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Unveiling the Invisible Universe at Bays Mountain Park

A new planetarium program is now showing at Bays Mountain Park, one that will explore the different ways humans have learned about the cosmos over the centuries.

“Unveiling the Invisible Universe” is now showing as the main planetarium program through the end of the year. The program airs Tuesday through Friday at 4 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. The 25-minute show is followed by a live tour of the night sky using the planetarium’s optical star projector.

A synopsis of Unveiling the Invisible Universe

For thousands of years, humans observed the light from the night sky with just their eyes. Then, at the beginning of the 17th century, the invention of the telescope revolutionized our knowledge of the universe.

In the 20th century, with the advent of rockets, it became possible to go above the Earth’s atmosphere and observe X-ray and gamma ray radiation from the hot and violent universe. Recently, detection of gravitational waves by the LIGO experiment of two merging black holes opened a new window into astrophysics.

“We’re excited to bring this program to our visitors. It not only reveals many of the wonders of the cosmos, but also the ‘how do we know?’” said Planetarium Director Adam Thanz.

The alternate feature showing Saturdays and Sunday at 2 p.m. through the end of the year is “Appalachian Skies.”

“Appalachian Skies” takes visitors on a majestic tour of the current evening sky using the Zeiss optical star projector instrument. This live presentation is enhanced with additional content from our VELVET LED projectors for a wonderful, immersive experience.

Due to the live nature of the program, and the natural progression of the changing night sky throughout the seasons, each presentation will be unique. Learn what fascinating mythological constellations, from Ancient Greece and other cultures, will be easily visible. Find out what planets are easily seen as well. Visitors will take this knowledge home and be able to locate these celestial sights for themselves.

For more information about Bays Mountain Park and its programs, events and activities, visit www.baysmountain.com.

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Kingsport offering Parent/Teacher Conference Day Camp

The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is offering a special one-day children’s camp next month. The camp will be held on the same day as a Kingsport City Schools’ parent/teacher conference day.

Meaning, while parents meet with teachers, their children can attend a fun-filled day of games and activities.

The one-day camp will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on September 15 at the V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex (301 Louis Street).

The cost per child is $25 for city residents and $30 for non-city residents. The camp is open for boys and girls ages 6 to 12. The maximum number of registrants is 50. Participants will need to bring a lunch and snack.

The day’s activities will be like those found during the normal, summer camp program – video games, dodgeball, basketball, kickball, coloring, puzzles, board and card games, crafts and more.

To register for the camp, visit bit.ly/47NPEKK. 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 “parent teacher” in the search bar.

Registration closes at noon on Sept. 13 and walk-ups will not be accepted the day of the camp.

For information about other classes, programs and events from Kingsport Parks and Recreation, visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

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City offices closed for Labor Day holiday

No changes to the garbage/trash routes next week

City offices will be closed on Monday, September 4 for the Labor Day holiday. However, the city will not be adjusting garbage or trash routes next week.

All garbage and trash routes will run as normal during the week of September 4-8.

Kingsport’s demolition landfill will be closed on September 4 and reopen September 5 on its regular schedule.

For more information about sanitation services, please visit www.kingsporttn.gov.

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Labor Day Yoga Hike at Bays Mountain Park

Celebrate this Labor Day by participating in a unique, outdoor exercise program with your friends and family at Bays Mountain Park.

A local yoga instructor is partnering with Bays Mountain Park to offer a Yoga Hike to the community. The class features a 1.7-mile hike, out and back portion of the Lakeside Trail that will take approximately 70 minutes to complete (yoga included).

The bridges along the Lakeside Trail are utilized to teach standing yoga poses while challenging your strength, flexibility and balance. Isometric core work will be emphasized while hiking.

The class will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on September 4. The cost is $6 per person and the class is limited to 15 people. All yoga levels are welcome. Please wear exercise clothing and plan to meet outside the Nature Center.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/47RTO4l. You can also register by clicking on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on “CivicRec,” then search for “yoga hike” in the search bar.

For information about other events, activities and programs offered by Bays Mountain park, visit www.baysmountain.com.

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Highlighting Heroes: Robert Petrisko

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One of the best parts of Robert Petrisko’s job at the Kingsport Area Transit Service is helping people reach their destination. Whether it be to the grocery store, the doctor’s office or to work, Petrisko plays an integral role in making sure passengers arrive at their destination in a timely manner.

Most times the job is routine, but one little quirk could throw the whole day off. And that’s where Petrisko shines – troubleshooting the issue and working through it.

Petrisko, who turns 40 later this year, began working for KATS in 2016 when he first came to Kingsport, starting out as a temp washing buses. Six months later, he was hired full time as a driver. In 2019, Petrisko was promoted to head dispatcher and then about a year ago was promoted to his current position as foreman.

“I run the day-to-day operations, I’m responsible for making sure the buses and vans are running on time, all of the scheduling for passengers and drivers and do the behind-the-wheel training,” Petrisko said. “If a bus breaks down in the middle of route, I’ve got to figure out how to get one out there and get the passengers picked up.”

Petrisko was born in New Orleans and has called many places home, including Chicago, Maine, Virginia, New Hampshire and Florida. For most of his life, he lived in Maryland and Vermont but about eight years ago, his journey brought him to Kingsport.

“My parents lived in Maryland, and they would come down here twice a year for the races. I loved Vermont, but the winters were too long, too cold and just miserable,” Petrisko said. “My parents then decided to move down here and I decided to come along.”

Transit systems across the country have faced a variety of challenges in recent years, from the COVID-19 pandemic to a lack of qualified drivers to acquiring parts and vehicles to operate in an efficient manner. Petrisko says he enjoys the problem solving challenges of his job and notes that every day is different than the one before.

“I can’t imagine someone talking me out of leaving KATS. I really enjoy working here with these people,” Petrisko said. “Not only did KATS Transit Coordinator Chris Campbell and KATS Superintendent Cindy Johnson see something in me, but whenever I wanted to learn something new, they’ve always been willing to help me.”

For more information about KATS, its routes and the services offered, please visit www.kingsporttransit.org.

robert petrisko on phone call
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Kingsport offers Yoga for Moms class

The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to announce a new yoga class for the community – Yoga for Moms.

Yoga is an ancient practice that brings the mind and body together through stretching, breathing and meditation. Yoga can improve your mental health and balance, reduce stress and anxiety and is beneficial to your overall well-being.

The Yoga for Moms class will take place every Tuesday from September 5 through October 10 at the V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex. The hour-long classes start at 1:30 p.m. and cost $5 per class.

This women’s health yoga class features poses that challenge moms to build strength and flexibility while also developing their pelvic floor, core, balance and coordination. This exercise science based class also includes a short restorative section focusing on diaphragmatic breathing.

The class is designed for participants of all levels and modifications will be offered as needed. There will be a limited number of mats available so feel free to bring your own.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/3OG3INH. You can also register by clicking on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on “CivicRec,” then search for “yoga for moms” in the search bar.

For information about other programs offered by Kingsport Parks and Recreation, visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

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Enjoy the Unpredictable World of Acrylic Pouring

Adventure into the fun and unpredictable world of acrylic pouring with Elena Corradino, a local artist who will teach you everything there is to know about this exciting style of abstract art.

The Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts is offering a one-day class in acrylic pouring on September 9 in Room 228 of the Kingsport Renaissance Center (1200 E. Center Street). The class runs from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with a 30 minute break for lunch (bring your own or eat local).

The cost is $85, and the class is for participants ages 13 and up. All materials you need will be provided.

During the four-hour class, you’ll make 10 paintings of various shapes and sizes, and each will be different. You will also learn five different types of pours, including a double flip cup, and three ways to make “cells.”

Participants will discuss color theory and what makes abstract art pop, and Elena will go into detail about the materials and brands she uses when making art. When you leave, you’ll have the knowledge of how to make your own beautiful, acrylic art.

To register, visit https://bit.ly/44t1K9a. Online sales will end 48 hours prior to the class. For information about other classes, programs and activities of the Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts, visit www.engagekingsport.com.

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Kingsport celebrates National Library Card Sign-Up Month

Get into your “element” with a Kingsport Library Card

From borrowing books, to downloading e-books, getting homework help, learning new skills, or attending story time, a library card helps you in so many ways.

With a library card you’re able to dive into a new hobby, tinker in a maker space and spark your creativity. A library card is your most important school supply—it’s elemental, really—and everyone should have one.

Which is why the Kingsport Public Library is joining with the American Library Association to celebrate September being National Library Card Sign-up month. Librarians across the nation are reminding parents, caregivers and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the path to academic achievement and lifelong learning.

From free access to STEAM programs/activities, educational apps, in-person and virtual homework help, technology workshops to the expertise of librarians, a library card is one of the most cost-effective back-to-school supplies available. 

“There is nothing more empowering than signing up for your own library card,” said Assistant Library Manager Casey Applebaum. “Through access to technology, media resources and educational programs, a library card gives students the tools to succeed in the classroom and provides people of all ages opportunities to pursue their dreams and passions.”

Since 1987, Library Card Sign-up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card.

Kingsport Public Library, along with libraries everywhere, will continue to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of the community. To sign up for a library card or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, please visit the Kingsport Public Library (400 Broad Street) or go to www.kingsportlibrary.org.

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Winners announced in Storm Drain Art Contest

The City of Kingsport’s Stormwater Department is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s Storm Drain Art Contest.

The winners are:

  • Trista Demoranville
  • Chad Crawford
  • Sommer Franklin
  • Michele Harbaugh
  • Kaitlyn Snyder

Each artist will receive a $150 prize and the paint and materials to start their work the first week of September. Drains to be painted are in front of Dobyns-Bennett High School, on Ravine Road (near Holston Valley Community Hospital), on Ormond Drive (near Johnson Elementary School), by the V.O. Dobbins Sr Center and along Clinchfield Street (near the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce).

The contest – now in its sixth year – is a partnership with the city’s stormwater department, the Office of Cultural Arts and Engage Kingsport. The goal of the contest is to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our rivers, stream habitat, and aquatic wildlife.

To keep up with the progress on each drain, check out Kingsport Public Works on Facebook.

This year’s contest is sponsored by Barge Design Solutions, Gresham Smith, Mattern & Craig and Now or Never Gallery Tattoo.

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Kingsport Aquatic Center hosts two-day Drool Party

Event offers dogs a chance to play and swim in the Outdoor Water Park

This year, for the first time ever, the Kingsport Aquatic Center is hosting a TWO-DAY Drool Party!

For the past 10 years the Kingsport Aquatic Center has ended its summer season by inviting dogs of all breeds and sizes to come down and enjoy an afternoon of running, jumping and playing in the toddler play area of outdoor water park.

“Since it’s our 10th year of hosting the Drool Party, we wanted to celebrate the milestone by offering people an extra day to bring their dogs down and enjoy a few hours in the pool,” said Aquatics Program Coordinator Madison Gump.

The Drool Party will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on September 9 and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on September 10.

Admission is $5 per dog and free to owners. Limit one dog per person, and the dogs’ handler must be over 18 and bring leashes with them. Your dogs must be up to date on all vaccines and vaccination records are required to register.

Dog-related vendors (groomers, boarding, treats, etc) will be on hand inside the facility, while food trucks will be parked in the parking lot for guests to enjoy.

To register for the Drool Party, visit https://bit.ly/3P2HNBD. 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 “drool party” in the search bar.

For information about other Kingsport Parks and Recreation programs, please visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

Link to: City of Kingsport
City of Kingsport, Tennessee