On Sunday, November 21, 1976, the Chattanooga News-Free Press honored longtime Rhea County district supervisor Vance Elsea for his many years of service delivering and supervising newspaper circulation throughout the county. By that time, Vance had already devoted thirty-two years to the News-Free Press and had become a familiar figure to generations of Rhea Countians.
Vance was more than a newspaper distributor; he was a mentor to many young boys who started as paper carriers under his supervision. Several of those young men later became respected and prominent citizens in Rhea County. Among them were Spring City Postmaster Byerly Morgan, along with Jack and Patsy Brown, Jimmy Porter, Freddie Mooty, Jim Galloway, George Hommel, and others. Former Dayton resident Billy Carter, who later became a successful Florida land developer, was also among those who once worked under Vance.
At the time of the recognition, Vance had driven more than two and one-half million miles in service to the newspaper. His dedication, dependability, and influence on young people made him one of the most recognized and respected individuals connected with the News-Free Press in this area…