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Articles by Bill Thomas
We turned 80-year-olds into trained health monitors to save lives and boost senior dignity
Dr, Bill Thomas (Photo courtesy of Lifespark; Treatment by McKnight’s Senior Living) She was 95 years old and walking with purpose down the hallway. That was usually a good sign. Then an 82-year-old neighbor greeted her and asked where she was going. “To see my daughter,” she replied. “Hmm,” the neighbor said, “doesn’t your daughter live in Oklahoma — 800 miles away?” In fact, she did.
Die Abenteuer von Maid Marian
Britannien, im 12. Jahrhundert: Als der König bei den Kreuzzügen den Heldentod stirbt, kehrt auch Robin Hood (Dominic Andersen) wieder in seine Heimat zurück. Dort hat Lady Marian (Sophie Craig) drei Jahre unter falschem Namen in einem Kloster gelebt und die Rückkehr ihres geliebten Mannes bereits sehnsüchtig erwartet.
Health inequities: How socioeconomic factors affect outcomes for pediatric cancer patients
Organizations like the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation have made it their mission to help accelerate scientific breakthroughs in hopes of someday reducing the number of children who die from cancer to zero. There are many challenges that need to be overcome before that can be a truly achievable goal, however, and that not all of those challenges are universal.
Eureka! Space II
Awesome tent! Pros We have camped in our Space II tent for 36 years! 30-40 nights at least every year. With occasional seam sealant and waterproofing it is still in great shape! Cons I did have to replace the door zippers after about 20 years. Not bad! We camped with two kids and their friends (6 people total) and a dog and had plenty room! LOVE this tent. You take care of it and it has served us well.
Bill Thomas, Bears basketball legend passes away
When it comes to delivering “bad news” in sports, generally, it’s a local team losing or a coach getting fired. But Sunday it comes in a more melancholy form – saying goodbye to a Missouri State legend. Bill Thomas, the man who molded the landscape of Bears basketball for nearly three decades as a player, assistant, and head coach passed away Saturday. As a 3-year starter, Thomas helped the maroon and white win back-to-back NAIA National Championships in 1952 and '53.
Hornets' Parker Named League’s Best
Alameda High School (AHS) running back/defensive back A’Jhuan Parker was named the West Alameda County Conference (WACC) Shoreline Division Offensive Player of the Year. Parker, a junior, rushed for 1,065 yards and scored 13 touchdowns in the 2022 season. He was also named the Shoreline League first team as a running back and defensive back. Several of Parker’s Hornet teammates also were selected to the Shoreline League first team.
Homeschool group hosts first-ever Pinewood Derby
Derby cars being placed on the starting line Saturday afternoon for the MBC (Mountain Bible Church) Homeschool Collective first-ever Pinewood Derby.Photo by Tamas Mondovics By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer “The race is on!” Those words were heard amid the din of happy children laughing and waving checkered race flags as they excitedly cheered on their friends. The excitement was high last Saturday at Mountain Bible Church, located at 1923 Hwy.
City dedicates G.B. Grayson Music Pathways Marker
Playing his fiddle, Kenny Price, center, joins Kody Norris and his band during an unveiling ceremony of a new “Tennessee Music Pathways” marker in downtown Mountain City honoring music legend G.B. Grayson. The marker is the second for the small town highlighting its rich musical heritage.
City faces costly upgrade
By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer The phrase an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of the cure is commonly heard when a person is interested in preventing future issues from arising. That expression applies to what was addressed at the recent City Council meeting. The importance of planning ahead for the replacement of city water meters took priority during the meeting.
Care and compassion thrive in Johnson County
Johnson County Cancer Support Group Administrator Flo Bellamy, with a volunteer, collect donations at one of the organization’s recent traffic-stop fundraiser. Photo by Tamas Mondovics By Tamas Mondovics Editor As national cancer awareness month, October wears many hats. October 8 was World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, focusing on several advance plans and care. October 13 was Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
Early mistakes cost Longhorns
Sports Writer Ok, so the first quarter was not the football game dreams are made of, but the Longhorns persevered in a battle against Cloudland before it was all said and done. Unfortunately, many players' endeavors, including the Longhorns' hot-arm quarterback, Connor Simcox, did not garner much success in the first half of the game.
Festival celebrates three decades of success
Parade participants and spectators enjoy a perfect fall day during the 30th Annual Shady Valley Cranberry Festival last Saturday. The event drew a sizable crowd and lived up to its three-decade-long reputation of fun for all. Online photo.
New skatepark project at Ralph Stout gets green light
By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer At its regularly scheduled monthly meeting, the Mountain City Council approved moving forward with the plans for a new skate park. The park will replace the current skating track located at Ralph Stout Park. According to Mountain City Mayor Jerry Jordan, a geotechnical report was completed by engineers, and the results were submitted to City Council. The report explained that the Ralph Stout Park site could be developed into a new skate park.
Plein Air Art produces talented winners - The Tomahawk
Cristy Dunn with her Community Show entry, Laurel Creek and Temple Reece with her Cultural Heritage winning painting.Submitted photos By Elizabeth A. King Freelance Writer Johnson County Center for the Arts created the opportunity to introduce a form of art not often practiced in the area. Through a workshop, the event showcases local and surrounding county artists’ talents in the form of Plein Air.
Fourth-quarter fumble costly for Horns
JC’s James Potter (3) breaks up a South Greene pass play during the Longhorns 15 -21 loss to the RebelsPhoto by Tameula Trivett By Beth Cox Sports Writer Friday night’s game was a heartbreaking 15-21 loss for the Longhorns. The boys were in the lead throughout the night, but a fumble at the 2:41-minute mark was picked up by South Greene’s Cody Rambo for a 27-yard touchdown ending the Longhorns’ anticipated victory.
Mary Alifair Hatfield Young
Mary Alifair Hatfield Young of Mountain City, TN, a beautiful soul called home to be with Jesus, passed to her new life on Friday, October 14, 2022, at her home on Sprucy Ridge. Fari, as she was known to her family, or Sissy, which is the name she liked best, born on November 17, 1954, was the youngest daughter, seventh child, of the late Raynie and Myrtle (Starr) Hatfield of Ransom, KY.
Child missing in Johnson County
Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to right sidebar Skip to footer PRESS RELEASE: The Johnson County Sheriff’s Officer is requesting the public’s help in locating a child. According to the information at this point, the child was taken from the residence in Johnson County by a non-custodial parent. The child is described as an 11-month-old female, with blonde hair and blue eyes. It is believed that the child could be traveling in a silver 2006 Toyota 4X4. Tennessee registration 946BBCQ.
Robert Golden Osborne
Robert Golden Osborne, age 81, of Zionville, passed away on Friday afternoon, September 30, 2022, in Mountain City, TN. He was a native of Ashe County, NC, and was born on June 8, 1941, in Creston. He was preceded in death by his parents, Golden and Emmer Mahala Osborne; three brothers, JR Osborne, John Fate Osborne, and William Tracy Osborne; four sisters, Cressie Osborne Blevins, infant Mona Lee Osborne, Shirley Jean South, and Wilma Dare Dunn.
Kim Shelton Main
We are saddened to announce the passing of We are saddened to announce the passing of Kim Shelton Main, age 52, on Sunday, September 25, 2022 in Amorem Hospice, Hudson, NC after an extended illness. She was born August 16, 1970 to the late John Shelton and Shirley Ashley Shelton. Kim enjoyed collecting Precious Moments figurines, antiques and knives. She also loved flowers and gospel music.
Great Homecoming night memories, but a tough loss for the Longhorns
By Beth Cox Sports writer It was a big night at Paul McEwen Stadium last Tuesday for Johnson County Middle School. The football team was eager to face off with the mighty Warriors of Happy Valley, but it was also the most memorable Homecoming Night for some sweet people. During halftime, the field was adorned with several beautiful couples eagerly awaiting the Homecoming results. Top crowning honors of the night went to Rissa Stevans, daughter of Rachel Stevans and Ray Stevans of Mountain City.
G.B.Grayson honored with Tennessee Pathway Music Marker
Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to right sidebar Skip to footer By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer On Wednesday, October 19, 2022, music legend G.B. Grayson will be honored with a Tennessee Music Pathway Marker. The unveiling begins at 1 pm downtown Mountain City on Church Street and Main Street. Tennessee has been known as the soundtrack state since so many styles, and sounds have come from here, including blues, country, rock and roll, bluegrass, gospel, and rockabilly.
Airport plans for future expansion
By Elizabeth A. King Freelance Writer For years, Johnson County Airport Manager, David “Dave” Garris, has been working diligently to create an equitable, safe, well-thought-out, and profitable solution for the facility under his watchful eyes and daily care.
Amateur Radio Operators receive much-deserved recognition
By Elizabeth A. King Freelance Writer It wasn’t just any day for Karen Weaver and the Johnson County Amateur Radio operators as they gathered at their Headquarters on Berry Branch Road to dine and share stories of how the members became acquainted with HAM radio and what it meant to them. The event hosted special guests, including Senator Rusty Crowe, Supervisory Special Agent/Security Manager Julia McKee, Special Agent Shane Ratliff, Mayor Larry Potter, and Sheriff Edward “Eddie” Tester.
Longhorns on a winning streak
By Beth Cox Sports Writer The Longhorns gave fans a game to remember last Friday night at Paul McEwen Stadium. It was a big night for the entire team, but Connor Simcox had another amazing night, along with a very effective offensive line. The game started in favor of Happy Valley when a bad snap by Johnson County gave the Warriors a 41-yard touchdown. The Longhorns fired back quickly with a 73-yard touchdown pass by quarterback Connor Simcox to freshman Juan Mejia.
Brenda Sue Riffle
Brenda Sue Riffle, 61, of Damascus, VA, passed away on Monday, October 3, 2022. She was born January 19, 1961, to the late Raymond A. Riffle and Rebecca L.Trent Riffle. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandson.
Linda Bass Street
Linda Bass Street, age 69, of Hampton, passed away on October 4, 2022, at Sycamore Shoals Hospital in Elizabethton. Linda was born in Carter County on April 13, 1953, to the late Ham and Lona Campbell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Herb Bass; brother, Bobby Campbell his wife, Reba; and sister, Pat Hicks. Most people remember Linda from her and Herb’s business in Mountain City and also the flea market in Elizabethton.
Minnie Helton - The Tomahawk
Minnie Helton, 81, went to her heavenly home following a fight with metastatic breast cancer. She passed away at Johnson City Medical Center on Monday, October 3, 2022. Minnie remained true to her fighting spirit until the end of her earthly life, exhibiting both grit and grace. Minnie was a native of Saltville, VA. She resided in Mountain City, TN, during the latter part of her life.
2011 GMC Denali 2500
One owner. 180k miles, Diesel deleted, 4X4, B&W turnover ball gooseneck, S&B air filter, Only 3k miles on Cooper tires, new front brake rotors and pads, very clean and well taken care of.
Authorities searching for Mountain City woman charged in stabbing
Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to right sidebar Skip to footer PRESS RELEASE: Johnson County deputies are searching for a woman that has been charged after a Tuesday morning stabbing. In. release on October 11, 2022, authorities say that at approximately 6:46 am, officers with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 186 Jimbo Lane to a domestic dispute.
Longhorns defeat Happy Valley 48-39
Staff report It was another big night for the Johnson County Longhorns after a 48-39 win against Happy Valley Friday, in Mountain City. The home game was led by Connor Simcox with 291 yards passing, 22 attempts with 15 completions and 5 touchdown passes. The game, however, was not a one man show. Nate King had two interceptions, one with a 87 yard pick 6 that secured a victory for the Longhorns. Go Longhorns!!!
New Salon celebrates grand opening
Makayla Houghton, the center owner of Daydream Salon, cuts the ribbon on her new shop during a ceremony last Saturday in Mountain City. The new salon is a great addition to the business community and gives testimony to the ongoing growth in the city and Johnson County, TN. Submitted Photo By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer Saturday, October 1, was a special day for one young business owner, Makayla Houghton, as she celebrated the grand opening of Daydream Salon with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Laurel Creek deemed clean and healthy, recent survey concludes
Volunteers representing several agencies walk a portion of Laurel Creek as they survey the cleanliness and health of the stream and its fish last Wednesday afternoon. While the project takes a lot of people to complete, there was no shortage of willing participants on hand. By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer Volunteers carrying backpacks descended on Laurel Creek near the Laurel Creek Trailhead to collect fish samples for the wild trout monitoring program.
Preparing Johnson County
Johnson County Sheriff Eddie Tester, Emergency Operations Manager Mark Sumner, and Emergency Management Director Jason Blevins reveiw a map of Johnson County. Photo by Elizabeth A. King By Elizabeth A. King Freelance Writer As hurricane Ian approached Florida, its path headed toward the Carolina’s and Eastern Tennessee, it became obvious that the question was, does Johnson County have an emergency preparedness plan?
Big Conference win for the Longhorns
Longhorns celebrate their first win of the season Friday night, beating Claiborne County in the last minute 22 – 21.Photos by Joey Icenhour By Beth Cox Sports Writer Things got off to a slow start for the Longhorns last Friday night after they traveled to Claiborne County. The first quarter was about the Bulldogs, who got the lead early with only 8:20 on the clock. The first half of the game definitely went to the Bulldogs.
Tenn. National Guard assists in Hurricane Ian’s aftermath
By Tamas Mondovics Editor As Hurricane Ian inched ever closer to its target of the EWst Coast of Florida, roughly 1,200 Soldiers and Airmen from the Tennessee National Guard were getting ready to depart from multiple locations across Tennessee to support response and recovery efforts.
Betty Murphy - The Tomahawk
Betty Murphy, age 84, of Butler, Tennessee, passed away on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at the Sycamore Shoals Hospital. She was born on June 8, 1938 to the late Clyde and Mary Jane Taylor. In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her daughter, Debbie Forrester and brother, Jack Taylor. Betty and her husband Bill owned and operated Lakeview Family Campground for many years and made lifelong friends and memories that will not soon be forgotten.
Dr. Don Garrett, Jr. Ed.D
Dr. Don Garrett, Jr. Ed.D, went home to Glory Thursday evening Sept 29, 2022 at the Mountain City Care Center. He was born to the late Donald M. Garrett, Sr. and his biological mother, the late Mary Evelyn Cullop Matthews, on August 31, 1968 in Marion, VA. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Graham and Ruth Greer Garrett; uncles, Rex, Jack, Wayne and J.R. Garrett; and aunts, Patricia McConnell and Molly Garrett; and his bonus father-in-law, Bill Icenhour.
Carroll Dean Jenkins
Carroll Dean Jenkins, 84, passed away at the Bristol Regional Hospital on September 27, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Nelle (Neely) Jenkins; sister, Dorothy Scott, and brother-in-law, Charles Scott.
Robin Marie Swinson
MOUNTAIN CITY – Robin Marie Swinson, 60, went to her Heavenly Home on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. Robin was a lifelong resident of Carter and Johnson county. She a member of Elk Mills Christian Church. Robin had a witty and loving sense of humor who loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren. They were the light of her life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Vesta Bowman; two husbands, John Whaley and Robert Swinson.
Paul Wilbur Potter
Mr. Paul Wilbur Potter, 80, passed away on Sunday, September 18, 2022, at Spring Arbor of Greensboro. A native of West Chester, PA., Paul was born on September 9, 1942, the son of the late Paul Leroy Potter and Esther Woodards Potter. He worked in mirror production for nearly 50 years and owned and operated his own company for 21 of those years. He thoroughly enjoyed his work and his employees. While very successful in his career, his family was his #1 priority and treasure on earth.
Frederick “Glynn” Payne
Frederick “Glynn” Payne, 94, of Newark, DE, went to be with his Lord on September 18, 2022. He was born in 1927 on Forge Creek, Mountain City, TN to the late Roy Clyde Payne and Hettie Loretta Curd Payne. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Willie “Earl” Payne and sister, Opal “Irene” Payne Richardson.
Cancer Support Group prepares for its annual bucket drive
Johnson County Cancer Support Group Submission In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month, the Johnson County Cancer Support Group will be holding its annual bucket drive on October 7-8 from 9 am to 5 pm. A 501(c)3 non-profit under the wing of Hometown Service Coalition, the Johnson County Cancer Support Group has served local cancer patients for almost three decades.
Big John’s Closeouts is builder friendly
April Danner, left and Megan Mangum are all smiles behind the counter as they are helping customers at Big John’s Closeouts in Mountain City, TN. The store has been a community staple and is proud of its friendly atmosphere and diligent customer care. Photo by Tamas Mondovics By Jinifer Rae Freelance Writer Big John’s Closeouts is a familiar store to many in the Mountain City area.
James Russell Walsh, Sr.
James Russell Walsh, Sr., age 86, passed away on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at Mountain City Care Center. James was born November 20, 1935, to the late Carl and Ollie Walsh. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Laverne Walsh, on January 5, 2022; sisters, Louise Eller, Georgie Shumate, Virgie Stout, and Loneita Owens; brothers, Frank Walsh and Richard Walsh. James was a devoted father, husband, and good Christian man who loved serving his Lord.
Robert Fritts - The Tomahawk
We are saddened to announce the passing of Robert Fritts, age 79, on Sunday, September 18, 2022, in Johnson City Medical Center. He was born June 24, 1943, to the late R. D. Fritts and Rosa Campbell Fritts. Robert loved building birdhouses. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Roy Fritts.
Darlena Lois Malecki
Darlena Lois Malecki passed away on August 24, 2022. She was born February 16, 1932 to the late Clint Rex Gregg and Dessie Gregg. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Malecki, and brothers, Colonel Noel Delmas Gregg and Thurston B. Gregg. Darlena loved the Lord and was a Christian all her life. She attended Sugar Grove Baptist Church when she lived in Tennessee and that is where she was saved as a young girl.
Dr. Donald R. Walters
Dr. Donald R. Walters, age 81, passed away on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, TN. Dr. Walters was born on January 15, 1941, in Cattlesburg, Kentucky, to the late John and Barbara Walters. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, John Wray Walters, Billy Walters, and his son, Donnie Walters.
Gladys "Maw" Rupard - The Tomahawk
Gladys “Maw” Rupard, 89, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2022, at Franklin Woods Hospital. She was surrounded by her family. She is preceded in death by her husband Luther Rupard, Her mother and father, Clyde and Sallie Trivette, and her sisters Irene Taylor, Margie Taylor, and Wilma Walsh. Her brothers, Ted and Glenn Trivette.
New County Attorney happy to be back home
By Elizabeth A. King Freelance Writer Borne in Boone and raised in Doe, newly appointed Johnson County Attorney Ryan Carroll has returned home to serve his community. Carroll graduated from JCHS and, in Fall 2015, went on to ETSU to obtain a degree in History. Carroll graduated in May 2018. At twenty-five years old, Carroll practices law at Grayson Wright & McEwen at 410 W.
Proposed Doe Mountain Gun Range project gets public hearing
By Elizabeth A. King Freelance Writer Local officials and residents gathered last week to get more information regarding a proposed gun range on Doe Mountain, Just west of Mountain City, TN. The meeting held on Tuesday, September 20, at the courthouse focused on the “proposed” facility but emphasized that nothing is set in stone. “They are still in the planning stages,” said Shawn Lindsay, Executive Director for Doe Mountain. So, for now, TWRA has yet to award the grant money for this project.
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