Jessica Buck and Rebecca Lock to lead BOE

Rebecca Lock, Vice Chairperson, and Jessica Buck, Chairperson, are happy to be the leadership of the Union County Board of Education.

Director Greg Clay welcomed the new school board members, Harold Cooke, Charlie Hamilton, Terry Washam and Dr. Jimmy Carter at the Union County Board of Education meeting in September. Director Clay called for nominations for school board chairman. Rebecca Lock nominated Jessica Buck. Danny Wayne Collins nominated Dr. Jimmy Carter. The vote was by signed ballot. Clay read the name of the voter and the name of the candidate on each ballot aloud. Jessica Buck is the chairperson. There were four votes for Buck and two votes for Carter. Carter was absent.
Buck then asked for nominations for Vice Chairperson. Terry Washam nominated Rebecca Lock, who was elected by acclamation. So perhaps for the first time in Union County, two women will lead the school board. Lock is also the legislative liaison to TSBA.
During the workshop, Deputy Jerry Lawson, who is the SRO supervisor, urged parents to caution their children regarding negative or violent threats. According to Lawson any and all threats are and will be investigated and the people, whether children or adults, will be arrested and prosecuted. There have been a rash of threats pertaining to violence recently in several surrounding counties and some in the recent past in Union County.
UCEA President Carolyn Murr asked that new teachers be given a few days sick leave at the beginning of the year in case they are hurt at work and have no sick leave to use. She explained that new teachers with no sick leave must lose pay if they are hurt on the job which causes a hardship for a new teacher.
Clay updated the board on the new middle school progress and said that footers would soon be poured as the grading is going well. He also suggested some coaching supplements and discussed positions that were needed or vacant at various schools. He commented that test data is being released and should be ready by the October or November board meeting. Board members discussed chaperones for field trips, differentiated pay for high performing teachers, upcoming legislation, and student enrollment.
They reviewed changes in board policy and approved routine budget amendments and field trips. Clay noted there is still a concern for substitutes for nurses and employees. He also said that the staff is looking at some grant opportunities through the Boys and Girls Club to provide tutoring.
The next Union County Board of Education meeting will be at Union County High School on October 3, beginning with the workshop at 6 p.m.

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Articles

Heritage festival marked a perfect day to remember grandpa

Heritage Festival Parade Grand Marshals: Mayor Jason Bailey, Grandpa Jack, Cousin Jed, and Doily Parton.

The 20th annual Union County Heritage Festival opened with a parade led by the UCHS JROTC, Band, and Choir on October 5, 2024. Following the chorus was a wild west covered wagon that is over 100 years old pulled by a couple of mules. Inside the wagon were Mayor Jason Bailey, Doily Parton, Grandpa Jack, and Cousin Jed, who welcomed the crowd of onlookers. The parade traveled down Wilson Lane to the Emily Link Gazebo where the JROTC presented the colors. The Veterans, the Scouts, and the attendees recited the pledge. The UCHS Band played and the UCHS Choir led the National Anthem.

HAM Radio Operators Coordinate Relief Efforts in North Carolina

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In the wake of Hurricane Helene, amateur radio operators, also known as HAMs, are stepping up to coordinate relief efforts managed entirely by volunteers. Vicki Carnes of South Carolina, call sign AD3I, is running net control and leading the initiative, which has become a lifeline for extremely isolated areas affected by the disaster in neighboring North Carolina.

Puffball Mushrooms and their fascinating history

Three large puffball mushrooms near trees and leaves

Three large puffball mushrooms look strange, but are completely normal and expected after rainy weather. Photo by Jerry Walker, Sharps Chapel

Have you noticed little mushrooms popping up in yards this week? They seem to be everywhere lately! The rainfall from Hurricane Helene has certainly created ideal conditions here in Union County. This week, Union County Agriculture Extension Agent Shannon DeWitt identified a mushroom with a fascinating history: the Puffball mushroom. These large, white mushrooms, about the size of a basketball, were growing just along a tree line, characteristically in dead leaves.

Union County Heritage Festival Announces 2024 Exhibit Winners

The Union County Heritage Festival showcased remarkable talent and skill from both youth and adult participants in this year's 4-H Youth and Adults Exhibits. The annual event featured a variety of categories, from sewing and needle art to canned goods and farm-fresh eggs. The Union County community came together to celebrate the hard work and creativity of its members.

Oatmeal Coconut Cookies

Artwork by Shirley McMurtrie

Drop cookies are easy to make. I like that since rolling out cookie dough is not one of my favorite tasks. Just stir it up, drop dough onto baking sheet and bake. What could be easier than that?

The Impact of Electricity in 1946

In 1946, Agent Angie Fugate conducted demonstrations for members of the Homemakers Clubs, showcasing new electric stoves and cooking appliances, including pressure cookers. She explained how these appliances operated differently from traditional wood cook stoves. Fugate also taught techniques for freezing foods using the new electric freezers and demonstrated the use of electric sewing machines, which had replaced pedal-operated models. Additionally, she provided guidance on gardening, lawn beautification, and chicken care.

By the Seat of His Pants

Do you like to know where you’re going or do you prefer to drive around to see where the roads lead? As for me, I like finding shortcuts or a new route. You never know when you may need to use them, especially if you’re being chased.

Heritage Festival Pie Baking Winners

Brittany Bowlin's Grand Champion Pecan Cream Pie

Carol Pratt of Union County FCE and Abby Thomas of UT Extension Union County announced the winners of the 2024 Union County Heritage Festival Pie Baking Contest on October 5, 2024. FCE Judges tasted and judged the overall appearance, the crust, and the taste in addition to reviewing the recipe with each pie. Brittany Bowlin was named 2024 Grand Champion Pie Baker and received $100 for her Pecan Cream Pie.

Fall Colors and the Weather

How bright the fall colors will be depends a lot on the weather leading up to mid-October

How bright the fall colors will be depends a lot on the weather leading up to mid-October

The autumn coloration of trees is always looked forward to with anticipation. The presence of numerous tree species (around 125 for us) having brilliant fall foliage is not common planet wide, as the only other places with a similar abundance of foliage colorations is northern China, Korea, and Japan. A common question this time of year is will the colors be good or not? The answer is meteorological.

Three Tips to Reduce Lower Back Pain for the Hybrid Worker: Part II

Here are two more tips to strengthen and protect your back while working.

Set yourself up for success: your work environment can have a big impact on your comfort and musculoskeletal health. Instead of forcing your body to fit your workspace, set up your workspace to fit your body.

Thank you, Union County !

The American Legion Post 212 would like to thank all the many people who stopped long enough at the intersection of Hickory Star Road and Maynardville Hwy on October 5 to plop some money into the buckets held by our Veterans. Many drivers were in a hurry to get to the Heritage Festival in Wilson Park, but still slowed down long enough to make a donation. (Luckily, no Veterans were hit while playing in traffic).

Kerns Food Hall

Peter Kern, a German immigrant, established a bakery at the corner of State Street and Main in Knoxville and sold cookies, made from flour and molasses, to Union soldiers. They were known as Kern’s Confections and he later expanded to ice cream. Kern built a new three-story structure in 1876, the Kern Building (now The Oliver Hotel), on Market Square in Knoxville, which is on the Register of Historic places. Peter Kern died in 1907 and his descendants sold the company in 1920 to the Brown family.

KidSight Outreach in Union County

KidSight in Union County in September

Eighty percent of all visual impairment can be prevented or cured. The first step to prevention is awareness. The second step is early detection through vision screening. Early identification leads to a timely referral, professional treatment, and improved or restored sight. Pediatric vision screening detects children at risk for visual conditions with the goal of connecting those in need with an eye care provider for evaluation and treatment.

Great Expectations

Who would have thought that a hurricane that made landfall in Florida could have such devastating effects more than one thousand miles away in the hills of Appalachia?
So it is with life. Just as the literal devastation of places so far away from the origination of Hurricane Helene in late September 2024 wreaked destruction, ill-advised life choices can have consequences for not only those who made the choice, but others who might be collaterally affected.

Missing in Action

 POW MIA Flag AdobeStock_520125258

According to Wikipedia, “Missing in action (MIA) is a casualty classification assigned to combatants, military chaplains, combat medics, and prisoners of war who are reported missing during wartime or ceasefire. They may have been killed, wounded, captured, executed, or deserted”. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency researches, investigates, recovers and identifies American service members who never returned from wars and various other operational loss incidents and whose bodies have never been found and identified.

The Circus Cart

It was an evening to remember. My Mamaw and Papaw had me come to their house to watch a circus on TV. Even though I was very small, I still remember all the colors, clowns, and the daring feats as the trapeze artists flew through the air. Papaw cut up a watermelon and placed the pieces in a pie pan, so as we watched the circus, we ate and spit seeds in the pans. From that time on, I wanted to see another circus.

How to help with Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

Interstate 26 damage in Erwin. Photo by Billy Bowling, Emmy & Billy Portraiture and Landscape Erwin Tennessee

Interstate 26 damage in Erwin. Photo by Billy Bowling, Emmy & Billy Portraiture and Landscape Erwin Tennessee

As many of you are aware, five of our North East Tennessee (Johnson, Carter, Cocke, Unicoi, Washington, and Greene) counties were hit extremely hard, suffering catastrophic impacts from Hurricane Helene. The devastating damage caused by Hurricane Helene is still being evaluated. Our hearts go out to our friends and families affected by the unimaginable floods. Currently, Greene County has no water, as the system was washed away by the Nolichucky River during the flood. However, the counties are strong, and many relief efforts are underway to assist our friends and neighbors.

Work Based Learning: Proven pipeline to success

Josh Tharpe, Bryan Shoffner, Isaac Collins, John Fugate, Joanie Brock at the annual CTE end of year banquet in May 2024.

Josh Tharpe, Bryan Shoffner, Isaac Collins, John Fugate, Joanie Brock at the annual CTE end of year banquet in May 2024.

In 1996, a young man from Union County’s Horace Maynard High School set out to explore the field of diesel mechanics. Since the options for continued education in this field were more limited at that time, this Union County native attended a trade school in Middle Tennessee, later returning to his hometown as he ventured to begin his career.
Securing a position in Knoxville in 1997, this young man began his professional journey as a diesel mechanic and began trudging through the technical and personal skill development that would promise him a long and lucrative career.

Mattress Making in 1940

First mattress making in Blue Springs Hollow. Union County Tennessee.

Mattress making in Blue Springs Hollow. Union County Tennessee.

In 1940, Agent Moore launched the Mattress Project in Union County, utilizing cotton made available through the surplus Government Commodity Department. Families that once relied on straw-stuffed beds could now enjoy the luxury of cotton mattresses. In its first year, the project produced 931 mattresses, and by 1941, that number had surged to 2,600.

Memories

Country Connections By James and Ellen Perry
“Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind
Memories sweetened through the ages just like wine
Quiet thoughts come floating down
And settle softly to the ground
Like golden autumn leaves around my feet
I touched them and they burst apart with sweet memories
Sweet memories

From There To The Ground

Luke 19:1-10 KJV – 1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 And, behold, there was a man named Zacchæus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. 3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. 4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchæus, make haste, and come down; for today I must abide at thy house. 6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.

Three Tips to Reduce Lower Back Pain for the Hybrid Worker: Part I

Do you experience regular back pain? You’re not alone. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, more than 1 in 4 working adults experience low back pain.

Not only is it painful, but studies show that back pain can limit your activities and impact your ability to work. In fact, the health policy institute found it to be a leading cause of work-loss days, with 83 million days of work lost per year.

Mayor Bailey offers changes to 911 Board

Mayor Jason Bailey

Mayor Jason Bailey recently learned that the Union County 911 Board was not appointed according to state requirements. When he became mayor, there were and still are not any local bylaws so he just followed traditions and filled vacancies as they arose. But new learning brought change to the 911 Board at the September Union County Commission meeting.

New middle school officially under construction

HMMS teachers and staff prepare to turn over a shovel of dirt at the groundbreaking ceremony.

On September 4, the HMMS teachers and staff along with the Union County School Board, Union County government, the Lewis Group and Merit Construction employees and the Latham-Davis Family broke ground for the new middle school. According to Director Greg Clay, the school system has decided to keep the name Horace Maynard since it was first established 100 years ago, first as the high school and then as a middle school in 1997.

Plainview discusses property regulations

Alderman Josh Collins, Mayor Lynn Beeler and Planning Commission Chairman Stone discuss property concerns.

Plainview held its regular Planning Commission meeting followed by the Board of Aldermen meeting last month. Much of the discussion in both meetings centered around property concerns and associated fees. The board revisited the building permit fees and asked Stewart Skeen to further investigate the previous action on manufactured homes and double wide trailers. Skeen is checking on any state requirements for permits and inspections.

20th Heritage Festival gives tribute to Grandpa

Just trying to get that pesky tractor to start up. One more try, Deere! Got to get the hay cut.

The theme of the Union County Heritage Festival on October 5 is Remembering Grandpa. The 20th annual event will immerse you in all things that remind you of the most lovable grandfathers you can imagine―from eating hot, freshly baked cornbread and pie to admiring finely handcrafted bowls and woodcraft. Check the centerfold of Historic Union County for the complete program.

The Whittler is 2024 Heritage Festival collectible print

The Whittler, Union County Heritage Festival Collectible Print by Betty Bullen.

Inspired by memories of curled shavings piled on the porch or under the tree to be caught by little children or the wind, “The Whittler” reminds us of a time when grandpas and many of the men would gather to tell stories, swap Case knives, and whittle.

UC 4-H excels in inaugural Eastern Region Goat Show

Madison Cole, Briar Smith, and Reed Reno

Madison Cole, Briar Smith and Reed Reno

Three Union County 4-H youths proudly represented their county at the inaugural Eastern Region Goat Show, held at the Tennessee Valley Fair last month.
Competing for the first time in this prestigious event, these young participants demonstrated skill, dedication and sportsmanship across multiple categories.
In the Showmanship competition:
- Madison Cole earned 2nd place in the Senior Level I division.
- Briar Smith secured 4th place in the Junior Level division.
- Reed Reno captured 3rd place in the Explorer Level division.

Ironweed

While considered a pasture weed by farmers, Ironweed is an important food source for many pollinator species

While considered a pasture weed by farmers, Ironweed is an important food source for many pollinator species

Ironweed (Veronia altissima) is the purple flowers you see growing on a tall, slender stalk in pasture and hay fields while driving down the road.

Ironweed can grow to a height of 7 to 10 feet in deep moist soils, but usually averages around 5 feet. The stem of the plant is very hard and stiff, hence the name. Spear shaped leaves around 6 inches long grow all along the length of the stem.

TAEP application period October 1-7

The Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program cost share program will be accepting applications October 1-7. This program, established in 2005, has helped farmers in Union County and across the state of Tennessee. More than $1.27 million has been invested in 424 producer projects from 2005 through 2023 in Union County. Each TAEP dollar generates $6.55 in local economies.

UC 4-H youth grills, wins at competitions

Eastern Region 4-H Grill Master Competition. Back- Colt Davis, Paycen Dodd, Elizabeth Tindell, Carson Hayes, and Lexxi Cummings. Front- Cameron Hayes, Rhys Lamb, Aspen Davis, and Harlynn Dodd.

Eastern Region 4-H Grill Master Competition. Back: Colt Davis, Paycen Dodd, Elizabeth Tindell, Carson Hayes and Lexxi Cummings. Front: Cameron Hayes, Rhys Lamb, Aspen Davis and Harlynn Dodd.

Union County 4-H members recently showed off their grilling talents in two exciting events, displaying their culinary skills and competitive spirit.
1st Annual Union County 4-H Grill Team Competition
Last month, local 4-H members gathered for the Fall Palooza at the Union County Farmers Market for the inaugural Union County 4-H Grill Team Competition. These talented young grillers, split into two divisions, impressed the crowd with their mastery over the grill.
Junior Division Results:
- 1st Place: Harlynn Dodd (poultry)
- 2nd Place: Aspen Davis (pork)

UC FCE attends regional; Glenmore Mansion tour upcoming

Carol Pratt's 1st place Fashion Revue item

Carol Pratt took home a blue ribbon for creating a fashion item.

The September Family and Community Education (FCE) meeting took place at the Eastern Region FCE Fall Gathering, hosted by Campbell and Anderson Counties at the Lafollette Church of God in Lafollette, TN. Thank you to our hosts for organizing such a memorable event!
The gathering included the Regional Cultural Arts and Fashion Revue contests, where participants from various counties showcased their skills. Congratulations to the winners, who will advance to the State FCE Cultural Arts and Fashion Revue contests.
Cultural Arts Contest Results:

4-H Chick Chain wraps up with successful auction

Chick Chain winners. Left to right- Asher Effler, Ariona Payne, Dixie Ray, Jude Firkin, Jepson Haynes, Presley Lay, Zyon Copeland, Sarah Stokely-Cook (4-H Agent), and Cooper Bowman.

Chick Chain winners: Asher Effler, Ariona Payne, Dixie Ray, Jude Firkin, Jepson Haynes, Presley Lay, Zyon Copeland, Sarah Stokely-Cook (4-H Agent) and Cooper Bowman.

The Union County 4-H annual Chick Chain Auction took place at Trevor Jones Livestock Auction, and it was nothing short of a success. Despite the forecast hinting at rain, the skies stayed clear throughout the event, allowing the auction to proceed without a hitch—though we were well-prepared with covered accommodations.

Veterans dinner October 7

One of many Lasagna recipes. (Photo by sunorwind on Unsplash)

Union County veterans, prepare yourself for a delicious Italian feast of lasagna, garlic bread and homemade desserts. On Monday, October 7, at 6 p.m. sharp, the Smoky Mountain 4-H Club will be honored to prepare and serve our veterans this special meal.
Veterans and spouses of veterans are invited to enjoy the feast at the American Legion building on Veteran St. in Maynardville.

On the Outs

The young lady caught her high school principal’s eye the moment she walked through the door of the building. She was seemingly swarmed by a crowd of boys who were more than appreciative of the dress she had chosen to wear to school that day. They were checking her “out” for sure.
The principal, who was in a race to reach retirement, was born in the “old days.” It seemed to his students and a lot of the community that the hospital, the nursing home, and the grave were in a race to see which would check him “out” first.

Beans and Rice Salad

Bean and Rice Salad Artwork by Shirley McMurtrie

You need several hearty salads in your recipe collection to take the place of potatoes in your menu. They are usually cold salads, so can be made ahead of the planned meal. In a large mixing bowl, combine everything but the dressing. Pour dressing over mixture and toss to coat. Cover and chill until serving time or up to 24 hours. Makes 16 servings. Note: The pimiento and cheese adds color.

Use Care When Lifting

It’s sometimes unavoidable that we have to lift a heavy or cumbersome object. Using some basic precautions, you can minimize the likelihood of pulling a muscle or otherwise injuring yourself in the process of lifting.

The most important thing to remember is to bend at the knees when lifting a heavy weight. Let your leg muscles do the lifting. If you bend at the waist and straighten up with the weight, you’re making your back muscles bear the weight.

Going Down

Did you get into trouble a lot when you were a child? I usually didn’t, but there was this one time my momma was really upset with me and my cousin Jimbo.

Union County Lions assist with vision testing

At Station 2, medical history, blood pressure and list of medications is recorded by Lion Volunteer Debbie. Translator Christian helps with explanations.

Once a month, generally the third Wednesday of each month, volunteers from Lions clubs all over East Tennessee gather at the Fountain City Lions Club to test the vision of folks who cannot afford eye exams and glasses. Two of the Union County Lions, Debbie Sylvia-Gardner and Shirlee Grabko, participate every month in various duties.

Progress in Farming

In 1938, local farmers tried to keep up with the changing times with help from the Extension Office. Automobiles were replacing horse-and-buggy transportation, and new, modern ways were emerging. Other programs assisting Union County residents included the Home Supply Program, the Victory Committee, the War Bond Drive, and the Red Cross Campaign. The Depression was ending, and people were seeking employment in ways other than farming. The Extension Office assisted farmers by helping them purchase new farm equipment, such as tractors.

Have Seeds Will Travel

Baneberry Dolls Eyes Photo by Steve Roark

Baneberry Dolls Eyes

Plant life is absolutely lush in our part of the world. If land is not paved or has a building on it, it usually has plants growing on it or trying to get a toe hold, which brings up the topic of how plants spread if they are literally rooted to the ground? The answer is in seed design, and several ingenious mechanisms are used to allow plant embryos (seeds) to move away from the shadows of their mother plant.

Roadblock for American Legion October 5

Boxes of groceries for Union County veterans from the American Legion Post 212

The Union County American Legion has one fundraiser a year to help pay for their many projects, and that fundraiser is coming up on Saturday, October 5, from 8 a.m. until noon. They will be at the intersection of Maynardville Hwy. and Hickory Star Rd. asking for your donation. On your way to the Union County Heritage Festival, grocery shopping or just driving around, please go by this intersection and help our American Legion help our Union County veterans, many of whom are alone and/or incapacitated, and donate what you can to the American Legion Post 212.

Thursday October 3, 2024 10 am - 7 pm

Tri-County Honor Guard serves at the funeral of Union County Veteran

Thursday October 3, 2024

WATE 6 On Your Side is proud to once again to be partnering with Operation Honor Guard, a 501(c)(3) organization with their annual donation drive. It is the goal of all Honor Guards to offer a last tribute of respect to their departed comrades by rendering military funeral honors to any honorably discharged veteran, without any regard to sex, race, color, creed, national origin, or military rank. There is no cost to the family for this service.

Gardening classes offered in October

Attention Tennessee Gardeners
We have an exciting opportunity for you. Join us for the Welcome Home to My Tennessee Garden series, held on Mondays: October 14, 21, 28, and November 4, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
In this series, you will learn about:
• Soils and Climate
• Lawns
• Flowering Plants
• Shrubs and Trees
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your gardening skills, this class is perfect for you.
Location: 2721 Maynardville Highway, Maynardville, TN 37807

Master Beef Class upcoming

Attention Beef Cattle Farmers: UT Extension Union County is excited to announce that we will be hosting the Tennessee Master Beef Producer Program this October and November. This comprehensive educational initiative is designed to help Tennessee cattle producers enhance the profitability of their cow-calf operations.

1937 Extension Home Demonstration Clubs

4H Club Girls, Camp Big Ridge Park. Girls returning from hike. Union County Tennessee.

4H Club Girls, Camp Big Ridge Park. Girls returning from hike. Union County Tennessee.

In 1937, the first Achievement Day took place in Union County. It was created to showcase the many crafts such as rug making that Home Demonstration Clubs created. They made quilts and much much more. They did this at the local high school. Weather effected the turnout out, so the following year (1938) Chairperson Pearl Snodderly. had 54 women compete from the various communities where they met.

Cool season cover crops improve garden soil

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Cool season cover crops offer numerous benefits for gardening and farming, especially in regions where summer conditions can be less favorable. These crops improve soil structure and fertility by adding organic matter, which enhances water infiltration and nutrient retention, crucial for subsequent crop growth.
They also establish quickly, effectively suppressing weeds by competing for light, water and nutrients, thereby reducing the need for herbicides.

Plant of the Month

Gaillardia, also known as blanketflower, comes in a variety of species and performs well through the summer and fall in rock gardens, pollinator plots or native plant collections.

Gaillardia, also known as blanketflower, comes in a variety of species and performs well through the summer and fall in rock gardens, pollinator plots or native plant collections.

The blanketflower is a dazzling little plant that is easy to grow, easy to combine and easy to love. With its long flowering time, gorgeous coloring and tolerance to summer heat, it’s a powerhouse sure to be a treasure all year long.

FILL 'ER UP!

 Goat cart and 15 cent gas

We all have memories of unusual things. Well, I remember when you could buy gas cheap, really cheap . That was back in 1940, a long time ago. Don’t believe me? I have the picture to prove it. Mother took a picture of goats pulling some sort of contraption. The gas station sign happened to be in the picture, too. There it is – anti-knock for fourteen cents per gallon and ethyl for fifteen cents per gallon. For a penny more, you got their better grade. Do you remember when the engine would knock if you used too low a grade of gasoline? I do.

Events

Soil Health for Organic Systems

Soil health experts from the Natural
Resources Conservation Service will
teach the basics of soil health principles,
and their context within organic
management systems. Presentations may
identify barriers, challenges, and
potential solutions for fostering soil
health on organic operations at any scale.
Participants will learn hands-on low-cost
methods for assessing soil health in a
field setting. Instructors will also cover
advanced soil testing for soil health
indicators and interpretations. Field

Big Ridge Bluegrass is August 16

Big Ridge State Park will be hosting its 43rd annual Bluegrass Festival on Friday, August 16. The music will start at 6 p.m. and will rcontinue until 10:30. There will also be food trucks and a variety of craft vendors. The event is free to the public.
Performances By: Norris Freeway, Tennessee Brushfire, Scrap Iron, The Beason Family, The Teno Family and John Alvis.

University of Tennessee Steak & Potatoes Field Day

CROSSVILLE, Tenn. — The annual Steak and Potatoes Field Day presented by the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture will include topics of interest to beef cattle producers, fruit and vegetable producers and land managers. Throughout the morning, experts from both UT AgResearch and UT Extension will share their knowledge to help producers enhance their operations.
This in-person field day is scheduled for Thursday, August 22, 2024, at the Plateau AgResearch and Education Center.

UCCC Under the Tree Distribution December 7

Treasurer Brooke Simpson, Chairperson Gina Gilbert, Chief Elf Carol Pratt, and a host of volunteers will be distributing toys and gifts from Under the Tree, a project of Union County Children's Charities, on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The big orange applications will be sent by the end of August to be returned before the end of September. Wish Trees will be set up on November 1 at Food City and surrounding businesses. As toys and gifts are donated, the elves will be bagging the them for the Saturday, December 7 Distribution Day.

Overdose Awareness and Memorial Service

PLEASE JOIN US
"Loved and Lost"
3rd Annual InternationalOverdose Awareness Day Candlelight Service
Remembering those loved and lost to substance use disorder
iF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD YOUR LOVED ONE'S NAME AND/OR PICTURE TO OUR MEMORIAL BOARD, EMAIL US AT Samantha.brantley@unioncountytn.gov
Saturday August 31, 2024 7:30 - 9 PM
Miller's Chapel (across from McDonald’s) 2719 Maynardville Hwy., Maynardville, TN 37807
This project is funded under a grant contract provided by the

Women's Fall Backpacking Workshop

Women's Fall Backpacking Workshop at Norris Dam State Park

Join Ranger Holly Frerichs for an overnight experience in the backcountry! This is a beginner-friendly workshop for women where we will learn best practices for overnight camping and some survival tactics. The hike to the campsite is 3.5 moderate miles in and the same route back out. This workshop is open to women and girls 15 and older.

Obituary

Kenneth George Hayes

Kenneth George Hayes-age 84 of Maynardville passed away peacefully Thursday, October 10, 2024, at his home. He was a member of Mountain View Church of God of the Union Assembly, Luttrell. Kenneth was retired from the U.S. Navy after 30 years of serving. He was the owner of Hayes Hollow Apiary. Preceded in death by his wife, Mary Hayes; parents, George A. and Billie Virginia (Goss) Hayes; sister, JoAnn Human; brother-in-law, Leonard Ray Johnson.

Josie Rhea Rauhuff

Josie Rhea Rauhuff-age 15 of Corryton passed away suddenly October 8, 2024. She was born January 23, 2009 at UT Medical Center. She had the biggest heart and a dark sense of humor. She loved drawing, music, parkour, Lego’s, puzzles and playing with her dog Ceasar and cat Asher. There was never a dull moment with “Jo” around.

She is survived by her parents, Jerry and Lori Rauhuff; sisters, Kelsey Davis (David), Serena Buckner (Dillion), Abigail Rauhuff; nieces and nephews, Harper, Lincoln, Aria, Ryder; grandmother and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Aundra Dawnella Shoffner

Aundra Dawnella Shoffner-age 57 of Sharps Chapel passed way Tuesday morning, October 8, 2024, at her home. She was born April 7, 1967, at Oak Knoll Navel Hospital in Oakland, California and was a member of Oak Grove Primitive Baptist Church, Sharps Chapel. Aundra was a former employee of D.T.R. in Tazewell. She was a graduate of Dixon High School, Jacksonville, North Carolina. Aundra was a loving and caring person who was hard working and had a great sense of humor.

Bill Howard

Bill Howard-age 87 of Tazewell, Tennessee, formerly of Luttrell was born in Ages, Harlan County, Kentucky and passed away on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at LaFollette Medical Center. He was a member of the Tazewell Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, John H. and Nannie Howard; and his wife, Lena Howard.

Bill served in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged. By occupation Bill worked for the Phone Company, was a Coal Miner, and then worked for Straight Creek Boat Dock.

Betty Lou Nicley

Betty Lou “Speedy” Nicley – age 89 of Washburn, passed away October 8, 2024 peacefully at home. She was a member of Central View American Christian Church. She was cherished by so many and will be remembered for her love and kindness. Betty enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, camping, gardening, coloring and any sport involving her grandchildren.

Charlotte Elaine Daniels

Charlotte Elaine Daniels-age 73 of Sharps Chapel passed away Friday, October 4, 2024 at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center. She was a member of Oak Grove Primitive Baptist Church in Sharps Chapel and she loved all of her church family. Graduate of Horace Maynard High School, Class of 1969. Preceded in death by parents, Bonder and Ruth (Lay) Daniels; sister, Jann Longmire.

Harold W. Hundley

Harold W. Hundley – age 78 of Maynardville, passed away Tuesday evening, October 1, 2024 at Beverly Park Place Healthcare. He was saved at the age of 11 at Cedar Ford Baptist Church. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl Edward and Mary Violet (Anderson) Hundley; sisters, Betty Corum, Elaine Bates and husband Coy, Kaye Courtney, Carole Booker; brother, Carl Edward Hundley, Jr.; nephew, Gary Chandler.

Kathy Ann Ailor

Kathy Ann Ailor-age 74 of Knoxville passed away Monday, September 30, 2024 at her Sertoma Center Home in Knox County. She was born June 27, 1950 in Knoxville, TN to Jack Ailor and Myrtle Lynch Ailor.

She lived her entire life with severe Cerebral Palsy and multiple health impairments and needed around the clock assistance and guidance. For the last many years, this high level of care, concern and love has been administered by the Sertoma Center staff which has been greatly appreciated by Kathy’s entire family.

Eltha Ellan Essman

Eltha Ellan Essman – age 75 of Maynardville, passed away Saturday, September 28, 2024 at North Knoxville Medical Center. She was a member of Grace Full Gospel Baptist Church. Preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Retha (Miller) Moore; husband, Calvin Essman; daughter, Karen Raley; granddaughter, Lavonda Nicley. Several brothers.

Ruby Jean (Graves) Neely

Ruby Jean (Graves) Neely-age 85 of Maynardville passed away Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Claiborne Health and Rehab. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Maynardville. Preceded in death by husband, Dewey Neely; parents, Leslie and Ann (Dykes) Graves; brothers, Roy Graves, Bill Graves, Charlie (Red) Graves; sisters, Pearl Kitts, Bertie Campbell, Jess Graves, Loretta Padgett.

Alice Emmett Roark

Alice Emmett Roark-age 71 of Sharps Chapel passed away Saturday, September 28, 2024 at her home. She was of the Baptist faith. Preceded in death by parents, Ben and Bessie Gibson; two husbands, Bill K. Emmett, Lane A. Roark and four stillborn children. Brothers: Paul Gibson, Eddie Gibson, Benny Gibson, Tommy Gibson, Doug Gibson and Kenneth Gibson.

"Miss Ava" Rose Hensley

“Miss Ava” Rose Hensley-age 6 of the Washburn community of Grainger County passed away Wednesday morning, September 25, 2024 at her home. She was a true angel that shared her love with others for 6 years. She touched so many hearts we could not have imagined, and we know she was one that went straight to heaven. Fly high Ava Rose!!

She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Sara Wolfe, Ronald and Sue Reynolds; uncle, Donal Ray Reynolds.

Florence Evelyn (Hickman) Baumann

Florence Evelyn (Hickman) Baumann-age 70 of Kodak went to be with her loved ones Wednesday, September 18, 2024. She enjoyed crafting and crocheting and loved flowers and gardening. Preceded in death by her daughter, Melissa Bible; parents, William Willis and Edith Florence Hickman; brothers and sisters, Leroy, Donald, Paul-Eugene, Debra.

Catherine Louise Ralston

Catherine Louise Ralston – age 63 of Luttrell, went to be with the Lord Sunday, September 15, 2024. Catherine loved to do crafts and always loved to go shopping. She is preceded in death by her mother, Caroline Moray; sister, Patty Chilson.

She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Randy Ralston; daughters, Nena Ralston, Morgan Ralston, Cassie Ralston, Randi Kay Ralston, Chastity Ralston; son-in-law, Johnathan Matthews; 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, best friend, Kathy Satterfield; many nieces and nephews.

Fosteen Ray

Fosteen M. Ray-age 91 of Sharps Chapel went to be with her Lord peacefully Friday, September 13, 2024 at her home. She was a retired surgical technician with Claiborne Medical Center. Preceded in death by her first husband, Davis Wright; sons, Timothy Fannon and Michael Hooper; step-son, Darrell Ray; great-granddaughter, Megan Whitaker; one infant brother; aunt, Irene Lay.

Stanley Wynn

Stanley Wynn -- age 77 of Maynardville, passed away peacefully Friday September 13, 2024 at his home. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, George and Cora Wynn; sister, Ellen Helton, Lily Mae Middleton; brother, Earnest Wynn, and son Scott Wynn.

Shyrle Wyrick

Shyrle Wyrick-age 73 of Luttrell went to be with the Lord, Thursday morning, September 12, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, Corryton. She loved the Lord, her family and animals. Preceded in death by her husband, Sebe Frank Wyrick; parents, Johnny Frank and Dora D. Beeler; brother, Johnny Lee Beeler; sister, Mary Beeler; brothers, Jerry Beeler, Jeff Beeler.

Blanche Munsey

Blanche Munsey-age 86 of Washburn passed away Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Claiborne Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was a member of Dutch Valley Baptist Church. Preceded in death by her husband, Carson Munsey; children, John Munsey, Lou Alama Graves; parents, Harvey and Leona McMurray; brothers, Austin, Robert, and Cecil McMurray; sister, Madge Workman.

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