Jinifer Rae
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Articles by Jinifer Rae
Stay safe while traveling this winter
As the temperature plummeted across Johnson County last week officials report seeing an upswing in weather related emergencies. kAm“%9:D 6IEC6>6 4@=5 :D 52?86C@FD[” D2:5 z6G:? r@=D@? y@9?D@? r@F?EJ’D s:C64E@C @7 h`` t>6C86?4J]k^Am kAmx? 2? 677@CE E@ C2:D6 2H2C6?6DD 2?5 <66A C6D:56?ED D276 5FC:?8 E9:D H:?E6C’D 49:==[ @77:4:2=D 92G6 @776C65 D@>6 C64@>>6?52E:@?D]k^Am kAm%96 6IAC6DD:@? 2? @F?46 @7 AC6G6?E:@? :D H@CE9 2 A@F?5 @7 4FC6 42?
Stay safe while traveling this winter
As the temperature plummeted across Johnson County last week officials report seeing an upswing in weather related emergencies. “This extreme cold is dangerous,” said Kevin Colson Johnson County’s Director of 911 Emergency. In an effort to raise awareness and keep residents safe during this winter’s chill, officials have offered some recommendations. The expression an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure can readily be applied to winter storm survival while traveling.
Johnson County EMS spaghetti dinner raises $11,600
In the heels of the worse disaster the region has seen in history, the community continues to show its generosity to those who are its own. The most recent example of what Johnson County is as a community was the large turnout of support for Keith Mullen. Mullen is a beloved member of Johnson County and has served the community for decades in several ways. As a local barber many have fond memories of sitting in his chair for their first haircut.
Two years later, the water woes saga continues
In addition to facing the ever-growing financial challenges stemming from Hurricane Helene, another monetary hit is looming for the Town of Mountain City. The January city council meeting felt like a blast from the past as members once again discussed the issues related to caring for an aging water system. During the recent city council meeting, Superintendent Collection and Distribution Chris Hook approached the board to consider once again addressing the aging water meters.
Johnson County Ghost Riders MC gives back to the community
One hundred Johnson County children’s Christmas was made brighter thanks to the efforts of members of the Johnson County Ghost Riders MC. The local motorcycle club collected over $11,000 in funds to fill the Christmas wish lists for those who could not have had a traditional holiday otherwise. “It is all about the kids,” said Tony “Felcro” Felty, member.
Johnson County Schools face the challenge of missed days
Snow days impacting Johnson County Schools’ students after Helene has posed a challenge for the 2024-2025 school year. Interestingly, the Johnson County school theme chosen for this year was “Rise to the Challenge,” and how appropriate that has turned out to be. When Hurricane Helene blasted through Johnson County, students missed twenty-three instructional days due to the disaster. Thanks to a cold weather storm system named Blair, even more time has been missed for snow days.
Seed library coming to Mountain City
Seed libraries are popping up nationwide as communities look for ways to provide healthier, more cost-efficient ways to feed their families. Johnson County residents will now have the opportunity to support the effort thanks to a new seed library, which is currently in the process of being implemented at the Johnson County Library.
New Johnson County Youth Volleyball Program seeking participants
The Johnson County Youth Volleyball Program has been increasing in attendance over the last few weeks, prompting coaches to seek more support from the community. “We are extremely excited to finally get this program up and running,” said Coach Sarah Jennings. “All 4-6th grade girls who are residents of Johnson County are welcome to play.” The Johnson County Youth Volleyball Program will be similar to other youth league sports programs in the county.
Town of Mountain City continues to lose revenue from Helene
With a 4-1 vote (one pass), the Mountain City Council has approved increasing city water and sewer rates during its January 2025 council meeting. The Town of Mountain City is still reeling from the loss of revenue due to Hurricane Helene. In addition to the storm costing an estimated 1.9 million dollars in damages and expenses, including the town and water department, the town has lost income related to aftereffects that seem to keep coming.
Keep fine free don't burn debris
The recent destruction by Helene left a path of debris across six states, and across the Town of Mountain City. Area residents have been busy cleaning up. Many have spent countless hours busy cutting and removing fallen limbs and trees of all sizes. Fire can be perhaps one of the easiest ways to clear unwanted vegetation debris but if not used properly can have dangerous consequences, including a recent fire started by a homeowner on Friday morning on North Shady Street in Mountain City .
$1.6M meat processing facility construction to begin early spring
The proposed meat processing facility is one step closer to becoming a reality thanks to the recent votes from the Johnson County Commissioners and Johnson County School Board. Johnson County Mayor Larry Potter confirmed that during its last meeting, the Johnson County Commission voted to accept a $1.6 million bid from Construction Partners LLC. Construction of the new facility will be located on Pedro Shoun Rd., on county property, and is slated to begin in early 2025.
LIHEAP RV coming to Mountain City to help with heating costs
When the temperature drops and it’s cold outside, residents of Johnson County find ways to keep warm. Fortunately, help is on the way, thanks to a program designed to lend a helping hand. On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Outreach RV will be in Mountain City, offering assistance to help pay for home energy bills to qualifying individuals.
JCHS Robotics overcomes challenges
The Johnson County High School Robotics Club teams 63303A and 63303D, headed to Dayton, TN last weekend to compete in the Bryan College Tournament. The annual competition is a much-anticipated event providing students the chance to show off their skills and compete for scholarships. Although the number of participants can vary from tournament to tournament, twenty-five teams were on hand raising the ante, and making this competition one to remember.
Shopping local, a lifeline to area businesses
Black Friday sales and the annual Small Business Saturday maybe last week’s memory. But the holiday season is a time of year when shopping takes center stage, and many Johnson Countians are using the opportunity to continue their support of local businesses. Residents are encouraged to keep the momentum going throughout the year.
Annual Christmas Craft Show draws large crowd
For over thirty years, the Christmas Craft Show sponsored by the Johnson County Arts Council has become a tradition, providing an opportunity for folks to get an early start on holiday shopping. When the show was relocated to Johnson County High School last year, a record number of vendors and a large crowd attended. However, the recent storm caused much devastation around the county and almost put a halt to the beloved event.
Mountain City Mayor faces challenges head-on
The aging of the Town of Mountain City has caused its fair share of concerns for city council over the last few years. Crumbling infrastructure, outdated equipment, financial woes, and how to care for necessary upgrades and repairs have been the subject of many city council discussions. After Hurricane Helene devastated much of the city, hitting the town’s sewer plant hard the burden of cleanup and recovery only added to the woes.
Litter Chicks remove three tons of trash from Watauga Lake
Since Hurricane Helene at the end of September, cleaning up debris and trash has become a daily norm across Johnson County. The daunting work following the devastation in the region, however, does not mean neglecting the areas that routinely need attention under normal circumstances. One such area is the much-loved Watauga Lake. Many visitors consider Watauga Lake in northeast Tennessee a preferred destination because of its many amenities.
Appalachian Heritage Day offers Johnson County a glimpse into the past
One drizzly wet morning last week, a small group gathered in the Farm Bureau’s meeting room to celebrate Appalachian heritage and keep some traditions alive. Although the weather outside was a little chilly, the atmosphere inside was warm and inviting during Appalachian Heritage Skills Day. The event, sponsored by the Johnson County UT TSU Extension office, offered a full day of crafts and activities related to Appalachia.
Three events one venue all to honor veterans
Johnson County is known as a community that remembers and honors its local veterans. “In Johnson County, they love the veterans,” said Bill Caldwell, Veterans Service Officer. “I have lived in communities where it was considered just another day, and I think the way the VFW and other organizations show they care is great.” During Veterans Day this year, as always, the county came alive with activities and events, all with the mission of giving veterans the honor and remembering their service.
Mountain City calculates initial Helene damage at $1.6M
The current cost of damage related to Helene for the Town of Mountain City is 1.6M, and the numbers are expected to continue climbing. “Our town is hurting, but we are strong,” said Mountain City Mayor Jerry Jordan. On September 27, the storm Helene blasted through six states, leaving a path of destruction nearly 500 miles long. The Town of Mountain City suffered greatly, with power and water losses, flooding, road destruction, and tree downings, to name just some of the devastation.
Special Forces Association Chapter 111 Celebrates Second Annual Fall gala
Special Forces Association Chapter 111, a military association whose chapters work to unite fraternally all persons who are now or have been assigned to the United States Army's most elite force, the ‘Green Berets’ hosted its second Annual Fall Gala last week at the Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City. Last year's event was such a great success that the organizer did not hesitate to immediately begin preparations for this year's festivities, appropriately called the Blue Ridge Fall Gala.
Johnson County F.F.A. announces annual sale of Christmas poinsettias
Johnson County F.F.A. announced Christmas poinsettias are currently available to purchase at the Johnson County High School greenhouse while supplies last. Holiday decorating started a little earlier this year as people across the county recover from the devastation of the storm. Since its inception in 1985, the annual sale of poinsettias has been a much-anticipated event for many residents.
Roadblock Collects $14,000 to Benefit Cancer Support
Johnson County Cancer Support Group has been a rock of support for many who deal with cancer, and thanks to the generosity of Johnson County residents, many more can receive help at just the right time. During the recent roadblock, the organization received $14,000, an outpouring of support from the local community. The generosity of everyone who donated and all the volunteers who stood in the weather to collect donations is deeply appreciated by organizers.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary celebrates 50 years in Johnson County
The local VFW Auxiliary to Post 6908 celebrated a milestone this week. “It’s our fiftieth birthday,” said Kaye Parsons, President. The VFW Auxiliary to Post 6908 was started in 1974 with the mission to improve the lives of combat veterans, service members, their families, and the community. “The auxiliary exists to support the VFW with different areas,” she said. The organization’s 29 members all share an active part in supporting the events held by the local VFW.
BBQ fundraiser slated for November 11
Organizers of the Veteran’s Day BBQ fundraiser to be held on Monday November 11, 2024, are counting on the community to support the event and raise money for a good cause. Scheduled from 4-7 p.m. at Doe Valley Farm 313 Stagecoach Loop, Mountain City, TN, the event is to benefit the local VFW Post 6908 Hurricane Helene recovery fundraising efforts.
JCTA seeks support to restore Laurel Creek Trail after Helene
The Laurel Creek trail is one of the more popular trails in Johnson County. Many consider the trail a community treasure because of its picturesque scenery, relatively easy hike, wooden bridge, and access to restroom facilities. However, when Helene blew through six states, leaving a path of destruction in her wake, she did not spare the beloved trail. “There is extensive damage,” said Philip Burtt-Henderson, President of the Johnson County Trails Association (JCTA).
JCTA seeks support to restore Laurel Creek Trail after Helene
The Laurel Creek trail is one of the more popular trails in Johnson County. Many consider the trail a community treasure because of its picturesque scenery, relatively easy hike, wooden bridge, and access to restroom facilities. However, when Helene blew through six states, leaving a path of destruction in her wake, she did not spare the beloved trail. “There is extensive damage,” said Philip Burtt-Henderson, President of the Johnson County Trails Association (JCTA).
Fight fire with fire
The Neva Fire Department faced a tough night on Wednesday, October 23, when a massive brushfire broke out in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The rugged, steep terrain, coupled with dry conditions and wind, caused the state forest fire service and Johnson County Fire units to be requested on a county-all page. “Last night’s fire was a lot because of the trees down, and it caught all the brush,” said Justin Arnold, Assistant Chief with the Neva Volunteer Fire Department.
First Baptist Church in Mountain City opens doors for mental health relief
Many were taken by surprise by the suddenness with which Helene swept through Johnson County, leaving a path of destruction in her wake. Just a month after the storm and many in the community have seen life as they knew it forever changed. As people across the county continue to pick up the pieces, some may find the loss overwhelming emotionally. Others have spent countless hours giving back to those in need in various ways, volunteering with cleanup, rescue, and recovery efforts.
Mobile repair service keeps RV's home
The expression necessity is the mother of invention came to fruition when one local man needed maintenance performed on his recreational vehicle. Dennis Root and his wife, Kathy, started Blue Wolf Mobile RV Services, a 100 percent mobile RV repair service, after having to complete many repairs on his own. “I retired and was living in my RV, and it had heating issues and leak issues," he said. "I had to learn how to fix them.
Time is running out
Applications are currently being accepted for residents of Johnson County who have lost their homes due to Hurricane Helene. But time to apply is running out on some of the programs and residents affected are urged to take advantage of what is available. Qualifying individuals are encouraged to apply before the deadline on November 4, 2024. Mountain Ways announced the program is being offered to homeowners and renters who experienced 100 percent loss of their primary residence.
Farmers receive a blessing after the storm Original
Johnson County was hard hit as Hurricane Helene blew through six states, leaving a path of destruction in her wake. While residents across the county continue to work on recovery, one local organization seeks to help fill a specific, sometimes overlooked need. Members of the Johnson County Equine and Agriculture Association have concentrated on farm relief efforts in the weeks following the storm.
FEMA application denial may not be the end of the road Original
Part of the recovery process after a disaster is knowing where to turn for help. Several organizations have been established to provide people with practical assistance after being affected by Helene, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which offers one of the larger relief efforts. While discussing some of the programs available to help, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell emphasized, “FEMA is here for the people.
Long Lived the King, Crowned White Oak Conquered by Helene Original
One year ago, on October 12, 2023, the white oak in Cunningham Park received the crown and was awarded official state champion status by the Tennessee Urban Forestry Conference. During its over three hundred years, the tree has become a beloved part of Johnson County, and it has many fond memories for residents of special times under its vast branches. During the storm on Friday, September 27, a large piece of Johnson County’s history was lost when the white oak fell.
“Service is our middle name”
Across Johnson County, stories of people helping people after Helene's destruction are countless. Creeks and rivers overflowed, landslides took out bridges, and trees toppled after facing the storm's fierce winds. But in the days and weeks following the devastation, people across the community testified that Johnson County is a place where people care about one another. As folks across the county struggled with no power and electricity, disaster recovery quickly became top priority.
Calm after the storm- watercolor class brings comfort
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Calm after the storm- watercolor class brings comfort Original
Last Wednesday, fifteen people gathered in the art room at Gallery on Main, located at 129 West Main Street, Mountain City, TN, to take a watercolor class. The class provided a sense of normalcy and comfort in the weeks following the storm. The destruction and devastation across Johnson County has weighed heavy on residents as the town seeks to pick up the pieces. Although not touted as a therapy session, many felt the event was a much-needed break from recent stresses related to the storm.
Unsung heroes Johnson County's first responders Original
The days following Hurricane Helene were traumatic for many residents. Thanks to a few unsung heroes, when tragedy struck, a comforting voice was on the other end of the line. Every community has unsung heroes, and without the contributions of selfless individuals whose efforts often go unnoticed, the storm would have had an even deeper impact.
Barks and Bubbles faces formidable challenges after flood Original
There are many stories of heartbreak and loss across Johnson County. For some, the road ahead seems formidable as they pick up the pieces after the storm. One single mother lost her livelihood when her business was flooded after Helene wrecked a path through Mountain City. “Everything was under three feet of water,” said Nina Richards-Lane, owner of Barks and Bubbles pet grooming business located at 1400 South Shady Street in Mountain City.
Drowned but not down, VFW Post 6908 after the flood
The Mountain City VFW Post 6908 is a lifeline for many in the community. In addition to caring for veterans, the organization has a well-deserved reputation for giving back to the community. kAmu@==@H:?8 :ED >@EE@[ “'6E6C2?D u:CDE r@>>F?:EJ p=H2JD[” !@DE r@>>2?56C s2? !2CD@?D 2?5 9:D 76==@H G6E6C2?D 4@?E:?F6 E@ H@C< E:C6=6DD=J :? E96 4@>>F?:EJ[ 96=A:?8 H96C6G6C E96J 42?]k^Am kAm}@H[ E96 @C82?:K2E:@? E92E 92D 96=A65 D@ >F49 :D :?
Drowned but not down, VFW Post 6908 after the flood Original
The Mountain City VFW Post 6908 is a lifeline for many in the community. In addition to caring for veterans, the organization has a well-deserved reputation for giving back to the community. Following its motto, “Veterans First Community Always,” Post Commander Dan Parsons and his fellow veterans continue to work tirelessly in the community, helping wherever they can. Now, the organization that has helped so much is in need of help itself.
Brotherhood forged in fire bond stronger after the storm Original
The Elk Mills/Poga Volunteer Fire Department became one more casualty last week as the storm Helene ravaged through the Southeast, leaving a mass of destruction in its wake. The video released on social media of the volunteer fire department’s building and tanker being washed away quickly went viral. “I took a video for locals to see what happened, which went viral. Fire stations across the nation are showing it and want to help,” said Darren Clark, a volunteer firefighter.
Hidden treasures revealed after storm Original
The Town of Mountain City is devastated, yet out of the rubble comes a treasure worth noticing. The Appalachian spirit is alive and well after the storm named Helene attempted to rip the county apart. Oh, she may have done damage, and wreaked havoc on material possessions, but her strong winds were unable to break the bonds that tie Johnson County together. Resilience, kindness, and a strong sense of community is seen in every corner of Johnson County. Neighbors helping neighbors after the storm.
Satellite internet reconnects families after the storm
Residents across the Tri Cities try to figure out the next steps after losing so much to storm damage. The town of Damascus, Virginia was also hit hard as Helene blew through, knocking out bridges and cutting off lifelines. The local park downtown has become a command center offering residents a place to take a shower, wash clothes, eat a hot meal and pick up needed supplies.
Satellite internet reconnects families after the storm
Residents across the Tri Cities try to figure out the next steps after losing so much to storm damage. The town of Damascus, Virginia was also hit hard as Helene blew through, knocking out bridges and cutting off lifelines. The local park downtown has become a command center offering residents a place to take a shower, wash clothes, eat a hot meal and pick up needed supplies.
Mobile Post Office coming to Mountain City
As the community struggles to pick up the pieces after Helene wreaked havoc on the community, now one more inconvenience is added to the list. Prior to the storm, the Town of Mountain City’s residents faced the inconvenience of not having a local post office. On Wednesday, September 11, visitors to the Mountain City Post Office were greeted with a note on the door informing customers that the office would be closing due to structural issues with the roof.
Johnson County FFA wins first place
The Johnson County Future Farmers of America (FFA) students took home first place during a recent soil judging competition in Elizabethton. “We placed first and second, they are high producing kids, have a lot of ambition,” said Tracy Dugger , Animal Science, Plant Science, Aquaculture, and Agriscience teacher.
Concerned parent addresses Johnson County School Board
Laurel Elementary may be the smallest school in Johnson County but based on the recent school board meeting, the school has a huge advocate. Donna Crotts approached the Johnson County School Board requesting an answer to what she expressed was a delay in the repairs for the parking lot. Repaving the parking lot has been on the school board agenda during several meetings, and Crotts used the September school board meeting to bring up the discussion again.
Experience fall in Johnson County's pumpkin patch
As the temperatures start to cool and the mountains around Johnson County come alive with color, many residents enjoy attending fall events that focus on the beauty of the season. For one local youth the highlight of fall is the family’s annual trek to a pumpkin patch in a different town. The trip to visit a pumpkin patch required considerable time in the car, and the lack of a local patch gave impetus to the Wolfe family to bring the tradition closer to home.
Watauga Lake Cleanup on September 28
Johnson County and surrounding area residents are gearing up to take part in the 15th Annual Watauga Lake Cleanup slated for Saturday, September 28. The community is invited to help clean up and keep beautiful what some consider one of the prettiest places in Johnson County. Volunteers are asked to gather and pick up equipment at four locations: Fish Springs Marina, Rat Branch Boat Ramp, Roan Creek Bridge Hwy 167, and Pioneer Landing Marina.
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