When residents of Claiborne County have questions related to agriculture, consumer economics, food and nutrition, and even how to make their lawns grow lush with grass, there is a resource standing ready to assist. The Claiborne County Extension Office, the outreach arm of the University of Tennessee and Tennessee State University, helps to share the knowledge and expertise of the universities through education developed by agents, specialists and volunteers across the state.

March is UT-TSU Extension Month and the Claiborne County Extension Office invites all citizens in Claiborne County to participate in educational programs and to learn how Extension can benefit them.

Join the Extension staff to celebrate UT-TSU Extension month this March. Plan to be at the UT-TSU Extension Open House on March 21 at the Extension Office in Tazewell from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the open house, you will have an opportunity to meet staff members, ask questions, gather information, eat, fellowship and win door prizes.

If you would like to learn more about how UT-TSU Extension serves Claiborne County you can visit the office, call them at 423-626-3742, visit their website at claiborne.tennessee.edu, like them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/extensionclaiborne), or follow them on Twitter @ClaiborneExt.

UT Extension provides a gateway to the University of Tennessee as the outreach unit of the Institute of Agriculture. With an office in every Tennessee County, UT Extension delivers educational programs and research-based information to citizens throughout the state. In cooperation with Tennessee State University, UT Extension works with farmers, families, youth and communities to improve lives by addressing problems and issues at the local, state and national levels.

The UT Institute of Agriculture provides instruction, research and outreach through the UT College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch, including its system of 10 research and education centers, and UT Extension offices in every county in the state.

DEADLINE: The deadline for submitting Area Happenings, Church Events, Reunions or Society items is Thursday at noon.

Appalachian Aglow

Appalachian Aglow meets bi-monthly at the home of Lisa Leonard in New Tazewell. If interested, call 865-585-0091 for directions and information.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd

Chapel of the Good Shepherd, the only Lutheran church in Union County, has begun to hold worship services on Sunday afternoons at 4 p.m. If you have any questions, please contact Paul Kritsch, pastor of the church, at 865-279-1279, or via e-mail at chapelofthegoodshepherd@outlook.com.

Christ the King Catholic Church

Christ the King Catholic Church welcomes the new pastor, Father Mike Creson. Mass schedule is Sunday at noon and Thursdays at 10 a.m. The church is located at 816 Blue Top Road, Tazewell.

Claiborne County Ministerial Association

Pastors and preachers of Claiborne County, the Claiborne County Ministerial Association needs your help. We now only have a few members. We do volunteer chaplain work at Claiborne Medical Center and 15-minute Daily Devotions on WNTT Radio. If God leads you to be a part of this ministry, we meet once a month at the Claiborne Medical Center conference room on the fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. For further information call 865-585-7112. President, Kenny Clark.

Clinch Mountain

The annual Clinch Mountain Easter Sunrise Service will be held on US Hwy. 25E, on top of Clinch Mountain, at 7:04 a.m. on March 27, rain or shine. Everyone is cordially invited.

Community Easter Service

A Community Easter Service will be held March 19 beginning at 6 p.m. in the multipurpose room of Claiborne High School. Everyone is invited to attend and receive a blessing. Special guests will be True Gospel.

Dogwood Heights Baptist Church

Weekly services at Dogwood Heights Baptist Church include: Tis So Sweet Café Worship, Sunday from 8:30-9:45 a.m.; Sunday School at 10 a.m.; Worship Service at 11 a.m.; Evening Worship at 6 p.m. Wednesday evening – Bible Study at 7 p.m. Everyone is invited. Pastor, Travis Pressnell, Youth Pastor, Charlie Longworth.

Eagles Rock Missionary Baptist Church

Eagles Rock Missionary Baptist Church will present Passion Play 2016 on March 18 at 7 p.m. and March 20 at 7 p.m. The church is located at 132 Ridge Dale Road, Harrogate, off Forge Ridge Road.

FBC Deaf and Hearing Impaired Worship

The addition of a deaf interpreter for the Sunday morning worship service has brought a new ministry to First Baptist Church in New Tazewell. To learn more, call 423-626-5401 or visit at 814 Buchanan Road, next to Laurel Manor Nursing Home.

Liberty Baptist Church

Liberty Baptist Church will have its monthly singing service March 20 at 6:30 p.m. Visiting singers will be the Beason Family. Everyone is welcome. Dennis Buchanan, song leader, Rev. Kenny Clark, pastor.

Little Sycamore Missionary Baptist Church

Little Sycamore Missionary Baptist Church will be having their monthly singing March 19 at 7 p.m. Visiting singers will be Gospel Lights. Everyone welcome.

Lone Holly Baptist Church

Lone Holly Baptist Church will present the Gates of Heaven play on March 20 at 6 p.m. Pastor Tim Cosby welcomes everyone.

Meyers Grove Primitive Baptist Church

Meyers Grove Primitive Baptist Church will have Women’s Bible Study every Saturday at 4 p.m. All ladies and their friends are invited to come and study together.

New Beginning Baptist Church

New Beginning Baptist Church has new meeting times. We now meet for worship on Sunday at 10 a.m. and at 3 p.m. and on Sunday at 6 p.m. for Bible study. On Wednesday at 6 p.m. we have Visitation, Bridge Builders and Youth. On Sunday nights and other nights throughout the week we offer Life Application classes.

The church is located at 2305 Highway 63, four miles west of U.S. Hwy. 25E in Harrogate. For more information please call the church office at 423-869-7378 or Pastor Donnie Bannister at 423-526-4491.

New Tazewell United Methodist Church

A new Weight Watchers meeting is starting Wednesdays at 5 p.m. and a new Zumba class has started every Thursday and Saturday at 9 a.m. at the New Tazewell United Methodist Church. Classes are $3 each. They will meet in the Fellowship Hall of NTUMC. For information call Vickie at 423-801-3335.

Pump Springs Baptist Church

The 2016 Fishing Tournament will be held March 19 at Brogan Hollow Boat Launch on Norris Lake. Launch at safe light and weigh-in will be at 3 p.m. All fishermen must attend the registration meeting at PSBC on March 18 at 7 p.m. in order to compete. The speaker will be Pastor Scott Cannon. Food will be served at 6 p.m. Launch numbers will be drawn at random, not in order of registration. There will be $2,000 in cash and prizes. Awards will be given for first through fifth place, biggest largemouth and biggest smallmouth. For more information call David Booth at 606-547-5937, Rick Rigsby at 423-626-9738 or Pump Springs Baptist Church at 423-869-8323.

PSBC will host the Voices of Zambia, a choir of students from the International Bible College of Zambia, on March 20 during the 11 a.m. service. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The Well Bookstore and Gift Shop is open Mon., Tues, Thurs. and Fri. from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m., Wed. from 11 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and Sun. from 9:30-11 a.m. Someone has made a pledge to purchase a Bible to give away for every purchase made from The Well through March 31. The Well has Easter cards, gifts and supplies for Easter baskets along with new discipleship studies and Bibles. Through March 31 is also “find an egg discount,” so come in and browse around, find your discount and support by getting a Bible in every home by making a purchase.

Regional Education Center

The Regional Education Center, an FBC Ministry Center, is located at 1724 Epps Street in Tazewell. They distribute food boxes on Tuesday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon. Residents of Claiborne County need to bring proof of residence and income. The center is located behind the courthouse in Tazewell.

Servolution Health Services

The Servolution Health Services free medical and dental care clinic is open. Anyone from the Tri-State area is welcome. The faith-based clinic serves the uninsured of the area, from any state, whose income does not exceed 200 percent of the federal poverty level guidelines. Servolution Health Services is located 8.7 miles from Harrogate, off Hwy. 63 in the old Powell Valley High School vocational building in Speedwell. The address is 245 Powell Valley School Lane. To determine eligibility, make an appointment or for more information call 423-419-5070.

Springdale Baptist Church

Springdale Baptist Church will present the Gates of Heaven play on March 26 at 6 p.m. and March 27 at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome.

Stand In The Gap

Please join the Stand in the Gap Coalition for prayer the first Tuesday of each month from 5-6 p.m. at the Stand in the Gap Coalition office located at 502 Pennlyn Ave. in Cumberland Gap. The next prayer meeting will be April 5.

Thompson Chapel United Methodist Church

The Thompson Chapel Clothing Bank is in need of any and all donations. We are open Wednesday and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call 626-3913 or 626-4435 for info.

Twin City Baptist Church

Twin City Baptist Church now offers sign language interpretation of the services. Everyone is welcome.

Upper Room Ministries

Are you in need? Our monthly food drive is on the second Saturday of each month of 2015. It runs from 10 a.m. until the food is gone. It is provided by the grace of God and sponsored by Upper Room Ministries, which is located at 860 Hwy. 33 South in New Tazewell. For more information, call 423-398-3352 or email urm1993@icloud.com.

Youth 4 Truth Ministries

Youth 4 Truth cookbooks are available. We have just received our new cookbooks. They have 500 wonderful recipes and sell for $10 each. There will be a limited number of cookbooks, so get your copy now, before they are sold out. It would make an excellent Christmas or shower gift. There will be several people in the area selling them, or you can call 423-626-2674 or 865-278-6882 or 865-352-9965. Thank you so much for your support.

DEADLINE: The deadline for submitting Area Happenings, Church Events, Reunions or Society items is Thursday at noon. See our website each week for a full listing of local governmental meetings: www.claiborneprogress.net.

Free Spay and Neuter

The Animal Welfare League of Claiborne County is sponsoring a free spay/neuter for dogs and cats in the Claiborne County area for families with income less than $30,000 per year, depending upon the number of people in the household. Pick up applications at Harrogate Hospital for Animals, Russell Veterinary Services or Rowland Veterinary Services. You can also request spay applications at awlccspay@gmail.com . Complete application, including proof of income and mail to AWLCC, 200 Hatfield Morgan Lane, New Tazewell, TN 37825 or scan/email to email address above. Be sure to include a phone number.

Town of Tazewell Brush Pickup

Brush pickup for the residents of the Town of Tazewell is resuming. A maximum quantity of two brush piles 4 ft. wide x 4 ft. tall x 10 ft. long will be collected from each household per visit. Brush and limbs shall be neatly stacked in 4 ft. x 4 ft. piles with the ends facing the same direction. Exceptions: Leaves or other debris may not be mixed with brush. No stumps will be picked up or limbs larger than 6 inches in diameter. Brush must be brought to the curbside and not placed in the street or on sidewalks. Lumber or construction waste materials will not be collected. No commercial, industrial, construction, or land clearing projects are included in the brush collection program. To schedule pickup call the Tazewell City Hall at 626-5104.

Free Tech Classes at Library

Need help with technology? Would you like to learn more about your mobile device? You can now schedule an appointment at the Claiborne County Public Library for free help sessions. The library will be able to help with the following: Computers, tablets, phones, use of apps, etc.

Come prepared with: The device you need help with; any necessary usernames and passwords needed to access your device and/or accounts; the device fully charged, if not, please bring a charger; questions and/or concerns about your device.

The library staff will not: Run diagnostics; troubleshoot or fix any malfunctioning devices (unless related to library services); run antivirus scans; computer maintenance; replace parts on a device; credit card transactions.

Call for information, more details or to schedule an appointment at 423-626-5414 or email at claibornelibrary@gmail.com. One-on-one or group appointments are available.

Regional Education Center

Basic computer, iPad and iPhone classes will be available at the Regional Education Center on Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. beginning March 16. There is limited seating. Please call Rhonda at 423-626-6401 to enroll. The address is 1724 Epps Street, Tazewell, TN 37879.

Lunch and Learn

Claiborne Medical Center is having a free Lunch and Learn community education seminar on March 16 at noon. Dr. Philip Serbin, a urologist with Hamblen Urology Clinic and a member of the CMC medical staff, will present information on ‘Urology/Prostate Issues and Treatment Options’. The seminar will be held in the hospital’s downstairs conference room, and lunch is provided. For more information, or to make a reservation for this event, please call Betsy Maples at 423-526-2192.

Clinch Valley Beekeeping Association

Clinch Valley Beekeeping Association will meet March 19 from 1-3 p.m. at the Treadway Fire Hall on Highway 131. For registration and information contact Wanda Coleman at 423-944-3230.

Springdale VFD Dinner

Springdale Volunteer Fire Department “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” (Howard’s Quarter & Lone Mountain Substations) would like to invite everyone to its annual Ham Dinner, March 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Springdale Elementary School. Bring the family after church. Give your loved one a break from cooking, and visit with friends and neighbors. Dinners are: Adults $8, children 12 & under $4, three & under free. Dinners will include salad, baked ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, sweet potatoes, rolls, desserts and drink. Just as your cost of living has been rising steadily, so has the operating cost of your fire department. Come have dinner with family and friends and support your Volunteer Fire Department. Also please consider joining your fire department, volunteer to help your neighbors and the community, we need people for more than fighting fires. Remember Tennessee is the Volunteer State!

Finance Committee

The Claiborne County Finance Committee will meet at the Claiborne Finance Office on March 21 at 5:30 p.m. The public is welcome to attend.

Spay and Neuter

Claiborne Animal Shelter will have a spay and neuter for cats on March 24. Cost is $20 per cat and $10 for a rabies shot. Space is limited. Call 423-626-2686 for appointment.

Jail Committee

The Claiborne County Correctional Partnership Act Committee (commonly known as the Jail Committee) will meet at the training room of the Justice Center on March 24 at 4:30 p.m. The public is welcome.

Courthouse Closing

The Claiborne County Courthouse will be closed March 25 in observance of Good Friday.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice, Alzheimer’s Support Group will meet the last Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Laurel Manor Nursing Facility. The next meeting will be March 31. Community partners: Alzheimer’s Tennessee; Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice; Laurel Manor Nursing Facility; Lambert Bookkeeping & Financial Services; Senior Citizens Home Assistance Service, Inc.; Claiborne-Overholt Funeral Home; Eastridge Apartments LLC; Claiborne County Office on Aging. Everyone welcome.

Story Time at Library

The Claiborne County Public Library will be having a Story Time every week in the Children’s Room. Story Time will be held on Fridays beginning April 1 at 10:30 a.m. with books, music and crafts. Children of all ages are welcome. Call the library at 423-626-5414 for more information.

Broken Spur Dance Club

There will be a Silent Auction, Bingo and Dinner Fundraiser for the Broken Spur Dance Club and American Legion Building on April 1 from 6-9 p.m. Chili, hot dogs, nachos and cheese, sweets and drinks will be available to eat. Wreaths, scarves and sugar scrub will be available to purchase. Bingo will be $20 for unlimited play or $1 per game. The building is located at 335 Fulkerson Street in Tazewell, below SMMS. For more information call 865-567-7431. Broken Spur is non-alcoholic, non-smoking and family friendly.

Claiborne Animal Shelter

The annual Claiborne Animal Shelter Fundraiser will be held April 2 at the Cumberland Gap Convention Center. The cost is $100 per plate for the banquet and silent auction. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. To reserve your seat, you may call the Shelter at 423-626-2686. To reserve a spot and pay in advance, go online to: www.claiborneanimalshelter.com.

Free Computer Classes

The Claiborne County Public Library will be offering free computer classes starting April 4. These classes will introduce first-time computer users to common computer terms and features, such as: How to use a computer; parts of a computer; email, Facebook, etc.; Microsoft Word; TEL; R.E.A.D.S. All classes will last for six weeks and participants will need to call and sign up beforehand. Classes will be held Mondays from 10 a.m. until noon. For more information and to register call the library at 423-626-5414. There will be no class the week of May 2 due to the library’s annual spring book sale.

Bereavement Support Group

The death of a loved one by suicide presents special problems in grieving. There is often more shock, a greater sense of injustice, more guilt and blame and a heightened sense of helplessness – and these all tend to complicate the healing process for survivors. You are not alone.

There is a safe place in this community for survivors (families and loved ones of suicide victims) to share their loss with others who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. Surviving Our Loss After Suicide (SOLAS) is a bereavement support group that will provide help, hope and healing. Groups are open to all adult survivors of suicide and will be held at The Well Being Foundation, 557 Narrows Road, Tazewell, TN 37879. To reach Well Being, go approximately 8.1 miles from the stop light at Cedar Fork Road then turn left on Narrows Road. The meetings will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. Upcoming dates are April 5, April 19, May 3, May 17, June 7, June 21, July 19, Aug. 2, Aug. 16, Sept. 6, Sept. 20, Oct. 4 and Oct. 18. For more information call Tammy Wilson, facilitator, at 865-585-2917.

Lily Grove Cemetery

The Lily Grove Cemetery annual clean-up will be April 9, beginning at 10 a.m. Afterward, a covered dish lunch will be served. Donations can be made to Bridget Day or Roy Fortner, 1318 Locust Grove Road, New Tazewell, TN 37825. If you have loved ones buried there, please help in the care of the cemetery.

American Legion Post #109

All veterans are invited to attend monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. The next meeting is April 12. Activities begin at 6 p.m. with a meal. The meeting is at 7 p.m. at 335 Fulkerson Street in Tazewell.

Bulldog Jog

The Claiborne High School Track & Field Team will be holding a Bulldog Jog 5K and 10K run/walk on April 16 beginning at 9 a.m. at Claiborne High School. The cost is $20-30 (student discount available). For more information contact Amy Munsey at CHS at 423-626-3532 or amy.munsey@claibornecsd.org.

Crazy Aunt Sadie’s Yard Sale

The annual Crazy Aunt Sadie’s Yard Sale will be held in Cumberland Gap April 30 from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. Bring your own table, tent and whatever you need to make your booth. The spaces are 9’ by 18’ down Main Street. The fee for Cumberland Gap residents is $10, $15 for non-residents. Spaces are limited and reservations are recommended. Call 760-574-1052 to reserve a space. Proceeds go to the Cumberland Gap Volunteer Fire Department. There will also be a pancake breakfast for purchase to support the fire department. The cost for the breakfast is $5.

Drug Test Kits Available

Free Saliva Based Drug Testing Kits are available, provided and sponsored through UNITE and (SIGCO) Stand in the Gap Coalition. Give Me a Reason (GMAR) is designed for parents/guardians to use to talk with their children and randomly test them, which gives them a reason to say “no” when tempted or offered drugs. They can be obtained at 44 different distribution points throughout tri-state area & at the SIGCO office, located at 502 Pennlyn Ave., Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. For more information where to find a distribution point near you contact the SIGCO office at 423-300-1302 or to pick one up stop by on Thursdays between noon and 5:30 p.m.

Free GED/High Set Classes

Classes are held in the Claiborne School Board office. For more information call 423-317-1064 or email hiset@tcatmorristown.edu.

Arthur Community Center Association

The Arthur Community Center Restoration Organization has regular meetings the second Thursday and fourth Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Arthur Community Center. All residents of Arthur Community are encouraged to attend. The ACCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration of the Arthur Community Center for the public to use for meetings, family reunions, wedding receptions, etc.

Free Classes

The Claiborne County Adult High School will be offering classes for students to earn credits to receive their Tennessee state high school diploma. Flexible scheduling will be available for both day and evening classes. If you do not have your high school diploma, please contact the Claiborne County Adult High School at 423-626-8222 for more information.

Claiborne County Historical and Genealogy Society

The Claiborne County Historical and Genealogy Society is located on Old Knoxville Road across from the library. For more information call the office 526-5737. Research hours are Sundays from 1-5 p.m. CCHGS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Claiborne County. Please mail your tax deductible contributions or annual membership dues to: CCHGS, P.O. Box 32, Tazewell, TN 37879.

Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project

Outreach workers Tommy Brooks and Erin Haverland will be available to assist eligible veterans with enrollment in HVRP. The Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project helps veterans find secure employment through case management, job training, and referrals and links with other local service providers. Outreach workers can arrange visits with veterans in outlying areas who are unable to travel to the program office.Veterans Can Help is located at 511 Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917. Phone: 865-524-3926. In Knoxville, call 865-546-4813 for more information.

Town of Tazewell BMA

The board meetings for the Board of Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Tazewell are conducted at Tazewell City Hall at 1830 Main Street, the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The BMA workshops are on Wednesday prior to the scheduled board meeting at 6 p.m. as needed. The public is invited to attend all meetings of the board.

Major George Gibson Chapter Regent Nancy Britton presented this year’s National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Community Service Award to Roger and Judy Hansard on Feb. 27. Recipients of this award must have contributed to the community in an outstanding manner through voluntary heroic, civic, benevolent service, or by organizing or participating in community activities.

“The Hansards are certainly deserving of this award,” she said.

Roger and Judy Hansard are associated with the First Baptist Church of New Tazewell and the Regional Education Ministries (RECM). They had a successful 2015 in ministering to the needy in Jesus’ name. Approximately 600 people were fed through the First Baptist Church Food Pantry, ending 2015 with 5,575 served with over 90,000 pounds of nutritious food.

The RECM is approved as a USDA distributor giving out 6,000 pounds of food per month. In 2015, the Hansards trained 15 people in food handling by the USDA, purchased a heavy duty food trailer, attended a North American Mission Board Send Conference in Nashville, and attended Service Corps Training in Minnesota.

Both were appointed North American Mission Board Missionaries in July 2015.

The Hansards are now picking up 4,000 pounds of food monthly from Atlanta. They have also developed an agreement with Walmart to receive shelf-pulls, bakery items, fresh fruit, and vegetables. They partner with a local church to serve 130 needy families and with a church in Georgia for backpacks and a Christmas party. The Hansards were recognized with an award from Second Harvest of East Tennessee.

Roger and Judy’s ministry targets children and the elderly. Their food distribution is important as the downturn in the economy has made life more challenging to the local community. They believe, however, that there is always hope for economic improvement. They have asked for our prayers as they continue their ministry.

Roger added that they work with area churches needing revitalization. That mostly centers around food, he said, as there is such a need in this area. Statistically, one out of five children go to bed hungry and many elderly people have to choose between buying medicine and food. They also help local churches, when requested, with adult or family literacy programs, computer classes, and selling online.

The Hansards expressed appreciation for the award and again requested prayers for their continued ministry.

Roger and Judy Hansard of Tazewell recently received the Major George Gibson Chapter National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Community Service Award. Regent Nancy Britton, far right, presented the award during a chapter meeting.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_DSCN0405.jpgRoger and Judy Hansard of Tazewell recently received the Major George Gibson Chapter National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Community Service Award. Regent Nancy Britton, far right, presented the award during a chapter meeting.

Judge Shayne Sexton approved several plea agreements recently during a session of Claiborne County Criminal Court.

Christopher Clayton Laparade, 41, initially charged with introduction of contraband into a penal facility, driving under the influence, leaving the scene of an accident with property damage over $500, possession of a schedule II, a schedule IV and a schedule VI controlled substances and driving on a suspended license, was sentenced to a split confinement of one year ETHRA supervised probation with two days confinement. Laparade was given credit for 12 hours of jail time already served. He must attend a MADD Victim Impact Panel. Laparade is eligible for unsupervised probation if all monetary obligations are paid in full by the date of his hearing on April 4. The charges of possession of a schedule II and a schedule IV controlled substances was dismissed due to valid prescriptions.

Jonathon Whitaker, 25, initially charged under two separate cases with criminal conspiracy, introduction of contraband into a penal facility, possession of a schedule III controlled substance and theft under $500, was sentenced to a concurrent one year confinement. Whitaker was given credit for any jail time served since Aug. 18. He must pay at least $125 per month in court costs and fines.

Allen Ryan Robbins, 26, initially charged with criminal conspiracy, introduction of contraband into a penal facility and possession of a schedule III controlled substance, was sentenced to three years at 30 percent confinement. Robbins was given credit for 186 days jail time already served. This case runs concurrently with all priors.

Robert Wesley Phipps, 38, initially charged under two separate cases with violation of the habitual motor vehicle offense bar, driving on a revoked license and violations of the traffic control device and financial responsibility laws, was sentenced to an effective five years confinement. Phipps was given credit for jail time served from Dec. 17 to Feb. 22.

Willy B. Graham, 23, initially charged with felony evading arrest, reckless endangerment and driving on a revoked license, was sentenced to a split confinement of two years TDOC supervised probation with 96 days confinement. Graham was given credit for 96 days jail time already served. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs beginning 30 days after release from jail. The charge of reckless endangerment was dismissed.

Benjamin Wayne Hopson, 29, initially charged with criminal simulation, resisting arrest and vandalism under $500, was sentenced to a split confinement of four years TDOC supervised probation with 365 days confinement. Hopson was given credit for 44 days jail time already served. He must pay at least $200 per month in court costs and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. Hopson must pay $650 in restitution to his victim.

Matthew D. King, 31, initially charged with aggravated burglary, was sentenced to a split confinement of six years Community Corrections with 77 days confinement. King was given credit for 77 days jail time already served. He must pay at least $150 per month in court costs beginning on March 26 and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. King must pay $2,320 in restitution to one of his victims and an additional $40 to his second one. He must stay at least 1,000 ft. from his victims and their properties.

Camilla Diane Brown, 27, initially charged with burglary, vandalism under $500, theft over $10,000, theft over $1,000, theft over $500, was sentenced to six years TDOC supervised probation. Brown must pay court costs and forfeits $450 to the Economic Crime Fund. Restitution will be determined during a hearing on May 16. She is barred from any contact with her victims.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

The following public records are the only public records that have been made available to the Claiborne Progress. If you feel that there has been an omission or other error, please contact the appropriate agency. As addresses are not always included in these reports, some misidentification can occur with individuals having the same name as others. Persons listed as being arrested or receiving citations should not be considered guilty or convicted as they have not been found to be so in a court of law at the times these records are filed. Since records are printed as received, the list is controlled by the appropriate agencies involved; we are unable to change or omit names or information.

>>>>>

Claiborne Co. Sheriff’s Office

>>>>>>>

Troy West – aggravated assault, aggravated burglary, possession of a schedule II drugs

Harrison Edgar Good – domestic assault

Megan Leanna Loope – domestic assault

Curtis Lee Mills – filing a false report

Lora Beth Jarnagin – evading arrest, resisting arrest, possession of a schedule II drugs, capias/bench warrant

Kelly N. Parkey – resisting arrest

Steve Allen Leedy – driving under the influence (second offense)

Micheal Lloyd Middleton – contempt of court, disorderly conduct

Ashley Olivia Simpson – public intoxication in court

Savannah Nicole Johnson – outstanding child support attachment

Robert D. Smith – capias/bench warrant for driving under the influence (fourth offense), driving on a revoked license (second offense), possession of a schedule II, a schedule III and a schedule IV drugs and drug paraphernalia and the interception of law enforcement radio frequencies, failure to appear for possession of a schedule II and a schedule III drugs and drug paraphernalia, violation of the seat belt law and driving on a revoked license

Jonathan Dwayne McDonald – violation of probation for attempted statutory rape

Joseph Clayton Gonzales – violation of probation for failure to report to probation and nonpayment of court costs, new charge of driving on a revoked license (third offense)

Christopher Wayne Anders – violation of probation for joyriding

Brock Andrew Farley – violation of probation

Shelby Lynn Shehan – failure to appear for driving under the influence, theft of property over $500 and driving on a suspended license

Pamela D. Jones – failure to appear for violation of the financial responsibility law

Nancy Elizabith Brown – theft of merchandise under $500

Jacob Combs – driving on a revoked license, violation of the implied consent law

>>>>>>>

New Tazewell Police Dept.

>>>>>>>

Tonya Mae (Carpenter) Fender – criminal impersonation, violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Ronald James Brooks – driving under the influence

Christopher H. Hurst – speeding 65/45, violation of the seat belt law

Logan E. Arnold – speeding 60/45, violation of the driver’s license carry law

Matthew Jordan Cupp – failure to exhibit due care, violation of the financial responsibility law

Chelsea Dane Price – failure to exhibit due care

Taylor M. Massengill – failure to exhibit due care

Timothy Stuart Baker – following a motor vehicle too closely, violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Gregory Allen Goins Jr. – violation of the seat belt law (driver) (second offense)

Kaleb Rife – violations of the seat belt (driver) and financial responsibility laws

Kenneth R. Wynn II – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Ronald L. Jordan Jr. – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Kaylan D.. L Patterson – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Lois C. Harrell – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Billy Smith – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Brandon O. McGeorge – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Jack Tyler Jones – violation of the seat belt law (driver)

Joseph C. Reams – violation of the seat belt law (passenger), possession of a controlled substance

Heather Danielle Brooks – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Hannah J. Hopper – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Jeremiah J. Lovens – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Timothy L. Redman – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Karen Sue Dummit – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Benny W. Lane – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

April Gwen Fortner – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Cynthia L Davis – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Ben Turner – violation of the seat belt law (passenger)

Spencer Reece Caylor – violations of the seat belt, registration and financial responsibility laws

Jeanea Louisa Tucker – violations of the seat belt and registration laws

Paul Douglas Rosenbalm – violations of the seat belt and registration laws

Alan Michael Poore – violations of the seat belt and financial responsibility laws

Kaitlyn E. Nichols – violations of the seat belt and financial responsibility laws

Donald R. Noah – violations of the seat belt and financial responsibility laws

Kathy L. Robinette – violations of the seat belt and financial responsibility laws

Brandon O’Neal McGeorge – violation of the seat belt law

Taylor Widner – violation of the seat belt law

Jesse Lee Smith – violation of the seat belt law

Jamie Lovin – violation of the seat belt law

John Edward Gass – violation of the seat belt law

Clinton Gavin Davis – violation of the seat belt law

Shirley L. Ball – violation of the seat belt law

Rebecca Ann Venable – violation of the seat belt law

Claria Fultz – violation of the seat belt law

Jimmie C. Gibson Jr. – violation of the seat belt law

Jimmie C. Gibson – violation of the seat belt law

Alisha D. Blevins – violation of the seat belt law

Amanda Dawn Neal – violation of the seat belt law

Randy Joe Collins – violation of the seat belt law

Connie Kay Guy – violation of the seat belt law

Phyllis Rouse Tharpe – violation of the seat belt law

Wendy Sue Widner – violation of the seat belt law

Tony Lamb – violation of the seat belt law

Meghan L. Burke – violation of the seat belt law

Sarah Rogers – violation of the seat belt law

Rory Reed Yeary – violation of the seat belt law

Brandy Meyers – violation of the seat belt law

Ashley Faye Short – violations of the light, traffic control device and registration laws

Heather Graves – violations of the light, registration, financial responsibility and driver’s license carry laws

Shawn Nelson Logan – violations of the light and financial responsibility laws

Melanie S. Carter – violations of the traffic control device and financial responsibility laws

Ricky Lewis Cupp – violations of the traffic control device and financial responsibility laws

Christopher Joseph Reams – simple possession of a schedule VI drugs

David Wayne Pace – violation of the financial responsibility law

>>>>>>>

Tazewell Police Dept.

>>>>>>>

Virgie Carolyn Jones Rogers – filing a false report

Camilla Brown – falsifying a drug screening

Mitchell DeWitt Evans – capias/bench warrant for driving on a revoked license and altering/forging a title

Derek Allen Dwayne Saylor – violations of probation for first drug screening, failure to appear for contributing to the delinquency of a minor and simple possession of a controlled substance

Joseph Edward Klepper – failure to appear for driving under the influence and violation of the implied consent law

Misty Ruth Gwynn – possession of a schedule II drugs

Amanda Evans – possession of drug paraphernalia

Aketon Leticia Singleton – disorderly conduct

Leslie Pace – Ford – public intoxication

Matthew Joseph Lucas Hopson – loitering

Jacob Allen Morris – loitering

>>>>>>>

Tennessee Hwy. Patrol

>>>>>>>

Estel Darwin Langley – driving under the influence (second offense), speeding, possession of a schedule IV drugs

Michael Joseph Haas – driving under the influence, violation of the implied consent law

Rebecca Lee Rouse – driving under the influence

Bobby Allen Irvin – capias/bench warrant for driving on a revoked (first and second offenses), failure to appear and violation of the registration law, failure to appear for driving under the influence, driving on a revoked license and misuse of a registration, new charge of driving on a revoked license (fourth offense)

Kristie G. Cupp – capias/bench warrant for driving on a revoked license and violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Christian Steven Mejia – simple possession of a schedule VI drugs

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_Public-Records-2.jpg

Several plea agreements were approved recently by Claiborne County Sessions Court judge Robert Estep, including one for Melissa Ann Westberry, 28, charged with assault and theft under $500.

Due to her current status as a resident of Georgia, Westberry was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Westberry must pay all court costs in full by her hearing date of Sept. 8 and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. She is barred from any contact with her victim and cannot enter the premises of the Dollar General Store.

Joseph Edward Klepper, 41, charged with driving under the influence and resisting arrest, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with two days confinement. Klepper was given credit for time already served. He must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines beginning April 12 and attend DUI School. His driver’s license is revoked per the Dept. of Safety.

Ronald James Brooks, 58, charged with driving under the influence, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with five days confinement. Brooks was given credit for five days jail time already served. He must pay at least $100 in court costs in fines beginning April 8. Brooks must attend the MADD Victim Impact Panel and DUI School. His driver’s license is revoked for one year.

Michael L Warren, 64, charged with driving under the influence, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with two days confinement. Warren was given credit for four hours jail time already served. He must pay at least $125 per month in court costs and fines. Warren must attend the MADD Victim Impact Panel and DUI School. His driver’s license is revoked for one year.

Amy Jo Upton, 41, charged with driving under the influence, was initially sentenced to 11 months, 29 days confinement. However, Upton was given credit for 11 months, 29 days jail time already served on a prior case. Her driver’s license is revoked for one year.

Bethany S. McDaniel, 24, charged with reckless driving and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia. Due to her current status as a resident of Georgia, McDaniel was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days unsupervised probation. This plea agreement is contingent on her completion of the Teen Challenge rehabilitation program. Restitution and court costs will be determined during a hearing on April 12.

Billie Jean Helton, 51, received an amended charge of reckless driving and was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Helton must pay all court costs and fines in full by the date of her hearing on June 9.

Hannah Gibson, 19, charged with leaving the scene of an accident and possession of drug paraphernalia, was granted a deferred judgment of one year and sentenced to 11 months, 29 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, all monetary obligations must be met in full by a hearing date on June 16 or placed on ETHRA probation at that time. She must pay a total $175 in restitution to her victims, as well.

Elizabeth Kathrine Hensley, 31, charged with resisting arrest, possession of a schedule II controlled substance and public intoxication, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with eight days confinement. Hensley was given credit for three days jail time already served. She must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines.

Daniel E. Cox, 49, charged with attempted possession of a schedule IV controlled substance, was sentenced to six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Cox must pay all monetary obligations in full by April 12.

Steven Lawrence Gilbert, 25, charged with theft under $500, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 14 days confinement. Gilbert was given credit for 14 days jail time already served. He forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund and must pay $8.56 in restitution to the Tazewell Food City Store.

Crystal Paige Chumley, 44, charged with theft under $500, was granted a deferred judgment of one year and sentenced to one year ETHRA supervised probation. Chumley must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. She is eligible for unsupervised probation once found fully compliant.

Dawn Michelle Rose, 38, charged with theft under $500, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of her probationary status, Rose was ordered to pay all court costs and fines in full the day of her plea hearing. She forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund and must pay $50 in restitution to her victim.

Jeffery A. Keenan Jr., 28, charged with not exhibiting due care, was sentenced to 30 days unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Keenan must pay all court costs in full by April 12. Otherwise, his monthly monetary obligation is $100. The driving under the influence charge was dismissed in this case due to insufficient labs. The possession charge was also dismissed because Keenan produced a valid prescription.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

EWING, Va. — While most college students descend onto the beaches for spring break, several members of Illinois State University spent their spring break in Virginia State Parks performing various maintenance and resource management projects.

The Alternative Spring Break group of 37 students stayed at Natural Tunnel State Park, and performed projects at Natural Tunnel, the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park and Wilderness Road State Park.

Twelve students assisted the maintenance staff at Wilderness Road over a four day period by placing split rail fencing and new trail signage along the Wilderness Road Trail, and also assisted in other resource management projects around the Martin’s Station Fort area.

Alternative Spring Breaks are perfect for college students looking for an alternative way to spend their spring break. Instead of doing the usual spring break routine, students can get off the beaten path and make their break matter by joining one of these specially-designed volunteer projects.

The Alternative Spring Break trips are one-week long, scheduled to coincide with the major university breaks. Volunteers work together in a group on a service project. The trips offer students the chance to experience a new culture while providing an impact to the local community where they are volunteering.

For more information about volunteer opportunities at Wilderness Road State Park please call 276-445-3065 or email: wildernessroad@dcr.virginia.gov. You can also visit the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park official website: www.friendsofwildernessroad.org for more information.

Wilderness Road State Park is open 8 a.m. to dusk each day. The park office and visitor center is open daily 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Historic Martin’s Station will be opening on weekends throughout April.

For more information on all of Virginia’s award-winning state parks call toll-free 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov. The award-winning Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Courtesy photo These college students from Illinois State University recently spent their spring break volunteering at Wilderness Road State Park.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_Alt-Spring-Break.jpgCourtesy photo These college students from Illinois State University recently spent their spring break volunteering at Wilderness Road State Park.

Walters State Community College is offering a variety of noncredit community education and business courses. The Division of Workforce Training offers the classes in Morristown and online.

On the Morristown campus:

• The Permit to Carry a Firearm course is a one day, eight-hour class, which includes four hours of classroom instruction and four hours on the shooting range. The class meets the state’s handgun safety course requirement for a handgun carry permit. Prospective students must first complete and submit a handgun carry permit application at https://apps.tn.gov/handgun/. The class meets on March 26 at Walters State’s Public Safety Campus, across from the Morristown. The cost is $70.

• The Basic Motorcycle Rider Education class is designed for beginning riders 15 years and older. This meets the course requirement for the state’s motorcycle rider education program. The course provides five hours of classroom work and 10 hours of practical riding in a controlled, off-street environment. Course materials are provided. The class meets March 19 and 20. The cost is $235.

Online courses – these classes start on April 15.

• The A to Z Grant Writing class covers the skills and tools needed for the field of grant writing. Students learn how and where to look for potential funding sources. This course is ideal for nonprofit organizations, schools, religious institutions and municipalities seeking grants from foundation, corporate, government, and individual donors. The cost is $125.

• The Accounting Fundamentals class increases the financial awareness of students while also providing a marketable skill. The course includes the basics of double-entry bookkeeping, how to analyze and record financial transactions, and how to prepare financial reports. The cost is $125.

• The Computer Skills for the Workplace course teaches fundamental computer competencies needed in the workplace. Participants will learn how to use modern office software. The cost is $125.

For more information on available and upcoming classes, contact Sarah Gasparac at 423-585-2675 or visit ws.edu/workforce-training.

Over 5,900 credit and 4,000 non-credit students attend Walters State. The college has campuses in Morristown, Greeneville, Sevierville and Tazewell. It offers over 100 associate degrees and technical certificates. Visit Walters State’s website at ws.edu.

Tennessee’s Community Colleges is a system of 13 colleges offering a high-quality, affordable, convenient and personal education to prepare students to achieve their educational and career goals in two years or less. We offer associates degrees and certificate programs, workforce development programs and transfer pathways to four-year degrees. For more information, please visit us online at tncommunitycolleges.org.

Colorful candy-filled eggs on the Karlan Mansion lawn will lead children to Wilderness Road State Park’s eighth annual Easter at Karlan celebration on March 26 beginning at 2 p.m. Children ages 10 and under are invited to join the Easter Bunny for a candy-filled Easter egg hunt that highlights an afternoon filled with fun, games and prizes.

The picturesque Karlan Mansion will provide a spectacular backdrop for the candy-filled egg hunt which features four age groups providing fair competition for prizes that include various sized chocolate rabbits. Age groups include: infant-2, ages 3-5, ages 6-8 and ages 9-10.

Each group will also contain a special marked egg with the finder receiving a chocolate bunny as a prize while the one individual from each group that finds the “lucky” egg will receive a large oversized chocolate rabbit.

Returning this year is the addition of extra prize eggs per age group. Specially marked eggs score their finders a small chocolate bunny. Prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the egg hunt.

The popular event will also include light refreshments and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Games and activities are scheduled throughout the event with a visit by the Easter Bunny concluding the day’s activities.

The Friends of Wilderness Road State Park is providing the eggs and prizes for the celebration.

Pre-registration is required and participants are asked to bring their own basket. Admission to this year’s event is just $1 per vehicle, which will go toward the expenses incurred with the event. For more information, or to register, please call 276-445-3065 or email us at: wildernessroad@dcr.virginia.gov. You can also visit the Friends of Wilderness Road State Park official website: www.friendsofwildernessroad.org for more information.

Wilderness Road State Park is open 8 a.m. to dusk each day. The park office and visitor center is open daily 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Historic Martin’s Station will be opening on weekends throughout April.

For more information on all of Virginia’s award-winning state parks call toll-free 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov. The award-winning Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Courtesy photo The Easter bunny is expected at the Easter egg hunt at Karlan Mansion, located at Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing, Virginia. The hunt is scheduled for March 26 beginning at 2 p.m.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_IMG_0187.jpgCourtesy photo The Easter bunny is expected at the Easter egg hunt at Karlan Mansion, located at Wilderness Road State Park in Ewing, Virginia. The hunt is scheduled for March 26 beginning at 2 p.m.

Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) will perform a semi-annual test of its emergency siren on March 23, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The University installed the Eclipse 8 omnidirectional siren in 2014 to alert the community of public safety or weather-related emergencies on its main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee. The siren is located on the roof of the Tex Turner Arena.

The emergency siren is intended only to warn campus occupants that may be outside of buildings of impending severe weather or campus safety threats. The siren is intended to be an adjunct warning tool and will not replace any facet of LMU’s current alert system, E2Campus. It works in conjunction with the system as another layer of communication.

The weather warning siren will be activated whenever severe weather is anticipated to pass through or near the Harrogate area and there is sufficient time to process the warning. As weather is very difficult to predict and severe weather may develop suddenly and without notice, the weather warning siren may not be able to be activated for every occurrence.

A two signal system will be employed through the siren. A steady tone will indicate a weather emergency, like a tornado warning. A low-high repeater tone will indicate a public safety threat. Both warnings should alert people to take appropriate action immediately. Both signals may be heard during the test.

During an actual emergency it may be hard to distinguish between the two signals. Regardless of which siren is activated the same initial actions are indicated:

• Stop;

• evaluate your surroundings and immediately seek information;

• be prepared to take immediate self-protective action.

Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is located in Harrogate. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@lmunet.edu.

A grassroots effort by a few Claiborne County citizens has resulted in approximately 4,500 signatures being turned in on petitions to get the issue of the jail expansion project on the ballot for a vote.

County resident Joe Brooks led the effort. The deadline to get the signatures in was Monday.

“After I became aware of the plan to expand the current jail I began to look into it for myself. I soon realized there were only a few individuals that were in favor of expanding our jail, and that expansion was only one option to alleviate the overcrowding issue we have. Since no one was interested in hearing about the best option for the county — stop the business of housing inmates for revenue — this petition was the only option left. Also, by doing this petition it has given our citizens the opportunity to show how they felt across all nine of our county districts. That number has been overwhelming. I mean seriously, if we as a county could invest some $11.4 million over eight years for a return of $34 million it would be a viable option. However, we’re on the losing end of that equation by investing $34 million with only a return of $11.4 million. Besides, if it were such a good idea, all 95 of Tennessee’s counties would be doing it behind all other investors who would be looking to triple their investment.”

The names on the petitions will go through a stringent county and state certification process to determine if they are “actively registered” county voters. Approximately 1,600 certified signatures would be needed for the movement to succeed.

If enough signatures are valid, the Claiborne commissioners are expected to decide on the adoption of the referendum resolution during the regular April meeting.

If the resolution fails, by state law the county will not be able to move forward to acquire the necessary bonds to build the jail expansion.

It could cost the county taxpayers up to $80,000 to hold a special election. Otherwise, it should cost nothing if the referendum vote goes on the ballot of one of the regularly scheduled elections in August or November.

Brooks said the experience was, “In a word, daunting, but very rewarding. It has given me the opportunity to connect with a lot of citizens to better understand their thoughts on the county government an the direction it should be heading.”

Brooks and others went to all nine districts in the county, talking to as many citizens as possible.

“I would like to personally thank each of the nine county commissioners who supported this effort to let the voices of the citizens of Claiborne County be heard: Charlton Vass, Whitt Shuford, Bill Keck, Gary Poore, Nicholas Epperson, Anthony Rowe, Mitchell Cosby, Billy Johnson and Aimee Upton,” Brooks said. “I would personally like to thank Charlton Vass for hitting the pavement with me throughout several of the county’s communities, going door-to-door with me, even in Clairfield.”

Shuford said he just wanted citizens to be heard.

“We are backing this petition to give the taxpayers the ability to vote and decide whether they want the jail expansion – not to quash the project,” he said at a petition rally held at Springdale School.

Brooks said some people told him they were “scared to sign the petition,” but he felt the effort was successful.

“I would also like to thank each of the many residents who helped in this effort as well as several local businesses that had the petitions out and available to sign,” he said. “Without all of you, this effort to ensure the voices of the citizens of Claiborne County be heard would not be possible.”

Reach Marisa Anders at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @newsgirl88.

Marisa Anders | Claiborne Progress Claiborne County Clerk Evelyn Hill, left, receives a portion of petitions gathered by Joe Brooks, right, in his movement to get the jail expansion project sent to a citizens’ vote.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_petitions-being-turned-in.jpgMarisa Anders | Claiborne Progress Claiborne County Clerk Evelyn Hill, left, receives a portion of petitions gathered by Joe Brooks, right, in his movement to get the jail expansion project sent to a citizens’ vote.

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) is offering tips to help identify odometer fraud, a crime that involves the reduction of mileage on a vehicle to inflate its value.

“Odometer fraud affects consumers in two ways,” TDCI Deputy Commissioner Bill Giannini said. “First, a person may pay considerably more than the vehicle is worth. Second, they will believe that they have purchased a relatively safe, low-mileage vehicle when the vehicle is actually high mileage and potentially unsafe.”

The Motor Vehicle Commission, which is a part of TDCI’s Regulatory Boards, offers the following guidelines to help identify signs of odometer tampering:

1. Compare the mileage on the odometer with the mileage number on the last issued vehicle title, maintenance, or inspection records. Check the last oil change sticker and look for paperwork that might be in the glove box detailing repairs with date and mileage information. The vehicle title will contain the odometer reading from when the vehicle was last sold and the date. Does the current reading seem reasonable compared to this information?

2. Evaluate the wear and tear of the vehicle (brakes, tires, etc.) to see if it is consistent with the mileage number displayed on the odometer. The interior of the car also has a story to tell. Examine the usage and wear of the wheel, gear lever and pedals and compare this to the mileage number on the odometer.

3. Most automobiles will be operated at least an average of 15,000 miles per year. Multiply the age of the vehicle by 15,000. If the mileage reading on the odometer is significantly lower than the sum of that calculation you should exam the vehicle closely and compare to the other factors. If it is significantly higher that could be an indicator that the vehicle has been used as a fleet, rental, or other type of commercial vehicle.

4. For vehicles with a traditional mechanical odometer, check to see if the numbers are aligned evenly and are readable. Crooked numbers or numbers that contain gaps are often an indication of odometer fraud. Flickering numbers on a digital odometer can be an indicator of tampering or other electrical problems.

5. Check the vehicle identification number on the driver’s side dash and compare it to the number on the sticker on the driver’s side door jam. They should match. If they do not, this could be an indicator of odometer or other types of vehicle fraud.

Odometer fraud is a criminal offense. If you suspect odometer tampering has taken place, report it immediately to local and state authorities.

To view additional consumer resources, visit the Motor Vehicle Commission’s website: https://www.tn.gov/commerce/section/motor-vehicle

TDCI is charged with protecting the interests of consumers while providing fair, efficient oversight and a level field of competition for a broad array of industries and professionals doing business in Tennessee. Our divisions include the Athletic Commission, Consumer Affairs, Tennessee Corrections Institute, Emergency Communications Board, Fire Prevention, Insurance, Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, Peace Officers Standards and Training, Regulatory Boards, Securities, and TennCare Oversight.

The Powell River will once again play host to an event that, during its inaugural setting last year, attracted 49 boats to its near-pristine waters. The second annual Powell River Regatta is expected to draw a hundred or more kayaks and canoes from across the country, filled with eager participants like Olympic paddling coach Chris Hipgrave, who predicted last year an “explosion” of participation for future events.

“This year, all net proceeds will be used to improve public access for paddling and fishing on the 114 miles of the Powell River in Tennessee,” said Don Oakley, chairman of the Claiborne Chamber of Commerce Powell River Tourism Committee.

Last year, the race raised some $1,000 for the Pat Summitt Foundation for Alzheimer’s research.

The Powell River Regatta, slated for April 23, will begin at the Well Being Conference Center, located on Narrows Road in the Cedar Fork area. The 12-mile race will end at Riverside Rentals in Harrogate.

The Regatta has been divided into eight race categories. There is a $30 single kayak entry fee. Those participating with double kayaks or canoes will pay $50 per entry.

First place winners within each category will receive a $150 cash prize while second place finishers will grab $50 in cash for their efforts.

Oakley comes to the sport honestly. He spent his high school and college years rowing, competing in 1964 for a slot in the Olympics.

A lifelong rowing enthusiast, Oakley later undertook a 600 mile canoe trip through the northwest Canadian territories.

Prior to last year’s event, the avid rower confessed that, since opening the Well Being Conference Center, he rarely witnessed boaters on the Powell River.

“I’ve talked to so many people who say, when they were younger, they’d be on the river all the time. I feel like it’s a beautiful, incredible resource for Claiborne County and this is a way to encourage people to see it,” said Oakley, at that time.

The Powell is one of a handful of free-flowing rivers left in the state.

“We’ve done quite a bit of work with Lincoln Memorial University to determine the health of the river. Through their research, it’s been discovered that it’s quite a healthy river – healthy enough that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife recently reintroduced two species of federally endangered freshwater mussels back into the river,” said Oakley.

To register for the second annual Powell River Regatta, log on to: webscorer.com/register?raceid-60919.

For more information, you may access the website at: www.PowellRiverBlueway.org or contact Oakley at 423-626-9000.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress Participants from the inaugural Powell River Regatta unload at the finishing line of the 12-mile race assisted by volunteers for the event, held last year.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_Regatta-finish-line-pic.jpgJan Runions | Claiborne Progress Participants from the inaugural Powell River Regatta unload at the finishing line of the 12-mile race assisted by volunteers for the event, held last year.

We hope everyone is having a wonderful spring break! Students will report back to school on March 28. Report cards will be sent home next week also.

CHS Softball will be playing Union County at 6 p.m. on March 29.

We would like to say congratulations to Alex Reece on winning his singles match, and to Jordan Rose on winning his singles. Also, to Anthony Green and Alex Singleton for winning doubles.

We would also like to congratulate the FFA Ag Mechanics team on their win at the East Tennessee Regional Contest. The team members are Taylor Harvey, Alyssa Large, Emily Sandefur and Kaitlin Patterson, the first all-girls team to win in Tennessee history.

Thank you students for all of your hard work, keep it up!

Powell Valley School has announced the honor roll for the second nine weeks.

First grade A – Kaydence Bolinger, John Claiborne, Haley Nash, Mikaela Owens, Willow Miracle.

First grade A/B – Hunter Davis, Wyatt Hall, Layton Hinkley, Dalton Rains, Chenoa Rutherford.

Second grade A – Kylee Centers, Gavin Figueira, Kolten Goins, Mariah Jenkins, Karissa Lowe, Whitney Martinez, Cheyenne Monday, John Mack Owens, Landyn Saylor, Titus Smith, Brandi Taylor, Brianna Thacker.

Second grade A/B – Candence Boring, Brandy Branscomb, Stephanie Daniels, Elijah Hanley, Maric Russell, Jordan Walker, Mahals Walker, Lexie Weaver, Jesse Wilder.

Third grade A – Jordan Bean, Jayden Brooks, Chrissa Gibson, Gavin Owens. Cailee Pierce, Riley Rains, Isaiah Shears, Madeline Surber, Pierce Taylor.

Third grade A/B – Selena Calzadilla-Morales, Taryn Douglas, Elijah Helton, Daniel Herzig, Samuel Humfleet, Rhianna Jackson, Harmony Livesay, Troy McGeorge, Mack Mize, Levi Moore, Madelyn Osborne, Lloyd Stevens, Caleb Tigue, Hunter Wilhoit.

Fourth grade A – Daniel Boring, Lukas Burkhart, Hyrum Hinkley, Addison Nelson, Riley Owens, Ethan Powell, Abigail Smith, Jenna Wilburn.

Fourth grade A/B – Alexandria Cilenti, Hattie Damron, Faith Digiulisn, Alex Hatfield, Emily Jones, Tina Kaylor, Emma Miracle, Luke Osborne, Candice Rains, Landon Reese.

Fifth grade A – Makayla Berry, Jarrett Brock. Alexandria Johnson, Madisen Prater, Solomon Rutherford, Riley Wilder.

Fifth grade A/B – Devin Byrd, Addison Capps, Destiny Daniels, Joseph Dykes, Emily Ellison, Alexis Jenkins, Ariel Mason, Joshua Raines, Will Southern.

Sixth grade A – Mataya Ausmus, Kaley Baird, Steven Dziadul, Kayce Miracle, Justin Moore, James Myers, Jacob Osborne, David Owens, Keagan Wade.

Sixth grade A/B – Seth Abshire, Kaylie Clawson, Makayla Cutcher, Destiny Davis, Riley Edwards, Avery Hatfield, Samuel Hinkle, Allie Johnson, Madison Mize, Kailey Sanchez, Farhan sheikh, Haley Short, Abbigail Sippel.

Seventh grade A – Brett Asbury, Alana Bean, Joedee Harrison, Kayli Hinkley, Cody Johnson, Emily McNew, Courtney Owens, Peyton Wilder, Chris Wilson.

Seventh grade A/B – Angel Alvarez, Lane Graves, Jonathan Graves, Josh Hale, Dylan Harmon, Cody Mabes, Chloe Paul, Danielle Rutherford, Bruce Saylor, Aidan Shankleton, Cayden Walker.

Eighth grade A – Kayla Lambert, Kenna Lambert, Bryanna McCombs.

Eighth grade A/B – Rebekah Baker, Baileigh Capps, Haven Ellison, Haley Medley, Chelsea Mullins, Madison Nelson, Quentin Patterson, Julian Pennington, Aidan Wilson.

Names provided by school staff.

Writing is one of the skills students are taught beginning in elementary school. For many, it ends with high school but for one Tazewell resident, a dream was born.

Niki “N.D.” Cinniamon’s love for writing blossomed when she was in junior high. Her skills started with poetry, but she knew she wanted to write something that she personally would want to read.

“It’s kind of like the vampire world and werewolf world and human world all smack together. After the first book, I started to see my characters in my head and it was like a movie playing out. I knew I had to keep writing it,” said Cinniamon.

To fund her publications, Cinniamon works at Giles Manufacturing in New Tazewell where she builds mobile homes. On her breaks, she often finds herself daydreaming about characters in her books or where the next chapter will take readers.

“It’s kind of funny because when I go to work, I’m running around in a hardhat and earplugs but I’m thinking to myself that I want to be writing. It’s what I think I’m meant to do and one day I want it to be my job, when I can make more money off of it,” said Cinniamon.

So far she has published four young adult fiction books — Darkness Begins, Edge of Darkness, Taken by Darkness and Darkness at War — and is currently working on the fifth in the series. She hopes to have it completed by the end of the summer.

“I love vampires and I love to write about them. It fascinates me. I like fiction and we live in reality, so I guess fiction just interests me,” said Cinniamon.

Cinniamon has also started writing a few books of different genres including a new age Christian book, a murder mystery and a classic, older style vampire book which she compares to Dracula.

“When I’m writing, I just get so excited. If there is just one person that enjoys reading my books then I’m happy with it. I’m happy about what I’ve written and that’s what really matters and it keeps me going,” said Cinniamon.

Cinniamon’s husband Zack supports her in her decision to write and has suggested other topics for her to consider. In her free-time, she enjoys doing photography for her books, playing with her dog Lane and attends church at Little Sycamore Baptist Church in Tazewell.

Reach Kelsey Gerhardt at 606-302-9093 or on Twitter@kgerhardtmbdn.

Kelsey Gerhardt | Daily News Author Niki “N.D.” Cinniamon is one step closer to completing a book series that is chock-full of mythical creatures.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_niki.jpgKelsey Gerhardt | Daily News Author Niki “N.D.” Cinniamon is one step closer to completing a book series that is chock-full of mythical creatures.

It looks as though the DTR Tazewell plant will be searching for 60 or more new employees within the next couple of years. Facility officials announced this week plans to invest some $9 million to expand the plant by 66,300 square feet.

U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander, who attended the official groundbreaking, said the decision to expand the facility is proof that Tennessee is “the right place for the auto industry.”

One-third of the state’s manufacturing jobs, he said, are automobile related ones.

“That would not be possible without the more than 900 suppliers that provide not just the parts for cars, but good jobs for Tennesseans,” said Alexander.

According to the Tennessee Department of Economic Development, (TDED), those 900 plus suppliers are currently doing business inside 80 of the 95 counties within the state. Last year, ‘Business Facilities’ ranked Tennessee number one for automotive manufacturing strength for the fifth time in six years.

Rubber products manufactured by DTR employees wind up on the cars, trucks and other motor vehicles mass-produced by Nissan, Lexus, Ford, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Chrysler, Jeep and others.

“Today’s announcement is a credit and a compliment to the hard work and success of DTR’s Tennessee employees,” said Alexander who, during his stint as governor, is credited for his part in bringing the first Nissan plant to Tennessee.

With a November 2016 construction deadline, it is estimated the expansion will jump the employee count to nearly 800 workers by the end of 2017. The project was planned to allow DTR to increase its production of anti-vibration and sound insulation polyurethane products for the North American auto industry.

This is the fourth expansion the Tazewell plant has undergone since striking the gears to the machines for the first time in January 2003. Fifty employees were hired to manufacture the products during its first incarnation.

DTR Tennessee, Inc. is a subsidiary of the Japan-based Sumitomo Riko Rubber Industries and is ranked the third largest employee in Claiborne County.

Sumitomo Riko, who operates in 23 countries, also supplies IT, electronics, industrial and construction products.

The auto industry giant also employs over 900 workers at its nearby Greeneville manufacturing facility.

Reach Jan Runions at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @scribeCP.

Photos by Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander, fourth from the left, turns the first sod for the DTR expansion project with the help of Claiborne County Mayor Jack Daniels, third from the left, and others.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_DTR-principals-pic.jpgPhotos by Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander, fourth from the left, turns the first sod for the DTR expansion project with the help of Claiborne County Mayor Jack Daniels, third from the left, and others.

U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander visits the DTR Tazewell plant on Tuesday as part of the facility’s official expansion announcement.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_Alexander-pic.jpgU.S. Senator Lamar Alexander visits the DTR Tazewell plant on Tuesday as part of the facility’s official expansion announcement.

The DTR Tazewell plant expansion groundbreaking ceremony draws members from the county and various city governments.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_DTR-ground-breaking-pic.jpgThe DTR Tazewell plant expansion groundbreaking ceremony draws members from the county and various city governments.

DEADLINE: The deadline for submitting Area Happenings, Church Events, Reunions or Society items is Thursday at noon.

Appalachian Aglow

Appalachian Aglow meets bi-monthly at the home of Lisa Leonard in New Tazewell. If interested, call 865-585-0091 for directions and information.

Chapel of the Good Shepherd

Chapel of the Good Shepherd, the only Lutheran church in Union County, has begun to hold worship services on Sunday afternoons at 4 p.m. If you have any questions, please contact Paul Kritsch, pastor of the church, at 865-279-1279, or via e-mail at chapelofthegoodshepherd@outlook.com.

Christ the King Catholic Church

Christ the King Catholic Church welcomes the new pastor, Father Mike Creson. Mass schedule is Sunday at noon and Thursdays at 10 a.m. The church is located at 816 Blue Top Road, Tazewell.

Claiborne County Ministerial Association

Pastors and preachers of Claiborne County, the Claiborne County Ministerial Association needs your help. We now only have a few members. We do volunteer chaplain work at Claiborne Medical Center and 15-minute Daily Devotions on WNTT Radio. If God leads you to be a part of this ministry, we meet once a month at the Claiborne Medical Center conference room on the fourth Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. For further information call 865-585-7112. President, Kenny Clark.

Clinch Mountain

The annual Clinch Mountain Easter Sunrise Service will be held on US Hwy. 25E, on top of Clinch Mountain, at 7:04 a.m. on March 27, rain or shine. Everyone is cordially invited.

Dogwood Heights Baptist Church

Weekly services at Dogwood Heights Baptist Church include: Tis So Sweet Café Worship, Sunday from 8:30-9:45 a.m.; Sunday School at 10 a.m.; Worship Service at 11 a.m.; Evening Worship at 6 p.m. Wednesday evening – Bible Study at 7 p.m. Everyone is invited. Pastor, Travis Pressnell, Youth Pastor, Charlie Longworth.

FBC Deaf and Hearing Impaired Worship

The addition of a deaf interpreter for the Sunday morning worship service has brought a new ministry to First Baptist Church in New Tazewell. To learn more, call 423-626-5401 or visit at 814 Buchanan Road, next to Laurel Manor Nursing Home.

Indian Creek Missionary Baptist Church

There will be a benefit singing for Skylar McMurray, April 10 at Indian Creek Missionary Baptist Church. Dinner will be served from 5-6 p.m. and will be hot dogs, chips, desserts, drink. Pay with a donation. Singing begins at 6 p.m. The Beason Family from Maynardville, Mt. Gilead Choir, Journeymakers and others. Skylar is four years old and has been having unexplained seizures for over a year. He will soon be seen by doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for lots of tests and will be checked for cancer and brain tumors. All money raised will go toward medical and travel expenses and caring for Skylar and his family. Prayers for Skylar and his family are much appreciated.

Meyers Grove Primitive Baptist Church

Meyers Grove Primitive Baptist Church will have Women’s Bible Study every Saturday at 4 p.m. All ladies and their friends are invited to come and study together.

New Beginning Baptist Church

New Beginning Baptist Church has new meeting times. We now meet for worship on Sunday at 10 a.m. and at 3 p.m. and on Sunday at 6 p.m. for Bible study. On Wednesday at 6 p.m. we have Visitation, Bridge Builders and Youth. On Sunday nights and other nights throughout the week we offer Life Application classes.

The church is located at 2305 Highway 63, four miles west of U.S. Hwy. 25E in Harrogate. For more information please call the church office at 423-869-7378 or Pastor Donnie Bannister at 423-526-4491.

New Bethel Tabernacle

New Bethel Tabernacle, located in Tazewell at the corner of Cedar Lane and Maple, will be having an Easter program (play) March 27 at 6 p.m. that will feature a live re-enactment of our Lord being crucified. There will be refreshments after the play. Come out and experience this wonderful program. We are certain that it will inspire your Easter celebration. Rev. George Henard, pastor. Call 423-489-7291 for more information.

New Tazewell United Methodist Church

A new Weight Watchers meeting is starting Wednesdays at 5 p.m. and a new Zumba class has started every Thursday and Saturday at 9 a.m. at the New Tazewell United Methodist Church. Classes are $3 each. They will meet in the Fellowship Hall of NTUMC. For information call Vickie at 423-801-3335.

Pump Springs Baptist Church

The Well Bookstore and Gift Shop is open Mon., Tues, Thurs. and Fri. from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m., Wed. from 11 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and Sun. from 9:30-11 a.m. Someone has made a pledge to purchase a Bible to give away for every purchase made from The Well through March 31. The Well has Easter cards, gifts and supplies for Easter baskets along with new discipleship studies and Bibles. Through March 31 is also “find an egg discount,” so come in and browse around, find your discount and support by getting a Bible in every home by making a purchase.

Regional Education Center

The Regional Education Center, an FBC Ministry Center, is located at 1724 Epps Street in Tazewell. They distribute food boxes on Tuesday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon. Residents of Claiborne County need to bring proof of residence and income. The center is located behind the courthouse in Tazewell.

Servolution Health Services

The Servolution Health Services free medical and dental care clinic is open. Anyone from the Tri-State area is welcome. The faith-based clinic serves the uninsured of the area, from any state, whose income does not exceed 200 percent of the federal poverty level guidelines. Servolution Health Services is located 8.7 miles from Harrogate, off Hwy. 63 in the old Powell Valley High School vocational building in Speedwell. The address is 245 Powell Valley School Lane. To determine eligibility, make an appointment or for more information call 423-419-5070.

Springdale Baptist Church

Springdale Baptist Church will present the Gates of Heaven play on March 26 at 6 p.m. and March 27 at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome.

Stand In The Gap

Please join the Stand in the Gap Coalition for prayer the first Tuesday of each month from 5-6 p.m. at the Stand in the Gap Coalition office located at 502 Pennlyn Ave. in Cumberland Gap. The next prayer meeting will be April 5.

Thompson Chapel United Methodist Church

The Thompson Chapel Clothing Bank is in need of any and all donations. We are open Wednesday and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call 626-3913 or 626-4435 for info.

Twin City Baptist Church

Twin City Baptist Church now offers sign language interpretation of the services. Everyone is welcome.

Upper Room Ministries

Are you in need? Our monthly food drive is on the second Saturday of each month of 2015. It runs from 10 a.m. until the food is gone. It is provided by the grace of God and sponsored by Upper Room Ministries, which is located at 860 Hwy. 33 South in New Tazewell. For more information, call 423-398-3352 or email urm1993@icloud.com.

Wolfenbarger Baptist Church

Wolfenbarger Baptist Church will have a Food Drive March 26 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Call 423-489-5787 for more information. The church is located on River Road in Tazewell.

Youth 4 Truth Ministries

Youth 4 Truth cookbooks are available. We have just received our new cookbooks. They have 500 wonderful recipes and sell for $10 each. There will be a limited number of cookbooks, so get your copy now, before they are sold out. It would make an excellent Christmas or shower gift. There will be several people in the area selling them, or you can call 423-626-2674 or 865-278-6882 or 865-352-9965. Thank you so much for your support.

DEADLINE: The deadline for submitting Area Happenings, Church Events, Reunions or Society items is Thursday at noon. See our website each week for a full listing of local governmental meetings: www.claiborneprogress.net.

Free Spay and Neuter

The Animal Welfare League of Claiborne County is sponsoring a free spay/neuter for dogs and cats in the Claiborne County area for families with income less than $30,000 per year, depending upon the number of people in the household. Pick up applications at Harrogate Hospital for Animals, Russell Veterinary Services or Rowland Veterinary Services. You can also request spay applications at awlccspay@gmail.com . Complete application, including proof of income and mail to AWLCC, 200 Hatfield Morgan Lane, New Tazewell, TN 37825 or scan/email to email address above. Be sure to include a phone number.

Town of Tazewell Brush Pickup

Brush pickup for the residents of the Town of Tazewell is resuming. A maximum quantity of two brush piles 4 ft. wide x 4 ft. tall x 10 ft. long will be collected from each household per visit. Brush and limbs shall be neatly stacked in 4 ft. x 4 ft. piles with the ends facing the same direction. Exceptions: Leaves or other debris may not be mixed with brush. No stumps will be picked up or limbs larger than 6 inches in diameter. Brush must be brought to the curbside and not placed in the street or on sidewalks. Lumber or construction waste materials will not be collected. No commercial, industrial, construction, or land clearing projects are included in the brush collection program. To schedule pickup call the Tazewell City Hall at 626-5104.

Pre-K Program

The Claiborne County Pre-K Program is now accepting applications for the 2016-2017 school year. You can fill out an application at any of the classroom locations or contact The Alpha School at 423-626-3323. Locations: The Alpha School, Ellen Myers, Powell Valley, Forge Ridge, Midway and Springdale.

Free Tech Classes at Library

Need help with technology? Would you like to learn more about your mobile device? You can now schedule an appointment at the Claiborne County Public Library for free help sessions. The library will be able to help with the following: Computers, tablets, phones, use of apps, etc.

Come prepared with: The device you need help with; any necessary usernames and passwords needed to access your device and/or accounts; the device fully charged, if not, please bring a charger; questions and/or concerns about your device.

The library staff will not: Run diagnostics; troubleshoot or fix any malfunctioning devices (unless related to library services); run antivirus scans; computer maintenance; replace parts on a device; credit card transactions.

Call for information, more details or to schedule an appointment at 423-626-5414 or email at claibornelibrary@gmail.com. One-on-one or group appointments are available.

Regional Education Center

Basic computer, iPad and iPhone classes will be available at the Regional Education Center on Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. beginning March 16. There is limited seating. Please call Rhonda at 423-626-6401 to enroll. The address is 1724 Epps Street, Tazewell, TN 37879.

Spay and Neuter

Claiborne Animal Shelter will have a spay and neuter for cats on March 24. Cost is $20 per cat and $10 for a rabies shot. Space is limited. Call 423-626-2686 for appointment.

Jail Committee

The Claiborne County Correctional Partnership Act Committee (commonly known as the Jail Committee) will meet at the training room of the Justice Center on March 24 at 4:30 p.m. The public is welcome.

Courthouse Closing

The Claiborne County Courthouse will be closed March 25 in observance of Good Friday.

Joint Operating Committee

The next meeting of the Joint Operating Committee of the Claiborne Economic Partnership will take place on March 29 at noon at the Gap Creek Coffee House in Cumberland Gap. The public is invited to attend.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice, Alzheimer’s Support Group will meet the last Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Laurel Manor Nursing Facility. The next meeting will be March 31. Community partners: Alzheimer’s Tennessee; Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice; Laurel Manor Nursing Facility; Lambert Bookkeeping & Financial Services; Senior Citizens Home Assistance Service, Inc.; Claiborne-Overholt Funeral Home; Eastridge Apartments LLC; Claiborne County Office on Aging. Everyone welcome.

Emergency Communications District

The Claiborne County Emergency Communications District will meet in regular session on April 1 at 11:30 a.m. at the Claiborne County Justice Center training room.

Story Time at Library

The Claiborne County Public Library will be having a Story Time every week in the Children’s Room. Story Time will be held on Fridays beginning April 1 at 10:30 a.m. with books, music and crafts. Children of all ages are welcome. Call the library at 423-626-5414 for more information.

Broken Spur Dance Club

There will be a Silent Auction, Bingo and Dinner Fundraiser for the Broken Spur Dance Club and American Legion Building on April 1 from 6-9 p.m. Chili, hot dogs, nachos and cheese, sweets and drinks will be available to eat. Wreaths, scarves and sugar scrub will be available to purchase. Bingo will be $20 for unlimited play or $1 per game. The building is located at 335 Fulkerson Street in Tazewell, below SMMS. For more information call 865-567-7431. Broken Spur is non-alcoholic, non-smoking and family friendly.

Hopper Cemetery

It’s time to clean up Hopper Cemetery, located on Goin Road in New Tazewell, April 2 beginning at 8 a.m. Send donations to Jack Johnson, 1845 Goin Road, New Tazewell, TN 37825.

Claiborne Animal Shelter

The annual Claiborne Animal Shelter Fundraiser will be held April 2 at the Cumberland Gap Convention Center. The cost is $100 per plate for the banquet and silent auction. Cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. To reserve your seat, you may call the Shelter at 423-626-2686. To reserve a spot and pay in advance, go online to: www.claiborneanimalshelter.com.

Taylor’s Grove Cemetery

The annual meeting of the Taylor’s Grove Cemetery committee will be April 4 at 7 p.m. Anyone who has relatives buried there is welcome to attend. For information you may contact Elizabeth Williams at 865-992-8944 or Darrell Beason at 865-278-3515. We are in need of donations for this year’s mowing season. Any donations will be greatly appreciated.

Free Computer Classes

The Claiborne County Public Library will be offering free computer classes starting April 4. These classes will introduce first-time computer users to common computer terms and features, such as: How to use a computer; parts of a computer; email, Facebook, etc.; Microsoft Word; TEL; R.E.A.D.S. All classes will last for six weeks and participants will need to call and sign up beforehand. Classes will be held Mondays from 10 a.m. until noon. For more information and to register call the library at 423-626-5414. There will be no class the week of May 2 due to the library’s annual spring book sale.

Regional Planning Commission

The Claiborne County Regional Planning Commission will hold its next scheduled meeting at 12:30 p.m. on April 5 at the Chamber of Commerce Office, 1732 Main Street, Tazewell, TN 37879. The public is welcome to attend.

Bereavement Support Group

The death of a loved one by suicide presents special problems in grieving. There is often more shock, a greater sense of injustice, more guilt and blame and a heightened sense of helplessness – and these all tend to complicate the healing process for survivors. You are not alone.

There is a safe place in this community for survivors (families and loved ones of suicide victims) to share their loss with others who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. Surviving Our Loss After Suicide (SOLAS) is a bereavement support group that will provide help, hope and healing. Groups are open to all adult survivors of suicide and will be held at The Well Being Foundation, 557 Narrows Road, Tazewell, TN 37879. To reach Well Being, go approximately 8.1 miles from the stop light at Cedar Fork Road then turn left on Narrows Road. The meetings will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. Upcoming dates are April 5, April 19, May 3, May 17, June 7, June 21, July 19, Aug. 2, Aug. 16, Sept. 6, Sept. 20, Oct. 4 and Oct. 18. For more information call Tammy Wilson, facilitator, at 865-585-2917.

Claiborne ECD Meeting

The next meeting of the Claiborne Economic and Community Development Board will be April 8 at noon at the Old Town Grill in Tazewell. The public is invited to attend.

Claiborne County Kindergarten Registration

Children who will be five by August 15 are asked to pre-register for kindergarten. You are required to bring your child’s immunization record, a valid birth certificate, child’s social security number and food stamp or AFDC number, if applicable. School registration dates and times: Midway, April 8, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.; Forge Ridge, April 15, 9 a.m.until 2 p.m.; Springdale, April 22, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.; Clairfield, May 3, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.; TNT Primary, May 11, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and May 12, 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.; Powell Valley, May 6, 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.; Ellen , May 13, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

VFW Fish Fry

It’s time again for the annual fish fry at the VFW Post #8779. The event will be April 9. Take-out is $8, beginning at 11 a.m. In-house all you can eat is $10 and starts at noon. This includes fish, fries, hush puppies, cole slaw, dessert & drink (non-alcoholic). Come on out for some great catfish. All proceeds go to the Christmas Angel Fund. Thank you for supporting our local VFW Post #8779.

Rabies Clinics

The annual Claiborne County Rabies Vaccination Clinics will be held April 9 at the following locations and times: New Tazewell Citizens Bank, 1-1:45 p.m.; Springdale Elementary School, 2-2:45 p.m. On April 23 clinics will be held at HY Livesay School, 1-1:45 p.m.; Servolution, 2-2:45 p.m. The price is $10 for the one year rabies vaccination for qualifying dogs and cats. Clinics are sponsored by the Tennessee Department of Health. Participating veterinarian: Michael Rowland, D.V.M. Clinics will be held rain or shine.

Lily Grove Cemetery

The Lily Grove Cemetery annual clean-up will be April 9, beginning at 10 a.m. Afterward, a covered dish lunch will be served. Donations can be made to Bridget Day or Roy Fortner, 1318 Locust Grove Road, New Tazewell, TN 37825. If you have loved ones buried there, please help in the care of the cemetery.

American Legion Post #109

All veterans are invited to attend monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. The next meeting is April 12. Activities begin at 6 p.m. with a meal. The meeting is at 7 p.m. at 335 Fulkerson Street in Tazewell.

Bulldog Jog

The Claiborne High School Track & Field Team will be holding a Bulldog Jog 5K and 10K run/walk on April 16 beginning at 9 a.m. at Claiborne High School. The cost is $20-30 (student discount available). For more information contact Amy Munsey at CHS at 423-626-3532 or amy.munsey@claibornecsd.org.

Crazy Aunt Sadie’s Yard Sale

The annual Crazy Aunt Sadie’s Yard Sale will be held in Cumberland Gap April 30 from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. Bring your own table, tent and whatever you need to make your booth. The spaces are 9’ by 18’ down Main Street. The fee for Cumberland Gap residents is $10, $15 for non-residents. Spaces are limited and reservations are recommended. Call 760-574-1052 to reserve a space. Proceeds go to the Cumberland Gap Volunteer Fire Department. There will also be a pancake breakfast for purchase to support the fire department. The cost for the breakfast is $5.

VFW Christmas Angel Ride

It’s time for the Annual VFW Post #8779 Christmas Angel Ride. This is the eleventh year of helping the less fortunate kids in our community have a better Christmas. Registration is at 11 a.m. and kickstands up at 1 p.m. Registration fee is $15 per single rider and $5 for a passenger (includes meal and one free door prize ticket). T-shirts will be available for $13 and $15 for XXL & up. We are offering women’s shirts this year. (Pre-sale will be available). Poker hand is optional for $5, plus 50/50 for $1 a ticket. There will be door prizes (extra tickets available for $1 each) and auction items. Sponsorship is available again for $100. This gets your name on the T-shirts and one free T-shirt. We are proud to announce that Bad Decision will be the entertainment this year starting around 8 p.m. All the proceeds go to the Christmas Angel fund and as always thank you for supporting your local VFW Post #8779. For more information call the VFW at 423-626-3220.

Drug Test Kits Available

Free Saliva Based Drug Testing Kits are available, provided and sponsored through UNITE and (SIGCO) Stand in the Gap Coalition. Give Me a Reason (GMAR) is designed for parents/guardians to use to talk with their children and randomly test them, which gives them a reason to say “no” when tempted or offered drugs. They can be obtained at 44 different distribution points throughout tri-state area & at the SIGCO office, located at 502 Pennlyn Ave., Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. For more information where to find a distribution point near you contact the SIGCO office at 423-300-1302 or to pick one up stop by on Thursdays between noon and 5:30 p.m.

Free GED/High Set Classes

Classes are held in the Claiborne School Board office. For more information call 423-317-1064 or email hiset@tcatmorristown.edu.

Arthur Community Center Association

The Arthur Community Center Restoration Organization has regular meetings the second Thursday and fourth Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Arthur Community Center. All residents of Arthur Community are encouraged to attend. The ACCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration of the Arthur Community Center for the public to use for meetings, family reunions, wedding receptions, etc.

Free Classes

The Claiborne County Adult High School will be offering classes for students to earn credits to receive their Tennessee state high school diploma. Flexible scheduling will be available for both day and evening classes. If you do not have your high school diploma, please contact the Claiborne County Adult High School at 423-626-8222 for more information.

Claiborne County Historical and Genealogy Society

The Claiborne County Historical and Genealogy Society is located on Old Knoxville Road across from the library. For more information call the office 526-5737. Research hours are Sundays from 1-5 p.m. CCHGS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of Claiborne County. Please mail your tax deductible contributions or annual membership dues to: CCHGS, P.O. Box 32, Tazewell, TN 37879.

Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project

Outreach workers Tommy Brooks and Erin Haverland will be available to assist eligible veterans with enrollment in HVRP. The Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project helps veterans find secure employment through case management, job training, and referrals and links with other local service providers. Outreach workers can arrange visits with veterans in outlying areas who are unable to travel to the program office.Veterans Can Help is located at 511 Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917. Phone: 865-524-3926. In Knoxville, call 865-546-4813 for more information.

Town of Tazewell BMA

The board meetings for the Board of Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Tazewell are conducted at Tazewell City Hall at 1830 Main Street, the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The BMA workshops are on Wednesday prior to the scheduled board meeting at 6 p.m. as needed. The public is invited to attend all meetings of the board.