Josh Peterson

Pickett County rolled into Manchester Tuesday night with a 9-1 record, a six-game winning streak and a roster loaded with senior talent.

The Red Raiders of Coffee County Central were up to the challenge.

Coffee County had answers for everything the Bobcats did all night and Dayne Crosslin scored 17 points to drop the visiting Bobcats 61-52. It was the Raiders’ third win in their past four games.

CHS held Zach Amonett to 13 points – well below is season average of 22.

The Raiders spread out production on the offensive end – getting 9 from Aidan Abellana and 10 from Connor Shemwell, despite battling foul trouble for most of the night. Phineas Rollman, Cooper Reed and Brady Nugent all pitched in 7 points.

The Raiders led throughout – never trailing after midway through the fourth quarter. The Bobcats were unable to cut the deficit to any closer than 6 during the final minutes.

THIS GAME WAS BROADCAST LIVE ON THUNDER RADIO. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE AUDIO REPLAY.

Coffee County improves to 7-4 on the season and will be at home Friday to host cross-county rival Tullahoma. Tip is at 6 p.m. for the girls with the boys to follow and you can hear the games live on Thunder Radio: 107.9 FM, 1320 AM, 106.7 FM , Manchester Go app and thunder1320.com.

Tickets are available at the gate.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Olivia Vinson posts career high to lead Lady Raiders past Pickett County

The basket must have looked like an ocean for freshman Olivia Vinson Tuesday night.

The freshman guard started filling up the basket in the first quarter and didn’t let up, piling up a high-school career high 24 points to lead the Coffee County Lady Raiders to a 67-33 win over the visiting Bobcats of Pickett County.

“The ball kept going in so I just kept shooting it,” said Vinson, who was named Thunder Radio’s Stone Fort Mortgage Player of the Game. “I feel like, as a team, we all get along so well on and off the court and it is showing in how we play.”

Vinson scored 21 in the first half and added 3 more in the second half. She started 6-of-6 beyond the arc before finally missing a shot late in the third quarter. She was 2-of-2 at the free-throw line.

The Lady Raiders exploded on the talented Bobcats early – taking a 26-10 lead after one quarter to have the game under control early. CHS led 46-17 at the break and 60-26 after three quarters.

Elli Chumley and Channah Gannon each pitched in 13 points for Coffee County and Jalie Ruehling had 7. Chloe Gannon finished with 6.

“That is a good basketball team over there (in Pickett County,” said CHS head coach Joe Pat Cope. “We shot it lights out tonight. I don’t know if we are 40 points better than that team but we certainly played well tonight.”

THIS GAME WAS BROADCAST LIVE ON THUNDER RADIO WMSR. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE AUDIO REPLAY.

Coffee County improves to 6-3 on the season and will be at home Friday to host cross-county rival Tullahoma. Tip is at 6 p.m. and you can hear the game live on Thunder Radio: 107.9 FM, 1320 AM, 106.7 FM , Manchester Go app and thunder1320.com.

Birthdays- December 14

Bridger Gray- 12- Pizza Winner!

Kristen House- 32

Niki Campell Chester

Pam Jamison

Grant Wiser

Charles Edwin Bryant

Funeral services for Charles Edwin Bryant, age 51 of Manchester, will be conducted on Thursday, December 16, 2021, in the Coffee County Funeral Chapel at 3 PM. Burial will follow in the Concord Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held on Wednesday, December 15 from 6 ~ 8 PM at the funeral home. Mr. Bryant passed away on Tuesday, December 14 at Legacy Health & Rehab in Manchester.

Charles was born on November 11, 1970, to the late Lloyd Bryant and Dorothy Kilgore Bryant. He was a self-employed painter and he enjoyed fishing.

In addition to his mother, Dorothy, Charles is survived by his daughters, Clarissa Bryant of IL, and Cindy Glissin of Tullahoma; brothers, Greg Bryant (Dana), Teddy Bryant, and Gary Bryant; sister, Mala Miller; nephews, Terry Lee Miller, and Gregory Lyn Bryant; and one grandchild.

Coffee County Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Bryant family.

Anthony Lynn Arnold

Anthony Lynn Arnold passed this life on Friday, December 11, 2021 at the
age of 58. No services are scheduled.

Anthony was born in Manchester, the son of the late Riley Hershel Arnold
Sr. and Lillian Louise Meeks of Pelham, TN. He was a U S Marine veteran
and enjoyed fishing, working on electronics and his work as a truck driver.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by daughter, Jessica
Burns and sister, Charlotte Arnold.

In addition to his mother, Lillian Louise Meeks (Jack) of Pelham, Anthony
is survived by daughter, Andrea Hahn of Lafayette, IN; brother, Riley
Arnold (Peggy) of Manchester; nephews, Nathan Hodges (Beth), Chad Akers
(Brittany) and Jason Arnold (Inna), all of Manchester; five grandchildren
and many great nieces and nephews.

Online condolences may be made at www.davesculbertsonfuneralhome.com.
Daves-Culbertson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Wreaths Across America honoring deceased military in Coffee County

Wreaths across America has placed Remembrance Wreaths on the military graves at Arlington National Cemetery at Christmas for 30 years.

For the fifth year Coffee County has joined more than 3,100 other sites nation-wide participating in this program to honor our deceased military veterans.

On Saturday December 18, 2021 following a ceremony at 11 a.m., wreaths will be placed graves of military veterans that have been identified who are interred at several local cemeteries.

Evergreen (75 military graves), Maplewood (280 military graves) and Oakwood (250 military graves) Cemeteries in Tullahoma will also have ceremonies at 11 a.m.

Marine Corps Junior ROTC Cadets Tullahoma High School will participate in the ceremony and help place wreaths at Oakwood Cemetery in Tullahoma.

The Coffee County Air Force Junior ROTC Cadet Honor Guard will participate in the ceremony at 11 a.m. and place wreaths at Hurricane Grove Cemetery (30 military graves) just off I-24 northwest of exit 105 in Coffee County.

The Army Junior ROTC from Warren County High School will participate in the ceremony at Fredonia Cemetery (95 military graves) at 2 p.m.

The Brig Gen. Shofner chapter of the Marine Corps League will run the ceremonies at Shofners Cemetery at 11 a.m. and Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Bedford County at noon.

A ceremony will also be held at the Beech Grove Confederate Cemetery at 11 a.m. where a Revolutionary War veteran and veterans of the Civil War are buried.

Ceremonial wreaths will also be placed at Citizens Cemetery in Tullahoma and at Rose Hill Cemetery in rural Coffee County.

Prior to the ceremonies at cemeteries a ceremony placing eight ceremonial wreaths representing all the military services, the Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and POW/MIAs will be held at the old Coffee County Courthouse on the Square in Manchester at 9:00 a.m.

Families of military veterans buried at any of these cemeteries are invited to make sure the committee has the name and location of the grave of their family member so a wreath can be placed on their grave in case they have not already been identified.

The Coffee County Republican Women have taken this project on as a non-partisan project with 100 percent of all funds collected locally being used to order and place wreaths on veterans graves.

All the money collected for this project goes directly to Wreaths Across America who are shipping the wreaths directly to Coffee County from Maine.

Funds have been raised to place wreaths on all currently identified military graves in the ten local locations this year.
Anyone interested in adding and being the Point of Contact for other local cemeteries in 2022 can contact Cyndi Clower (931) 728-9898 at Clower Automotive at 1406 McArthur St. in Manchester, TN 37355.

Checks for the 2022 Wreaths Across America effort should be made out to WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA TM and dropped off or mailed to Cyndi Clower (931) 728-9898 at Clower Automotive at 1406 McArthur St. in Manchester, TN 37355.

Wreaths across America is a IRS 501c3 non-profit and all donations are tax deductible.
$15 sponsors one wreath – $30 sponsors two wreaths – $75 sponsors five wreaths $150 sponsors 10 wreaths.
Businesses, organizations and individuals can sponsor wreaths and they can do so in memory of a deceased veteran or veterans.

If you would like to volunteer to help place wreaths on December 18th call Claude Morse (931) 247-5151.
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Coffee County TN Wreaths Across America Committee

Spokesperson/Board Member Claude Morse (931) 247-5151

Wreaths Across America Events on December 18, 2021

9 a.m. War Memorials, Old Coffee County Courthouse
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths Only
POC Claude Morse (931) 247-5151

11 a.m. Beech Grove Confederate Cemetery
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 61 military graves
Sons of the Confederacy
POC Michael Anderson

11 a.m. Hurricane Grove Cemetery – Rural Coffee County near I-24 exit 105
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 30 military graves
Coffee County High School Junior Air Force ROTC
POC Bobbie Morse (931) 247-4545

11 a.m. Evergreen Cemetery – Tullahoma
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 75 military graves
POC Tullahoma Alderman Sernobia McGee (931) 247-2082

11 a.m. Maplewood Cemetery – Tullahoma
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 280 military graves
Tullahoma Girl Scout Troop
POC Greg Gressel (615) 969-8005

11 a.m. Oakwood Cemetery – Tullahoma
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 250 military graves
Tullahoma High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC
POC Claude Morse (931) 247-5151

11 a.m. Shofner Cemetery – Bedford County
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 30 military graves
Brig. General Shofner Chapter of the Marine Corps League
POC Fred Kasper (847) 687-2747

Noon – Mt Zion Missionary Baptist Church – Bedford County
Eight Ceremonial wreaths
Brig. General Shofner Chapter of the Marine Corps League

2 p.m. Fredonia Cemetery – Rural Coffee County
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths and approximately 100 military graves
McMinnville High School Army Junior ROTC
POC – Cyndi Clower (931) 247-4882

TBD Citizens Cemetery – Tullahoma
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths Only

TBD Rose Hill Cemetery – Highway 55 Coffee County
Eight Ceremonial Wreaths Only

Two arrested for DUI after crash on McMinnville highway

A man and his girlfriend were both arrested on Friday, Dec. 10, after a crash on State Highway 55.

According to a news report by WOWC, a 2006 Buick Rendezvous driven by Bobby Towry, age 68, of Morrison, was traveling east on Highway 55 when he crossed into the Westbound lane and struck a 2015 Nissan Pathfinder that was driven by Liana Rigney, 49, of Manchester. Rigney was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

THP Trooper Wade Myers noticed that Towry appeared intoxicated and belligerent at the scene of the crash. According to the report, Towry refused a sobriety test and refused medical transportation. Towry’s girlfriend, Kizzie Parson, age 62, allegedly arrived on the scene and appeared to be intoxicated. She failed sobriety test and was arrested at the scene for DUI. Towry was arrested and charged with DUI 5th offense, reckless endangerment and failure to maintain lane of travel.

Gas prices drop another 4 cents in Tennessee

Tennessee gas prices declined another four cents since last week. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $3.03 which is 12 cents cheaper than one month ago and $1.11 more than one year ago.

“Gas prices tend to fall a bit this time of year due to the shorter days and less robust demand,” said Stephanie Milani, Tennessee Public Affairs Director, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “And this trend was assisted by the recent steep drop in oil prices due to fears over the omicron variant. But the variant’s impact on pricing appears to be fading, so it remains to be seen if oil prices stabilize or move higher.”

Quick Facts

54% of Tennessee gas stations have prices below $3.00
The lowest 10% of pump prices are $2.78 for regular unleaded
The highest 10% of pump prices are $3.35 for regular unleaded

National Gas Prices

Pump prices continue their slow seasonal descent, despite a slight rebound in oil prices due to waning fears of a global slowdown caused by the COVID-19 omicron variant. The national average for a gallon of gas fell two cents on the week to $3.33.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), total domestic gasoline stocks increased by nearly 4 million bbl to 219,304 million bbl last week. Meanwhile, gasoline demand was relatively flat, creeping upwards from 8.8 million b/d to 8.9 million b/d. The slight increase in demand was countered by crude prices in the low $70s bbl.

Today’s national average of $3.33 is eight cents less than a month ago and $1.17 more than a year ago.

National Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of last week’s formal trading session, WTI increased 73 cents to settle at $71.67. Crude prices increased slightly after EIA’s weekly report showed that total domestic crude inventories decreased by 200,000 bbl to 432.9 million bbl. The current storage level is approximately 14 percent lower than last year’s storage level at this time, which is helping to keep crude prices elevated. Additionally, prices rebounded last week as optimism increased that the omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus will not have as large an impact on global energy demand as initially feared. For this week, continued optimism could help crude prices continue to rise.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER: Stay jolly, merry, happy and safe

By Joyce Prusak, Executive Director of Coffee County Children’s Advocacy Center

The holidays bring exciting moments and wonderful time spent together with family and friends. As we enjoy these beautiful moments together and create everlasting memories, it’s important to ensure the safety of children. The holidays may bring stress and busy schedules, leading to situations and opportunities for abusers. Rates of child sexual abuse often increase around the holidays, according to Darkness to Light. The following tips will help prevent child sexual and physical abuse.

Limit one-on-one situations

Most child sexual abuse incidents (about 80%) happen when the abuser is alone with the child. Additionally, more than 90% of children experiencing sexual abuse are abused by someone they love and trust. Limiting one-on-one situations can protect children. Eliminate situations that create opportunities for offenders. If you need to leave your child alone with an adult, let that person know you may call to check on them or pick the child up a little earlier than the agreed time. It’s also important to limit alone time with other children – about 30% of child sexual abuse is perpetrated by more powerful children, according to Darkness to Light.

Discuss boundaries

During the holidays, you and your child will probably spend a lot of time with family members and friends, who may want to hug and kiss your child. Tell you children it’s their body and no one has the right to touch their body or take pictures without permission. Sometimes family members and friends might want to hug, touch and tickle your children. Tell your children they don’t have to hug anyone if they don’t want to. Talk with your children and let them know that it’s okay to say “no.”

Stay vigilant

Remember, stranger-danger is a myth. Most perpetrators are people the child and the family trusts. Be vigilant. Implement prevention measures, establish boundaries and apply these rules equally. Don’t make exceptions. Sometimes, perpetrators are people who are very respected and likable.

Prevent physical abuse

Sometimes, the holidays may cause anxiety related to meeting too many people or not being able to be with people you usually see for the holidays. Also, financial difficulties may increase stress. For some families, this may result in increased risk of physical abuse. It’s important to stay calm and help others who may be experiencing stress. If you feel overwhelmed, ask for support. Call a friend and share your frustration. If you need support beyond friends, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health counselor or crisis support line. Your mental health and your child’s wellbeing is what matters most and friends and/or professionals will be ready to help you.

If you notice that a friend or a family member is struggling, it’s important to provide support. If you see signs of increased stress or possible abuse in those around you, reach out and tell them you understand how stressful the holidays can be and that you want to help. Concerning signs include short tempers, children that seem jumpy or afraid, or physical signs of abuse, such as bruises.

Report if you suspect

If you suspect a child has been harmed, report by calling 1-877-237-0004. It can be difficult to make that call. Sometimes, it takes bravery, especially when the suspected abuser is a close friend or a family member. But children’s safety and wellbeing comes first. And usually, the way child abuse is stopped is when adults are vigilant and report suspicions of abuse.

For more information about child abuse prevention, follow Coffee County Children’s Advocacy on social media and visit coffeecountycac.org. Happy holidays from the Coffee County Children’s Advocacy Center

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: Coffee splits on the road with Walker Valley

CHS Lady Raiders 65, Walker Valley 31

What had the makings to be a “trap game” turned into a typical night for the Coffee County Central Lady Raiders.

CHS traveled two hours to Walker Valley and put a whipping on the Mustangs, leaving with a 65-31 mercy-rule shortened game to complete the season sweep.

Chloe Gannon with 19 points and Jalie Ruehling with 8 points and 7 rebounds were named Stone Fort Mortgage co-players of the game on the Thunder Radio broadcast.

But it was the defense that made the difference. CHS only led 19-11 after one quarter. But more defensive pressure frustrated Walker Valley. CHS held the Mustangs to just 4 points in the second quarter and 1 in the third. In fact, Walker Valley didn’t score an offensive field goal for the first 10 minutes of the second half.

Olivia Vinson buried a trio of 3-pointers to finish with 9 points and senior Elli Chumley also added 9 in the win. Coffee County improves to 5-3 win the win.

THIS GAME WAS BROADCAST LIVE ON THUNDER RADIO. CLICK HERE FOR THE AUDIO REPLAY.

Raiders 49, Walker Valley 62

A bad second quarter was costly for CHS.

The Raiders led 15-11 late in the first quarter over Walker Valley Monday night, Dec. 13, 2021, but a 23-4 Walker Valley run closed the half and made too big of a hole for the Raiders to climb back.

CHS cut the deficit to 5 points twice in the second half but never got any closer.

Connor Shemwell had a big night for the Raiders – piling up 20 points, including three 3-pointers. Dayne Crosslin pitched in 10.

The Raiders fall to 6-4 with the loss and suffer a season sweep at the hands of Walker Valley.

Both CHS teams will return home Tuesday to host good Pickett County teams. Tip at 6 p.m. and you can hear them both on Thunder Radio: 107.9 FM, 106.7 FM, 1320 AM, Manchester Go app and Thunder1320.com.

THIS GAME WAS BROADCAST LIVE ON THUNDER RADIO. CLICK HERE FOR THE AUDIO REPLAY.