Community Calendar 031525

MARCH 13

BRISTOL MUSIC CLUB MEETING—The Bristol Music Club will meet on Thursday, March 13, 10 a.m., at State Street United Methodist Church. The public is invited to the program by Sandra Parker, Celtic harpist, guitarist, and singer of music from Ireland and Scotland.

FILM SCREENING OF ‘THE INDELIBLE APPALACHIANS’—A screening of the documentary film “The Indelible Appalachians,” originally scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20, in Kingsport, has been postponed due to inclement weather. The event, sponsored by Eastman and its Connect employee resource group (ERG) for African Americans and their allies as part of Black History Month, will now be held March 13 from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Toy F. Reid Auditorium, 400 S. Wilcox Drive, Kingsport, Tenn. “The Indelible Appalachians” is a powerful and poignant documentary that illuminates the rich and often overlooked experiences of Black Appalachians. This film takes viewers on an evocative journey through the mountains and valleys of Appalachia, capturing the stories of individuals dedicated to preserving their history, embracing their present, and shaping their future.

FREE COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR—Wise, VA. Health Wagon, in collaboration with East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Health’s James H. Quillen College of Medicine, is proud to announce upcoming Free Community Health Fairs aimed at providing essential healthcare services to individuals and families in need. The event will take place on Thursday, March 13, at the Smiddy Clinic in Wise and Friday, March 14, at Sr. Bernie Kenny Clinic in Clintwood. Times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Open to the public, the health fair will offer a vast array of free health care services. Some of the many services will include screenings, wellness exams, diagnostic testing such as ultrasounds and X-rays, lab work, immunizations, dental care (3/13 only by appt), eye screenings, hearing testing, hearing aids (3/13 only), Pap test, mammograms (3/14 only), oral cancer screenings, and consultations with healthcare professionals. In addition, a pharmacist will be available to discuss medication needs. Participants will also have access to free food boxes, clothing, toiletries, health education resources, chronic disease management support, and information on community programs designed to promote overall well-being. Dr. Joe Smiddy, pulmonologist, will be offering chest X-ray, breathing testing and smoking cessation guidance and medications to help smokers quit smoking. This event is free and open to all individuals, with no insurance required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and take advantage of the variety of services available. For more information, please contact the Health Wagon at 276-328-8850 or visit https://thehealthwagon.org.

‘LAND, AIR & SEA’: TUSCULUM UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY BAND FREE CONCERT—Greeneville, TN. The Tusculum University Community Band will perform the final concert of the band’s season, called “Land, Air, & Sea,” on Tuesday, May 13, at 7 p.m. The event will be held at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center and will be free. For more information, email cchambers@tusculum.edu or visit www.tusculum.edu.

SABINE HILL GUIDED TOURS—March 13 & 18, 1:30 p.m. at Sabine Hill State Historic Site, 2328 West G St., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: $10 adult, $8 seniors 65+, $8 veterans & active military, $5 ages 17 & under. Maximum of 12 participants per tour. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Enjoy a guided tour of this stately home built by Mary Patton Taylor, widow of Brigadier General Nathaniel Taylor. The site has been described as one of the finest examples of Federal architecture in the State of Tennessee. Take in the colorful and architecturally detailed interior while learning about the influential Taylor family who called Sabine Hill home in the early 19th century. Please note, only portable toilet facilities are available at this time. Accessibility to the home includes steps and an interior staircase. Tour lasts approximately one hour. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

SILENT BOOK CLUB—March 13, 5:45-7 p.m., at The Book Cellar, 112 Court St., Abingdon, VA. Free. Join us for Silent Book Club on the second Thursday of each month. Bring your current read, grab a drink, & make some friends. Let’s carve out some time for ourselves and make space for reading.

THIRSTY THURSDAY: $5 FILMS—The Lincoln Theatre’s Thirsty Thursdays continue with “Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery” (1997) on March 13 at 7 p.m. at The Lincoln Theatre, 117 E. Main St., Marion, VA 24354. This parody of 1960s spy films directed by Jay Roach and featuring Mike Myers is a totally “groovy” time! The Lincoln Theatre encourages patrons to come in their best hippie or mod looks. The doors will open at 6 p.m. with happy hour specials up at their bar. Tickets for the film can be purchased online or at the door for $5. Also, check out the full 2025 calendar of events and discover a variety of Friday and Thursday night film screenings throughout the year. For more information and event tickets, visit www.thelincoln.org or call 276-783-6092.

WYTHE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD PUBLIC HEARING—In compliance with §22.1 – 92 of the Code of Virginia, the Wythe County School Board will conduct a public hearing to provide interested persons an opportunity for input into the formulation of the 2026 Fiscal Year budget. A public hearing will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 6, at Wythe County School Board Office, 1570 West Reservoir Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382. A second public hearing will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, at Wythe County School Board Office, 1570 West Reservoir Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382. By order of Dr. G. Wesley Poole, Division Superintendent.

MARCH 14

ATTACHED AT THE HEART PARENTING PROGRAM INSTRUCTOR TRAINING—Become a parenting program instructor with the Attached at the Heart Parenting Education Program. Apply now at https://forms.gle/t65AtEdVpYSjiowJA or visit www.appalachianpromise.org for the link. The four-day training will be held online Feb. 21 & 28 and March 7 & 14, 1-4 p.m. Limited full and partial scholarships are available for the Appalachian Promise Alliance service area. The program prepares participants to become Attached at the Heart Parent Educator Instructors with all the information needed to begin teaching parenting classes within their communities. Past candidates have included mental health professionals, social workers, childbirth and lactation educators, community health workers, doulas and family life educators. For more information, visit www.AppalachianPromise.org or contact program coordinator Samantha Gray at samantha@appalachianpromise.org.

EMMANUEL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL OF ABINGDON BBQ PLATE FUNDRAISER—Emmanuel Christian School of Abingdon is sponsoring a BBQ Plate Fundraiser on Friday, March 14. Meals are $10/plate, which consist of BBQ, green beans, cole slaw, and your choice of either mac n cheese or potato salad. A roll or sandwich bun is included for free. Sodas are available for 75 cents, and a gallon of sweet tea is available for $5. Pick-up for meals is 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at 19383 Lee Highway in Abingdon, Virginia. Local delivery is available. For more information, call 276-628-7835.

FREE COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR—Clintwood, VA. Health Wagon, in collaboration with East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Health’s James H. Quillen College of Medicine, is proud to announce upcoming Free Community Health Fairs aimed at providing essential healthcare services to individuals and families in need. The event will take place on Thursday, March 13, at the Smiddy Clinic in Wise and Friday, March 14, at Sr. Bernie Kenny Clinic in Clintwood. Times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Open to the public, the health fair will offer a vast array of free health care services. Some of the many services will include screenings, wellness exams, diagnostic testing such as ultrasounds and X-rays, lab work, immunizations, dental care (3/13 only by appt), eye screenings, hearing testing, hearing aids (3/13 only), Pap test, mammograms (3/14 only), oral cancer screenings, and consultations with healthcare professionals. In addition, a pharmacist will be available to discuss medication needs. Participants will also have access to free food boxes, clothing, toiletries, health education resources, chronic disease management support, and information on community programs designed to promote overall well-being. Dr. Joe Smiddy, pulmonologist, will be offering chest X-ray, breathing testing and smoking cessation guidance and medications to help smokers quit smoking. This event is free and open to all individuals, with no insurance required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and take advantage of the variety of services available. For more information, please contact the Health Wagon at 276-328-8850 or visit https://thehealthwagon.org.

KINGSPORT SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON MAJOR RECREATION PROJECTS—The City of Kingsport is hosting two public meetings this month to receive input from the community about two major projects taking place at Bays Mountain Park and Brickyard Park. Kingsport is applying for a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. LWCF grants help protect and enhance parks, trails, and outdoor spaces for public enjoyment. A requirement for the grant is for the city to hold a series of public meetings, which will be held on March 10 at 6 p.m. at the Farmstead Museum at Bays Mountain Park and on March 14 at 1 p.m. at City Hall (415 Broad Street). Snacks will be provided. The public is encouraged to attend these meetings and provide input on two major projects taking place at Bays Mountain Park and Brickyard Park. The Bays Mountain Park project will focus constructing a new ADA path leading to the Pavilion/Barge area and a new ADA accessible bobcat habitat. The Brickyard Park project focuses on turfing infields at the baseball/softball complex, developing a pedal park and constructing a multipurpose space beside the Miracle/Bluecross Blueshield playground, with ADA parking and sidewalks. For more information, visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

RESILIENCE, RECOVERY AND RENEWAL: 2025 SPRING CONFERENCE—Asheville, NC. Organic Growers School (OGS) proudly announces the 2025 Spring Conference, hosted March 14-16 at Mars Hill University (MHU). This year’s theme, Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal, focuses on rebuilding stronger, more sustainable communities following Hurricane Helene while equipping attendees with tools and knowledge for long-term resilience. Explore three tailored tracks focusing on urgent topics related to rebuilding. These include solar and other off-grid systems, mutual aid, resilience practices such as cooking and food preservation, and understanding water and soil contamination, among others. OGS will continue to offer a familiar core curriculum for gardeners, farmers, and those interested in sustainable living. It will feature over 32 workshops across eight tracks, including Gardening, Soils, and Mushrooms. Expert Speakers: Learn from leading voices like Dan Brisebois (The Seed Farmer), Pam Dawling (Year-Round Market Farming), and Chris Smith & Chris Keeve (The Collard Atlas). Online registration is open now. For more details and to secure your discounted tickets, visit www.organicgrowersschool.org/spring-conference.

SHENANIGANS: A MUSICAL COMEDY REVUE—Kingsport, TN. The cast of Shenanigans 2025 will be celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. The crew is up to their crazy antics in this frolicsome musical comedy review at LampLight Theatre in Downtown Kingsport, Tennessee. Laugh away the winter blues, and usher in the spring with some knee-slappin’ comedy as talented performers pay tribute to 20 of their favorite Broadway shows. This show-stopping production will be held on weekends, Feb. 28 through March 16, with evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. Saturday matinees will be held at 2 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Doors will open one hour prior to performances. The cost of admission for all performances is $15 for Adults, $13 for Seniors and Groups, $10 for Students. FREE admission for children 5 and under. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling the LampLight box office at (423) 343-1766, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at www.lamplighttheatre.com.

MARCH 15

AG IN ART: BASKET WILLOW PLANTING & WILLOW BASKET WEAVING WORKSHOPS—Johnson City, TN. The Appalachian Resource Conservation and Development Council (ARCD) has announced the 2025 Ag in Art Series which will feature land based craft workshops. These workshops are structured so that first there is a workshop opportunity for growers, farmers, and homesteaders to learn about how to grow the craft materials. Following, there is a craft workshop for folks who are interested in learning the craft. A Basket Willow Planting Workshop will be held March 15 from 11 a.m.-noon, $15 per person. This will be followed by a Willow Basket Weaving Workshop on March 15 & 16 from 1-5 p.m., $200 per person. For more information and to register, visit arcd.org/AgInArt

BAYS MOUNTAIN PARK STARWATCH PROGRAM—Bays Mountain Park’s night sky observing sessions, StarWatch, has returned for the spring season. StarWatch sessions allow the public to enjoy the splendor of the night sky at Bays Mountain Park’s observatories. If the weather is good, attendees can typically see star clusters, nebulous gas clouds, colorful multiple-star systems, distant galaxies and the Moon and planets. If the weather is poor, the park will have an alternate activity in the planetarium theater. StarWatch sessions will be held on March 1 and 8 at 7 p.m., March 15, 22, and 29 at 8 p.m. and April 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 8:30 p.m. Note — please arrive at the beginning of the program so you can find your way to the observatories. Be sure to dress for temperatures at least 20 degrees cooler than expected and do not use white light flashlights at the observing grounds. This is a free event and does not require registration. StarWatch is hosted by the Bays Mountain Astronomy Club & Bays Mountain Planetarium. For more information, visit www.baysmountain.com or call 423-229-9447.

‘LESSONS FROM SHAKESPEARE: HOW TO AVOID A PERSONAL TRAGEDY’—Theatre Bristol with River's Way present "Lessons from Shakespeare: How to Avoid a Personal Tragedy" on March 15 at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and March 16 at 2:30 p.m. at the ARTspace, 506 State Street. Tickets are available online at TheatreBristol.org/tickets. "Lessons from Shakespeare: How to Avoid a Personal Tragedy" is a production that features the highlights of the works of William Shakespeare as adapted by Dottie Havlik. It was created especially for the special needs teens and young adults with River's Way and Theatre Bristol actors. River's Way, led by Executive Director Matt Kyle, is an organization dedicated to the positive and productive involvement of young people with disabilities in our community. Tickets are $5 and will be available online and, pending available seating, at the door 30 minutes prior to showtime. Seating is general admission and for any special accommodations, please call or email the Theatre. Show information is also available online at www.TheatreBristol.org or by calling the message line at 423-212-3625. For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-212-3625, or email info@theatrebristol.org.

OVERMOUNTAIN WEAVERS GUILD FIBERS SHOW AND SALE—Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, March 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: Free. Don’t miss this great opportunity to visit with some of the best fiber artists of our region! If you love fibers, this is the place for you! Demonstrations include weaving, spinning, knitting, natural dyeing, and more. A variety of handmade items will be offered for sale. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

RESILIENCE, RECOVERY AND RENEWAL: 2025 SPRING CONFERENCE—Asheville, NC. Organic Growers School (OGS) proudly announces the 2025 Spring Conference, hosted March 14-16 at Mars Hill University (MHU). This year’s theme, Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal, focuses on rebuilding stronger, more sustainable communities following Hurricane Helene while equipping attendees with tools and knowledge for long-term resilience. Explore three tailored tracks focusing on urgent topics related to rebuilding. These include solar and other off-grid systems, mutual aid, resilience practices such as cooking and food preservation, and understanding water and soil contamination, among others. OGS will continue to offer a familiar core curriculum for gardeners, farmers, and those interested in sustainable living. It will feature over 32 workshops across eight tracks, including Gardening, Soils, and Mushrooms. Expert Speakers: Learn from leading voices like Dan Brisebois (The Seed Farmer), Pam Dawling (Year-Round Market Farming), and Chris Smith & Chris Keeve (The Collard Atlas). Online registration is open now. For more details and to secure your discounted tickets, visit www.organicgrowersschool.org/spring-conference.

SYMPHONY OF THE MOUNTAINS ‘NEXT GENERATION: A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES’—Kingsport, TN. Symphony of the Mountains presentS "Next Generation: A Night at the Movies" on Saturday, March 15, at 7 p.m. at Eastman’s Toy F. Reid Center in Kingsport, TN. This spectacular concert will unite over 50 of the region’s most talented young musicians with Symphony of the Mountains professionals for an unforgettable evening of cinematic favorites. Audiences will be transported through the magic of film music as performers bring to life beloved scores from Star Wars, Barbie, Avengers and more. The Voices of the Mountains and the Daniel Boone High School Choir will join the performance, bringing an extra dimension of vocal brilliance to this unforgettable night. To celebrate the cinematic theme, a costume contest will be held for both youth and adults, so dress as your favorite movie characters for a chance to win fun prizes! Costume contest registration will begin at 6 p.m. in the lobby. Tickets are only $25. (Students and children are free!) For more information or to reserve tickets, visit MySOTM.org or call (423) 392-8423.

THE ULTIMATE GARTH BROOKS TRIBUTE—Marion, VA - The Lincoln Theatre, 117 E. Main St., Marion, VA 24354, will host a special fundraising event this spring. Waiting To Hear, an organization that aids in providing hearing aids to deaf children, is holding a fundraising concert on March 15 at 7:30 with The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute featuring Shawn Gerhard. Gerhard performs a wide variety of Brooks’ music, creating a vibrant and thrilling atmosphere with his renditions of all the hits and a few hidden gems. For more information about and event tickets, visit www.thelincoln.org, call 276-783-6092 or email lincolntheatremgr@gmail.com.

SHENANIGANS: A MUSICAL COMEDY REVUE—Kingsport, TN. The cast of Shenanigans 2025 will be celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. The crew is up to their crazy antics in this frolicsome musical comedy review at LampLight Theatre in Downtown Kingsport, Tennessee. Laugh away the winter blues, and usher in the spring with some knee-slappin’ comedy as talented performers pay tribute to 20 of their favorite Broadway shows. This show-stopping production will be held on weekends, Feb. 28 through March 16, with evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. Saturday matinees will be held at 2 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Doors will open one hour prior to performances. The cost of admission for all performances is $15 for Adults, $13 for Seniors and Groups, $10 for Students. FREE admission for children 5 and under. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling the LampLight box office at (423) 343-1766, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at www.lamplighttheatre.com.

MARCH 16

‘LESSONS FROM SHAKESPEARE: HOW TO AVOID A PERSONAL TRAGEDY’—Theatre Bristol with River's Way present "Lessons from Shakespeare: How to Avoid a Personal Tragedy" on March 15 at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. and March 16 at 2:30 p.m. at the ARTspace, 506 State Street. Tickets are available online at TheatreBristol.org/tickets. "Lessons from Shakespeare: How to Avoid a Personal Tragedy" is a production that features the highlights of the works of William Shakespeare as adapted by Dottie Havlik. It was created especially for the special needs teens and young adults with River's Way and Theatre Bristol actors. River's Way, led by Executive Director Matt Kyle, is an organization dedicated to the positive and productive involvement of young people with disabilities in our community. Tickets are $5 and will be available online and, pending available seating, at the door 30 minutes prior to showtime. Seating is general admission and for any special accommodations, please call or email the Theatre. Show information is also available online at www.TheatreBristol.org or by calling the message line at 423-212-3625. For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-212-3625, or email info@theatrebristol.org.

OVERMOUNTAIN WEAVERS GUILD FIBERS SHOW AND SALE—Saturday, March 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, March 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: Free. Don’t miss this great opportunity to visit with some of the best fiber artists of our region! If you love fibers, this is the place for you! Demonstrations include weaving, spinning, knitting, natural dyeing, and more. A variety of handmade items will be offered for sale. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

RESILIENCE, RECOVERY AND RENEWAL: 2025 SPRING CONFERENCE—Asheville, NC. Organic Growers School (OGS) proudly announces the 2025 Spring Conference, hosted March 14-16 at Mars Hill University (MHU). This year’s theme, Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal, focuses on rebuilding stronger, more sustainable communities following Hurricane Helene while equipping attendees with tools and knowledge for long-term resilience. Explore three tailored tracks focusing on urgent topics related to rebuilding. These include solar and other off-grid systems, mutual aid, resilience practices such as cooking and food preservation, and understanding water and soil contamination, among others. OGS will continue to offer a familiar core curriculum for gardeners, farmers, and those interested in sustainable living. It will feature over 32 workshops across eight tracks, including Gardening, Soils, and Mushrooms. Expert Speakers: Learn from leading voices like Dan Brisebois (The Seed Farmer), Pam Dawling (Year-Round Market Farming), and Chris Smith & Chris Keeve (The Collard Atlas). Online registration is open now. For more details and to secure your discounted tickets, visit www.organicgrowersschool.org/spring-conference.

SHENANIGANS: A MUSICAL COMEDY REVUE—Kingsport, TN. The cast of Shenanigans 2025 will be celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. The crew is up to their crazy antics in this frolicsome musical comedy review at LampLight Theatre in Downtown Kingsport, Tennessee. Laugh away the winter blues, and usher in the spring with some knee-slappin’ comedy as talented performers pay tribute to 20 of their favorite Broadway shows. This show-stopping production will be held on weekends, Feb. 28 through March 16, with evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. Saturday matinees will be held at 2 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Doors will open one hour prior to performances. The cost of admission for all performances is $15 for Adults, $13 for Seniors and Groups, $10 for Students. FREE admission for children 5 and under. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling the LampLight box office at (423) 343-1766, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at www.lamplighttheatre.com.

MARCH 17

IFC: TOLKIEN SCHOLAR, COMPUTER SCIENCE PROFESSOR AND OUTDOOR WRITER MATTHEW DICKERSON—The King University Institute for Faith & Culture’s (IFC) spring series, “Think on These Things,” continues March 17 with versatile scholar and author Matthew Dickerson, Ph.D. On Monday, March 17 at 9:15 a.m. Dickerson will present “With Speech into the Unspeaking: Attentiveness to God’s Handiwork and the Christian Ecological Imagination” in King University’s Memorial Chapel. That evening at 7 p.m. he will offer “Hope and Lament in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth” at Central Presbyterian Church in Bristol, Virginia. Both events are free of charge and open to the public. Dickerson’s expertise in the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and the Inklings has earned international recognition. For more information, visit www.king.edu/events.

ST. PAW-TRICK’S DAY EVENT—The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its first-ever St. Paw-trick’s Day event at Allandale Mansion. You and your dogs can come out for this free event and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an evening meal on the lawn with your furry friends. The free event will take place on March 17 and feature a variety of food trucks, pet-related vendors and a special St. Patrick’s Day themed photo spot for you and your dog. The food trucks will begin serving at 4 p.m. Remember to keep your dog leashed at all time and clean up after them. Parks and Recreation staff will be on hand to answer questions about the city’s dog park and if you choose, register your dog for this fun amenity. Though the event is free, Kingsport Parks and Recreation officials are asking folks to register to know approximately how many people will be showing up. To register, visit https://bit.ly/4hdMnIe or click on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on the “CivicRec” link, then search for “paws and rewind” in the search bar. For more information, visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

MARCH 18

EXPLORING HEALTHCARE CAREERS EVENT—Norton, Va. — Ballad Health is once again partnering with the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation, the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) and Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) to host the Exploring Healthcare Careers event, offering local middle and high school students an opportunity to explore pathways into the healthcare profession, on Tuesday, March 18, from 5-7 p.m., at Norton Overlook, 815 Park Avenue NW, Norton, Virginia. Open to students in grades 5-12, Exploring Healthcare Careers will provide attendees with hands-on insight into healthcare career paths, as well as opportunities to meet school recruiters and learn about financial aid and program requirements. Attendees will have the chance to interact with Ballad Health team members and gain firsthand knowledge about various roles within the healthcare system. Representatives from UVA Wise and MECC will also be in attendance to share information about degree programs, technical certifications and financial aid opportunities to help students take the next step toward their careers. Students and parents interested in learning more about healthcare career opportunities are encouraged to attend the event. No registration is required. For more information, contact 276.439.1391.

SABINE HILL GUIDED TOURS—March 13 & 18, 1:30 p.m. at Sabine Hill State Historic Site, 2328 West G St., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: $10 adult, $8 seniors 65+, $8 veterans & active military, $5 ages 17 & under. Maximum of 12 participants per tour. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Enjoy a guided tour of this stately home built by Mary Patton Taylor, widow of Brigadier General Nathaniel Taylor. The site has been described as one of the finest examples of Federal architecture in the State of Tennessee. Take in the colorful and architecturally detailed interior while learning about the influential Taylor family who called Sabine Hill home in the early 19th century. Please note, only portable toilet facilities are available at this time. Accessibility to the home includes steps and an interior staircase. Tour lasts approximately one hour. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

MARCH 19

AL-ANON—A support group for friends and family of alcoholics and addicts meeting at 7 p.m. every Wednesday in the basement of Lebanon United Methodist Church in Elk Creek, Virginia. For more information, call 276-655-4941.

MARCH 20

BUCHANAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FULL MEMBERSHIP MEETING—The chamber’s spring full membership meeting will be held on March 20 at the Appalachian College of Pharmacy. The chamber will announce this year’s recipient of the Hall of Fame and Volunteer of the Year awards, as well as present scholarships to deserving Buchanan County High School seniors. For more information, call 276-935-4147.

CARTER MANSION GUIDED TOURS—March 11 & 20, 1:30 p.m. at Historic John and Landon Carter Mansion, 1031 Broad St., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: $10 adult, $8 seniors 65+ / $8 veterans & active military / $5 ages 17 & under. Maximum of 12 participants per tour. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Take a guided tour of Tennessee’s oldest frame house! Enjoy the beauty of this elegant frontier home and learn the history of the Carter family who built it between 1775 and 1780. Accessibility to the home includes steps and an interior staircase. Tour lasts approximately one hour. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

IRISH FIDDLER ANDREW FINN MAGILL LECTURE & PERFORMANCE—Andrew Finn Magill returns to the Bristol Public Library for a lecture on Irish fiddling. Discover the intricacies of Irish fiddle music while enjoying some exceptional fiddle playing Thursday, March 20, at 6:30 p.m. in the J. Henry Kegley Meeting Room. Seating begins at 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Andrew Finn Magill is an award-winning multi-genre fiddler/violinist and composer who has been featured on PBS, NPR, and TEDx. For more information, contact Rita Eggers at 276-821-6147.

MARCH 21

CONTRA DANCE—Sparta, NC. On Friday, March 21, the Alleghany Arts Council will hold its monthly Contra Dance at the Sparta United Methodist Church, 190 N. Main St, Sparta, NC 28675. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. with an easy-to-learn beginner lesson followed by the main dance at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be available. These dances will be held the third Friday of the month. Tickets are $10 in advance, $10 at the door, and youth 12 and under are free with an adult. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.alleghanyartscouncil.org/events/contra-dance/. Contra dance is a form of American folk dance. It is the older cousin to the square dance. No fancy footwork needed — if you can walk, you can dance! All the dances are taught and called. No need to bring a partner to join our friendly dance community, and it is appropriate for all ages. Lively music will be provided by Old Time Cookin’ and called by George Segebade. The band will serve up driving string band dance music rooted in the NC and VA Appalachian Mountains and its foothills. You’ll hear and feel their passion in the music!

DUAL ARTISTS RECEPTION: PHOTOGRAPHER BILL HARRIS, QUILTER PHYLLIS BOLLING WILLIAMS—Big Stone Gap, VA. Mountain Empire Community College’s Wampler Library will host a special reception honoring two outstanding local artists: photographer Bill Harris and quilter Phyllis Bolling Williams, on Friday, March 21, from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Wampler Library, located in Robb Hall on MECC’s campus. It is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served. Bill Harris, a celebrated local photographer, will present his latest exhibit, “Africa”, a breathtaking photographic journey. During the reception, Harris will discuss his experiences capturing the images on display and share additional photographs from his travels. Phyllis Bolling Williams, a seventh-generation Wise Countian, has created over 100 quilts for family and friends throughout her lifetime. Now 89 years old, she continues to craft intricate pieces, including her current project—a quilt for her granddaughter’s college graduation. A portrait of Williams by Julie Williams Dixon will also be on display. For more information, contact Meg Wilson, Library Director, 276-523-9094.

SOUTHWEST VA 4-H TRACTOR CLUB FARM TOY SHOW AND DISPLAY CONTEST—The Southwest VA 4-H Tractor Club’s inaugural Farm Toy Show and Display Contest will be held at the SW Virginia Higher Education Center, Friday March 21, from noon to 8 p.m., and Saturday, March 22, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors from across the Southeast will be on hand to sell you a new favorite or a cherished old memory. Youth and adult farm toy exhibits will be competing in the display contest and several educational displays will also be on hand.

MARCH 22

BAYS MOUNTAIN PARK STARWATCH PROGRAM—Bays Mountain Park’s night sky observing sessions, StarWatch, has returned for the spring season. StarWatch sessions allow the public to enjoy the splendor of the night sky at Bays Mountain Park’s observatories. If the weather is good, attendees can typically see star clusters, nebulous gas clouds, colorful multiple-star systems, distant galaxies and the Moon and planets. If the weather is poor, the park will have an alternate activity in the planetarium theater. StarWatch sessions will be held on March 1 and 8 at 7 p.m., March 15, 22, and 29 at 8 p.m. and April 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 8:30 p.m. Note — please arrive at the beginning of the program so you can find your way to the observatories. Be sure to dress for temperatures at least 20 degrees cooler than expected and do not use white light flashlights at the observing grounds. This is a free event and does not require registration. StarWatch is hosted by the Bays Mountain Astronomy Club & Bays Mountain Planetarium. For more information, visit www.baysmountain.com or call 423-229-9447.

CRUMLEY HOUSE JOGGIN’ FOR THE NOGGIN 5K AND PANCAKE BREAKFAST—Limestone, TN. The Crumley House invites the region to participate in the Joggin’ for the Noggin 5K and Pancake Breakfast, happening Saturday, March 22, at 10 a.m. (Registration opens at 8:30 AM) at The Crumley House, 300 Urbana Road, Limestone, TN. Registration Fee: $35. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, this scenic 5K offers a refreshing way to welcome spring. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual walker, the race provides a professionally managed and electronically timed course, thanks to We Run Events. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared pancake breakfast—the perfect post-race treat, straight from the Crumley House kitchen! The event serves as The Crumley House’s cornerstone fundraiser for National Brain Injury Awareness Month, helping raise vital funds to support individuals on their journey to recovery. Pre-registered participants will receive an event T-shirt and goody bag, along with the chance to compete for awards in various divisions. Please note: Event T-shirts are guaranteed only for those who pre-register. A limited number may be available on race day, first come, first served. Secure your spot now at werunevents.com or crumleyhouse.com. Day-of registration will also be available on-site beginning at 8:30 a.m.

NBA 2K25 ESPORTS TOURNAMENT—The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department’s newest eSports Tournament is bound to be a slam dunk later this month. So, grab your controller, lace up your best virtual high tops and prepare to dominate the paint in our NBA 2K25 Tournament. The tournament will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 22 at the V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex (301 Louis St.) and is open for players ages 8 and up. The entry fee is $20 per player. Games will be played on a Playstation 5, and controllers will be provided, though players may bring their own controllers. To register, visit https://bit.ly/4kfCPPu. You can also click on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on the “CivicRec” link, then search for “NBA” in the search bar. For information about other programs, activities and classes offered by the Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department, please visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

SPRING HIKE: WALKING IN FRONTIER FOOTSTEPS—Saturday, March 22, 10-11 a.m. at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: Free. Registration required at https://tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Join us as we kick off the spring season with a Ranger led hike! This event will coincide with the 250th anniversary commemoration of the Transylvania Purchase. Hear the story of America’s largest private land purchase as you pass through the very grounds on which it occurred. This hike will begin inside Fort Watauga. Program is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

TRANSYLVANIA PURCHASE: 250TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION—Saturday, March 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: Free. In March of 1775, Judge Richard Henderson and members of the Transylvania Land Co. met with principal leaders of the Cherokee to negotiate the Treaty of Sycamore Shoals. This resulted in the largest private land purchase in American history and led to a massive migration of European settlers along the Wilderness Road into the western frontier. Join us as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of this significant part of the Sycamore Shoals story. Contact the park for a full event schedule. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.