The Union County Childrens Charities members first thought we simply could not have our annual toy drive this year due to COVID-19, but we knew it was important for the needy children. It was restructured in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The goal was to keep all safe.

“Union County Schools are not spreading COVID-19” was the message Dr. Jimmy Carter, Director of Union County Public Schools, stated as he updated the Board of Education at the December 10 board meeting on the status of COVID-19 in the schools.

County Commissioner Debra Keck enlightens us regarding the Joint Economic Community Development Board (JECDB) and their current and upcoming plans and projects. I have known Debra Keck for years as Mayor Mike Williams’ assistant, and we interacted often, especially when working together on functions of the Chamber of Commerce and as members of the JECDB. Recently, Keck and I discussed the progress being made in Union County.

While the pandemic ravaged the nation last spring, the Union County Business and Professional Association Board and Past Presidents worked through small groups and online to revamp and energize its service to its membership.
When COVID-19 quieted near the end of summer, in-person meetings resumed in August at a new venue, Pete's Place in Maynardville.

Mike Chesney, incoming Maynardville City Manager, aspired as a child to become a person who would help others and make a positive difference in their lives. The very young see heroes in firefighters and policemen, then as they grow up realize there are a lot of other people helping communities run and flourish.

Before you dig into that blanket of newly fallen snow, take a few minutes to warm up. Take a brief walk around the house or march in place to get your body ready for the physical strain. Add arm movements and stretch your back to warm up the upper body. Here are a few more tips to help you stay healthy during shoveling season:

Country Connections by James & Ellen Perry
Time marches on. Memories, like old pictures, fade. Family members and old friends die.
The homesteads and farms remembered from youth are torn down or divided and sold by their heirs. Subdivisions are encroaching on our beloved mountains and valleys and now encompass the beautiful lakes we once enjoyed. “Keep off” signs are popping up as developers buy up property and build houses on top of our scenic hills ruining our vistas and changing the mountain silhouettes forever.

When entering Big Ridge State Park, one of first structures you will see is a stone building right on the side of the road. Most people who visit the park probably know very little about the structure or know nothing at all about the unique little building. Some folks that have grown up visiting the park may know a lot more about the building than visitors not from around these parts.
The stone building was originally built around 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). After the completion of Big Ridge Park, it was run and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).

I like recipes that are easy to make. Usually the fewer ingredients the better. This recipe is an example. It is amazing what all you can do with a box of mac and cheese. It's easy, but the directions sound a little strange. Try it anyway. It is delicious. Add a green salad for a quick supper.

2 Timothy 2:15 KJV: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
It’s a new year! Go ahead and call me Captain Obvious, but sometimes stating what is obvious is simply necessary. While I try not to make flippant New Year’s resolutions, regarding spiritual matters I do like to take the occasion as another opportunity to reflect upon my relationship with God. When I see my shortcomings through reflecting upon God’s Word, it benefits me to sharpen my focus and reset my path in accordance with Biblical principles.