Marilyn Toppins: A Servant Leader Through and Through

Submitted by Shannon Carey on Mon, 12/04/2017 - 00:00
Marilyn Toppins

“Actions speak louder than words.”

“You’ve got to put your money where your mouth is.”

Those were just some of the values instilled in Marilyn Toppins by her mother, and they’re words she lives by to this day.

Frankly, if you’ve not seen Toppins working in Union County, you’re not paying attention. She and husband Wayne are retired now, but that’s not stopping Toppins from putting in as many volunteer hours as she can for organizations like Union County Business and Professional Association, Preservation Union County, the Union County Museum, and the Union County Heritage Festival.

“As far back as I can remember, since I was 11 or 12 years old, I’ve always been involved in something,” she said. “You’ve got to be involved in something that’s bigger than you are. That’s what citizenship in American and making people’s lives better is all about.”

Toppins joked that maybe she shouldn’t remind people that she’s “not from around here.”

“It’s going to ruin everything, because people are just now starting to think that I’m from Union County,” she said. “In the last seven or eight years or so, people are asking me, ‘You’re from Union County, right?’ And to me that was probably the greatest compliment that I’ve ever gotten.”

But all joking aside, Toppins hails from Knoxville, although she and Wayne have lived in their Mountain View Estates home in Plainview since 1972. She grew up in Norwood, attended Central High School and UT, where she and Wayne met in the computer programming department.

Toppins graduated with a major in history and minors in speech, English and secondary education. They moved to the Condon community, which would later become the town of Plainview, on April Fool’s Day. They wanted to find an affordable house with a yard and a country setting. They still live in the house today, a house built by former Union County Sheriff Earl Loy, and they raised two sons there, Jonathan and Jerry, now grown.

Soon, Toppins had a job teaching a 2nd and 3rd grade split with 33 students at Luttrell Elementary School. She stayed at Luttrell for 12 years. In her career with Union County Public Schools, she’s also been a special education teacher at the high school, an adult education teacher, middle school teacher, professional development coordinator and principal at Maynardville Elementary School. She even served as Director of Schools for a time.

She was also active in, and at one point president of, the Union County Educators Association, the teachers’ union. She said one of the great achievements of the union during her involvement was the graduated pay scale for teachers.

“Teachers in Union County never had a graduated pay scale until a group of us at UCEA sat down and wrote one,” Toppins said. “That was a real difference in Union County, and to this day it’s still going on. It made a major improvement in teachers’ lives, and it gave them something to really work for, more incentive to stay in Union County. We were losing teachers drastically, and it really did help to stop the movement. At one time, the lifetime earnings for a teacher in Union County surpassed Knox County.”

She also said she witnessed a change in “spirit” in Union County schools in the early 1990s.

“The people teaching in Union County in the early 1990s, there was a spirit that children just believed that they could take their Union County education and do whatever they wanted to with it,” she said. “Kids who never thought they would do anything more than work on a tobacco farm, and they went on to college and they have good, solid, paying jobs, and they have done really well. In that time frame, you saw the tobacco farms go away and people finding other kinds of work.”

Toppins was also active in government in the town of Plainview for many years. She signed the 1992 petition for incorporation, and she served on the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for 10 years and as chair of the town’s planning commission.

In 1998, Plainview mayor Bill von Schipmann, known to neighbors and friends as “Von,” asked Toppins if she would run for alderman.

“It was the funniest thing,” she said. “I got in my car and drove to Knoxville, and I said, ‘Lord, if you really want me to run for this office, you’ve got to send me a sign.’ On my way back, I stopped at Midway IGA, and a person from Plainview asked me if I was going to run. Then I stopped at the Pit Stop and another person asked. I got in my car and I said, ‘Lord, that’s three in one day, so I guess I’m running.’”

Toppins said she and Wayne plan to stay in Plainview as long as they can.

“To me, it’s like heaven right here. Who can ask for a better place to live? (Plainview government is) so transparent, diverse and progressive. I could go on and on. It’s people who come up with ideas, and they really want to see those ideas be implemented, and they want to pay for them themselves. Government by itself is always so slow, but in Plainview it progresses. It really moves,” she said.

But, it is perhaps her volunteer work for which Toppins is best known. She’s currently board chair of the Union County Business and Professional Association and president of the Union County Heritage Festival, an event that draws thousands of visitors to Wilson Park each year. She’s served on the board of Leadership Union County and still helps out. She also volunteers with the Union County Museum and Preservation Union County, and helps Union County 4-H as a judge for their public speaking contests.
“I love to do those things,” she said, and she speculates that her volunteerism is part of what’s behind her acceptance as a bona fide Union Countian.

“It was many years before I could put a label on what I felt I needed to do, and that was servant leadership,” she said. “As people got to know me, some of my ideas may have seemed radical at first, but we just found more common ground. If we’re going to do something, it’s going to take work, and I’m willing to work, and that’s the way I’ve always done it. I’m committed, and I’ll see it through.”

Just as Toppins plans to stay at home in Plainview as long as she can, she’s also going to keep on volunteering in retirement as long as she can. She’s even picking up some new projects, like writing for HistoricUnionCounty.com.

She invites anyone who wants to get involved in local volunteer opportunities to write her an email at mtoppins51@gmail.com.

Who knows? Maybe you’ll get bitten by the servant leadership bug, too.

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Turkey History

Submitted by Steve Roark on Thu, 11/14/2024 - 18:31
With Thanksgiving coming it is appropriate to take a closer look at the turkey, often the centerpiece of the feast. Photo by Harold Jerrel

With Thanksgiving coming it is appropriate to take a closer look at the turkey, often the centerpiece of the feast. Photo by Harold Jerrel

Our native wild turkey has been in the Americas for a very long time. Fossil records show they have been around for eons and were once distributed continuously from the middle latitudes of North America to northern South America. The Aztec Indians were the first to domesticate the bird and it became an important staple to their diet. The Navajo gave up on keeping the hungry birds away from their scanty desert corn crops, and instead began to feed the turkeys and fence them in and provided a dependable source of protein and ornamental feathers.

Culinary Arts Part 1

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Thu, 11/14/2024 - 16:22

Artistic presentation and pairing of food.
(Photo courtesy of Chef Zach Hodges)

I am familiar with the visual arts (painting, sculpture, ceramics) and the performing arts (music, dance, drama). But culinary arts? What exactly are ‘culinary arts’? Cooking? Heck, most of us can cook. Well, at least a little bit. (Popping popcorn or heating a Healthy Choice meal in the microwave do not count).

It Was A Very Good Day !

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Tue, 11/12/2024 - 17:03

Will Shepard entertains the crowd as they eat.

What a fabulous group of people gathered in Wilson Park for the 1st Annual Veterans Appreciation Family Picnic!! So many Veterans, families of Veterans, and citizens who appreciate what our Veterans mean to us showed up for comradery and good food. The BBQ was terrific and plentiful, there were more hot dogs than anyone could eat, the chicken from 33 Diner was, as always, delicious. Everyone who wanted a raffle ticket (including children!) had a chance to win one of the fantastic door prizes.

County Problems & Extensions Help

Submitted by Carol Pratt on Tue, 11/12/2024 - 10:17

In 1972, the Extension Agent wrote this in the Report. The problems that faced Union County.

Within five to ten years the Union County Extensions Office gathered information to help the County by establishing a council to assist with the Planning Commission and other Governments on Resource Development. They gathered information to resolve problems the rural community had. They counciled the leaders with their findings. The Extension even provided a Leadership School. The results were helpful in many ways by forming the Planning Commission to solve problems.

Giblets and Rice Dressing

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Tue, 11/12/2024 - 09:55
Artwork by Shirley McMurtrie

Cook rice according to directions. Drain and set aside. Cook the giblets in water for a minute or so. Drain, reserving water. Chop giblets and return to water. Simmer until tender. Saute onions in butter until yellow, but not browned. In large bowl combine onions, giblets and toasted bread. Stir until well combined.

It Is Almost Time!

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Mon, 11/11/2024 - 16:23
Pecans

The pecans are coming!! The pecans are coming! And every year they sell out!! Mammoth Pecan Halves! Chocolate Amaretto Pecans!! Double Dipped Chocolate Peanuts!!! Gourmet Chocolate Raisins!! Contact one of the Union County Lions to pre-order. Money raised from the pecan sale goes to fund eye exams and glasses for Union County residents! The nuts will be here soon!!

Tired of Chronic Pain? 3 Helpful Tips: Part I

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Mon, 11/11/2024 - 08:00

If you’re coping with back or neck pain on a regular basis, you’re not alone. According to research, one in every two Americans experience musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, which affects the bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerves. The 2024 State of MSK survey of 10,000 Americans with chronic and acute pain shows that pain is too big a problem to ignore.

Help Wanted

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Sun, 11/10/2024 - 19:05

Have you ever had somebody ask you for help, but they didn’t want the help you offered? I have been on both sides of this.

Coarse Woody Debris

Submitted by Steve Roark on Fri, 11/08/2024 - 11:01
Moss on down tree.

Moss on down tree.

A walk in the woods is often done to escape the complexities of human society that hound us all. The forest is a place of peace and supposed simplicity. But a closer look reveals an intricate complexity that is so elegantly carried out we aren’t aware it’s happening. Take that dead log lying beside your favorite trail. It’s just a tree whose time ran out and appears inactive. But what’s going on inside it is a key component in recycling nutrients to feed the trees of the forest and provide food and habitat for many wildlife species.

Food City expansion creates new job opportunities

Submitted by Joanie Brock on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:13
Ty Blakley and Scott Inklebarger

Ty Blakley and Scott Inklebarger

As Union County grows economically, opportunities for students parallel that growth. Food City, a business staple in the Maynardville community, recently expanded in size and offerings, generating many needed services and products in the county. Not only was this business expansion a benefit for the patrons it serves, new doors opened for working-age Union County students as well.

Farming in Union County

Submitted by Carol Pratt on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:13
Resting time for farm women in easy chairs at Big Ridge Park in Union County Tennessee, July 1939.

Resting time for farm women in easy chairs at Big Ridge Park in Union County, Tennessee, July 1939.

In 1955 there were 1400 farms in Union County, according to the census report that year. The total profit from farming was $1,107,595.40. The next highest income was from the sale of livestock amounting to $230,000.00. This included cattle, sheep, horses and mules.

Stimming: A closer look at behaviors in autism

Submitted by Isabella Humphery on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:12

What comes to mind when you hear the word stim? Most think of the stem of a plant or Stem (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) classes in schools. One of the words that is commonly associated with autism is stim or stimming. Stimming is clinically described as a self-stimulatory behavior and is characterized by repetitive motions, sounds and/or other behaviors.

Ramblings

Submitted by James and Ellen... on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:12

Country Connections By James and Ellen Perry
Sitting on my porch listening to “Analog” by Brennen Leigh. Brennen is a songwriter, singer and excellent guitar player. She is a breath of fresh air in country music. Brennen left Austin, Texas, for Nashville and I hope Nashville doesn’t ruin her. Brennen released a tribute album to Lefty Frizzell and it’s a great album. Brennen has lots of her songs on the internet. Here are some of her songs, “Same Dream,” “In Texas in a Band,” and “Carole With an E.” Check her out. Brennen is also a 5-ft.-10-in. beauty.

Turkey Pilaf

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:11
Artwork by Shirley McMurtrie

I often looked for the largest turkey i could afford, just so i would have leftover turkey. I don't do that any more with just Anne and me at home. Here is another recipe from my past you might like.

Mystery of the Lost Colony

Submitted by Steve Roark on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:09
There may be a clue derived from old trees as to what happened to the Lost Colony of Roanoke in 1590.

There may be a clue derived from old trees as to what happened to the Lost Colony of Roanoke in 1590.

By Steve Roark
Volunteer, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
With Thanksgiving approaching thoughts turn to the first English colonial settlement in America. If you remember your history lessons, the first attempts to colonize the New World were the Roanoke Colony in 1587 and the Jamestown Colony in 1607. The Roanoke Colony disappeared without a trace and has been the subject of much speculation ever since.

Team Jesus

Submitted by Archie Wilson on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 20:09

This past Sunday my Pastor used John 6:60 for his sermon text. That particular passage reads as follows: “Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?”

His thought was basically “Jesus had a lot of followers while everything seemed to be going well. However, once Jesus began to talk about spiritual matters, and the hardships that would soon come upon himself and his followers, many of them left and walked no more with Jesus. (John 6:66)

Use Care When Lifting

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Mon, 11/04/2024 - 11:04

It’s sometimes unavoidable that we have to lift a heavy or cumbersome object. Using some basic precautions, you can minimize the likelihood of pulling a muscle or otherwise injuring yourself in the process of lifting.

Plainview discusses ADUs, hires part time officer

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sat, 11/02/2024 - 22:25

Cameron Baker is sworn in by mayor Lynn Beeler as Plainview's part time officer for Plainview.

Plainview Planning Commission and Board of Aldermen continued discussion of auxiliary dwelling units at the regular October meeting but took no action. Jordan Rockwell, City Planner, offered two ordinances but neither received action. Rockwell will revise the suggested ordinances based on the discussion. The Board of Aldermen decided to drop the request for MTAS to develop a noise ordinance for Plainview. In a housekeeping motion, Plainview changed a resolution number that was out of sequence.

Heritage Theater hosts Youth Talent Show

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sat, 11/02/2024 - 21:23

Levi Fritts performs his own arrangement of movie melodies.

A new addition to the 20th Union County Heritage Festival was the Youth Talent Show performed at Woods Heritage Music Theater and hosted by Jim Woods. Four talented musicians entertained and displayed their knowledge of several instruments. Thirteen-year-old Levi Fritts played his own arrangement of John Williams music from a variety of movies. Williams wrote the score for Jaws, Star wars, and Jurassic Park. Levi played a medley of six scores on the keyboard.

Heritage Fest booth awards showcase a variety of crafts

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sat, 11/02/2024 - 20:40

Johnnie B. Blooms receives the Rocky Top Award for the best portrayal of the festival theme, "Remembering Grandpa".

The Union County Heritage Festival vendors displayed a multitude of crafts and ingenuity at the event last month.

The Rocky Top Award went to Johnnie B. Blooms for the depiction of the theme “Remembering Grandpa.” The flower business is located on land owned by Mary Flatford's grandfather and she displayed a timeline with pictures of her grandfather showing how the land and her grandfather had changed over time.

Commission approves option on jail property

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sat, 11/02/2024 - 19:21

Commissioner Greg Dyer explains the slope of the property on Myers Lane that may be the location of the new jail.

The Union County Commission voted to take an option with contingencies on a 12-acre property for the new jail at the October meeting.

Commissioner Sidney Jessee Jr., Jail Committee Chairman, explained the Jail Committee had narrowed the number of architects to three and were expecting to have interviews with each on November 12 at 6 p.m.

20th Heritage Festival Art Show Winners

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sat, 11/02/2024 - 10:54

Best of Show was "Bridgette." Sherri Wilson, the artist, and Mayor Jason Bailey pose beside the portrait.

The Heritage Festival Art Show provided a gallery of talent at the Historic Snodderly House on Main Street. Renowned artist Betty Bullen hosted the show with volunteers, Brenda Stone, Shirley Keaton, and Nancy Bailey. Mayor Jason Bailey had the honor of awarding the ribbons to the winners at the artist reception prior to the festival. Madeleine Grace, 14, and Carson Hayes, 12, played a variety of melodic tunes as visitors strolled through the gallery.

Aurora's artistic creativity inspires reading

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Sat, 11/02/2024 - 09:05

Aurora Harrison Bull captures reading everywhere for the Union County Book Bus.

Many years ago before Union County became a county, Lloyd Branson spawned the heritage of Union County painters, especially portrait artists.

Of course, everyone is familiar with Betty Bullen, the creative artist for Union County Heritage Festival. But Betty did not just wake up one day as an accomplished artist. She had a teacher who helped develop her talent. That teacher was Aurora Harrison Bull. Aurora has been inspiring artists and creativity for decades. Like the teacher she is, her students fuel her passion for art.

The 1st Annual Union County Veterans Appreciation Picnic

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Thu, 10/31/2024 - 10:39

The 1st Annual Union County Veterans Appreciation Picnic will get underway in Wilson Park at 11:00 on Saturday, November 9. The Veteran Volunteers (chefs for the monthly American Legion Post 212 dinners on the first Monday of every month) will be serving lunch from 11:30 until 1:00. Due to a generous donation of 18 pork butts by a Mystery Donor, there will be plenty of free food to eat. Be sure to bring an appetite to this family oriented event!! All we ask is that each person be responsible for cleaning up after themselves.

The Best in Holiday Entertainment

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Wed, 10/30/2024 - 15:03

Thanksgiving is upon us once again. It seems to come quicker and quicker each year.

Thanksgiving is observed on the fourth Thursday of November. In 2024, it will occur on November 28, the latest date possible. That means the span between Thanksgiving and Christmas days will only be twenty-seven days, the shortest span of time possible between those two holidays.

Thank you !

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:33

Wood Burning Art by Mountain Air Farm

The Veterans of Union County have been overwhelmed by the amount of community support they have received since announcing the Veterans Appreciation Family Picnic to be held on Saturday November 9! Businesses and individuals have offered to help with so much…from crewing to cooking to donating door prizes. Thank you so much, Union County. It has meant a lot to the Veterans who have been planning this event. It is going to be so much more fun because of your input and assistance.

Reed Reno celebrates 2024 4-H Swine Show season

Submitted by Abigail Thomas on Tue, 10/29/2024 - 14:13
Reed Reno at Smith County Fair

Reed Reno at the Smith County Fair

Union County’s own 10-year-old Reed Reno has excelled in the 2024 show season, achieving impressive results in the Tennessee Swine Show Circuit (TSSC) for 4-H swine exhibitions. Representing Union County across multiple divisions, Reed’s dedication and skill have set him apart in competitive categories.

All in the Family

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Mon, 10/28/2024 - 21:43

I find it interesting sometimes how I can have read something all my adult life and never have thought of an obvious question.
I was in Sunday School yesterday, as I have been hundreds of times. The unit being studied reflects on family conflict, to this point as experienced by families in the book of Genesis.

Bread Baking and Public Speaking

Submitted by Carol Pratt on Mon, 10/28/2024 - 13:07
4-H Biscuit Baking

4-H Biscuit Baking

In the 1950s, the Union County 4-H held Bread Baking and Public Speaking contests at local schools throughout the county. Members of the Union County Home Demonstration Clubs volunteered as judges. I’ve had the pleasure of judging these contests many times, often sharing a few laughs along the way.

One year, while judging a bread baking contest at a local elementary school, I recognized a McDonald’s biscuit when I saw one. Later that day, after discovering the young man's identity and mentioning it to him, he asked, “How did you know?”

Clays tourney raises record $115k for Children's Centers

Submitted by Keisha D. Vanover on Mon, 10/28/2024 - 12:35
District Attorney General Jared Effler presenting this year’s check to staff from the 8th District Children’s Centers (left – Executive Director Tracie Davis and right – CFO and COO Patty Swain).

District Attorney General Jared Effler presenting this year’s check to 8th District Children’s Centers Executive Director Tracie Davis and CFO and COO Patty Swain.

Last month District Attorney General Jared Effler and staff, in partnership with the Children’s Centers of the 8th Judicial District, hosted the Eighth Annual Dixie Roofing Clays for Children Sporting Clays Tournament at Iron Mountain Sporting Clays in Kodak, Tennessee. The purpose of the event was to raise money to support the Children’s Centers of the 8th Judicial District, comprised of Campbell, Claiborne, Fentress, Scott, and Union counties. With 138 teams and 545 individual shooters participating, this year’s event was the largest to date.

Corn and Hominy Pudding

Submitted by Shirley McMurtrie on Mon, 10/28/2024 - 12:19
Artwork by Shirley McMurtrie

Preheat oven to 325 F. Butter shallow 3 quart baking dish. Remove green portions from green onions and thinly slice. Set aside for serving. Thinly slice remaining white parts. Heat remaining 6 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium heat.

R2Factor Careboxes project lost supplies to storm, needs replacements

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Mon, 10/28/2024 - 10:29

“We must respect all those who have committed to serve, are serving, or have served, and we must remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation.” (Respect and Remember Foundation)

On the afternoon of August 26, 2021, Army SSG Ryan Christian Knauss, age 23, along with 12 other young, brave United States military warriors and at least 170 civilians were killed by a terrorist explosion and subsequent gunfire at the Kabul Hamid Karzai International Airport Abbey Gate. In his memory, his mother, Paula Knauss, formed the Respect and Remember Foundation, also known as the R2Factor.

Famous Last Words

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Sun, 10/27/2024 - 18:13

The famous last words I’m going to talk about are not from celebrities and/or notorious people. It’s words that come back to haunt us. Examples are: “I’ll never do that again!” or “I’ll get it done in a day or two. Don’t worry about it.” Recently, I heard them from my daughter Sara and I knew it wouldn’t be good.

Union Countians aid hurricane victims

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Thu, 10/24/2024 - 15:08

Supplies ready for distribution at First Baptist Church of Roan Mountain

Devastating. Heartrending. Catastrophic. Unimaginable. Life as some people have known it is destroyed and, in some cases, life is gone forever. Yet disasters happen. People lose homes, livelihoods, neighborhoods, security, family mementos. That is when friends, neighbors and, yes, even complete strangers pack up what they can and head to the disaster area. And that is exactly what so many people and organizations in Union County did. Citizens collected what was needed, gave what they could and transported supplies to where they were most needed.

Smokin' pork butts for the Veterans Appreciation Nov. 9

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Wed, 10/23/2024 - 09:46

Arnold Smallin and his big homemade smoker

OK. Maybe it doesn’t look real pretty. It is homemade and not all shiny and new like a brand-new smoker from Rural King. But looks can be deceiving! This baby can smoke—along with the smokin’ skills of Pitmaster Arnold Smallin (Army). And it’s big - it can hold as many as 10 pork butts. It does mean Arnold has to get up in the middle of the night to get the smoker fired up and the meat started in order to be ready for lunch. (Now that’s dedication!) Smoking is a very slow cooking technique. It takes patience. It takes time

Imagine

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Tue, 10/22/2024 - 21:58

Imagine a company that has been in business 146 years whose current CEO has few scruples. Imagine the company’s most trusted advisers meeting frequently with the current 29th CEO to gamble (in some instances gambling property owned by non-participating company stockholders) at the CEO’s company-provided residence.

Luttrell Elementary Honor Rolls and Attendance

Submitted by Cindy Taylor on Tue, 10/22/2024 - 15:15

Perfect Attendance
1st Grade:Kaylee Bailey, Renee Cooke, Leah Foster, Jasper Holmes, Haley Reed, Kinsley Smiddy, Dudlee Wiliams, Nylah Clark, Noylnn Coaker, Marily Gonzalez Mercado. Olivia Harrell, Karlie Brinker, Macson Yadon, Jade Ward, Kinsley Coffey Sophia Hemphill
2nd Grade: Angel Peters, Ella Tolliver, Bentley Williams, Camila Soto, Tayo Mcloud, Harley Ferguson, Adaley Burkhart, Aurora Rindom, Aiden McCarty, Joseph Jordan, Devon Keyes
3rd Grade: Gracie Corn, Kaden Bailey, Josiah Campbell

Four Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic Care: Part I

Submitted by Dr. Darrell Johnson on Mon, 10/21/2024 - 11:52

A popular misconception about chiropractic care is that it’s only for people with back pain. The fact is, chiropractic treatment has the potential to treat various physical ailments. Whether you’re an athlete who needs help with sports recovery, a professional suffering from “tech neck,” or simply dealing with aches and pains, you may benefit from chiropractic care.

FCE explores Historic Glenmore Mansion, prepares for holiday cheer

Submitted by Abigail Thomas on Mon, 10/21/2024 - 10:06
FCE Members- top to bottom- Carol Pratt, Abigail Thomas, Kaye Whaley, Carol Aldrich, Denise Cooke, Patsy Mackenzie, Sharon Hansard, Phyllis Bailey, Delilah, Trinity, Aurora Roberts, and Kara Cooke.

FCE Members, top to bottom: Carol Pratt, Abigail Thomas, Kaye Whaley, Carol Aldrich, Denise Cooke, Patsy Mackenzie, Sharon Hansard, Phyllis Bailey, Delilah, Trinity, Aurora Roberts and Kara Cooke.

The Union County Family and Community Education (FCE) group held their monthly meeting last month with a special trip to the Glenmore Mansion in Jefferson City. Known as one of the state's finest examples of Second Empire architectural style, the mansion, built in 1868, provided a fascinating historical backdrop for the gathering.

Bragging Words

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Sun, 10/20/2024 - 19:26

My mother is a “cut-up.” If somebody is verbally jostling with her, she loves to say: “Them are fighting words.” She usually gets a laugh out of that. But there are words that make her fighting mad: bragging words.

Sharps Chapel Fall Festival

Submitted by Shirlee Grabko on Fri, 10/18/2024 - 21:02

Were you there last year? If so, you sure don’t want to miss this year!! Did you miss it last year?? Don’t make that mistake again this year! Last year was fantastic. A resounding success for the first year of any festival. But THIS year’s Sharps Chapel Fall Festival has been in the planning process for a year. A whole year! And it will be bigger and it will be even better than last year.

Persimmon Picking

Submitted by Steve Roark on Wed, 10/16/2024 - 09:44
Persimmon fruit

Persimmon fruit

Persimmons are a popular food source for many wildlife species such as fox, opossum, deer, raccoons, and many types of birds. Humans find them tasty as well if gathered at the right time. If you want to try some, be sure and take along the kids or grandkids, as they benefit from a shot of nature every now and then.

Trust

Submitted by Ronnie Mincey on Tue, 10/15/2024 - 17:49

True story—A gentleman was sitting in my office a few weeks ago discussing an upcoming medical procedure. The man said his doctor told him, “We’ve performed this procedure on a dead person and it was successful.”
Had I been this man, I would have asked my doctor, “Was the person alive before the procedure was performed? Was death the desired outcome for the patient? Did the procedure somehow restore the dead to life?”

Home Federal Bank celebrates 100th Anniversary

Submitted by Staff on Tue, 10/15/2024 - 10:17
Headquarters on Market Street 2024, Home Federal Collection

Headquarters on Market Street 2024 (Home Federal Collection)

In 1924, a handful of local businessmen founded Home Federal Bank with one goal in mind: Create more homeowners. Their belief was that homeowners stabilized and improved the community. In other words—they had a stake in the future of Knoxville. For over 100 years East Tennessee and Home Federal have grown together. And while Home Federal has grown from a relatively tiny $500,000 in assets to a bank boasting almost $3.5 billion, they have never outgrown East Tennessee.

1941 Chick Program in Union County

Submitted by Carol Pratt on Tue, 10/15/2024 - 10:09

2024 Chick Chain winners: Asher Effler, Ariona Payne, Dixie Ray, Jude Firkin, Jepson Haynes, Presley Lay, Zyon Copeland, Sarah Stokely-Cook (4-H Agent) and Cooper Bowman.

In the 1941 records of Union County Extensions, the 4-H programs began to expand into local schools. The inaugural 4-H Chick Program was launched in Union County, providing 50 chicks to seventeen 4-H students, who received a loan of $9.50 to cover the cost of the chicks and feed. The first Chick Sale took place in 1955, featuring 125 pullets that averaged $1.25 each.

Events

UCCC Under the Tree Distribution December 7

Submitted by Marilyn Toppins on Tue, 08/13/2024 - 09:00

Treasurer Brooke Simpson, Chairperson Gina Gilbert, Chief Elf Carol Pratt, and a host of volunteers will be distributing toys and gifts from Under the Tree, a project of Union County Children's Charities, on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The big orange applications will be sent by the end of August to be returned before the end of September. Wish Trees will be set up on November 1 at Food City and surrounding businesses. As toys and gifts are donated, the elves will be bagging the them for the Saturday, December 7 Distribution Day.

Introduction to Disaster Relief and Specialized Classes – Knoxville (East TN)

Submitted by Shannon DeWitt on Tue, 10/08/2024 - 15:23

November 9, 2024 – Grace Baptist Church, 7171 Oak Ridge Hwy, Knoxville, TN. To pre-register for this class, contact Cassie Williamson at cassie.williamson@gracebc.org with your names and classes desired.

Please pre-register by Monday, November 4, so that we can supply you with the proper training materials and/or lunch count on Saturday.

Social media content creation workshops offered

Submitted by Shannon DeWitt on Tue, 10/15/2024 - 15:27

Direct farm marketers, value-added agriculture entrepreneurs and agritourism operators seeking to establish and grow their social media marketing efforts are encouraged to register for one of the upcoming Design to Strategy: Building Blocks for Social Media Content Creation workshop sessions.
This educational event offers an opportunity for direct farm marketers to participate in a hands-on activity utilizing computers and free content creation software to produce effective social media content for their farm businesses.

Birth of Maverick Bunch

Submitted by Brooke Cox on Thu, 10/17/2024 - 20:16

Tim and I are excited to announce the birth of our grandson: Maverick Jace Bunch. He made his appearance six weeks early on August 21 of this year, weighing in at 5 pounds and 5 ounces. He will be the eighth generation to be raised on our family farm. His parents are Jordan and Sara Bunch. Grandparents are Rodney and Kathy Bunch and Tim and Brooke Cox. Great grandparents are Dick and Gail Bradley and Sue Cox.

Norris Dam Vintage Christmas

Submitted by Holly Frerichs on Fri, 11/08/2024 - 10:55

Come to Norris Dam for a vintage evening celebrating the Christmas season! This event will feature warm drinks, live folk music, family-friendly crafts, silent auctions, a bonfire, and Santa is planning on making a visit.

This free holiday event will be Saturday, December 14th from 5:00pm to 8:30pm at the Lenoir Museum, Grist Mill, and Threshing Barn. Parking will be at and across from the Lenoir Museum, located at 2121 Norris Freeway.

Under The Tree 2024

Submitted by Carol Pratt on Thu, 11/14/2024 - 18:39
Gina Gilbert and Brook Simpson set up a Angel Tree to help underprivileged children.

It’s that time of year again for the Union County Children’s Charity (501c non profit) annual “Under The Tree” Toy Campaign. This is exclusively for Union County Children ages 0-12 years of low income.

Obituary

Oralia De Leon Briano

Oralia De Leon Briano – age 63 of Strawberry Plains, went to be with the Lord Monday, October 28, 2024 surrounded by her family. She enjoyed walking, cooking, working in her garden and walking with her dog. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ana Lopez and Arnulfo De Leon; brother, Jose Luis De Leon.

She is survived by her husband, Ruben Briano; children, Dalila Leek (Josh), Ruben Briano (Emily), Cindy Briano (Tanh); grandchildren, Alexia Leek, Jacob Cao, Catherine Davenport, Sophia Briano, Ana Lucia Cao; three sisters and six brothers, many nieces and nephews.

Steven Earl Miracle

Steven Earl Miracle-age 64 of Maynardville passed away suddenly Saturday afternoon, November 9, 2024, as the result of a motorcycle accident. He was a retired truck driver with ABF Freight Line and was a member of the Teamsters Union. He was a loving husband, son, father, brother and uncle. He loved his animals especially the squirrels and chipmunks. Preceded in death by son, Steven Miracle, Jr., father, Eugene Miracle, sisters, Angie Miracle and Paula Killion; nephew, Dustin Wilson.

Rozella Wallace

Rozella Wallace-age 75 of Luttrell passed away Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Willow Ridge Center. She was a member of the Lighthouse Church of God. She loved to sing in church, gardening and being outdoors. Preceded in death by parents, Arthur and Zettie Harless; brother, Don Harless.

Frank Floyd Thomas

Frank Thomas, 80, of Maynardville, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2024, peacefully at his home where he was lovingly cared for by his devoted granddaughter who was by his side, Millie Thomas,

A gifted photographer whose lens captured countless precious moments throughout his life, Mr. Thomas had an extraordinary ability to preserve memories for family, friends, and his community. His professional career spanned over four decades as a skilled baker, and he proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Emily Link

Emily Link

Maynardville, TN - Emily Q Link, 86, went to be with her heavenly father on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

Born January 04, 1938 in Spartanburg, SC, Ms Link the daughter of the late Clyde W. Quinn and Janie Maude Lee Quinn. She graduated from Spartanburg High School and was a member of First Baptist Church Of Maynardville.

Joseph Heck

Joseph Heck-age 60 of Maynardville passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at his home. He loved to restore classic cars, loved NASCAR and loved his family and grandkids. Preceded in death by parents, Francis and Camilla Heck; grandparents; stepson, Joseph Ellis.

Survived by wife, Carolyn Rice; son, Joseph Heck; sister, Ruthann Little; brothers, Thomas Heck, Shawn Heck, Stuart Heck; 14 grandkids; stepdaughters, Clorissa Ellis, Casey Winfield-Smith; Special fur babies.

William Carl "Bill" Gray

William Carl “Bill” Gray – age 62 of Maynardville, went home to be with his Heavenly Father 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, November 5th 2024. He was a member of Hickory Valley Baptist Church. Graduate of Horace Maynard High School class of 1980. He is preceded in death by his parents, Roy Carl Gray and June Ruth Smith Gray; sisters, Dana Smith, Judy Sexton; brothers-in-law, Steven Sexton, Bob Sexton, Tim Houston; father-in-law, Fred Hackney; nephew, Jason Houston.

Ambria Davis

Ambria Lee Davis-age 45 of Sharps Chapel went home to be with the Lord, Friday morning, November 1, 2024 at her home. She was a member of Taylor’s Grove Missionary Baptist Church and was a graduate of Karns High School, Knoxville, Class of 1998.

Survivors, mother, Vivian Ann Wright of Sharps Chapel. Four nieces, one nephew, three great-nephews. Several aunts, uncles and other relatives. Fur babies: two cats, one dog, two sheep and one donkey.

Shannon Lamb

Shannon Lamb – age 51 of Knoxville passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at U. T. Medical Center. She was of the Baptist faith. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Dollie and Guy Cooper; father, Freddie Carmen; mother, Judy Sorrells; aunts, Brenda Bowling, JoAnn Dobbins, Joyce Brewer; uncles, Nathan Cooper, Gary Cooper; brothers, Darrell Cooper, Little Gary Sorrells; sister, Judy Sisson, cousins, Benny Cooper, Judy Ann Mebine, Denita Gilliam, Dollie K Muncy, Heather Rios.

ida Bell Savage

Ida Bell Savage-age 81 of Luttrell passed away Saturday afternoon, November 2, 2024 at North Knoxville Medical Center. She was a member of First Apostolic Church, Knoxville. Preceded in death by husband, Lloyd Savage; parents, Major Lester and Edith (Davis) Jones; grandsons, Clayton Lloyd Miller and Steven Smyser; son-in-law, C. J. Miller; two sisters and three brothers.

Helen Mae Wolfenbarger

Helen Mae Wolfenbarger-age 80 of Luttrell passed away Friday morning, November 1, 2024 at her home. She was a member of Willow Springs Missionary Baptist Church, Luttrell. Preceded in death by husband, Floyd Wolfenbarger; parents, Charlie and Bertha Thomas; siblings, Ed, Bill, Earl, Georgia and Blanche.

Judy Ann Bailey

Judy A. Bailey-age 79 of Luttrell, died peacefully Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the home of her niece and caregiver, Michelle Strunk. She was a 25-year employee of Flowers by Bob. Preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Bailey; her parents, Fred and Mettie Dukes; sisters, Ilah Washam, Reba Herron, Nalda Slaughter; brothers, Ted Dukes, Roy Dukes.

Dorothy Louise Cummings

Dorothy Louise Cummings born on April 16, 1939, a resident of the Karns Community in Tennessee went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. Dorothy was raised by her grandparents, Otha Taylor Stoffel and Matilda Jane Stoffel. Dorothy worked at and retired from Robert Shaw. She was married to Lionel “Jack” Cummings for 38 years. Dorothy loved her family and was always there for them. She was a devoted Christian and grandmother to numerous grand, great grand, and great great grandchildren.

Roy Glenn Williams, Sr.

Roy Glenn Williams, Sr-age 76 of Tater Valley in Washburn passed away surrounded by his family Monday, October 28, 2024, after a long illness, we believe to be ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Roy was a lifelong member of Mount Eager Baptist Church in Hogskin. Roy was a long-time employee of Magnavox in Jefferson City where he made many lifelong friendships. He loved his job and their monthly breakfast gatherings and reunions. Roy finished his work career with the Grainger County Highway Department where he forged many more lasting friendships.

Berneice "Bea" Larmer Lee

Berneice (Bea) Larmer Lee-age 88 of Washburn passed away Friday morning, October 25, 2024 at The Willow Ridge Center, Maynardville. Bea was a member of Black Fox Primitive Baptist Church and a retired employee of Magnavox in Jefferson City. Preceded in death by husband, Delmer Gail Lee; parents, Oak and Carrie (Nicley) Larmer.

Survivors include many cousins with a host of friends and other relatives.

Angela Newman

Angela Dawn Newman - age 59 of Luttrell, passed away October 12, 2024. She loved spending time with family and friends, but most of all she enjoyed any time spent with her grandkids. Angela enjoyed being out at the lake fishing and spending time with her dog, Beauty. She will be greatly missed by many.

Larry Eugene Miller

Larry Eugene Miller, age 67 of Halls, TN, passed away Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at Sacred Ground Hospice House after fighting a battle with cancer. He was born July 2, 1957 in Knoxville, TN to Ralph Miller and Mary Carmichael. He was a Halls High school graduate class of 1975. He worked most of his life, in jobs ranging from Mynatt Brothers to Cooks and Pioneer Pest Control.

He is proceeded in death by his parents; Ralph Miller and Mary Carmichael, and Caitlynn Carmichael.

Melissa Michelle Schubert

Melissa Michelle Schubert-age 54 of Knoxville passed away Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at U. T. Medical Center unexpectedly after she lost her battle with cancer. She loved the Lord and had accepted Jesus as her savior. She was a very hard worker and loved being creative. She enjoyed painting, drawing and decorating. She was a free spirit and loved her children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She has been rejoined with her son, Michael Conatser who passed away in 2022 and her baby brother, Michael.

Sandra Ann Muncey

Sandra Ann (Brown) Muncey-age 62 of Maynardville passed away Tuesday evening, October 15, 2024 at Willow Ridge. Preceded in death by her mother, Juanita (Asbury) Brown; father, Wayne Brown; brother, Tony Brown; sister, Mary Brown.

She is survived by her daughters, Cassandra Muncey of Mississippi, Jessica Nicley of Maynardville, Bridget Muncey of Maynardville; grandchildren, Christian Fox of Mississippi, Emily Erwin and Ashley Erwin of Chattanooga; brother, Donnie Brown of Maynardville and several nieces, nephews and a host of other family members and many friends.

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