This coming Thursday, July 2nd, marks the 7th anniversary of the passing of Hamilton County Commission Chairman Curtis D. Adams.

Commissioner Adams holds the record for being on WDOD’s Sunday Morning Sound Off about 50 times. The first time he was on Sound Off the callers weren't very friendly. This writer thought he'd never come back. Near the end of the program the Commissioner said, “Earl, I really enjoyed Sound Off. When can I come back?” The mic became his friend.

I was honored to produce his radio program on WDYN Radio, "Getting to Know you." Commissioner Adams interviewed over 120 people including Chattanoogan.com publisher John Wilson, School Board member Rhonda Thurman, County Clerk Bill Knowles, Chattanooga Funeral Home President Gene Pike, Commissioner Bill Hullander, Judge Russell Bean, attorney Jerry Summers. News Free Press Urban Editor J.B. Collins, businessman Don Brock and many of our Christian leaders including Highland Park Baptist Church Pastor Dr. David Bouler.

The 86-year-old was a dedicated public servant and the longest serving Hamilton County Commissioner in History, 1988-2016.

Mr. Adams was employed by the Chattanooga News Free Press for I don't know how long. His favorite person was Publisher Roy McDonald. He always had a Mr. Roy story. I know he's singing his favorite hymn "Blessed Assurance" (might be leading it) with the Lord in Heaven.