Speedwell News

MOORESBURG — A series of theft complaints and rising tension between a stepson and stepfather may have led to a double murder/suicide Monday night in the Mooresburg community of Hawkins County. Hawkins County Sheriff Roger Christian identified the alleged shooter as Darran Blevins, 27. His two victims were identified as Blevins’ stepfather, Dennis Christian, 65, and a family friend, Brandy Seal, no age given

After an intense investigation by the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office, a burglary ring has been busted and two men are in jail with more arrests expected. On July 29, Pastor Bill Gaylor of Shipley Grove Church of God in Speedwell filed a police report after the church was broken into and vandalized. Pastor Gaylor reported several items mis...

At the beginning of the August 12 School Board Meeting, Mrs. Pauline Ausmus was recognized for her 46 years of service. She currently teaches kindergarten at Powell Valley Elementary School. Although she is certified to teach various subjects ranging from English, Spanish to Biology, she has spent most of her tenure as a kindergarten teacher. PVES is fortunate to not only have qualified educators but to have experienced and professional educators like Mrs. Ausmus. It is evident that she is a master in the field of education and has obviously made a positive impact on many people that she works with as well as the ones she has taught over the years. PVES would like to congratulate Mrs. Ausmus and look forward to many more years of service.

Cory Cheek, a 5'9 guard from Cumberland Gap High School, has committed to continue his education and basketball career at Maryville College in Maryville, Tenn. Cheek, the son of Jeff and Marsha Cheek from Arthur, Tenn., was a standout guard for the Panthers and Head Coach Joe Wolfenbarger. Cheek had a banner year in his senior campaign for Cumberland Gap High School. He established school records in assists in a single game (15) and career three point field goals made. While leading his team in points (16.5), assists (7), steals (2.1) and defensive charges, Cheek was selected to several All-Tournament Teams. He was also chosen as an All-District and All-Region performer for the 2008-2009 season. The head coach of the Scots, Randy Lambert, had this to say about Cory's decision to continue his career at Maryville College: "Cory is a highly skilled guard with a great shooting touch. He has exceptional court awareness and sees the floor very well. I love his determination and willingness to work at his game. I believe he will flourish in our system and the college game." Cheek will be joining a Scots basketball team that finished the 2008-09 year with a 20-7 record, including a 16 game winning streak before a 68-64 loss to Trinity University in the NCAA tournament. The MC Cagers also had an undefeated regular season Great South Athletic Conference championship, a Great South Athletic Conference Tournament championship, and an eleventh consecutive NCAA Division III tournament berth.