http://www.hometownclinton.com/ Clinton Courier News - Local News and Information for the community of Clinton TN en-us Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST Wed, 22 May 2013 02:06:29 EST editor@hometownclinton.com (editor) Copyright 2006-2013, Republic Newspapers Inc. Newspapers http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/185.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/185.html EDITOR: What a night May 11 was for moe than 100 individuals supports served through Emory Valley Center in its mission to enhance the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities! Maggie and Andy Owen, supported by many volunteers led the charge to hold EVC’s second Prom, “An Evening with the Stars.” This year’s theme was a Hawaiian Luau, with decorations, food, and personal photos all relating to a fun adventure for our individuals. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/184.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/184.html EDITOR: This month’s Operations Committee meeting included discussion on a proposed Resolution that would disqualify any fee or membership based fire department from participating in the County’s annual appropriations plan for major asset purchases. Under the current agreement, property taxes fund equipment purchases for both the municipal and volunteer fire departments on a yearly rotational basis. According to current state statutes, local governments have only two options available to fund or contribute to the County Fire Departments. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/183.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/183.html EDITOR: The Antique Merchants Guild of Clinton wishes to thank all who helped make the Ninth Annual Clinch River Spring Antique Fair a success. In particular, it would not have been possible without the support of the City of Clinton and the Clinton Police Department. We also would like to thank Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge and The Community Bank for continuing to be sponsors of this wonderful community event. We also appreciate “WestWend” for providing the great musical entertainment on Friday evening. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/182.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/182.html An in-depth Anderson County Sheriff’s Department operational analysis for 2012 revealed that overall crime in Anderson County declined significantly over the previous 24 months but despite the diminished number of incidents the county’s jail population continues to soar. The analysis, released by the Sheriff’s Department on Tuesday, May 14, states that overall crime is down 15.40-percent from 2011 and down 24.53-percent over the last two years. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/181.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/181.html High school is a wonderful place to be a part of to make new friends, get involved, and find your true self. So to convince the 8th graders that high school isn’t a place to be nervous and scared, the Anderson County M.O.O. Crew came in to save the day. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/180.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/180.html Less than a month before receiving their bachelor’s degrees from Maryville College, three former students of Clinton High School shared the stage of the College’s Academic Awards Ceremony, where they were recognized as finalists for the prestigious Outstanding Senior Award. Blake Douglas, Emily Julian and Devan Reynolds ñ all 2009 graduates of Clinton High School ñ were introduced to the ceremony crowd by their faculty advisors. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/179.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/179.html Fourth and fifth-grade Briceville Elementary School students were joined by several local and state dignitaries on a wooded hillside on a side road in the Beech Grove community of Lake City Friday morning, May 17, to “officially” sign treaties to end the hostilities of Coal Creek War, an armed labor uprising fought in those same hills and valleys more than 120 years earlier. The Coal Creek War began in 1891 when coal mine owners in the Coal Creek Watershed attempted to replace free coal mine workers with convict miners leased out by the government. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/178.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/178.html Anderson County Law Director Jay Yeager went on the defense this week in response to damning accusations toward his office made by Mayor Terry Frank at the Wednesday, May 9, Budget Committee workshop when announcing her 2013-2014 budget proposal. Yeager stated that the allegations made by Frank regarding his office were not only false and misleading but in some cases outright lies. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/177.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/177.html Clinton City Council has moved it’s meeting time to Thursday, May 23, because of Memorial Day. At the May 23 meeting Clinton City Council will have its first reading of the 2013-2014 budget. For the fourth year there will be no property rate increase for Clinton residents. Sun, 19 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/176.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/176.html Michael Ousley has been named to open a new Edward Jones branch office located at 125 Leinart Street in Clinton, on Wednesday, May 15, 2013, the firm announced today. Ousley said he is enthusiastic about opening an additional branch office. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/175.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/175.html Sometimes things happen that quickly remind us of what is really important in life. Avery Baker is a 5-year-old girl who is in the fight of her life. She was recently diagnosed with Leukemia and has begun a grueling 27 month treatment plan of chemo. If that wasn’t enough, her father is battling Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/174.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/174.html A group of Clinton High School students spearheaded a school-wide anti-bullying campaign from Monday, May 6, through Thursday, May 9 this week at the high school. CHS teacher Pat Hess said the idea for the campaign came about after students from her advanced criminal justice class viewed the critically acclaimed 2011 documentary “Bully”, which details the lives of five U.S. high school students who face school bullying on a daily basis. After seeing the film the students decided to do something about bullying at CHS and went about getting the signatures of 294 CHS students pledging to stop bullying. The pledges are signed on a poster hanging in the school’s hallway and displayed hanging behind the students in the above photo. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/173.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/173.html On Monday, the Senate passed a measure that would subject Internet commerce to state sales taxes for the first time. The misleadingly titled “Marketplace Fairness Act” enjoyed bipartisan support with 22 Republican senators voting “yea” on the bill. Currently, states cannot force Internet retailers outside of their borders to collect sales tax on their behalf. The Marketplace Fairness Act would change that. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/172.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/172.html First Graders from Clinton Elementary enjoyed a day at the Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg for the class’s field trip. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/171.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/171.html Christa Sage Carpenter, age 11, has been chosen as a State Finalist in the National American Miss Tennessee Pageant to be held July 27 & 28, 2013 at the beautiful Franklin Marriott Cool Springs, Franklin. She is the daughter of Trent and Chantelle Carpenter and twin sister of Cannon Carpenter, all of Anderson County. The pageant is held for girls ages 10 through 12. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/170.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/170.html The following students of Lyndsey Steadman Denton performed in the annual piano recital at Clinton First Baptist Church May 4. Students earned state and local awards through adjudications in the Tennessee Festival of Music Clubs (TFMC) and National Guild of Piano Playing Auditions. Students also participated in the TFMC State piano competition at Chattanooga State Community College. Pictured are, from left, Emily Bigler, Catherine Meredith, William Winstead and Caroline Elliott. Not pictured is Jacori Wimes. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/169.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/169.html Longtime Norris Elementary School volunteer Mary Hammond (right) presents NES Principal Jess Anne Cole (left) with a monetary gift on Monday, May 6, to purchase books to be used as part of the program “The Leader in Me,” which NES will begin instilling into its curriculum next school year. The surprise presentation took place during the school’s annual tea banquet held at the end of each academic year to honor volunteers and tutors who spend their free time helping students with schoolwork. Approximately 25-30 NES volunteers were honored at Monday’s banquet. As Cole was paying tribute to the volunteers Hammond turned the tables and presented Cole with the gift in the name of Cole’s late mother, Jo Ann Thomas, a former longtime educator who passed away recently. Hammond explained after the presentation that the school librarian, Crystie Hogue, would select the books to be available to the student body next school year in the NES library. Introduced by Dr. Franklin Covey, “The Leader in Me” is described on its web site as an innovative, schoolwide model that emphasizes a culture of student empowerment and helps unleash each child’s full potential. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/168.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/168.html Anderson County Government’s Alternatives to Incarcerations Committee held its first meeting in more than three months on Tuesday evening, May 7. The seven-person committee, charged with overseeing Anderson County Commission’s fledgling Alternatives to Incarceration program, unanimously elected Dist. 8 Commissioner Myron Iwanski as its chairman. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/167.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/167.html It’s going to be at least one more week before the county’s Budget Committee votes on Mayor Terry Frank’s proposed budget. News of the delay came approximately 24 hours after Frank shocked county officials during a Wednesday, May 7, Budget Committee workshop by outlining a proposal that drastically cuts funding for the county law director’s department and virtually dismantles the alternatives to incarcerations program. Sun, 12 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/166.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/166.html EDITOR: Last Saturday, April 27, 2013, local law enforcement agencies teamed up to host Operation Medicine Cabinet at four locations across the county. Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, Clinton Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Oak Ridge Police Department, and Oliver Springs Police Department joined forces with Allies for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) to provide four convenient locations for medicine disposal. Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/165.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/165.html Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank (standing center) recites the Pledge of Allegiance to open the Thursday, May 2, National Day of Prayer ceremony held on the steps of the Anderson County Courthouse. Frank served as master of ceremony introducing various local religious leaders as well as county government employees who led the audience of more than 100 people in prayer. Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/164.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/164.html EDITOR: The Anderson County High School Marching Band has been raising money for new uniforms since the fall of 2011. Many parents, family, friends, alumni, and businesses have contributed to the fund and/or helped us raise money. Most recently we had a very successful car wash at Tornado Alley 3-Minute Car Wash which raised more than $2,000. We counted 301 cars coming through the line. Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/163.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/163.html The Clinton High School Theatre Department presented the classic William Shakespeare comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” during three rousing performances last week at the school’s Little Theatre. Written around 400 years ago, the play is categorized as a comedy and is one of Shakespeare’s most popular works for the stage and is widely performed across the world. Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/162.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/162.html The state’s first net-zero classroom was unveiled Tuesday afternoon, April 30, on the campus of Clinton High School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that was a long time coming but, according to CHS engineering teacher Ben Barrington, was well worth the wait. “It was great,” said Barrington. “Everything went great at the ribbon-cutting. We’ve been planning this for a couple years and we’re extremely excited to see the finished product. I think it’s even better than expected.” Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/161.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/05/161.html Recently released data from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) indicates crime in Anderson County has decreased each of the last six years. According to state crime statistics for 2012, a total of 5,351 crimes were reported in Anderson County last year compared to 5,976 reported in 2011. Overall crime numbers were down in Tennessee by 2.8-percent however Anderson County’s reported crimes fell a whopping 10.5-percent. Sun, 05 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/158.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/158.html Clinton Police Department Detective Vaughn Becker (left) was honored with a “Certificate of Excellence” for Anderson County District Attorney Dave Clark. It is only the second such certificate to be awarded by the DA’s office. In honoring Becker, Clark said the CPD Detective is called upon by area agencies for his expertise in managing a crime scene, and especially for his ability to work with abused children. Clark said that because of Becker’s work with other law enforcement agencies, those agencies are “always willing” to help out CPD if needed. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/157.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/157.html Anderson County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Shaun L. Bannach recognized quickly that something was amiss upon spotting a man and woman lingering behind a suspiciously parked vehicle along Walden Ridge Road on Sunday evening, April 14, in the Briceville Community. Bannach states in his ACSD incident report that the couple appeared to be hiding something. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/156.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/156.html Grand Oaks Elementary recently recognized exemplary character with a brunch, sponsored by Faith Lutheran Church in Oak Ridge. Each month a different character trait is emphasized and students are chosen who demonstrate that trait. Also recognized were the February “Citizenship” students. These students are, back row from left, Brian Cranmore, Camden Batchellor, McKenzie Queener, Brent Singleton, Dalton, Hyde. In the middle row are, from left, Morgan Lowe, Haley Metheny, Bryson Greene, Joseph Cantrell. In teh front row are, from left, Mason Miller, Dylan Fritts, Hunter Elmore, Jaxsen Kanipes and Bryson Rice. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/155.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/155.html Grand Oaks Elementary recently recognized exemplary character with a brunch, sponsored by Faith Lutheran Church in Oak Ridge. Each month a different character trait is emphasized and students are chosen who demonstrate that trait. For the month of January, the character trait was “Caring” and the following students were recognized: Back row from leeft, Faith Mullins, Kelsie George, Dalton McMahan, Jacob Castillo, and Ashley Long. In the middle row are, from left, Kaylee Davis, Serenity Cranmore, Trinity Cranmore, and Kaden Eades. In the front row are, from left, Sophia Davis, Sierra Duncan, Khloe Castillo, and Alijiah Alloway. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/154.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/154.html March Students of the Month at Dutch Valley Elementary School are, front row from left, James Robinson, Logan Fritts, Katie McGuffey, Corbin White, Phillip Owens and Jacob Hileman. In the back row are, from left, Shawn Humphrey, Trevor Kemp, Quincy Willis, Hannah Carter, Andy King, Principal Jennifer Foust. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/153.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/153.html North Clinton Students of the Month for March are, front row from left, Leah Gaylor, Garrett Phillips, Jazz Braden, and Tucker Seeber. In the back row are, from left, Alyssa Tucker, Dakota Walden, Uriah Powers, Daniel Buhl, and Hunter Mason. Not pictured is Nathan Gilbert. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/152.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/152.html The Interact Club at Clinton High School hosted “Purple Pinky Day” to raise funds to combat the crippling killer Polio virus. Students donating to this humanitarian cause had their pinky finger dyed purple, just like children all over the world who receive the Polio vaccine. Polio is almost eradicated, but vaccinations must continue to prevent world-wide outbreaks that might affect the United States. The Clinton High School Interact Club is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Clinton. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/151.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/151.html Just before spring break, students at Andersonville Elementary enjoyed a pep rally courtesy of the athletes and band of Anderson County High School. The AES gymnasium was filled with students as ACHS cheerleaders led them in cheers and the ACHS band performed song after song. Athletes from virtually all of the Mavericks’ and Lady Mavericks’ team milled about, mingling with the students and offering encouragement to them. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/150.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/150.html Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI) is honored to have received the “Circle of Champions” Award for achieving performance growth metrics in 2012 with United States Liability Insurance Group. USLI, headquartered in Wayne, Penn., is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies. USLI offers a variety of Commercial and Specialty Insurance products countrywide. Presenting the award from USLI was Tom Nerney - CEO, Tom Snyder - Chief Marketing Officer and Sarah Lowe - Chief of Staff. Receiving the award on behalf of AUI was Bob Arowood - President and Jeff Hensley - Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “We appreciate the consistent growth USLI has afforded us over the years. It is representative of how well positioned they are in the market for the products they offer, further validated by the acceptance from our national independent agency base,” said Bob Arowood. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/149.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/149.html The 8th semi-annual Cardboard Boat Race was held at 5 p.m. Thursday at the Oak Ridge Marina. Engineering students from Clinton High School and Anderson County Career and Technical Center competed in this race of boats made entirely of cardboard and duct tape. CHS took 1st place and 3rd place. ACCTC captured 2nd place. Engineering instructor for CHS is Ben Barrington and Stacey Griffith is the instructor at ACCTC. The schools will compete again in the Fall. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/148.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/148.html Dutch Valley Elementary School Cookie Dough fundraiser winners enjoyed a limo ride and aunch at McDonalds. In the front row are, from left, Abby Foust, Maddy Hooks, Carson Brooks, Emilee Price, Lyrick Hargett, Callie Glymp, Callie Cox, Haley Howard, Faith McGuffey, Josh Patton, and Emma Glymp. In the back row are, from left, Caleb McGuff, Krysten Bunch, Justin Winsbro, Katelyn Patterson, Kyla Irwin, Alexis Maness, Zachary Pond, Quincy Willis, Lexie Douglas, and Ethan Boshears. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/147.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/147.html Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank and members of the John Rice Irwin Anderson County Chapter of Sons of the Revolution honored lifelong historian John Rice Irwin last week. Frank, members of the local SOR Chapter, and family and friends of John Rice Irwin gathered on Tuesday afternoon, April 16, at Meadow View Assisted Living, the facility at which John Rice Irwin lives; the facility is located near his beloved Museum of Appalachia. The purpose of the gathering: to honor Irwin with a proclamation recognizing his dedication to preserving the history of the Appalachian region and its people. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/146.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/146.html Arson is believed to be the cause of a blaze that some local fire officials are saying is one of Lake City’s worst fires ever. The Saturday afternoon, April 20, blaze destroyed the 37,000-square-foot Dixie Roofing Company warehouse in the Lake City Industrial Park. More than 50 firefighters from six different area fire departments responded to work the blaze. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/145.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/145.html Mercy For Animals is calling on Governor Haslam to veto SB 1248/HB 1191. These bills are transparent attempts by agribusiness interests to sweep evidence of animal cruelty under the rug and shield animal abusers from public scrutiny. They are ag-gag bills specifically designed to silence whistleblowers and keep the people of Tennessee in the dark about where their food comes from. The purpose of these bills is to prevent whistleblowers from documenting and exposing the full extent of animal abuse and other criminal activity in factory farms and slaughterhouses. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/144.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/144.html EDITOR: I feel compelled to acknowledge the fine teachers of Grand Oaks Elementary School for their generosity toward the University of Colorado (CU-Boulder) Crew team during last weekend’s Regatta at Melton Lake. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/143.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/143.html EDITOR: I would like to thank the Andersonville Fire Department Board for their kind letter in last week’s paper. It was very nice of the board to call a meeting and have this item on their agenda. It would even be better if the board would consider placing the people they represent on the agenda and address the concerns of the people in the fire district in which they serve. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/142.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/142.html The American Red Cross is synonymous with helping people, and has been doing so for more than 130 years. Each March, the Red Cross recognizes its volunteers who help the organization assist those in need; this year, the Anderson County Red Cross recognized Debbie Scarbrough, coordinator of the Hospitality Houses at Methodist Medical Center during the Annual Humanitarian Awards Luncheon held on March 19. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/141.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/141.html The Allstate Foundation recently made a $1,000 contribution to ADFAC (Aid To Distressed Families of Appalachian Counties, Inc.) through the Allstate Agency Hands in the Community grant program. The contribution was in honor of David Erb, local Allstate agent in recognition of his volunteering with the agency. Erb serves on the ADFAC Development & Public Relations Committee and is an active member of the “Dine & Donate” Committee, which is a new event that is replacing ADFAC’s “Feed The Need.” Pictured from left are, David Erb, Annie Cacheiro, ADFAC Executive Director and Cande Seay, ADFAC Vice President and Development Committee Chair. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/140.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/140.html Anderson County Commission Chairman Chuck Fritts encountered an opponent this week capable of disbursing far more pain and misery than any vengeful local politico could ever muster. The longtime Dist. 1 Commissioner and second year chairman spent five days in the Oak Ridge Methodist Medical Center - from Saturday, April 20, until Wednesday, April 24 - after being bit on the left foot by a venomous brown recluse spider. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/139.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/139.html Former Clinton City Manager Steve Jones has been hired by the City of Oak Ridge to provide economic development support services, with a particular emphasis on industrial and commercial recruitment. The term of the support services agreement is April through October 2013. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/138.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/138.html Escalating concern that the annual budget process is lagging under first-year Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank was somewhat addressed on Wednesday afternoon, April 13, when Frank issued a press release announcing that the county’s Budget Committee has planned its next budget workshop for Monday, May 6. The next official Budget Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 9. That is the self-imposed deadline date set by the committee to finalize its 2013-2014 budget. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/137.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/137.html Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank is attempting to put a positive spin on what figures to be a particularly challenging budget season for Anderson County Government. Both the Mayor and the county’s budget director stated last week that several significant financial hurdles facing county government this budget year should only serve as opportunities to improve governmental efficiencies for the future. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/136.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/136.html Clinton native Natalie Bible premiered her first full-length motion picture, “Windsor Drive,” Saturday at the Ritz Theater. Bible (pictured above with another Clinton celebrity, Freddy Fagan), brought the cast and crew of the movie for the event. Tommy O’Reilly, who plays River Miller in the film, is the story of a mentally unstable actor trying for a part in the remake of a Hollywood classic. The film also features Samaire Armstrong, Jillian Murray, Matt Cohen, Gary Kohn, Maetrix Fitten, Mandy Musgrave and Anna Gurji. The film will open nationwide in the fall of 2013. Sun, 28 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/135.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/135.html While 20 Cadets were at work doing community service last Saturday, helping clean trails and roads in the Norris Watershed, CDR Mariner announced that Anderson County High School and its NJROTC Maverick Company had been selected for its 10th consecutive Distinguished Unit Award for the 2012-2013 School Year. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/134.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/134.html The Andersonville Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) would like to respond to comments recently attributed to Commissioner Tracy Wandell by your paper regarding his opposition to the county purchasing a new fire truck for AVFD. Commissioner Wandell stated he would only support such purchases for “those who take care of the folks in that district and don’t charge them a membership fee.” Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/133.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/133.html I read Lynn Byrge’s latest edict on four county commissioners. I am disappointed that none of the Oak Ridges citizens have not spoken out. It is hard to believe that the Baptists in Anderson County can allow one person to be so judgmental about a decision that these individuals voted in what they deemed was best for their community. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/132.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/132.html Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with Omega Plastics officials announced today the company will expand its corporate headquarters in Clinton, Tenn., investing $8.2 million and adding 80 new positions in Anderson County. “The importance of incumbent industries in Tennessee cannot be understated,” Hagerty said. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/131.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/131.html Six East Tennessee State University students óon of whom is from Clinton ó have been selected for inclusion in the most recent edition of Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Elyssa Champion of Clinton is a senior Honors-in-Discipline student majoring in nursing. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/130.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/130.html Junior Achievement of East Tennessee welcomed three outstanding business leaders to the East Tennessee Business Hall of Fame during the 25th Annual event held on April 11th at the downtown Knoxville Convention Center. Steve West, Chairman of West Chevrolet and West Properties, LLC; Jim Shelby, posthumously, Business and Financial Analyst; and Joseph Hollingsworth, Owner and CEO of the Hollingsworth Companies were inducted at this year’s event. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/129.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/129.html Anderson County Circuit Court Clerk, Tyler Mayes, has a launched a new Website that gives the general public, members of the legal community, victims, witnesses, and other interested parties online access to the daily operations of the court system. The new Website is: www.andersoncountycircuitcourt.com Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/128.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/128.html Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America (NYO-USA) has named John Paul Powers as principal tuba for its 2013 inaugural season. Powers was chosen for the All-American orchestra following a comprehensive audition process. He was the only tuba chosen for the orchestra. The only other Tennessean chosen was Benjamin Parton, violin from Sevierville. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/127.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/127.html South Clinton Elementary School Student Council painted hopscotch and four-square on the pavement for all students to play on during recess. Taylor Beets, Syndey Taylor and Angel Massey participated. Above: Massey works on painting four-square on to Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/126.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/126.html The Anderson County School System’s director of safety remains confident county officials will do what it takes to ensure that needed safety measures are in place before the start of the 2013-2014 academic year despite County Commission’s reluctance Monday to fund approximately $151,000 worth of security upgrades requested by the schools. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/125.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/125.html A multi-agency investigation determined that an Anderson County Sheriff’s Department deputy acted within accordance of the law and Sheriff’s Department training during an October 2012 shooting that left a 30-year-old Clinton man dead. According to an investigation summary released last week by the Dist. 7 Attorney General’s Office, Anderson County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Steven Williams was “within his right to use deadly force” during an intense struggle with Clinton resident Randall Kyle Wilcox following what initially appeared to be a routine traffic stop on Pine Ridge Road in the Marlow community. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/124.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/124.html Clinton businessman Joe Hollingsworth Jr. was honored by the Anderson County Commission at its Monday, April 15, day-session meeting with a resolution praising Hollingsworth’s lifelong devotion to the success of economic development, housing and employment in Anderson County. The resolution was presented by Dist. 2 Commissioner Rick Meredith, who is employeed as the senior vice president for community development of the Hollingsworth Companies. Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/123.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/123.html Anderson County’s Operations Committee Chairperson Robin Biloski was forced to use her seldom-deployed gavel at the Monday, April 8, meeting when commotion erupted during a heated debate over a motion to inscribe the country’s motto “In God We Trust” above all four entrances of the Anderson County Courthouse. As audience members, commissioners and county officials commenced to shouting and finger pointing during a passionate and accusing spiel by Dist. 6 Commissioner Whitey Hitchcock, the chairperson repeatedly slammed her gavel demanding quiet. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/122.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/122.html The Anderson County Commission’s Operations Committee at its Monday, April 9, meeting put the committee’s final stamp of approval on plans to have the nation’s official motto - “In God We Trust” - permanently inscribed with gold lettering on black granite above all four entrances of the 46-year-old Anderson County Courthouse. The county’s legislative body will vote whether to approve the Operations Committee’s recommendation at its Monday, April 15, day-session meeting at 9:30 a.m. in Room 312 of the courthouse. Monday’s vote could put to rest an issue that has dominated county government for the past two months. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/121.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/121.html Strong winds and smoldering mulch weren’t the worse things Clinton Fire Department had to deal with Thursday. Less that two hours after Clinton Fire Department responded to, and put out, a fire at Motel 6 near the Clinton I-75 intersection, Clinton Fire Chief Archie Brummitt suffered a heart attack. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/120.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/120.html Anderson County has lost another soldier to the war in Afghanistan. SSG Christopher Michael Ward of Oak Ridge died as the result of a “improvised explosive device” Saturday, April 6. Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Many-Bears Grinder announced the death of Ward in a press release. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/119.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/119.html They teach. They teach at the high school where they once were students. They are highly-motivated, well-educated professionals who teach at their alma mater. This is not a new phenomenon at Clinton High School. Venerated, retired educators like Margaret Calhoun, Alvin Taylor, Gene Owens, Ronnie Kriss, Robert Brown, John Byrd, Larry Gann, and Becky Rosenbaum were all part of what has clearly become a Dragon tradition. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/118.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/118.html The American Museum of Science and Energy received the Tennessee Association of Museum’s 2013 Special Award of Excellence in recognition of superlative achievement with Special Recognition for The Photography of Ed Westcott, via innovative webpage content. Accepting TAM’s Award of Excellence on behalf of AMSE for the museum was Ken Mayes, AMSE Deputy Director, who attended the organization’s annual conference in Middle Tennessee on March 20. The purpose of TAM’s Excellence Award is to recognize, encourage, and promote excellence within the activities of the Tennessee Museum community. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/117.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/117.html Andersonville Volunteer Fire Department Board Member David Allen told the Anderson County Commission’s Operations Committee this week that a resolution forbidding the AVFD from receiving a new fire truck this year is unfair to residents of the Belmont Community. The AVFD has been under intense scrutiny from residents of that area after converting to a subscription-based operation on Jan. 1. The fire department now requires its members to pay annual membership fees based upon square-footage of a home in order to receive services. As of March 1, non-paying members are charged substantial fees if the fire department is called to their homes. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/116.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/116.html A concept allowing citizens to act as flies on the wall while members of the county’s legislative body publicly hash out topical issues in an online forum setting is an approach to efficiency and transparency in county government that will be addressed in the coming weeks by members of the Anderson County Commission. Dist. 3 Commissioner Dusty Irwin outlined an idea for such an online forum at the Monday, April 8, Operations Committee meeting and asked his fellow commissioners to see if the concept is something they want to explore going forward as an avenue to economize monthly commission meetings while openly discussing issues without violating the Sunshine Law. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/115.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/115.html American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for high school students. It is a participatory program where each participant becomes a part of the operation of his local, county and state government. At American Legion Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen. The training is objective and practical with city, county and state governments operated by the students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs. High school juniors are selected by local American Legion Posts to attend the program Volunteer Girls State (VGS) is a leadership and citizenship-training program offered to young women in Tennessee by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA). ALA Volunteer Girls State is a one-week program offered to young women who are rising seniors in high school. The program, as sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, is a nonpartisan, non-political attempt to teach and to instill in the young women of Tennessee a love of God and country.Both Volunteer Girls State and Tennessee Boys State select two citizens to travel to Washington, D.C., in the middle of July to serve as senators from Tennessee in the National program. Boys and Girls State will take place May 26 ñ June 1. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/114.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/114.html The Clinton High School First Robotics team # 4630, the Robodragons, competed March 28th-30th in the FRC Smokey Mountains Regional robotic competition. This event was held at the Knoxville Convention Center with competitors from a nine state area and attended bymore than 3,000 roaring spectators. Sun, 14 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/113.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/113.html In order to strip skin off the backs of low income workers making less than $15,415 a year (2012 dollars), Governor Haslam refused to accept $730.7 million from the feds, $730.7 million to supply TennCare to 144,500 low income Tennesseans in 2014. Using CBO estimates, a low earner at 100-133-percent of poverty who puts ‘skin in the game’ purchasing private ‘exchange’ insurance in 2014, will pay 2-percent of premiums plus copays and deductibles, more than $180 a year. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/112.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/112.html Some 47 Baptist ministers and an Oak Ridge business man and religious leader say we need “In God We Trust” signs displayed on all four faces of our Anderson County courthouse. A majority of Anderson County Commissioners have agreed, and decided by their vote to honor the minister’s requests. In response to our constituents, a minority of Commissioners like myself are asking for a compromise on the type of signs, and the methods on how this should be accomplished. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/111.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/111.html Call me old-fashioned. Call me excitable. But as the old saying goes, “Don’t call me late for dinner.” If I were a poker player I’d bet my kidneys against a flush or pair of … Kidneys? And wouldn’t mind if I won or lost. I miss my tennis partner. I miss my gym. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/110.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/110.html Anderson County’s Commissioner of Elections Mark Stephens unveiled plans recently on a proposal he will formally present at the Monday, April 8, Operations Committee requesting a new, expanded office space for the election commission offices. The election commission offices are currently located in a cramped space on the second floor of the Anderson County Courthouse. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/109.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/109.html Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank has issued her first veto as Mayor in attempts to stymie a resolution approved by county commission last month requesting the state’s General Assembly enact a Private Act establishing authority over Anderson County Government personnel. The Mayor’s move to discredit the motion will not stop the item from reaching the state legislature, says Commission Chairman Chuck Fritts (Dist. 1). “That veto is useless,” Fritts remarked. “You can’t veto a administrative decision and she knows that.” Sun, 07 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/108.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/04/108.html A longtime Anderson County Commissioner is suggesting compromise in an effort to appease all parties regarding the Commission’s controversial February vote to inscribe the nation’s motto - “In God We Trust” - above all four entrances of the historical Anderson County Courthouse. The raging “In God We Trust” debate that has penetrated every corner of the county and gained regional news coverage has created an unnecessary and unhealthy divide among the county’s citizens and the officials elected to represent them, says Dist. 8 Commissioner Myron Iwanski. Sun, 07 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/107.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/107.html Anderson County’s three sitting judges issued a blistering rebuttal this week to recently resigned Alternatives to Incarceration Director Mike Baker’s letter of resignation printed last week in the Courier-News. The judges openly question Baker’s knowledge of the law and maintain that it was actually he who refused to cooperate during his approximately one year on the job. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/106.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/106.html I would like to say Thank You to I-75 Auto Parts for the generosity showed during a recent training class. They allowed me to use vehicles on the property for the purpose of educating firefighters on the techniques of removing patients entrapped in a wrecked vehicle. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/105.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/105.html Our family, living here in Clinton, wishes to give our thanks and appreciation to all who were involved in the correct diagnosis of my husband’s recent back problem. Its called “Piriformis Syndrome” of the joint and muscles, frequently misdiagnosed as a disc problem. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/104.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/104.html I read with interest the letter from Richard Burroughs in which he lists numerous pious references in support of County Commission attaching signage to the court house proclaiming “In God we trust.” Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/103.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/103.html Clintonian Natalie Bible’s first feature film, “Windsor Drive,” will premier at The Ritz Theater in Clinton April 20. Bible, a 2002 graduate of Clinton High School, is bringing Hollywood home. “I love the community,” she said when asked why she wanted the premier of her first film in Clinton. “It’s just a little way I can give back.” The film, “Windsor Drive,” is about “A mentally unstable actor with a tumultuous past, River Miller, who moves to Los Angeles with the hope of landing the lead role in the remake of a Hollywood classic.” There will be two showings April 20; at 6 and 8 p.m. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/102.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/102.html Johnny Pridemore was never the type to seek recognition or acclaim. Being honored for doing what comes natural to him never entered Pridemore’s conscience. So when Susan Bowling, the Executive Director of the Anderson County Community Action, informed Pridemore recently that he was being saluted for his years of volunteerism in Anderson County, Pridemore initially shrugged it off and went about his daily routine. Pridemore, 65, was among several area residents honored for their Good Samarian work by the American Red Cross at a Tuesday, March 19, ceremony in Oak Ridge. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/101.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/101.html Good stories need happy endings. Take the story of Leslie Argo, Barbara Verhust, and Jane Barrenger. Theirs has a little of everything: history, emotions, chance, redemption, reunion. They are half-sisters, separated by time and another world, a world they learned about as they learned about each other. Argo, who lives in Andersonville, and is the front end manager at Food City in Clinton, lived with her birth mother in Baumholder, Germany, for three years before being put up for adoption. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/100.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/100.html The area’s top law enforcement officers converged at the Anderson County Detention Facility Tuesday afternoon, March 26, to announce federal indictments on 42 individuals charged with distributing methamphetamine in and around Anderson County. William Killian, the U.S. Attorney for Tennessee’s Eastern District, indicated the indictments stemmed from a conspiracy that various local, state and federal law enforcement agencies have been tracking for almost a decade. The vast majority of the suspects, said Killian, are already in state or federal custody. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/99.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/99.html After attending the Anderson County Commission meetings and listening to the commissioners who are in opposition of installing “In God We Trust” on the Anderson County Court House, namely, Robin Biloski, Whitey Hitchcock, Jerry Creasey and Myron Iwanski, and reading the letters to the editor, I have come to a conclusion about those in opposition to this effort. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/98.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/98.html In 1990, the Tennessee Legislature passed a law requiring school board members to have a High School Diploma or GED. Prior to 1990, all that was required was little more than the ability to “fog a mirror.” A lot has changed since the 1990’s, including the responsibilities of school board members, which are ever expanding. After spending two years on the House Education Committee, I have come to realize how complex and advanced educating our children can be. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/97.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/97.html In a letter penned by Mr Richard Burroughs described only as of Anderson County, I presume that this is the one and same Richard Burroughs who is Anderson County Mayor’s Chief of Staff. I would hope that this historical theological drivel was not penned during office hours or using our public resources. Assuming that Mr. Burroughs fully supports using our courthouse as a billboard for our nations motto and seeks to bolster and justify the favored inscription with his personal historical views, let him identify himself fully and state whether he is speaking for himself and/or as a surrogate for the County Mayor. Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/96.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/96.html Anderson County’s first-ever Alternatives to Incarceration Director Mike Baker says he decided to fall on the sword this week in the name of progress and cooperation. Baker sent County Commissioners and Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank his letter of resignation on Thursday afternoon, informing the county officials that his final day would be April 4. Baker says a lack of support from key officials is the primary reason he’s stepping aside. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/95.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/95.html Janice Johnson of ETHRA Senior Nutrition Program accepts a $500 donation from Clinton AARP Chapter 2461 President Carolyn Martin to the agency’s Meals on Wheels Senior Nutrition Program. The agency is facing a 5-percents cut in funding. Martin and AARP Chapter 2461 have callenged other civic organizations to match the club’s donation. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/94.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/94.html Students at Clinton Elementary got to celebrate the end of a successful fundraiser by enjoying a limo ride and lunch at McDonalds. The school raised approximately $18,000 during their most recent fundraiser. The staff and students at Clinton Elementary would like to extend a huge thank you to all the members of this community who made this fundraiser so profitable. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/93.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/93.html Music Arts held a recital in February at West Village Christian Church in Oak Ridge, showcasing the musical talents of students and instructors. Students played the cello, piccolo, flute, and piano. Students participating included Sam Neary, Catherine Albert, Melody Guo, Eli Ferguson, Atticus Harris, D.J. Roberts, Joseph LaFreniere, Kelsey LaFreniere, Bonnie Moon, and Melody Simmons. Instructors are Jodi Harbin (mandolin, banjo, piano, flute), Andy Bryenton (cello), and Lois White (flute). Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/92.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/92.html Clinton’s MaKenzie Wilson, 9, won big at the Centennial Classic Gymnastic meet in Atlanta in February. She had a clean sweep with first place finishes on beam, floor, vault and bar routines. She also took first place in the “all around” category. Wilson is a gymnast with Premier Athletics in North Knoxville. She is the daughter of Adam and Rebekah Wilson of Clinton. She is the granddaughter of Paul and Gail Vandergriff of Clinton and Abe and Rebecca Wilson of Lake City. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/91.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/91.html Dear Madame Mayor, Honorable Commissioners of Anderson County and Advisory Board members: With great reluctance and much deliberation I have decided to resign from my position with Anderson County. My last day of service will be April 4, 2013. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/90.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/90.html Today (Wednesday, March 20, 2013), Anderson County Government celebrated its first ever Anderson County Purchasing Day. Purchasing Agent Pamela Cotham, Deputy Purchasing Agent Karen Whaley, Purchasing Clerk Genia Petty and part-time clerk Shaynne Thompson welcomed county government officials and employees to visit the Purchasing Department throughout the day to receive a “Purchasing Kiss” ñ chocolate candy kisses ñ and learn a little about purchasing laws. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/89.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/89.html EDITOR: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights . . . This “Creator” is referred to four times in the Declaration of Independence. It is clear our Founding Fathers put their hope and faith in something much larger and more trustworthy than their own individual opinions. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/88.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/88.html In conjunction with National Kick Butts Day, the Allies for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) of Anderson County brought the fight against tobacco use to county middle schools last week. On Monday, representatives of ASAP and students from Anderson County and Clinton High Schools addressed the dangers of all forms of tobacco. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/87.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/87.html Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank (right) stands alongside the family of deceased local war hero Private Louis M. Allison on Monday, March 18, during a ceremony in which Frank and Anderson County Veterans Affairs Coordinator Leon Jaquet presented the Purple Heart to Private Allison’s widow, Mrs.. Cecil Allison (second from right) as Claude Martin (rear) looks on. Allison was awarde his medals posthumously for valor while serving the United States for 12 months in Austria, Czechoslovakia and Germany. “Private Allison was instrumental in destroying an enemy position and assisted in capturing and holding of the enemy personnel.” During that period of battle Allison sustained wounds as a result of enemy action in Germany. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/86.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/86.html Curtis Isabell (right) was unanimously elected by Clinton City Council to fill the remaining term of R.C. Hutchins as the Ward 2 Clinton Board of Education representative Monday night during council’s monthly meeting. Next to Isabell is Clinton Board of Education Chairman Dr. Tim Bible. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/85.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/85.html As Tennessee hunters prepare for the beckoning of turkey season this weekend, local motorists should take heed as well. The Anderson County Sheriff’s Department responded to a report on Tuesday evening, March 12, of a “flying turkey” crashing through the window of a vehicle traveling on Clinton Highway near Bull Run Road in the Claxton community. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/84.html http://www.hometownclinton.com/articles/2013/03/84.html The Anderson County Commission is asking state legislators to ratify a long-held method of operation that County Mayor Terry Frank is calling into question as unlawful. Commission voted 13-2 on Monday, March 18, to approve a motion asking the the state’s General Assembly to establish a Private Act establishing into law the procudures for the creation of new Anderson County government departments, abolishing existing departments or the removal of department heads. Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST