Welcome, Dear Reader, to 2025!

How strange that date will seem for the first few days or weeks of the year. As with most things, the “new” will wear off the new year quickly, returning us to the same rituals and rote responsibilities from which we have had somewhat of a reprieve during the holidays.

Hopefully you and I will not feel it necessary to turn to therapy to help us cope with life in 2025. Regrettably, not all people are as fortunate as others, and there are those who find therapy and counseling necessary to navigate the stresses life can bring.

In a blender, puree the drained cashews and next 7 ingredients until smooth. Set aside. In Dutch oven or large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion. Cook and stir until browned, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, cook 1 minute longer.
Add asparagus, broccoli and carrots. Cook until tender, 10 to 12 minutes.

Christmas is probably the most tradition-packed holiday there is, and over the years I’ve enjoyed chasing some of them down to find their origins. The Christmas stocking goes way back, and its origin is nothing like the large, ornate sock shaped bag of today that is hung up on Christmas Eve so that Santa can fill it with small toys, candy, fruit, and such.

Snow can be beautiful when it’s falling. But at some point it has to be cleared off your steps, sidewalks and driveway. If you are going to clear the snow, regardless of what mechanical assistance you may have, here are some considerations to keep in mind:

“What’s it?” Her momma asks.
Molly points upward. “The sparkly angel dolls you made last year.”
“I’m sorry Sweetie, but those halos are way too small even for Maverick’s head.”
“Not the halos, the little yellow lights you wrapped around them. They’d be perfect to wrap around Mav’rick’s halo. Please momma,” Molly begs.

Mayor Lynn Beeler and Vice-Mayor Richard Phillips along with Aldermen Keith Brantley, Josh Collins, Rebecca Lock, and the employees of the City of Plainview wish everyone a multitude of blessings, a Very Merry Christmas, and the Happiest New Year.

If you are dreaming of a new look or need a last minute haircut for the holidays, Clipping Crew Family Hair Care held the grand opening of their second location on December 20 in Plainview at 576 Tazewell Pike, next to Rondo's Pizza and a few steps from Atkins & Co. Bookkeeping & Tax Service. Stylist Christina Atkins is ready to help you look your best with a new cut or color for the new year. Christina will patiently listen and do her best to satisfy your hairstyle wishes. As a mother of five and with more than a dozen years as a stylist, she is used to making dreams come true.

We’re thrilled to announce that the groundbreaking ceremony for Union County’s Heritage Park took place on December 6. This marks an exciting step forward in preserving and celebrating our community’s rich history and culture. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this momentous occasion!

Union County Heritage Park has been honored with the prestigious Annette Anderson's Director's Award for the East Tennessee Community Center. This recognition highlights the park's outstanding contribution to the community, celebrating its commitment to preserving heritage and fostering engagement.

The Annette Anderson Directors' Award is granted annually to clients of the East Tennessee Community Design Center who have demonstrated a commitment to making East Tennessee a better place.

What a festive and fun way to wrap up 2024 with our FCE family. A huge thank you to Carol Pratt for graciously hosting our December meeting. Your warmth and hospitality made the gathering extra special.

We’d also like to give a big shoutout to everyone who brought delicious finger foods to share — from savory bites to sweet treats, everything was absolutely delightful!