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.

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Claiborne Co. Sheriff’s Office

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Jackie DeWayne Berry – three counts aggravated assault

Braxton Ancil Fannon – two counts aggravated assault, one count reckless endangerment

Angela Dawn Bundy – aggravated domestic assault, reckless endangerment

Henry Allen Capps – aggravated domestic assault

Nora Victoria Lynn Loy – domestic assault

Matthew Ray Putney – domestic assault

Hannah Nicole Gibson – leaving the scene of an accident with property damage, possession of a schedule II controlled substance and drug paraphernalia, driving on a suspended or revoked license, violation of probation

James Anthony Reeves – driving under the influence

Amanda Lyke – capias/bench warrant for driving on a revoked license and violation of the registration law

Lori S. Stevenson – violation of probation for possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to appear for possession of drug paraphernalia

Benjamin Wayne Hopson – petition to revoke probation, violation of probation, failure to appear

Claudine Rebecca Burchfield – failure to appear for violations of the seat belt and financial responsibility laws

Jacob Lee Pebley – possession of a schedule IV and a schedule II drugs

Teresa Diane Poston – theft of property under $10,000

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New Tazewell Police Dept.

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Keith Hatfield – aggravated domestic assault

Gregory David Brown Jr. – criminal simulation, driving on a revoked license, violation of the financial responsibility law

Micheal Jason Gilbert – reckless driving, failure to exercise due care, possession of a legend drug and drug paraphernalia, property damage over $1,000

Thomas Andrew Simmons – reckless driving, failure to exercise due care, possession of a legend drug and drug paraphernalia, property damage over $100

Caleb M. Loveday – speeding 67/45, violations of the registration, financial responsibility and muffler laws

Logan D. Gibbons – speeding 63/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Anthony Boggs – speeding 61/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Matthew C. Taylor – speeding 68/45

Whitney B. Ellis – speeding 65/45

Michael David Ayers – violation of the seat belt law

Kelly Lynn Hill – violations of the traffic control device and financial responsibility laws

Hannah Shea Ledford – failure to yield traffic right of way

Heather Renee Coney – six outstanding warrants

Tina M. Seabolt – two outstanding warrants

Amber Leann Malone – capias/bench warrant for driving on a revoked license and violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Elizabeth Ally Cosby – violation of probation for aggravated burglary and theft over $10,000, new charges of driving on a suspended license and violation of the handicapped parking law

David Paul Miracle – violations of probation for possession of a prohibited weapon and evading arrest

Tammy H. Slusher – violation of probation

Amy Nicole Hubbard – failure to appear for speeding 60/45 and driving on a suspended license

Benny Keith McVey – failure to appear for violation of the seat belt law, new charge of driving on a revoked license

Dean Franklin Clark – failure to appear for disorderly conduct

Kerry Mitchell Evans – theft under $1,000

Robert Lee Hash III – theft of merchandise under $1,000

James Brady Burchfield – theft under $1,000 (shoplifting)

Jake D. Caldwell Jr. – violations of the driver’s license, registration and financial responsibility laws

Gary C. Hickman – violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Steven James Ayers – violation of the financial responsibility law

Steven Johnson – violation of the financial responsibility law

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Tazewell Police Dept.

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Billy Ray Noplis – indecent exposure

Branden Lee Winstead – vandalism under $1,000

Bradley Alan Russell – falsifying a drug screening

Jennifer Lowe – violation of probation warrant

Jacquis Nekiel Smith – speeding 75/45, driving on a suspended license

Mary Elizabeth Bell Reynolds – speeding 67/45, driving on a revoked license, violation of the financial responsibility law

Elizabeth Narouz – speeding 65/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Jonathan Hunter McLamb – speeding 61/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Jack Edgar Rains – speeding 61/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Richard Long – speeding 69/45

Darian Antonio Branham – speeding 69/45

Jeffrey Dale Radford – speeding 68/45

David N. Nickelson – speeding 68/45

Zachria Hasani – speeding 67/45

Seth G. Hunt – speeding 67/45

Dakota G. Brock – speeding 64/45

Gordan Ernest Arnold III – speeding 64/45

Rodney Brown – speeding 64/45

Jenna L. Milinsky – speeding 64/45

Jamie Lee Reynolds – speeding 63/45

Brooke N. Carey – speeding 61/45

Wesley B. Fisher – speeding 61/45

Terry England – speeding 61/45

Alisa Renee Mize – speeding 57/45

Wesley Joshua Hardwick – violation of the financial responsibility law

Hazel Lee Long – violation of the financial responsibility law

Christine Campbell – violation of the financial responsibility law

Steven Nicholas Lindsey – public intoxication

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Judge Robert Estep handled several violations of probation cases during recent hearings in Claiborne Sessions Court.

Kathy Rouse, 45, charged with criminal trespassing and attempted theft of merchandise under $1,000 while on probation, was sentenced to six months at 75 percent confinement. Rouse was given credit for ten days of jail time already served. She was initially found in violation of probation last September for failing to report to probation, to complete an alcohol and drug assessment and for nonpayment of court costs, fines and supervision fees. This case runs concurrently with prior ones.

Delsia Faith Anglian, 24, was charged with criminal impersonation, possession of drug paraphernalia, theft of property, shoplifting, failure to report to probation and nonpayment of court costs, fines and supervision fees while on probation. Anglian was sentenced to six months at 75 percent confinement with credit for any jail time already served.

Joshua Harmon, 27, charged with three counts of theft under $500 (shoplifting) and one count each of possession of a schedule VI and a schedule IV drugs while on probation, was sentenced to an effective two years of ETHRA supervised probation with five days confinement. Harmon was given credit for five days of jail time already served. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $225 to the Economic Crime Fund. Harmon must pay $288.33 to Walmart and is barred from its premises. He is eligible for release from supervision after serving one year, if found fully compliant. This case runs consecutively to prior violations of probation cases totaling an effective two years at 75 percent.

Franklin C. Allen, 44, charged with failure to report to probation, to complete an alcohol and drug assessment, to submit to a random drug screening and for nonpayment of court costs, fines and supervision fees while on probation, was sentenced to serve 45 days confinement and ordered to remain on supervised probation for 11 months, 29 days. Allen was given credit for seven days of jail time already served. He was granted permission to serve the balance of his sentence on 19 consecutive weekends.

Tessa B. Laws, 26, was charged with failing a random drug screening, testing positive for amphetamines and methamphetamine (lab confirmed), failure to complete an alcohol and drug assessment and for nonpayment of court costs, fines and supervision fees while on probation. Laws was sentenced to remain on 11 months, 29 days supervised probation with 30 days confinement. She is eligible for a suspended sentence in exchange for completion of an inpatient rehabilitation program.

Rita F. Long, 24, charged with failure to report to probation, to submit to random drug screenings, to complete an alcohol and drug assessment and for nonpayment of court costs and supervision fees while on probation, was sentenced to 30 days at 75 percent confinement and to serve the balance of her initial probationary sentence. Long was given credit for six days of jail time already served.

Garrett M. Keiter, 27, initially charged with failure to report to probation, to submit to random drug screenings and for nonpayment of court costs, fines and supervision fees while on probation, was sentenced to remain on 11 months, 29 days supervised probation with 20 days confinement. Keiter was granted permission to serve the balance of his jail time on consecutive weekends.

Donavan Wilson, 24, initially charged with failure to report to probation, to complete an anger management class and for nonpayment of court costs and supervision fees while on probation, was sentenced to remain on 11 months, 29 days supervised probation with 15 days confinement. Wilson was given credit for three days of jail time already served.

Tara Lynn Loop, 33, charged with failure to report to probation, to submit to a random drug screening, to complete an alcohol and drug assessment and for nonpayment of court cost, fines and supervision fees while on probation, was sentenced to serve the remainder of her supervised probation sentence and to serve ten days confinement. Loop was given credit for any jail time already served.

Lonnie Dean Gibson, 44, initially charged with failure to report to probation and for nonpayment of court costs, fines, fees and restitution while on probation, was sentenced to remain on 11 months, 29 days supervised probation and to serve ten days confinement. Gibson was given credit for four days of jail time already served.

James M. Roberts, 37, charged with failure of a first drug screening for THC, was ordered to complete the alcohol and drug class through ETHRA. Roberts is eligible for release from supervision once found fully compliant.

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

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MIDDLESBORO, Ky. — East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church welcomes new pastor Rev. Tyler DeBusk and his wife Haley Henard DeBusk.

A lifelong resident of Claiborne County, DeBusk graduated from Claiborne High School and Walters State Community College. He trusted Christ as his Savior at an early age, and at age 19, he rededicated his life to Jesus Christ. The following year, DeBusk answered God’s call to the ministry at MCM Baptist Church. At age 22, he became pastor of Riverside Baptist Church in Harrogate and remained there for seven years. DeBusk is a bi-vocational minister and has been employed at Powell Valley Electric Co-op in New Tazewell for ten years.

According to Haston Ingram, Deacon and Chair of the Pulpit Committee, the first time he heard DeBusk preach, he believed God had led DeBusk to East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church.

“Pastor Tyler delivers a dynamic and spirit-filled sermon every time he gets in the pulpit,” stated Ingram. “We all feel blessed that God led Tyler to East Cumberland.”

Debusk’s wife, Haley Henard DeBusk, is also a lifelong resident of Claiborne County. She graduated from Claiborne High School and Lincoln Memorial University. Haley is currently practicing internal medicine as a physician assistant in Tazewell. Haley accepted Christ as her personal Savior at age nine at MCM Baptist Church. Her passion is Christian music and working with the youth. Together, they make a great team for the Lord.

“It was God who called me to preach and teach His Word, and it was God who led me to East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church,” shared DeBusk. “The church has embraced me and Haley just like family, and their love and support makes us feel at home.”

Ingram would like to invite the community to hear DeBusk preach. “We want everyone in the community to come out and hear our spirit-filled pastor,” he said. “I know you will receive a blessing.”

East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church holds Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. for all ages, a morning worship service at 11 a.m. and evening worship at 6 p.m. every Sunday. They also offer a Bible study and prayer service on Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. For more information, call 606-248-1628.

Elaine Smith is a local writer and publicist for East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church. She can be reached at elainesmithpr@gmail.com.

Photo submitted Rev. Tyler DeBusk, pictured with his wife Haley, has been named as the new pastor for East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church in Middlesboro, Kentucky. Both hail from Claiborne County.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/web1_Tyler-Haley-DeBusk.jpgPhoto submitted Rev. Tyler DeBusk, pictured with his wife Haley, has been named as the new pastor for East Cumberland Avenue Baptist Church in Middlesboro, Kentucky. Both hail from Claiborne County.

Judge Robert Estep processed several plea agreements during hearings in Claiborne Sessions Court.

Alisha A. Clabough, 25, charged with two counts of child abuse, was sentenced to a concurrent 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 13 days confinement. Clabough was given credit for 13 days of jail time already served. She must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fees and was ordered to complete a mental health assessment. Clabough must also complete an anger management and parenting classes. She is barred from any contact with either of her juvenile victims and the members of their household.

David Lunsford, 51, charged with assault, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation. Lunsford must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines. He is barred from any lawful contact with his victim, and must stay at least 1,000 ft. from her home or any place she is likely to be. Lunsford is eligible for unsupervised probation once all monetary obligations are met and he is found fully compliant.

Billy Dean Smith, 37, charged with domestic assault, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 30 days confinement. Smith was given credit for 18 days of jail time already served at the date of his hearing. He must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and is barred from any contact, directly or otherwise, with his victim.

Kevin Eugene Dalton, 34, charged with driving under the influence (second offense), resisting arrest, possession of a schedule II and a schedule IV drugs and three counts of driving on a revoked license, was sentenced to a concurrent 11 months, 29 days confinement. Dalton was given credit for any jail time already served since the first offense on March 13 of 2016. This sentence runs concurrently with prior ones.

Randy Martin Gulley, 53, charged with driving under the influence (second offense), was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days Community Corrections with 45 days confinement. Gulley was given credit for five days of jail time already served. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines. His driver’s license is revoked per the Department of Safety.

Danielle M. Atkins, 43, charged with driving under the influence and possession of a schedule II drugs, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with two days confinement. Atkins was given credit for two days of jail time already served. She must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines and must complete the MADD Victim Impact Panel. Her driver’s license is revoked per the Department of Safety.

Danielle Harding, 32, charged with driving under the influence, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days TDOC supervised probation with 40 days confinement. Harding was given credit for any jail time already served. Estep granted her permission to serve her unsuspended confinement on consecutive weekends. Harding must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines and must attend the MADD Victim Impact Panel. Her driver’s license is revoked for one year. This sentence runs concurrently with a prior violation of probation one.

Jeffery Scott Fuson, 43, charged with criminal trespassing and driving on a suspended license, was sentenced to a concurrent six months ETHRA supervised probation with six days confinement. Fuson was given credit for six days of jail time already served. He must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines. This sentence runs concurrently with a prior violation of probation case in which Fuson failed to report to probation, to submit to random drug screenings and to pay court costs and supervision fees while on probation.

Timothy David Powers, 24, charged with criminal impersonation, was sentenced to six months confinement. Powers was given credit for two days of jail time already served.

James Reeves, 37, charged with possession of methamphetamine, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 30 days confinement. Reeves was given credit for any jail time already served. Estep granted permission for Reeves to serve his confinement on consecutive weekends. He must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines.

Janie Hembree, 39, charged with possession of methamphetamine, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 30 days confinement. Hembree was given credit for 12 days of jail time already served. She was given permission by Estep to serve her confinement on nine consecutive weekends. Hembree must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines.

Timothy James Ables, 32, charged with theft under $1,000, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation. Ables must pay at least $75 in court costs and fines and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. He is barred from the Walmart property. Ables is eligible for unsupervised probation once all monetary obligations are met and he is found fully compliant.

Crystal Gayle Collins, 38, charged with theft under $500, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with six days confinement. Collins was given credit for six days of jail time already served. She must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. Collins must pay $24.32 in restitution to the Tazewell Food City and is barred from the store property. She is eligible for unsupervised probation once all monetary obligations are met and she is found fully compliant.

Corey Matthew Williams, 36, charged with theft under $500, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with six days confinement. Williams was given credit for six days of jail time already served. He must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. Williams must pay $9.84 in restitution to the New Tazewell Walmart and is barred from the store property.

Christopher R. Cody, 25, charged with attempted theft under $1,000 and violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws, was sentenced to a concurrent six months unsupervised probation. As a condition of his probationary status, Cody was ordered to pay all court costs in full by the date of his next court hearing on June 29.

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

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VERSAILLES — Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) President Jay K. Box announced Friday the appointment of Dr. Vic Adams as president/CEO of Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKCTC).

Adams, of Middlesboro, Kentucky, is an experienced leader who currently is chief Workforce Solutions Officer and vice president at SKCTC. He also is the Middlesboro campus director. Adams recently served as interim president/CEO of Gateway Community and Technical College (GCTC). He has been affiliated with SKCTC in various leadership and teaching positions since 1997.

“Dr. Adams’s broad range of experience at SKCTC is an enormous asset to the college,” Box said. “He also successfully led GCTC during his interim appointment there. We are fortunate to have such a seasoned college and community leader serve as president of this college.”

Adams earned a doctorate in community college leadership from Mississippi State University, an educational master’s degree in administration from Lincoln Memorial University and a bachelor’s degree in arts and sciences from the University of Kentucky.

“We made a great selection of Vic Adams to lead our college in the 21st century,” said Ray Doss, SKCTC board chair. “We’re very proud of our selection.”

Adams begins his duties as SKCTC president on June 1.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to serve as president of Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College,” Adams said. “This college and the people who work here are the best you’ll find anywhere. They are dedicated to their students and this community, and my goal is to help them make this college even better.”

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A man guilty of second-degree murder of a Speedwell man was recently sentenced.

Roy Michael Ford was found guilty of second-degree murder Jan. 26 by a Claiborne County Criminal Court jury. He was sentenced by Judge Shayne Sexton to 17 years at 100 percent Tennessee Department of Corrections confinement.

“Based upon Ford’s criminal history, Ford is a Range One offender, which carries a sentence of 15-25 years,” said 8th Judicial District Attorney General Jared Effler.

Ford, 60, of Speedwell, was charged after an altercation with Billy Scott Brogan, also known as Scotty, that occurred along the shoulder of Hwy. 63 on May 30, 2015. The location was near the turnoff to Powell Valley School in Speedwell.

According to a report by Det. Bradley Duncan of the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office, his investigation revealed that Ford fatally shot Brogan with a .38 special handgun during the course of the incident. The report states that after the shot was fired, Brogan attempted to flee from Ford. The victim collapsed near the rear of his own vehicle, landing face down in a ditch, the report states.

Duncan retrieved the handgun and three spent .38 shell casings at the scene.

Brogan, also of Speedwell, was 44 at the time of his death.

Ford was arrested at the scene and booked into the Claiborne County Jail under a $500,000 secured bond.

Later, while under care in the Claiborne Medical Center, Ford reportedly assaulted a duty nurse and two sheriff’s deputies during a disruption on June 3, 2015.

Deputy Randy Wilmoth stated in his report that Ford struck the deputy on his chest, swung at him and attempted to reach for his firearm prior to the arrival of fellow officer Andrew Sturgill.

“The defendant (Ford) failed to comply with the commands of both officers and, trying to intimidate the officers, began slinging trays and tearing items off the wall in his room,” the report reads, in part.

The officers deployed tasers, according to the report, “with little to no effect on the defendant and force was ultimately employed by the officers in an effort to subdue him.” Once restrained, Ford was given a sedative, the report says.

In September 2015 a grand jury indicted Ford for second-degree murder, attempted escape and three counts of assault.

Based upon the guilty verdict, Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton revoked Ford’s bail and he was taken back into custody at the Claiborne County Jail, according to the 8th Judicial District Attorney General’s Office.

This case was prosecuted by Duncan of the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office. Members of the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Claiborne County E-911, Claiborne County EMS, Speedwell Volunteer Fire Department, Claiborne County Rescue Squad and Tennessee Highway Patrol assisted in the investigation.

At trial and sentencing, the State was represented by Effler and Assistants District Attorney General Graham Wilson and Matthew McClung.

Attorney Wesley Stone has been representing Ford.

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

Roy Michael Ford

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Roy-Michael-Ford.jpgRoy Michael Ford

A Pineville, Kentucky, man led three area law enforcement agencies on a chase Saturday that began when he allegedly fled from a traffic stop.

Middlesboro Police Department Officer Jeremiah Johnson attempted to stop a person around 8 a.m. who he knew to be Jacob Kirk Slusher, 26, who was operating a 2003 Mitsubishi Coupe.

According to a report from The Big One WRIL, Johnson confirmed Slusher was the operator of the vehicle with Middlesboro Dispatch. Slusher was traveling east on North 25th Street, 10 mph over the posted 35 mph speed limit, and was not wearing a seat belt, the officer reported. Johnson turned on his blue lights, but Slusher failed to pull over. The officer stated in his report that he saw Slusher moving inside the vehicle as if hiding something. Slusher then turned onto 15th Street and finally pulled over.

Johnson was joined by Officer Michael Smith to confront Slusher. According to the report, Slusher was asked for his operator’s license and he said he didn’t have it, but did supply his insurance and registration information. Johnson stated in his report that he observed that Slusher was “shaking, sweating, and had dilated pupils.” Johnson asked Slusher if he had anything illegal on him or in his vehicle due to his behavior. The report states that Johnson asked also based on a prior stop that allegedly involved a quantity of suspected methamphetamine and Slusher had allegedly fought with police and attempted to flee the scene at that time.

Slusher was asked to step out of his car and stated, “Why, there is no reason,” and allegedly refused to get out. When Johnson reached in to unlock the door Slusher accelerated, spinning the tires and “almost taking the officer with him as he sped away,” according to the report.

Johnson and Smith began pursuing Slusher down 15th Street, turning into the mall parking lot, through the Gulf gas station directly into traffic, then travelling south on U.S. Hwy. 25E at a high rate of speed, the officers stated, adding that at one point Slusher allegedly switched lanes, driving into oncoming traffic in the northbound lane.

A U.S. Park Ranger joined the pursuit near the off ramp to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Slusher continued through the tunnel into Harrogate, where the park ranger followed him onto Bristol Road. The report states that Slusher lost control of his car, wrecking in a sharp curve. He then fled on foot into a wooded area with the park ranger behind him.

Officers Johnson and Smith assisted in the search and were joined by Claiborne County deputies. Claiborne County Sheriff David Ray told WRIL that three of his deputies were on scene. CCSO Deputies Napier, Hayes and Cardwell assisted in the search. At one point Napier was also chasing Slusher on foot. Ray also said that the chase has been recorded into NCIC (National Crime Information Center) as part of the process in establishing warrants against Slusher.

As of press time, Slusher had not been located. A warrant for his arrest has been issued and he is facing several felony charges. If you know the whereabouts of Jacob Kirk Slusher, please contact the Middlesboro Police Department at 606-246-3636.

Photos courtesy of Tony Bradley and WRIL A Pineville man led officials with the Middlesboro Police Department, U.S. Park Service and Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department on a chase that ended in a wreck on Bristol Road in Harrogate. Jacob Slusher allegedly fled on foot and has not been located.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Chase-1.jpgPhotos courtesy of Tony Bradley and WRIL A Pineville man led officials with the Middlesboro Police Department, U.S. Park Service and Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department on a chase that ended in a wreck on Bristol Road in Harrogate. Jacob Slusher allegedly fled on foot and has not been located.

Photos courtesy of Tony Bradley and WRIL A Pineville man led officials with the Middlesboro Police Department, U.S. Park Service and Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department on a chase that ended in a wreck on Bristol Road in Harrogate. Jacob Slusher allegedly fled on foot and has not been located.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Chase-2.jpgPhotos courtesy of Tony Bradley and WRIL A Pineville man led officials with the Middlesboro Police Department, U.S. Park Service and Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department on a chase that ended in a wreck on Bristol Road in Harrogate. Jacob Slusher allegedly fled on foot and has not been located.

Jacob Slusher

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Jacob-Slusher.jpgJacob Slusher

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

Driver License Safety Checkpoints

The Tennessee Highway Patrol will be conducting driver license roadside safety checkpoints during the week of April 30-May 6 on Cave Springs Road, State Routes 32, 33, 63 and 90, in Claiborne County. Recognizing the danger presented to the public by unqualified drivers, Troopers will concentrate their efforts on vehicles being operated by drivers who would violate the driver license laws of Tennessee. The Tennessee Highway Patrol has found these driver license roadside safety checkpoints to be an effective means of enforcing driver license laws of Tennessee while ensuring the protection of all motorists.

Library Spring Book Sale

The Claiborne County Public Library will hold its Spring Book Sale the week of May 1-6. The event is slated for Monday through Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Hardback books, audio books, puzzles, movies and movies will be $1, tradebacks will be $0.50, paperbacks and magazines will be $0.10 and Bibles are free. Everything is sold as-is. The sale will be held in the library’s basement. For more information about these and other special programs, call 423-626-5414.

Tazewell Planning Commission

The Town of Tazewell Planning Commission meeting on May 2 is rescheduled to May 9 at 7 p.m. The reschedule is for the month of May only and then the regular schedule will be resumed. The regular monthly meetings are the first Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer will be observed May 4 at noon at Claiborne County Courthouse in Tazewell. This year’s theme is “For Your Great Names’ Sake, Hear us, Forgive us, Heal us.” At this crucial time in our nation’s history, we can do nothing more important than pray. Please make plans to join fellow Christians nationwide for this public expression of prayer to God for His divine guidance.

BEE FRIENDS

Spring is here and the bees are out. If you are thinking about keeping bees whether you are new to the idea, have been around bees a lot, or anywhere in between please join us at two events that we will be having during the first week of May. All are welcome. We are BEE FRIENDS, the local beekeeping group. Our regular monthly meeting is on May 4 in the auditorium of the Tazewell Campus (the old high school) of Walter State Community College. Ace Ely, one of our members, will be speaking about inspecting hives. Then on May 6 we will host the annual field day during which everyone is invited to participate in actual hive inspections. If you’ve ever wondered what happens inside a bee hive, this is your opportunity to learn about that. Protective jackets and veils will be provided. This event will take place at the Well Being Conference Center on Narrows Road in Tazewell. If you plan to attend the field day, please wear clothing which covers your legs and feet. If you have questions, you can call Jay at 423-268-4785. Coffee and dessert will also be available at no cost.

Gibson Hall F.C.E.

The Gibson Hall F.C.E. will hold a yard sale May 4 and 5, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at 803 Old Jacksboro Road, New Tazewell.

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: Powell Valley, May 5, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; TNT, May 20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; TNT, May 11, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Springdale, May 12, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Ellen Myers, May 19, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Tri-State Youth Choir

The Tri-State Youth Choir is now performing in local churches and raising funds for their summer mission trip. On May 6 the choir will hold a yard sale in the parking lot of H.Y. Livesay Middle School. The choir, in existence for over 30 years, ministers to local churches and then travels on a mission trip to another area. Performances coming up include: May 7, Midway Baptist; May 21, New Beginning Baptist and May 28, Pump Springs Baptist Church. All performances begin at 6 p.m. except Midway, which begins at 7 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend the performances and activities.

Rabies Clinics

Claiborne County Rabies Vaccination Clinics will be held May 6 at New Tazewell Citizens Bank 2-2:45 p.m.; Springdale School 3-3:45 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, CVM. The clinics will be held rain or shine.

CCSWA Board Meeting

The Claiborne County Solid Waste Authority Board Meeting will be held in the large courtroom of the Claiborne County Courthouse on May 8 at 6 p.m.

CHS Golf Tournament Fundraiser

There will be a golf tournament fundraiser on May 11 at Woodlake Golf Course to support the boys’ and girls golf teams at Claiborne High School. Tee time will be 8:30 a.m. The cost is $300 per four-person team or $75 per player. Proceeds will go to help the golf teams during their season of golf. If you don’t have a team but would like to play, have questions or sign up, call Scott Payne at 423-851-1645 or Sue Bailey at 423-526-7468. If you want to sponsor a hole, it will be $100 for a sign which will be put on a hole for everyone to see.

Crazy Aunt Sadie’s Yard Sale

Crazy Aunt Sadie’s annual yard sale will be held in Cumberland Gap on May 13 from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. There are 9’ x 18’ parking spaces available down the main street at $10 per space, $5 extra for electricity. You must bring your own table, tent and whatever you need to make your booth. Spaces are limited and reservations are recommended. Reserve your spot today by visiting the website https://www.crazyauntsadies.com/ There wil also be a Pancake Breakfast at $5 per plate. The space fee and pancake breakfast donations go to support the Cumberland Gap Volunteer Fire Department.

CC Emergency District Meeting

The Claiborne County Emergency Communications District will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed FY 17/18 budget on May 16 at 11:30 a.m. in the Claiborne County Justice Center training room. Following the public hearing, the board will meet in regular session.

Benefit Event

There will be a benefit fundraiser for Kristie Shell on May 20, from 2-9 p.m. at the Jaycee Fairgrounds. Food, live music, face painting, T-shirts, a bounce house as well as an auction and raffle will take place. Proceeds go to Kristie Shell for medical expenses.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice, Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the last Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Laurel Manor Nursing Facility. The next meeting is scheduled for May 25. 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.

Clinch-Powell Head Start Registration

The Clinch-Powell Head Start Program is currently taking applications for children three and four years of age at all Head Start Centers in Claiborne County for the 2017-2018 program year. The child must be three years old by August 15, 2017 to be age eligible for the program. Services are provided five days a week with centers open 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Transportation services may be provided dependent upon availability. The program provides services to special needs children, including children with severe disabilities. For more information or to complete an application, please contact: Child Development Center, 626-6423; Ellen Myers Center, 869-4513; SMMS Center, 626-1622; TNT Center, 626-5708; Clairfield Center, 784-7700; Powell Valley Center, 869-0222; Springdale Center, 626-5152.

Claiborne County Pre-K Round Up

A Pre-K Round Up is available for qualifying children who will turn four by August 15 for the 2017-2018 school year. Classroom locations are at the Alpha School, Ellen Myers, Forge Ridge, Powell Valley and Midway. We are encouraging all parents to register for our high quality early learning programs. Our program will give your child the foundation for education success. For information contact The Alpha School at 423-626-3323.

Lily Grove Cemetery

If you have loved ones buried at Lily Grove Cemetery, donations can be sent to Bridget Day at 1088 Locust Grove, New Tazewell, TN 37825. Any help from those that have loved ones buried there will be greatly appreciated. All donations will go toward the care of the cemetery.

River View Cemetery

Donations are needed for River View Cemetery. Send donations to: Hazel Gilbert, 537 Pump Springs Road, Harrogate, TN 37752.

Free Smoke Alarms

Springdale Volunteer Fire Department in partnership with the American Red Cross and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (Dept. of Commerce & Insurance) will provide and install free smoke alarms to eligible households. If you live in the Springdale VFD district and need smoke alarms in your home, please provide the VFD with the following information: name, address, number of bedrooms, (number of children, handicapped living in house), daytime and evening phone number, and if you presently have any working smoke alarms. If you are unsure what fire district you are in, send the information anyway and we will make that determination. (DO NOT CALL 911.) Send the information to: Springdale Volunteer Fire Dept., P.O. 327, New Tazewell, TN 37924. Someone will contact you when we will be installing the alarms. If may take some time to compile the information and get to all the qualifying homes. However, this is a two-year project, so please be patient. The American Red Cross and Springdale VFD will decide the order of installation.

Narcotics Anonymous

NA meetings are held every Wednesday and Saturday at 6 p.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Middlesboro, Kentucky. For more information call 606-670-4356.

Sycamore Valley FCE Club

The Sycamore Valley FCE Club still has pecan pieces for sale at $9 per pound. This is our fundraiser to help 4-H Club and CEASE shelter. Contact Jane Fugate at 423-626-7496.

American Legion Post #109

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

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.

Bee Friends

If you are thinking about keeping bees, whether you are new to the idea, have been around bees a lot, or anywhere in between please join us at our next meeting. All are welcome.We are BEE FRIENDS, the local beekeeping group. We meet monthly, on the first Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the Tazewell Campus (the old high school) of Walters State Community College. As you enter the parking lot for Walters State, there will be a banner at the door to the auditorium. Coffee and dessert will also be available at no cost.

Beginner’s Computer Class

The Claiborne County Public Library is hosting a beginner’s computer class at the Harrogate Senior Citizens Center every other Friday at 1 p.m. For more information call the library at 423-626-5414.

City of Harrogate Meetings

The following meetings are held at Harrogate City Hall, 138 Harrogate Crossing: Board of Mayor and Aldermen – fourth Monday each month at 6 p.m.; Work Sessions – each month on the Tuesday prior to the BMA meetings, at 6 p.m.; Parks and Recreation Committee – second Monday of the month at 6 p.m., on an as-needed basis; Planning Commission – second Monday each month at 6:30 p.m. The Book Station Committee meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. at the Harrogate Book Station, 310 Bristol Road. All meetings are open to the public.

Cumberland Gap Meetings

The regular monthly meetings for the Cumberland Gap Historical Zoning Commission will be held the first Tuesday (following the first Monday) of every month at 7 p.m. at the Cumberland Gap Town Hall, 330 Colwyn Street Cumberland Gap (if no items are to be discussed a meeting will not be held). The public is invited to attend.

The regular monthly meetings for the Cumberland Gap Planning Commission will be held the second Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Cumberland Gap Town, 330 Colwyn Street Cumberland Gap (if no items are to be discussed a meeting will not be held). The public is invited to attend.

The regular monthly meetings for the Town of Cumberland Gap Board of Mayor and Alderman will be held the first Monday evening of every month at 7 p.m. at the Cumberland Gap Town Hall, 330 Colwyn Street, Cumberland Gap. The Cumberland Gap Beer Board meeting follows the board meeting each month. At least one week before the regular scheduled meeting the board meets in a study session to review and finalize the agenda. That meeting starts at 6 p.m. and is usually held the Monday before the regular scheduled meeting. Both meetings are open to the public.

Free Adult High School Classes

The Claiborne County Adult High School is now offering free classes for students to earn credits to receive their Tennessee state high school diploma. Flexible scheduling is available for both day and evening classes. For more information, contact the Adult High School at 423-626-8222.

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.

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.

Greene County Skills

Greene County Skills, Inc. is seeking individuals in Tennessee that have developmental or physical disability. Tennessee has a grant program offering assistance. For more information, call Greene County Skills, Inc. at 423-798-7137, ask for Karin Hagenburger or 423-798-7144 Teresa Crawford, Family Support Coordinator.

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.

River View Cemetery

Donations are needed for River View Cemetery. Send donations to: Hazel Gilbert, 537 Pump Springs Road, Harrogate, TN 37752.

Town of New Tazewell Meetings

The Town of New Tazewell board meetings for the Board of Mayor and Aldermen are conducted at New Tazewell City Hall at 413 First Avenue, the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The Board of Mayor and Aldermen workshops are held one hour prior to the regular meeting. The Planning Commission meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. The public is invited to attend these meetings.

Town of Tazewell Meetings

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 Planning Commission Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. The public is invited to attend these meetings.

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

Tri-State Youth Choir

The Tri-State Youth Choir is now performing in local churches and raising funds for their summer mission trip. On May 6 the choir will hold a yard sale in the parking lot of H.Y. Livesay Middle School. The choir, in existence for over 30 years, ministers to local churches and then travels on a mission trip to another area. Performances coming up include: May 7, Midway Baptist; May 21, New Beginning Baptist and May 28, Pump Springs Baptist Church. All performances begin at 6 p.m. except Midway, which begins at 7 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend the performances and activities.

Taylors Grove Missionary Baptist Church

Taylors Grove Missionary Baptist Church will have a yard sale May 6 beginning at 8 a.m. at Oakwood Surplus Barn, 623 Straight Creek Rd., New Tazewell, located near the Claiborne County Justice Center.

Poplar Grove Missionary Baptist Church

There will be a soup bean, chicken and dumplin’ dinner, May 7 at Forge Ridge School cafeteria from noon until 3 p.m. The cost is $6. Proceeds go to the church building fund.

Twin City Baptist Church

Teacher Appreciation Sunday will be May 7 at 11 a.m. We would like to invite you to this special service. It is designed to recognize and to encourage all those involved in teaching the next generation. Todd Peoples, Pastor, 1409 Tazewell Road, Tazewell. RSVP to Pastor.TwinCity@icloud.com or 423-626-2674 by April 28.

Liberty Baptist Church

Revival will begin at Liberty Baptist Church on May 7 at 6:30 p.m. The remainder of the services will start at 7 p.m. Visiting preachers will be Rev. Ryan Debusk and Rev. Randy Boldin. Everyone is invited. Rev. Kenny Clark, pastor.

Midway Baptist Church

The Tri-State Youth Choir will be performing May 7 at 7 p.m. They will be leaving this summer on their annual mission trip where they will be presenting their musical program. Everyone is invited to be a part of our services on May 7. We know you will be blessed. Sunday morning services: 10 a.m. Worship services: 11 a.m. Sunday night services: 7 p.m. Wednesday night: Adult Bible study, Youth services and Children’s program at 7 p.m. Senior Ministry: Every first and third Tuesday at 11 a.m. Ronnie Pressnell, Pastor. Kenny Trent, Assoc. Pastor. Jason Miracle, Youth Pastor.

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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 Ray Powell. 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.

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.

FBC New Tazewell

First Baptist Church of New Tazewell is now offering free dinner on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. before Bible studies for kids to adults. The church is located at 814 Buchanan Rd., New Tazewell. For more information call 423-626-5401.

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Regular services include: Sunday School every Sunday at 10 a.m. with worship at 11 a.m. Sunday night service every first and third Sunday at 7 p.m. We also have a fifth Sunday night singing at 7 p.m. Pastor Kenny Williams and the congregation invite everyone.

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.

On Wings as Eagles

On Wings as Eagles is a non-denominational church located at 213A S. Broad Street, New Tazewell. Tuesday meeting is at 7 p.m. Thursday, youth services and drama are at 6 p.m. Sunday services are Sunday School at noon, worship service at 1 p.m.

Pump Springs Baptist Church

PSBC has added an early worship service. The early worship service is held at 8:30 a.m. Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m. and morning worship is at 11 a.m. Everyone is invited.

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.

Stand in the Gap

Free saliva-based drug testing kits are provided and sponsored through UNITE and Stand in the Gap Coalition (SIGCO). 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. Kits can be obtained at 44 different distribution points throughout the Tri-State area and at the SIGCO office. For more information call the SIGCO office at 423-300-1302. To pick up a kit, stop by on Mondays from 1-5:30 p.m. The Stand in the Gap Coalition office is located at 502 Pennlyn Ave. in Cumberland Gap.

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.

Get healthy Claiborne and surrounding counties! The Claiborne County Health Expo is designed to showcase vendors, programs, and opportunities to get people moving, taking action and making choices to be healthier. The Expo will provide health screenings, wellness information, resources, and much more, all in one place at one time.

The Claiborne County Health Council, Claiborne County Senior Citizens Centers and Pump Springs Baptist Church are sponsoring a community Health Expo on May 5 at Pump Springs Baptist Church in Harrogate from 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The theme is “Get Healthy Claiborne County.”

The Health Expo is open to all residents of Claiborne and surrounding counties, according to Donna Williams, with the Claiborne County Senior Citizens. There will be lots of free information, some free screenings for blood pressure, blood glucose, carotid Doppler, bone density, pulse ox, balance etc. and, blood work at a reduced cost. The lab will be there at 7:30 a.m. to draw blood, remember you need to fast to have blood work done.

Door prizes will be given out throughout the day to participants in the health fair. For more information, call Carol Brandon, Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences at 423-626-3742.

The full Claiborne school board met in its first regularly scheduled committee meeting last week, spending nearly two hours poring over various bits of business.

A substantial amount of that time was spent debating the merits of two tiny tracts of land, located on the grounds of Powell Valley Elementary.

The two tracts, measuring roughly eight-tenths and eight-hundredths of an acre, respectively, are situated alongside farmland recently purchased by a private entity.

As discussions wore on, it became clear that selling one of the tracts could place the school system in a precarious situation, effectively ‘landlocking’ the sewage treatment plant currently serving the school campus.

If sold, the new owner of the adjoining cattle farm could erect a fence along his property line, cutting off any future expansion of the treatment plant while barring access for routine maintenance and repairs of the existing facility.

The main concern, however, seemed to be the potential for conflicts arising from the existing freshwater runoff drainage pipe, located on one of the tracts.

Apparently, the former owner of the adjacent farmland had kept the tract mowed for several years, as a way to generate more hay for his farm animals.

When the land was sold, the new owner was apparently under the impression that it was a part of the farm.

When the mistake was discovered, he asked that the school system grant him a quit claim deed, transferring the property to him.

County attorney James Estep III was able to contact the cattle farmer via telephone, during the committee meeting.

Estep reported back to the board that the farmer did not want to pay for the land.

“He said he would give us an easement. He would put in a gate — because he’s going to fence it — so that we would have access to it. And, we keep the sewage treatment plant property. In return, we would convey him that (the other tract). He’d swap with us, basically.

“He’s alright with the drain. He said, if you dig it up, you just smooth it back over, when you got done. But, you have to do that. The state would require that, on that easement, from that sinkhole,” said Estep.

Two separate deeds, showing accurate ownership of the two tracts of land, will be drafted. That way, there will be no future disputes, Estep said.

The school board will officially vote on the matter during its regularly scheduled monthly meeting, on May 11. This meeting will be held at the Cumberland Gap High School.

Due to a conflict in scheduling, the next monthly consolidated committee meeting will begin at 6 p.m. on May 18, inside the Central Office board room.

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

Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress Incoming and outgoing, the two Claiborne directors of schools sit side by side as the first consolidated committee meeting gets underway. From the left are Dr. Joseph Miller and Connie Holdway.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Miller-Holdway-BOE-pic.jpgJan Runions | Claiborne Progress Incoming and outgoing, the two Claiborne directors of schools sit side by side as the first consolidated committee meeting gets underway. From the left are Dr. Joseph Miller and Connie Holdway.

Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress The Claiborne school board conducts its first consolidated committee meeting, as members pore over a map of the Powell Valley Elementary property. School board member Shane Bunch, seated on the left, points to the map while board member Wade Breeding, also seated, looks on. Standing from the right is Connie Holdway, current director of schools, school safety director Bob Oakes and Dr. Joseph Miller, who will become the next director of schools on July 1. Also clearly pictured are board member Justin Cosby (from the back), county attorney James Estep III and board member Linda Fultz. School board vice-chairman Shannon England is partially shown, standing beside Fultz. Chairman Neta Munsey and board member Micheal Jo Gray are present but not shown in the photo.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Bunch-Miller-Holdway-BOE-pic.jpgJan Runions | Claiborne Progress The Claiborne school board conducts its first consolidated committee meeting, as members pore over a map of the Powell Valley Elementary property. School board member Shane Bunch, seated on the left, points to the map while board member Wade Breeding, also seated, looks on. Standing from the right is Connie Holdway, current director of schools, school safety director Bob Oakes and Dr. Joseph Miller, who will become the next director of schools on July 1. Also clearly pictured are board member Justin Cosby (from the back), county attorney James Estep III and board member Linda Fultz. School board vice-chairman Shannon England is partially shown, standing beside Fultz. Chairman Neta Munsey and board member Micheal Jo Gray are present but not shown in the photo.

You want to do what is best for your children. There have been many debates back and forth in popular culture: Are vaccines really safe?

The answer is YES. Vaccines are an important part of your child’s health care. They are safe and necessary to the health of our kids and our communities.

April 22 – 29 was National Infant Immunization Week, an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and celebrate the critical role immunizations play in protecting our children, communities, and public health. The United States celebrates NIIW as part of World Immunization Week, (April 24-30, 2017), an initiative of the World Health Organization.

1.) Immunizations can save your child’s life. Because of advances in medical science, your child can be protected against more diseases than ever before. Some diseases that once injured or killed thousands of children are no longer common in the U.S. – primarily due to safe and effective vaccines. Polio is one example of the great impact that vaccines have had in the United States. Polio was once America’s most feared disease, causing death and paralysis across the country, but thanks to vaccination the United States has been polio-free since 1979.

2.) Vaccination is very safe and effective. Vaccines are only given to children after careful review by scientists, doctors and health care professionals. Vaccine side effects are almost always mild such as redness or swelling at the site of the shot, but this is minimal compared to the pain, discomfort, and risk of injury and death from the diseases these vaccines prevent. Serious side effects following vaccination, such as severe allergic reaction, are very rare. The disease-prevention benefits of getting vaccinated are much greater than the possible side effects for almost all children.

3.) Immunization protects others you care about. Children in the U.S. still get vaccine-preventable diseases. In fact, we have seen resurgences of measles and whooping cough (pertussis) over the past few years. For example, in 2014, there were 667 cases of measles in 27 states, the greatest number of cases since measles was eliminated in 2000. The following year saw measles cases as well. During 2015, 147 people were part of a large, multi-state measles outbreak linked to an amusement park in California. Almost one in 10 people who became sick with measles in this outbreak were babies too young to be vaccinated. While some babies are too young to be protected by vaccination, others may not be able to receive certain vaccinations due to severe allergies, weakened immune systems from conditions like leukemia, or other reasons. To help keep them safe, it is important that you and your children who are able to get vaccinated are fully immunized. This not only protects your family, but also helps prevent the spread of these diseases to your friends and loved ones.

4.) Immunizations can save your family time and money. A child with a vaccine-preventable disease can be denied attendance at schools or daycare facilities. Some vaccine-preventable diseases can result in prolonged disabilities and can take a financial toll because of lost time at work, medical bills or long-term disability care. In contrast, getting vaccinated against these diseases is a good investment and usually covered by insurance. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program is a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children from low-income families.

5.) Immunization protects future generations. Vaccines have reduced and, in some cases, eliminated many diseases that killed or severely disabled people just a few generations ago. For example, smallpox vaccination eradicated that disease worldwide. Your children don’t have to get smallpox shots anymore because the disease no longer exists anywhere in the world. By vaccinating children against rubella (German measles), we have dramatically reduced the risk that pregnant women will pass this virus on to their fetus or newborn, and birth defects associated with that virus are seen in only rare cases in the United States when a pregnant woman who was never vaccinated against rubella is exposed to someone who contracted rubella in another country. If we continue vaccinating now, and vaccinating completely, parents in the future may be able to trust that some diseases of today will no longer be around to harm their children in the future.

The LMU Medical Clinic participates in the VFC program. Most insurances are accepted including Medicaid. The LMU Medical Clinic is a not-for-profit clinic that provides immunizations and medical care to the community at both their Harrogate (165 Westmoreland Street) and New Tazewell (424 North Broad Street) locations. The clinic’s office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 423-869-7193 to make an appointment.

For more information about the importance of infant immunization, visit CDC’s vaccine website for parents: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/index.html

This article was contributed by the health care providers of the LMU Medical Clinic and is not intended to provide specific medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice or medical assistance, please contact your physician.

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When many people think of Native Americans, their mind takes them to a middle school history class and a textbook filled with pages of primitive sketches of a rough, simplistic life; however, Tazewell resident and ‘history buff’ Suzie Wikle is setting the record straight.

“One big thing I want to impart to visitors is that in the schoolbooks, what we learn about the Indians is really a lot of misconceptions as them being ‘stone age men’ — primitive and not as smart, but they had the same brains that we have and they were smart,” said Wikle. “They adapted as conditions changed and they were really good at using what they had, what they found in nature and that’s something I want people to take away with them.”

Wikle is a reenactor at Wilderness Road State Park. She portrays a woman who is part Cherokee and part English who is living among the Cherokee.

“In that time, if you lived with (the Cherokee) and worked with them, then you were considered Cherokee no matter what you looked like,” said Wikle. “I’m reading a book right now about being biracial or mixed blood then and it’s not what people commonly think.”

She is one of few native female reenactors and can often be found fearlessly participating in a battle. In the native camp area of Martin’s Station, Wikle often helps build structures using native tools, gardens with seeds that were commonly planted by natives and participates in educational talks about the ways of life among the Cherokee and their interactions with others along the Wilderness Road.

She is originally from Ohio and has studied her family lineage which brought her to Tennessee. Her mother’s family is originally from the area and Wikle started reenacting to help represent part of her family history in the Cherokee, Scottish, Welsh and English communities.

“It’s my love of history but it’s also something I feel I was called to do. I love being in nature, working in the native camp, but also I grew up reading and was drawn to it at a young age — before I could even read,” said Wikle.

In her spare time she enjoys reading, studying history and flower gardening.

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

Kelsey Gerhardt|Daily News Suzie Wikle is a reenactor at Wilderness Road State Park. Her goal as a reenactor is to set the record straight about what life was like in the 18th century.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_suzie.jpgKelsey Gerhardt|Daily News Suzie Wikle is a reenactor at Wilderness Road State Park. Her goal as a reenactor is to set the record straight about what life was like in the 18th century.

Middlesboro Coca-Cola Bottling Works, Inc. has announced that it has signed a non-binding letter of intent with The Coca-Cola Company to expand the bottler’s distribution territory in the Somerset area.

According to a news release, the agreement includes the acquisition of territory in Lincoln, Rockcastle, Jackson, Pulaski, McCreary, Wayne, Clinton, and the southern portions of Cumberland and Monroe counties in Kentucky.

“We intend to integrate our Middlesboro and Somerset teams into a Coca-Cola unit to deliver exceptional service to Southeastern Kentucky. It is important to share with our current Coca-Cola franchise customers that Middlesboro Coca-Cola will remain exactly the same,” the release states. “Cumberland Gap Mountain Spring Water will continue to be produced at the Middlesboro facility. Our purpose is to honor God and serve our customers and communities at the highest level.”

Officials anticipate that this transaction will close in the later part of 2017, and that the company will be fully operational in the Somerset market beginning in early 2018.

“More information will be shared as we progress through the acquisition process,” states the release. “Since 1904, Middlesboro Coca-Cola has been one of the largest employers in the Tri-State area of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia. We look forward to working with the outstanding team in Somerset and supporting them in continuing their history of success”

The headquarters for Middlesboro Coca-Cola Bottling Works, Inc. are located and will remain in Middlesboro, Kentucky. For more information about the company, please visit www.mccbw.com or follow Middlesboro Coca-Cola on Facebook.

Photo submitted Middlesboro Coca-Cola has announced an expansion.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Coca-Cola.jpgPhoto submitted Middlesboro Coca-Cola has announced an expansion.

PENNINGTON GAP, Va. — The U.S. Marshals Service says it is still searching for two escaped inmates out of Lee County, Virginia. The two were last seen early Wednesday morning.

The U.S. Marshals Service told WJHL News Channel 11 Kamal Qazah and Salah Mohamed walked away from the USP Lee prison camp.

Federal officials said the inmates were discovering missing from the prison camp around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, according to the news report.

Both are serving sentences for non-violent crimes and are not considered armed and dangerous.

On Thursday, afternoon the Department of Justice revealed to WJHL more details about the background of the two escapees.

Mohamed, 35, is described as having black hair and brown eyes. He is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds.

Qazah, 37, is said to have black hair and brown eyes. The report states that he is 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs 225 pounds.

The DOJ says Mohamed was sentenced in the Eastern District of Virginia to 191 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, and heroin; conspiracy to ship, transport, receive, possess, sell, distribute, and purchase contraband cigarettes; and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.

Qazah was sentenced in the Western District of North Carolina to 172 months for conspiracy to commit interstate transport of stolen goods and receive property stolen in interstate commerce; receive stolen property and aiding and abetting; conspiracy to commit money laundering; and money laundering and aiding and abetting.

The U.S. Marshal Service says citizens should use caution if they see these inmates and report any sightings to the USMS at 276-628-9402, call 540-857-2230 or email USMS84.TIPS@usdoj.gov.

A reward for information leading to their capture is set at a total of $5,000 or $2500 per escapee.

The Federal Prison Camp in Pennington Gap is a minimum security facility that houses about 115 male inmates.

Information from www.wjhl.com.

Salah Mohamed

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_thumbnail_mohamed_2.jpgSalah Mohamed

Kamal Qazah

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_thumbnail_qazah_3.jpgKamal Qazah

The town of Cumberland Gap is full of hidden treasures which are appealing to visitors and area residents alike. Aside from the lush hiking trails, steep views and tasty restaurants is the oldest building in town — The Olde Mill Bed and Breakfast.

This treasure recently came under new ownership while still offering comfortable rooms, classic hospitality and a southern style breakfast for patrons. Just a few months ago Serge and Kimberly Kotlar bought the business.

“We had talked about owning a bed and breakfast, but we found out one came up for sale and it was too perfect,” said Kotlar. “We’d always wanted to own our own business so this was meant to be.”

The Kotlars moved to Middlesboro, Kentucky, from Wisconsin two years ago because they eventually wanted to retire in the area. They closed the business for a month to remodel and renovate, but shortly reopened with the same classic, historical vision which is common for the town.

“A lot of people enjoy the area more than natives do — people that come into the town almost show us locals new things to do that we just don’t think about and this is one of them,” said Amy Marcum, business manager. “This area is so wonderful and I think we take it for granted.”

The Kotlars insist on hospitality at the highest level — fulfilling guest requests and special needs while operating the business as a family. Max Schmeling is another one of the managers and is also the Kotlars’ nephew, and their children, Benjamin and Amanda, enjoy helping make meals for the business.

“We didn’t really do it for the business aspect of it, but we’ve really come to love the hospitality aspect of it — helping people, taking care of people and doing little things to make their stay in the area better,” said Kotlar. “This really doesn’t seem like work or a job, plus you get to talk to a variety of people.”

They have plans to reopen the waterwheel to grind cornmeal, open the business for tours, host corporate meetings, participate in community events and release an international version of the website to increase the accessibility for foreign visitors.

To learn more about the history of The Olde Mill Bed and Breakfast or to book a reservation, visit www.oldemillinnbnb.com. It is located at 603 Pennlyn Ave. and can be reached at 423-869-0868.

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

Kelsey Gerhardt|Daily News Serge and Kimberly Kotlar are the new owners of The Olde Mill Bed and Breakfast in Cumberland Gap. Business managers Max Schmeling and Amy Marcum work to ensure that guest needs are met.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_mill.jpgKelsey Gerhardt|Daily News Serge and Kimberly Kotlar are the new owners of The Olde Mill Bed and Breakfast in Cumberland Gap. Business managers Max Schmeling and Amy Marcum work to ensure that guest needs are met.

Lincoln Memorial University will hold its Spring Commencement Exercises on May 6 at 11 a.m. in Tex Turner Arena on the main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee. Rev. Daniel Paul Matthews, rector emeritus of the historic Trinity Church on Wall Street in New York City, will deliver the graduation address. Matthews will receive an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters for his lifetime of charitable efforts and service to humanity.

Over 400 degree candidates will participate in the ceremony as the University confers 127 associate, 124 baccalaureate, 159 masters and 25 doctoral degrees. Among the graduates will be the fifth graduating class of the LMU Duncan School of Law, with 17 individuals receiving their doctorate of jurisprudence degrees.

Matthews was born in Chicago and moved to Western North Carolina during grammar school. He spent the first 20 years of his ministry as an Episcopal priest in Tennessee. A hallmark of his career has been serving larger, inner city parishes beginning with St. John’s in downtown Knoxville. The work of the parish there focused on the broad needs of the city, a calling that continued as he moved on to St. Luke’s in Atlanta before joining Trinity Church in 1987.

On September 11, 2001, Matthews witnessed the second plane fly into the World Trade Center South Tower from his Parish’s offices. He was forced to evacuate with his staff and children from the Parish pre-school. Trinity’s historic chapel, St. Paul’s — across the street from the World Trade Center — served as a 24-hour center of refuge and relief to the emergency workers for eight months following the attack.

“On September 11, 2001, we ran for our lives escaping the thundering collapse of the towers just 150 yards away,” Matthews said. “None of us will ever be the same.”

Matthews has made appearances on all three national network evening news shows, and many others, as an advocate for and commentator on the church’s post-September 11 mission. On March 3, 2006, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his leadership at the time.

In retirement Matthews and his wife Diane reside in Manhattan. He serves as chair of the nominating committee at The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine where he maintains an office.

Rev. Dan Matthews

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Dan-Matthews.jpgRev. Dan Matthews

Carl Bolton was elected to the Claiborne County Farm Bureau Board of Directors in 1950. During his 66 years of service he not only served as board member but also on numerous committees at the county and state levels. He held the office of president from 1996-1999. Carl even filled in as an insurance agent for approximately one year.

When Bolton started on the board there were approximately 300 Farm Bureau Member Families in Claiborne County. When he gave up his board position in January of 2017 there were 6,359 members. His leadership and hard work were a huge part of that growth.

Bolton was honored in 2017 with the Tennessee Farm Bureau Distinguished Service Award at the annual State Convention. This honor is just for people like him, who have spent a large part of their life supporting agriculture and educating others on the importance it plays in their life.

Claiborne County Farm Bureau presented Bolton with a plaque for his many years of service at the April board meeting. His dedication and hard work will be missed by all.

Photo submitted Carl Bolton, right, was recently honored by the Claiborne County Farm Bureau for his many years of service. Claiborne County Farm Bureau President Larry Keck presented Bolton his plaque.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Carl-Bolton.jpgPhoto submitted Carl Bolton, right, was recently honored by the Claiborne County Farm Bureau for his many years of service. Claiborne County Farm Bureau President Larry Keck presented Bolton his plaque.

Commissioner David Purkey, head of the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, will deliver the spring commencement address for Walters State Community College. Commencement begins at 10 a.m. on May 6 in the Walters State Great Smoky Mountains Expo Center.

The college will confer 1,352 degrees and certificates.

Purkey has dedicated his life to public service, beginning his career as a 911 dispatch officer and then serving as a state trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol. He also served as an officer in the Tennessee Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserves.

He went on to serve 15 years as Hamblen County mayor before retiring in 2010.

Purkey was appointed by Governor Bill Haslam to serve as the governor’s homeland security advisor and assistant commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. He served two years as director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. He was appointed to his current position by the governor in 2016.

Purkey holds degrees in public health from East Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee. He has been a licensed emergency medical technician for the past 35 years.

The commencement ceremony, including the address, will be video streamed live at www.ws.edu.

David Purkey

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_David-Purkey-WSCC.jpgDavid Purkey

Happy anniversary to us! This year marks the 130th anniversary of the Claiborne Progress! To commemorate our anniversary, we are having a year-long celebration. We will include historical stories and photos in each issue for the rest of this year. We need your help, though – there is so much history here in Claiborne County and we want you to share yours. Send us your stories and/or photos, and we will use as much as possible in print and/or online. If you know of someone who has a story to tell, let us know. We want to highlight Claiborne County’s colorful history. Send your ideas and submissions to manders@civitasmedia.com.