In February’s article I wrote about the first small airplane accident that claimed the lives of (At the time of the accident) three of the most popular young singing entertainers. I wrote more on the life and success of Jiles Richardson, known as the Big Bopper. In the March article which is about the accident near Camden, Tennessee on March 5, 1963 at approximately 6:30 CST that claimed the lives of Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas, Hawkshaw Hawkins, and pilot Randy Hughes. The Piper Commanche Airplane was owned by Randy Hughes who was Patsy Cline’s and Cowboy Copas’ manager as well as Cowboy Copas’ son-in-law married to Kathy Loma Copas Hughes who was Cowboy Copas’ daughter and also, recorded duets with her father, Cowboy Copas. This article will tell you about Cowboy Copas who at the time was the biggest star on the airplane. Today, most under the age of fifty do not know about Cowboy Copas and have never heard any of his recorded songs.

Winter Court was held between the boys' and girls' games against Washburn. Candidates representing their class lined the gym as the winner was announced. Everyone joined together to contribute to a school-wide food drive. Together, they made it their mission to reach all parts of the county to round up non-perishable food donations. Katie Johnson & Brandon Reed represented the senior class, Ashlyn Bucker & Miles Justice represented the junior class, Savannah Dyer & Tate Sykes represented the sophomore class, and Mylee Martin & Zander Stedam represented the freshman class.

Union County is gearing up for a full day of cars, chrome, horsepower and hometown history as the Thunder Road Car Show and Swap Meet rolls into Wilson Park and Union County High School on Saturday, March 21, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine.

It has been suggested that the Union County Lions Club should consider sponsoring an all-inclusive playground. Interesting idea, but what exactly does that mean? Who would use it, and do we need one? After speaking with several people and reviewing accessible playgrounds in Knox and Anderson counties, I found that the definition seems fluid and can vary depending on who defines it.

While several hawk species migrate, the red-tailed hawk stays around all year and is the most common one seen. They prefer to hang out in open fields near woodland edges. Seeing a red tail gliding across the sky and hearing their high-pitched cry gives one a pleasing dose of wildness.

We love quaint mountain towns to spend a long weekend. Let’s go to Blowing Rock, North Carolina. It’s just about three and a half hours from here, but worth the drive. What do we do? We walk around, shop and eat. Please allow me to elaborate. I know it sounds simplistic, but there is something about Blowing Rock that’s special. It draws us back year after year. This place has kept its charm, while offering a nice variety of activities, food and shopping.

Maynardville residents Amber Hurst and Melanie Hurst travelled to Uganda last November on a mission trip with Hope 4 Kids International. Their itinerary included attending a well dedication ceremony in the remote village of Panyandere to celebrate the opening of one of the wells funded by Walk for Water Union County in 2025.

Public speaking is a cornerstone of 4-H programs across the nation. Through purposeful lesson planning and execution, as well as worthwhile opportunities to practice, 4-H prepares youth with the confidence and courage to build communication skills and to put those skills to good use. By learning how to distinctly think critically, openly express their ideas and speak with confidence, youth are not only growing as leaders today—they are preparing for bright and successful futures tomorrow.

The UC Family and Community Education (FCE) Club gathered in February for a wonderful morning of learning, fellowship and delicious food at the Extension Office. Members enjoyed an informative program focused on heart health, just in time for American Heart Month.