A Closer Look, Connecting the Tri-Cities

08/10/2026

Jennifer Escue, CEO of the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic & Sexual Violence, joins Crystal Carter to discuss Tennessee's new domestic and sexual violence awareness specialty license plate and the effort to secure the 1,000 preorders required for production.

08/04/2026

07/31/2026

Holly Yokley, Jeremy White, and Dustina Buckles of Kingsport Theatre Guild join Crystal Carter to discuss the Guild's upcoming productions of The Addams Family and The Play That Goes Wrong. The conversation highlights the collaborative effort required to produce multiple stage productions, opportunities for performers and volunteers of all experience levels, and the Guild's commitment to expanding arts education through its children's theater program. The interview also discusses the importance of community theater in developing confidence, creativity, teamwork, and providing accessible cultural experiences for audiences throughout the Tri-Cities region.

07/28/2026

B.K. Martin and Kevin Bowden of For His Glory Productions join Crystal Carter to discuss the organization's upcoming production of Peter Pan.

07/24/2026

CJ Lewis joins Crystal Carter to share his experience with a rare cancer diagnosis and discuss the Creeper Trail Ride to End Cancer, an annual fundraiser in Damascus, Virginia benefiting rare cancer research at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Lewis discusses his diagnosis, treatment, and eventual remission, as well as the importance of specialized medical care and research for patients with uncommon cancers. The conversation highlights how community fundraising supports research into new treatments, provides connections among cancer patients and survivors, and gives individuals an opportunity to continue supporting rare cancer research even after the annual event has concluded.

07/24/2026

Charles Denney reports on several University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture programs and initiatives across the state. Stories include research into canola as a potential additional income source for Tennessee farmers while providing soil health benefits, a Tennessee 4-H OWLS Camp that teaches youth outdoor, wildlife, leadership, and service skills, and the Nourish Recovery program, which incorporates nutrition education into addiction recovery to support physical and emotional wellness. The segment also highlights Tennessee Master Gardeners participating in activities connected to America’s 250th anniversary, emphasizing horticulture education, volunteer service, and community involvement.

07/22/2026

Mary Steadman of Friends of Warriors' Path State Park joins Crystal Carter to discuss the organization's mission to preserve and enhance the park through volunteer projects, fundraising, and public advocacy. Steadman highlights the annual Golf Classic fundraiser, which supports projects such as maintaining Darrell's Dream Boundless Playground, improving park facilities, and expanding recreational opportunities.

07/10/2026

Sam Snyder talks to Crystal Carter about the annual 22 Days for Vets Challenge, which encourages participants to run, walk, hike, bike, ruck, or complete another physical activity for 22 consecutive days to raise awareness about veteran su***de and mental health challenges. He explained how veterans may struggle with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, depression, isolation, and reluctance to ask for help after returning home.

06/24/2026

Bertina Dew, Executive Director of Kingsport Ballet, along with guest artists Adrian Sanchez and Graham E. Barns, join Crystal Carter to discuss the ballet’s production of Vincent, inspired by the life and artwork of Vincent van Gogh. The conversation highlights the collaboration between dance and visual art, the training and dedication required of professional dancers, and the importance of providing artistic opportunities for local youth. The interview also emphasizes community partnerships, scholarship programs that help students access dance education, and the role of arts organizations in enriching cultural experiences throughout the region.

06/19/2026

Cornelia Laemmli Orth, Music Director and Conductor of Symphony of the Mountains, joins Crystal Carter to discuss the orchestra’s 80th anniversary season and its commitment to making live orchestral performances more accessible through a "pay what you can" ticket initiative. The conversation highlights upcoming patriotic concerts celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, collaborations with guest artists, performances throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and Western North Carolina, and the importance of community support in sustaining arts organizations. The interview also emphasizes the educational and cultural value of live music and the Symphony’s ongoing efforts to serve audiences across the region.