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, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 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 Union County Family and Community Education (FCE) Club gathered in February for a wonderful morning of learning, fellowship, and delicious food at the Union County Extension Office. Members enjoyed an informative program focused on heart health, just in time for American Heart Month.

The man could not help but notice how a recent storm had caused a large tree to fall at a place not far from where he lived. It saddened the man to note that the falling tree had crushed a small but very neat spring house.