Discover Hancock County, Tennessee 2021

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DISCOVER

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HANCOCK VOLUME 6 — 2021

County T EN N ESSEE

Coach Brandon Gibbs Page 7

The Hurds Bluegrass Family page 15

Hancock County Children’s Outreach page 25

Friendly Farm, Making Farming Fun page 33

Ole Town Store page 42

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Discover Hancock County • 2021

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4 Discover Hancock County • 2021

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DISCOVER

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HANCOCK

County

Discover Hancock County is published by Hawkins County Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 100 | 316 East Main Street Rogersville, Tennessee 37857 www.therogersvillereview.com 423-272-7422

MANAGEMENT

Richard Clark

7 15

Coach Gibbs

25

Hancock County Children’s Outreach

33

Friendly Farm, Making Farming Fun

42

Ole Town Store

50

Advertisers

Advertising Director EDITORIAL

Randy Ball

Contributing Writer

Rita Dykes

Contributing Writer ADVERTISING

Abby Swearingen

Inside

The Hurds Bluegrass Family

Vintage, Antique, New Home Decor Local Hand-Crafted Items, Gifts and More!

Marketing Consultant

Ashley Pendleton

Marketing Consultant

Freda Turbyfill

Graphic Designer/ Production

Advertising rates and information available upon request.

Story suggestions, inquiries should be made to news@therogersvillereview.com © 2021 Hawkins County Publishers, Inc.

Discover Hancock County 2021 is a single-copy supplement to The Rogersville Review. Additional copies may be picked up at the Review office and are available at no cost. We will gladly mail at a cost of $4 per copy to cover the cost of postage and handling.

Copyright: 2021, Discover Hancock County 2021, Hawkins County Publishers, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the newspaper’s management. Reproduction of advertising and design work is strictly prohibited due to the use of licensed art services and agency agreements.

ON THE COVER: Elrod Falls — located just off Hwy 31 on Elrod Falls Road in Hancock County. Photo by Randy Ball Background photo

by Randy Ball

6 Discover Hancock County • 2021

COACH BRANDON GIBBS

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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T Coach Gibbs on fall Friday night in Sneedville

he Hancock County High School Indians began playing football in 2006. During the first ten seasons the team had four different head coaches. Brandon Gibbs became head coach in 2016 and has since become the longest tenured coach in the program’s history. Coach Gibbs readily admits that he had no ambitions toward being a high school football coach. His journey to Hancock County is an interesting story.

COACH Gibbs Background

Above: A yearbook photo of the future coach. Left: Brandon, the high school track/cross country star. — Courtesy photos

Coach Gibbs is originally from Baldwin County, Alabama. His introduction to east Tennessee came when his parents vacationed here while he was growing up, often camping in the mountains. Brandon did not play high school football, but excelled in cross country and track. He was ranked in the top twenty cross country runners in Alabama. His running ability led to a scholarship at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee. He earned All Gulf South Conference honors while running for LMU. He met his wife, Jana, while at LMU. Brandon worked toward a double major, athletic training and physical education, and his goal was to be a trainer. Brandon worked in student services at LMU for five years. He also coached men’s and women’s cross country. This work was sunup to sundown and weekends and the pay wasn’t too great. He decided to change directions and enrolled in the school’s post-baccalaureate teaching program to become certified to teach physical education. continued on page 9

8 Discover Hancock County • 2021

TWO BIG

Games!

iew.com www.therogersvillerev

MIDWEEK Edition

, September 28, 2016 Page 6A, Wednesday

t time, 36-0 rs fi r fo y b s o C ip h w s Indian

orial Dakota Blevins mem Indians pose with

BY ANGIE SEAL

SPECIAL TO THE REVIE

.

flag after the game

W

How do you fan the SNEEDVILLE – 36-0 se rivalry? With a flames of an inten shut out, that’s how! one in the record put ty Hancock Coun ry 11 years victo a with , night y book Friday win over the Cosb in the making. The first time in Indian Eagles came for the it was nothing short and football history, of magical. revving up of the If last week was a week they put the Tribe’s defense, this for l with six tackles pedal to the meta Seal, Caleb Zack and hire Seth Hips nd” Davis having “Frie in Aust Baker and half for Logan a and four and five tackles dRoper. with a quick in-an Cosby opened up stepped up to take r out, then Hancock followed Seal, Bake charge. The Tribe march up field. the in hire and Hips from quarterback Seal took a pitch clear pass to a fired and s Trevor Park touchdown.

Baker for the first cashed in on unex The Indians then Ethan Lawson and pected fortune as and ined for a safety comb t Ethan Shor lead. an 8-0 , got the ball back After the Indians the the end zone for Seal dashed into with Baker for the score and connected and 16-0 lead. n ersio conv r two point tackle Logan Rope Hancock defensive ered an Eagles’ fumsubsequently recov to the ball, once again, ble, returning the . team home

Planning on the sidelines. — Photo by Randy Ball

Trevor Parks (19)

looks to hand off

as Andrew Parson

ined for another Seal and Baker comb kicker Nathanael ns six points and India point for a 23-0 extra Seal secured the the first quarter. lead at the end of ter was a back and The second quar Tribe fumbled forth struggle. The yard from the goal possession only one and both teams on its first possession of penalties. mounted a string rs jumped in for an Safety Logan Selle as the clock ran out an interception and Cosby darted in for on the first half, own. interception of its

n (77) and Kaleb

(55), Dakota Gibso

Hipshire (60) block

underway with a The second half got ered an onside s deliv snag, as the Eagle the ball. kick and recovered sive line proved Hancock’s defen y ver, holding Cosb impenetrable, howe scoreless. was stopped, the After one possession finishing up a , Indians went to work touchdown of the h drive with the fourt on night. a second intercepti Sellers picked up 14 play and sprinted over on the following turned the ball yards. Hancock later

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se but the Indians defene. on two fumbles , into scoring rang refused Cosby entry final stand, as Zack The Tribe gave a Hipand gain rd 19-ya .

Seal picked up a for the touchdown on shire ran 12 yards a final extra point Nathanael Seal put over the Eagles. the epic 36-0 win best nal perso a Baker finished with a nomination for and 205 yards rushing r of the Week.

Lakeway Area Playe nal opponent Hancock hosts regio ol at this Friday’s Scho Concord Christian at 7 p.m.

Homecoming game

Checking the game-plan. — Photo by Randy Ball Left: A 36-0 thrashing of Cosby in 2016.

ANGIE SEAL

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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Above: The “Green-Out” game honoring Nathaneal Seal in 2019.

Left: The coach at an Indian football banquet.

— Courtesy photos

From page 7

The Road to Hancock County

Brandon finished the program at LMU and resigned his position with the school when he began his required student teaching. He was living in Morristown and applied for several teaching positions in the area. He remembers “I started doubting my decision to go into teaching, I couldn’t get an interview”.

Three days before the start of the school year, Brandon got a call from superintendent Mike Antrican in Hancock County. He interviewed for a physical education teaching position with “a

possibility to help coach football.” Shortly after the interview he was told “you’re hired”. He remembers that was on a Wednesday or Thursday, he started the next Monday.

Life as an Indian

After his hiring, Brandon served as an assistant football coach for eight years, 2008-2015. All the head coaches Brandon served with help shape him as a coach. ”Pat Lindelow was the coach my first three years, he was a good coach and demanded respect.” When Lindelow left Brandon continued on page 11

10 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Brandon and his wife Jana.

— Courtesy photo

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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The Gibbs family loves nature and the outdoors. — Courtesy photos From page 9

was approached about the head coaching job. He declined and remembers “I enjoyed being an assistant and never saw myself as a head coach.” Darrell Miller was hired as head coach, stayed two seasons and resigned. Phil Blevins coached the next three seasons.

When Blevins stepped down, Brandon was approached again about the head coaching job. After much thought and prayer, he took the job.

Head Coach

Brandon has been “Coach Gibbs” for the last five seasons.

Hancock County is a very small school as far as football is concerned. The team is often undermanned. Brandon says that “all the pieces move”…. players will be moved around due to injuries during the season. The team also recruits players who didn’t play in middle school. Despite all the obstacles, a few players from Hancock County have gone on to play college football. A.J. Arnold played at Anderson-Broaddus University in West Virginia. He was a receiver in high school and played safety in college. Logan Roper played at Earlham College in Indiana. Coach Gibbs remembers that he was very smart and played with good technique. Running back/linebacker Zack Seal walked on at Carson-Newman.

Coach Gibbs says he enjoys working with the guys, who are very respectful. The 2020 season was different than the others.

After spending the spring in the weight room, the season was in doubt due to COVID 19. The coach said “we weren’t as prepared as

normal for the season”, but he is grateful for the experience the team gained.

The goal is to have the school’s first winning season. Coach Gibbs has a three part The coach is an avid fisherman . plan to reach this goal; 1) Increase the number of players in the Indian roster 2) Recruit good athletes 3) Players, parents and the community need to be more committed to developing players “Players need to commit to working to individually improve, be competitors….change the culture and work hard.”

Personal Side

Coach Gibbs and his wife Jana in live in Morristown. She is a Med Tech Supervisor with Quest Labs in Knoxville. They have two children, Mackenzie (17) and Blake (11). He enjoys fly fishing and watching college football, especially Alabama. His family enjoys hiking, camping and anything outdoors. The coach’s spiritual live is very important to him and he serves as an officer at Faith Baptist Church.

— By Randy Ball

12 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Clinch River — Photo by Randy Ball

Hancock County Schools Proudly Serving Hancock County’s Students in Grades PreK-12.

CharloƩe Mullins, Director BOARD MEMBERS Jack Mullins, Chairman David Jones, Vice Chairman Dennis Holt Jerry Hopkins Kyle Livesay Freddie Mullins Jamie Stanifer 418 Harrison Street | Sneedville, TN 37869 | Office • 423-733-2591 | Fax • 423-733-8757

www.hancockcountyschools.com

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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14 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Rhonda, Ronnie, Matthew and Dwight Hurd singing at Bellamy’s in Surgoinsville, TN, 2014.

— Photo Courtesy of Rhonda Hurd

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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The entire Hurd musical family: front row, Rhonda, Matt, Cheyenne and Debbie. Back row, Ronnie, Dwight, Clint and Josh.

— Photo by Randy Ball

The HURDS BLUEGRASS FAMILY Bluegrass music is a part of life in the mountains of east Tennessee. Bluegrass music is in the blood of Hancock County’s Hurd family. From porch-pickers to local bands to performing with legends to the Grand Ole Opry, the Hurd family has not only preserved the music, but has passed it on from generation to generation.

Brothers Ronnie and Dwight Hurd grew up in the Eidson community of Hancock County. In 1979 they started to play bluegrass music, Ronnie was on bass and Dwight on guitar and lead vocals. Music was a part of the family’s heritage, Dwight remembers “Grandma’s brother (Luther Hilton), played as did some of the cousins”.

They soon formed The Bluegrass Partners, which included Luther Helton (guitar), David Hilton (banjo), D. H. Hurd (mandolin), and Carl Poff (fiddle). Poff would later be replaced

by Rick Campbell, and Duel Hilton would later play mandolin

with the group. The group usually practiced about three times a week. Ronnie remembers that “We had a ball getting together and playing.”

The Bluegrass Partners soon developed a local following, which led them to shows and festivals throughout the region. As with many bands, personnel changes were something Ronnie and Dwight had to deal with. Dwight said “Luther Helton said he was too old and went home. The late Larry Carter of Tazewell helped us a lot…. He played banjo, guitar and sang.”

As the Bluegrass Partners continued performing, many accomplished local musicians were a part on the band. Danny Dalton filled in for about a year and a half, playing banjo and dobro. Dwight remembers “We had several banjo players.” In 1983 Walter Sickman became the first regular banjo player for the group, until he returned home to Texas. In 1984 Herschel continued on page 16

16 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Ronnie and Dwight Hurd in the early days.

1983 fire department fundraiser.

From page 15

Partners produced three recordings, two in 1982 and another in 1985. Ronnie summed up this time in his life; “We were blessed to be around good musicians.”

After a long successful run with the Bluegrass Partners, the group evolved into The Hurd Family. Dwight said of his two sons; “the boys (Matthew and Clint) were growing up.” The natural next step was to play as a family. Clint started playing at the age of six. Matthew took a little longer to commit to music. An aspiring athlete, he played basketball in high school until a broken ankle sidelined him. Dwight remembers “he picked up a guitar and didn’t look back.”Ronnie and Rhonda’s son Josh played bass with Clint and Matt. Dwight’s daughter Cheyenne joined in the family

Williams replaced Sickman. Josh (banjo) and Randall (fiddle) McMurray spent time as Bluegrass Partners. The band stayed busy in the 1980s and 1990s. Dwight said “It was music every Saturday, we played about thirty shows a year.” Ronnie remembers they played shows in Tennessee, Virginia, Arkansas, and Kentucky, and “we had our own shindig here in the valley.”

One of the brothers’ best memories during this time was when the Bluegrass Partners opened for Bill Monroe in Bristol in 1986.

Dwight actually got to sing with Monroe on the Bristol show, and would sing with him several on several other shows. In 1983 Bluegrass Unlimited did an article on the group. The Bluegrass

1986, Bill Monroe, Matt and Dwight. Monroe gave Matt a quarter.

Photos courtesy of Rhonda Hurd

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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Bluegrass Partners, around 1983. Front row, Dwight and Ronnie Hurd. Back row, Rhonda Hurd, Duel Hilton, David Hilton, and Walter Sickman.

From page 16

music tradition. Ronnie and Rhonda’s daughter, Debbie, also inherited the music gene, singing with the family.

The younger Hurds’ group eventually turned into The Dry Valley Grass, which consisted of Matthew and Clint, Josh and Debbie, along with Rusty Ferrell on banjo. Debbie remembers a highlight with The Dry Valley Grass; they opened a show for Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver and Rhonda Vincent and the Rage.

With the kids doing their own music, Dwight and Ronnie continued to play selected performances as the Hurd Family.

Joined by Rhonda in 1985, they still play occasionally in the area.

Rhonda said “Josh isn’t doing much music these days, but Debbie is very involved with music at Maple Hill Baptist Church.”

Matt remembers the Hurd offspring’s first public performance. “It was at our shindig in the valley, we did “Take me Home Country Roads.” In the 1990s they started playing on the show at Horton’s Store. Clint and Matt played with many groups. Clint and Rusty Ferrell played at area fiddle contests together. Matt would join them and they would “play all night at Horton’s store.” Clint played with Chip McLain in 2006. Clint, Matt and Josh spent some time with T.J. Rogers, including some continued on page 19

1985 album cover, Herschel Williams on banjo.

Photos courtesy of Rhonda Hurd

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Dwight with Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley and others.

Ciderville Music Barn, Clinton, TN 1982.

Photos courtesy of Rhonda Hurd

The Bluegrass Partners at Rogersville Middle School, 1984.

Dwight singing with Bill Monroe, 1984.

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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1996 Barn Shindig.

The Dry Valley Grass, 2008, Debbie, Rusty Ferrell, Clint, Josh and Matt.

Photos courtesy of Rhonda Hurd

From page 17

shows in Texas. Some others they played with include Rough Edges, Cumberland Gap Connection, Tommy Freeman and Tony Mowell. Clint was playing with Steve Gulley until Gulley’s unexpected illness and passing. He has played with Dale Ann Bradley. He also logged some with the group Newtown. One of his career highlights was playing on the Grand Ole Opry twice

while with Bradley’s group. Clint now freelances with many well-known artists. Matt now plays with The Flying J’s. Matt now plays the dobro much of the time, he says out of necessity... “everybody else plays guitar”.

The younger Hurd brothers’ musical story is still being written. They already have many memories about music. Matt continued on page 20

20 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Dry Valley Grass at Bluegrass on Broad, Kingsport, 2008.

Horton’s Store, 2006.

Clint playing with Newtown, 2013. — Photo by Bob Compere From page 19

said “the music means a lot to us because of our Papaw’s love of the music of Bill Monroe”. Clint added “Every time we play it means a lot to our papaw that we play the old style”.

He remembers “Papaw let me lay out of school to learn Sweet Blue Eyed Darling.” Dwight remembers the brotherly love of his two sons….”Clint wanted to learn the Tony Rice version of Muleskinner Blues. I told I would buy him a Martin guitar when he did. Two days later he played it for me over the phone, but he

said Matt will need a guitar before I will.”

For the future, Matt said “I’m looking forward to passing it on to the next generation.” Ronnie added “All through the years I’ve enjoyed playing, but I enjoy it now because it’s family. It makes me proud to get together with family. It’s in the blood, the love of bluegrass music.”

— By Randy Ball

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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Above: The current Hurd Family band: Ronnie, Rhonda and Dwight.

Left: The members of The Dry Valley Grass: Clint, Matt, Debbie and Josh.

Special thanks to Rhonda Hurd for photos and help with this article.

Matt’s CD “As Best We Can”

“

All through the years I’ve enjoyed playing, but I enjoy it now because it’s family. It makes me proud to get together with family. It’s in the blood, the love of bluegrass music.”

— Ronnie Hurd

22 Discover Hancock County • 2021

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1498 Newman’s Ridge Rd • P.O. Box 202 Sneedville, TN 37869

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The River Bluff

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The River Bluff Lodge features seven bedrooms, six baths and is perched on a bluff overlooking Clinch River, in rural Sneedville, TN. Located in Historic Hancock County in Northeast Tennessee, we have some of the most beautiful views and abundant wildlife in the state. From our wrap-around porch, you can see for miles. This is a a great place to bring your family!

Directions: From Morristown or Rogersville, turn on Hwy. 31 from 11W. Go about 17 miles and turn right onto Duck Creek Road. Go 1/2 mile and turn onto River Bluff Drive.

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Go past the boat ramp and turn left onto Duck Creek Road.

Continue 1/2 mile and turn left on River Bluff Drive.

556 River Bluff Drive • Sneedville TN 37869 • 423-300-9283

Authorized Dealer

— Photo by Randy Ball

Gary W. Hicks, Jr.

Hancock Farmers Mon.-Fri.: 8-4:30 • Sat. 8-Noon 192 Jail Street • Sneedville TN

423-733-2255

www.hancockfarmerscoop.com

The Hancock County Sheriff asks all citizens to work with local the Police Department and Sheriff’s Department in fighting crime.

Report violations. Information will be kept confidential.

Either call 911 or the Sheriff’s Department

423-733-2250 or 733-4475 or 733-2249.

We urge everyone to be safe in your daily activities and especially safe when driving.

Thank you, Sheriff Brad Brewer

265 New Jail Street • Sneedville, Tennessee 37869

State Representative It is an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Hancock and Hawkins Counties.

425 5th Avenue North, Suite 640, Cordell Hull Bldg.

Nashville, TN 37243 Phone 615-741-7480 • Fax 615-253-0307

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Discover Hancock County • 2021

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2020 CHILD AMBASSADOR, GREYSON HOPKINS — Photo courtesy of Hancock County Children’s Outreach

Discover Hancock County • 2021

HANCOCK COUNTY

Children’s Outreach J

ust three short years ago, Dianne Bartlett was led by God to start an outreach program to help the children of Hancock County. At the time, she was helping with a similar program called Help 4 Kids in Swannanoa, NC. Help 4 Kids was founded by two sisters in 1988 just after hurricane Hugo crashed into the shores and town of Myrtle Beach, SC. The sisters packed their truck full of food and water and set out to help children affected by the hurricane. Dianne said that seed planted by the sisters, though God’s direction, made Hancock County Children’s Outreach possible. Dianne said, “I do believe that we are just another branch of the vine. My wish is that, from our service, more organizations in other areas will sprout.”

Being raised as the daughter of a firefighter, Dianne learned at a young age how important it was to give back to others. As she grew into adulthood, she began to see needs within her

community. She soon met Donna Wright and began working with Donna and her family to help children in need. While giving back to her community, Dianne quickly realized that people in other parts of the country needed help too, and that is when God pointed her in the direction of Sneedville.

Dianne moved to Sneedville on March 18, 2018 and began to work immediately on serving those in her new community. “I was working with Help 4 Kids in Swannanoa, before I even knew Sneedville existed. Everyone at Help 4 Kids began praying that God would open our eyes to children in need who we could be of service to, and the rest is history,” Dianne recalled.

The objectives of Hancock County Children’s Outreach include but are not limited to the following services: • Providing clothing, school supplies, continued on page 27

DIANNE BARTLETT

25

26 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Kathy Ramsey helping with donations.

Tiffany Williams sorting donations.

Volunteers, Mary and Tiffany Williams.

Dustin Mullins and Aaron Delph stacking donated mattresses.

To keep up-to-date on the program’s needs and other ways to serve, follow Hancock County Children’s Outreach on Facebook.

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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Bags of gifts for 349 smiling faces. — Photos courtesy of Hancock County Children’s Outreach.

From page 25

hygiene items, and food to disadvantaged children, teens, and their families; • Providing opportunities for children and their families to learn skills to help them function as a healthy household; • Sponsoring, hosting, and participating in events and activities that promote health, wellness, and safety of children and their families; • Spreading Christmas cheer while gifting items for disadvantaged children and families; • Providing opportunities for spiritual growth through Christian fellowship events and functions.

The organization has three major programs each year and are hoping to add more as time goes on. The first program is during the Easter season when baskets are given out. Last year, 352 baskets went into the hands of children throughout the county.

The second program is providing backpacks that are filled with grade-specific items and back-to-school clothing. Most clothing bags include two pairs of pants, two shirts, a hoodie, a coat, gloves,

shoes, socks, underwear, and a hat. Their last major program comes at Christmas time. Last Christmas, with the help of area churches and other organizations, 349 children in Hancock County received gifts.

The outreach program does not stop with large events. Help is provided throughout the entire year as needs continued on page 28

Backpacks ready for the children.

28 Discover Hancock County • 2021

“

... most of our board members came to Children’s Outreach through the direction of God. Their faith and desire to follow God’s call lead them to Hancock County Children’s Outreach.

Kynlynn and Mackenzy Haase opening their Christmas gifts.

From page 27

arise. During the colder months, blankets and heaters are given to families who need them. Beds are also sometimes given to families with the help of Ashley Furniture. The organization is hopeful and prayerful that they will be able to begin more food services as well. This year, an Easter dinner for 200+ families is in the works; however, more donations are needed to fulfill this need. The goal for the Easter dinners is to give each family on the list a ham, two cans of green beans, biscuit mix, a dozen eggs, a bag of potatoes, and a dessert. When a need is presented, Children’s Outreach tries their best to meet it.

The first Christmas give-a-way in Hancock County presented many challenges. Dianne began calling area churches for assistance in gathering names, items, and most importantly a space to serve as a distribution center for the Christmas give-a-way. Fran and Larry Haase and their family stepped up and offered their help and the use of Goins Chapel’s fellowship hall. Fran and Larry now serve on the board of Children’s Outreach and continue to be very involved with the program.

”

— Dianne Bartlett

Current board member, Ryan Martin, spoke with Hancock County officials about the need of a space to house a donation collection and distribution center for Children’s Outreach. The county graciously presented Children’s Outreach with a building to utilize. Dianne said, “I don’t know what we would have done if that hadn’t happened. We were in the building at 10 a.m. the first day and by 3 p.m. we received our first shipment of donations and began filling backpacks.”

Bernice Collins, also lead by God, stopped by the Children’s Outreach that first day. After a few minutes of watching volunteers fill backpacks, she told Dianne to hold on a second, she went outside and told her family to come back later that she had work to do. Every since that day, Bernice not only fills a spot on the board, her and her family continue to chip in and help out on a regular basis.

Dianne said, “Just like Fran, Larry, Ryan, and Bernice, most of our board members came to Children’s Outreach through the direction of God. Their faith and desire to follow God’s call lead them to Hancock County Children’s Outreach. I don’t know what we would have done without them.”

The organization has recently received its 501(c)(3) governmental non-profit status, which will allow them to apply for grants to bring more services to people in the area. The goal of Children’s Outreach is to serve even more needs in the community, including helping parents and their adult children access training for a variety of jobs. Obtaining grants can make training and additional programs a reality.

Dianne and the board of directors would like to send out special thanks to all of the volunteers who work tirelessly to fulfill the needs of their community. This includes Barb Manis, the founder of Help 4 Kids in Conway, SC and Help 4 Kids & Backpack Buddies – Feeding The Children of Horry County. Dianne said, ”Without the help of our volunteers and these two organizations, we would not be able to do half of what we are doing.” Children’s Outreach also wants to thank Donna Wright, Wanda Wall, and their volunteers in Swannanoa, NC for loading trailers with items to be brought back to Hancock County as well as Andy Hollifield, driver and evangelist, who picks up donations and makes sure everything is unloaded when he arrives in Sneedville. Ryan Martin has also been a huge help and a driving force behind-the-scenes.

Last but not least, they’d like to thank Goins Chapel Church, a small church with a huge heart.

— By Rita Dykes

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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Hancock County Children’s Outreach Board Members Dedicated to Serving the Community

Dianne Bartlett, Chairman of the Board

Ryan Martin, Vice Chairman of the Board

Board member, Frann Haase, looking over the new donations.

Board Member, Kathy Ramsey-Gibson

Dianne Bartlett, Chairman Ryan Martin, Vice Chairman Bernice Collins, Secretary Fran Haase, Treasurer Kathy Gibson, Board Member Larry Haase, Board Member and Chaplin Jerry Collins, Board Member and Building Manager

Jeremy and Bernice Collins.

Bernice is the board secretary.

Jeremy and Jerry Collins. Jerry is a board member and the building manager.

Donations are always welcomed for Hancock County Children’s Outreach Clothing, household items (including furniture and appliances), and monetary contributions are always welcomed and never turned away. Donations of new clothes for older and larger children are in high need during back-to-school time, so keep that in mind if you would like to give to that program.

All donations can be made at the office on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 147 Court Street in Sneedville.

Donations can also be mailed anytime to:

Larry and Fran Haase. Larry is the Chaplin. Fran is treasurer.

Missionary Andy Hollifield

Hancock County Children’s Outreach 133 Camps Circle Sneedville, TN 37869

30 Discover Hancock County • 2021

We are proud to live and work in the Rogersville community.

100 Baldor Drive | Rogersville, TN 37857 | 423-235-1550 | www.abb.com

Harrison’s Farm & Home Supply

We carry everything you need for Home Improvement: Lumber • Doors • Windows • Flooring • Roofing WE CARRY APPLIANCES! HOT POINT • LG • GE • BOSCH • FRIGIDAIRE • SAMSUNG Check out our website:

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Phil Harrison, Owner Main Street • Sneedville, TN 37869

423-733-2958

Greene’s IGA Super Market 138 Jail Street • Sneedville, TN 37869

423- 733-4218

Mahala Mullins Cabin — Photo by Randy Ball

Large Selection of

Wine & Spirits 423-393-1166

Personal & Business Banking

Putting customers first to build relationships that last.

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4017 Hwy. 66, Suite A Hwy. 66 Plaza Rogersville Store Hours: Monday — Thursday 9am to 8pm Friday — Saturday 9am to 9pm

Discover Hancock County • 2021

31

McNeil Funeral Home We offer a complete range of high quality, affordable service options to assist you during your time of need.

Traditional Funerals • Memorials • Cremation Pre-Planning Services • Grief Support 124 Church Street • Sneedville, TN

423-733-2246

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Close to Rogersville and Morristown

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Call 423-921-8424 ... or check our web page at www.bbonline.com/united-states/tennessee/mooresburg/homeplace.html

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Givens-Nelson Realty offers extensive knowledge of local real estate market and financial resources available.

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Small Animals: Goats, Sheep, Chickens, Rabbits

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Affiliate Broker 423-921-2639

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Affiliate Broker 423-391-5054

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The Moore’s don’t stop with providing the community a fun-filled place to visit. They also give back by raising funds for local non-profits, participating in community events, and donating farm-fresh goods when possible.

Homeschool day learning to milk a goat.

www.friendlyfarm4fun.com

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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Friendly Farm Making Farming Fun

R

etired educator, Jodie Moore, and her three sons, CJ, John, and Hunter, moved to Hancock County in 2017 to pursue their dream. The family had leased a parcel of farmland in Blount County a few years prior and fell in love with all of the benefits of living off the land.

Jodie and her boys searched for their perfect piece property to purchase for several years afterward. They finally ventured across Clinch Mountain and found their little slice of heaven that they now call Friendly Farm. Jodie said, “We searched for the right property at the right price, and this was it! It is a long way away from people, but the visitors say the drive is part of the experience. Most people have no idea that true rural life actually exists.”

Jodie began exploring farming as a way to support her family and to provide a business for the boys as they advanced into adulthood. Now, the entire family is achieving that goal as they continue building on a successful farm life. Not only does the

family work together on the daily farm chores, but each one brings their own unique skills to their business, which includes both farming and events. CJ, who is now an adult, has taken on a great deal of the business. He is currently working on advancing their farm-raised meat brand, Rebel Hollow.

CJ also plays a key role in raising the goats, pigs, and sheep. John, 16, is working on a line of fiber with his Finnsheep while Hunter, age 12, enjoys working to perfect the blend of agriculture and tourism. Jodie’s specialty is educating and entertaining the farm’s visitors. Jodie spent the better part of her adulthood teaching in the school system and in her private tutoring company, Helping Hands Enrichment. Her love for teaching led her to sharing her farm with others.

Friendly Farm hosts many events including its Sunflower Festival, which showcases a glorious field full of brightly-colored continued on page 34

34 Discover Hancock County • 2021 From page 33

flowers loved by both children and adults. Another fun-filled event in the fall is Friendly Farm’s pumpkin patch. Holidays also never fail to wow visitors. After all, how many chances do you get to meet Santa or the Easter Bunny while also petting a sweet lamb, baby goat, chick, or piglet? If you have a child who loves animals, a Friendly Farm birthday party just might be the perfect surprise for your little one. The beautiful flowers, pumpkin patches, and animal cuddles aren’t just for children either; families, church groups and business groups have also been known to gather at the farm. Camping spots will be available this spring to allow visitors a taste of farm life while spending a few days basking in the beauty of their surroundings.

The farm also features a store where orders can be placed on their website. Pasture-raised pork, 100% grass-fed lamb, beef, freerange chicken eggs, goat’s milk lotion, goat’s milk soap, and more are featured in the store. In season, strawberries and blackberries adorn the farm and are available for picking. The family also continues to add products to the farm as time progresses. For example, peach trees have been planted, and herdshare goat’s milk and cheese will

“We are rural, peaceful, and try very hard to make your event the best it can be.”

— Jodie Moore

Piglet cuddles.

Friendly Farm makes birthdays special with its traveling petting zoo.

Petting the goats.

Discover Hancock County • 2021 be added soon. Jodie said, “The farm grows and changes as time goes on as we see a need or the boys develop an interest.”

The Moore’s don’t stop with providing the community a funfilled place to visit. They also give back by raising funds for local non-profits, participating in community events, and donating farm-fresh goods when possible.

If quiet time away from your daily routine sounds like a great way to spend a day, Friendly Farm is nestled in the breath-taking beauty of Hancock County and just might be your answer. If events are more your style, be sure to follow the farm on Facebook or visit its web page at friendlyfarm4fun.com to find an event to enjoy.

While visiting the farm, you will also be visiting a place where an episode of the Emmy Award-winning television show, Tennessee’s Wild Side, was filmed. The fun just never stops at Friendly Farm.

— By Rita Dykes

Friendly Farm 1104 Rebel Hollow Road Tazewell, TN 37879

865-247-1874

friendlyfarm63@gmail.com

Goat cuddles.

Baby chick cuddles.

Laney keeping a piglet warm at the Karns Christmas parade.

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36 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Festival goer enjoying farm fresh sunflowers.

Mother and son gathering pumpkins at the farm’s Pumpkin Festival.

Field of beautiful sunflowers on Friendly Farm.

Discover Hancock County • 2021

37

What visitors had to say about their experience at Friendly Farm.

“Newborns, baby everything- whats not to recommend? It was precious!!”

— Stephanie Kinsler-Pawlicki “I visited recently and had the best time! So much fun getting to snuggle all those precious babies. I will be back!”

— Angie Fleenor “Such a great experience! The baby goat cuddling was just adorable and lots of fun. And it’s a beautiful drive to the farm so it was overall a lovely day.”

— Laura Clift

Just a girl and her pig — Jodie Moore.

Friendly Farm’s Easter Extravaganza Join in the fun at noon on April 3, 2021 with an Easter Egg Hunt, Easter crafts, and all kinds of farm animals! Baby animal cuddles may also be part of your Easter fun on the farm!

Visit our Farm Store for homemade goat’s milk lotion and soap, fresh grass-fed meats and more.

“We really enjoyed our experience! The sunflowers were absolutely beautiful and that’s where we spent most of our time.

Our kids very much enjoyed being greeted by so many dogs and goats when we got out of the car! The kids loved that!”

— Shannon Hill “We went to Friendly Farm’s home school event and had a lot of fun. We got to go on a hay ride around all the animal attractions and to a pumpkin patch. We enjoyed baby and full grown farm animals, lots of sweet dogs, and a fun games area. I hope we can come back next year with the rest of our family!”

— Jillian Gorrell

38 Discover Hancock County • 2021

If quiet time away from your daily routine sounds like a great way to spend a day, Friendly Farm is nestled in the breath-taking beauty of Hancock County and just might be your answer.

“Our primary care is people” SERVING THE HEALTHCARE NEEDS OF HANCOCK COUNTY Family Medicine Family Dental Care Preventative Care Imaging & Diagnostics

James Brad Cantrell, DMD • Lisa Trent, FNP • Vincent Bergamon, FNP

Sneedville Medical Center

A Division of Rural Health Services Consortium, Inc.

1861 Main Street Sneedville, TN 37869

423-733-2131

Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm Walk-ins Accepted We offer dental services!

Discover Hancock County • 2021

Two-Bits, the pony.

Bobby, the Jersey bull calf.

39

A ewe and her lamb.

Far left: Ashe and Buddy guarding the farm.

Left: The infamous Moo Moo takes the prize as the most photographed pig on the farm.

Mark Albert Skelton Amy Kathleen Skelton

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40 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Come see what Senior Living can be like!

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We offer over 150 programs that prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or start a job after graduation.

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423-581-7075

regencymorristown.com

Rogersville Coin & Jewelry Exchange Guiding you through one of life’s most difficult experiences since 2001 Locally owned by Chris Christian and James Sells

Voted BEST of the BEST ten years in a row.

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423-272-0555

24-Hour Obituary Line: 423-272-2244 www.christiansells.com

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Discover Hancock County • 2021

— Photo by Randy Ball

Better hearing for a better life

Dr. Alison Whittle Audiologist

A Division of Ear, Nose and Throat Consultants of East Tennessee

Over 30 years of experience ... a tradition of trust and hard work!

2412 West A.J. Hwy. Morristown, TN

423.585.7438

www.phctennessee.com

1111 E. Main St. • Rogersville, TN 37857

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42 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Discover Hancock County • 2021

Ole Town Store Vintage, Antique, New Home Decor, Local Hand-Crafted Items, Gifts, and More!

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44 Discover Hancock County • 2021

“We absolutely love the area, the peace and beauty is unbeatable. The community is outstanding with such friendly and supportive folk and so many we are proud to call our friends. We definitely picked the perfect place to call home!”

SHAWN AND KAREN HUNT

Discover Hancock County • 2021

45

Ole Town Store M

ichigan natives Shawn and Karen Hunt fulfilled their dream of living in Northeast Tennessee when they purchased their home in 2017 in the heart of Hancock County. The couple have since put down roots, developed friendships, and now showcase the area’s most talented crafters at their establishment, Ole Town Store.

Shawn is a retired process engineer and is currently a Realtor who helps other people’s dreams come true by finding them their perfect home or property. Karen continues her service to the public as a Registered Nurse working in hospice care. Luckily, she was able to transfer and work from her home after they made the move. Karen said, “This allowed a very easy transition for the move, and we feel very blessed.” Because of their excellent work schedules, the couple have been able to pursue their other dream in the newly-opened Ole Town Store. Karen’s prior experience of owning a small gift store in Michigan has also been a great advantage as she and Shawn have embarked on their new adventure.

The location of the store has housed several businesses in the past, including a government outreach organization, a car dealership, and an auto parts store. Eventually, the building became empty and remained empty for several years until Shawn and Karen chose the

space for their business. Karen said that the open concept, size, and location of the space were all perfect for what they had envisioned.

Since it was in need of some TLC, many repairs and updates have been made to restore the building to its original beauty, like the gorgeous replica of an old wooden quilt on the exterior. The quilt was replicated by Harrison Graham Campbell, the grandson of the previous owner of the building, TJ Harrison, who was a predominant member of the community.

The name of the store was chosen in keeping with the rich heritage of Hancock County while also speaking to the items sold in the store. Ole Town Store features new and vintage home decor, gorgeous antiques, refinished and refurbished furniture, and many unique hand-crafted items from local artisans. The space is filled with shelving that is rented to those wishing to showcase and sell their items. Karen said, “We want to continue growing the business to provide a local place for the community to shop. There are many very talented people here, and the store provides everyone a place to sell their hand-made items. In addition, I am fulfilling my dream of having a place to feature my own hobby of refinishing vintage and continued on page 47

46 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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From page 45

antique furniture. Shawn also enjoys building things and woodworking, a craft he learned from his grandfather.” The beautifully hand-crafted counter in the store was a labor of love by Shawn. He spent many hours transforming locally grown cedar into the masterpiece that is the perfect addition to the space.

Sneedville’s fall festival is always a favorite event that features local crafters. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the 2020 fall festival was canceled. The cancellation just fueled Shawn and Karen to work harder to get the store open. The couple opened on October 1, 2020, just in time for the fall season.

Shawn and Karen strive to keep their prices lower than most other retailers. “The store is not our “living.” It is our participation in the community. The kind words spoken from locals of having such a store in the town makes it all worth it!” Karen added, “Of course, we encourage shopping local, and we want everyone’s business, as this is what allows us to have the store and crafters here.”

When Shawn or Karen can’t be at the store during operating hours, vendors are always willing to chip in and pick up the slack. Ole Town Store vendor Barbara Cannon said, “This is a wonderful thing to bring to our community. It lets people like Bill and I display and sell our products.” The vendors aren’t the only ones that love the store; shopper Mona Maloney said, “I love shopping here or just browsing through the shop. Karen and Shawn are great people, and very friendly. They make you feel like you have known them for years. I really like the homemade items from different vendors, but my favorite is the antique furniture. Karen does a fantastic job refinishing.”

Stop in and visit the folks at Ole Town Store at 1097 Main Street in Sneedville and take home a unique piece or one-of-a-kind gift for a special person in your life. The store is currently open: Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also visit their Facebook page and see what treats await you in the store.

— By Rita Dykes

Mechelle Collins at the Grand Opening.

Ole Town Store

1097 Main Street Sneedville, TN 37869

48 Discover Hancock County • 2021

Discover Hancock County • 2021

49

“Love this store. Awesome Crafts.

Friendly and very helpful.”

- Margie Hickman “Ole Town Store is my favorite store here in our little town. It is the perfect mix of antiques, new merchandise, and products made by our local artisans. I love that OTS give our locals a venue to display and sell their hand crafted goods. Plus a smiling face always greets you when you come through the door!”

– Sybil Reynolds Bell “It has been so wonderful to welcome Ole Town Store to our small town community. Karen and Shawn are wonderful people, both started as clients of mine and have become friends. I’m so proud of their efforts to give our county a new store. Ole Town Store is clean, nice, and a friendly atmosphere to purchase local homemade goods. I speak on Hancock County’s behalf, I applaud their efforts and success of Ole Town Store.”

– Sierra Ramsey

50 Discover Hancock County • 2021

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ABB .....................................................................................30 Blue Ridge Package ..................................................... 30 Christian-Sells Funeral Home................................... 40 City of Sneedville............................................................ 4 Civis Bank ........................................................................ 30 Creek Country Real Estate ......................................... 52 Cynthia Bundren Jackson Realty............................. 41 Edde Chevrolet Company, Inc. ................................ 13 Fathom Realty TN, LLC ................................................ 23 Gary W. Hicks, Jr., State Representative ................ 22 Gibsons Tax Service .................................................... 22 Givens-Nelson Realty, Inc. ......................................... 31 Grayson Subaru............................................................... 3 Greene’s IGA ................................................................... 30 Greene’s Tractor Company, LLC ............................... 23 Hancock County Schools........................................... 12 Hancock County Sheriff ............................................. 22 Hancock Farmers Co-op............................................. 22

Hancock Manor Health & Rehabilitation ............. 23 Harrison’s Farm & Home Supply.............................. 30 Home Place B&B............................................................ 31 Justice Stoneworks, LLC ............................................. 39 Mark A. Skelton, Attorney at Law............................ 39 McNeil Funeral Home ................................................. 31 Overhome Cabins ........................................................ 22 Physicians Hearing Care............................................. 41 Regency Retirement Village ..................................... 40 Rogersville Coin & Jewelry Exchange ................... 40 Skelton Law Racing...................................................... 51 Smith-Turner Drug Store.............................................. 4 Sneedville Medical Center ........................................ 38 The Shepherd’s Corner ................................................. 4 United Country Real Estate / Clinch Mountain Realty and Auction .................... 2 Walters State Community College ......................... 40 Wholesale Liquidation................................................ 31

— Photo by Randy Ball

Discover Hancock County • 2021

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2 21 SERIES PHIPPS BEND RIVER RUN Saturday, March 13, 8:00am 10 Mile Trail Race Phipps Bend TCAT - Surgoinsville

SFTC Long Distance Series SFTC Trail Series Competition SFTC King & Queen Competition RRCA TN State Cross Country Championship

LAUREL RUN ASCENT Saturday, April 10, 8:00am 11 Mile Trail Race Laurel Run Park – Church Hill SFTC Long Distance Series SFTC Trail Series Competition SFTC King & Queen Competition

AMIS MILL 10K Saturday, June 5, 8:00am Amis Mill Eatery – Rogersville SFTC King & Queen Competition

BAYS MOUNTAIN TRAIL RACE Saturday, September 18, 8:00am 15 Mile Trail Race Bays Mountain Park – Kingsport SFTC Long Distance Series SFTC Trail Series Competition SFTC King & Queen Competition

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For information, contact… RRCA Certied Race Director Mark Skelton 423.272.4812 (ofce) | markskelton@markskelton.com | www.RunTriCities.org

Law Office of Mark A. Skelton Serving East Tennessee Since 1983

Consumer Bankruptcy • Social Security Disability Adoption, Divorce & Family Law • Estate Planning & Probate

Family, Real Estate & Your Gold!

Our real estate is as precious to us as gold, maybe even more, a valuable treasure. Whether purchased or inherited it is held for a season, and developed and cared for at great sacrice over entire lifetimes to eventually deliver important benets and needs to our generations. It is one of the truly valuable gifts we provide when our season comes to bless our posterity, either in the transference of the land itself, or by what the sale can bring in nances to multiple heirs. It is worth protecting and being careful when it is bought or sold.

What may be a chore to you in maintaining the holding of your real estate could be the dream of another family. You might want a new lifestyle yourself in this present time of need, to increase your estate, or to use your wisdom to establish where nances should go to your heirs. Sadly, we have too often witnessed the confusion, and sometimes great heartache, when the heirs cannot agree 100% on whether or not to sell, or when, or who will maintain the property, how the costs will be shared, what price is acceptable at a sale, and who in the family is the best person to guide the price and terms in negotiating a sales contract.

We all know that as time moves on life has its seasons. There are times to build up and a times to tear down, times to hold and a times to fold, times to strive and a times for the peace in letting go of things that worry us. If for any reason your season has come to buy or to sell real estate, then we hope you will look to us for the help that we can surely provide.

We know what sellers are receiving and what buyers are paying, and why. We know the loop-holes, how to see the red ags of potential trouble, how to cover for things you don’t want to occur, whether the price you are paying or receiving is fair, and if it is sufficient for your future plans to be fullled. Before you even apply for nancing, we can show you the amounts you can qualify for, what the cash and monthly payments will be, and the kind of loan package that is probably best. Actually, we can honestly project within a very small margin, more or less, what your outcomes will likely be. Our real estate work is important to us because we know how very important it is to you. So much of your livelihood at stake!

That’s why, when your season comes to buy or sell, just give us a call or stop by. You have nothing to lose and so very much to gain, so please, let us help you!

Your Best Choice

423-733-9380 Serving Hancock, Hawkins, Claiborne & Grainger Counties Specializing in all RURAL lands and housing, farms, homesteads, raw acreage, & riverfront properties

122 Walnut Street, Sneedville, TN 37869 | Hours: Mon-Fri 9am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 3pm