Today's News

Balloons and streamers filled the dimly lit Kingston Elementary School gymnasium, accompanied by the smell of freshly made popcorn. Young girls huddled together, dancing and singing at the top of their lungs.

Based on the smiles seen on both boys’ and girls’ faces, Kington’s Winter Dance on Jan. 27 was a success on many levels.

School officials held the dance as part of their Schoolwide Positive Behavior system.

Another candidate has joined the race for 9th Judicial District circuit court judge.

Mike Pemberton filed his petition with the Roane County Election Commission on Monday.

“I’ve practiced law for 30 years, and have tried a lot of lawsuits,” he said. “I’ve always had an interest in being a judge and now is the time.”

Pemberton, a Rockwood native, joins Roane County Circuit Court Clerk Kim Nelson and Roane County Attorney Tom McFarland as candidates in the race.

Duke Energy reached out to TVA following the ash spill this week at Duke’s Dan River Steam Station in Eden, N.C.

TVA spokesman Scott Brooks confirmed Duke’s call for help.

TVA knows first-hand what it’s like to deal with an ash spill. On Dec. 22, 2008, a dike failure at the agency’s Kingston Fossil Plant released more than 5 million cubic yards of ash.

By Justin Thomas • For Roane Newspapers
Being physically active is one of the best things you can do to improve and maintain your health — yet nearly two-thirds of Americans aren’t getting the activity they need.

Consider taking up walking with friend or your family by participating in Roane Walks, an eight-week program that will spark some friendly competition in our Roane County communities.

Teams of four or eight will compete to see who can log the most miles walking, jogging or even biking.