PAGE APB The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021 May 17, 2021 www.knoxfocus.com ONLINE AUCTIONPAGE A1 May 21, 2021 The Knoxville See photos at The Knoxville fountaincityauction.com Fountain City Auction (865)474-9931

OCUS FREETake One! www.knoxfocus.com F May 17, 2021 Phone: 865-686-9970 | PO Box 18377, Knoxville, TN 37928 | Located at 4109 Central Avenue Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37912

BE SAFE . WASH YOUR HANDS . WEAR A MASK . SOCIALLY DISTANCE COVID-19 2019 Knox County Total Confirmed % COVID-19 Cases/ Total COVID-19 % COVID-19 Deaths/ Weekly Total Population1 COVID-19 Cases2 Total Population Deaths2 Total Population 470,313 43,385 9.2% 636 .14% Focus SOURCES 1. U.S. Census Bureau 2. Knox County Health Department data from 5/14/2021.

470,313 43,385 9.2% 636 0.14% Sports Authority Sheriff Tom Spangler begins to meet for the first time campaign for re-election By Mike Steely Senior Writer [email protected] The seven people named to the newly formed Sports Authority will meet for the first time Thursday at the Women’s Basketball of Fame. The 9:30 a.m. meeting will also include city and county staff, includ- ing Knox County Finance Director Chris Caldwell and Knoxville Deputy Mayor Stephanie Welch. The Author- ity is assigned to research the pro- posed publicly-owned sports and entertainment complex in East Knoxville. The meeting will include back- ground on the project, a timeline, and assign board member roles and responsibilities. Officers will be elected and future meetings planned. Should the study find the new complex to be financially viable and independently verified, the Authority, after approval by the city and county, would eventually By Mike Steely finance, build and manage the sta- Senior Writer “This past two years has been dium with bonds it issues. [email protected] unreal, that’s about the only way I Once built the stadium would be “How do you put things in words can describe it,” Spangler said.”The leased to Boyd Sports and the Ten- when you have a crowd here saying men and women of the Knox County nessee Smokies baseball team and they believe in what you’re doing?” Sheriff’s Office are the best officers, the facility would also host other Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler correction officers and employees non-baseball events such as con- asked Thursday afternoon during that any agency ever had. certs and festivals. Next to the sta- his re-election campaign kickoff at “Those men and women didn’t dium Boyd is planning to invest more the Lakeside Restaurant. slow down when Covid hit, they than $100 million in apartments, “I want to continue.” worked tirelessly and didn’t com- condos, restaurants and offices. If He pointed out his support- approved, construction could begin plain. As a leader of that agency ers in the crowd, including sher- this fall and the facility opened in I couldn’t be more proud of those iffs from adjoining counties. State 2023. individuals.” Senator Becky Duncan Massey, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has Knox County Commissioner John “My work is not done, I want placed $13.5 million in his state Schoonmaker, former Republican four more years to be your sheriff,” budget to support the stadium Party Chairman Randy Pace, Gen- Spangler told the crowd. building project. The local project eral Sessions Clerk Charlie Susano, “I believe that with what we’ve is estimated to cost $65 million in Criminal Court Clerk Mike Ham- done so far and what we have bond-supported funds with no local mond and other local officials were planned, it’s exciting,” he contin- county or city taxes obligated. How- also among those in attendance ued. Top, Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler and wife, ever, should the bond payments not The sheriffs kidded Spangler and “I’m not going to change. I’m still Linda, greet supporters. Above, Sheriff Spangler meet the monthly payments on the there was lots of laughter shared Spanky or Tom to those who know addresses a huge crowd at his campaign kickoff in bonds both local governments would among those attending. me,” he promised. Concord last week. need to make up the difference. Larsen Jay Kicks Off Re-election Campaign By Focus Staff Spangler was there, accompanied City Judge John Rosson moved Larsen Jay, chairman of the by Captain Mike Evans. Mayor through the crowd. County Clerk Knox County Commission, kicked Glenn Jacobs introduced Larsen Sherry Witt was holding court at a off his re-election campaign to Jay in remarks which brought both table while Garrett Holt, candidate serve once again as commission- laughter and applause. Jacobs for city council, was visiting with er-at-large. Knox County has two praised Jay for the commission- the several hundred people who commission seats elected county- er’s willingness to work together. came through the event. wide, while the other members are State Senators Becky Duncan Larsen Jay, surrounded by his elected by district. Massey and Richard Briggs were wife, Adrian, and sons Henry and Jay hosted festivities at Lake- there, along with former Knoxville Alexander, thanked everyone for shore Park and drew a big crowd mayor Victor Ashe. Devin Driscoll, being there and joked a lot of folks for an old-fashioned lunch of bar- candidate for the Knox County wondered why he would want to becue and fried chicken and all the Commission, was enthusiastically fixings, which came from Jackie’s shaking hands and so was Circuit run again in the current political Dream and Sweet P’s. There were Court Clerk Charlie Susano, who atmosphere. Jay said he loved many notables and candidates cir- attended with his wife, Robin. The and believed in Knox County. culating through the tables and Focus’s own historical columnist Commissioner Jay has been crowds greeting old friends and Ray Hill was seen posing for pic- especially strong in supporting making new ones while the band tures with folks and retired Judge law enforcement and has taken a Wild Blue Yonder entertained the Charles Susano, father of Charlie strong stand backing the 287(g) Commissioner Larsen Jay, retired Judge Charles Susano, and The 250+ plus crowd. Sheriff Tom Susano, was having a good time. program. Focus’ own Ray Hill. NEW 2021 FORD F150 SUPERCREW The BEST of 2021 The Knoxville Focus and special advertisers would like to applaud the top of area schools’ Class of 2021 for the Stk#DT7858 2026 N Charles G Seviers Blvd . Clinton, TN next three weeks. 865.457.0704 Congratulations! www.rayvarnerford.com PAGE A2 The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021 Nixon’s connections to Knoxville School with him in the late nominee for a seat on the 1981, I turned over one of campaign manager and Indiana. From a distance 1930s. Tennessee Supreme Court. my most interesting cases brough in former Kansas I will never forget him Ms. Greenwood was for I was her campaign man- to Erma, I had such high Congressman Bob Ells- Publisher’s Positions saying, “Boy this is great. many years the only woman ager. respect for her. worth. My hometown newspaper lawyer in Knoxville. For the Unfortunately, she and I While I was a student at About 10 a.m. on Ells- just had a front-page story last several years, women were about the only ones UT, I worked in the Nixon worth’s first morning on the have been the majority of involved in her campaign, for President headquar- job, he gathered the staff yesterday about me coming law students in the U.S. because races for the ters in Washington during all around and walked over to work in the Nixon cam- Erma Greenwood was a state supreme court were the summer of 1967 and to me and said, “What I am paign. Now, I’m here not very well-respected lawyer extremely low-profile in 1968. about to say does not apply even two hours, and I get By John J. Duncan Jr. here, and she had great those years. The campaigns were to you, so sit tight and keep fired.” [email protected] respect for Nixon. In addition, due to the much smaller back then, quiet.” But they ended up keep- She was on a first-name Watergate scandal, 1974 and in 1967, Nixon had He then said, “You’re all ing me and him, the only Last week’s column basis with him, calling him was a terrible year for only about 20 people work- fired and I want to see each two college students, and about Richard Nixon Dick, and he reportedly Republicans, and Ms. ing in Washington and Pat one of you individually in the switchboard operator. brought back the memory gave her serious consid- Greenwood lost. A woman Buchanan and Rosemary my office upstairs.” of an interesting Knoxville eration for appointment to did not go on the Tennes- Woods worked with him at The only other college I have always said since connection Nixon had. the U.S. Supreme Court. see Supreme Court until his law office in New York. student there was Mark then that I was not even Erma Greenwood attend- In 1974, Ms. Greenwood 1990. In that first summer, Pfeiffer, a student at Dart- high enough up in the cam- ed Duke University Law became the Republican When I became judge in Nixon fired his national mouth from Columbus, paign to get fired. Affordable Housing Fund Thursday is final vote before city council the deadline By Mike Steely Senior Writer $8.1 million during the next classes at the Magdalena and upgrade restroom for Knoxville [email protected] fiscal year. The money goes Clark Tower at the former facilities at “The Foyer” on toward various programs St. Mary’s Hospital Com- Broadway. When the Knoxville City and agencies and would plex may get free parking Legacy Parks will be Council petitions Council meets Tuesday create a “housing finance there in a non-exclusive thanked for donating 53.86 By Mike Steely evening the members are specialist.” agreement. acres on the north side Senior Writer and another by Billy expected to pass, on final The council will also Two parcels of land, one of Sharp’s Ridge and the [email protected] F. Stephens for the reading, the creation of the vote on the proposed city on Luscombe Drive and the council will consider rezon- District 3 seat. Affordable Housing Fund. budget, a tax rate that will other on Callahan Drive, ing property at 2002 Thun- Thursday is the As reported Thursday Mayor Indya Kincan- not increase and compen- may be voluntarily annexed derhead Road from region- deadline for candidates District 1 incumbent non’s proposal would set sation for city employees. into the city and five tracts al commercial to gener- to turn in their signed Tommy Smith is being aside $50 million over the Lincoln Memorial Uni- may be purchased for the al commercial. A rezoning petitions for the August challenged by David next 10 years and spend versity students attending Texas Avenue Sidewalk request for 2100 Chipman 31 Primary Election Hayes, Elizabeth Murphy Project. The Community Street is before the coun- for Knoxville City and Martin Pleasant. Action Committee may get cil also with a request to Council. The top two an additional $396,508 for go from RN-4 general res- that receive the most District 2 incumbent Rapid Re-Housing for fam- idential to I-MU, Industrial votes in each race move Andrew Roberto ilies and senior citizens Mixed Use. on to the November may face Edward experiencing homeless- Councilwoman Amelia general election. Cook, Jeremy Cook ness during the COVID-19 Parker may be named to While the field and Kim Smith. pandemic. the board of directors of the continues to grow with Incumbent Seema The Volunteer Minis- Community Television Com- 18 candidates for the Singh may face Nicholas try Center may also get mittee and Lola Alapo may five council seats, as of Ciparro and Billy F. an additional $58,342 in be named to the Visit Knox- Thursday, five candidates Stephens in District 3. COVID-19 funds to repair ville Board of Directors. have returned their Lauren Rider, petitions, including incumbent council three incumbents. It’s member in District possible that other 4, may face Dan people will pick up Davis, Jim Klonaris, petitions and some with and Jen McMahan. petitions may not turn them into the election Vice Mayor Gwen commission. May 27 is McKenzie, of District the withdrawal date. 6, may face challenges This past week from Deidra C. Harper 4110 Central Avenue Pike saw two new petition and Garrett Holt. Knoxville, TN 37912 pickups, one by Kim August 11 is the first 865-687-6622 www.cvlcknox.org Smith in District 2 day of early voting.

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All political ad content must may be submitted by e-mail to [email protected]. from our writers are gratis and are greatly appreciated. While articles be pre-approved prior to its run in the paper. Publisher ...... Steve Hunley are not guaranteed placement, we do strive to place as much as pos- sible. Submissions for the paper are on a space available basis and 865-686-9970 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE A2 The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021 May 17, 2021 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE A3 Publisher’s Positions Chicago and Illinois... Sheriff’s Office and the City the few, albeit loud, voices to attract young men and people who elected them of Knoxville Police Depart- of the leftists who are the women to a law enforce- is nothing less than idiotic. Not the Tennessee ment to staff schools in same folks demanding the ment career. Nope, instead There is nothing to prevent Knoxville and Knox County. KPD be defunded. Kin- Indya is spending it on people from communicat- Waltz While it is true the school cannon sent a letter stat- social programs and hails ing with board members Washington, D. C. has system has its own security ing she was withdrawing “programs” like “violence to share their thoughts as never had a Republican officers, they do not carry the 14 KPD officers inside interruption.” I wonder if it is; board members have mayor, not ever. Folks in the legal authority or the schools. Thus far, to my they’ve tried that in Chica- received hundreds and Washington are not allowed same training as either the knowledge, only one soli- go? Maybe they’ll do that hundreds of emails about to dance at weddings by officers from the sheriff’s tary member of the Knox- after the cats clean out the the masking policy as well order of its boneheaded office and the KPD. In an ville City Council, Gwen rats. Council members like as school security. Board mayor, allegedly due to the emergency, it is the sher- McKenzie, has said she Tommy Smith run around members have sat and By Steve Hunley, Corona virus. Strippers can iff’s office or the KPD that isn’t crazy about Mayor Kin- telling anybody who will listened to people pretty Publisher dance, and so can people would be called and expect- cannon’s decision. Kincan- listen what a great budget much endlessly. [email protected] at yoga classes, just not at ed to respond. non reputedly never even it is (and it will cause taxes The board better keep By Their Fruits Ye weddings. Watson’s virtue signal- bothered to consult the to go up the following year), one thing in mind: there’s Shall Know Them ing resolution included lan- council members before but nothing about keeping nothing wrong with hearing Sound Familiar? guage calling for a “facilita- making the decision. All the officers in the schools. what the public thinks, but Let’s look at Chicago— tor” as well as the involve- heck broke loose and You’d think that would be if you want a document the the last Republican mayor Jimmy Carter was presi- ment of various groups and parents, rightly, lost their an important consideration sheriff will sign, it’s likely of the “Windy City” was Wil- dent when Americans sat community involvement in minds. Nobody would come for a young father. best not to try and hamper liam Hale Thompson who for hours at the gas pump reviewing the MOA. Doug right out and say they were Indya’s announce- law enforcement profes- left office in 1931. So, for during the last gasoline Harris, a former chairman for withdrawing the officers ment knocked Little Dan’l sionals doing their job. the last 89 years, Chica- shortage. Déjà vu all over of the Knox County Board from the school. Some par- Watson for a loop. A major- Everybody in the country go has been governed by again! Joe Biden immedi- of Education, sent an email ents reminded board mem- ity of the board didn’t much seems to be able to tell us Democrats. Now an animal ately killed America’s posi- to every member remind- bers Anthony Thompson Jr. like the idea of his resolu- how everything should be shelter is having to release tion as one of the biggest ing them of the process did take a loaded gun into tion and they pretty well and how some event could 1,000 feral cats to deal energy-producers in the adopted by the school Austin-East High School clubbed it to death at the have been so different if with the explosion of rats world, to once again make board at the time. The as well as extra ammuni- last meeting. The “honey only from behind the securi- in the city. According to us dependent upon for- MOA, Harris pointed out, tion clips. Daniel Watson badger” of the board of ty of their computer screen. the pest control company eign powers, while killing was the result of commu- moved as fast as a scald- education, Mike McMillan, Unfortunately, much of Orkin, Chicago has ranked hundreds of thousands of nity hearings following the ed cat to disassociate him- who had proposed public this public conversation number one on its list of good paying jobs. Where tragedies at Columbine and self from Kincannon’s deci- meetings in the various dis- and dialogue isn’t about “rattiest cities” in Ameri- are the “green” jobs Biden Sandy Hook. Almost cer- sion, although as far as I tricts, scoffed at the idea the charge of the school ca. By May 1, Chicago has promised? Wait, many of tainly, Daniel Watson had know, he never came out in the board needed a facil- system protecting the stu- had 187 murders, 31 more us are still sitting in line at no idea what went on at the opposition to the city may- itator. McMillan scolded dents, faculty and staff in than at the same time last the gas pumps. time, who was involved, or or’s actions. Nor could board Vice Chair Virginia our schools; it’s about a year. 769 people were mur- The Carter era was also that the community had anybody with a brain not on Babb, reminding her the group of folks who want to dered in Chicago during known for sky high inflation had ample opportunities life support be surprised by board was elected by the use a tragedy, not to effect 2020. Chicago’s eight pen- and Joe Biden appears to to speak out and give their Kincannon’s backing water people, directly responsible real change, but rather sion funds carry more debt be Jimmy Carter 2.0. opinions, which they did. almost immediately. The to the people who elected to win political advan- than 44 states in our coun- Harris recalled there was city mayor’s apologists in them from their respective tage. After all, if you sup- try. Those pensions are What’s My Line? not a single protest from the local media attempt- districts, not the teach- port defunding the police, presently carrying $46 bil- any parent in Knoxville ed to say what Indya really ers, principals, or school there’ll be NO officers on lion in debt. Pension fund- Daniel Watson, the resi- or Knox County in having meant was we ought to bureaucracy. McMillan duty anywhere, much less ing consumes 29% of the dent social justice warrior officers from the sheriff’s have some conversations says the board leadership, protecting our children in Illinois State budget. The of the Knox County Board office or the KPD stationed and other meaningless Chair Susan Horn and Vice schools. “Honey Badger” last time the City of Knox- of Education, doesn’t seem at schools. Quite the con- tripe aside from her stated Chair Babb, were elected McMillan is right; it’s time ville raised taxes it was in to understand his role on trary, there was an outpour- intention of withdrawing by the other members of for the board to handle its part to keep its pension that body or how to accom- ing of support for the idea. the 14 officers from the the board and well able to own business and make fund solvent for retired plish anything. For the past Mike McMillan, who was on schools. There were refer- preside at public meetings. its own decisions. The employees. The next tax several weeks, Watson has the board at the time, con- ences to the fact the City McMillan is exactly right people of South Knox- increase will be, in large been trying to pass an elab- firms Harris’ recollection. needs those 14 officers out and Little Dan’l is wrong. ville, Gibbs, Carter, Cen- part, to fund Indya Kincan- orate resolution outlining a Then a funny thing hap- on the streets. Well, if that Only the board members tral, Halls, Karns, Powell, non’s spending habits and process of his own inven- pened on the way to the is true—and I do know there are elected and directly Hardin Valley, Farragut and the defined benefits pack- tion to involve the commu- meeting. Daniel Watson is a shortage of recruits in accountable to the people. Bearden have voices, too. ages of city employees. nity in reviewing the Mem- got run over by a bus driven the KPD—Indya has $50 The notion the board needs Let them be heard. A pension apocalypse is orandum of Agreement by Mayor Indya Kincan- million of NEW spending in a facilitator to instruct it just around the corner for between the Knox County non. Kincannon caved to her budget with mighty little on how to listen to the Knox County Ethics County budget votes moved up a month By Mike Steely Committee to reorganize Senior Writer County Mayor Glenn planned road improve- “They are working at By Mike Steely [email protected] Senior Writer with that election. Knox Jacobs has presented an ments, the cost of elec- McDonald’s wages,” Com- [email protected] County Law Director $893.6 budget, a 4.9% tions and the price of paper missioner Randy Smith David Buuck reminded The first in two votes on increase over 2021, with for the ballot machines, a said of the salaries of some Although the Knox the committee that any the Knox County Budget no property tax increase possible four-lane high- school employees. County Committee on complaint of a violation has been moved to begin and a 4% pay increase for way through Hardin Valley, Commissioner Carson Committees recommend- must be based “on first- at today’s commission work county employees. and the county’s $2 mil- Dailey praised the Parks ed that the Ethics Com- hand knowledge” and session. The 2022 budget Aside from Sheriff Span- lion share in upkeep at the and Recreation Depart- mittee be disbanded, recalled one complaint is required to be approved gler other speakers includ- City-County Building where ment and learned the that committee contin- that was based on a on July 1 and had originally ed Knox County Finance Caldwell said the county department plans to review ues to meet each quar- News-Sentinel story been placed on the agen- Director Chris Caldwell, government occupies 70% the Three Ridges Gold ter. Chairman Michael but not witnessed by das for June. School Superintendent of the building. The com- Course and create a coun- Covington called the the person filing the The commission agreed Bob Thomas and various missioners considered pos- ty-wide park master plan. ethics meeting to order complaint. with Chairman Larsen Jay’s school officers, members sibly using federal CARES Smith asked about the Wednesday morning and All ethics complaints go suggestion of moving the of the Parks and Recre- funds for the two new Schaad Road project’s $23 reminded members that to the law department for dates up. The final reading ation Department, Health county schools and includ- million cost and was told he and Billy Stephens will review before being heard will probably be approved Department, Election Com- ing custodians and secre- the improvement may be be cycling off and a new by the ethics committee. during the commission’s mission and Engineering. taries in the school’s 4% completed in three years. chair and vice chair need Only one complaint, filed regular meeting next Questions ranged from pay increase. to be elected in their against the commission Monday. November meeting. chairman over the mask During the budget hear- He also welcomed mandate, has been heard ing several commissioners Rusty Goddard as a new since 2017. That one was had questions about differ- ethics member. The cur- dismissed. ent department’s requests rent ethics committee The ethics committee for funding. Sheriff Tom consists of Covington, was created under state Spangler talked about the Stephens, Goddard, Vice law in 2007 and a code of additional $2 million in his Chair Kim Frazier, Virgin- ethics adopted. That was budget, spoke about pay ia Anagnost, Daryl Arnold, amended by the county raises, and the loss of offi- Perry Beal, Mary Linda in 2018. The nine-month cers to other law enforce- Schwartzbart, and Bryon deadline on complaints ment departments or other Wood. Non-voting mem- goes before the Knox employment. He noted that bers include Commission- County Commission for the academy and 14-week er Courtney Durrett, sher- approval. training period costs about iff’s office representative There was no other $50,000 but that new offi- Carlton Bryan and Mayor business before the cers must sign on for three Jacobs’ representative ethics committee. years. Marcus Kennedy. Much of the ethics committee meeting was a discussion that set nine months as the deadline for filing of a ONLINE GUNS, KNIVES & complaint following any ARTIFACTS AUCTION alleged violation. In 2017 Saturday, May 29 several complaints, heard Lots start coming off at 2 p.m. just before the county fountaincityauction.com election, were deemed (865)474-9931 “political” in nature and may have interfered Dogwood winter PAGE A4 The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021 School’s mask mandate ends May 26 Defining By Mike Steely Senior Writer member said many parents expect- resolution but the proposal met with [email protected] ed mask wearing during the summer opposition from some members. The final day of school for Knox session and may not have their chil- Watson said the agreement does employment County is May 26 and on that day dren attend without masking. not mention removing officers from One area of law Code Annotat- the mask mandate for staff and stu- Board member Mike McMillan said the schools and is aimed “to get the that most people ed section 50-6- dents ends. Originally set to sunset in he did not understand why students, community to the table.” He suggest- have heard of, 102 lays out August, the board of education voted when outside, were being required to ed the public be invited to take part. even if they do those factors for to move the date up. That means wear masks. Several board members spoke not totally under- us. The factors no mask requirement for summer The 6-2-1 vote saw Susan Horn, against the resolution with Bounds stand it, is work- to be considered school teachers or students. Virginia Babb, Betsy Henderson, saying including “Black Lives” in er’s compensa- are: the right to Masks may be worn if desired Patti Bounds, Kristi Kristy and the resolution was not appropriate. tion law, which is control the con- but the face coverings will not be McMillan voting “Yes,” Evetty Sat- Watson replied he was not comfort- often shortened By Jedidiah duct of work; the required. It took more than four terfield and Jennifer Owen vote “No,” able removing that portion of the res- to worker’s comp. McKeehan right of termina- hours of public forum and discus- and Daniel Watson passing. olution. Worker’s comp tion; the method attorneyknoxville@ sion before six members of the Numerous citizens spoke against Kristy said the resolution “seems cases are those of payment; gmail.com board voted to end the masking. Two masks in school from the balcony to be an indictment of law enforce- involving an the freedom to wanted to keep the August date and of the main assembly room of the ment.” employee who was injured select and hire helpers; one member passed on the vote. City-County Building. Several of the Chairman Susan Horn said she while performing their the furnishing of tools and One member objected to suspend- school board members also did not favors a conversation but not the duties as an employee for equipment; self-scheduling ing the rules and passing it on one wear masks during the meeting. resolution. their employer. of working hours; and the By Ray Hill vote but that failed. The board also voted against a Owen said the current memoran- When an employee sus- freedom to offer services to [email protected] The mask mandate in schools resolution presented by Watson dum of agreement was drafted with tains an injury, the employ- other entities. was scheduled to stretch through that would have set up a review no input from the public and Sat- ee may make a claim made If there is a dispute as to summer and sunset on August 1. and revision of the memorandum of terfield said, “We’ve forgotten who against the worker’s comp whether someone was an Some 5,850 students have signed agreement between the board, law we serve.” insurance of the employer employee or a contractor, up for summer school and some of enforcement, the county, the attor- The resolution failed with only and the employer’s insur- a worker’s comp judge will those were “virtual” students during ney general and the city on security Owen, Watson and Satterfield sup- ance may have to pay a per- hear testimony from the the regular school year. One board in schools. Watson had revised the porting it. centage of the employee’s injured party, the alleged salary while they are out of employer, and any other work, and then a lump sum individuals with knowledge amount for any temporary about the relationship in or permanent impairment regard to these factors and that they have received as make a ruling on whether a result of their work-relat- there was an employee- BeachWe’re home timegroups arrive for who tend to be loud and be done as well. For some ed injury. employer relationship. from vacation. their vacations rowdy. For the most part, reason, a swimsuit causes Worker’s comp cases So if the testimony shows Everything is and locals crowd Navarre Beach is a spot for some strange actions. in Tennessee do not go that the employer controlled unloaded and the pier to fish. families with small children I’ve never seen so many through the normal court when the employee showed before long, I’ll Another delay and for oldsters like me. females wearing skimpy system. There are spe- up, provided them with have the sand in coming to the We ate in most of the suits and spend time trying cial worker’s comp courts equipment for their work, out of shoes and beach is the bird time simply because we to stretch tiny pieces of and judges who exclusively and did not allow them to suitcases. The sanctuary along didn’t want to fight the cloth across their back- handle worker’s comp mat- perform work for other enti- weather was per- the road. Birds traffic. Most folks who sides. They tugged at tops ters. I would certainly con- ties, then the proof would fect. Highs were are nesting, had visited in years past that slipped and slid over sider it a specialized area lean towards the existence in the upper 70s By Joe Rector and the speed suggested we go to Pen- their oiled skin. Too many of the law. of an employee-employer to the low 80s. [email protected] limit is set at 20 sacola since the number men my age were spotted When someone believes relationship. The rains hit on mph. Getting to of restaurants at Navarre wearing speedos that were that they have a worker’s However, if the testimony Monday and Tuesday, but and from the places visi- is small, which makes wait hidden by big bellies that comp case, one of the first shows that the “employer” we still found things to tors stay can be exhaust- times even longer. Our one overhung them. things that needs to be had no control over when keep us busy. In all, the ing and frustrating. venture out was to Scoot- By the time you read established is whether or the “employee” showed trip to Navarre Beach was The beach is almost er’s. The food was fantas- this, I’ll be back home. I not there was an employ- up, did not control who a success. perfect. Located close tic! If you get down here, miss mowing the lawn and er-employee relationship. the “employee” hired to With that said, I have to to condos and motels, make the trip to Scooter’s. digging in the dirt. I hope If the person who was help them with their work, give the place a few minus- folks have little trouble Try the fried snapper or to work at the golf course injured was not, in fact, an and did not provide them es. For one, Navarre is a maneuvering to a place grilled grouper. again this year, and Jim employee, but was instead any tools to perform their small place. The cause- to dump their gear and hit If what a person wants and I have several projects a subcontractor or indepen- work, then that proof would way is two lanes. Every day the water. The area is not is a place that offers little to complete this summer. dent contractor, then they lean towards an employee- about 4:00 p.m., the traf- as well-known as nearby entertainment but plenty By the end of the season, would not be considered an employer relationship NOT fic is terrible. Some folks beaches, so that means of rest, Navarre Beach is I’ll be ready for another employee and they would existing. claimed they spent up to the crowds on the sand are the place to visit. Sleeping beach trip. I’d like to go to not be entitled to compen- Jedidiah McKeehan is two hours just to drive much smaller. Of course, in is nice, especially when Isle of Palms if an afford- sation for their injuries. an attorney practicing in down Gulf Boulevard to making the journey before the rest of the day can be able condo is available. What factors are used to Knox County and surround- the causeway. On week- schools empty for the spent lazing around the We’ll see. All I know is that determine whether some- ing counties. Visit attor- ends, the traffic stacks summer ends cuts down beach. There’s plenty of a trip to the ocean renews one was an employee or ney-knoxville.com for more up the other way as new on the number to teens people watching that can a person’s spirit. a contractor? Tennessee information. Keep Knoxville Beautiful to Host a May Trash Run Keep Knoxville Beautiful will be hosting its second spring Trash Run on Thurs- day, May 27, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event will kick off at Alliance Brew- ing, 1130 Sevier Avenue. The Trash Run is a non-competitive fun run and litter pickup for run- ners/walkers of all ages. There is no designat- ed route for the event; rather participants are encouraged to spend an hour running or walk- ing and collecting litter in the area. Keep Knox- ville Beautiful will pro- vide maps, gloves, safety vests, and litter-pickers. After the cleanup, vol- unteers are invited back to Alliance Brewing Co where they will receive $1 off beer as well as the chance to win prizes. Participants can sign up at www.keepknoxville- beautiful.org/upcoming. Prizes include: T-Shirts from Borderland Tees, gift cards from local brewer- ies, and more from busi- nesses in Old Sevier. Par- ticipants will receive prize entry tickets for each bag of trash they col- lected during the event. PAGE A4 The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021 May 17, 2021 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE A5 Tennessee’s ‘Unholy Trinity’ Mr. Jim Cummings Pages from the Past

By Ray Hill [email protected]

“Live so that when you Hesta McBroom, a local girl die, even the undertaker whom he married. “Miss will be sorry.” Hesta” ran a small insur- Sign that hung in the ance business out of the business office of Jim Cum- Cummings law office. mings. Jim Cummings went to Nashville in 1929 having been elected to serve as James H. Cummings the state senator from a is likely a name unfamil- small cluster of coun- iar with most readers, but ties surrounding his own during his time he was a Cannon County. For the power and a man to be next forty years, Jim Cum- reckoned with. When he mings would be a fixture died in 1979, “Mr. Jim” in the legislature with the Cummings had served exception of four years ASSOCIATED PRESS WIREPHOTO FROM THE AUTHOR’S PERSONAL COLLECTION. longer in Tennessee’s when he served as Ten- James H. “Mr. Jim” Cummings was unanimously elected Speaker of the TN House of Representatives in 1967. Mr. Jim state legislature than any nessee’s Secretary of State reconvenes the House in 1968. other man in our state’s and two years when he history. Living in the tiny opted not to run, as he was almost always when there I.D. Beasley also caught a Jim Cummings was elect- most shrewd and astute hamlet of Woodbury, Ten- managing Gordon Brown- was a close vote pending blind legislator on the steps ed Secretary of State. politician I’ve ever known” nessee, Cummings influ- ing’s unsuccessful guber- on the floor, which urgent- of the Capitol and imper- Although Browning attempt- yet said Cummings had enced events and pushed natorial campaign in 1938. ly requested a legislator sonated Governor Austin ed to win a third two-year a gentleness about him. rural interests while serving “I always figured Nash- on the other side come to Peay and asked the poor term in 1952, Cummings Still, despite his increas- in the legislature. Jim Cum- ville and Memphis, with the governor’s office or for fellow to change his vote, was running for the legisla- ing years, Jim Cummings mings was powerful enough their big delegations a special conference in a which he did. ture once again. Cummings remained a chain smoker, in Nashville to vex Edward would take care of the Capitol hideaway. By the Nor was Jim Cummings promptly became Gover- frequently lighting one ciga- Hull Crump, master of the urban areas in the legisla- time the puzzled legislator safe from his friend I. D. nor Frank Clement’s floor rette from another. Nor did Shelby County machine ture,” Jim Cummings once finally figured out the gov- Beasley. Sharing a hotel leader. When Cummings “Mr. Jim” lose his fondness and was a strong support- recalled. “Well, I lived on a ernor had not summoned room while the legislature announced he wanted to for libations. Cummings er of Tennessee’s influen- little dirt road, and I figured him, the vote had been was in session, Jim Cum- become Speaker of the enjoyed an overflowing tial U. S. Senator Kenneth I could do something for taken and recorded. mings had gone to bed and House in 1967, all the other liquor cabinet on the floor McKellar, while also allied the rural counties.” Cum- Ellington realized the was asleep when Beasley candidates promptly with- of the House chamber until with McKellar’s political mings, along with his allies strength of the three rural convinced an obliging drug drew. At home, no one ever an inquiring reporter final- nemesis Gordon Browning. I. D. Beasley and “Pete” legislators. “If those three store clerk to fill his mouth bothered to run against Jim ly exposed its existence. Always colorful, “Mr. Jim” Haynes frequently frustrat- decided to kill you on a liberally with toothpaste Cummings, such was his Lanier marveled that Cum- joined with two other long- ed the aims of the urban particular bill, they could and foam at the mouth. personal popularity. mings stamina, noting the serving rural legislators, I. interests led by E. H. Crump kill you,” Ellington recalled. Beasley switched on the The last years of Jim veteran legislator “could go D. Beasley of Carthage and and Hilary Howse, Nash- “It’s as simple as that. They lights and began scream- Cummings’ service in the with the youngest man up W. D. “Pete” Haynes of Win- ville’s mayor. Crump was could scan a bill in a few ing bloody murder. Cum- Tennessee House of Rep- there all night long and sit chester, Tennessee. The particularly appalled that minutes and tell anyone mings came awake staring resentatives was devoted through committee meet- three constituted a power- legislators like Jim Cum- exactly what was in it. They into the face of the frothing to fending off legislative ings all the next day.” ful bloc inside the legisla- mings (as well as governors were experts on parliamen- clerk and leaped out of bed, reappointment, a battle he Following retirement, a ture, promoting rural inter- like Austin Peay) collect- tary procedure, and could grabbing a chair and shriek- eventually lost. As long as wing of the War Memori- ests and were widely known ed money from the urban tie up a session in giant ing, “Kill him! Kill him!” the battle was confined to al Building was named for as the “Unholy Trinity” by counties and spent it in the knots of red tape if they No one was safe from the state legislature, Jim Cummings and the legisla- those who had the misfor- rural counties. Although were against a bill being Beasley pranks and dis- Cummings was able to keep ture met in special session tune to tangle with them, Jim Cummings admired considered.” Cummings trict attorney Baxter Key reapportionment at bay. It in Murfreesboro, Tennes- either singularly or collec- Senator McKellar, his admi- served as Ellington’s floor remembered, “One day a took a federal court to best see to name a dormitory in tively. ration did not extend to Mr. leader in 1959. stranger came to town look- Jim Cummings. After 1963, his honor. James H. Cummings was Crump. Cummings often- The 5’3 and 230 pound ing for me and I. D. told him Cannon County would not Serving with eight gov- born November 8, 1890 times referred to his native I. D. Beasley died in 1955 I was deaf - - - that I could have its own representa- ernors, “Mr. Jim” began and like many young men Middle Tennessee as “free and if anything, he was hear only if he shouted at tive in the legislature and to wear out from old age. of the time, Cummings Tennessee.” The triumvi- even more colorful than the top of his lungs. That Cummings realized with the Ill, Cummings went to St. taught school, earning $35 rate of Cummings, Beasley “Mr. Jim” Cummings. Bea- was 30 years ago and I can addition of the more popu- Thomas Hospital in Nash- a month and recalled, “I and Haynes, according to sley was remembered as hear it yet.” lous Rutherford County to ville for surgery and con- remember carrying water the Nashville Tennessean, “the Mockingbird of Capi- Jim Cummings explained his district, his days were tinued to fade. He died and wood to the school “operated together like a tol Hill” for his uncanny abil- the alliance years after I. D. likely numbered. Yet, Jim a week before his eighty- house. I decided then that well-oiled, if miniscule polit- ity to mimic anyone, man or Beasley had died and Pete Cummings endured for ninth birthday. there had to be a better ical machine.” As each of woman. Supposedly, Bea- Haynes had retired. “We another decade. Cum- For forty years “Mr. Jim” way.” them accumulated expe- sley was such an excellent were three country lawyers mings remained adamant Cummings had worked The better way for Cum- rience, each gained con- mimic, a man’s wife could connected by our interest in his disdain for apportion- for the interests of rural mings was becoming Circuit tacts and an exhaustive not tell the difference. in rural Tennessee. We ing representative on the people all across the State Court Clerk in 1912. While knowledge of parliamenta- When Beasley took the tried to work together for basis of population. “We of Tennessee and was a serving as Clerk, Cummings ry procedure, allowing the oath of office that same the common good.” Cum- must not allow numerical devoted friend to educa- also became the publish- “Unholy Trinity”, united or year, it marked his thir- mings’ philosophy was concentrations of people tion especially. The lives er for the Cannon Couri- occasionally one of them teenth term in either the simple. “I believe in col- to be the sole gauge of the of the people his service er. Cummings left office in alone, “on occasion to out- state senate or house, a lecting the taxes where the number of representatives encompassed and touched 1920 and accepted a job maneuver the entire 132- record later broken by Jim money is - - - in the cities alive. It’s not healthy,” Cum- is impossible to measure, in the State Comptroller’s member legislature, and Cummings. Beasley had - - - and spending it where mings complained. but they and their descen- office in Nashville while the governor and the Crump impersonated the voice of it’s needed - - - in the coun- He remained a spokes- dants still walk amongst us. attending the YMCA law political machine to boot.” Frank “Roxy” Rice, Crump’s try,” Cummings said before man for rural interests, con- When “Mr. Jim” died, even school at night. Admitted to Cummings once sent Gov- generalissmo in charge of adding, “Now that’s not as fessing, “I guess I’ll always the undertaker was sorry. the bar in 1922, Jim Cum- ernor Prentice Cooper and legislative affairs to dupe a unreasonable as it sounds.” see things from this side mings went to Cumberland Crump into a spiral in 1941 fellow legislator from Chat- Friend or foe, Jim Cum- of the bank.” Cummings University in 1923 where when he suddenly demand- tanooga. Pretending to be mings managed to keep did not see that rural prob- he received his diploma. A ed all bills in committee be Rice, Beasley proceeded to more or less cordial rela- lems were that much differ- real estate boom in Flori- brought to the floor for dis- tell D. M. Coleman Crump tions with every governor, ent from those plaguing the da lured Cummings to the posal. Nor were any of the had changed his mind save for Prentice Cooper. cities. “I mean, they have Sunshine State where he three, especially I. D. Bea- and was supporting Pete Once, in a fit of pique, Gov- problems in the cities with went to work for a devel- sley, above playing pranks Haynes to be Speaker of the ernor Cooper denounced a ghettoes, but we have them oper in 1925. The boom on anyone and everyone. House. Crump had gone to statement of Cummings as of sorts, too. There are went bust in 1927 and “Mr. Governor Buford Ellington Hot Springs, Arkansas to “the howl of a disappoint- houses around here where Jim” came home to Wood- remembered, when any of revive himself, while Roxy ed, hungry politician.” Cum- a dog could jump through bury where he opened a the three legislators paid Rice went to Pasadena, Cal- mings could hold his own the cracks.” law office and began five him a visit “the first thing ifornia to watch the Rose and snapped back the gov- Never having lost an decades of practice as a I’d do was hide my personal Bowl game. It did not take ernor was merely playing election and past eighty, country lawyer. “I learned memo pads. If I didn’t, they either the Memphis Boss the “role of a hit dog” and Jim Cummings announced a lot down there,” Cum- stole them and used them or Frank Rice long to figure was speaking “for his mas- in 1972 he would not be mings said of his time in for their own purposes.” what had gone awry. Pete ters,” meaning E. H. Crump. a candidate for reelection Florida. “One of the things Ellington was referring to a Haynes became speaker by When Gordon Brown- to the Tennessee House of I learned was I couldn’t longstanding habit where Beasley’s deception, much ing made his triumphant Representatives. James get along without Hesta.” one of the three would forge to Crump’s dismay and dis- return to Nashville after Lanier, a fellow legislator, Cummings was referring to a note from the governor, pleasure. a decade out of office, said, “He was probably the PAGE A6 The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021 Personal Side of Dwight Kessel Part 12, Final in series on Knoxville, Boys and Girls a quote that I thought was Wallace Dwight Kessel Clubs of the Tennessee worth saving, ‘Have a posi- Valley, Knoxville Hall of tive attitude. It’s not about He has led a served in many Fame, Heart Association, what happens in your life, full and varied capacities in Boy Scouts of America – it’s about how you react to life. Knox Coun- several profes- Great Smoky Mountain it.’ ty’s first County sional organiza- Council, United Way of “I have enjoyed a good Executive was tions including Greater Knoxville, Interfaith life. I can’t say enough very active in City Salesman’s Health Clinic, and National positive things about my his church. A Club (41 years), Conference of Christians family. I have a great wife, member of First Metropolitan & Jews (National Confer- great children, great grand- Baptist Church Planning Orga- ence). children and great great- Knoxville, Dwight By Ralphine Major nization, Nation- The Knoxville politician grandchildren. To this day, Kessel was elect- ralphine3@yahoo. al Association from West Virginia reflects we still get together almost com ed deacon in of Counties, on his life: every week to dine and visit Picture from 2008 Family Vacation at Greenbriar, White 1978, served as and The Down- “My experiences have and once a year for a family Sulfur Springs, W. Virginia (a family tradition), L-R: Kar- trustee for 15 years, was town Organization. Com- taught me that the most vacation. Whatever my job, en K. Nelson, Jack Nelson, Gloria Kessel, Matthew Avery, a member of the ushering munity Activities included important thing in life is to I enjoyed great employees, Dwight Kessel, Edgar Kessel, Kathryn Nelson. and welcoming committee the Kiwanis Club, Better be willing to take a stand many of whom I see on a for 21 years, and taught Business Bureau of Great- on what you think is right. regular basis. I hope to be I feel like the Lord was look- Words of Faith: “Blessed a Sunday School class er Knoxville/East Tennes- Not every person and/or remembered as someone ing after me and had more be the Lord, who daily for 20 years. As a former see, Serene Manor Medi- situation is positive. Most who was thoughtful, kind, to do with what happened loadeth us with benefits.” member of Church Street cal Center, World’s Fair – people I met in politics and and considerate of others. to me than I was ever Psalm 68:19 (KJV) United Methodist Church, Expo 82, Tennessee Valley in businesses wanted to When all is said and done, aware.” he served as Sunday Fair Association, American win big, but I always felt School Superintendent and Legion Knoxville Post 2, the important thing was to taught Sunday School for Greater Knoxville Cham- win. There are situations ten years. He served on ber of Commerce, Knox- in which there is the possi- the WORD for Living Board ville Tourist Bureau, and bility of negotiation or com- (Dr. Ferguson’s Radio & TV Knox County Juvenile promise but some require Program). Court Advisory Board. The a firm stand. Try to get all Kessel was a member of former Knox County Execu- the information you can to the first Leadership Knox- tive’s Agency Work includ- make a good decision and ville Class in 1985. He ed YMCA of Metropolitan then stick with it. This is Best Wishes to AUSTIN-EAST the Central High Class of 2021!

Ahya Moreno, Noel Djenini, Valedictorian Salutatorian CENTRAL

Libelula Baldriche, Leigha Gregory, Elaine Sheddan, Valedictorian Co-Salutatorian Co-Salutatorian FULTON

Central High School Alumni Association Abby Diggs, Anthony De Leon Matta, Valedictorian Salutatorian

Congratulations to the Halls High Class of 2021! May 17, 2021 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE B1

May 17, 2021

Mom watches from afar as 8th grader helps GCA advance By Steve Williams Grace Christian into the left-centerfield gap. to watch your daughter team one year. pitcher Brooke Brooke Million, an 8th Grace Christian erupted pitch in that situation? “Brooke is way better Million, an 8th grader, was pitching in a for six runs in the bottom “It was very tough,” said than I ever thought about grader, gets a pressure-packed situa- of the sixth and coasted to Barbara Million. “That’s being,” added Barbara. “I’m visit from senior tion for Grace Christian’s a 13-6 win Tuesday at GCA. why I had to come over here very proud of her. She’s Hunter Troutt in softball team last week in Senior starter Hannah in the corner and hide out,” known for going into tough the circle during the Division II Class A East Cooper, a lefty, came back she laughed after things situations and being able to the Lady Rams’ Region tournament. in to pitch a scoreless sev- had worked out for Brooke keep her composure espe- Division II-A The young pitcher walked enth inning to end it. and the Lady Rams. “She cially as young as she is. East Region soft- a batter with the bases But during the earlier kept her composure and So, good things to come for ball game against loaded and two outs in the tense moments for the got them out of there.” her. I’m excited to see her Lakeway Chris- top of the sixth inning that home team’s fans, the In further conversation career keep going.” tian last week. allowed Lakeway Christian reporter had noticed a with Brooke’s mom, she Brooke’s pitching coach Million got out to pull within one run of the woman watching the game said, “I played softball is Stephanie Sayne, who of a sixth inning Lady Rams. back at the area where in high school and then pitched for UT, her mom bases-loaded jam Million got out of the spectators pay to get in and I played for the Universi- noted. with GCA still jam when left fielder Haley after the game found out ty of Florida. I didn’t really “I was really nervous, but leading by one Brooks ran to catch a fly she was Brooke’s mother. get to play though. I wasn’t I tried to stay relaxed and run. Photo by ball that the next batter hit How tough was it for you that good. I was just on the Continue on page 2 Mark Cooper.

PREP TOURNEY ROUNDUP Seymour eyes record 32nd baseball victory By Steve Williams

Seymour High’s baseball team tied a school record for most wins in a season with its 5-1 victory over Sevier County in the District 2-AAA tournament championship game last week. Coach Kyle Koeneman’s Eagles will be trying to break the record with their 32nd win in their Region 1-AAA semifinal game tonight (May 17) against Tennessee High at Seymour. Sevier County will travel to Science Hill for its do or die semifinal contest. Seymour won three games in the district tourney to raise its record to 31-2. In other title games involving Class AAA local teams, Powell defeated Central 4-0 in District 3 and perennial state power Farragut came out of the losers’ bracket to beat Hardin Valley twice, 4-1 and 5-2, to claim another District 4 crown. The Hawks had defeated the Admirals 7-2 in the winners’ bracket finals. Powell will host Hardin Valley tonight at 6:30 in the Region 2 semifinals. Central will face a tough assign- ment at Farragut in the semis.

PHOTOS BY STEVE WILLIAMS Elsewhere, Pigeon Forge defeated host Gibbs 3-0 in the District 2-AA title game. New Webb School assistant coach Jerome Romain talks to one of his jumpers last week during the Division II Class A Region finalsin baseball and softball will be Wednes- East Region sectional meet at CAK. Romain was a Bronze Medal winner in the triple jump at the World Champion- day. ships in Sweden 1995 and a finalist at the Olympics in Atlanta in 1996.

SOFTBALL: Powell will be hosting William Blount tonight at 6 in the Region 2-AAA semifinals. The Pan- New Webb coach has a thers won the District 3 championship with a 2-0 win over Karns. Karns will play at Farragut at 5:30 in the other semi- star pupil in the making final game. The Lady Admirals walloped William Blount 17-0 in the District 4 finals. Bronze Medal winner is In the District 3-AA title game, Gibbs rolled past Romain was previously coaching at IMG Union County 12-0. The Eagles will host Fulton tonight coaching jumpers Academy in Bradenton, Fla., prior to his at 7 in the Region 2 semis, while Union County plays By Steve Williams move to Knoxville. “It was for family rea- at Alcoa. sons,” he said. The newest member of Webb School’s Romain’s two oldest daughters – Domi- BOYS SOCCER: Austin-East captured a district champi- track and field coaching staff has a world nique and Madison Romain – are track onship Thursday by outscoring Gatlinburg-Pittman 5-4 class background as an athlete. and field standouts at Hardin Valley Acad- on penalty kicks. The two teams battled to a 1-1 tie in Jerome Romain earned the Bronze emy. His youngest daughter, Simone, is regulation before going into overtime. Medal in the triple jump event at the World 11 years old and also athletic, although South-Doyle edged Central 2-1 in the District 4-AA Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden in soccer is mainly her sport right now, said Webb 8th grader Lennox title match, while Gibbs beat Claiborne 8-0 in the Dis- 1995 and was a finalist in the 1996 Olym- her dad. Langham races down the trict 3-AA finals. pics in Atlanta. Before coaching at IMG, Romain had runway to build up speed In Class AAA, Powell lost a 1-0 decision to Oak Ridge He started coaching the jumpers at been an assistant coach at the Universi- for her long jump in the in the District 3 championship game. Webb early this season. ty of Tennessee for five years (2009-14) Division II Class A East Re- Two other title matches – West at Bearden in Dis- It has become a win-win situation for under former men’s head coach J.J. Clark. gion Sectional Meet at CAK trict 2 and Hardin Valley at Farragut in District 4 – were both Romain and his new pupils at Webb. Continued on page 2 last week. scheduled to be played Friday night.

PRIDE OF THE PREPS IN 2017-18 PAGE B2 The Knoxville Focus May 17, 2021

Farragut coach praises Community College. When the Football Writ- x Ebbert and Foley At SHS, Kyle belted 18 ers Association of America home runs in one season selected a Quarter Centu- Farragut juniors Tyler and 50 in his prep career. ry All-SEC SPORTS Ebbert and Lexi Foley, win- At Walters State, he hit 29 team for n teb k ners of the 800-meter runs home runs in the 2008 the years in this year’s KIL Champion- season and 50 in his two- 1950-74 By Steve Williams ships, received praise from year junior college career in Decem- their coach, Chris Allison, (2008-09). ber 1975, Abby Diggs, a highly for their performances. the only By Tom decorated student-ath- “Tyler has been working unani- Ticket information on Mattingly lete at Fulton High School, very hard in the 400 and 2021 Spring Fling mous will soon be starting a 1600 before going back to selection was Douglas new chapter in her life at the 800 at the right time The 2021 TSSAA spring Leon Atkins of Humboldt, Maryville College. during the season,” said sports championships – Tenn., a legendary Vol from Diggs signed to play Allison. “He has also been better known as the Springthe years 1950 -52. tennis with the Scots working just not at running Fling – will be held May Not LSU’s Billy Cannon. PHOTO BY CHRISTY BROWN Wednesday in the Team the race but when to make 25-28 at multiple venues Not Tennessee’s John Room of the Jody Wright The Diggs family celebrates the tennis signing of Abby Diggs with Maryville College last moves and cover moves across Rutherford and Majors. Gymnasium. week at Fulton High School. From left are mom Sabrina, Abby, brother Adam and dad on him. He’s very dialed in Wilson counties. Not Alabama’s Lee Roy Abby was captain and a Steve. right now. Admission to a Spring Jordan. two-time All-District player “Lexi is peaking. She has Fling venue is $12. Tick- Not Mississippi’s Archie for Fulton, and also a three- Photography from the Ten- “But I do know I would the USA South Athletic Con- been a little banged up ets for each venue will be Manning. year member and captain nessee Technology Stu- like to help people,” she ference. Its women’s team from club soccer but has limited and must be pur- None of the usual sus- of the Lady Falcons’ soccer dent Association. She also said. had a 2-4 record this past put that to the side for now. chased in advance onlinepects. team, earning All-District is President of the Fulton What will be her greatest season, while the men’s She hasn’t been contest- through GoFan. No tickets Atkins got the nod, as a honors twice in that sport National Honor Society, memories of Fulton High? team was 1-3. All matches ed yet by anyone. It will be will be sold on site. Children towering presence on the as well. the Co-Chairman of Teen “There are so many for both teams were played interesting when she has 5 and older must purchasedefensive front for Gen. Diggs will be joining the Board Knoxville and a memories,” said Abby. against conference oppo- another girl or two next to a ticket. Bob Neyland at Tennessee, Maryville College tennis member of the FCA Lead- “I’ve developed a pretty nents. her in a race. She is very TSSAA Championship initially, and later for the program under Doug Cor- ership Team. good friend group here, so Corbett is excited to grow determined to challenge Event Cards, TACA cards, Chicago Bears and head bett, who was hired in April “Abby has really rep- every day is just a great the tennis program within anybody that toes the line TSSAA ID cards and TMSAA coach George Halas. to lead the men’s and wom- resented our school with memory.” the NCAA Division III ath- with her.” ID cards will not be accept- Atkins starred on Ten- en’s tennis programs. He class,” said Assistant Prin- She gave an example letic philosophy, said MC ed for admission. nessee teams that com- becomes Maryville Col- cipal and Athletic Director of one she’s not likely Director of Athletics Sara Seymour skipper still Schedules, brackets, ros-piled a 29-4-1 record and lege’s first full-time head Jody Wright at the signing. to forget. There are only Quatrocky, and he thinks holds HR records ters, links to ticket informa-played in the Cotton Bowl coach. “She’s the total package.” six students in her class there is a ton of potential tion and more can be found twice (1951, 1953) and In addition to her athlet- Wright also said Abby before lunch and they all to make significant strides Seymour High School at TSSAAsports.com. Live the Sugar Bowl (1952). He ic talents, Diggs’ achieve- “will be continuing a legacy go to lunch together. within both the men’s and baseball coach Kyle Koen- coverage of many Spring was a 1952 All-American ments in academics at at Maryville College” as her “We always sit at the women’s programs. eman was a home run slug- Fling events can be found selection, two-time All-SEC Fulton have been very brother Adam is a 2019 same table and the whole “I am really excited to ger in his playing days. at the same website, alongselection, and was select- impressive. She is the Vale- graduate and played quar- 30 minutes we don’t stop work with current and Koeneman, now in his with a live audio broadcast ed to the All-Time SEC Team dictorian of the Class of terback for the Scots. talking. I’d say that’s some future student-athletes sixth season as the Eagles’ Tuesday through Thurs-(1933-1982). The Vols were 2021 and was voted Miss Diggs is undecided of my favorite memories – and strive for a positive skipper, still holds the day with real-time updatesconsensus national cham- FHS. about her major and does just everyone being togeth- student-athlete experi- season and career records and reports from all sport pions in 1951. Abby recently won the not have any career aspira- er.” ence,” he said. for home runs at Seymour championships which can Atkins wore No. 91 on his state championship in tions at this time. Maryville College plays in High and Walters State be heard online. orange and white jersey, playing at 6-6, 225, accord- ing to game programs from the 1952 season. Those who lined up against him New Webb coach has a star pupil in the making would steadfastly maintain Continued from page 1 the ’96 Olympics, he didn’t get to He also had coached at Brown jump in the finals because he had University in the Ivy League suffered a knee injury. (2005-09). Romain’s newest pupil at Webb, FULFORD LEADS CAK: Ethan Ful- 8th grader Lennox Langham, had ford was a triple winner (pole an impressive performance in her vault, 100 hurdles and 300 hur- first-ever high school meet last dles) in leading Christian Acade- week as she took top honors in my of Knoxville to the boys’ team both the long jump and triple championship in the East Region jump in the TSSAA Division II sectional with 141.5 points. Class A East Region sectional CAK’s Malachi McNiel-Harrison meet at CAK. Ethan Fulford, CAK junior, and also had a notable victory as he Langham covered 17 feet, 3½ Silverdale senior Tyler Lansford soared to a winning mark of 6-2 inches, in the long jump – going are toe to toe as they come across in the high jump. almost two feet farther than her the hurdles in the 110-meter race Webb (138) and Notre Dame closest competitor. in the Division II Class A East (137) were a close second and “She is very strong,” said Coach Region sectional meet last week third in the team scoring. Romain. “Technically, we’ve got at Webb School. Fulford won in some stuff to work on. But she PHOTOS BY LUTHER SIMMONS a time of 16.18 seconds, while GRAVES PACES WEBB: has a lot of tools.” Fresh- Webb School senior Sophie Ades competes in the triple jump event last Lansford was clocked at 16.21. man Anna Graves swept the three Lennox said: “I think I did good. week in the Division II Class A East Region Sectional Meet at CAK. The two may get another chance dis