NEWPORT-Dozens of representatives from local health agencies, governments and businesses welcomed First Call Ambulance Service to Cocke County during an open house Tuesday evening at Newport Community Center.

Partnership President Don Hurst said, "We're very appreciative when a business comes to Cocke County. We're very pleased to welcome you."

Hurst explained attendance to Tuesday's event was impacted somewhat because of rescheduled meeting of Newport City Council and funeral services for Cocke County Legislative Body member Bill Williamson.

First Call Director of Operations Walt Downey thanked everyone for attending and expressed condolences in the loss of Williamson. "It's tough when you loses a community leader," he said.

For more details, please see the weekend edition of the Newport Plain Talk.