Press Release

CRIMINAL COURT JURY PROCEEDINGS SUSPENDED THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2021, NON-JURY PROCEEDINGS TO BE CONDUCTED VIRTUALLY

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Tennessee Supreme Court and the Criminal Court for the Eighth Judicial District have altered the schedule for the Eighth Judicial District Criminal Court through January 31, 2021.

Jury Proceedings: There will be no jury proceedings, trial or grand jury, through January 31, 2021. New dates for jury proceedings will be established when in-person meetings are allowed to resume.

Arts, Culture, and Humanities - Union County Arts Council

The Union County Arts Council (UCAC) was originally birthed within the Chamber of Commerce, started by Julie Graham and Cindy Taylor with the first Art in the Park event held at Paulette Elementary School soon after its construction. Today’s board consists of President Carol Pratt, local artist Betty Bullen, Randy Turner, Eric and Gloria Holcomb, and Susan Boone. The council operates as a 501c3 organization and has successfully applied for and received grants for Arts, Culture, and Humanities.

The Christmas Star

One part of the Christmas story that has intrigued scientists for centuries is the mysterious star in the east that the wise men or "Magi" followed, seeking a newborn king to worship. Matthew does not go into detail concerning the star but describes it as a miraculous occurrence.

Squishy Gift

If you read my article, “Squishy Toes,” then you have an idea where I am going with this. If not, you will soon find out.

I miss the family Christmas get-togethers we used to have when I was a girl. They were so much fun and everybody seemed to be so happy. During this time, my Mamaw Jo and a male cousin started a tradition of exchanging gag gifts. Each year, one tried to out-best the other.

Unfortunately, I don’t remember all of the gag gifts, but there was one that I’ll never forget. It was funny and disgusting at the same time.

Clear the Room, Boys!

I met with Lisa Carter, the fine principal of Maynardville Elementary School, last week. She was on the phone when I arrived, so I had a few moments of leisure to look around her office. On the wall directly across from me was a saying—“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Oatmeal Coconut Cookies

Coconut is one of my favorite flavors. This is one of my current favorite cookies. There are other favorites, but this is the one I go to now. I try to use a cookie batter that doesn't have to be rolled out. Just drop from a spoon or roll into small balls, like this recipe.

Preserving our natural and historic sites: Preservation Union County

I recently spoke to Preservation Union County board member Betty Bullen to learn more about the nonprofit organization and what it does for Union County.
Preservation Union County currently operates under the Knox Heritage umbrella, Knox Heritage having received a grant from National Historic Preservation to do outreach work with the 16 surrounding counties and creating the East Tennessee Preservation Alliance.