In the years immediately following World War II, America was ready for something new. The country was booming, families were growing, and drivers wanted modern cars that reflected a new era of optimism and progress. In 1949, Ford Motor Company delivered exactly that with the introduction of the all-new Ford—now famously known as the “Shoebox Ford.” Produced from 1949 through 1951, the Shoebox Ford earned its nickname from its clean, slab-sided styling and squared-off roofline that resembled a shoebox.

The Union County Farmers Market is gearing up for another exciting and successful season! All current, new, and interested vendors and volunteers are invited to the 2026 organizational meeting on Saturday, March 7, from 5:00 – 7:00 at the Farmers Market at 115 Durham Dr, Maynardville.

The Flintstones and The Jetsons were two of my favorite cartoons when I was a girl. What is so weird is how I eventually felt like I belonged in each one.

On February 14, 2026, Marsha Reep of the North Knoxville Quilts of Valor Foundation attended the Veterans' monthly breakfast and presented Commander Darrell White (U.S. Air Force) and Adjutant Norman Gillen (U.S. Navy) of the American Legion Post 212 with Quilts of Valor. We are a grateful nation and appreciate and thank both men for their service, dedication, and sacrifice in protecting our freedoms.

The American Legion New Liberty Post 212's monthly free breakfast for all Veterans, their family, friends, and supporters was again well attended on Valentine's Day. The Veterans were very grateful to the City of Luttrell for sponsoring this event. Luttrell Mayor Jerry Lawson briefly reviewed some of the challenges the town of Luttrell has faced and overcome, noting that Luttrell's population is about half that of Maynardville. There was some good-natured kidding about stopping at the sign that says Luttrell City Hall and being handed a menu.

The gym was full of energy during the UCHS v.s. Gibbs High School game on January 9th. Dressed head to toe in red, the student section packed the bleachers and brought all of the school spirit. A few students dressed as ESPN reporters, adding to the fun and excitement in the student section. The Lady Patriots earned an impressive win, displaying their strong teamwork and determination throughout the game. They came out strong and secured a big win that set the tone for the night. Although the boys lost the game (65-58), the night was still a special moment for our school.

Mrs. Stochia Brantley's Fall 2025 CNA class finished off their course by taking the final exam. This exam consisted of a one-hundred-question written exam followed by a skills portion monitored by a state proctor. Prior to their CNA test, students spent clinical hours alongside partner Willow Ridge Nursing Home. They gained a lot of experience through shadowing, but also had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience. Student, Olivia Jones, recounts her experience: ¨I am very grateful to have had the opportunity of this class.

Union County has never had a large population. Many farms and backcountry roads cause students to travel outside of the community to seek higher education, and this can put a financial burden on the citizens. In Maynardville, things have already begun to change. TCAT of Union County will introduce educational changes, support economic growth, and strengthen the community overall. TCAT is designed to provide hands-on training that prepares students for employment.

Union County Veterans have an opportunity to gather casually to connect with fellow Veterans in our community on the 3rd Thursday of each month. The next informal Meet and Greet will be at the American Legion Post 212 on Thursday, February 19, from 3:00 to 7:00. Stop by and say hello to old friends and make new ones! For more information, email Norman Gillen at Adjutant@altnpost212.org

Large trees are a great asset in a home landscape, providing shade, beauty, and added property value. Properly maintained trees are normally healthy and will provide these benefits for decades, perhaps a century. But trees with health issues can be dangerous. These are classified as Hazard Trees and pose the threat of dropping large limbs or falling down on people or property. Poor tree health can be caused by landowner neglect, insect or disease attacks, old age, or windstorms.