorps Volunteers can work in disaster relief, tutoring, historical preservation, assist low-income communities, work with veterans, and serve in critical areas such as education, 18 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
economic relief, public safety, and environmental clean up. Students can do more than help at home, however, since there are numerous programs that will allow gap year students to go abroad to help in communities all throughout the world. Don’t want to spend your gap year volunteering in impoverished communities or working for the US government? There are other options available as well. While a gap year has been common practice in other nations for years, especially Great Britain, it is something relatively new to the US but this does not mean that there are not plenty of resources. Many organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can help students to find meaningful placement. Religious organizations and churches can help gap year students plan for mission trips either inside or outside the United States. Students can study abroad for a year as well as an exchange student in return for room and board and plenty of international exposure. There are a few things to remember before deciding to take a gap year though and these obstacles can prevent many from deciding on this option. Gap years take planning, not all schools are supportive of gap years, gap year programs can be expensive, and a gap year might not be the right move for everyone. Plan
ahead for your gap year and thoroughly research the gap year organizations that can help you find a program. Work in a program or placement that coincides with your overall view of the world and will help to enhance your life. Find a program that is regimented so you can get used to the daily schedule that is required of post college work life. Have fun and find a placement that will help you to grow as a person, experience something different in life, meet new people, see new things, and experience different cultures. Something that might have originally been viewed as a passing fad seems to becoming more and more entrenched in American life and many see this as a great thing. It has been shown that gap year students who take on meaningful work in their year “off ” actually enter college more prepared for the rigors of university life, are easily adaptable to the changes that come with college life, and perform better academically than do those who do not take a gap year. Remember, however, that this is just an average and that a gap year is not for everyone. Don’t take this path if you feel that it is not right for you or if you are worried about falling behind or getting too comfortable and giving up on school. Gaining a meaningful education is the end goal and if taking a gap year will not assist in that, then going straight into university studies is not a bad thing. Careful planning and asking a lot of questions will help anyone who is considering a gap year to understand his/her options in order to understand if a gap year really is the right move.
What can you do with our degree?
ANYTHING you want.
cn.edu
• • • • • • • • •
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Dedicated to student success. Committed to excellence.
JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 21
A Partnership of Top-Ranked Universities with a Space for You.
Abingdon, Virginia • www.swcenter.edu • 276-619-4300
Tips for Living with a New College Roommate STORY BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH
I
t’s finally here. You have graduated college and you are required to be on campus-in a dorm. Wait…what!? You have to live with a stranger? Yep! It’s part of the college experience and one that many universities require these days. No more slinking back home in the afternoons and hiding away from the college life-you are thrown right in. This, despite what our introverted selves may tell us, is a good thing however and meeting new people is–say it with me–a good thing. Now that you’ve moved into your dorm, put all your stuff in its place, hung pictures of home, and decorated your little corner of the room you have to learn to get along with someone who is not friend or foe or family: a stranger. Here are some tips that might help. • RESPECT-don’t borrow, use, or take anything without asking your roommate first. Doing something as small as taking a pen without permission might be a big deal for someone else. Ask first if its ok and life with this new person will be easier to live from the beginning. • BE OPEN TO NEW THINGS-ask your roommate where he or she is from. Show a genuine interest in learning about them and their culture. Learning about them helps you to grow as a person and gives them a level of comfort that means the teeny tiny room you are sharing will be free of tension.
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• BE FLEXIBLE-things will change, including you and your roommate, during your first semester at college. Be open to changing rules, ideas, and understanding that change can be both bad and good, but it is going to happen whether you want it to or not. • FOLLOW THE GOLDEN RULE-Treat your roommate like you would want to be treated. For goodness sake be nice. A little niceness goes a long way to welcoming others and showing that you are someone who can be reasonably dealt with and fully trusted. You and your roommate might never become best friends, but you have to be friends at least for a school year so work to make those months as good as possible.
Managing Stress in College STORY BY LUCY HONEYCHURCH
S
tress. It is a daily part of our lives, but stress can come at times in our life when we are more vulnerable than normal. Life changes can add to the everyday stress of normal activities like going to work or school and make it harder to function. Going off to college is a huge life change that can bring with it a lot of changes, challenges, and stress. Studies indicate that students who have trouble handling the stresses of college tend to do worse in school, skip class more, have difficulty concentrating, and can become withdrawn from friends. If you, or someone you know, is having trouble adjusting to college life and the rigors it requires then there are several ways to manage stress. • Get plenty of exercise and regular sleep: Exercise has been shown to increase endorphins and to help the body create its own natural “feel good” mood and even a short walk is enough to help clear your head. Exercise also burns off the extra energy created by stress. Regular and restful sleep is important too. Not getting enough sleep means putting your body at a disadvantage to start the day. Make sure to talk with your roommate about proper sleep habits and to set boundaries for coming and going so that you can rest uninterrupted. • Avoid artificial, and too many, stimulants: caffeine can be good, but too much of it can make your heart race, stimulate your negative thinking, and get you too riled up to sleep, study, or concentrate in class. Take it easy on the sugary and caffeinated drinks and stick to plenty of water. Try drinking a sleepy time tea before bed to help you rest.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Plenty of colleges and universities offer yoga classes for free. If something like yoga is not your thing, then relax in ways that work best for you. Take a brisk walk, shoot some hoops, relax in the gymnasium pool, listen to some soft music in a dark dorm room, or take a long hot shower. Find what works for you and stick with it. • Find help: If things become too overwhelming for you then get help immediately. Counseling offices are on every campus and they offer help for free. Find a support group, an individual counselor, or call a help line but don’t let your stress get the best of you and drag you down. Asking someone else to help with your stress is not a sign of weakness. Counselors can help you to manage your stress and to tackle your problems in a proactive way that will bolster your ability to cope with life’s everyday rigors.
What’s Your problem? What’s your PASSION? At Emory & Henry you build skills for solving real-world problems. Integrate hands-on work with classroom knowledge. Create results through project-based learning.
Turn your passion into action. So, What’s your problem?
Learning. connecting. doing. where you begin.
www.ehc.edu
I-81, Exit 26, emory, va
I
magine showing up for work and not having the basic tools needed to do your job. Now imagine that happening everyday. Again this year we have too many children going back to school without the most basic tools to do their jobs. The good thing is you can help make these children’s quest to learn a little better. Tools For Schools was created after learning that there are hundreds of homeless and disenfranchised children attending Kingsport area schools. So a few folks decided to make a difference and bought school supplies and even just donating money so we could buy needed supplies. That was four years ago, thousands of pencils, crayons, books, and other essential school tools and this year we want to make a bigger positive impact, and with your help we can make a difference in our community. Any donation of school supplies or money is fantastic, but any donation of $25 or more will receive a limited edition print from local artist Mark Ray. (These normally sell for $25 to $45). The person/ company with the largest donation over $75 will receive a painting from Mark (a $225 to $400 value). 100% OR YOUR DONATION, EVERY PENNY DONATED, EVERY PENCIL, PEN OR CRAYON GOES DIRECTLY TO THE CHILDREN. A high priority are marble cover Composition Books; both Wide Rule and Classic Primary types, 24 count Colored Pencils, Boxes of #2 Pencils and Glue Sticks. Also needed are Pens, Paper, Binders, Rulers, Scissors, Crayons, Gift Cards to Office Supply/ Craft Stores, and of course Money (which we will use to buy needed supplies). Call Kingsport City School Office or go to tinyurl.com/ kptschoolsupplies for full list.
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oing g n e r d il h c y n a m We have too most e h t t u o h it w l o o back to sch ch as u s s e li p p u s l o o basic sch ns, o y a r c , e lu g , s il c pens, papers, pen and s k c a n s , s k c a p k notebooks, bac . even lunch money Donations accepted from July 1st through July 31st.For more information or to donate online please visit:
toolsforschoolskpt.com Partial list of drop off locations:
VIPSEEN Magazine 151 East Main Street, Suite 5, Kingsport, TN 37660 (423) 398-5321 Cindy Saadeh Gallery 128 E Market St, Kingsport, TN 37660 (423) 245-2800 Sweet & Savory Creations 316 Cumberland St, Kingsport, TN 37660 (423) 963-5922
Visit web site for more locations. Or call Mark at: 423-963-5922 and we can arrange a pick up at your front door.
JULY 2016 | VIPSEEN | 25
SEEN IN BRISTOL
ROTARY CLUB OF BRISTOL VA-TN
29th Annual
Teacher Awards PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
The Rotary Club of Bristol VA-TN honored Bristol’s most outstanding teachers on Tuesday, April 12 during the 29th Annual Frank W. DeFriece, Jr. Teacher Awards Banquet held at the Bristol Train Station. Teachers were nominated from the Bristol, TN and Bristol, VA public school systems with one teacher from each system being selected as the 2016 Rotary Outstanding Teacher. Each school submitted a nomination packet that was then scored by an anonymous panel of six judges composed of public educators and public service and business representatives from outside the Bristol area.
Jon Harden and Sid Oakley
Megan Mason (Bristol, TN Teacher of the Year) and Jessica Buchanan (Bristol, VA Teacher of the Year)
Megan Mason from Fairmount Elementary School (Bristol, TN) and Jessica Buchanan from Virginia Middle School (Bristol, VA) were this year’s winners. These outstanding teachers each earned a $2,500 cash award, a $500 donation for needed equipment to each teacher’s respective school, and a circulating plaque that will be on display at each school.
Joel Moseley and Matt Blackwell
Mason, who was nominated by Dr. Kyle Evans, Principal at Fairmount, teaches first grade. Her nominators described her as a leader, a team player, strong, intelligent and dedicated. One nominator commented on how Megan goes out of her way to find resources to help every child in her classroom, even noting how she brushed up on her Spanish skills to help one student that spoke little English. Christina and Greg Lawson
A fellow teacher noted, “Megan cares about the physical needs of her students, even keeping a supply of extra clothes in her classroom. She knows that you cannot reach a student’s head or heart until their physical needs are met.” Jessica Buchanan, the Bristol, VA winner, serves as the librarian at Virginia Middle School. A fellow teacher and nominator, Leigh Stewart, described Jessica as a caring student advocate, creative and resourceful classroom teacher, supportive colleague, and community and parent liaison. A nominator explained, “Jessica realizes the limited financial resources of many of her students and seeks to broaden their worlds through her library classes even coordinating Skype visits with authors.”
Rev. Joe Dunagan
Teachers also earning nominations in Tennessee included Christina Moody-Lawson, Avoca Elementary School; Brandy Shelton, Haynesfield Elementary School; Rachel Boggs, Holston View Elementary School; Annie Edwards, Vance Middle School; and Miller Foutch, Tennessee High School. In Virginia, those nominated were Barbara Gammon, Highland View Elementary School; Samantha Pustina, Joseph B. Van Pelt Elementary School; Wendy Edwards, Stonewall Jackson Elementary School; Virginia Leonard, Virginia High School; and Debbie Musser, Washington-Lee Elementary School. Each nominee received a $250 cash award. Signature sponsors for the Rotary Outstanding Teacher Awards include Bank of Tennessee, Bill Gatton Automotive Group, Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol Regional Medical Center, Bristol Tennessee Essential Services, Crabtree Buick GMC, Burwil Construction Company, Bristol Compressors, HVAC, Inc., Johnson Commercial Development, King University, Massengill-DeFriece Foundation, and Strongwell.
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All the teacher honorees
Katy Sikorski (our October 2015 VIPSEEN cover model and story)
Truly Remarkable. A remarkable smile begins with remarkable skill and expertise. As the Tri-Cities' only accredited cosmetic dentist with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Sanders designs beautiful functional smiles. Her dedicated focus on continuing education places her in an elite group of cosmetic dentists -only 386 accredited members, worldwide, in history. Cosmetic and General Dentistry Complimentary Cosmetic Consultation Invisalign & Zoom! Whitening
Annie Dr. Kathy Sanders is East Tenneessee’s only accredited AACD Member.
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Patient of Dr. Sanders.
423-239-7899
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
SULLIVAN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Sullivan County Department of Education
2016 Pinnacle Awards PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The 3rd Annual Pinnacle Awards Ceremony was held on May 2nd at The Sullivan County Department of Education Board Room. Award winners were nominated because of their exceptional investment in the students of Sullivan County and the future of the school system. Director of Schools, Evelyn Rafalowski, presented each winner with a plaque and showed a video presentation made by the person(s) who nominated the individual for the award. The awards were provided by the Graphic Design Department at Central High School and the Pinnacle emblem was created the Graphic Design program at South High School. After the awards ceremony, recipients and guests were treated to a beautiful reception, catered by the Culinary Arts Department of South High School.
Mike Pencharinha (award winner) and Evelyn Rafalowski
Jim Lyon accepts award in memory of his sister, Kim Lyon
Congratulations to all award winners for providing exemplary service for students, families, and employees of the Sullivan County Department of Education.
Alesia Dinsmore, Beth Hare (award winner), and Evelyn Rafalowski
Robinette family showing support for their “award winning� Mom, Kristie!
Pinnacle Award Recipients
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Angie Maker, Lisa Clare (Award winner), and Evelyn Rafalowski
Amy Grizzel, Kim Greene (Award winner), and Evelyn Rafalowski
REECE MUSEUM AT EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
Little Buccaneers
Art Exhibit Fundraiser STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAYTON CARTER
Share Lange and daughter Madalyn Vanzant
East Tennessee State University’s Little Bucs Early Childhood Laboratory Program for children ages 3 months through 5 years held its fourth annual Little Buccaneers Art Exhibit Fundraiser, titled “Through the Eyes of Children” on April 20 at the university’s Reece Museum. Parents and friends had the opportunity to place bids on the children’s art work exhibited throughout the museum. The program teachers’ goals are to observe children and support them as they make new discoveries that extend and expand their learning. As one of the program’s primary aims, Little Bucs creates and maintains a place for children to express their thoughts and creativity. Thank you, Little Bucs, for what you are doing for the next generation.
Mickey Morton, Nikki Dolan, and Susan Taylor St. Lawrence
SEEN IN BLOUNTVILLE
THE CHATEAU SELAH
Kingsport Ballet Presents
Ballet & Bubbly PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
The Kingsport Ballet hosted “Ballet and Bubbly” on May 7th at the beautiful Chateau Selah. This event was to raise funds for Kingsport Ballet’s outreach programs, which provides free instruction to at-risk youth in the community. Guests were greeted with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. There were several items available for bids during the silent auction as guests mingled, sipping “bubby” and listening to music by Curtis Cooper and Jazz 251 - Featuring Neil Burcham and Andy Baker. Students of the Kingsport Ballet circulated through the crowd with trays of delicious appetizers.The Modern Company of Kingsport Ballet presented “Pandora’s Box” for the guests. The dance was choreographed by Erika Ballard. Guests enjoyed exploring the Chateau Selah and the beautiful views while enjoying a delicious dinner. Kingsport Ballet is funded in part by general operating support from the Tennessee Arts Commission.
Kingsport Ballet performs Pandora’s Box, “Hope”
For more information on the Kingsport Ballet, visit their website: www.kingsportballet.org
Valeria Sinyarskaya and Bertina Dew
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Kyle and Erin Leonard
Lisa and Ruthie Rogers
Curtis Cooper (Acoustic Guitarist)
Bertina Dew and Erika Ballard
Marcy Carrier and Kelley Breeding (Board Members)
Dewayne and Anita Sutherland
Jared and Heather Stallard
Neil Burcham and Andy Baker (Jazz 251)
Newly engaged Bobbye Frentz and David Larkin
Michael and Kathy Richards
SWEET LULU’S BOUTIQUE
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Sweet Lulu’s Boutique
Grand Opening PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
Sweet LuLu owners Terry, Shelby, and Chenoa
Katie checking out with Shelby
Bekki Repass modeling Sweet LuLu’s
Kiana ready to check out customers
Sweet LuLu’s Boutique opened it’s doors for business on Friday April 22nd. Kingsport’s newest clothing boutique celebrated the opening with wine, food, flowers and of course, fashion, because that’s what it’s all about. Located at 2995 Fort Henry Drive Suite 400, Sweet LuLu’s has some pretty sweet deals, with hot new looks and prices. They offer trendy, affordable clothing with a bohemian twist. The boutique offers tees, dresses, hats and anything you need to look gorgeous this season with prices up to $75. They’re open weekdays until 7pm , as well as Sunday afternoons. Check out their looks on Facebook, Instagram or online at https://sweet-lulu.myshopify.com.
Kiana, Shelby, and Emily
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SEEN IN ABINGDON
GLENROCHIE COUNTRY CLUB
Northeast State Community College’s
1st Annual Golf Tournament STORY BY REBEKAH BISHOP AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAYTON CARTER
As part of the 50th Anniversary Celebration Northeast State Community College held its first golf tournament at the beautiful Glenrochie Country Club in Abingdon, VA on April 29, 2016. Thanks to sponsors Business Information Systems, Carnegie Hotel, Citizen’s Bank, J.A. Street & Associates, Johnston Memorial Hospital, Kendall Electric, Lake Pointe, S.J. Strategic Investments, and Workspace Interiors, proceeds from the tournament enabled the college to raise funding for student scholarship and programs. The players enjoyed a luncheon catered by Figaredo’s Club House, and received goodie bags and door prizes donated by Cheddar’s, Chick-fila, Chili’s, DynaBody of Bristol, Electric Sun Tanning, Exalt Gym of Piney Flats, First TN Bank, Food City, Glenrochie Country Club, Hibbett Sports, Jason’s Deli, Johnson City Brewing Company, Jones Chiropractic, Main Street Pizza, Mellow Mushroom, Red Lobster, and Simply Aesthetics & Wellness. This year’s winning teams were: 1st place Lake Point Team 1, 2nd place Johnston Memorial Hospital/First TN Bank, and 3rd place NeSCC Employee Team. Thank you to everyone who participated in the event to help the college celebrate 50 years.
Mike Bailey and Josh Harris
Charlie Taylor, Jordan Pennington, Robert Hollo, and James Gregory
Rebekah Bishop, Carson Waugh, Tom Wilson, Amanda Adams, Leigh Hornsby, Jonathan Brooks, and Bob Carpenter Lake Pointe Team: Chris Guy, Cameron Dugger, Steve Mortin, and Brantley Burris
Chip Smith and Jonathan Carver Bryan Mullins, Mike McCall, Steve Smith, and David Crockett
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ABINGDON SENIOR CENTER
SEEN IN ABINGDON
Animal Defense League
“Spayghetti� Dinner PHOTOS AND STORY BY JAMES HELMS
The volunteers at the Animal Defense League (ADL) held their fundraiser this year at the Abingdon Senior Center. For many years the fundraiser consisted of a 5K race usually held at the Creeper Trail but this year they wanted to try something different. Volunteers and members of the ADL held their spaghetti dinner for $15 a person. The dinner consisted of beverages, salad, spaghetti, rolls and dessert. During the evening there were raffles and a silent auction as well.
Volunteers
ADL has helped many pet owners who cannot afford the cost to have their pets spayed or neutered. Over the years, thousands of cats and dogs along with feral cats that live in our neighborhoods have been altered to help control the overpopulation. Organizers hope to make the spaghetti dinner an annual tradition. For more information visit www.adlwashcova.org
Barbara McCracken, Kathy Crane, and Kelly Crane Coleman
Deb Robinson
Jena Rudy and Mike Miller
Leslie Mondul
Charles Vess
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SEEN IN JONESBOROUGH
THE BLACKTHORN CLUB
Second Harvest Food Bank
of Northeast Tennessee’s
23rd Annual Golf Classic PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY PAYTON CARTER
On Monday, April 25th, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee held their 23rd Annual Golf Classic at the Blackthorn Club in Jonesborough. This event was a fundraiser to help feed the hungry in our area. Around 100 golfers gathered for this great cause. Bill Gatton Dealerships and other local businesses sponsored the tournament. Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee feeds around 40,000 people in our area each month. Second Harvest Food Bank would like to thank everyone for supporting this year’s fundraiser. Mark your calendars for our upcoming Farmer & Chef Event on August 4th, 6pm – 9pm, also held at the Blackthorne Club.
Citi Group Team - Lee Culberton, Robert Testerman, Rick Van Hoever, and David Phillips
Energy Solutions Team - John Carr, Phil Thompson, Chad Tipton, and Gary Shrum
Bank of Tennessee Team - Jan Yates, Fred Whitson, Tom Whitson, and Corey Corder
Gravely Baptist Church Team - Mike Cassell, David Salley, Terry Anderson, and Mark McDavid
Jerry Stewart, Jermy Beachner, and Steve Larson
Jan Yates and Corey Corder MRC Global Team - Matt Burns, Jeff White, Chris Frazier, and Daniel Smith
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Bill Gatton Team - Chris Holt, Daniel Smith, Justin Vance, and Jesse Ford
MACK WARD Rogersville, TN Team Mack Attack During an annual physical to play basketball, doctors noticed an unusual spot on Mack’s right leg. After a little over a month doctors chose to have a follow up MRI, which showed significant growth. “On December 23, 2014 I heard the words no parent ever wants to hear ‘Your child has a malignant tumor’.” Said Amanda -Mack’s mother.
GIDEON 1 year old Elizabethton, TN neuroblastoma Baby Gideon is a handsome little guy with a ready smile. During an exam prompted by some bruising and a lump on his head, the pediatrician felt a tumor in his abdomen. Gideon had neuroblastoma: stage 4 and high-risk. The tumor was discovered on a Monday, and by Thursday, Gideon was receiving his first dose of chemotherapy at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. His treatment plan also includes surgery, antibody therapy and a bone marrow transplant. Gideon’s mom, Katie, said, “We were of course scared to death when we first got here. Looking at my sweet little baby and thinking about having to lose him was just indescribable, unthinkable. We walk the halls now with confidence. Treatments are working. We just have much more peace.” Added Gideon’s dad, Gary, “As soon as I got here, it was abundantly clear that this was by far the best place to be in a terrible, terrible situation.” Notably, Gideon’s great-grandmother has been giving faithfully to St. Jude for over 25 years, never expecting she would personally know anyone who needed St. Jude – much less be a member of a St. Jude family herself. Like all families at St. Jude, Gideon’s will never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. “It’s amazing,” said Katie, “that in the midst of probably the greatest stress of my entire life – having a child undergoing treatment for cancer – I’ve never been less worried about day to day things like where my next meal is coming from.” 36 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
Mack and his family celebrated an early Christmas before they were sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis Tennessee. While at St. Jude, Mack was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma and began a rigorous treatment plan. Mack was on five different chemotherapy drugs and completed 14 rounds of chemo while in Memphis. On August 6, 2015 Mack had an above knee amputation. While at St. Jude for treatment, Mack’s family never received a bill, for treatment, travel, housing or food-because the only thing a family should worry about is helping their child live. On August 18, 2015 Mack was declared no evidence of disease. One month after amputation, Mack began walking without using his crutches and now has a prosthetic leg. Mack is officially cancer free and is home in Rogersville. Mack has dreams to compete in the Paralympics and loves sports, turtles and helping others. Mack has the ability to chase his dreams because of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Sept. 24
FAITH WILSON Kingsport, TN Team Faith
©2016 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (24646)
December of 2014 at the age of 8 Faith was a healthy and happy girl. Faith began having headaches and later found a knot on the back of her neck. The following Monday Faith’s mother, Kim took her to the pediatrician; Faith was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and was send St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis that Thursday. Faith and her family spent several months in Memphis at St. Jude receiving chemotherapy. During her treatments, Faith remained true to her name “Her faith in Jesus is a light to everyone who knows her.” Says Kim. Faith is cancer free and gets chemo weekly in Johnson City at the St. Jude affiliate. Faith will end treatment in December 2016. Faith is a very strong, sweet, bubbly girl who enjoys volleyball, swimming, playing her banjo and hanging out with her friends. “We are incredibly thankful for the wonderful care and love she has received at St. Jude” said Kim.
Kingsport Town Center Event Start: 7:00 a.m. Run Start: 8:30 a.m. Walk Start: 8:45 a.m.
Sign up today. stjude.org/walkrun
PEAK Derby Party
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
MEADOWVIEW CONVENTION CENTER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TARA HODGES SWEET SNAPS | STORY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
Kingsport’s PEAK gathered together on the patio at the Meadowview Marriott Saturday May 7th for their Second Annual Derby Party. Sporting their best plaid, bowties, and head attire while drinking mint juleps and smoking cigars, the young professionals readied for the race. Keeping true with southern tradition and hospitality, the Derby was open to non members, as well as members, and all where invited to play croquet and other games, while waiting for the main event. Gathered around the big screen and gazing over the big hats , guests watched the horses to see who was going to be the winner. Sponsors Reedy Creek Vineyards and Cellars, Cattails at Meadowview and Raindow’s End Florist helped to make this a annual gathering one that we’re looking forward to next year. For ore information on PEAK and it’s upcoming events you can find them on Facebook or contact them at 423.246.6550.
Kevin Shipley and Melody Taylor
State Theatre’s Zachary Starnes with Logan Blair Mitchell
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Brittany Davis with Ariana Vople
Tiffany Hawley
PEAK Group Derby Partiers
Kayla Gilliam
PEAK President Corey Shepherd arriving
THE FOUNDATION EVENT FACILITY
SEEN IN BRISTOL
Northeast State Biggest Hats; Winner (middle) Kathy Keen
Bobby Chacon and Leigh Hornsby
Derby STORY BY REBEKAH BISHOP | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SALLY DODSON
Northeast State Community College brought a little bit of Churchill Downs to the Tri-Cities on May 7, 2016. The 5th Annual Northeast State Derby was held in downtown Bristol at the Foundation Event Facility. Proceeds from the Derby provide support for student scholarships and programs. This year’s event sponsors were Chocolate Elegance, Carolyn Ferrell, Janice & Austin Gilliam, Charles & Pat Green, Steve & Ashley Grindstaff, Holidays Florist & Gifts, Leigh Hornsby & Bobby Chacon, Allen Hurley, Carol Kimberlin, Sher Extensions, Lee Shillito, The Gift Shoppes of the Mountain States Auxiliary, VIPSEEN, WCYB, Wellmont Health System, and Wilson Worley. Sherri Bacon and friend
In addition to live coverage of the Kentucky Derby, guests enjoyed sponsor-a-horse, hat contests, best dressed man contest, and door prizes. This year the hat contest winners were Kathy Keen for the Biggest Hat, Aubryn Street for the Best Themed Hat, and Ashley Grindstaff for the Best Fascinator. Jim Austin was name Best Dressed Man. After the Derby coverage and enjoying the tastes of a traditional Kentucky Derby menu, everyone danced the night away to the music of the Spirit of Soul Dance Band. Northeast State Community College would like to thank the sponsors, guests, and volunteers for supporting the event and contributing to another successful year!
Wallace Ross, Jr. and Alberta Mitchell
Sally Dodson, VIPSEEN and Rebekah Bishop, Alumni and Events Coordinator, NE State
Best Dressed Man Winner: Jim Austin
Ashley Grindstaff, Best Fascinator Winner
Be sure to mark your calendar to join us next year for the Derby on Saturday, May 6, 2017.
Best Themed Hat winner Aubryn Street
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2016
Balloon Rally
Pilots & Balloons 35 Year Anniversary
The Fun Fest Hot Air Balloons are magical as they engage our youthful excitement through their amazing size, color and grace as the flash of the burners roar to awaken the gentle giants. Come watch them fill the sky. Join Holston Valley Medical Center, the Marsh Regional Blood Center and Admiral Propane as we continue this Fun Fest tradition that has helped define our city for this it’s 35th year. FRIDAY, JULY 22 Balloon Glow 8:00pm to 9:30pm SATURDAY, JULY 23 Breakfast with Balloons 6:00am
The Balloon Glow will take place on Friday July 22, starting at dusk. Watch as the balloons shine
Stephen Bennett
The Flying portion of the Fun Fest Hot Air Balloon Rally will take to the skies Saturday morning and afternoon around 6:30am and 6:30pm weather permitting. Cheer on your favorite balloon team as they take to the skies and fly over the Fun Fest crowds.
Derek Browning
Jim lives in Louisville, KY. This is his first year attending Fun Fest.
Puppy n’ Pals
Morning Mass Ascension 6:30am Afternoon Liftoff 6:30pm
like lanterns most standing over 5 stories tall, on Fort Henry Drive by the Civic Auditorium. The Teams look forward to meeting all festival-goers and answering any questions they may have. Help us Thank them all for attending and visiting our Kingsport Fun Fest.
Derek has been attending Fun Fest as crew for several years for Frank McCrory and Tom Steinbock. This will be the first year he attends as a pilot with his own balloon and we are proud to have him with us.
This End Up Ed McDaniel
Chase’s Dream Frank McCrory
Frank has been a Fun Fest Pilot for many years and has enjoyed ballooning all over the world. He comes to us from Floyds Knobs, IN.
Calypso
Pilot has been flying for almost 30 years. Calypso is purple with orange and green sails. She is crewed by a bunch of “parrotheads.”
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Drew Egerton
Drew is a 31 year old second generation pilot, son of Buck and Louise. His first ballooning experiences came at a year old and his first flight was at 4. Now with well over 400 hours of experience, Drew has flown for tourist riders and corporate programs but primarily enjoys competition. He won the BFA’s Top Rookie Award in 2010 and has competed in 4 US National Championships, including a 6th place finish in 2014.
Louise Egerton
Louise became interested in ballooning in 1986 when she accompanied one of her best friends to the Freedom Weekend Aloft in South Carolina and joined the chase crew for pilot Harold Penny. She then became a student pilot loater that year. Louise participated in several balloon competitions, such as the Carolinas Fest, the Pellissippi State Event and Fun Fest!
Major Tom Heartburn
Stuart Enloe
Wayne Fortney
Wayne lives in Kingsport, Tennessee, and has been flying his balloon named Rosie since 1996. His entire family enjoys the sport, and he even met his wife on a balloon ride in Bristol, Virginia. “Festus” (aka “Sunny Boy”) joins “Rosie” as Adventure Time Ballooning’s newest addition to the fleet of Hot Air Balloons owned and operated by Wayne and Ann Fortney. His continuing mission is to represent not only Fun Fest, but to also travel the world as Kingsport’s high flying ambassador. Spreading the word about our region and encouraging folks from far and wide to Visit Kingsport via a website entitled www.FlyFestus.com
Festus (a.k.a. Sunny Boy)
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Stuart has been a great friend to Fun Fest for many years representing RE/MAX. He and his family come to us from Woodstock, Ga.
Tom Mullinax
I have been flying since 1987 and attending Funfest in some form as pilot or crew from 1989 or 1990 not sure which but have been attending for a while. The flights from Allandale Mansion will always stand out in my flying career. I’ve flown in most of the Southern states as well as Canada. The flight across the Canadian Parliament Building was one of the highlights of my time flying. The many trips to Albuquerque also stand out as interesting flights. The Diehl family from Johnson City are my long time crew members.
Jim Hendershot Jim is an instrument rated fixed wing pilot and a commercial hot air balloon pilot. He has been flying balloons for 29 years. He taught his daughter Jayme to fly and she now has her private balloon license.
Palmetto Paws
2016
Robert Sarratt
Anthony Seeger
From Rock Hill, SC. I have been a pilot for 12 years and always enjoy flying in Kingsport.
Eagles Wings
Anthony has been a loyal Fun Fest Pilot for a hand-full of years and we enjoy him and his team every year.
Carolina Twist
Tom Steinbock
Sunset Dream
Comes to us from Louisville, KY and has flown balloons in 37 states over the past 29 years.
Tim Strand
Tim and his wife Clare are coming to us from Bloomsbury, NJ. He will be flying Wayne Fortney’s other balloon “Rosie” with the Holston Valley Hospital and Marsh banner’s on it. He has flown balloons all over the world and we are very blessed that they choose to come to Kingsport to support Fun Fest.
Rosie
Dan & DJ Stukas
Dan and his son DJ Stukas come to us from Central, SC. This will be the first year they will be attending Fun Fest. Please seek them out and make them feel welcome. We hope they wish to return for many years to come. Dan will be flying “BB” and DJ will be flying his balloon named “Lucky Strike”.
BB
Robert Willbanks
Lucky Strike
Georgia Garden Flower
Robert and his wife Carolyn are great friends to Fun Fest. They come to us from Lavonia, GA. Robert was actually Fun Fest’s very first Balloonmeister and we are happy that they have chosen to celebrate the rally’s 35th anniversary with us.
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SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
MILLENNIUM CENTER
ETSU National Alumni
Association Awards Banquet STORY BY GINNY WRIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACQUELINE JOSEPH
The 2016 ETSU National Alumni Association’s Award Banquet and Annual Meeting was held on May 6th at the Millennium Center in Johnson City. The alumni have gathered on the evening prior to spring commencement since the class of 1929. Mr. Jeffrey Taylor passed the gavel to Mrs. Renee Bays-Lockhart, who will serve as the President of the ETSU National Alumni Association.
Kathy and Larry Mullins, recipients of 2016 Award of Honor
Renee Bays-Lockhart, receives the gavel to become President of ETSU National Alumni Association
Louise Luchetti Skalko, 2016 Outstanding Alumna
Dee and Gina Daugherty
The Class of 1966 was welcomed into the Golden Fifties Club during the evening banquet and other activities during the weekend. Class members present escorted the Class of 2016 into the Commencement on May 7th. Presentations were made to Honorary Alumni, Distinguished Alumni in Education and Higher Education, Awards of Honor, and Outstanding Alumni. The Outstanding Alumni awards were presented to Louise Luchetti Skalko (Class of 1984) and Gordon Ball (Class of 1970). The ETSU National Alumni Association believes that ETSU is greater with the involvement and cooperation of alumni.
Brittany Ezell, Gordon Ball (2016 Outstanding Alumnus), and Steve Forbes
Dr. Robert Plummer, Joe Grandy (2016 Honorary Alumni), and Scott Carter
Dr. MaryLou Apple received the 2016 Distinguished Alumna in Higher Education award. Pictured here with Hannah Manis and Bethany Jewett, two current students in Nursing.
Dr. Jack Rhoton, third from left, received the 2016 Distinguished Alumnus in Education award.
Jeff Walker and Kathy Magruder
Dr. Brian Noland (ETSU President) and Tom Tull
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BOONE’S CREEK CHRISTIAN CHURCH
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
Academy Of Strings
Stringtacular!
2016 Fundraiser PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
Angie Winters, Chun Thomas, and Bonnie Messerschmidt
Amy Bell and Carmina Garcia
Christina, Finn, and Andrew Hutchinson
Caroline and Christen Claybrook
Boone’s Creek Christian Church was host to the Academy of Strings annual fundraiser STRINGTACULAR on Saturday, April 16th. Attendees were treated to an afternoon of excitement and family fun,while children of all ages took the stage and performed for their family and supporters. Local businesses showed their support of the arts with donations for the silent auction, which coupled with ticket sales, raised almost $13,000.00. Established in 1991 and dedicated to the personal development of students through quality music education and performance, The Academy of Strings gives back to the community by performing for a variety of community and civic organizations and provides music education to more than 80 students. To find out more about the organization, contact Directors Tim and Kim Barrett at 423.915.1212 or visit them online at http://www.academyofstrings.com/.
Directors Kim and Tim Barrett
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SEEN IN BRISTOL
BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
Spring Race 5k PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
It’s Bristol Baby! A large group of runners and walkers participated in the Spring Race 5k at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 15th. It was also the Food City Race Night, so there were lots of activities happening at the Speedway. The event was sponsored by Bristol Motor Speedway, Fleet Feet Sports, Food City and Pepsi, benefitting Speedway Children’s Charities. The State of Franklin Track Club provided the timing for the race participants. 100% of the money raised by the event went to support Bristol Speedway Children’s Charities. This organization was founded in 1996 to help children in the surrounding area of Bristol Motor Speedway. Phil Horner of Fleet Feet Sports
Operating as a 501(c)(3) 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 501(c)(3) organizations. Ms. Claudia H. Byrd serves as the Executive Director of Speedway Children’s Charities (SCC). The Bristol chapter has distributed nearly $10 million dollars since its inception.
Nancy and Victoria Hopson sporting the event t-shirts!
Melissa and Greg Foster
State of Franklin Track Club timing the race
Andrew Campbell is the first to cross the finish line!
Claudia Byrd and Betsy Holleman
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First lady to finish – Melissa Foster
Run, Forest, Run! (Greg Edward)
THE BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM
SEEN IN BRISTOL
Frank Solivan’s
Dirty Kitchen
Experience STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAYTON CARTER
On Saturday, April 23rd, Frank Solivan held his “Dirty Kitchen Experience” at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol, Tennessee. A benefit for WBCM Radio Bristol, Frank Solivan’s Dirty Kitchen Experience echoes the food and music gatherings Solivan enjoyed with his family while growing up. Accompanied by his band Dirty Kitchen, Frank served a smokin’ hot side of bluegrass that followed with a tasty meal, prepared by Frank himself. On the hills of an acclaim-filled year, including a Grammy nomination for best Bluegrass Album in 2015, Frank Solivan and his band (Dirty Kitchen) are on the road supporting family, friends, and heroes.
Russ and Kathie Love
Frank Solivan and his band
Dan Bieger, Nell Bieger, Angie Owens, and Dwight Owens
Beth Shumaker, Bill Shumaker, Terry Smith, and Larry Kirksey
80’s Girl in a 2016 World
BY BETH STREET
Way back before the Internet, before reality television, even before yogurt was Greek, there was a magical time known as the 1980’s. It was a simpler time in many ways, but school in the 80’s was hard. Kids today are too soft to even comprehend the horrors we had to face on a daily basis. School back then was nothing like school today. There were no iPads; we used actual textbooks. Computer class in the 80’s consisted of trying not to touch the center of floppy disks and praying you didn’t die of dysentery on the Oregon Trail. For personal computing in the 80’s, we used what was known as an IBM Selectric. The Selectric was an extremely loud typewriter that weighed approximately 412 lbs. When a whole typing class was doing a timed drill, it sounded like a busy day at the rifle range. There was no such thing as auto correct, so mistakes were irreversible. Kids today have no clue the kind of pressure involved when typing without a ‘delete’ button. No clue! There was no such thing as political correctness. We sat “Indian style”. There was none of this “crisscrossapplesauce” stuff. We sat like the Indians and we were proud to do so, even though none of us knew if Indians actually sat that way. At Halloween, we wore our costumes to school, masks and all. Our costumes didn’t have to meet dress code, because there was no dress code. No one was offended by our costumes, because no one was offended by anything in the 80’s. We made ashtrays in art class, because most everyone’s parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles smoked cigarettes, so not only was it a lesson in ceramics, an ashtray was a practical gift for the entire family. Back then we could buy soft drinks in the school cafeteria vending machines, because we knew that we were all going to die from a nuclear explosion, not from drinking sugary drinks. We took peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to school in our lunchboxes everyday and our moms sent cupcakes for the class on our birthdays, because no one was allergic to peanut butter or gluten back then. No one was allergic to anything in the 80’s. Likewise, if someone got hurt on the playground, they didn’t remove the monkey bars; they just didn’t let the “awkward” kids back on them. Everyone took woodshop class. We used actual heavy machinery with little or no instruction in safety, because we didn’t need safety courses back then. We had common sense. If someone lost a finger making a wooden birdhouse in shop class, his parents never assumed it was the teacher’s fault, they just assumed their kid was stupid or accident-prone. Back then we all took Home Economics where we learned how to cook, sew buttons, iron shirts, and create a household budget. Home Economics taught us valuable life skills that we would all use immediately after high school graduation when our parents told us to get out of the house and get a job. Doing a research paper was a total pain. Kids today have the Internet, Google, and Wikipedia; back then we had a card catalog, the Dewey Decimal system, and Encyclopedia Britannica. And it sucked to be us. No trips to the craft store to make elaborate science fair projects. We actually had to do our own projects from start to finish with random crap we found in our garage and with no help from our parents. In the 80’s, parents didn’t spend much time at the school or helping with homework, because they had more important things to do. Things like working jobs to make money so we could eat and so they could pay the mortgage. They showed up at the school on parent’s night so the teachers knew they weren’t deadbeats, but other than that, education was left to the professionals. In the 80’s, no one cared about self-esteem. In gym class, the teacher appointed her favorite students to be team captains and those team captains chose kids to be on their team in order of athletic ability. If you were the shortest, least coordinated kid in the class, you got picked last and nobody cared. Don’t ask me how I know. I just do. Dodge ball wasn’t considered savagery back then. It wasn’t unusual to leave gym class with bruises or the imprint of a ball somewhere on your body and our parents didn’t call the school board threatening to sue because of physical and emotional abuse. In the 80’s, if someone bullied you, there was no such thing as “telling the teacher”. All parents had a rule, “Don’t start a fight, but if someone starts one with you, you better finish it”. Kids of the 80’s had just one choice when it came to bullies: have someone hold your Members Only jacket and fight them. It was natural selection. Kill or be killed. Kids today would be traumatized by what we went through as students in the 80’s.
Peace out,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 48 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
TRI-CITIES CENTER FOR COSMETIC DENTISTRY
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic
Dentistry Open House STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY CAROLYN KESTNER
Dr. Kathy Sanders, DMD, AAACD and her team opened their doors to the community and patients Monday, April 11th to celebrate truly remarkable smiles. The Open House event also marked an anniversary for Leigh Bergemann, New Patient & Complex Case Coordinator, who has been with Dr. Sanders for 11 years. Guests were treated to a delicious, healthy buffet of food provided by patient and caterer, Karen Hobba. The office was open for tours - including treatment rooms, lab, and photography studio, where their smile makeovers are immortalized with before and after pictures. Every guest received a gift bag and was entered for a chance to win the Grand Prize, tickets for two for dinner and a trip to the Barter Theatre in Abingdon. Conveniently located off Interstate 81, Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry is located at 4623 Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport (Colonial Heights). You can reach them by phone at 423.239.7899, check out their testimonial videos on YouTube at https://www. youtube.com/user/TriCitiesSmiles/videos or on their website www.tricitiessmiles.com. Dr. Sanders is one of only eight dentists in the state of Tennessee to achieve accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. As Charlie Lowe said, “She’s not only a dentist, she’s an artist.”
Dr Kathy Sanders and Team
Leigh Bergemann, New Patient and Complex Case Coordinator celebrating 11 years with Dr. Sanders
Patient Charlie
Kara Nunley, Mary Robinette, Jo Odom, Dr. Fred Sanders, Dr. W.C. Lady, and Dr. Kathy Sanders
WINGED DEER PARK
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
Furry Fest PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
Belle Gates, a Tri-Cities High School student, is working on her Gold Award for Girl Scouts. The Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting and challenges the Girl Scout to make a change in the world. For her project, Belle organized an event to benefit furry friends from The Humane Society of Washington County. The event was held on Saturday, May 7th at Winged Deer Park in Johnson City. Participants had the opportunity to play with adoptable dogs and cats, participate in games for prizes, or play on inflatables. A hot dog lunch was also available. Linda Bearfield, Volunteer on the Board of Humane Society of Washington County
Christopher Gannon and Annie Ensley set up games for the event.
Derek Gates
Belle’s parents – Joe and Charlotte Gates
All proceeds from the event will go to help the Washington County Humane Society.
Roni Gray – Troop Leader
Tim Robinson with Daisy
Belle Gates, organizer of the event Puppy Kisses!
Cadie Todt and Josh Heimbach
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SEEN IN KINGSPORT
BAYS MOUNTAIN PARK
3 Annual Run Like a Princess rd
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
A large crowd gathered at Bays Mountain Park on Saturday, April 30th to cherish the memory of Delilah Kennedy Watts. The Princess Delilah Foundation organized the 3rd Annual Run Like a Princess event to raise awareness and funds for their mission and to celebrate Delilah’s 3rd Birthday and 2nd “Angelversary”. The Foundation has a mission to make her name bring a smile to someone’s face every time it is heard, and there were plenty of smiles during this event. RunCorps provided race timing and race photos are available on the Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/groups/runcorps/ To learn more about the Princess Delilah Foundation, please visit their website www.princessd.org Sponsors for the event included: Carter Trent Funeral Home, BandE Collision, Hamilton Group, Bagel Exchange, Church Hill Middle School, Interstate Sign, Bays Mountain Park, TotallyPromotional, and Olivia Breeding.
Arabella was the first child to finish the race!
Lisa Childress (Delilah’s Grandmother)
Gina Shouse (1st), Keith Russell (2nd), and Katie Wadley (3rd) Board Members and Volunteers for Princess Delilah Foundation
Heather and Jeff Watts Heather Jennings and Kris Lumpkins
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Lia Davidson and Adair (Primary Nurse for Delilah at Vandy NICU)
BOWMAN JEWELERS
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
LAKEVIEW MARINA
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Lakeview Marina Bowman Jewelers Annual Grand Opening Johnson City Chamber After Hours STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SALLY DODSON
Bowman Jewelers hosted Chamber After Hours May 12. Despite the heavy rain earlier in the evening, there was a sizeable crowd viewing the gorgeous jewelry. Jewelry designs created by Charles Garnier, Gabriel and Co., Scott Kay, Yael Designs, Frederic Sage and Sara Blaine were displayed creatively about the store. Cherokee Distributing provided beer, Johnny Brusco’s brought in pizza, lasagna and a vegetable display and Cartridge World provided the wine. Guests registered in hopes of winning and many did. Alan Dodson won a bottle of champagne, Sean Herron a money clip, Maggie Cooper won a beautiful white and blue pearl bracelet and Daniel Blackburn won a travel jewelry box.
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAYTON CARTER
Lakeview Marina opened for the 2016 season on Friday, April 22nd. Lakeview Marina has been a Tri-Cities staple for over 50 years now. Perched on the main channel of Boone Lake, the marina offers full service capabilities and specializes in all aspects of boat service. This year’s season promises a music lineup from some of the best bands in our area, including Asylum Suite, Wolfcreek, Benny Wilson, Ali Randolph & The Outta Luck Band, and many others. In addition to live bands every weekend, Marker ‘2’ Grille also offers musical entertainment on Thursdays and karaoke on Wednesday evenings. This venue contains an amazing atmosphere, a great view, and the best part, the food! The restaurant welcomes large parties. To R.S.V.P., contact Shana Al Hadi at (423) 480-6742 or via e-mail at shanaalhadi@gmail.com
On hand was Andy Goldblatt with Aiya Designs, displaying PiYaro, which is found exclusively at Bowman Jewelers.
Moe Puckett, Debbie Clemons, and Rob Clemmons
Katie Reid, Victoria Bowman-Duever, Rob Bowman, Linda Bowman-O’Dell, and Kaitlen McBride-Kiger
Ansley Ferguson and Jose Guerrero Kaitlen McBride-Kiger and Andy Goldblatt
Bo Whitaker and Katie Reid
Debbie England and David Meredith
Penny and Jerry Cole
Rachel Buckles and Payton Carter
Sarah Jones and Jason Lyons
Jacob Britt and Cody Ketron
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VIPBEAUTY
Quick Change Artist BY SHERRI JESSEE
S
imple changes in hair and makeup can easily take you from a sassy day look to smoldering evening style. Award winning hair and makeup artist, Sherri Jessee, shares secrets on how she created these great looks.
LOOK ONE:
A carefully crafted cat eye and a nude lip creates a strong yet feminine appeal. Stylist Secret: Use a small but firm brush and draw a triangle from the edge of the eye and fill in using Sherri’s Luxe Creme Eye Liner in ‘Onyx.’.
CREDITS Hair & Makeup Sherri Jessee Photo Mickey Baker Model Sidney Durham
LOOK TWO:
Create Sexy Bouncy Curls in half the time with no clip lines by using a curling wand. Stylist Secret: Lightly mist each section with a heat protector and wrap hair around a Sultra Bombshell 1” Curling Wand (sultra.com)
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LOOK THREE:
Soft tendrils gently framing the face gives glam to this simple braided up-style. Stylist Secret: Split the hair into two sections, braid and cross over the top of the head and pin.
LOOK FOUR:
Soft waves and a smokey eye never go out of style. Stylist Secret: Smudge Water Proof Gel Liner on the lid before patting on your shadow. To create a softer look, use shadow colors like green or purple. (sherrijessee.com)
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
HOLIDAY INN
Johnson City Chamber
Networking EXPO STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAYTON CARTER
On May 4, 2016, Johnson City Chamber of Commerce held their annual Networking EXPO Seminar at the Holiday Inn in Johnson City, TN. Many local businesses, both small and large, were in attendance. Eastman Credit Union, Select Seven Credit Union, @ Work Personnel, Johnson City Power Board, Lexington Senior Living, Cartridge World, and Jones Chiropractic Clinic – just to name a few, attended this event. Bob Evans Catering also contributed with some samples of their tasty southern style food. Bob Evans Catering: Becky McCray and Tammy Jablonski
Cartridge World: Jessie Trivett and Jessie Pearce
Select Seven Credit Union: Kevin Jones and Amanda Foster
Jones Chiropractic Clinic: Rebecca Myers and Lindsay Poteat
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Eastman Credit Union: Debra Wilhelm, Amy Bailey, and Holly Corum
Johnson City Power Board: Patrick Phipps and Josh Cole
Net 360 Digital Media Agency
@Work Personnel: Heather Hopson and Tracie Metcalf
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
WORKSPACE INTERIORS
Kingsport Chamber After Hours
Lynn James, Bill Dudney, and Diane McCrary
Alderman Darrel Duncan and Chris Mullins
Craig Mullins, Shannon Counts, and Sonny Adinolfi
Derrick and Ashley Byrd
Larry Braaten, Tianna Storey, and Nancy Braaten
Vivian Crymble and Rebecca Shelton
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY SUSAN COUCH
Kingsport Chamber of Commerce after hours was held at Workspace Interiors on Thursday evening April 14th. There was a large turnout for the evening and all enjoyed the food catered by East Coast Wings and Grill and craft beer was provided by Sleepy Owl Brewery. The office space, which is a beautifully designed workspace with a large open floor plan, held the large gathering with ease. The evening was enjoyed by all!
Lorrie Cooper, Lori Payne, Jenny Feathers, and Jason Miller
MEADOWVIEW CONVENTION CENTER
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American Heart Association
Go Red For Women
Luncheon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
The Grand Ballroom at the Meadowview Marriott Convention Center was draped in red on Friday May 13th for heart disease. The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women, the world’s largest network of women standing together to save women’s lives from heart disease , held their luncheon, and LOTS of Tri-Cities’ ladies showed up in support. Signature Sponsor, Mountain States Health Alliance, along with Food City, Bank of Tennessee, Blue Cross Blue Shield, News Channel 11 and 98.5 WTFM helped educate attendees about the signs and dangers of heart disease often missed. In addition to the heart screenings and other, interactive stations available, guest speakers, including a local doctor and heart disease survior informed and inspired. To find out more about Go Red and it’s mission or to learn more about women’s heart disease visit www.goredforwomen.org. For local American Heart Association Tri Cities happenings, find them on Facebook.
Signature Sponsors Mountain State Health Alliance
WTFM and WJHL ladies
Angie Stout and Danica Powell with Katie Erpenbach
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
ALLANDALE MANSION
B.U.D.S. Prom PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY PAYTON CARTER
On Thursday, April 28th, 2016 the Rotary Club of Kingsport Downtown hosted their annual B.U.D.S. Alternative Prom at Allandale Mansion. The B.U.D.S. (Buddies Understanding Different Students) is a comprehensive educational program designed for students who are eligible for special services due to severe mental disabilities. While each student has an educational program that is fitted to his or her individual learning needs, a yearly curriculum focus is also addressed. Students in the program are provided with “BUDS”. “BUDS” are selected 12th grade peers who give up one class period each day to work in the Life Skills classroom. While both groups benefit from the program, the main goal is to remove or minimize barriers to social inclusion in the community, home, and within individuals.
Dakota Hall, Kathie Lyons, and Macy Johnson
Like Skill Staff
Jake Gaynor and BUDS
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Joe Ley and Jon Fales
Lilly Lagunas and Mekayla Frye
Cody Randolph, Louie Cherry, and BUDS
Rebecca Moody and BUDS
Allison Audette and Zachary Smith
Allie Carrol, Lashae Winwood, and Maci Snodgrass
Chrissy Grammatikas, Katelyn Winegar, and Courtney Crussell
THE VENUE
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
Cocktails
STORY BY GINNY WRIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACQUELINE JOSEPH
Ginny Wright, Audie Lacy, and Ren Fakonas
Jamie and Nathan Jackson
Morgan Jackson, Leslie McDonald, Courtney Wells, Kelly Sentell, Jacqueline Joseph, Jody Marie Jones, and Jamie Jackson
Jessie and Jon Leach
Lenora Penny, Emily Woods, and Meredith Seiber
The Junior League of Johnson City held its signature spring event, Cocktails, on Friday, April 22nd, in downtown Johnson City at The Venue. Presented by First Tennessee, Cocktails featured a variety of heavy hors d’oervres, drinks, a silent auction, and a special performance by the band, SPANK. Over 130 attendees enjoyed a fun night out while benefitting the mission of the Junior League. This year’s funding will continue the League’s community impact through direct funding to agencies, leadership development, and over 500 hours of volunteer assistance to the community. A large portion of this year’s event revenue will specifically fund a special project, through a partnership with East Tennessee State University’s Prescription Drug Abuse and Misuse Task Force, to create a neonatal abstinence syndrome registry and long-term study to improve the care of babies with NAS and their developmental outlook for the future.
Kim Young, Audie Lacy and Caroline Rush
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SEEN IN BRISTOL
ADDILYNN MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Steve Hawkins, Moderator; Lorie Bradley, Director of Community Outreach United Way of Bristol; Kay Ward, Coordinator of Family & Community Engagement Bristol TN city schools; Jennifer Hurt, Director of Federal Programs Bristol VA Public schools; Angie Sproles, Executive Director
PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY SUBMITTED
As the sign connecting the Virginia and Tennessee sides of our city-states, Bristol is indeed “A Good Place to Live.” However, some families living in Bristol don’t have a place they can truly call home. That’s where Family Promise of Bristol makes a difference. Working together with an impressive interfaith network, their mission is to help homeless and low-income families with children achieve sustainable independence and secure stable housing. On April 25, approximately 200 people gathered at Addilynn Memorial United Methodist Church in support of Family Promise of Bristol’s “Home Sweet Home” Dessert Fundraiser to end child homelessness in the community.
Host Church
Attendees sampled a variety of desserts made by some of the area’s most talented bakers and bid on a wide selection of items during silent and live auctions. The evening’s auctioneer, Tennessee Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, successfully—and with wallet-opening wit—auctioned off items ranging from sought-after cakes to August race tickets at Bristol Motor Speedway. The evening’s program also hosted a panel of community experts to discuss the issue of homelessness in our area. Representatives from Family Promise of Bristol, the United Way of Bristol, and the Bristol Virginia and Tennessee school systems spoke about the impacts of homelessness on children academically and how Family Promise of Bristol helps enrolled families regain stable footing. As Family Promise of Bristol Board President Lynn Pannell explained, “The churches, staff and volunteers come together to help Family Promise have a major impact on families when they need it most. This is truly a transformational program with long term benefits.”
Angie Sproles, Executive Director, Family Promise of Bristol, Lynn Pannell, Family Promise Board President, Tracey Hawkins, and Christine Axthelm
During this school year alone, 205 children in the Bristol Tennessee and Virginia school systems wondered where they would sleep at night. Currently, there are 153 children in Bristol without a home. This annual fundraiser provides critical financial support to Family Promise of Bristol. “The funds raised by this event are crucial to our efforts assisting children and their families in finding a home and building better lives,” said Family Promise of Bristol Executive Director Angie Sproles. “The way we care about these struggling children now will have a long-lasting impact on their futures and our community as a whole.” A United Way of Bristol agency, Family Promise of Bristol was founded to address the needs of our community’s homeless families with children. Through partnerships with community resource agencies and an interfaith network of more than 20 congregations, Family Promise provides counseling, job assistance and temporary housing while helping these families secure permanent, stable housing. Since its founding in 2011, Family Promise of Bristol has helped 30 families get back on their feet. For more information about the organization, please visit www.familypromiseofbristol.org. 62 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey
RENAISSANCE ARTS CENTER THEATRE
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
KingsportARTS
Spring Follies STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA COFFEY
Robin Minga (Board Member) and Judy Fischer (Board President)
KingsportARTS presented Spring Follies on Saturday, April 30th & Sunday, May 1st. Local talent presented a variety of entertainment; including singing, dance, theater performance, and local musicians. Greg Johnson served as the Master of Ceremonies and entertained the crowd with a musical performance (with Amy Blair) and shared a couple of jokes. Music was also provided by a local band, Loose Leaves, Cassidy Johnson, Voices of the Mountains, Kristen Arwood, Cambia Flute Ensemble, and Kingsport Theatre Guild’s- Midsummer Night’s Dream Group. Dance performances were provided by Kingsport Ballet, Centre for the Performing Arts, and Studio One. KingsportARTS was first chartered in 1968 and continues to bring wonderful programs to our community. For more information, please visit their website: www.KingsportARTS.org
Elaine Barker (Board Treasurer) and Tina Radtke
“Mechanicals” from A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Cambia Flute Ensemble
Kingsport Ballet performing “Pandora’s Box: HOPE”
Amy Blair and Greg Johnson (MC of event)
Loose Leaves
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SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
SOUTH SIDE SCHOOL
Girls on
the Run 5K STORY BY JENNIFER ARES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELICA ARES
Girls on the Run of Northeast Tennessee held their spring race on May 7th with a starting and end in front of South Side School in Johnson City. The course was quick and flat and surrounded by beautiful sights on the Tree Streets of Johnson City. This was certainly the biggest GOTR race yet since there were schools from all over Johnson City, Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and several different counties that were in attendance. The support of the community, school leaders, and parents was amazing because the weather was overcast, cold, and wet. None of this deterred the spirit of the girls however. Each team was full of bubbly and energetic girls ready to tackle their 3.1mile course. Vendors were on hand to provide food, water, hair glitter, GOTR tattoos, face painting, yoga lessons, frozen ice, and TONS of encouragement. Each and every girl completed and finished the race, capping off a great season of hard work. “Girls on the Run inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.” Congratulations to all the girls and thank you to all of the sponsors, helpers, parents, and school leaders who work so hard each year to make GOTR a great success.
Jonesboro Elementary
Janine Pleasant showing off her “muscles”
Mt. Carmel Elementary School
Towne Acres Elementary School Van Pelt Elementary
Sarah, Hannah, and Etta of South Side School
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The Nelson Family
The Peterson Family
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
BAYS MOUNTAIN PARK
TN/VA Scholars
Senior Picnic
Celebration STORY SUBMITTED | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA BAKER
Kingsport Chamber hosted the 22nd TN/VA Scholars Senior Picnic Celebration to honor the efforts and achievements of the graduating TN/VA Scholar students. The picnic took place at Eastman Recreational Area near Bays Mountain Park on Monday, April 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The keynote speaker was Brian Miller, Superintendent, utilities division at Eastman’s Kingsport site. Miller graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1989 with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He completed the co-operative engineering program at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, VA during his time at UT. He’s been employed by Eastman for the past 27 years. TN/VA Scholars is a regional rewards and recognition program of the Kingsport Chamber for high school students. Sponsored by area business and industry, this program encourages students to complete high school courses in math, science, social studies, language arts/foreign language and computer literacy. Students must also meet community service, attendance and grade requirements throughout the four years of high school to participate. The Kingsport Chamber’s TN/VA Scholars Program recognized approximately 400 graduating seniors from Cherokee, Dobyns-Bennett, Gate City, Rye Cove, Sullivan North, Sullivan South, Twin Springs and Volunteer high schools. The program celebrated its 22nd year and has experienced exponential growth since initially coming to Northeast Tennessee in 1994 (under the name AIM Scholars) with Eastman’s education initiatives. Since the program’s inception, more than 10,000 students have graduated from the program. These students are entering the workforce better prepared for their futures. Eastman and BC Realty sponsor the TN/VA Scholars program. Event sponsors include American Electric Power, Brock Services, Canteen Vending, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Cooper Standard Automotive, Eastman Credit Union, Food City, Pristine Springs and Wal-Mart.
Erica Gibson, Abby Wettack, Kiera Starnes, and Cheyanne Howell (Gate City High School)
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Claire Kilgore, Maci Snodgrass, Alison Kilgore, and Emma Rogers (Dobyns-Bennett High School)
Hannah Puckett, Destiny Johnson, Sarah Arnold, and Tiffany Fugate (Sullivan North High School)
Anna Proctor, Amanda Dockery, and Savanah Bowen (Rye Cove High School)
Ryan Bewley of Jersey Mike’s, Lunch Sponsor
Lauren Couch and Kahlea Brown (Sullivan South High School)
T.N. V.A. Scholars Counsel and Volunteers
Lacey Kincer, Haley Dye, Kelsey Hunley, Jennesis Fisher, and Sydney Ross (Volunteer High)
Cherokee High School Eno Club
Serve it up Sassy
Berry Delicious Summer! RECIPE DEVELOPMENT, FOOD STYLING, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND ARTICLE BY LIZ BUSHONG
S
color scheme and dĂŠcor. Two white ruffled cake pedestals display the Blueberry Swirl Pound Cake and the Strawberry Tart.
Swing open the French door to your patio and layer your picnic table with vibrant summer colors and delicious berry desserts. We kept our seasonal table casual with red and white checked napkins, bright yellow sunflowers, and mason jars wrapped with twine. The desserts and sunflower arrangement take a stand as the table centerpiece. Repeating the checkered napkins and single sunflower stem at each place-setting, as well as the white dinner plate emphasizes the easy-to-create table
Even more fun with function, we turned our seasonal bench into our picnic table. Our outdoor bench turns into a half sized picnic table when the bench back becomes the table top. Every back yard, park and grill master should own one or more of these benches-to-table. If two tables are put together it creates one regular sized picnic table. These tables are build to last and can be used for all of your seasonal entertaining, not just for summer. Where do you get one of these bench-to-tables? Glad you asked. Boy scouts from troop #135 Sulphur Springs, Tennessee are building these bench/tables to raise money for a once in a lifetime high adventure camp called Florida Sea Base. The bench/tables are available for purchase with 100% of the proceeds going to the boys attending the
ummer means flip-flops, fireflies, and fresh ripe berries! When you pick the first ripe berry and the sweetened juice pops in your mouth, it’s time to make your favorite summer berry delicious desserts. Blueberry Swirl Pound Cake and a Strawberry Tart are two simple desserts to have on hand for all of your summer entertaining. These berry-inspired desserts are bursting with the sun-kissed flavors of the season.
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High Adventure Camp. You can contact Doug Bushong, my husband and scout master* for troop #135 to order your very own bench turned table or any boy scout from the troop will be happy to assist you. Your guests will enjoy the taste bud-tingling blend of blueberries and cream in the baked blueberry swirl pound cake. The pound cake features a delectable golden crust with a moist tender center that will make this cake your new- go-to dessert for any season. A lightly sweetened blueberry puree is layered in the cake batter and gently swirled before baking. This pound cake is perfectly wonderful all on its own, but when topped with a handful of fresh picked-ripe berries it becomes a sensational taste of summer. The Strawberry Tart is a chilled summer pie with show-stopping presentation. Fresh whole strawberries are de-stemmed and sit pretty with pointed ends up on top of a lemon and whipped cream filling. The prebaked sweet pastry crust is made with real butter and confectioner’s sugar making every bite of this tart one to remember. Both desserts are make-ahead with the Strawberry Tart being refrigerated for a few hours.
Baking with berries can be a bit tricky. Blueberries can make your muffins and cake batter turn purple if you don’t coat them in flour first before baking. Coating in flour will prevent the berry juice from spreading into the batter. Strawberries are almost 90% water and dark fuller berries have a higher concentration of water inside. This leads to a sticky unexpected soggy baked dish. To prevent a soggy baked dish select berries that are just slightly under ripe, having passed the stage of development where a white ring appears around the hull. For more information about strawberries and blueberries, how to grow, where to pick and health benefits, check with your local county extension agent or office. For more entertaining ideas and recipes go to http://www.lizbushong.com. Berries are beautiful! Whether you are picnicking at the beach or in your own backyard go out and play; put on your flip-flops, watch the flickering lights of the fireflies and eat all the fresh berries you can. This is going to be a berry delicious summer! Helping you Make a Statement, Make is Sassy and Make it Yours! Bench/table: Doug Bushong-Scout Master-Troop #135–Sulphur Springs, TN. E-Mail: dbushong17@gmail.com
Strawberry Tart www.lizbushong.com
CRUST 1 ¾ cup all purpose flour 1 ¼ cup confectioner’s sugar 1/2-teaspoon salt ½ cup butter, shredded and chilled 2 egg yolks 1 tablespoon chilled water 2 tablespoons strawberry jam, melted
LEMON CREAM CHEESE FILLING 1-3-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1-tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon fresh grated lemon zest ¾ cup sugar 1 cup heavy whipping cream + 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar 1 ½ pounds fresh strawberries, stemmed ¼ cup current jelly 1 tablespoon orange juice
INSTRUCTIONS PREPARE CRUST: Sift flour, confectioner’s sugar and salt together in a medium bowl. Grate butter and place on parchment then pop into freezer for 20 minutes. Add chilled butter to flour mixture, combine with hands or forks until crumbs resemble breadcrumbs. Mix egg yolks and water together, sprinkle over flour mixture to make soft dough. Knead a few seconds, flatten dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes. On floured surface, roll dough to ¼” thickness. Press dough into bottom and sides of an 8-inch tart pan. Line crust with alum foil and add pie weights or dried beans to foil. Chill another 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400. Bake tart shell for 15 minutes. Remove foil and weights and bake additional 5-8 minutes. Remove from oven and brush baked shell with melted strawberry jam. Set aside to cool. (Crust recipe will make two-8inch tart shells). FILLING: In food processor, process cream cheese until fluffy. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and sugar. Process until smooth, scraping down sides of bowl. In medium bowl, whip cream to soft peaks, add confectioner’s sugar, beat to firm peaks. Fold cream cheese mixture into whipped cream. Spoon filling into one tart shell. (Double filling ingredients recipe if making two tarts.) Cover filling with plastic wrap and chill 3 hours. Just before serving, arrange whole strawberries, pointed ends up, over the entire chilled tart in concentric circles. In microwave proof glass, add currant jelly and heat 12-15 seconds until melted, stir in orange juice. Remove from heat and let cool about 2 minutes. Stir jelly occasionally to prevent film from foaming. Spoon or brush warmed jelly mixture over berries and serve immediately. Yield: 8-9 servings
Make a Statement, Make it Sassy and Make it Yours!® Liz Bushong is an expert in the three-dimensional art of entertaining. She transforms simple dining occasions into beautiful and memorable moments by adding a touch of her own “sassy” style. For the past several years Liz been entrusted to decorate the White House for several Holidays. She is a featured monthly guest chef/designer on Daytime Tri-cities, Daytime Blue Ridge and other television shows. Liz is the author of the Just Desserts and Sweets & Savories cookbook as well as a contributing writer for VIPSEEN and Bella Magazine. For more information about Liz go to www.lizbushong.com or www.serveitupsassy.com 68 | VIPSEEN | JULY 2016
Blueberry Swirl Pound Cake www.lizbushong.com
THE SWIRL 1-1/2 cups fresh pureed blueberries 2 tablespoons cold water 1-tablespoon arrowroot or cornstarch 3-tablespoons granulated sugar Cake Batter: 1-cup butter, softened and no substitutions 3-cups granulated sugar 1-(8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 6 large eggs 1-tablespoon vanilla extract 1-tablespoon crème bouquet* extract 1-tablespoon grated orange zest 3 ½- cups all-purpose flour 1-teaspoon baking powder 1-teaspoon salt 1-cup heavy whipping cream GARNISH Buttercream Orange Glaze Fresh strawberries, blueberries, & mint INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 325. Coat 12-15 cup Bundt pan with shortening and coat with flour. Blueberry Swirl: In small mixing bowl, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until smooth. In small saucepan, stir together blueberry puree, 3 tablespoons sugar and cornstarch mixture. Bring to a boil over medium high heat stirring constantly. Boil blueberry mixture until thickened, set aside and let cool. Cake: Measure flour, baking powder and salt in medium bowl. Set aside. Beat butter and sugar with a mixer at medium high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add softened cream cheese and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beat well after each addition. Add extracts and zest, beat to combine. Gradually add flour and cream, alternating with cream, beginning and ending with flour, beat just until combined. Spoon 1/3 batter into prepared pan, spoon 1/3 blueberry swirl over batter, repeat layers ending with batter. Using a knife, swirl batter, but not too much. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Let cool in pan 10 minutes. Invert cake on cooling rack cool completely before glazing. BUTTERCREAM ORANGE GLAZE: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups confectioner’s sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1-tablespoon heavy cream, 1 teaspoon orange extract. Drizzle over cake. Garnish with individual blueberries on top of cake. Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries and mint sprig per serving. Yield: 8-10 servings. * Crème bouquet can be found @ the Gazebo in Kingsport, TN or online.
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
CASA FOR KIDS
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
MERLE NORMAN, THE MALL AT JOHNSON CITY
CASA for Kids Merle Norman 25th Anniversary Celebration Grand Opening STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY SALLY DODSON
Mayor John Clark and Alderman Darrell Duncan presented CASA Director Mary Kilpatrick with a proclamation from the City of Kingsport and the State of Tennessee on behalf of their 25th anniversary. April 28th, 2016 was named CASA for Kids, Inc. Day in Kingsport. CASA’s Board President, Barbara Haun and Tennessee CASA Director Lynn Farrar were also part the celebration. CASA’s mission is to speak up for the best interest of abused and/or neglected children involved in juvenile court proceedings (birth to 18 years). Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA’s) are part of the legal process – volunteering time and effort to help ensure that each child has the opportunity to live in a safe, permanent, and nurturing home. In 2015, 441 children were served which includes 233 new children, 208 cases were closed with 78 volunteers contributing 5,500 volunteer hours. To effectively serve the number of cases CASA receives, 200 volunteers are necessary in our area. Each Special Advocate is well trained and assigned 1-2 cases. While all cases are different, the average time required per month is about 10 hours. Working together, we can make a difference in the lives of abused and neglected children. To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer, please call (423) 247-1161or visit our Facebook page CASA for Kids, Inc.
STORY BY SALLY DODSON | PHOTOS BY ALAN DODSON
Merle Norman, Johnson City Mall, held their Grand Opening May 1, 2016. Nicole Britt purchased the store March 1, 2016. She, along with her 5 sales associates offer nearly 45 years of experience meeting the ongoing needs of their diverse customers. Merle Norman Cosmetics is a leading brand of premium skin care, foundations and color cosmetic products. Merle Norman Cosmetics is one of the few companies that continue to manufacture almost all of its products and packaging in the USA and uphold its founding mission: provide quality products backed by a full satisfaction guarantee; offer a Makeover and encourage customers to “try before they buy”. Its founder, Merle Nethercutt Norman, was one of the first women in cosmetics and a true innovator. In addition to creating breakthrough products, she empowered other women to begin their own businesses selling her cosmetic products. From powder to polish, mascara to moisturizer, Merle Norman continues to create technologically advanced skin care and color cosmetics. The new store also carries a wide selection of gifts including Spartini and Vera Bradley.
Nicole and her mother Diane Britt
Hannah Wright
John Clark, Mayor of Kingsport; Barbara Haun, CASA Board President; Lynn Farrar, Tennessee CASA Director; May Kilpatrick, CASA Director; and Darrell Duncan, Kingsport Alderman
CASA staff: Robyn Barhydt, Shannon Kern, Mary Kilpatrick, Barbara Haun, Lynn Farrar, and Missy Sturgill
From left to right: Lou Black, Makalia McGee, Kim Carver, Nicole Britt, Elizabeth Epperson, and Christy Younce-Rach
Crowd enjoying free gifts and refreshments
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H.O.P.E. DOMTAR CABINS
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Derby Party PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY SAVANNA MCDAVID Ed Diminick and Scott Koenig
Cathy and Judd Teague with Mike Hudson and Amy Margaret McCall
Derby Day calls for big hats and delicious drinks and of course derby parties. Help Our Potential Evolve, or H.O.P.E., of Kingsport held their second annual derby party as one of the organization’s biggest fund raisers. People from all over Kingsport attended the after derby party. Heavy hors’ devours and beautiful decorations filled the Domtar cabin. Guests were able to bid on silent auction items including one of a kind paintings, golf trips and a spa day. The DJ kept the party going all night with dance music. Toward the end of the evening all the ladies were able to enter into a hat contest and the men were able to enter into a bow tie contest. Women were able to walk the dance floor to show off their hats and then the men to show their bow ties. The two winners won gifts from some of the event sponsors. H.O.P.E. helps youth learn the importance of education and other things. To learn more about H.O.P.E. or how you can help visit their Facebook page.
Forrest and Melissa McNair, Laura and Thomas Click, Elizabeth and Ed Diminick, Ross and Jennifer Walker, and Amanda and Andy Eidson
Tommy Wells and Holly Churchman
Elizabeth Karst, Elli Walker, and Alli McNair
HOPE board: Linda Brittenham, Ron Carson; Vice President, Lara Moore Potter, Veronica Camp, Selina Hall; Treasurer, Chaiba Bloomer; President, Stella Robinette; Founder, Ross Walker; Event Chair, Bob Haywood
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SEEN IN ABINGDON
ALFRESCO LIFESTYLES
Big Green Egg Day STORY BY REBECCA NELMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGELA AND MICKEY BAKER
Being a “GOLD” Big Green Egg Dealer means just that....a Dealer is truly treated like gold! Alfresco Lifestyles has been a Gold Dealer for the past 5 years and they make sure this status trickles down to their customers. At least two to three times a year, Alfresco Lifestyles celebrates with a Customer Appreciation Day cooking on 3-4 Big Green Eggs in their outdoor showroom. They have 2-3 Chefs cooking all day with a variety of foods....all cooked on The Big Green Egg. On April 28th, Alfresco Lifestyles entertained over 120 customers and served up the following: 20 lbs Chicken Wings (featuring a variety of Rubs), 10 lbs Pulled Pork BBQ, 9 Large Racks Baby Back Ribs, 15 - Homemade Pizza’s, 5 - Dessert Pizza’s with blueberries and raspberries, Oysters Rockerfeller, Salmon, and Cinnamon Rolls
Becky Nelms, Janie Workman, Rebecca Elswick, and Josie Hall Blankenship
Everyone enjoys the food and talking with the chefs learning new techniques for cooking on “The Egg” At each event, Alfresco Lifestyles and the chefs make sure they always introduce something new. Providing giveaways and door prizes throughout the day, making sure everyone gets a chance to be a “winner”. At this event, they demonstrated a “Burn” on the Mini Max Big Green Egg and then raffled it off as well as raffling off a Mini Big Green Egg. All the winners were extremely happy! “We look forward to these events and especially seeing the smiles on our customers faces and then hearing from so many customers that always learn some new tricks for cooking on their Egg” (Becky) The Big Green Egg....The Ultimate Cooking Experience with a Lifetime Warranty. Buy It Once, Love It For a Lifetime!
Tommy Nelms, Mick Foran, Bryon Helton, and Tom Messer
Pat Foran and Kendle Foran
Family and Big Green Egg friends
Becky Nelms with Earl and Janie Workman Todd Creasy and Ron Mink
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Dr. Alison Whitman and Jaylyn Whitman
ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
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Off Broad Street Players
Murder on the
Motor-Coach Hosted by Contact-Concern PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
Sandy and Mac Lowe with Jerry and Nancy Lukach
The air was full of intrigue, suspense and laughter Saturday, April 23rd at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church as the Off-Broad Street Players performed Murder on the Motor-Coach Tour, all to raise funds to support 2-1-1 ContactConcern. This fun, entertaining evening benefitted a great cause. ContactConcern is available to support anyone in need or in crisis in our area with information and referrals to hundreds of community services. All of their services are free and confidential. Contact-Concern connects people in need to with local organizations that provide services such as food, financial assistance for utilities, free or low-cost medical care, area shelters, counseling services, support groups, battered women’s shelters and addiction prevention or treatment. Contact-Concern also provides daily reassurance calls for the elderly and homebound residents of Northeast Tennessee. Contact-Concern can be reached just by dialing 2-1-1, or at 423-246-2273.
Rod Walsh, Michelle and George Williams, with Jackie and Brian Potter Dave Light, Patty Fletcher, and Jennifer Light
Murder on the Motor-Coach
Texas Roadhouse Mgr David Batts with Holly Lowe, Scott and Marti Maxwell, and Ashley Mullins
Off Broad Street Players: Lynn Sorrell, Tim Corbitt, Janet Cox, Judy Womack, Pamela Ward, Vickie Harris, Joe Mason, and Bob Hathaway
Author Patty Fletcher and service dog, Campbell
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SEEN IN KINGSPORT
HIBBERT-DAVIS URBAN BREWS
Hibbert-Davis
Urban Brews
Grand Opening STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
May 5th, Cinco De Mayo marked the Grand Opening of the new Hibbert- Davis Urban Brews Coffee Shop in Downtown Kingsport. With new owners, John and Angela Vachon of Urban Synergy and The Banq at the helm, Hibbert- Davis Urban Brews aka HDUB is headed towards a new destination called “Third Spot”. With home and family being first and the work being the second, “Third Spot” is a destination for Urbanites to gather and recharge. The “brews” now include local beers in addition to coffe and tea and there’s a new “Urban Bites” menu to check out including spinach and feta croissants, organic ice ceam with waffles and chicken salad. Now open until 8pm Monday - Thursday and 10pm Friday and Saturday, there’s plenty of time to stop in for a beer, lavender tea, pie , or whatever you’re craving. Added tables and conference space allow for meetings , hanging out with your friends, family or just your laptop if you need to get some work done. Go see them at 247 Broad Street. You’ll be so glad you did.
SEEN IN BRISTOL
Michelle Mitchell, along with manager Brittani Clifton, and owners John and Angela Vachon helped cut the ribbon with Mayor John Clark, Darrell Duncan, and DKA President Sherri Mosley
THE BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM
Artistic Excellence
Competition PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
High School students from upper East Tennessee and Southwestern Virginia recently participated in the Artistic Excellence Competition (ArtEx). A reception was held at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum on Sunday, April 17th. Students were honored with monetary awards and all work was on exhibit for viewing by the artists’ families, friends, and ArtEx sponsors. Catherine Elliott of “Catering by Catherine” catered the reception.
Cheryl Wedel, Jessica Turner, Val Lyle, and Barbara Niemczak
Berkeley Richard (Virginia HS), Best in Show
ArtEx is a juried competition. The juror was Hank T. Foreman of Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. ArtEx is a project of Art in Public Places that manages the project and raises all funds for its operation. The cochairs of ArtEx 2016 are Jessica Turner and Val Lyle. The award for Best in Show went to Berkeley Richard of Virginia High School. Congratulations to all the amazing artists who participated in the competition and a huge thank you to the businesses and citizens of Sullivan and Washington Counties that sponsor this event every year.
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Area Art Teachers: Shannon Piek (SNHS), Donnie Quales (THS), Heidi Anderson (AHS), Debra Brooks (SEHS), Holly Czoka (SSHS)
Lilly Perkins (Tennessee HS)
Catherine Elliott, Caterer
THE RIDGEFIELDS COUNTRY CLUB
SEEN IN KINGSPORT
Annual Kingsport Chamber of Commerce
Golf Scramble STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CAROLYN KESTNER
The Ridgefields Country Club was graced with a gorgeous, sunny day Monday May 9th for the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Golf Scramble. In it’s 24th year, the Scramble gives players/ Chamber members and their guests a chance to spend their work day on the greens, as well as raise money for the Kingsport Chamber, Keep Kingsport Beautiful and Leadership Kingsport programs. With a hugely successful turnout, the teams had 2 tee off times. One in the morning and a second in early afternoon. Lunch provided from Texas Roadhouse and Andy the Armadillo gave players from both tee offs a chance to mingle and network on their way on and off the course. The top three places in each round were awarded with hole competitions including prizes for longest drive, most accurate drive, closest to the pin and any holes-in-one. The Club at Ridgefields is located at 2320 Pendragon Rd in Kingsport.
Steve Mclellan, Tim Broyles, Matt Lewis, and Jimmy Orton
Food City and Frito Lay players Doug Lampson, Mark Hubbard, Tommy Stanley, and Mike Meck
Hunter Smith and Davis team John Collins, Mark Desauer, Ed Combs, and Mike Forrester
Tri-Summit Bank’s Shannon Morelock
Andy the Armadillo with the Texas Roadhouse crew
The Club at Ridgefields owner Stan Pace Ed Dobbs from Burger King with On Q Financial’s Bill Hardin and Judy Kresge of Kresge’s Krew
Ben Garrison and Paul Overbay
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MAPLE LANE FARM
SEEN IN JOHNSON CITY
9th Annual
Night of Hope
Benefitting JDRF STORY BY LARRY ENGLAND | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SALLY DODSON
Nearly 200 guests came out to support the 9th Annual “A Night of Hope” helping to raise over $20,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Organizers, Larry & Debbie England of Johnson City have been involved with JDRF since their son Russell was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in May of 2006. Larry currently serves as the Board President for the East TN Chapter of JDRF.
Russell, Debbie and Larry England
Again this year the theme for the event was Cinco de Mayo and with everything from the venue, food, beverages, and entertainment donated along with several silent and live auction items, 100% of the funds raised go directly to JDRF for research to turn Type ONE in Type NONE. “It was very humbling”, says the England’s,” to see the number of people who attend this event year after year, many of whom have family members with T1D. One family in particular, Jeff & Virginia Bieber of Johnson City, who became involved last year, helped with auction items and ticket sales. Their son William was diagnosed three years ago at the age of 5 and Virginia also serves on the JDRF Board. “This event”, England continued, “has become the largest family fundraiser for the East TN JDRF Chapter which includes Knoxville and Chattanooga and we are very thankful for the communities continued support.”
Linda Bowman O’Dell, David Meredith, and Stephanie Dickerson
JDRF is the leading global organization funding T1D research. Millions of people around the world live with type 1 diabetes (T1D); a lifethreatening autoimmune disease that strikes both children and adults. There is no way to prevent it, and at present, no cure. JDRF works every day to change this by amassing grassroots support, deep scientific knowledge and strong industry and academic partnerships to fund research. DJ Alan Dodson provided entertainment and Master of Ceremonies for the 7th consecutive year.
Amy Lynn and Jon Henry
Duane King bought 2 empty tequila bottles for $150 to support JDRF
Kathie and Mitch Cornett
Nathan and Jerry Montgomery, with Jennifer Cross-Charles
Food City representatives
Chikion Chan and Brandy McKinney
Stephen and Jessica Rest, Owners Red Carpet Event Photos
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VIPSEEN EXCLUSIVE COMMUNITY COVERAGE JULY 2016
Seen on the Scene COVERED BRIDGE 5K RUN AND 3K WALK COMING UP JUNE 11 TO BENEFIT SSH FOUNDATION; REGISTRATION OPEN ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. – The annual Covered Bridge 5K Run and 3K Walk benefiting Sycamore Shoals Hospital Foundation took place on Saturday, June 11, at 8 a.m. with both races finishing at the same location after crossing through the historic covered bridge. All proceeds from the race benefit the SSH Foundation, which helps to fund needed equipment, supplies and programs for Sycamore Shoals Hospital. Last year 285 people participated in the 5K run and 3K walk, and $6,100 was raised for patient needs at SSH. After the race, awards were given at the Covered Bridge Festival stage. The race was sponsored by Sycamore Shoals Hospital, CenturyLink, Citi, and Watauga Lakeshore Marina and Resort. For more information, contact Sharon Sheppard at 423-542-1338 or at sheppardsf@msha.com.
BRISTOL PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HAVE GRAND OPENING OF NEW TEEN SPACE Bristol, TN/VA: The Bristol Public Library has planned a new space for our Teen activities program for almost five years. On June 3, 2016, at 2:30 PM the ribbon cutting for this space finally took place. The space accommodates teen book clubs and other activities planned for the Teen patrons of the BPL. The Teen Librarian’s office is located in the space, and she will be available to help patrons find books in the Young Adult book collection. The book collection can be accessed even if an activity is happening in other parts of the space. By using highly adaptable furnishings and colorful design, the space can be set up for large crowds, small discussion groups, or a quiet place to read. There is a teen study room and the Young Adult book collection is conveniently located as part of the area. The large, versatile space for teens is something few libraries can claim. The Bristol Public Library is one of the first libraries in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia to provide a vital part of the community with a large space that’s creative, bright, and dedicated to teens. Much like the Children’s Library at the BPL, the Teen space is a secured area.
DOBYNS-BENNETT HIGH SCHOOL NAMES HEAD GOLF COACH KINGSPORT, Tenn. – Kingsport City Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Holt as the head coach for the boys’ golf program at DobynsBennett High School, effective immediately. “Michael brings a great deal of experience as a coach into this position,” said Dobyns-Bennett Principal Dr. Chris Hampton. “This is a great opportunity for our school, our student athletes, and for Michael to further develop his leadership skills.” Holt is a native of Kingsport and a 2001 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett, where he received the Frederick Joseph Maloy Memorial Scholarship and was a member of the football team. He began playing golf at the age of eight, and has played both competitively and recreationally throughout elementary, middle, and high school, as well as into adulthood. Holt played golf competitively on the Tennessee Golf Association Vince Gill Junior Tour (now known as the TGA Sneds Junior Tour) from 1994-1998 and has participated in many local and charity golf tournaments throughout college, as well as since returning to Kingsport. That experience has helped establish relationships with several respected local golf professionals, as well as others in the golf community. He has been teaching English at Dobyns-Bennett and has been an assistant football coach for the last ten years. Prior to his time at D-B, he taught at Fulton High School in Knoxville for one year. Holt was recently selected to be part of the state’s Range Finding Committee for TNReady Assessments this summer from June 6-8. Holt earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, with a major in Writing and Rhetoric, and a Masters of Arts degree, with a major in English, from the University of Tennessee. He is a member of First Presbyterian Church of Kingsport and he and his wife Katie, reside in Kingsport.
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THREE BUCS QUALIFY FOR NCAA EAST PRELIMS Michael Williams, Kyra Atkins and Brett Squibbs will head to Jacksonville next weekend for the NCAA East Prelims On Friday May 20, 2016 it was announced that three members of the ETSU Track and Field program have qualified to compete in the NCAA East Preliminaries in Jacksonville, Fla. Junior Michael Williams (Mt.Laurel, N.J.) for the third straight year has qualified for the NCAA East Prelims in the 400-meter hurdles. Williams was the Southern Conference Champion in the 400mH for the second straight year and had the 35th fastest time in the NCAA in the event. Joining Williams on the men’s side is junior Brett Squibbs (Rock Hill, S.C.) who had the 31st highest mark in the NCAA East Region in the pole vault at 16› 9.25» (5.11 meters). Squibbs was runner-up at the SoCon Championships last weekend in the pole vault despite recording the seasonal best mark. On the women›s side the lone qualifier is freshman Kyra Atkins (Greer, S.C) in the 100-meter hurdles. Atkins had a time of 13.51 and ranked 29th in the NCAA East Region. Earlier this week, Atkins was named SoCon Outdoor Track and Field Freshman of the Year. The Greer, S.C., native also earned freshman of the Year honors during the indoor season. The NCAA East Preliminaries were May 26-28 in Jacksonville, Fla. and was hosted by the University of North Florida at Hodges Stadium. The top 12 times from each event will advance to the NCAA Championships in Eugene,Ore., June 8-11. For more information on Buccaneer Track and field, visit ETSUBucs.com and click on the track and field pages. ETSU PUBLIC HEALTH FACULTY MEMBER CHOSEN TO SERVE ON STATE BOARD JOHNSON CITY – Jennifer Hunt, clinical instructor and coordinator of the Health Care Management Certificate in the Department of Health Services Management and Policy in East Tennessee State University’s College of Public Health, was selected to join the 2016 Tennessee Center for Performance Excellence (TNCPE) Board of Examiners. TNCPE’s mission is “to drive organizational excellence in Tennessee” using the Baldrige Excellence awards program. TNCPE examiners play a critical role in helping Tennessee hospitals, schools, manufacturers, small businesses, government agencies, and other organizations improve their results, empower their workforces, and achieve best-in-class results. In this role, Hunt will participate in the evaluation process of TNCPE applicant organizations and provide them with feedback to enhance their performance. After attending the training workshop in Knoxville, Hunt will leverage her professional expertise and training in conducting organizational assessments and providing feedback. Additionally, she will bring her skills developed during training and the assessment process back to her faculty role to benefit her students and department.
Seen on the Scene GO CRAZY FOR LOCAL CHARITIES WITH CRAZY 8S “RACE TO RAISE” CHARITIES The 2016 Crazy 8s Road Race, coming up in Kingsport on July 16th as part of Kingsport’s Fun Fest, is going crazy for local charities once again by announcing the Crazy 8s “Race to Raise” Charities. Crazy 8s will give back a total of $6000 to the local community through the following official Crazy 8s “Race To Raise” Charities: The American Cancer Society of Northeast Tennessee/The Sullivan County Humane Society/The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport/ Mingo County Diabetes Coalition/Mountain Home VA Medical Center/The Dobyns-Bennett High School Band. The Crazy 8s “Race To Raise” Charities will promote and recruit people to sign up for either the Crazy 8s 8K Run, 3K Moon Walk, or Little 8s Youth Runs on their behalf. There is no fundraising or pledging required, people simply sign up for the race and choose the charity of their choice. Based on the number of registrants the Crazy 8s race will give back to the “Race To Raise”. The 2016 Crazy 8s race is the 26th anniversary of the event. Presenting sponsors are Indian Path Medical Center & Niswonger Children’s Hospital. Crazy 8s is managed by We Run Events and is one of the premier events in Kingsport’s Fun Fest. Hank Brown & Natalie Whitlock, Crazy 8s 8K Event Directors, 423-963-1045, hank@crazy8s.org ETSU STUDENT WINS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS IN CYCLING JOHNSON CITY – A student from East Tennessee State University recently won three first place titles at the USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships, held May 13-15. Nolan Tankersley, of Erwin, took first place in the road race and criterium events as well as the overall (omnium) championship in the Division II category. Tankersley is a junior at ETSU studying management and marketing and is a member of the university’s Cycling Club. He has been cycling for the past seven years and has raced in other collegiateand professional-level competitions across the United States. This is his first championship win. “The collegiate season has now ended, so for the summer I will race with the Lupus Racing Team and also compete in the Under 23 National Championship,” Tankersley said. “In the fall my training will involve mountain biking and cyclo-cross, which is a combination of mountain and road biking.” Tankersley says he trains seven days per week. HANNAH CASEY NAMED SANTA TRAIN SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT KINGSPORT, Tenn. - The Kingsport Chamber has announced Hannah Casey from East Ridge High School in Lick Creek, Kentucky is the 2016 recipient of the Santa Train Scholarship, sponsored by Domtar. The Santa Train Scholarship was established in 1989 and is a four-year, $5,000 scholarship ($1,250 each year) awarded annually to a graduating high school senior along the 110-mile Santa Train route. There are 23 high schools along the route, which stretches from Elkhorn City, Ky., through Virginia and into Kingsport. Students apply for the scholarship and the Santa Train scholarship committee selects the winner. The winner is chosen based on grade point average, extracurricular activities, a counselor or teacher’s recommendation and financial need. Casey is currently at the top of her class with a 4.0 GPA. She plans on attending Asbury University in Wilmore, Kentucky to major in Elementary Education. Casey has been involved in many extracurricular activities and completed countless hours of community service. Some of these include PCYLC Full Council, Kiwanis Fall Festival, Coats for Kids, Headstart Thanksgiving Boxes, Spread the Love Campaign, Christmas Toy Giveaway, and many more. For seventy-four years now, the Santa Train has been running through Appalachia delivering 15 tons of new toys, clothes, candy and gifts to thousands of children in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. With a 110- mile route and 14 stops, the Santa Train touches many lives and provides memories that will last forever. The Santa Train is sponsored by CSX, Dignity U Wear, Food City and the Kingsport Chamber.
HICKSON NAMED NEW CEO OF JOHNSTON MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, MOUNTAIN STATES’ NORTHEAST MARKET ABINGDON, Va. – With almost 20 years of experience in health care, Stan Hickson has been named president and chief executive officer of Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon. He will also oversee the northeast market of Mountain States Health Alliance, which includes Smyth County Community Hospital in Marion and Russell County Medical Center in Lebanon. Hickson will replace Sean McMurray, who is pursuing fulltime ministry in Colorado beginning this summer. Hickson currently serves as the president of Northside Medical Center and executive vice president of Columbus Regional Health in Columbus, Ga. During his time there, he’s been responsible for many outstanding accomplishments, including successfully integrating new service lines into the hospital, adding several new surgeons and consistently maintaining patient satisfaction in the top 10 percent nationally, according to the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. Before joining Northside Medical Center, Hickson held several other health care leadership positions. He was the chief operating officer and executive vice president for Palmetto Health Richland in Columbia, S.C., and led other health care facilities across the Southeast. Hickson earned his bachelor’s degree in science from College of Charleston in Charleston, S.C., and his master’s degree in health administration from Medical University of South Carolina, which is also in Charleston, S.C. He’s board certified in healthcare management as a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Hickson also served on Leadership Columbus, Carolina Sunshine for Children and Leadership Columbia. He begins his new role in July. ETSU’S GATTON COLLEGE OF PHARMACY GRADUATES 76 IN COMMENCEMENT EXERCISE Event marks last one with Dr. Larry Calhoun as dean JOHNSON CITY – 76 students recently graduated, making up the Class of 2016 in the Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy at East Tennessee State University. During his address, Dean Larry Calhoun congratulated the new pharmacists and thanked them for choosing ETSU. “These students have made the Gatton College of Pharmacy their own and they are leaving it a better college than what it was when they came in,” Calhoun said. “You have left your mark here.” Class President Tiffany Ratliff, in her speech, noted how quickly four years have gone by. “A lot can be accomplished in four years,” she said. “We’ve finally reached the pinnacle of all our studies. Hard work really does pay off and today is proof of that.” For Joshua Jones, of Ocala, Florida, the ceremony served as a true symbol of both and ending and a new beginning. Following graduation, Jones will assume a pharmacy residency position at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, North Carolina. As the seventh graduating class at Gatton, the Class of 2016 has the most students going on to post-graduate training of any class in the pharmacy school’s history. The graduating class also boasted the most number of students achieving a 4.0 GPA. Six graduates – Erika Bowen, Shea Davis, Aaron Garst, Kelley Stafford, Jordan Summers and Stephen Widing – were recognized with the Valedictorian Award for garnering perfect GPAs during their time at Gatton. The commencement marked the final one for Calhoun as dean of the school. The founding dean of the college announced last fall that he would be stepping down from the role at the end of this academic year.
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SEEN IN KINGSPORT
MEADOWVIEW MARRIOTT CONFERENCE CENTER
Senator Lamar Alexander
Luncheon PHOTOGRAPHY AND STORY BY LINDA COFFEY
A Regional Chamber Luncheon with Senator Lamar Alexander was held on Wednesday, May 4th at MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort & Convention Center in Kingsport.
Mayor Venable, Senator Alexander, and Mayor Clark
Senator Alexander was presented with a “Spirit of Enterprise Award” from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Attendees of the event enjoyed a delicious luncheon while Senator Alexander presented a federal update and spoke of matters that held the interest of the crowd. He answered questions from the group and received a standing ovation. The event was hosted by the Chamber of Commerce’s of Bristol, Kingsport & Johnson City. Sponsors for the event included: Appalachian Community Federal Credit Union, Appalachian Power, AT&T, Domtar, Eastman, HealthSouth, Mountain States Health Alliance, Premier Pharmacy, and Wellmont Health System.
Senator Alexander with representatives of area Chambers of Commerce
Mayor John Clark and friends
Nicole Auston (organizer of the event) with Senator Alexander Clark Thomason and Miles Burdine
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Congressman Phil Roe
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