WLAF takes you back through the year 2018 for the next few days as 2018 winds down.  Today, we return to some of the stories that made news here in Campbell County during the months of April, May and June of this year.

TOP PHOTO:  The Campbell County Sheriff’s Department’s  K-9 Mya, with her partner Corporal Wayne Barton, indicated a positive response to the truck.  It was Mya’s first find.  The story is the last story on this page.

Highway Department and LUB working on road slide-water outage – April 1, 2018

A Sunday mud slide has closed a portion of Duff Road.  At Catula Road and the Big Brick Church here in Campbell County is where authorities says the slide is.  As a result, according to LUB officials, it has knocked out the main water feed line to residents of Stinking Creek.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Budget Inn bust Sunday night –April 1, 2018

Just before 9 pm on Sunday, April 1, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team executed a narcotics search warrant at the Budget Host Inn on Wood Lane at Caryville. Investigators with the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and 8th Judicial Drug Task, prior to the execution of the search warrant, conducted undercover operations by purchasing crystal methamphetamine from people at Motel Room 19 at the Budget Host Inn. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Kemper Coker’s team wins the national title – April 3, 2018

WLAF and Big Creek Market’s “Final Four Fun Run” has come to a close.  Kemper Coker’s team, the Villanova Wildcats, won it all after last night’s 79 to 62 win over Michigan.

By Villanova making the Sweet 16, Coker won a sausage biscuit from Big Creek Market, and then a three-piece lunch box after the Wildcats made the Final Four.  Winning the title gets her $65 from WLAF as part of WLAF’s 65th year celebration.

Congratulations, Kemper!  Thanks for playing along. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED 12/27/2018-6AM)

Habitat ribbon cutting was today – April 5, 2018

The Habitat for Humanity Resale Store officially joined the Campbell County Chamber of Commerce this morning.  Chamber Director Christie Elkins headed up the ribbon cutting.  The Habitat Store is next door to Common Ground at Stop Light 8. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Duff is now a Drug Recognition Expert – April 8, 2018

Veteran police officer Charles Duff is the first to complete an internationally acclaimed drug training program.  In its efforts to continually battle the drug problem, La Follette Chief of Police Bill Roehl is proud to announce that Sgt. Charles Duff has successfully completed the Drug Recognition Program through the Tennessee Highway Safety Office.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

First Women’s Expo is a success – April 7, 2018

The Empowering Women Expo was a success on Saturday. Over 300 people visited the 50 vendors that lined the halls at the Woodson’s Mall- Food City Center. With door prizes, products available for purchase and information on community organizations on hand the event offered something for everyone.

(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Cox is named coach of the Cougars – April 9, 2018

Former Cougar wants to revive CCHS Basketball

WLAF Sports has just learned that Campbell County High School Director of Athletics Sherry Chapman has named Darrell Cox as the new head coach of the CCHS Boys Basketball Program.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Cooper stops running long enough to sign with ETSU – April 10, 2018

The record setting Cougar will run for the Bucs

By Pat Pebley

If ever Bruce Springsteen’s hit “Born To Run” applied to anyone it would be Gavin Cooper. Well before his high school days, Cooper was dominating distance running.  When he finally arrived on campus at CCHS, he stepped into his high school running events immediately and began a dominating four-year journey.

The distance specialist has dominated many cross country events, everything from the 800 to 3200 meter events in track and even outside events like the annual Cove Lake 5K race.  He has been so good that he was nominated as one of the most dominant athletes in any sport in the PrepXtra area.

Now Cooper will run on to the next level. The Cougar will sign the papers to trade the Blue and Orange for the Blue and Gold of East Tennessee State University.  He will sign this morning to become a Buc in a 10 am ceremony in the Commons at Campbell County High School. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

La Follette man’s first book is published – April 12, 2018

Jerry Kidd has just published his first book, “The Lynching.” It is based on the true story of Jerome Boyatt from the community of No Business, Tennessee, on the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River.

The book is available on Amazon.com. You can search “The Lynching” or the author “Jerry Kidd” to find the historical novel. The book is available in Kindle and as a paperback. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

CCSD, DTF and TBI put a lid on The Pop Shop – April 13, 2018

Cash for pops biz loses its fizz

The elephant that’s been sitting alongside the four lane in the City of La Follette was finally caught this afternoon.  Countless complaints of people driving in droves to the dusty little yellow building in La Follette were finally answered on Friday.

Sheriff Robbie Goins and the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department along with the Drug Task Force and the TBI worked together to shutdown the shady business that is accused of swapping cash for soft drinks and cigarettes.  According to Goins, these items were purchased with EBT cards and then turned in for cash at The Pop Shop.  He adds that pot was also sold out of the store.

During today’s raid that culminated after months of undercover work and the execution of a search, three key players in the operation, Goins says, were on hand at the store.  They are Jimmie Ivey, Jennifer Brown, and Joe Bolinger.  The sheriff says Ivey owns the store, Brown works there, and Bolinger is involved.  Bolinger is Vice-Mayor for the City of La Follette and is also listed as the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor for La Follette Utilities on the LUB website.

Goins says that no arrests were made today, but that indictments on Ivey, Brown, and Bolinger are in the works.

The sheriff says, “People are fed up with this (the illegal activities).  I have been getting numerous calls weekly about this.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Caldwell breaks two records.  Eyes another. – April 15, 2018

18-year old record falls

Last week, La Follette Middle School runner Macy Caldwell broke two records.  On April 9, Caldwell broke one of her own records.  The LMS 1600 meter mark of 5:35 was broken by Caldwell two seasons ago.  It stood until she shattered it by a full six-seconds at 5:29 in a meet at Anderson County.

On Thursday at Oak Ridge, she broke Lady Owl Jennifer Vincent’s record in the 3200 meter.  The old record was 12:22.  Caldwell’s new standard is 12:20.  Vincent’s record time stood for 18-years.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Cancer Association telethon a success – April 14, 2018

Raised more than $35,000

Saturday night’s annual Campbell County Cancer Association telethon on WLAF was a hit.  At the West End Community Center aka the West La Follette School, the CCCA raised $35,630.31.

Lots of local entertainers performed.  Mason T. and Carl Capps opened the evening.  Vanessa Dupuy and Bobbie Archer sang as well.  Tribute also graced the Dottie Rogers Stage.  Second Chance, the group with the most members, performed in the 8 pm hour.  Closing out the evening was New Harvest.  New Harvest celebrates its 30th year this month.

CCCA Treasurer Clarence Lowe tells WLAF, “Traditionally, we have more donations dropped off at our office the week after the telethon.  So, that total will likely increase.”  The office is in the West End Community Center.  If you would like to donate, please mail your check to the CCCA, P.O. Box 122, Jacksboro, Tennessee 37757. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Caryville’s new unit goes into service – April 16, 2018

On Friday, Caryville Fire Department Chief Eddie Hatmaker and his department put their new rescue truck into service. It’s a 2017 Ford 450 4 x 4. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Yager announces $1-million plus grant for Campbell County Schools – April 18, 2018

Earmarked for GEAR UP

Senator Ken Yager (R-Kingston) announced today that Campbell County schools are receiving $1,158,710 as part of the U.S. Department of Education’s Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) TN grant, which aims to increase the number of low-income students in Tennessee who are accessing and succeeding in higher education. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Big night for LMS Track and Field – April 19, 2018

Caldwell breaks record.  Five Lady Owls medal.

Coach Greg Vincent’s La Follette Middle School Track and Field team had quite a showing on Wednesday night at the Christian Academy of Knoxville.  Out of 20 participating teams, the Lady Owls placed second in the overall rankings.  Along the way, five Lady Owls medaled with two medaling twice.

Erica Brock took first place in the discus and second place in the shot put while Macy Caldwell won the 800 meter run and placed 2nd in the 1600.  Madison Johnson claimed second place in the high jump.  Elsewhere, Alivia Marlow took third in the 100 meter hurdles as Haylynn Willis placed 3rd in the high jump.  CLICK HERE to see the photo gallery.

Caldwell crossed the finish line in the 800 meter run at CAK with a new LMS record of 2:31 besting the previous mark of 2:32.

Coach Vincent tells WLAF, “We are very proud of our athletes.  Our team is turning up the intensity as we get closer to the post season.  They are consistently creating new personal records.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

WWII vet passes – April 19, 2018

Williams was also a Shriner

Mack Williams died yesterday.  He served the U-S in the Army during World War II and was an active member of the community.  Williams career was spent as an agent with American General Life Insurance Company.  He was also a Mason and a member of Campbell County Masonic Lodge #778 F&AM.

Williams will be laid to rest Saturday afternoon with a receiving of family and friends at 3 pm at Walters Funeral Home.  Mack Williams was 93-years old. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

CCHS Greenhouse opens for the season this morning – April 23, 2018

8:30 am until 5 pm on the Jacksboro side

The Campbell County High School Greenhouse officially opens this morning at 8:30 am.  Flower and vegetable seeds grown by CCHS students are now on sale on the Jacksboro side of the school.

CCHS Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor Eric Reynolds effortlessly rattles off the selection; Better Boys, Cherry Tomatoes, probably close to three or four thousand Marglobe Tomotaoes, California Wonder and Red Bell Peppers, Burpless and Bush Cucumbers, Ambrosia Cantaloupe, and Crimson Sweet Watermelon.(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Campbell County sees upswing in children born drug dependent – April 23, 2018

‘Number 1 in our region’ – Michelle Lynch, CC Health Department

In recent years, Campbell County has shot to third in the nation in terms of people addicted to opioids.

Campbell County also has another distinct statistic – in the last five years the number of infants born dependent on opioids has increased 46 percent, according to information provided by the Campbell County Health Department.

“We are number one in our region of 15 counties” when  it comes  to children born dependent on the pain killers, Michelle Lynch, a nurse at the Campbell County Health Department said.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Mary was a natural at the counter – April 25, 2018

At Winklers, The Globe, and Riggs

Mary’s friendly gift of gab and ability to run a grill was a winning combo.  If you were ever at Winkler’s Drug Store or The Globe Drug Store or Riggs Drug, you knew Mary.  Though you may not have known her last name.  She was Mary Wilson.

Sad to say, but we lost Mary on Tuesday.

Her last grill gig was when the big Riggs had its grill.  And that was quite a few years ago.

It was at the Riggs grill when she told me that Harold Branam, one of her brothers, had always wanted to be on the radio.  And that he loved bluegrass music.  Sure enough, WLAF had an opening.  Saturday mornings on its bluegrass music program.  That next Saturday, Harold was on the air and stayed for more than 20-years.

In addition to being a favorite at the grills around town, the Lady Vols were a favorite of hers.  All toll Mary worked for more than a combined 50-years at the three drug store grills.

Mary Branam Wilson was 87-years old. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Forks Grove celebrates 70-years – April 25, 2018

It was Sunday, April 4, 1948.  That’s when Glade Springs Missionary Baptist Church founded and organized Forks Grove Missionary Baptist Church.  On Sunday morning, Pastor Ronnie Poston and the congregation of FGMBC celebrate the church’s 70th anniversary.  Reverend Steve Ross brings the message at 11 am.  Fellowship and meal follow the service.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Lady Cougar dugout named for Rutherford today – April 27, 2018

5:30 pm at Chapman Field

Ahead of the Lady Cougars game with Jellico, Campbell County’s home dugout  will be named for Coach Steve Rutherford.  The beloved coach and educator passed away last year.

One of the many lives the former Cougar Head Football and Softball Coach touched was that of current Lady Cougar Softball Coach Rebecca Mongar.  She calls Rutherford, “A great man, and adds that it was a blessing to know him, play for him as a student athlete, be in his class as a student, work under him as a teacher at Valley View Elementary School and coach with him.“  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Delinquent tax auction brings more than $200K – May 4, 2018

Held Friday at the Court House

Campbell County held its annual delinquent property tax sale on Friday and a courtroom filled with bidders purchased the majority of properties that were offered. Clerk and Master Dennis Potter tells WLAF that total collections on 71 parcels was $204,801.16.

Potter explains that Campbell County does a good job of collecting taxes.  However, Friday’s annual auction is a way to collect what little outstanding property tax dollars remain.

Those properties that were sold on Friday had to receive at least a minimum bid representing the overdue taxes, penalties and interest.  Potter adds that the annual auction requires a lot of preparation.

The remainder of the sales amount is the “overbid” and by law goes to the original owners of the delinquent property. The original owners also have a one-year grace period to redeem their property for the amount owed to the county or city, but must also pay the successful bidder a ten percent fee on the bid price. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

CHET’s Down and Derby was fun all around – May 5, 2018

Proceeds go toward $3.3 million note

It was a good time had by all on Saturday evening at ClaiHill Farm in east La Follette.  Community Health of East Tennessee (CHET) hosted its 4th annual Down and Derby event on the first Saturday of May.  From watching the Kentucky Derby to music and dancing to dinner and a huge auction, it was a fun night.  It was likely the largest turnout yet at the annual gathering.  Proceeds go toward CHET’s 3.3-million dollar note on its new building on Independence Lane in La Follette.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Yager announces $50,000 coming to old post office – May 7, 2018

   Money for this project available on July 1

The City of La Follette will receive $50,000 to preserve the historic La Follette Post Office under an appropriation amendment added to the state budget at the request of Senator Ken Yager (R-Kingston).  The legislation, which also passed the House of Representatives, is set to become law upon the signature of Governor Bill Haslam.

The La Follette Post Office is in need of a new roof and restored windows. The first $50,000 grant from ECD will cover the cost of a new roof, but funding was still needed to properly restore the windows.  The budget appropriation will help the structure meet the criteria in order to have it placed on the National Register of Historic Places. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Kitts to be honored for 50-years today at LMC – May 7, 2018

‘Brenda Kitts is a joy.’ – Mark Cain, La Follette Medical Center CEO

Tiny on size.  But big on everything else; especially her smile.  That might sum Brenda Kitts up in a nutshell.  A real small nutshell.

Kitts, along with many other La Follette Medical Center and La Follette Nursing Home personnel, is being honored this afternoon as part of “Medical Center” week at LMC and LNH.  The friendly Kitts, who is barely four and a half-feet tall, stands tall among today’s honorees.  This year marks her 50th year at the hospital.

“Brenda Kitts is a joy. She believes in doing her job and doing well, as importantly she believes in being friendly and kind to everyone around her,” said Mark Cain, CEO of the La Follette Medical Center.

Her career began when Dr. John Pryse, the Kitts family physician, was tending to her papaw in the summer of 1968.  Adron Kitts was in the hospital and told Pryse that Brenda had an interview later that day at the hospital.  Pryse quipped, “What can she do?”  Pappaw Adron shot back, “She can do anything!”

In short time, Doc escorted Brenda to Jane Joslin’s office gave her a glowing recommendation.  Joslin, the director of nursing, hired Kitts on the spot.  “And I’ve been here ever since,” said Kitts.

Bess Stout is the human resources director for LMC and calls Brenda, “One in a million.”

Kitts, a 1996 graduate of Wynn High School, started as a ward clerking at the west nurses station and held that position for 22-years.  There she did all the paperwork and wrote doctors’ orders.  She says, “I like people.  You’ve got to know people and get along with people and do the right thing.”

From the nurses’ station, Kitts moved over to the engineering department where she remained for the next 18-years.  She was the secretary there in an otherwise all-male crew.

It was in 2008 when Brenda moved again.  These days, she’s a cashier for the hospital cafeteria.  She’s quick to say, “I have no intentions of quitting.”

The active 70-year old calls La Follette Medical Center “home.”  She notes, “This is a great place for me, and I’ve enjoyed it thoroughly.  She adds that everyone, especially the doctors, have been so great.”  And she’s worked closely with the doctors.

Kitts has seen a lot of changes in her 50-years.  The building of the nursing home, a complete change to the emergency room, a bigger lab.  The list goes on.

From 2 pm to 4 pm today, the public is invited to the hospital’s annual service awards reception.  That’s in the hospital dining room.  Here’s a complete list of the others who will be recognized today along with Kitts.

Cain sums up Kitts in a nutshell, a very small nutshell.  “After 50 years, she’s put a lot of smiles on a lot of faces including mine. We should all be a little more like Brenda.”  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

JMS Eagles headed to the state golf tournament – May 8, 2018

One Lady Eagle to play for an individual state title

Using the word dominate still feels inadequate in describing Jacksboro’s 35-stroke victory on Tuesday.  The Jacksboro Eagle Golf Team claimed yesterday’s region championship at Three Ridges Golf Course at Knoxville.  Jack Leach took second place while David Bates was third in leading the Eagles to the crown.  Now.  It’s on to that state championship to be played at Green Meadows Country Club at Maryville.

Though the Lady Eagles did not qualify for the state field as a team, Sadie Cox finished second overall on Tuesday.  She’s on her way to an individual spot in the state championship field. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Goerss new book on Deerfield debuts – May 9, 2018

Signing is today

Dr. Betty Goerss and her family were some of the earliest to live at what was a developing Deerfield Resort back in the mid-1980s.  Goerss has gathered stories and history of the 30+ year old development here in Campbell County on Norris Lake and is sharing those with us in a new book.

This afternoon at 2 pm at the La Follette Library, Goerss is selling and signing her new work, Dream of Field – Our Deerfield Stories.  The library is on South 9th Street in La Follette.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Cumberland Gap Medical celebrates this morning – May 9, 2018

Hosting its grand reopening

You’re invited to Cumberland Gap Medical’s grand reopening this morning at its La Follette office.  CGM is now open in its new location on East Central Avenue in La Follette at stop light 10.  That’s at North Cumberland Avenue.  Celebration hours run from 8 am until noon. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Governor to visit Campbell County in July – May 9, 2018

Roane State campus

It’s been a long, long time in the making.  But the Roane State Campbell County campus will soon be officially opening its new all-purpose lab.  So, perhaps it’s only fitting that the governor plans to be on hand for the ribbon cutting this summer.  Because it was through the efforts of Representative Dennis Powers and Senator Ken Yager that Governor Bill Haslam was sold on the idea a few years back and gave the OK for funds to be earmarked for the new lab.

Fittingly, Haslam, along with Powers and Yager, will be on hand for the Thursday, July 5 ribbon cutting.  An exact time is yet to be set.

The lab will be open for students to use starting with the Fall of ’18 semester.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Sheets celebrates five-years in Campbell County – May 10, 2018

Ribbon cutting this morning

There’s a ribbon cutting this morning at 11am at Edward Jones – Financial Advisor: Zach Sheets office. You’re invited to join in the celebration of Sheets fifth year in business and also stay for lunch via Edward Jones’ Pizza Club.   Edward Jones Investments is located at 102 North Massachusetts Ave. in La Follette just over the hill from the hospital.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Yager’s increased Medicaid funding is signed into law – May 10, 2018

Legislation to increase funding for ambulance services

Legislation sponsored by Senator Ken Yager (R-Kingston) that continues the Ambulance Service Provider Assessment Act has been signed into law by Governor Bill Haslam. This law allows the state to receive additional Medicaid funds to be distributed to local private and public ambulance services for transporting patients covered by the program.

“This legislation has proven beneficial over the last year, and I look forward to seeing the increase quality of care continue as a result of our action on this bill,” added Yager. .  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Good night for local runners at Knoxville – May 10, 2018

Caldwell and Faulkner do well

Macy Caldwell smoked Knoxville Thursday night.  She won the 1600 and the 800 in two great races. At the big invitational meet at Hardin Valley Academy.  More school records fell.  Riley Faulkner also looked great.  Both are middle schoolers.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Longtime school board member passes – May 13, 2018

Homer Rutherford served five terms on the BOE

Whether it was during his career at the La Follette Medical Center or time on the school board, Homer Rutherford served the community with a smile.  The tall man who helped so many through his life died on Sunday night.

Ironically, Rutherford died on the same date as one of his brothers.  It was 50-years ago Sunday when his brother J.C. passed away.

Homer Rutherford was 78-years old.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Bruce attends last school safety meeting – May 14, 2018

The old coach is retiring

By Captain Josh Goins

On Monday morning, Sheriff Robbie K. Goins recognized Coach Johnny Bruce at the monthly School Safety Meeting for his selfless service to our community.  The sheriff thanked Bruce for closely working with law enforcement to ensure the safety of students in Campbell County.

Sheriff Goins stated, “Coach Bruce has dedicated forty years of service to our county.  He exemplifies public service, and as an educator, he has molded and guided so many students to success.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

USPS Food Drive total tops last year’s – May 13, 2018

Everyone at the La Follette Post Office agrees that Saturday’s food drive collected more pounds than in recent years.  Area Food Drive Coordinator DeWayne Kitts was impressed with this year’s turnout.  Kitts tells WLAF that, “This community always amazes me.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Temps are up snug 90-degrees again today – May 14, 2018

Keep yourself safe

After a chilly April, May is heating up quickly.  With temps hovering around 90-degrees again today, practicing heat safety wherever you are is a good idea.

(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Five Lady Owls and an Owl are headed to state – May 15, 2018

Will compete in the State Meet May 19

La Follette Middle School will be well represented at the 2018 State Meet.  With 16 participating teams, the LMS Lady Owls placed second, as a team, in the Upper East Tennessee Sectional Track Meet last Saturday at Daniel Boone High School at Gray.
Coach Greg Vincent tells WLAF, “LMS had six athletes to qualify and advance to the State Meet which will be held on Saturday, May 19, at Austin Peay University in Clarksville. The top four finishers in each event advanced.
For LMS, Macy Caldwell was the first place winner in both the 1600 meter run and the 800 meter run.  Hayllynn Willis was the second place finisher in the high jump while Erica Brock finished in second place in the shot put and 3rd in the discus.  Bailey Gillum took third in the 400 meter dash.
The girls 4×400 meter relay team placed third, sending it on to the state meet as well. That team of runners consists of Caldwell, Bailey Gillum, Madison Johnson and Willis.
For the Owls, Josh Phillips placed third in the 400 meter dash.  Phillips is also on his way to State. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

CCHS has fifty-three 4.0 students – May 15, 2018

Senior Awards Night was last night

It was a night to applaud academic accomplishments for Campbell County Seniors last night.  The crowd of onlookers filled every seat in the CCHS Auditorium, stood along the walls, and spilled out into the lobby.

The night featured academic all-stars from CCHS that featured 53 students with 4.0 grade point averages.  Five Eagle Scouts are also part of the Class of ’18.     Graduation is Saturday, May 26, 10 am, at Tex Turner Arena on the LMU campus at Harrogate.  There will be live televised coverage over WLAF-TV 12 and 1450wlaf.com. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

WLAF turns 65-years old today – May 17, 2018

Join the celebration tonight at East Gate Center

In the early 1950s, a handful of local leaders thought it was time La Follette and the south side of Campbell County had a radio station.  Ed Wheeler, Sr., and Ed Balloff were two of the original investors in WLAF.  The station signed on the air on Sunday afternoon, May 17, 1953.

A future highly successful businessman, Hack Ayers, then a student at Jacksboro High School, also played a key role as did the retired Charlie Woods.  Ayers took his tractor and dug the trench line from the studio in the Fleet Building to the tower a stone’s throw up North 5th Street.  Woods helped Wheeler with a lot of the studio set up and ended up helping at the station in other ways during its early days.

Ayers still jokes to this day that he was never paid.  He says he’s been waiting for the station to call him to tell him it’s OK to go ahead and cash the check.

WLAF wants the community to celebrate the occasion this evening.

On Thursday beginning at 6 pm, WLAF will open the doors at The Party Place, next to La Follette Middle School, for an evening of food and the music that “started it all.”

“We wanted to have all local talent with music that started it all,” said Bill Waddell, WLAF co- owner. “We are going back in time.”

The music Waddell referred to is Bluegrass and Gospel. At 6 pm, New River Rising will open the festivities with a 50 minute set. They will be followed by Mason T. and Carl Capps at 7pm; New Harvest will open the last hour at 8 pm.

Throughout the evening pizza and drinks will be available at no charge.

In 1953, WLAF came on the air for the first time, according to Waddell. “It was a really big event then. There wasn’t a radio station in Campbell County at the time,” he said.

The closest stations were in Oak Ridge and Middlesboro, KY, which meant the county had no way to get up to the minute news.

In 1975, Waddell started working at WLAF as an announcer and salesman. He left in 1982 only to return seven years later. That is when he and Jim Stair bought WLAF. Stair was the man responsible for putting other radio stations on the air in the region.

Together, they grew the station adding local and collegiate sports announcer and Knoxville TV personality Jim Freeman to the lineup.

Waddell is humbled with the growth and success WLAF has seen through the years.

“I never dreamed we would have an FM (station) and for the website to be what it is… the county depends on it,” Waddell said.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Former Cougar Cain is recognized – May 31, 2018

On Thursday, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics announced the 411 baseball student-athletes who have been named 2018 Daktronics-NAIA Baseball Scholar-Athletes, and five Bryan College Lions consisting of Tucker Cain (JR/Lebanon, Tenn.), Kurt Meeberg (JR/Edmonton, Alberta), Timothy Hostetler, Caleb Perez, and Cullen Royston made the cut. In order to be nominated by an institution’s sports information director, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade-point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved junior academic status. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Today is “Gwen Patterson Day” in La Follette – June 6, 2018

La Follette Mayor Mike Stanfield has declared today “Gwen Patterson Day” in La Follette.

Patterson has spent more than half her life at Terry’s Pharmacy.  And today is her last official day working at the pharmacy where she started back in 1977.    (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Cougars to play on Shields-Watkins Field – June 6, 2018

UT has lifted its ban on using Shields-Watkins Field.  And that’s good news.  Especially for the Campbell County High School Cougars and their fans.

Cougar Head Coach Justin Price tells WLAF News, “We are excited that our players get to experience one of the premier venues in all of college football.”  CCHS is one of 16 teams that will play on the legendary field on Friday, August 10.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

BOE member Orick passes Tuesday night – June 5, 2018

The news of the sudden passing of Campbell County School Board Member Mike Orick traveled fast last night.  The call to E-911 came in at 8:13 pm Tuesday night of a death at a home on Harmony Drive at Jacksboro.

Orick represented the fourth district for the board of education for many years.  He also served as chairman of the board on at least two different occasions.

(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Child found on road in middle of the night – June 6, 2018

A four-year old boy was found in the middle of the four lane near the hospital around 3 am Wednesday morning in La Follette.  Mayor Mike Stanfield tells WLAF that he assisted LPD Officers James Farmer and James Foxx along with Campbell County Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Vann in trying to find the child’s parents.  The Mayor says soon they awoke a worried mother at a home near where the youngster was found.  He adds that the child is autistic and has a genius IQ, and his mother said that he keeps figuring out how to get out of the house.  Stanfield says that this could have been a really bad situation, but that a motorist spotted the child, called 911, and stayed with the kid until the police arrived.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Lobertini lands iPads for her entire classroom – June 10, 2018

Persistence.  A little luck.  And some good hearted people.  It all came together recently for La Follette Middle School 8th grade math teacher, Olivia Lobertini.

Through a written request to DonorsChoose.org, she was able to receive two iPads.  And that was great.  But she needed 26 more to have one for everyone of her students.  Lobertini figured if she could at least come up with half of the 28, it would be a step in the right direction.

When retired United Airline Pilot Dale Bruskotter closed on his Sugar Hollow Lake home this spring, he sent word to Olivia to come to the closing.  He presented the young woman he calls an angel with a check for a thousand dollars.  Lobertini told him the money was going toward buying two more iPads for her classroom and explained her plan and progress.

Bruskotter surmised that from here, it was a long, long way to 28 iPads.  He quietly went to work calling in a few favors from some of his old United Airlines contacts and securing help from United’s “United in the Community” charitable partnership arm.  In the end, he came away with 24 more iPads.

Needless to say, life and learning will be dramatically different in Classroom 406 come August.  The ecstatic Lobertini can’t wait.

There will be a presentation ceremony of the iPads from Bruskotter, on behalf of United Airlines, Wednesday, June 13, at 10 am at the Campbell County Board of Education Central Office at Jacksboro.  The public is invited to attend.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Cowboy calls it a career – June 18, 2018

He has served his country.  He has served his county.  And now, K-9 Officer Cowboy is calling it a career.

What a career!  Two tours in Afghanistan as a Marine Corp bomb detection dog were followed by almost five-years as a member of the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department.

Cowboy’s partner, K-9 Officer Jeremy Goins, recalls a lot of good times together along with working lots of cases together. One memorable highlight is when Goins and Cowboy were a part of President’s Trump detail on his last visit to Knoxville.

Cowboy’s legacy lives on at the CCSD.  Three new dogs, Santo, Mya, and Daisy, are carrying on the tradition.

Goins describes Cowboy’s retirement as bittersweet and heart breaking.  Though there is an upside in that Cowboy will continue to live with Goins, his wife, and two sons at their Davis Chapel home.

Cowboy has his own outside kennel.  However, he’s quick to point out, with a chuckle, that the nine and a half year old has never stepped foot inside it.  Goins says Cowboy’s usual sleeping spot is beside one of their beds.  He adds that it means a lot to him and his family to care for Cowboy. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

School board votes to increase wages for all non-certified employees – June 19, 2018

Teachers will not be the only school employees to receive raises in the next fiscal year. The Campbell County School Board, meeting in a recessed session on Tuesday night, approved raises of 35 cents/hour for secretaries, clerks and maintenance workers and 75 cents/hour for cooks, teachers’ aides, security personnel and janitors. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Campbell sentenced to prison in Gibson’s death – June 19, 2018

Eric Brandon Campbell now knows his fate for his part in the death a well-known pastor.

In 2016, Anthony Gibson died after he was involved in auto accident where Campbell was the driver of the other vehicle.

On Monday, in an emotional sentencing  hearing  in which Gibson’s family forgave Campbell in the death of their loved one, Campbell was given eight and half years in prison.

Earlier this year, Campbell pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide by intoxication, vehicular assault, DUI, simple possession of marijuana and second offense driving on a revoked license.

(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

JW Lee is celebrated – June 19, 2018

It was La Follette’s best kept secret; a surprise birthday party for J.W. Lee.  Because he was taken totally by surprise.

A couple of hundred of J.W. Lee’s friends and family was on hand around 6 pm Tuesday at the Ball Farm Event Center.  The unsuspecting Lee was told he was being taken to dinner at Oak Ridge to celebrate his 85th birthday.  A little after 6 o’clock, Lee entered the Center to a standing ovation.  The plan worked!

Nick Thompson, Lee’s son-in-law, served as the evening’s master of ceremonies.  Thompson said he felt like he needed to tell the audience his name.  He went on to explain that for a long time he was known as Bill Thompson’s boy.  Then J.W. Lee’s son-in-law, and now he’s known as Ann Thompson’s husband.  She is a member of the City of La Follette council.

Todd Overbay, David Stout, and Mike Stanfield all shared J.W. stories as well.

Some of the biggest laughs of the evening came from accounts about how Nick and Ann met.  Nick also drew lots of laughter when he told of the time he and Stanfield visited J.W.’s farm in Harriman.  Little did Stanfield know that Nick had driven him in one of the first remote starting vehicles made.  As the pair entered the barn, Nick told Mike that it was haunted, and that if the spirits did not approve of your presence, they’d do something to scare you away.  That’s about when Nick remotely started the van scaring Mike out of his skin.

Happy Birthday, J.W.    (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Victim Witness Coordinators receive specialized training – June 20, 2018

On Tuesday, District Attorney General, Jared Effler recognized Victim Witness Coordinators, Lana Roberts, Daniel Barnett and Jessica Cain for their completion of the Victim Witness Certification Program through the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference.  These coordinators are only three of thirteen coordinators to have completed the program across the State.  The certification required each coordinator to complete additional training in the areas of victim advocacy and service.  Effler stated, “I greatly appreciate the services that Daniel, Lana and Jessica provide to crime victims on a daily basis.  Completion of this advanced training affirms their commitment to provide the best services possible to our constituents.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Chamber’s annual meeting and dinner is Thursday – June 20, 2018

Is your name on the guest list yet?  Seating is filling up quickly for Thursday’s annual Campbell County Chamber of Commerce meeting and dinner.

All you need to do is call the chamber office at 423.566.0329 to get your name on the guest list.

The 33rd Chamber Annual Meeting will be a night of celebration and reflection as the chamber honors its 2018 Business of the Year, Ball Farm Event Center, award our 2017-18 Leadership Campbell County graduates their certificates, welcome new Chamber board members and say farewell to the board members whose time on the board has come to an end.
Dinner is provided via Chamber Member DW Katering and the keynote speaker is Bob Kesling, the Voice of the Vols.

It all begins at 6 pm at the Ball Farm Event Center.  (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Governor appoints La Follette High Alum to a second term on state board – June 27, 2018

Larry Elmore, Vice President at Pugh CPAs, has been appointed by Gov. Bill Haslam to the State Board of Accountancy for a second three-year term. His appointment will run through June 30, 2021.
Elmore has been with Pugh CPAs for 41 years and served as President of the firm from 2006-2011. He is a graduate of Tennessee Tech University with a BS degree and major in accounting and a graduate of La Follette High School Class of 1972.
Pugh CPAs is a Knoxville based regional accounting and business advisory firm, founded in 1969. The firm provides a wide variety of services in the areas of auditing, accounting, tax and business consulting, including business valuation, litigation support and information technology.(WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Dr. Farris is seeing patients again – June 28, 2018

Tennova Healthcare recently welcomed James C. Farris, M.D., internal medicine physician, to his new medical practice at Tennova LaFollette Medical Center Clinic – South, located at 2145 Jacksboro Pike in LaFollette (behind El Pueblito and Food City). To schedule an appointment, call 423.907-1700. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)

Mya’s first find memorable.  Trooper Raines makes major stop. – June 25, 2018

Little did Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Matt Raines know what last week’s routine traffic stop would bring.

It was on I-75 here in Campbell County where Raines pulled over a commercial motor vehicle and spoke with the driver and co-driver during an inspection of the rig.  He noticed signs of criminal activity and called on the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit to assist.

K-9 Mya, with her partner Corporal Wayne Barton, indicated a positive response to the truck.  It was Mya’s first find.

Raines conducted a probable cause search locating a box with one thousand tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Vape Pens containing 84% THC, three pounds of marijuana in separate vacuum sealed packages and one gram of cocaine.

THP Lieutenant Stacey Heatherly assisted Raines in the investigation as two Pennsylvania men were taken into custody.  Arrested on multiple drug charges and DUI were 45-year old Tuan Truong and 46-year old Vo Truong.  Both men are from Pittsburgh. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 12/27/2018-6AM)