In the years immediately following World War II, America was ready for something new. The country was booming, families were growing, and drivers wanted modern cars that reflected a new era of optimism and progress. In 1949, Ford Motor Company delivered exactly that with the introduction of the all-new Ford—now famously known as the “Shoebox Ford.” Produced from 1949 through 1951, the Shoebox Ford earned its nickname from its clean, slab-sided styling and squared-off roofline that resembled a shoebox.

The Union County Farmers Market is gearing up for another exciting and successful season. All current, new and interested vendors and volunteers are invited to the 2026 organizational meeting on Saturday, March 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the farmers market at 115 Durham Dr, Maynardville.

The Flintstones and The Jetsons were two of my favorite cartoons when I was a girl. What is so weird is how I eventually felt like I belonged in each one.

The term “chiropractic” combines the greek words cheir (hand) and praxis (practice) to describe a treatment done by hand. Hands-on therapy — especially adjustment of the spine — is central to chiropractic care. Chiropractic is based on the premise that the relationship between the body’s structure (primarily that of the spine) and its function (as coordinated by the nervous system) affects health.

On February 14, Marsha Reep of the North Knoxville Quilts of Valor Foundation attended the Veterans’ monthly breakfast and presented Commander Darrell White (U.S. Air Force) and Adjutant Norman Gillen (U.S. Navy) of the American Legion Post 212 with Quilts of Valor. We are a grateful nation and appreciate and thank both men for their service, dedication, and sacrifice in protecting our freedoms.

The American Legion New Liberty Post 212's monthly free breakfast for all Veterans, their family, friends, and supporters was again well attended on Valentine's Day. The Veterans were very grateful to the City of Luttrell for sponsoring this event. Luttrell Mayor Jerry Lawson briefly reviewed some of the challenges the town of Luttrell has faced and overcome, noting that Luttrell's population is about half that of Maynardville. There was some good-natured kidding about stopping at the sign that says Luttrell City Hall and being handed a menu.

The gym was full of energy during the UCHS vs. Gibbs High game on January 9. Dressed head to toe in red, the student section packed the bleachers and brought the school spirit. A few students dressed as ESPN reporters, adding to the fun and excitement in the student section.

The Lady Patriots earned an impressive win, displaying their strong teamwork and determination throughout the game. They came out strong and secured a big win that set the tone for the night.

Stochia Brantley’s fall 2025 Certified Nursing Assistant class finished off their course by taking the final exam. This exam consisted of a 100-question written exam followed by a skills portion monitored by a state proctor.

Prior to their CNA test, students spent clinical hours alongside partner Willow Ridge Nursing Home. They gained a lot of experience through shadowing but also had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience.

By Natayla Anderson

Union County has never had a large population. Many farms and backcountry roads cause students to travel outside of the community to seek higher education, and this can put a financial burden on the citizens.

Union County Veterans have an opportunity to gather casually to connect with fellow Veterans in our community on the 3rd Thursday of each month. The next informal Meet and Greet will be at the American Legion Post 212 on Thursday, February 19, from 3:00 to 7:00. Stop by and say hello to old friends and make new ones! For more information, email Norman Gillen at Adjutant@altnpost212.org