Find success at your local farmers market by knowing what’s in season and how to care for what you buy. Take a look at these tips, and you’ll be ready to get the freshest and best the next time you head to the local farmers market. And remember: always look for the Pick Tennessee Products logo! It’s your guarantee that the product you purchase is as fresh and local as it gets.

For more detailed information about storing and using your local produce throughout the year, check out “Southern In Season,” the new icookbook from Pick Tennessee.

At the market:

• Arrive early—specifically, before 9 a.m. if it’s an all day market. The early bird does indeed get the worm — or in this case, the okra or green beans.

• Come prepared. Bring a reusable bag with comfortable handles for easy transport.

• Bring a cooler along to keep produce chilly on the trip home. This is especially important as summer temperatures rise.

• Bring cash and small bills. Not all farmers markets accept credit/debit cards and large bills are hard for them to make change.

• Talk to the farmers. No one knows the ins and outs of food like the people who grow it. Farmers can tell you how and where your food is grown, plus how to store and prepare it.

• Heirloom tomatoes have unique flavors and colors. Don’t hesitate to ask the farmer about differences in varieties. Most will also give you a taste.

• Local honey is a great product thought to help with allergies. Look for fresh local honey in spring and fall.

• Learn what’s in season to ensure you have realistic expectations of what can be grown locally in Tennessee. Then you won’t be disappointed if your favorite vegetable is not in season yet. Don’t plan on local asparagus in August!

• Your nose knows the best cantaloupe. Sniff the stem end. It should have a great melon aroma.

• Cucumbers should have completely green outer skins. They begin to turn yellow as they age.

• Eggplant should be shiny, heavy for its size and without wrinkles.

• Peaches continue to ripen after picking. Buy them at various stages of ripeness so you don’t have use them all at once.

• Be careful if you handle too many hot peppers at the market. Wash your hands promptly and avoid touching your eyes.

• Okra should be no longer than 5 inches to taste best. Never wash okra until you’re ready to use it, or it will become slimy.

• Check the bottom of the container when purchasing blackberries or raspberries. It should not be stained or moist.

• Berries do not ripen at all after picking, so look for berries that are full and plump. When purchasing strawberries, make sure you select those that are completely red all the way to the cap.

• Corn with little dents in the middle of the kernels is over mature, which results in a starchy taste and texture no matter when you pick it.

• Want to make apple butter? Then purchase a variety of different apples. It gives extra flavor to the finished product!

• Always purchase clean produce that looks as fresh as possible. Don’t be shy about asking about best use and varieties.

At Home With Your Fresh Finds:

• Store your purchases properly. Fresh food and plants are easily damaged and bruised.

• Store leafy greens in a loose, open plastic bag in your refrigerator.

• Store tomatoes with the stem end up. Tomatoes continue to ripen after picking, so don’t worry about some green at the top. Never store tomatoes in the refrigerator, as they will quickly lose flavor.

• Don’t wash berries until you are ready to use them. Try to use berries within three or four days of buying them.

• Treat cut herbs like flowers and stand them in a vase with water. If you purchase herbs as live plants, pay close attention to the sun requirements.

• Store tomatoes with the stem end up, as it grows on the vine. The shoulders are the most tender part and bruise easily. Tomatoes will continue to ripen some after picking, so don’t worry about a little green at the top. Never store tomatoes in the refrigerator, as they will quickly lose their flavor.

• Don’t wash berries until you are ready to use them; the best way to keep them is in a single layer on a baking sheet. Try to use berries within three or four days of buying them.

• Freeze berries of all kinds by laying them carefully on a baking sheet and placing the sheet in the freezer. Once they’re frozen, then bag them up in freezers bags. That way, they’ll pour out easily instead of freezing into a hard lump.

• Root vegetables such as beets, carrots and turnips should have the tops removed as soon as you get home. The tops pull moisture from the roots, shortening their shelf life.

• Winter squash varieties keep well if stored in a cool, dry place. Look for those with no cuts in the skin or soft spots.

• Remember that hard shelled squash varieties are not only great fall decorating items, but are also edible. If too hard to cut in half, bake it whole at 350 degrees until tender. Then it slices easily.

From picktnproducts.org

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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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Von Royce Harold Hatfield – first degree assault – class B felony (hold for Bell County, Kentucky)

Dean Franklin Clark – unlawful possession of a weapon, receiving stolen property, tampering with evidence

William Tyler Brim – driving under the influence (second offense), reckless driving, violation of the registration law

Wesley Blake Brogan – reckless endangerment, reckless driving, felony evading arrest, resisting arrest, driving on a suspended license, failure to use motor vehicle turn signal, violations of the traffic control device and registration (improper display) laws, violations of probation for theft under $500 and two counts driving on a suspended license

Steven Cole Helton – fraudulent use of a credit card, failure to appear for six counts of forgery, three count of theft of property under $500 and one count of theft of property over $500

Micheal Jason Gilbert – criminal trespassing, possession of drug paraphernalia

Tessa Blake Laws – criminal trespassing

Justin Ryan Sweet – revoked bond

Andrew Taylor Putney – outstanding child support attachment

Tara McFall Cupp – outstanding child support attachment

Adam Franklin Payne – capias/bench warrant for theft of property up to $250,000, new charges of theft of property up to $60,000 and passing a worthless check over $2,500 (felony)

Jason A. Clark – capias/bench warrant for leaving the scene of an accident with property damage under $1,000, failure to exercise due care, driving on a suspended license and violation of the financial responsibility law

Amber Nichole Honeycutt – capias/bench warrant for theft of property up to $10,000, violation of probation for theft under $500

Mary Elizabeth Goins – violation of probation for driving under the influence

Carolina Grace Harp – violation of probation for prescription fraud

Mary Lou Price – violation of probation for fraudulently obtaining medical assistance

Keela Renee Hudson – violation of probation for possession of a schedule II controlled substance with the intent to sell

Timothy Quinton Conard – violation of probation for possession of marijuana, failure to appear for a violation of probation for possession of marijuana

Anthony Wade Eldridge – violation of probation for attempted theft over $1,000

Kendra Denise Walker – violation of probation for possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to appear for possession of drug paraphernalia

Erica Lauren Cavins – failure to appear for child abuse and neglect, possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication, violation of probation for possession of drug paraphernalia

Stephanie Rochelle Hoskins – possession of drug paraphernalia

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New Tazewell Police Dept.

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Chasity Ann Thomas – aggravated domestic assault, resisting arrest

Amanda L. Slusher – two counts domestic assault, one count domestic vandalism

Robert Wesley Allen Thomas – domestic assault, assault

Adam Cody Emert – violations of probation for aggravated assault and kidnapping

Ronnie Lynn Foister – outstanding warrant

Sasha Diann Marshburn – speeding 40/20, violation of the financial responsibility law

Kendra Ann Miracle – speeding 43/20 (school zone)

Jason R. Wise – speeding 77/45

William (Trey) Edward Johnson III – speeding 61/45

Robert Brian Reece – violations of the traffic control device and financial responsibility laws

Levi Garrett Maloney – violation of the light law

Teddy P. Seals – failure to yield traffic right of way

Jerry Lynn Collins – possession of a schedule II controlled substance, failure to appear for violation of the seat belt law (use of safety belts in a passenger vehicle)

Theresa June Short – theft involving merchandise under $1,000

Summer Lynn Holt – theft involving merchandise under $1,000

Logan Brett Pittman – violations of the driver’s license and financial responsibility laws

Kevin R. Murrell – violation of the registration law

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Tazewell Police Dept.

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Austin Marsee – speeding 63/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Candice Cindy Rai – speeding 71/45

Effie S. Sizemore – speeding 63/45

Walter M. Moore – speeding 62/45

Ronda M. Helton – failure to yield traffic right of way (involving an accident)

Charles Caleb Daughtery – violations of the light, registration (misuse of) and financial responsibility laws

Lance Wayne Ford – outstanding state warrant for possession of a schedule II controlled substance

Dillon M. Edwards – capias/bench warrant for the sexual exploitation of a minor

Ashton Alexis Kimsey – violation of probation for driving under the influence, failure to appear for driving under the influence

Steven Cole Helton – five outstanding criminal warrants

Jordan Seth Blackburn – driving on a revoked license

Frankie Lynn Hoskins – driving on a suspended license

Sarah Elizabeth Cupp – possession of drug paraphernalia

Margo Renee Smith – possession of drug paraphernalia

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Tennessee Hwy. Patrol

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Sandy Annette Martin – driving under the influence (second offense), driving on a revoked license, failure to appear for speeding and violations of the seat belt, driver’s license, registration and financial responsibility laws

Darrell Scott Chumley – driving under the influence

Ashley JoAnn Burkhart – violations of probation for driving on a revoked license, failure to appear for driving under the influence (second offense) and driving on a revoked license

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As warmer weather sets in, the trees fill out and the flowers start to bloom, we are reminded why Tennessee is a beautiful state to call home. However, you may not realize that those trees and plants may be at risk. Invasive plant pests and diseases are a threat that is easy to overlook yet can have a devastating impact on our entire state.

Once pests and diseases establish in an area, they don’t move far on their own. Everyday actions—like taking firewood from your home to your campsite or mailing a gift of homegrown fruits or plants—can contribute to unintentional spread. So when people wonder if their individual actions really matter, the answer is yes.

Insects like the emerald ash borer (EAB), gypsy moth (GM) and Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) present a constant threat to the Volunteer State. These insects can hide in or on firewood and it only takes one person to move something they shouldn’t. For instance, we know the EAB beetle didn’t fly to Tennessee on its own. It hitchhiked here, and to 30 other states. Now all of our urban, suburban and rural ash trees are at risk of attack.

If we allow invasive plant pests and diseases to enter our state, the impacts can be far-reaching. Pests have the power to devastate our neighborhoods and public green spaces, and cause harm to native species of plants, forests, watersheds, lakes, rivers and water delivery systems. As it stands today, damage from invasive plant pests costs our nation about $40 billion annually.

To protect Tennessee, we are asking you to join us in the battle. As Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month draws to a close, we can’t let that awareness waver. For more information and ideas for how you can get involved, the website www.protecttnforests.org is a valuable resource. We urge you to do what you can to help stop the spread of these harmful pests.

Jai Templeton is the Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture. Jason Watkins is the USDA APHIS State Plant Health Director.

The Claiborne Commission will be voting this month on a resolution that, if adopted, will force property owners to ‘measure up’ to county standards or be penalized for maintaining “unhealthy and unsafe” conditions on their own land.

The commissioners attempted to quietly pass a similar resolution, several months ago. However, public outcry prevented that particular piece of county legislation to become a reality.

The revamped, nine-page resolution barely made it by deadline last Friday. The document was typed that same day for inclusion into the monthly commission information packets normally distributed ten days prior to each meeting.

Resolution 2017-031 states its purpose is to provide regulatory standards for health and safety conditions of residential and nonresidential properties.

The proposed resolution points to Tennessee Codes Annotated, section 5-1-115, in authorizing the county to create any rules or regulations that prevent dangerous conditions from overgrown vegetation, vacant dilapidated buildings or structures, junk motor vehicles and the accumulation of debris, trash, litter and garbage.

If adopted, the resolution will effectively create a need for an enforcement officer and a hearing board.

Violations would come under civil, not criminal law and would not automatically fall under ‘purview’ of the Claiborne Sheriff’s Department, according to the document.

The proposed hearing board would consist of five members, appointed by County Mayor Jack Daniels and approved by the commission. The hearing board members would serve staggered four-year terms. Any compensation would be at the directive of the commission.

The resolution calls for the hearing board to assist those financially or physically unable to comply with the regulations by recruiting or coordinating efforts with nonprofit organizations, neighbors and religious institutions.

The qualifying state statute does not require this particular passage. It is included, according to the proposed resolution, to increase compliance.

According to the resolution, property owners will be held responsible for the violations whether or not the conditions were brought about by tenants, leaseholders or other persons.

Apparently, it would take just three neighbors, within 100 yards of the ‘offending’ property, to warrant an investigation by the enforcement officer. If the officer is able to observe the alleged violation from a public road, the property owner will be served notice, according to the proposed resolution.

The landowner will have ten days to either request a hearing or comply with the violation.

“Any person aggrieved by an act of the Hearing Board under the provisions of this regulation may seek judicial review of the same under Tennessee Codes Annotated, Title 27, Chapter 8, Part I,” states section IV (d) of the resolution, in part.

Section VII (a) of the proposed resolution states that the hearing board will have the right to “remedy” the situation if the landowner fails to comply within the allotted time.

“The costs of such action shall be assessed against the owner of the property. Upon performance, the actual cost of such repairs, alterations or improvements or vacating and closing or removal or demolition by the county or its agent shall, upon the filing of a notice with the office of the register of deeds, be a lien in favor of the county against the real property on which such cost was incurred, second only to liens of the state and county for taxes, any lien of the county for special assessments, and any valid lien, right or interest in such property duly recorded or duly perfected by filing prior to the filing of such notice,” reads the section, in part.

Parcels of land on which an owner-occupied residence is located will be exempt from the placement of a lien for costs. Enforcement will be done via civil penalties assessed in General Sessions Court.

‘Junk’ vehicles will be removed by the county only if doing so will not conflict with state statutes.

“…any violation of these regulations that is caused solely by the presence of junk motor vehicles on private property shall only be enforced by civil penalties,” reads section VII (b), in part.

Any business operated in accordance with the Tennessee Solid Waste Disposal Act will also be exempt from this proposed resolution.

Section IX (a) states that the hearing board may put into operation any additional rules and regulations it deems necessary to administer and enforce, subject to approval by the county commission.

If adopted, the Claiborne Health and Safety Regulations would become effective 60 days after its passage.

Revenue to pay for the costs of a hearing board and enforcement officer is not addressed in the resolution. If adopted, the county commission will need to come up with a way to cover the expenditure.

Commissioner Mike Campbell is the sponsor of this resolution.

Also under new business, the commission will appoint a person to fill the seat on the Claiborne Ethics Committee. The county mayor is expected to recommend Billy Johnson and Zachary Bunch.

The commissioners will also vote on five Board of Education resolutions. Four budget amendments, pertaining to funds 116,101, 151 and 131, will be up for adoption, as well.

The commission has the option to add items to the monthly agenda, during its opening moments of the meeting.

The Claiborne Commission will meet in regular session at 6:30 p.m., on May 15, inside the large courtroom of the Claiborne Courthouse.

The public is urged to attend these monthly meetings.

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

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The Tennessee Century Farms Program was created in 1975 by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture as part of our nation’s bicentennial celebration. In 1985, the Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University assumed the responsibility for the program. The program was originally designed and continues to be a recognition and documentary effort. The Tennessee Century Farms Program has a farm in all of Tennessee’s 95 counties.

The primary focus of the program is to continue honoring and recognizing the dedication and contributions of families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. Since its inception, the statewide and ongoing program has 1625 certified farms. Of that number, 52 farms were founded in or prior to the year 1796, the year Tennessee became a state. Thirty farms are on the National Register and eight are a part of the Land Trust for Tennessee. Additionally, ten have African-American founders and four were founded by women.

Secondly, it is a documentary program that collects and interprets the agrarian history and culture of the state. The collection has supported the 1985 book, Tennessee Agriculture: A Century Farms Perspective; a traveling exhibit that toured the state from 1988-89; articles in journals and magazines; county displays; local museum exhibits; brochures and booklets; and web sites.

Families choose whether or not to submit an application and be a part of the program. The Century Farms Program places no restrictions on the farm and offers no legal protection.

Information from www.tncenturyfarms.org

Reminders are out there, in the newspaper and in the classroom, that a school year is fast drawing to a close. Parents of school-age children may not need to be reminded. They likely hear comments on a daily basis as dreams of vacations and the thoughts of no homework are among topics of conversation. They may be ready to welcome a change in family routines that sometimes include a note from the teacher or a forgotten homework assignment by the student.

For senior citizens, the thoughts may turn to the old song about school days “…Dear old Golden Rule days…” and to a sentimental view of their days as schoolmates. They may be reminded of “…reading and ‘riting and ’rithmatic, taught to the tune of a hickory stick…”

Regardless of age, most adults in the Tri-State area know the importance of good schools and are grateful for good teachers. In a conversation, most will recall some special teacher, one person who influenced them greatly or who assisted them in developing a skill or an interest that they had not previously had. The question is whether they personally thanked that teacher. And, do parents today take a moment out of a busy schedule to share their appreciation with special educators in the lives of their youngsters?

Now, near the end of the school year is a good time to join others in a “thank a teacher” effort. National Teacher Appreciation Week is set for the period, May 7 through May 12. Tuesday of that week is designated National Teacher Day. Instead of expecting a note from the teacher, parents might send a note TO the teacher during the week.

A brief, hand written note might surprise the teacher. Chances are it would be a pleasant and welcome surprise near the end of the current school year.

In his book, Speedwell Sketches, Lawrence Edwards devotes a chapter to “School Days.” He introduces the chapter by noting that “For generations in Speedwell life centered about three social institutions: the country school, the country church, and the country store.” Edwards was an educator himself, and he wrote that these old schools from the late 1800s and early 1900s “…boasted some good teachers…well versed in the 3 R’s and often learned to a certain extent in the scriptures, history, geography, and natural philosophy.” He cites Aaron Wetherby in particular as “…reputedly a hard schoolmaster, but admittedly a good one.”

Another Tennessean writes of a teacher in her grammar school who set very high standards of performance. Wilma Dykeman, noted author of both fiction and history, indicated she had worked harder than in any previous class, but as she went on to high school and college she developed a great appreciation for the life lessons learned from this one teacher.

Jesse Stuart, who completed his undergraduate studies at Lincoln Memorial University, is well known as the author of 30 books and hundreds of short stories, articles and poems. He was also recognized as a great classroom teacher. In one of his books, To Teach, To Love, Stuart tells of teaching in one-room rural schoolhouses in Kentucky hill country. “We never called our kids culturally deprived … we just taught them and they learned,” he said.

All three of these individuals are deceased, but their memories linger on. Did they tell their teachers, or did the students and parents they worked with show appreciation for the long hours, patience, and dedication of those who influenced them for the good?

During National Teacher Appreciation Week, parents of today’s students can express that appreciation with a note TO the teacher or teachers who deserve a note of thanks.

William H. Baker, Claiborne County native and former Middlesboro resident, may be contacted at wbaker@limestone.edu

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The third annual Powell River Kayak & Canoe Regatta netted ‘bragging rights’ for one of its participants, who managed to set a new event record during the 12-mile long course.

South Carolina resident Rick Carter, at 61 years of age, managed to grab overall first place with just one hour, 27 minutes and three seconds in the water. Carter beat out fellow Carolinian Bruce Poacher, 45, with two seconds to spare.

Powell resident Mary Flynn, 35, snagged the overall women’s time with just one hour and 37 minutes on the water.

In all, 72 boats entered the race, 28 of which were paddled by local enthusiasts. Several of the local racers placed at or near the top of the event.

Sara Painter garnered first place in the Women’s Single – aged 18 to 34 category. Second place in the Men’s Single Kayak – aged 18-34 category – was won by Matt Painter.

Holly Carmichael and Steve Roark placed second in their respective Single Kayak – aged 55 and older categories.

Thirty-three of the boats registered in the race were navigated by individuals residing in other parts of Tennessee. Eleven boats were entered by residents from out-of-state.

This year, the Regatta included space for kayakers and canoeists who simply wanted the experience of floating down the gorgeous waterway during the event, with no anticipation of earning a prize.

A total 26 individuals managed to finish the ‘recreational’ single kayak event. Included in the list is local attorney David Stanifer.

Meanwhile, a total 12 individuals navigated six double kayaks down the recreational lane of the event.

The recreational section drew people from as far away as Oak Ridge, Lafollette, Claxton, Kodak and Knoxville. Individuals from Middlesboro and Berea, Kentucky, also claimed space in the recreational portion of the event.

“After six-plus inches of rain the prior weekend, the river settled down by race day, with plenty of flow in the river, this year,” said Don Oakley, event coordinator and chairman of the Powell River Tourism Committee.

Oakley says that 12 local sponsors and over 60 people volunteered their time and services to the Regatta, making it a success from start to finish.

The 12-mile river race began at the Well Being Retreat Center and ended at Riverside Rentals.

Proceeds will be used to improve public access to the Powell River.

The Powell River Tourism Committee is under the umbrella of the Claiborne County Tourism Commission.

For a complete list of the race results, log onto: www.powellriverblueway.org/2017-regatta-final-race…/.

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

Photo courtesy of Don Oakley Two South Carolinians battle for overall first place during the third annual Powell River Regatta. Rick Carter, 61, beats out 45 year old Bruce Poacher with just two seconds to spare. Carter set a new river record with one hour, 27 minutes and three seconds, from start to finish.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Rick-Carter-and-Bruce-Poacher.jpgPhoto courtesy of Don Oakley Two South Carolinians battle for overall first place during the third annual Powell River Regatta. Rick Carter, 61, beats out 45 year old Bruce Poacher with just two seconds to spare. Carter set a new river record with one hour, 27 minutes and three seconds, from start to finish.

Photo courtesy of Don Oakley Those paddling in tandem down the 12-mile course begin their individual journeys to the finish line.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Doubles-Start.jpgPhoto courtesy of Don Oakley Those paddling in tandem down the 12-mile course begin their individual journeys to the finish line.

Two paramedics from Claiborne EMS, Danny Ramsey and Tyler King, were honored by the Tennessee Emergency Medical Services for Children at their 9th annual Star of Life ceremony held in Nashville on May 5.

The EMS Star of Life awards committee reviews nominations and selects one winner from each of Tennessee’s eight EMS regions; Claiborne is one of the 16 counties that comprise Region 2. The EMS Star of Life awards are designed to honor exceptional EMS personnel from across the state of Tennessee, and reunites EMS providers with the person treated during a presentation of the actual patient scenario.

Paramedics Ramsey and King were presented the coveted award by Dr. Michael Carr in an impressive and emotional ceremony. This is the first time that Claiborne EMS has received the award. The EMS Star of Life event is designed to honor the accomplishments of EMS personnel from Tennessee who provide exemplary life-saving care to patients.

Claiborne County residents Wesley and Emily Minton were recognized along with their daughter Amelia. Emily and the then-unborn Amelia were the recipients of the expert care of paramedics Ramsey and King. All emergency medical personnel who were involved in the emergency situation were also presented Star of Life awards, including Drew Slemp, Kay Kirkland, Casey Roubicon and Kirk Knox.

Claiborne Medical Center Claiborne Medical Center is located in Tazewell and is a member of Covenant Health. Claiborne Medical Center’s mission is to serve the community by improving the quality of life through better health. It is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

Photo submitted Claiborne County paramedics Danny Ramsey, left, and Tyler King, second from left, of Claiborne EMS were recently recognized with a statewide honor. Claiborne County residents Wesley and Emily Minton, at right, were also recognized along with their daughter Amelia. Emily and the then-unborn Amelia were the recipients of the expert care of the local EMS and others.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_IMG_5164.jpgPhoto submitted Claiborne County paramedics Danny Ramsey, left, and Tyler King, second from left, of Claiborne EMS were recently recognized with a statewide honor. Claiborne County residents Wesley and Emily Minton, at right, were also recognized along with their daughter Amelia. Emily and the then-unborn Amelia were the recipients of the expert care of the local EMS and others.

Two alumni were recognized, and several individuals were honored for their generous gifts to the Walters State Community College Foundation, during the recent annual meeting of the organization’s trustees at the college’s Morristown campus.

Eleanor Yoakum of Claiborne County, Karen Bush Everett and the late Wilma Rimmer Bush, both of Jefferson County, were recognized with the unveiling of their portraits to be displayed in the President’s Trust Gallery at the college’s Morristown Campus.

Yoakum is Chairman of the Board at First Century Bank in Tazewell. She graduated in 1965 from East Tennessee State University with degrees in speech and hearing therapy and was named an Outstanding Alumna in 1999. After beginning her teaching career in Florida, she moved back to Claiborne County to serve as a speech and hearing specialist in the public schools. She has been a champion for past and future renovations of Walters State’s Claiborne County Campus and has served as secretary, vice president and president of the Walters State Foundation.

Everett is a graduate of Randolph-Macon Women’s College. She worked as a staff assistant to U.S. Senators Milward Simpson and Howard Baker. She later edited a weekly newspaper in South Carolina and was a staff member in the Public Information Office at Walters State. She has been active in local politics and is a board member for an agency serving victims of domestic violence in Jefferson County. Everett operates Shepard Inn, a historic bed and breakfast and event venue in Dandridge, with her husband, Jim Everett.

Bush graduated from Maury High School in 1932 as valedictorian of her senior class. It was the height of the Great Depression and she did not have an opportunity to attend college and pursue her dream of becoming a math teacher. She later married and became a homemaker and mother. Bush taught teenagers and young adults in Sunday School for many years and was an active supporter of local schools. Had community colleges existed in the 1930s, she would have had a pathway to higher education. A scholarship in her memory is provided at Walters State to provide young people the opportunity she was denied.

Walters State bestowed the college’s highest honor upon two Morristown men. The 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to artist Bo Bradford and businessman George Angelos.

“The Walters State Distinguished Alumni Award is given to alumni who have demonstrated outstanding service in their profession and/or community and have brought honor and distinction to Walters State,” said Dr. Tony Miksa, president of the college, in presenting the awards.

Bradford is a self-taught artist who began painting in watercolor several years after becoming paralyzed from a diving accident in 1979. He says he learns from each of his paintings and names as teachers both “trial” and “error.” To enhance his artistic skill, Bradford earned his associate’s degree in drafting and design at Walters State in 1993. Much of his art is inspired by the countryside around Hamblen County, where he has lived for most of his life. One of his paintings was chosen last year to represent Hamblen County in the Tennessee Museum in Nashville.

Angelos came to the United States from his native Greece in 1969 at the age of 23 looking to build a brighter future. He lived in Knoxville and Johnson City before settling in Morristown in 1973. At that time, he became owner and operator of the Little Dutch Restaurant, which remains a popular fixture of downtown Morristown. Angelos graduated from Walters State in 1976 with an associate’s degree in business. His community involvement includes active participation in the Kiwanis club, Downtown Partnership, The Boy’s and Girl’s Club and the Chamber of Commerce.

Photo courtesy of Rob Barger A longtime supporter of Walters State Community College’s Claiborne Campus and the Walters State Foundation, Eleanor Yoakum was recognized with the unveiling of her portrait to be displayed in the President’s Trust Gallery at the college’s Morristown Campus. Yoakum is pictured with her husband Bill Dunavant, left, and her son Rob Barger, right.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Eleanor-Yoakum-honored-by-WSCC.jpgPhoto courtesy of Rob Barger A longtime supporter of Walters State Community College’s Claiborne Campus and the Walters State Foundation, Eleanor Yoakum was recognized with the unveiling of her portrait to be displayed in the President’s Trust Gallery at the college’s Morristown Campus. Yoakum is pictured with her husband Bill Dunavant, left, and her son Rob Barger, right.

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 13 the choir will hold a yard sale in the parking lot of H.Y. Livesay Middle School (postponed from May 6 due to weather). 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 21, New Beginning Baptist and May 28, Pump Springs Baptist Church. All performances begin at 6 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend the performances and activities.

Liberty Baptist Church

Revival began at Liberty Baptist Church on May 7, with services starting at 7 p.m. Visiting preachers are Rev. Ryan Debusk and Rev. Randy Boldin. Everyone is invited. Rev. Kenny Clark, pastor.

Indian Creek Baptist Church

The regular monthly singing will be May 14 at 6 p.m. Special singers will be The Warwick Family from Middlesboro and others. Everyone is welcome.

Sugar Grove Baptist Church

There will be a singing at Sugar Grove Baptist Church May 14 at 6 p.m. Special singers will be Higher Ground. Pastor Tom Louthan welcomes everyone.

Shawanee Missionary Baptist Church

It’s time for Vacation Bible School. Join us for a week of search the visible to discover the invisible at Galactic Starveyors. Kids will begin each day at a worship rally then explore God’s word. There will be crafts, games, snacks and more. Children from babies through sixth grade will participate June 4-9 from 6-8:30 p.m., with June 9 as Family Night. Teenagers and adults will also have an opportunity to participate in a Bible study during the week. Everyone is welcome. Call 423-869-4076 or visit www.shawaneebc.org for more information.

First Baptist New Tazewell

There will be a Vietnam 50th Anniversary Commemoration on June 11 at 11 a.m. for veterans, spouses and surviving spouses who served between 1955 and 1975. Please join as we celebrate your service and sacrifice. Please contact “Dustoff 27” Chief Warrant Officer Larry Sharp for additional information and let us honor you. The church is located at 814 Buchanan Road in New Tazewell. Call 423-626-5401 for more information.

Gibson Station Missionary Baptist Church

Vacation Bible School at Gibson Station Missionary Baptist Church will be June 26-30, from 7-9 p.m. The theme is Operation Artic, Exploring the Coolest Book on the Planet (the Bible). Join us for cool games, crafts, puppet show, and even a friendly competition that will end with a loser and a dunking booth. Classes for adults and children of all ages.

Midway Baptist Church

Everyone is invited to be a part of our services. 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.

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.

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: 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.; TNT, May 20, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Retirement Reception

There will be a retirement reception honoring Connie Holdway on May 11 from 3-6 p.m. at Cumberland Gap High School. Everyone is welcome.

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.

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 13 the choir will hold a yard sale in the parking lot of H.Y. Livesay Middle School (postponed from May 6 due to weather). 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 21, New Beginning Baptist and May 28, Pump Springs Baptist Church. All performances begin at 6 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend the performances and activities.

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.

Harrogate Work Session, Budget Meeting

The Harrogate Board of Mayor and Aldermen will conduct the regular work session and budget meeting May 16, beginning 5 p.m. at Harrogate City Hall. The public is invited to attend.

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.

Chumley Cemetery

The annual meeting will be May 21 at 2 p.m. at the cemetery, located on Chumley Cemetery Rd. in Arthur. Anyone with family members buried there are invited to attend to discuss business and maintenance. Send donations to: Chumley Cemetery Fund, c/o Joan Adams Webb, P.O. Box 115, Cumberland Gap, TN 37724.

Hooper Cemetery

The annual meeting will be May 21 at 2 p.m. In case of rain, meet at Underwood Grove Baptist Church fellowship hall. Persons with family members buried in the cemetery are urged to attend. Send donations for mowing and upkeep to: Hooper Cemetery Fund, c/o Ginger Baker, 1010 Old Jacksboro Pike, Cumberland Gap, TN 37724.

Sycamore-Campbell Cemetery

The annual meeting of members and board of trustees will be held May 21 at the cemetery, beginning at 11:30 a.m. All persons with family/friends buried at the cemetery are encouraged to attend. In event of rain, the meeting will be held at the Little Sycamore Baptist Church. Mail donations to: JoAnn Bunch, c/o Sycamore Campbell Cemetery, 1934 Grubb Street, Tazewell, TN 37879 or Margaret Seals Bull, P.O. Box 36, Tazewell, TN 37879.

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.

Bethel Church Cemetery

Anyone having loved ones buried in the Bethel Church Cemetery are encouraged to send donations to help with the mowing and upkeep of the cemetery. Send to: Bethel Church Cemetery, 2850 Cave Springs Road, Tazewell, TN 37879. Thank you for your concern.

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.

Oakes Cemetery

Donations are needed for upkeep. Please send donations to Oakes Cemetery Fund, c/o Citizens Bank, New Tazewell, TN 37825.

River View Cemetery

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

Woods-Cosby Cemetery

If you have loved ones buries in this cemetery, we need help to care for it. Please send donations to: Woods-Cosby Cemetery Fund, c/o Citizens Bank, New Tazewell, TN 37825, or Mike Cosby, 452 Goins Chapel Road, Tazewell, TN 37879.

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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Like the proverbial postman, newspaper folk work under the adage ‘through rain, sleet and snow.’ Add to that, even through fire, and you might begin to understand the mindset of the employees who toiled to bring the Jan. 8, 1997 edition of the Claiborne Progress to press.

Initial reports blamed an out of control grease fire for the destruction of the historic Foley building, located on Main Street in Tazewell. The structure housed the Progress offices in its ground floor. The fire allegedly began in an apartment located on the second story.

The call came into Claiborne E-911 shortly before 3 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, 1996. The Tazewell-New Tazewell Fire Department was dispatched to the scene, where the firefighters began the arduous task of quenching the hungry flames.

Then-editor Ron Morgan was notified at approximately 3:15 a.m., according to staff reports. He immediately jumped into action, arriving on scene minutes later.

According to filed stories, Morgan witnessed smoke pouring from windows located on the rear upper story of the building.

He says in his report that he was given permission by then-fire chief Barron Kennedy III to enter the office so that he could cover any equipment that might otherwise become water damaged during the firefight. Morgan recalls in his coverage that he was unable to do so, due to the amount of ‘foul-smelling’ smoke that had already crept into the lower floor.

He states in his story that he witnessed the roof of the building “ablaze” about 30 minutes later. The roaring flames could be seen in the early morning darkness for ‘miles around,’ he reported.

The firefighters continued to battle the flames throughout the long morning, eventually containing the fire to just the upper floor of the building.

Once deemed safe to enter, Morgan and J.T. Hurst, then-regional publisher, donned fire helmets to retrieve as much of the office equipment they could. The two men carried computers and other items to the doorway, where the rest of the staff and many of their family members waited. Those outside then carried the equipment to a borrowed truck for safekeeping.

Morgan recalled in his report that the ceiling had collapsed, with the fluorescent lights either forced down or loosely hanging. Water was everywhere, standing some eight inches deep in places and still pouring in from the upper floor.

Both men, who were diabetics, eventually became so weary of the task that they were forced to halt their search and seizure operations.

Production manager Wanda Long and advertising director Judy Buchanan immediately picked up the helmets and carried on where the men had left off. The petite women carried heavy filing cabinet drawers stuffed with records and other items from the building to safety.

Archived editions of old newspapers, dating back to 1933, were successfully retrieved. The bound copies were apparently protected by the three feet thick concrete walls, ceiling and floor of the old bank vault in which they were stored. The Progress continues to use these archived papers for research.

The employees worked as a team until very late that New Year’s Eve, fighting a bone-weary exhaustion while they began the task of listing what equipment and furnishings would be needed to outfit the temporary digs. The list would need to go through the corporate office of the parent company before purchase.

Meanwhile, the computers were taken to a Knoxville company known for successfully retrieving information from hard drives.

The sorting and drying of records and other hardcopy, retrieved from the destroyed office, began.

The company was successful in restoring the computer files of circulation records. The Progress was able to deliver every single paper to every subscriber that first week.

The initial report states that the information on the bookkeeping computers were expected to be restored by early the following week.

After a much-needed respite on New Year’s Day, Morgan writes in his story that the employees returned early the next morning. The team continued its feverish work through the next days, and over the weekend, to process the editorial and advertising copy. They managed against all odds to bring the next issue ‘to press’ on time.

Processing an edition of a newspaper 20 years ago was a gargantuan task, involving manual ‘make’up’ of each page after the copy was typed and proofed. Several of the staff would spend long hours literally cutting out pieces of typed hardcopy and fitting them onto a board measuring the same dimensions as a regular newspaper page. This method was much like creating a jigsaw puzzle every single week.

Somehow, the make-up staff made the scraps of advertising and editorial copy fit, every time.

Back then, ‘going to press’ meant just what it sounds like — producing photographed plates of each page and ‘pressing’ them on the monster ink machines.

During those first days, the staff also managed to set up the temporary Progress office, located on Court Street between the Departments of Human Services and Job Security.

Within one year, the employees were able to relocate to their custom-built office, located on the corner of Main Street and Kivett Drive.

The Progress has remained in that location for over 19 years.

Space for a one-half page advertisement was used in the first edition ‘after the fire’ to thank all those who had offered assistance in the aftermath of the destruction.

The late John Kivett, who at the time was the county historian, filed a story in the Jan. 8 edition highlighting the history of the Foley building. According to his report, the historic structure represented an important part of Main Street life for some 100 years.

Believed to have been built in the late 1890s or early 1900s, the building was first used by its owner as a grocery store. The second story was a hotel.

Claiborne National Bank, known today as First Century, apparently purchased the building in 1931 after having leased the lower floor for five or six years.

Meanwhile, the upper floor went through a few transitions. Dr. E.J. McDaniel opened his dentistry practice in 1919. A clinic was run by a Dr. McDaniel in 1929, according to Kivett.

From the 1930s through the 1950s, Dr. J.R. Greer operated his dentist office in much of the second story of the building.

Dr. C.P. Redmon, also a dentist, then took over the floor with his own practice, spanning much of the 1960s and 1970s.

Kivett states in his report that, beginning in 1980, the second story was divided into apartments and ‘rooms.’

Originally covered in brick, the Foley building was given a new façade of stone in 1952.

The Claiborne Progress had been located in the ground floor of the structure since 1969, when the bank relocated to another area.

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

Claiborne Progress archives Page one of the Jan. 8, 1997 edition of the Claiborne Progress was all about the big fire that consumed the historic building that housed the Progress office.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Progress-Fire-front-page-pic.jpgClaiborne Progress archives Page one of the Jan. 8, 1997 edition of the Claiborne Progress was all about the big fire that consumed the historic building that housed the Progress office.

Claiborne Progress archives The ‘fire story’ jumped to page three of the Jan. 8, 1997 edition of the Claiborne Progress, with additional information about the historic Foley building filed by then county historian, the late John Kivett.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Fire-pg-3-pic.jpgClaiborne Progress archives The ‘fire story’ jumped to page three of the Jan. 8, 1997 edition of the Claiborne Progress, with additional information about the historic Foley building filed by then county historian, the late John Kivett.

Lincoln Memorial University-College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) and physician assistant students from the LMU-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine will host a public health fair for people and their pets on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Middlesboro Mall across from the Bath and Body Works store.

Participants will need to bring their dog or cat with them to the event. All people will be screened for blood pressure, heart rate, blood glucose, height, weight and body mass index. Pets will be screened for blood pressure, heart rate, blood glucose, weight, body condition scoring and will be given a heart worm antigen test. Additionally, for both people and pets, questions will be asked about their perceived health, level of exercise activity and the degree of human-pet attachment.

Participants will receive a clean bill of health based on scores and values consistent with the guidelines for health and physical activity promoted by the Centers of Disease and Control (CDC) at https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/. Persons with blood pressure and blood glucose values that are higher than the normal range will receive recommendations to seek additional medical care and evaluation for medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension that could increase their risk for stroke and heart attack. All persons participating will receive recommendations for maintaining or increasing their weekly levels of physical activity. Pet companions, receive the same benefits as their people, and the pet owners are reassured their pet is healthy and will be around for a long time.

The purpose of the health fair is to enhance and encourage the mutual health and well-being and enhance the companionship between people and their pets. People with limited resources to provide for their pet’s health will be advised of programs that may be available to them at a nominal or no cost.

The public health fairs are part of a study titled, Measuring the Impact of a Mutually Reinforcing Relationship Between Pet Owners and Their Pets. This research project will analyze data collected via a series of public health fairs and develop a general model of health and wellness behavior to examine the relationship between the health of humans and their pets and whether patterns of health and health-associated behaviors are similar. It is anticipated that the model will help determine that pets share the same health benefits and risks as their owners.

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A cheerleader from Cumberland Gap High School signed this week to continue her cheer career with Tusculum College.

Surrounded by family, friends and coaches at the school, Meranda Cinnamon signed on the dotted line May 10.

“We’re proud of her,” said her mother, Melinda Cinnamon.

Her father Randall Cinnamon Jr. continued, “She gets to cheer at Tusculum and that’s what makes her happy, so we’re happy.”

Along with her mother and father was her brother, Randall III. CGHS principal Linda Keck and vice-principals DeLynn Cline and David Hamilton were also on hand to watch Meranda sign.

Meranda, who has cheered since middle school, said she looks forward to the next chapter in her cheerleading journey.

“I’m excited,” she said. “I can’t imagine not doing it (cheering).”

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

Marisa Anders | Claiborne Progress Flanked by her parents Randall Cinnamon Jr. and Melinda Cinnamon, as well as her brother Randall III, Meranda Cinnamon signs to cheer at Tusculum College.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_IMG_0681-7.jpgMarisa Anders | Claiborne Progress Flanked by her parents Randall Cinnamon Jr. and Melinda Cinnamon, as well as her brother Randall III, Meranda Cinnamon signs to cheer at Tusculum College.

The Class of 2017 of Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine will celebrate its commencement on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Tex Turner Arena on the LMU main campus in Harrogate. Robert S. Juhasz, DO, FACOI, FACP, past president of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), will serve as commencement speaker.

Juhasz has served on the AOA’s Board of Trustees since 2005 and has been chair of several AOA departments. He was chair of the AOA’s Education Policy and Procedure Review Committee III and a member of the Blue Ribbon Commission for the Advancement of Osteopathic Medical Education in 2012. Juhasz is a past president of the Cleveland Academy of Osteopathic Medicine and the Ohio Osteopathic Association. Juhasz is a graduate of John Carroll University and the Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City, Missouri, and an honorary graduate of the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OUHCOM). He completed a rotating internship and internal medicine residency programs at Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital. He served as a residency program director and chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at Richmond Heights General Hospital and as the associate dean for the OUHCOM Cleveland Extension Campus, in affiliation with the Cleveland Clinic.

As a member of the professional staff of the Cleveland Clinic, Juhasz was involved in implementing the electronic medical record at the Cleveland Clinic Willoughby Family Health Center, the first site to implement in that health system, in 2001. He was able to share the success of this implementation and its impact on patient care as part of a panel that met with President George W. Bush when he came to the Cleveland Clinic in January 2005. He served as medical director of the Cleveland Clinic Willoughby Hills Family Health Center, and in September 2013, he became the President of South Pointe Hospital in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. In April 2017, Juhasz returned to his internal medicine practice at the Cleveland Clinic Willoughby Hills Family Health Center and to medical education as a faculty member of OUHCOM and the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine. Juhasz has been an advocate for improving the volume, quality, publication and impact of osteopathic research, and to improving all medical care through the unique contributions of osteopathic medicine.

LMU-DCOM opened its doors in 2007. With a full complement of classes and a current student body of more than 600 students, LMU-DCOM has the largest medical student enrollment in the state of Tennessee. The school was the brainchild of Autry O.V. “Pete” DeBusk, chairman of the LMU Board of Trustees, who had long envisioned a medical school at his alma mater. By opening an osteopathic medical school, the University continued its long tradition of service to those in need.

In March 2017, LMU-DCOM was listed No. 1 by U.S. News and World Report for medical schools that produce the highest percentage of primary care residents. The majority of osteopathic physicians have historically entered into a primary care field upon graduation. Approximately 82 percent of the members of the graduating class at will enter their first year of residency training in a primary care track, including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN, emergency medicine, osteopathic manipulative medicine and transitional year/traditional rotating internship. The members of the Class of 2017 will be in 175 different residency programs in 35 states.

Robert S. Juhasz, DO, FACOI, FACP

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_robert-juhasz.jpegRobert S. Juhasz, DO, FACOI, FACP

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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Tristan Allen Mason – four counts each of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated burglary, two counts each of theft over $1,000, one count each of aggravated assault, aggravated burglary and possession of burglary tools

Thomas Arnold Casteel Jr. – violation of the protection of life law

Jeremiah Isaiah Vanburen – possession of a schedule III controlled substance, violations of probation for resisting arrest, driving on a revoked license (second offense), evading arrest, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of the financial responsibility law

Roy Baker Jr. – possession of a schedule II drugs and drug paraphernalia, failure to appear for possession of a schedule II controlled substance and driving on a suspended license

Lynne Louise Strong – theft under $1,000

Jason DeWayne Cupp – outstanding warrant for harboring a runaway

Jackie DeWayne Berry – violation of condition of bond

Felicia Jo Fleeman – capias/bench warrant for possession of a schedule II drugs, driving on a suspended license and violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Christopher Scott Middleton – violation of probation for aggravated assault

Tammy Renee Noah – violation of probation for driving under the influence

Candace Michelle Cash – violation of probation for simple possession of marijuana

Tyler Anthony Johnson – failure to appear for violations of the registration and financial responsibility laws

Clarissa Sue Wyrick – violation of the seat belt law

April Grace Bowlin – driving on a revoked license

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New Tazewell Police Dept.

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Charles Allen Torbett – aggravated assault, public intoxication

Heather Teal Reece – introduction of contraband into a penal facility, criminal trespassing

Tyler Shane Hatmaker – indecent exposure

Aaren J. Massengill – speeding 48/30, violation of the seat belt law

Terrence A. Baker – speeding 58/30

Judy Tiffany Hagan – speeding 52/30

Samuel Ray Shipley – speeding 51/30

Cheryn Price – speeding 65/45

Carlos Melvin Welch Jr. – speeding 63/45

Victoria Ashley Dean – speeding 62/45

Deborah D. Hanson Morneault – violation of the seat belt law (third offense)

David Jay Heath – violation of the traffic control device law

Christopher Isaiah Mullens – following a motor vehicle too closely

Brittany LeeAnn Graves – violations of the parking (inside a fire lane) and financial responsibility laws

John Junior Pridemore – violations of the window tinting and financial responsibility laws

Levi Earl Branson – outstanding child support attachment

Joseph Adam Leonard – outstanding warrants for introduction of contraband into a penal facility and possession, resale, manufacture, deliver of a schedule II drugs

Sarah Jessica Middleton – violations of probation for fraudulent use of a credit card, joyriding, theft under $500 and violation of the financial responsibility law

Stephanie Shay Shipley – violation of probation for possession of a schedule III drugs

George Houston Brewer – possession of a schedule II and a schedule IV drugs, theft under $1,000

Benjamin Kyle Hoskins – possession of a schedule VI controlled substance

Jason Brian Widner – theft of property over $10,000

Louise Lynn Strong – theft under $1,000 (shoplifting)

Vince Edward Hopper II – violation of the financial responsibility law

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Tazewell Police Dept.

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Karen J. Seager – harboring a fugitive

Rhiannon Pearl N. White – vandalism under $500

Robert Wesley Allen Thomas – speeding 66/45, violation of the registration law

John Bailey Noah – speeding 62/45, violation of the financial responsibility law

Barbara Martin – speeding 73/45

Brandon E. Perkins – speeding 72/45

Michael Lynn Cox – speeding 71/45

William Thomas Fultz – speeding 70/40

Brittany Cook – speeding 66/45

Gary L. Mullins – speeding 66/45

Candace R. McMurray – speeding 64/45

Jacob A. Voges – speeding 64/45

Natasha Reed Yeary – speeding 63/45

Tabitha M. Brewer – speeding 62/45

Morgan E. Poore – speeding 60/45

Tammy Lynn Stewart – speeding 59/45

Aubry James Cox – violations of the traffic control device and financial responsibility laws

Britney Ann Brooks – failure to yield traffic right of way

Kendall David England – violation of probation for the sale of a schedule II drugs, failure to appear for driving on a revoked license

Kasey Lynn Morris – violation of the financial responsibility law

Michael D. Capre – violation of the financial responsibility law

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Tennessee Hwy. Patrol

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Jerad Douglas Hurst – driving under the influence, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to exercise due care, failure to report an accident, violation of the implied consent law

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Memories last a lifetime and photographs help us to remember specific milestones in our lives. The photographers who capture these highlights have a story, too — behind the camera, capturing a newborn baby’s smile, a family’s warm moment or a glamorous entrance at a high school prom.

Samantha Blondell is a local award-winning photographer who was born in Harlan and got her start when she was just 10 years old. She asked Santa Claus for a camera when she was young and when she finally got her wish, it turned into a dream that has lasted for years.

“My first one was a Polaroid and I’d set my teddy bears and my sister up in the woods and take pictures of them. Finally, my parents got tired of buying me film so I’d have to do chores around the house just so I could get film for my Polaroid camera,” said Blondell.

She knew then that taking pictures was what she wanted to do for the rest of her life.

“Well, it’s just what I love — 23 years later,” said Blondell. “My favorite picture I’ve ever taken is the one I’ll take tomorrow and that’s kind of what keeps you going in photography.”

From her first photograph with a Polaroid camera to developing her own 35 millimeter film to digital photography and a studio located next to her home in Middlesboro, Blondell is one of the most trusted photographers in the area. One of her favorite things about her job is the ability to see families grow and transition through different stages in their lives.

She has been featured in a handful of magazines and has won countless awards for her work. While many photographers prefer the bells and whistles or the latest technology, Blondell still prefers to do her work in a more traditional fashion.

“I’m not a ‘geek photographer’ and I know that they’re really into the newest or latest piece of equipment, but to me, if you’re a great photographer you should be able to do everything with a 35 millimeter that you could do with that stuff. It took me years to even go to digital,” laughed Blondell.

Some of her favorite subjects include her three sons, daughter and grandchild. In her spare time, she enjoys researching and reading about photography tips and techniques.

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

Kelsey Gerhardt|Daily News Samantha Blondell is an award-winning photographer who has roots in Harlan and Bell Counties.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Samantha-Blondell.jpgKelsey Gerhardt|Daily News Samantha Blondell is an award-winning photographer who has roots in Harlan and Bell Counties.

Judge Robert Estep dispensed with several plea agreements recently, during hearings in Claiborne County Sessions Court.

Cynthia Irene Collett, 34, charged with one count each of assault and theft under $500, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days of TDOC supervised probation with 18 days confinement. Collett was given credit for 14 days of jail time already served. She must pay court costs and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. Restitution to the Claiborne County Jail was to have been determined during a hearing on May 4. Collett is barred from the Fresh-n-Low store premises.

Thomas J. Asher, 49, charged with one count of assault, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days EHTRA supervised probation. Asher must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and is jointly and severally responsible for restitution in the amount of $500. He is ordered not to attempt to assault his victims. Asher is eligible for unsupervised probation once found fully compliant. This sentence runs concurrently with a prior violation of probation case in which he was also sentenced to ten days of confinement. He was given credit for eight days of jail time already served on that sentence.

Keith Hatfield, 52, charged with one count of assault, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with two days confinement. Hatfield was given credit for two days of jail time already served. He must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and is barred from any contact with his victim. Hatfield must remain at least 1,000 feet away from her, her residence and any location she is likely to be.

Keith Edward Noe, 44, charged with driving under the influence, was sentenced to two days confinement and ordered to pay all court costs and fines in full the day of his hearing. Noe was given credit for 16 hours of jail time already served. A gun that was seized during the incident was ordered returned to Noe upon completion of his unsuspended sentence. It was also noted that he had completed the MADD Victim Impact Panel. His driver’s license is revoked per the Department of Safety.

Bobbie M. Moyers, 35, charged with driving under the influence, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with ten days confinement. Moyers was given credit for any jail time already served. She 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 per the Department of Safety.

Roger Coffey, 45, was charged with two counts of theft under $500 and one count each of possession of a schedule II drugs, resisting arrest, driving on a suspended license and violation of the financial responsibility law. Coffey was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 100 days of confinement. He was given credit for 100 days of jail time already served. Coffey must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $225 to the Economic Crime Fund. He must pay $300 in restitution to his victim and is barred from the New Tazewell Walmart and AutoZone stores, along with his victim’s property.

Jolynne Mills, 44, charged with possession of a schedule II drugs, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with ten days confinement. Mills was given credit for ten days of jail time already served. She must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines. Mills is eligible for unsupervised probation once found fully compliant. This sentence runs concurrently with a prior one.

Amanda Faye Evans, 37, charged with theft under $1,000, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 39 days confinement. Evans was given credit for 39 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. Evans must pay $1,000 in restitution to her victim. This sentence runs concurrently with a prior violation of probation in which Evans failed to report to probation, to submit to random drug screenings, to complete an alcohol and drug assessment and for nonpayment of court costs, fines and supervision fees. The VOP also states that Evans picked up additional charges on March 12 for aggravated burglary, all while on probation.

James B. Burchfield, 51, charged with theft under $1,000, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with one day confinement. Burchfield was given credit for one day of jail time already served. He must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $145 to the Economic Crime Fund.

Robert Lee Hash III, 41, charged with theft under $1,000 (shoplifting), was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with seven days confinement. Hash was given credit for seven 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. Hash is barred from the New Tazewell Walmart store premises. This case runs concurrently with prior ones.

Leila Marie Almaraz, 53, charged with three counts of hitchhiking and one count of theft under $500, was sentenced to 11 months, 29 days ETHRA supervised probation with 21 days confinement. Almaraz was given credit for 21 days of jail time already served. She must pay at least $100 per month in court costs and fines and $150 in restitution to Shylock’s Pawn Shop. Almaraz is barred from any contact with her victim and must stay out of the pawn shop.

Lindsay N. Brooks, 29, charged with attempted theft under $500, was sentenced to six months ETHRA supervised probation. Brooks must pay at least $75 per month in court costs and fines and forfeits $75 to the Economic Crime Fund. She is barred from the New Tazewell Walmart store.

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

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It appears those residents who maintain their ‘treasures’ in full view of passersby will be able to continue doing so. The Claiborne Commission voted down the controversial Health and Safety Standards resolution, more commonly referred to as the ‘junk’ resolution, Monday evening.

The final vote came down to 19 against and two – commissioners Mike Campbell and Nicholas Epperson – for the resolution.

Longtime resident Rodney England, representing the Claiborne Chamber of Commerce, spoke in favor of the proposed piece of legislation.

“The Claiborne County Chamber of Commerce – the Industrial Board’s main function and purpose in life is to try to attract businesses, industry, jobs – people to the county. How do you attract businesses? We want to attract a Red Lobster or a Ruby Tuesday’s – can’t get one because we don’t have enough residents in the county,” said England.

The county doesn’t “qualify,” he said, because of the lack of people and the amount of ‘spending’ incomes.

“And, where (are) the sales tax dollars that come in from these businesses that are not here? More than half of the money that’s earned in Claiborne County is spent someplace else, because we don’t have these things,” said England.

Cleaning up the communities is a major way, he said, to attract the “number of bodies” necessary to interest new businesses and industry.

“(Prospective residents) get out and ride around the county, and they leave because of the junk. It’s just too many places that are trashy,” said England.

He pointed to existing restrictive subdivision covenants. He estimated nearly one-third of the county residents currently live under similar regulations spelled out in the proposed resolution.

“A lot of Claiborne County already lives under some rule that says ‘you can’t do this to your property. You can’t do this to your neighbors,’” said England.

He referred to the nosedive property values take when neighbors’ yards are ‘junked up.’

England said attracting more residents ‘equals’ more money in the county coffers to spend on projects, which equals fewer property tax hikes on the estimated 31,000 residents currently living in the county.

An audience member said it sounded to him “like a government takeover.”

“This is not a communist country. And, we should be allowed to have on our property what we have. If our neighbor (doesn’t) like it, let him call over and tell me,” he said.

County resident Joe Brooks, who said he had read the resolution in its entirety, said the first failed resolution was touted as a way to attract tourism into the county.

“Now, the (current proposed) resolution is about health and safety. Now, we’re hearing from Mr. England today that it’s not just for health and safety…but we want to get some business in here,” said Brooks.

He said the lack of new residents and businesses coming into the county has little to do with the way in which residential properties look.

People, he said, come to the county because of lower property taxes and the natural beauty of the Appalachian area in which we live.

Brooks said the resolution, as written, blends state statutes with the stricter city residential property ordinances.

Enforcement of the proposed resolution, he said, is a full-time job, requiring a salary, compensation, a vehicle, gas and insurance. The costs to the county could be as much as $50,000, he said.

Brooks said that if the resolution passes, “you just raised property taxes one cent by hiring somebody to enforce this law.”

He said he was ‘shocked’ to see the resolution brought back to the commission table, in its current draft.

“To think about George Orwell’s “1984” – I think it’s right here, on us – ‘big brother’ is already here,” said Brooks.

Adopting the resolution would hand people the legal ability to “go after” their neighbors who are “out of favor,” he said.

Commissioner William Jessie read passages from state and local laws. He reminded those present that any seizure of personal property would result in financial compensation by the county.

Jessie also pointed out that laws require that any person fined in excess of $50 has the right to a jury trial by his peers.

Just think how expensive that could become, he said.

Jessie quoted a passage from the Constitution of the United States.

“This comes from the Bill of Rights – Article four. ‘To be secure in their bodies, houses, papers and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated…or private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation,’” said Jessie.

As for subdivision regulations, referred to earlier by England, he said those residents voluntarily agree to live by the restrictions.

Commissioner Danny Longworth said he felt the resolution, as currently drafted, is incomplete and not ready for vote. He made a motion to send the draft to the Buildings and Grounds Committee to rework.

Many in the audience voiced their dislike for that motion by saying “Kill it.”

Since the motion was already on the floor, chairman David Mundy was forced to move ahead with that piece of business.

Before the vote could get underway, however, commissioner Billy Johnson requested five other amendments be attached with the original motion made by Longworth. Those proposed amendments would effectively change some of the questionable portions of the document brought to light by commissioner Jessie.

However, Johnson’s five amendments ‘died’ on the floor, due to a lack of a second to his motion.

The Longworth amendment failed, with a vote of 18 to three. Campbell, Epperson and Longworth voted in favor of that amendment.

It is unclear, at this time, whether a third version of the resolution will ever make it to the Claiborne Commission for vote.

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

Jan Runions | Claiborne Progress Rodney England, with the Claiborne Chamber of Commerce, highlights the ‘pros’ of adopting the ‘junk’ resolution.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Rodney-England-pic.jpgJan Runions | Claiborne Progress Rodney England, with the Claiborne Chamber of Commerce, highlights the ‘pros’ of adopting the ‘junk’ resolution.

For a decade now the Claiborne County Farm Bureau along with the Claiborne County Soil Conservation District have presented Farm Day to young students of Claiborne County.

This event offers students the opportunity to witness and get hands on experience with several aspects of local farming and food production. There is an emphasis on machine safety and proper methods of harvesting and turning the harvest into food. It is also a chance to see what all those farm animals provide for us on a daily basis.

This year’s guest students included fifth graders and preschoolers from all over the county. In total, around 500 students took the tour through the fair barn and stock barn and most even enjoyed a hay ride.

All this would not be possible if not for the help of many sponsors and volunteers including the Tazewell FFA Chapter, CHS students, Ag Mechanics, TN Foundation for Ag in the Classroom, Farm Bureau Board of Directors and Staff, Natural Resources Conservative Service and Claiborne County Soil Conservation District Board of Directors and Staff, Claiborne Co-Op, UT Ag Extension, 4-H Staff and Students, Forestry Department, Farm Services Agency, Home Federal Bank, Commercial Bank, Flav’O’Rich Dairy, TN Pork Producers, Sudia, Claiborne County Health Department, Tazewell Jaycees, Hickory Corner Dairy, Stone Hurst Miniatures and everyone that brought animals, served as a booth presenter or helped in any way to make this a fun and educational day for the students.

Also a huge thank you to all the teachers, aides and students that attended who make the event such a success. Soon the planning will begin for the 2018 Farm Day.

Reach Allen Earl at 423-254-5588 or on Twitter @pitchadude.

Farm Day organizers appreciate the bus drivers who drive students to and from the event.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Farm-Day-organizers-thank-the-bus-drivers-for-driving-the-students-to-and-from-the-event.jpgFarm Day organizers appreciate the bus drivers who drive students to and from the event.

The hayride is always a kid favorite.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_The-hay-ride-is-always-a-kid-favorite.jpgThe hayride is always a kid favorite.

These students tried on the protective firefighting uniforms of the Tennessee Forestry Service.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_These-students-tried-on-the-protective-fire-fighting-uniforms-of-the-TN-Forestry-Service.jpgThese students tried on the protective firefighting uniforms of the Tennessee Forestry Service.

This young future farmer feeds the goats.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_This-young-future-farmer-feeds-the-goats.jpgThis young future farmer feeds the goats.

Photos by Allen Earl | Claiborne Progress Around 500 students attended the 2017 Farm Day.

http://claiborneprogress.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/web1_Around-500-students-attended-the-2017-Farm-Day.jpgPhotos by Allen Earl | Claiborne Progress Around 500 students attended the 2017 Farm Day.