A Closer Look, Connecting the Tri-Cities

09/02/2026

The free household hazmat collection event is Saturday, September 26 from 9am to 1pm at Sullivan Central Middle School.

Sullivan Central Middle, 131 Shipley Ferry Road, Blountville
Questions - call (423) 323-6439.

08/31/2026

Dr. Teresa Tyson and Dr. Paula-Hill Collins of The Health Wagon join Crystal Carter to discuss the importance of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, and efforts to have the opioid-reversal medication included in emergency medical kits aboard commercial aircraft. The discussion includes Dr. Collins' experience assisting with an in-flight medical emergency where naloxone was not available and efforts encouraging public input regarding federal requirements for airline emergency medical supplies.
The interview also highlights The Health Wagon's upcoming community health initiatives, including free Narcan training and distribution, the Lee County Move Mountains Medical Mission offering medical, dental and vision services, women's health events providing mammograms, Pap smears and HPV testing, and assistance for women needing follow-up care after abnormal screenings. The organization also discusses a program providing free homecoming and prom dresses to young women in need.

08/26/2026

Dr. Kelly Fishman joins Crystal Carter to discuss ways pet owners can improve their dogs' overall health beyond routine walks. Fishman explains the importance of strength-building exercise and proper hydration, particularly during hot weather, and discusses appropriate steps to cool an overheated dog and the importance of veterinary care when heat stroke is suspected. The conversation also covers affordable at-home exercise options, nutrition and feeding practices, maintaining a healthy weight, and strategies for supporting aging dogs through exercise, diet, and supplements. Fishman emphasizes beginning preventative measures before mobility problems develop to help pets maintain a better quality of life as they age.

08/24/2026

Bailey Thomason, Public Information Officer for the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, joins Crystal Carter to discuss the wide range of health services available to area residents. Thompson explains programs including immunizations, WIC nutrition assistance, Healthy Families home visits, women's health and cancer screenings, family planning, vital records, chronic disease prevention, and community health education. The conversation also highlights school-based services, resources for uninsured and underinsured residents, international travel immunizations, smoking cessation information, and the Health Department's role in connecting individuals and families with appropriate health care resources throughout Sullivan County.

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.