A thank you to good neighbors

Submitted by James and Ellen... on Mon, 02/01/2021 - 22:52

Country Connections By James and Ellen Perry
Zola Hurst
After my father returned from Europe at the end of World War II, he along with my mother and me moved to his home county that was Union County, Tennessee.
For two-and-a-half years they rented a home in the Central Peninsula that is now called the Chuck Swan Management Area. Then they moved to the Hacker place between Hickory Valley and Kettle Hollow.
In 1948 my father bought 140 acres which went down to the 1040 line on Norris Lake from the TVA. He then rented a house from Lamar and Josie Koontz next to the land he had bought. Every year for the next three years a new baby boy arrived.
Zola Hurst lived next to the Koontz place and my mother became good friends with Zola. Zola was older than my mother and she took her under her wing, so to speak. My mother grew up to the age of 17 in Southeast Alabama near the town of Columbia. The customs and living standards were entirely different from Union County, Tennessee.
Zola explained the Union County customs to my mother who was only 18 years old at the time. My father was 10 years older than my mother. When they had the time, my mother and Zola would meet at the fence corner and talk for hours.
Remember, there was no electricity, phones or televisions at this time. Most people had a battery-operated radio used for news, weather and the Grand Ole Opry and the Mid-Day Merry-Go Round. Zola was a good friend and mentor to my mother.
Walker and Lottie Edmondson
Walker and Lottie Edmondson were much older than my parents. I never knew them to own a car. During the 1940s and 1950s there were very few cars in Union County. Some farmers had pickup trucks or flatbed trucks.
East Tennessee’s economy was agricultural-based with burley tobacco being the most important local crop. Walker had a nice farm in the valley and when electricity came through, he gave my father a free right of way for a road into our property and for the KUB to run electric lines to our house.
My father built our house from trees he felled and had hauled to Wash Russell’s sawmill to be milled into lumber. It took my father three years, from 1948-1951, to build our home.
In 1957 my father went back to the VA hospital at Johnson City, Tennessee, in November and was a patient there until March of 1958. During the winter my mother caught the flu. She got very weak, went to bed and wouldn’t wake up.
I knew I didn’t have the experience to look after her. I worried she would die and finally walked down to Walker and Lottie’s for help.
Walker listened to me, then told Lottie she should go home with me and look after Johnnie until she got better. After seeing my mother, Lottie said, “Jimmy, do you have potatoes and onions?” We had plenty in the barn. Lottie made potato soup. I helped raise my mother off the pillow and Lottie fed her little spoonfuls of soup.
My mother slowly started getting better. Lottie stayed for over a week ’til my mother fully recovered. I would take food to Walker daily. Walker and Lottie were good neighbors.
We called her Aunt Lottie even though she was no kin to us. Aunt Lottie would pay me and my brothers five cents to gather a pillowcase full of ripe rabbit tobacco. She had asthma and swore sleeping on a pillow of rabbit tobacco helped her asthma spells. Could be.
Walker had an old Kentucky rifle with which he could win a lot of turkey shoots. He was proud of that muzzleloader and would let me hold it when I would visit. Walker and Lottie were fine people.
Lamar and Josie Koontz
Lamar and Josie Koontz had 16 acres of land with two old houses and one barn. Their place joined the land my father bought from the TVA. Lamar died a few years after we moved into our new home. He told Josie if she wanted to move after his death to sell their place to my father.
Josie followed Lamar’s wishes and sold it to my father. This gave us more pastureland plus three buildings. My father converted the old house into barns and animal stalls, hay storage, a tool room and for tobacco grading. Although Lamar died shortly after we moved into our new home, he helped my father a lot.
Will Russell
At Will Russell’s funeral the preacher said, “I can’t say a good word about this man, nor can I say anything bad. He is in the Lord’s Hands.” Well, preacher, I can say some good words about Will Russell as he taught me at the age of eight how to live off the land. He taught me how to use a trotline to catch fish. He taught me how to hunt for food although he did not recognize hunting seasons. Will was a mountain man, made and sold moonshine, lived a single simple life and always wore overalls, denim coats and brogans. He smoked his own rolled velvet cigarettes, mostly rolled from pokes. Will let me use his old Model 97 Winchester pump shotgun to hunt with if I gave him half the squirrels I took. Will always treated me with respect and tried to teach me his ways.
Sam and Nora Cook
Sam and Nora Cook’s farm joined my father’s farm on the northeast side and followed it to the top of the mountain. Sam rented some of his land to my father for tomato and watermelon production. We could take the tomatoes and watermelons to the farmer’s market in Knoxville to sell. Sam had lots of apple trees and a large black cherry tree near his home. He would let us pick apples and cherries after he and Nora put up what they needed. Sam let my mother park her old Ford car at his house. She would ride to work with Walt and Aileen Cook at the Porcelain Plant in Knoxville. Sam and Nora were good neighbors.
Walt and Aileen Cook
Walt Cook was married to my father’s sister Aileen. They had six children: Rose, Barbara June, David, Dan, Dianne and Angela. They were our cousins and the younger girls were like sisters to us.
Walt and my father would buy Walt’s 1946 Ford full of peaches and sell them to our neighbors during peach season. They would usually make enough to cover the gas and pay for their families peaches to preserve and put in the freezer. In early May when the carp fish were “shoaling” we would go to the backside of our farm on Walt’s Ford pick-up and fill the bed with carp. We would divide the carp. Daddy would skin the fish. My brother Larry and I would cut up the fish and carry all the heads, skin and entrails for the foxes to eat. Our mothers would can the chunks of carp with bones in ½ gallon mason jars to be used in the upcoming winter. Mother would make fish patties with the carp bones and meat ground up in a sausage mill. The fish patties tasted pretty good for a cold snowy December supper.
The two families worked well together. Daddy would borrow their mule or horse to team with ours to cut hay, rake hay or snake logs before daddy bought a crawler John Deere tractor.
Walt was enterprising — he bought the local school bus from Glen Hurst in about 1952 and operated the route for many years. My father drove the bus at different times. About 1955, Walt went to work at Knox Porcelain in Knoxville. A lot of local Union County residents went to work there.
Walt bought a new 1955 Ford Station Wagon and let neighbors ride to Knox Porcelain with him for $1.00 per day. It saved them money and paid for his new Ford.
I always found Walt to be considerate of others and always talked to me as an adult. Walt and my father also had another business enterprise I will not go into but to say that it caused his mule to become an alcoholic. More to come about the alcoholic mule in future issues.
Bessie Keller and Kennard
Bessie was Walt Cook’s sister and lived next to door to Walt and Aileen on Ridge Road. Bessie had two children, Francis and Jerry. Kennard died in the 1950s when Jerry was about eleven years old. Bessie was the cook at Rose Hill Elementary School. Rose Hill was a three-room building with two school rooms at ground level and a large basement under the east side. Someone, probably Cecil Butcher, came up with the idea to convert the basement into a lunchroom with a kitchen.
Bessie took the job as cook and made great meals for us kids. The meals sure beat egg or squirrel sandwiches. Bessie and the other ladies on Ridge Road traded hairdos. That’s where they would catch up on gossip. Bessie had a lot to put up with in her life but always was pleasant.
Jesse and Trula Hobock
Jesse Hobock was a man who did well by his family. Jesse came from West Tennessee and married Trula McBee and they had four children, J.L., Carolyn, Jerald and Marilyn. Jesse was a welder and worked for Dempster in Knoxville. Jesse also farmed.
He had the best farm in the area, kept it clean, raised cattle, tobacco and gardens. He provided for his family and had one of the best names around. Jesse always had a bull that the neighbors could take their cows to when they were “bulling.” Times have changed and there’s only Jerald and Marilyn left. The farm has been allowed to deteriorate.
Kyle and Helen Whited
Kyle and Helen Whited’s home was in Hickory Valley next to Jesse Hobock’s farm. Kyle worked in town and Helen was a schoolteacher. No not just a schoolteacher, but a very good special teacher. Helen taught at Rose Hill School while I attended there. Kyle kept a new car for Helen at all times. The only Henry J I ever saw she drove for her first year. The second year they bought a new German car called a Volkswagen. Their next car was a very nice 1953 Chevy Bel-Air 4-door sedan.
Like I said, Helen was a special teacher. She took sick kids home in her car many times while teaching at Rose Hill Elementary School. Her son Auble was younger than me, a good kid who didn’t cause any trouble. Auble was a “loner” at Rose Hill School.
Jerald Hobock and I decided to keep an eye on Auble as three older boys liked to pick on and aggravate him. Jerald and I didn’t tolerate that. They are all gone today but I’ll always remember them.
I am now sitting on my front porch on a nice day for January thinking back to my youth. I remember seeing old men sitting alone and starting to get that long ago look in their eyes, beginning to smile, then laughing as he remembers things from his youth or maybe later in his life.
Hank Williams wrote in one of his songs that memories are one thing man cannot destroy. I would often wonder what that old man was reliving in his memory. Today I am doing the same as that old man, remembering neighbors long gone, but still alive in my memories. Thank all you good neighbors of long ago.

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One Soldier's Story

Submitted by James Sallings on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:45
Joseph Edward Sallings

During World War II there were 12,000 heavy bombers shot down. Two-thirds of Allied bomber crews were lost for each plane destroyed. Over 100,000 Allied bomber crewmen were killed over Europe. Six bomber crewmen were killed for each one wounded.

More U.S. servicemen died in the Air Corps than the Marine Corps. While completing the required 30 missions, your chance of being killed was 71 percent. From June 6, 1944 to May 8, 1945 in Europe the Allies had 200,000 dead and 550,000 wounded.

The Stiners' movie theaters entertained our area in days gone by

Submitted by Sherrie Wilson on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:42
Clifford Stiner's Movie Theather in Maynardville Tennessee.

Clifford Stiner's Movie Theather in Maynardville Tennessee.

By Sherrie Wilson
There’s a little old white building located on Main Street across from Maynardville Elementary School which is the remnant of a time gone by. It was once a theater in the 1940s and early 1950s. The theater on Main Street was built and run by Clifford Stiner.

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God transforming lives 'Beneath The Cross'

Submitted by Michelle Pratt on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:42

The old house on the corner of Hwy. 61 and Walter St. in the heart of Luttrell has a transformation story to tell. Noticeably, as you drive through Luttrell on Hwy 61 there are two markers that announce the purpose of the old house. The first is a large white sign that reads Beneath the Cross Mission - a name given to this special place in a dream from God. The second is a large cross that stands as a reminder of our Salvation paid for by Jesus Christ’s death on the cross.

Truett Davis brings flavor to the National Cornbread Festival

Submitted by Gina Davis on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:37

Truett Davis with his National Cornbread Festival ribbon.

Truett Davis competed in the National Cornbread Festival Youth 4-H Cookoff in South Pittsburgh,Tenn., and was a Top 10 national finalist. He followed his recipe to a T, made a great impression with the judges and delighted some of the audience with his savory masterpiece, Cinnamon Roll Cornbread. He came home with a nice cash prize as well as other great prizes, including the 2024 festival's special edition Lodge skillet.

Plainview cemetery right of way issue continues

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:37

Mayor Gary Chandler listens as Commissioner Josh Collins explains the location of the new cemetery right of way on Periwinkle Road.

Joy Wallace again appeared before the Plainview Planning Commission on April 9. After she expressed her gratitude, she noted that she had consulted with relatives of persons buried in the Elbert Wyrick Cemetery, owners of plots yet to be used, public officials, as well as Eddie Perry, who submitted the development plat to Plainview in 2021 that ultimately labeled the cemetery right of way abandoned.

Commission needs private act to increase building fees

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:34

In the April 22 meeting Union County Commission learned that a private act would be needed to increase building permit fees. Recently the budget committee recommended raising the fees, but further investigation of the process found that when commission raised the cost of a building permit, it violated its own private act.

BOE hears building updates, budget increases, policy changes

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 10:31

At the Union County Board of Education Meeting on April 11, Director Greg Clay reported that the architects sent the final plans for the new middle school to the state fire marshal. When the fire marshal approves the plans, they will be sent out for bids.
He also explained that the highway safety evaluation-noted improvements would be needed on John Deere Drive, Beeler Gap Road, and Pine Street. The Pine Street and Highway 33 intersection will also need to be upgraded and a traffic signal is being considered.

UCHS tennis excels in district tourney

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:52

Jace Walker, UCHS tennis coach Mike Johnson, assistant coach Ella Johnson, Dalton Schreieck. Jace and Dalton played in the district semifinal match.

In 2023, UCHS tennis barely had enough players to compete. This year, however, team effort and good coaching took them to the semifinals of the Division 1 Class A District Semifinal on May 2-3 at Pigeon Forge High School.
Third seed doubles team junior Jace Walker and senior Dalton Schreieck for Union County breezed past Pigeon Forge’s sixth seed Hutchison and Bohanan in the first round 8-4. Then Walker and Schreick eliminated Pigeon Forge’s #2 seed Naas and Lopez 8-6 to advance to the semifinal round to play the first seed doubles team from L&N Stem Academy.

The lumbar spine

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:51

The spine is divided into three areas: the cervical spine, which is, essentially, the neck; the thoracic spine, which is the upper back, and the lumbar spine, which is the lower back. The spinal cord runs through the individual vertebra — the bones that make up the spine — and nerves emanate between those bones to the various parts of the body, carrying signals from and to the brain.

Union County Pre-K registration open

Submitted by Staff on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:50

An interview with Sharps Chapel Pre-K teacher, Erica Berry
Tell me a little about the history of Union County Pre-K programs. “Union County Public Schools has proudly offered high-quality Pre-K programs since 2006. This state grant is written and reapplied for every year and now extends to all five elementary schools. Each program serves a maximum of 20 students each year. We have had several wonderful people serve on our Community Pre-K Advisory Council (CPAC), who laid a strong foundation for us to build upon.

UC 4-H Clover Bowl winners to compete at UTK

Submitted by Abigail Thomas on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:49
5th grade Big Ridge Elementary School winners

5th grade Big Ridge Elementary School winners

On April 11, 4th and 5th graders from Maynardville, Paulette, Big Ridge, Sharps Chapel and Luttrell elementary schools gathered at Horace Maynard Middle School to compete in the Union County 4-H Clover Bowl. Each team previously won their in-school contest to qualify to represent their school in the county contest.

TCB 2

Submitted by Archie Wilson on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:19

A reader recently asked me, “What does a secular contemporary song title have to do with the Bible?”
Previously I attempted to explain why I was using song titles or slight modifications thereof as my article titles. Evidently my earlier explanation was inadequate, as even the editors changed the title on the previous article. So, I’ll take another stab at explaining why I chose a modern song title as my article title.

Poke salad, a mountain tradition

Submitted by Steve Roark on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:18
A mountain tradition is to eat newly sprouted Poke stems, which must be picked and prepared properly.

A mountain tradition is to eat newly sprouted Poke stems, which must be picked and prepared properly.

A family tradition my mom kept was to seek out young poke sprouts in the spring and make poke salad, a king of cooked greens. Back before grocery store chains and refrigeration, country folk came out of winter craving a fresh green to eat, and poke was one of the newly sprouted plants that were sought out, along with “creesies” or spring crest. The lack of fresh green vegetables during the winter months ...

The Trail to a Cherokee Ambush

Submitted by Wayne Goforth on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:18

It was just before dawn when Peter tumbled out of bed to start his day. He moved as quietly as possible so as not to wake his four children sleeping in the loft of the small cabin. He and other men of the settlement had worked hard to complete the cabin before the cold winter weather set in.
Situated near the Clinch River, on the side of Lone Mountain, and neighboring the Sharps Station blockhouse, it was an ideal location for raising crops in the warm months and hunting in the winter.

Down Home Baked Beans

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:15

Preheat oven to 350 F. Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until browned and crisp, about 10 minutes. Remove bacon and drain. Reserve 1 tablespoon of drippings in skillet. Cook chopped sweet onions in drippings over medium heat until softened, about 7 minutes. Stir into skillet the beans, brown sugar, ketchup and cooked bacon. Pour mixture into an 8-inch square baking pan. Bake uncovered, until heated through and bubbly, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Dogs I Have Known

Submitted by James and Ellen... on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:12
James Perry

“No, No, Tip,” is from a 1940s -1950s primer school book called “Tip and Mitten.” Tip was, as best I can remember, a devilish scatter-brained puppy who romped and played as most puppies do.
Tip was a boy dog puppy who was scolded for his antics. Tip’s buddy was a kitten named Mitten. Those primer books were written by Paul McKee, who was a professor at the Universities of Iowa and North Colorado. Tip was my first dog encounter.

Covered Up

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:11

My daddy taught me how to play ball and to not be afraid of it. But as for my momma, she taught me not to go out into public unless I looked my best. While that included when I wasn’t feeling well, being in pain was another story.

Your Peppers are Pickled, Peter Piper!

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:09

In the 1900s means for communicating changed drastically. Initially, telephones were one to a house (for those who could afford them). They were connected on “party lines,” meaning that several people shared service. Anyone could listen to the conversations of anyone who had access to the line.
Not only was there no expectation of privacy in this manner, but the phone in a home was usually centrally located in the house where anyone could hear at least one end of any conversation.

Popular Programs Resume as Farmers Market Opens

Submitted by Beth Bergeron on Wed, 05/01/2024 - 15:53

UT Extension and the Union County Farmers Market are at it once again, partnering to create healthier, more active lifestyles. Opening Day at the market will be Saturday, May 4 with a Cinco de Mayo theme – come prepared for some fun! Due to more construction at Heritage Park and the pavilion, the market will be located in the Union County High School student parking lot for the 2024 season. Following are some of the popular programs to look forward to once again this year.

The Union County Lions and the Farmer’s Market

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Wed, 05/01/2024 - 15:53

The Union County Lions Club will be setting up shop at the Union County Farmer’s Market on May 4, May 11 and May 18 !! We are so looking forward to meeting all the vendors and our neighbors who will be attending the market. We will have tickets for the Reverse Raffle for sale for $10 each for a $500, $1000 or $2000 prize. AND we will have tickets for The Freedom Concert with the popular Poet Voices and the UCHS Band for $20 each! If you have any eyeglasses or eye glass cases in good shape, there will be a drop off box for your donation!

Some causes of back pain

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Wed, 05/01/2024 - 15:53

A car accident or other serious trauma, like a fall, are likely causes of back pain. But the pain can develop from a variety of sources that are not quite so obvious. Here are a few of the conditions that can play a role in creating back pain:

Spinal stenosis: a narrowing of the space around the spinal cord. It’s a condition often caused by arthritis. In the narrowed chamber, pressure can build on the spinal cord.

Stuck on the Moon

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Wed, 05/01/2024 - 15:50

“Today, we’re going to use our imagination.” I was surprised to hear my management teacher start class this way. “Pretend you’re an astronaut on the moon and you have experienced a major problem. Should you try to make it back to the lunar module before it lifts off or stay where you are and try to survive? To help, you have a flashlight, a gun, and some matches.”

Morning Glory Muffins

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Wed, 05/01/2024 - 15:48

Arrange two racks evenly spaced in oven. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line two muffin pans with paper muffin liners. In large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil and vanilla. Add carrots, apple, pineapple, pecans coconut and raisins. Stir together. In medium bowl, stir together dry ingredients. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir just until combined.

Wild Ginger

Submitted by Steve Roark on Wed, 05/01/2024 - 14:06
Wild ginger (Asarum canadense)

Wild ginger (Asarum canadense)

Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is an interesting plant found in rich, moist, forested areas in deep hollows and drains. East and north facing lower slopes are its favored habitat, where it can be widespread.

Ginger has a stem (called a rhizome) that grows low along the ground with pairs of heart shaped leaves sticking up through the leaf litter. The leaf stems are very hairy, and if you scratch around under the leaves from April to May you will find a brownish purple flower with three petals. If you break off a piece of the rhizome you will get a strong smell of ginger.

UCHS Band students excel!

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:57

Quentin Carroll and Landyn Hobbins

There are many interesting people living in Union County. Some of them are senior citizens with fascinating tales to tell from their lives. I also discovered a couple of impressive people who are seniors at our Union County High School. I’ve known musicians most of my (long) life. Very seldom have I met one who also writes music. Landyn Hobbins has been doing this for years. He is a emotional writer who believes that music is something that everyone can relate to, and that music connects people - especially during emotional highs and lows.

Study Says Use of Chiropractic Care Is Associated With Significantly Lower Risk of Filling an Opioid Prescription

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:49

The burden of spinal pain can be aggravated by the hazards of opioid analgesics, which are still widely prescribed for spinal pain despite evidence-based clinical guidelines that identify non-pharmacological therapies as the preferred first-line approach. Previous studies have found that chiropractic care is associated with decreased use of opioids, but have not focused on older Medicare beneficiaries, a vulnerable population with high rates of co-morbidity and polypharmacy.

Somebody's Knocking

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:41

As we say around here: “w\What runs in your family?” For some it’s music and others it may be sports. For my family, it’s strange stories.
My Mamaw Jo used to cringe as she told this story. One day she and Mamaw Girdle/Myrtle were busy cleaning house when they heard the old clock upstairs chime. Both of them were startled. It wasn’t because they didn’t realize the time. It was because the clock was broken and hadn’t worked for years. Mamaw Jo thought it was pretty, so she hadn’t thrown it away. Immediately Mamaw Girdle/Myrtle said: “Something is going to happen.” Shortly after that, ...

Golden

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:17

I was at the Union County Opry last Saturday. I was there to help sell concessions for the Union County Lions Club. I struck up a conversation with Debra Keck about all the rain we had received the previous week. That rain prevented me from mowing my yards. Now, on this lovely, sunshiny Saturday, I had been occupied all day with preparing for concession sales.

Chicken Noodle and Corn Chowder

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:15

Canned soup to the rescue again. This makes a quick and tasty lunch. Over medium heat, saute onions in margarine until soft but not browned. Stir in chicken noodle soup, water, cream style corn, evaporated milk and pepper. Heat not quite to a boil. Sprinkle each serving with chopped chives.

Macular Degeneration and Me

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:08

I have my eyesight checked every year. My poor eyes have been through so much. I try to keep on top of their care. I have had 2 detached retinas as well as a sceral buckle on my right eye. That is a rubber band holding the eyeball in the correct shape. A visceral hemorrhage came along with one of the detached retinas on my right eye as well. There is an extra strong lens over it to help it track with the left one.

The Extending Tick Season

Submitted by Steve Roark on Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:02

Tick season normally begins in Spring, but it seems to be backing up into the winter months.

Since I’m in the woods a lot it’s reasonable to assume that I would have more ticks get on board and use me as a meal. But the past couple of winters I have pulled ticks off every month of the year, including the winter months when they are normally dormant. That’s not right people! All of my bites have been deer tick, smaller and harder to see and feel crawling around. Now that your family is outside more with the warming weather, best start body checking yourself and the kids. Since it’s good to know your enemy, here is a rundown on the tick lifestyle.

Apple Grafting Class held March 28th

Submitted by Shannon DeWitt on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 10:02
shows hands of person grafting an apple tree

Photo taken by Shawn Hendrickson, Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry, Asst. District Forester-State Forests

Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry and the UT Extension Union County office hosted an apple grafting class in Chuck Swan State Forest. This collaborative event gave participants a hands-on opportunity to learn how to graft apple tree varieties onto different rootstocks. Class attendees took home at least 3 new apple tree varieties.

Bad News, Good News!!

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 10:01

Award-winning Southern Gospel group comes to Maynardville!

The Union County Lions Club annual concert on May 18, this year featuring The Poet Voices and The Browders, has had a major change. Through an unforeseeable and unexpected circumstance, the Browders will be unavailable for this concert – that’s the Bad News! The Good News is that the Poet Voices are still onboard to perform for you AND the ticket prices have changed dramatically!

Most Americans Have Never Tried Chiropractic Care: Part II

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 10:00

“Chiropractic care and physical therapy are among the best options we have for treating low back pain, and can help reduce reliance on treating pain with opioids and other pain medications,” said Eric J. Roseen, DC, PHD, Director of the Program for Integrative Medicine and Health Disparities at Boston Medical Center. “Guidelines released during the study period went from recommending these approaches as second line treatment, after other treatments fail, to first line treatment to be used before traditional pain medications.

Autism and Idioms- Idioms in a Literal World

Submitted by Isabella Humphery on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:59

Did you know that the month of April is Autism Awareness Month and we celebrated World Autism Day on April 2? As the number of autism diagnoses continues to rise there is an increase in awareness, but it seems at times that autism acceptance is a bigger issue. With the latest numbers from the CDC indicating that autism affects 1 in every 36 children, most families in the US have been impacted either directly or indirectly by an autism diagnosis. With the numbers on the rise, it is vital that we promote autism acceptance.

In the Attic

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:56
On the left, is me in my prom dress in 1983. On the right, is Sara wearing the same dress in 2008.

On the left, is me in my prom dress in 1983. On the right, is Sara wearing the same dress in 2008.

Being the geek that I am, I didn’t take any fun or interesting electives in high school. But my daughter Sara was more adventurous in that she signed up for the Drama Class.

Are You Insane?

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:40

I am sure that if you looked up the meaning of “insanity” in an honest-to-goodness printed dictionary that several meanings of the word would be found. There are some that would say it is insane to use a printed dictionary as it is now so much easier to “look it up on Google”.
One definition of insanity used lots in education and business is “doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result”.

Baked fish parmesan

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:38
Cat fish drawing by Shirley McMurtrie

I often forget how many ways a fish fliet can be prepared. Check this one out. Dip filets in lemon juice, then in a mixture of remaining lemon juice and mayonnaise. Combine Parmesan cheese and crushed potato chips. Place in shallow baking dish and bake in preheated 375 F. oven or 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily. Note: For variety, use a different flavored potato chip.

Trillium Trivia

Submitted by Steve Roark on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:33
Trilliums are one of the earliest flowers to bloom in the Spring, and are beautiful to behold.

Trilliums are one of the earliest flowers to bloom in the Spring, and are beautiful to behold.

One of the most beautiful wildflowers to see in the Spring are trilliums, which are members of the Lily family. They are easy to find this time of year in rich, moist woods along rivers, streams, and in deep hollows. There are several species growing in our area, and all are easy to identify. The average trillium is 12 to 18 inches tall with a stout, erect stem. At the top is a whorl of 3 broad leaves and a single flower with 3 petals. Most trilliums have a flower supported by a stem just above the leaves (botanists call this pedicellate). But sessile trillium, also known as toadshade, (Trillium sessile) has no flower stem and the 3 petals appear to come directly out of the leaves. The sessile trilliums I have found locally have yellow petals, but some are dark red. The leaves of sessile trilliums have whitish splotches.

The Browders

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 17:05

Dave, Tommy, Matthew and Sonya Browder

Brothers Matt and David Browder were young when they began traveling with their dad, Tommy Browder, in 1990. Matt recalls that at the age of 10 or 11 he actually began singing with his dad and around the age of 13 he learned three-part harmony. Tommy Browder had started singing gospel music at the age of 5, despite being stricken with polio. “My right hand was completely paralyzed from polio,” he recalls. Then one day, his thumb started working, then his fingers and then he regained enough strength in his right hand to be able to play the guitar.

Successful Hunt!!

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 17:02

Easter Egg Hunt in Wilson Park

Members of the American Legion Post 212 and their volunteers helped the Easter Bunny this year by stuffing plastic eggs for him to hide for Union County children. And hide he did! Over 60 kids descended on Wilson Park on an absolutely gorgeous Easter Sunday afternoon to find these eggs – and, boy, did they!! No matter how well the eggs were hidden, these young people (some with a little help from their parents) found all the eggs. Three of these eggs contained a $50 gift card to Walmart.

Most Americans Have Never Tried Chiropractic Care: Part I

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 16:57

Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and a major driver of healthcare costs in the United States, according to the World Health organization. Over the last 20 years, recommended treatment of low back pain has shifted from use of pain medications including opioids to early use of nonpharmacologic treatments such as spinal manipulation and therapeutic exercise, which are commonly provided by chiropractors and physical therapists.

From Where?

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 16:54

“Seek and ye shall find,” is a phrase I’ve heard most of my life. It’s taken from Matthew 7:7. Even though this verse refers to finding the Lord, it has been used in connection with searching for just about anything. Nowadays, many people dig into their family history in hopes of discovering who they are and where they came from. Also, they probably hope to find something amazing. My dad did just that years ago and I couldn’t believe it at first.

What's In a Day?

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 16:24

If you have children, you’ve probably asked them what happened at school, only to receive the standard reply, “Nothing.” I once received an email that pointed out that more pointed questions might elicit more conversation. The email suggested one hundred questions that parents/guardians could ask their children to stimulate discussion.

Creamy grape salad

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 16:22
Artwork By Shirley McMurtrie

For years, the only way I used table grapes was to eat them as a snack. Once I tasted a grape salad, I started looking for grape salad recipes. Here is one I like. In a mixing bowl combine grapes and set aside. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in remaining ingredients, except pecans and brown sugar. Combine brown sugar and pecans. Set aside. Pour grape mixture into 9 by 13 serving dish. Sprinkle brown sugared pecans over top. Chill overnight. Serve

The Bradford Pear Blues

Submitted by Steve Roark on Mon, 04/08/2024 - 16:16
Bradford Pears have become common along roadsides, and while pretty, they are invasive and aggressively compete with native trees for growing space. Their numbers are growing exponentially.

Bradford Pears have become common along roadsides, and while pretty, they are invasive and aggressively compete with native trees for growing space. Their numbers are growing exponentially.

You have no doubt noticed all the white flowering trees that have been putting on a show the past couple of weeks along roadsides, fence rows, and field edges. They are Bradford pears, a popular landscape tree, noted for their beautiful flower blitz, symmetrical round crowns, and supposedly sterile so as not to produce messy fruit to clean up. That last part was a total failure, and the tree has gone Frankenstein and spreading rapidly to become what is called an exotic invasive plant, and a threat to our native plants and even our farmlands. This wasn’t supposed to happen, so what the heck?

UCBPA 2024 Prayer Breakfast "Just Believe"

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 04/02/2024 - 22:47
Speaker at 2024 prayer breakfast, Suzanne Stelling

Suzanne Stelling, artist, baker, and author of The Woodbine Chronicles: A neighborhood love story, keynoted the 2024 UCBPA Prayer Breakfast.

From President Tammie Hill”s passage from Romans 8:32 “for all things work together for the good to them that know God” to the closing song Amazing Grace, the message of the 27th Annual Union County Business and Professional Prayer Breakfast on Good Friday, March 29, was “come together and ‘Just Believe.’”
Rev. Corey Carroll, Pastor of First Baptist Church, Maynardville, welcomed everyone to the gathering at the church and reminded them of the significance of Easter and the sacrifices that Jesus made.

UC raises funds for safe water in Uganda

Submitted by Desiree Hensley on Tue, 04/02/2024 - 22:44

UNION COUNTY, Tenn. (March 27, 2024) – Three local churches are sponsoring the 2024 Walk 4 Water Union County Fundraiser on Sunday, May 19.
St. Teresa of Kolkata Catholic Church, Irwin’s Chapel United Methodist Church and Miller’s Chapel United Methodist Church aim to help raise funds for two deep water wells for remote villages in Uganda that do not have access to clean, safe water. All funds raised will go toward the drilling of safe water boreholes for the villages of Kaseun and Amonikakinea B in Eastern Uganda.

Commission acts on two community center properties

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 04/02/2024 - 22:44

A community building and convenience center became one step closer to reality for Braden and Big Ridge during the Union County Commission March meeting. Commissioners Greg Dyer (5th District) and Dawn Flatford (4th district) have spent many months searching for suitable property. Two community landowners have risen to the challenge and offered land at reasonable prices. Danny Kilgore in Braden is willing to sell a nearly 2-acre property for $30,000. The property will need clearing, a well, and septic.

UC Little League gets 4 year use contract from BOE

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 04/02/2024 - 22:43

The Union County Board of Education approved a use contract for four years at the field located below the sheriff's office on Hwy 33. Mary Ann Stackhouse, attorney for the BOE, recommended the approval. Stackhouse will be retiring this year, but the Board also extended the services of her affiliated firm with different legal representation.

Events

Spring Tour With Museum Mike!

Submitted by Holly Frerichs on Thu, 05/02/2024 - 23:04

"Come by the Lenoir Museum at 1:00pm on Saturday's throughout the spring for a tour with Museum Mike! These tours will occur on a weekly basis. These tours are completely free, but please consider registering and donating to the Museum! 100% of your donation stays in our Lenoir Museum and is used for programs, interpretive displays, and other improvements. Thank you for your ongoing support!

Lost Creek Reunion is June 9

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Thu, 05/02/2024 - 23:03
Lost Creek Church

Anyone with ancestors who attended Lost Creek Church or have ancestors buried in Lost Creek Cemetery may want to mark June 9, 2024, on the calendar. Fred Gibson and members of the Union County Cemetery Association will hold a reunion at the new Union County Forestry Building at the entrance to Chuck Swan Wildlife Management Area.

Womens back country camping

Submitted by Holly Frerichs on Thu, 05/02/2024 - 23:07
Womens back county camping at Norris Dam State Park.

Join Ranger Holly Frerichs for an overnight experience in the back country! 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 miles in and the same route back out. It is a moderate trail but very beginner friendly. This workshop is open to women and girls 15 and older.

The Norris Lake Project’s March 23, 2024, Lake Cleanup

Submitted by LeahNe Thiele on Tue, 04/16/2024 - 10:02

By Renee Lowder & LeahNe' Thiele
Are you looking for a way to help your community and environment? Have you thought about volunteering every spring and fall to assist The Norris Lake Project (NLP) with Lake Cleanups?

It only takes a few hours, and it is very rewarding. You can learn more about The Norris Lake Project and the Lake Cleanups at www.norrislakeproject.com On Saturday, March 23, 2024, The Norris Lake Project had teams at four locations:

Freedom Concert Saturday May 18th at 7:00

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Thu, 05/02/2024 - 23:03
Southern Gospel, UCHS Band, Oak Ridge Boys tribute, patriotic music, Memorial Day

There will be a very special performance on May 18th, when the Union County High School Band will be sharing the stage with the Poet Voices, a professional Southern Gospel quartet. The Freedom Concert will include patriotic music to commemorate Memorial Day and to honor Americans, as well as Southern Gospel songs, and a tribute to the Oak Ridge Boys. Tickets are $20 at the Kitchen Design Center, at the Union County Opry May 4th performance of Con Hunley, at the Union County Farmer's Market on May 4th, 11th or 18th - or or at the door.

Free admission for all Active Duty Military and Veterans

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Thu, 05/02/2024 - 23:02

The Lions Club would like to invite all Active Duty Military and US Veterans as our guest to the Freedom Concert on May 18th at 7:00. Each Veteran may receive up to 2 free tickets from Veteran Service Officer Kevin Manley. VSO Manley may be contacted at 865-661-7243 or emailed at Kevin.Manley@UnionCountyTN. gov.

Lions Club Reverse Raffle

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Thu, 05/02/2024 - 23:03

Tickets are $10 each. All the money raised goes directly to the Lion Charities. Tickets can be purchased from Union County Lions members Kathy Chesney (865) 566-3289, Ronnie Mincey (865) 278-6430, Debbie Sylvia-Gardner (865) 603-5081 or Shirlee Grabko (865) 310-6874.

Walk4Water Union County May 19

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sun, 05/05/2024 - 23:09

Walk4Water Union County is seeking corporate sponsors and walkers to raise money for Ugandan wells that provide drinking water to villages where no clean water exists. Be a sponsor or just join the walk in Wilson Park on May 19. Register at w4ki.org/w4wunioncounty. Like us on Facebook:Walk 4 Water Union County.
Questions? Call Desiree Hensley, Chairperson, 657 203 4170.

Obituary

Jason Paul Clark

Jason Paul Clark-age 44 of Sharps Chapel passed away Monday, May 6, 2024 at home. He loved fishing, hunting and spending time with his family and friends. Preceded in death by his father, Gary Masingo; mother, Sandra Hobock; grandparents Roy “Mose” Clark, Joyce Clark, Big Johny and Marie Masingo; uncles, Kenny and Ronald Clark, Arlos Masingo, Little Johny Masingo; aunt, Debbie Clark.

Larry Jackson

Larry Jackson-age 72 of New Tazewell passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024. He was born April 10, 1952, in Holly Hill, South Carolina. Larry loved to be in the mountains, hunting and fishing with his son, spending time with his family and hanging out with his dogs. Larry was a proud member of the Santee Indian Organization. He was a hardworking man and spent his life as an electrician, real estate agent and truck driver.

Jonathan Dorrance

Jonathan David Dorrance – 46 of Maynardville, passed away Friday, May 3, 2024 at home surrounded by his family. He was self employed as a plumber. Jonathan was a U. S. Army Veteran and loved to fish.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Jason Dorrance. Jonathan is survived by wife, Holly; parents, Donald and Gaynell Dorrance; brother, Justin (Amy) Dorrance; sister, Jennifer (Mike) Prusik; nieces and nephews, Kylie and Tyler Prusik and Grayson, Blake and Luke Dorrance; and aunt, Joy Porter.

Terry Jay Rolen

Terry Jay Rolen-age 67 of Luttrell went to be with the Lord, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Terry was a good blacksmith who loved painting cars and collecting Zippo Lighters.

He is survived by his daughter, Shena Rouse; sons, Terry Shipley, James Rouse; sister, Kathy Hillard; brothers, Jack Rolen, James Rolen; girlfriend, Kimberly Rollins; stepchildren, Jason Bailey, Ashley Rollins, Brittney Rollins. Terry had many friends and family who loved him dearly.

Eula Estelle (Cook) Caldwell

Eula Estelle (Cook) Caldwell-age 87 of Corryton passed away Monday, April 29, 2024 at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center. She was a member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church in Maynardville. Preceded in death by husband, Clyde Caldwell; parents, Hobert and Mossie Cook; siblings, Edgar, Oval, Carlyle and Carolyn.

Burleigh Lewis

Burleigh Shelton Lewis, age 88 of Maynardville, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 29, 2024 at Fort Sanders Medical Center. He retired from the US Air Force after 22 years serving in Vietnam from 1966-1967. He then worked at Harris Corporation in Palm Bay, FL for 18 years. Burleigh is a 32nd Degree Mason with Masonic Lodge #318 Harbor City Lodge in Melbourne, FL. He loved to joke and tease with everyone and couldn’t pass up a good deal at yard sales. He absolutely loved to haggle for bargains.

Billy Woods

Mr. Billy Woods-age 63 of Luttrell passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, April 24, 2024. He is preceded in death by his father, Frank Woods; mother, Frances Inklebarger. Billy was always smiling and joking. He gave everyone a nickname and loved to pester. He will be deeply missed by all his family and friends.

Shelby Mitchell

Shelby Jean (Haynes) Mitchell – age 85 of Knoxville, formerly of Liberty Hill, passed peacefully surrounded by her family at home Wednesday, April 24, 2024. She was a member of Bethany Baptist Church.

Larry Wayne Frye

Larry Wayne Frye – age 76 of Washburn, went to be with the Lord, Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at Claiborne County Hospital. He was a member of Elm Springs Baptist Church. Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Oreide Frye; sister, Darlene Satterfield.

He is survived by his sisters, Letha Frye, Jean Nicely and husband Roger of Washburn; brother, Dewey Lynn Frye and wife Vanda of Corryton; nieces and nephews, Jerry, Austin, Brittany all of Washburn, Brad, Amanda, Zoe, Gavin, Kenzlee all of Knoxville.

Sherry Mignon Dunn

Sherry Mignon Dunn – age 72 of Maynardville, went to be with the Lord, Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Sherry had a deep love for her family and also fishing. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lola and H.E. Hill; sister, Sandra Hill; brother, Eddie Hill.

Sherry is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Billy Dunn; daughters, Tansi Underwood, Tammy Lay and husband Rick; grandchildren, Larissa Qualls, Craig Lay and wife Brittany, Derrick Lay; great-grandchildren, Ava Lay, Haisley Lay.

Clarence Grubbs

Clarence E. Grubbs – age 83 of Maynardville. God has taken another amazing man to Heaven today, April 6, 2024. He fought a brave battle with Pancreatic Cancer for 9 long months. Clarence was called a Gentle Giant and was loved by many. He was a man who lived life to the fullest. Clarence was a Glazier for 40 years, an amazing carpenter, mechanic, and avid fisherman. He grew hydroponics, the best tomatoes and vegetables. Clarence was an eagle lover, a magical storyteller and awesome cook, to name just a few.

Danny Jo Sweet

Danny Jo Sweet – age 66 of Washburn went home to be with the Lord Thursday, April 18 2024. Danny was a member of Hubbs Grove Missionary Baptist Church. He was a former employee of the Tennessee Department of Transportation. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed fishing. Danny is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and L.B. Sweet; nephew, Jasper Sweet; sister-in-law, Pam Sweet; brother-in-law, Boyce Brock; father-in-law, Virgil Crawford.

Allen Caine Rush

Allen Caine Rush - age 24 of Washburn went home to be with the Lord Sunday, April 14th, 2024. Preceded in death by his grandfather, Joseph “Joe” Rush; grandma, Shirley Arnold; great grandma, Yvonne McPhetridge.

Artie Belle Beason

Artie Belle Beason-age 79 of Maynardville went to be with the Lord, Monday, April 15, 2024. Artie enjoyed writing poems.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Lee Beason; son, Danny Lee Beason; parents, Lettie Beeler and Laughton Beeler; brother, Gary Beeler; sister, Ruby Shope; son-in-law, Mark Langley.
She is survived by her daughters, Carol Ledford and Karen Munsey; son Jeff Beason and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Diana Harvey

Diana “Dee” Lynn Harvey – age 74 of Rockford, TN, passed away April 11, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Her lifelong passion was to care for others. She was a retired LPN/Home Health Care Nurse with a career spanning more than 30 years. She continued this passion in retirement as a Private Care Nurse until her passing. Diane was an avid UT Vols fan and enjoyed many years of attending UT Football and Lady Vols Basketball games. She also enjoyed watching her grandchildren participate in sports over the years.

Charlie Lloyd Railey

Charlie Lloyd Railey, 76, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 13th, 2024. Preceded in death by his parents, Alphonzo and Mary Lou Railey, sister and brother-in-law Melba and Henry Kidwell and brother Lee Edward Railey (who died shortly after birth).

Joseph Pierre Finley

Joseph Finley -- age 45, passed away unexpectedly at home on April 13,2024 with his wife by his side. Joe is proceeded in death by his mom Zollie Beeler and father Ronnie Beeler.

Joe is survived by his wife Amanda Finley and his six children Tierra Constable(EricHaun), Jeffery Lambdin, Macy Lambdin, Jo’Siah Simpson, Zi’Moni Simpson and Zy’Lynn Simpson. Joe has two sisters Penny Suttles and Elizabeth Ryan. Joe was very proud to welcome his new granddaughter in his life Lily Constable. Joe is retired from The University of TN Police Department.

James Eugene "Jimmy" Thomas

James Eugene “Jimmy” Thomas – age 60 of Mascot, went to be with the Lord Thursday, April 11, 2024. Jimmy loved to fish and work on anything mechanical. Preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Lowell Thomas Sr. and Carrie Caldwell Thomas; son, Andy Thomas; brothers, Lowell Thomas Jr., Ronnie Thomas; sister, Sherry Goins; first wife, Rhonda Thomas

Ronnie Joel Kiser

Ronnie Kiser-age 69 of Sharps Chapel, hometown of Millstone, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Ronnie’s trade was in the coal mines of Kentucky where he spent many long hours and extra days providing for his family. He worked in the mines for nearly 40 years before retiring to his Norris Lake home. He wore many hats throughout these years, some of which exposed his talent for engineering, creativity and intelligence. Ronnie was an electrician and repairman for the mine where he worked underground and or above ground outside in the shop.

Robert Carl Vineyard

Robert Carl Vineyard-age 87 of Knoxville went to be with the Lord, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Robert enjoyed fishing and boating. He enjoyed being a truck driver and worked for Highway Transportation in Knoxville for 25 years. He is preceded in death by his wife, Margie Vineyard; mother, Helen Speas; father, Carl Vineyard; stepdaughter, Debbie Jones.

Phyllis (Ailor) George

Phyllis Ailor George – age 90 of Knoxville, passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Morning Pointe Assisted Living with her daughter by her side. She was a born again Christian and longtime member of Beaver Dam Baptist Church, where she participated in many ministries throughout the years. Phyllis enjoyed hosting family and friends in her home and was a wonderful cook - especially chicken and dumplings. She worked hard alongside her husband, Bill George, in his construction business and farming.

Jessie Faye Hensley

Jessie Faye Hensley (Wyrick), age 77 of Luttrell, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday April 7, 2024 at UT Medical Center. She is now free of all pain and is singing in that Heavenly choir. She was a member of Solid Rock Baptist Church where she was the song leader and played the guitar. She had the biggest heart and loved everyone, especially her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. As of May 3rd, she would have been at DeRoyal, the job she loved, for 37 years.

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