Section E
Community
GHS Repeats As State Football Champion. 4 Civil War Sesquicentennial Comes Alive. 6 The Tornadoes: In Numbers And History. 2 ‘The Band Perry’ Enjoys A Record Year. 5
The Greeneville Sun March 31, 2012
2012 Benchmarks
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
What The Tornadoes Wrought: In Numbers And History A Special Section Of Benchmarks Behind This One Looks At Events And People Behind These Grim Facts
Hotz illustrated his point at the presentation with radar images of the storms as they swept into Tennessee from Alabama, eventually reaching Greene County and Washington County.
BY KEN LITTLE STAFF WRITER
The tornadoes that struck Greene County on April 27-28, 2011, were a generation-defining event. Anyone who lived through the devastation wrought by the tornadoes will never forget the experience. The widespread event spawned at least 335 tornadoes across the Southeast and killed 345 people, eclipsing the “Super Outbreak” of April 3, 1974, that swept across the Midwest and South. In this area, the April tornadoes hit hardest in the Camp Creek, Horse Creek and Ducktown communities, as well as near Exit 23 in the Bulls Gap area and in Washington County, just over the Greene County border. In all, there were seven local deaths. The tornado destroyed more than 100 homes and numerous farm buildings, and caused tens of millions of dollars in damage. Nearly 300 people were injured in Greene County. Two others living in Washington County, near
A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) helicopter flies over Greene tornado damage on Saturday, April 30. the Greene County border, later died of injuries suffered in the tornado. The emotional toll on survivors cannot be calculated. BENCHMARK EVENT The April 2011 tornadoes will be the benchmark all other such storms will be measured against in the future, according to the National Weather Service. That is why The Greeneville Sun is publishing a special section of the newspaper’s annual Benchmarks edition today to chronicle the tornadoes and their impact
from the day before the twisters touched down, through the cleanup efforts that continue to this day. That section can be found immediately behind this one. “It was a fascinating event and unfortunately a deadly event as well,” said National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologist George Mathews during a presentation last year at Carson-Newman College. “It will kick off many years of research to come,” said Mathews, chief meteorologist at the NWS office in Mor-
ristown. Conditions were just right on April 27, 2011, to produce numerous thunderstorms with strong updrafts, creating “super cells” and the perfect setup for the destructive storms that followed, meteorologists said. What set the April 2728 outbreak apart from other strong storms was the sheer number of twisters the system generated — more than 40 in East Tennessee alone. “It’s the big event of our generation. It’s the big event of recorded history,” Morristown-based NWS meteorologist David
CAMP CREEK TORNADO Five people died the night of April 27 along the tornado track of the EF-3 Camp Creek tornado, and another man who suffered injuries died shortly afterward. Top wind speed of the Camp Creek tornado was estimated by the NWS at 150 mph. The tornado was 16 miles in length and 1,500 yards wide. Houses, mobile homes and farm buildings on a number of roads in the path of the tornado in the Camp Creek community were reduced to kindling or sustained heavy damSUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY age. County as officials assess Hotz noted a “really strong rotation occurring around the Camp Creek area” that resulted in the Gaffin said at the presen- tornado, which touched tation. down at 10:56 p.m. on By “recorded history,” April 27. Gaffin was referring to post-1950, when the sci- HORSE CREEK TORNADO ence of tornado-trackThe tornado that struck ing and analysis became the Horse Creek commumore exact. nity was ultimately cat“It’s a very big event egorized by the NWS as and a very extraordinary an EF-4, with top wind event, but hopefully we speeds of 160 mph. will not see it again for a That tornado, which long time,” he said. had a 14-mile track and “The super cells were was 1,000 yards wide, very efficient in produc- accounted for another ing the tornadoes,” Gaf- fatality, making a total fin said. of seven tornado-related Morristown-based NWS deaths in Greene County. science officer David Hotz “This was a storm of long called the event “a classic duration,” Hotz said. generational outbreak of PLEASE SEE TORNADOES | 4 tornadoes.”
On The Cover when it was destroyed by a tornado that struck the southern part of the county on April 27. Thompson and her mother, Sue Hensley, took refuge in a bathroom. GREENE DEVILS REPEAT AS STATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS When the tornado had passed, the bathroom walls were the only ones left standAsk any Greeneville High School football fan. Once is a lot of fun, but twice is really very ing. In this photo, on the following afternoon, she holds some dolls she found in nice. The Greene Devils won their second straight high school state football champion- the ruins of her home. Sun photo by Phil Gentry. ship in December of 2011, giving a group of 22 seniors the remarkable feat of winning 51 football games for GHS over their career. It was the school’s third straight appearance in Cookeville for the state championship. Sun photo by Phil Gentry. ‘THE BAND PERRY’ ENJOYS A RECORD YEAR, MEMORABLE SHOWS From the top, Neil Perry, Kimberly Perry and Reid Perry perform onstage at the CIVIL WAR SESQUICENTENNIAL COMES ALIVE WITH MANY EVENTS Ryman Auditorium in Nashville in February. It was a whirlwind year of milestones and Abraham Lincoln Presenter Chris Small, of Greeneville, delivers Lincoln’s Get- accomplishments for The Band Perry. The group performed at the White House, tysburg Address in April at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, in connection and they even made history at the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman with a Civil War Sesquicentennial concert by the 113th U.S. Army Band. Tall hats Auditorium, having been given the honor of reopening the historic venue after and short beards abounded in 2011 during several events recognizing the 150th its remodeling. They were named “Best New Artist of the Year” by the Country anniversary of the Civil War. The commemoration will run through 2015. Sun Music Association (CMA) and the Academy of Country Music (ACM). The group photo by Phil Gentry. also performed with the legendary Glen Campbell at this year’s Grammy Awards. AP Photo. FROM THE TOP, AND LEFT TO RIGHT:
SEARCH TEAMS COMB THE WRECKAGE AFTER TORNADOES
Linda Thompson lived in this mobile home on Ricker Road. She was in the home Timeline By Amy Rose.
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Saturday, March 31, 2012
THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
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AIDNET Unites Community Volunteers For A Crucial Cause BY KEN LITTLE STAFF WRITER
As soon as the devastating tornadoes of last April passed through the area, there was talk of how to most effectively assist survivors. It wasn’t long before AIDNET of Greene County, Inc., became the go-to organization for coordinating help. AIDNET was first formed in response to the 2001 flooding in Greene County. AIDNET was effective in helping residents living in a six-county area hit by extensive flooding in 2001, so the same organization was reactivated in June 2011 at a meeting of community leaders held at the First Baptist Church of Greeneville. The group modified its name to AIDNET of Greene County. AIDNET stands for Assistance In Disaster Northeast Tennessee, and the stated focus of the reformed organization was coordinating all long-term tornado recovery efforts in Greene County. “We will all be under one umbrella, bringing everyone together for the victims of Greene County to try to get their lives back to somewhat of a normal pattern,” said Jim Ramey, who was named AIDNET president. Ramey’s words have rung true in the ensuing months, as the one-year anniversary of the tornadoes approaches. As of March 13 of this year, AIDNET had reviewed 112 cases, and only 19 cases with housing concerns remained open. About 20 other cases involving cleanup needs and non-housing issues categorized as “secondary priorities” also remained open. The accomplishments of volunteer efforts coordinated by AIDNET are apparent throughout the communities hard-hit by the tornadoes.
PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY SPECAL TO THE SUN
Alison Krauss and Union Station entertain a full house in October at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Net proceeds from the concert benefited AIDNET of Greene County and Free Will Baptist Family Ministries. From left, Jerry Douglas plays dobro, Krauss sings lead vocals, Barry Bales plays bass, Dan Tyminski plays mandolin and sings harmony, and Ron Block plays guitar. said Jeff Idell, AIDNET vice president. AIDNET couldn’t accomplish anything without assistance from the community, Idell said. “We’re past the phase of inspecting projects. We know the needs out there now,” he said. “It’s now a matter of coordinating the efforts, the labor, to finish these projects.” Dedicated volunteer coordinators and project managers have helped the rebuilding work go smoothly. And an influx of helpers continued to come to Greene County this spring to assist with a number of projects. ‘PRETTY PHENOMENAL’ Many residents of communities like Camp Creek, Horse Creek and Ducktown were able to rebuild their lives with the assistance of volunteers coordinated through AIDNET. “That’s pretty phenomenal in a short period of time,” AIDNET publicity coordinator Wayne Bettis said. AIDNET made huge strides in 2011. Churches, businesses, community organizations, the Ruritan National Oper-
ation We Care program, and individuals all stepped up to keep donations flowing into AIDNET, which distributed resources to those who needed the most help. “As we reflect back on 2011, I think God has really blessed Greene County,” Ramey said at a recent meeting. “Many dollars have come in to help Greene County. I know there is a huge task ahead, but I think it is very doable. I think we have our priorities in order, and I
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think we’re being blessed,” he said. AIDNET has been so successful in addressing the needs of tornado survivors that the organization will begin scaling down efforts later in the spring. AIDNET stopped taking applications for new projects on Jan. 31. VOLUNTEERS THE KEY Volunteer help and donations remain key to the success of AIDNET and are still needed to complete projects in the pipeline,
CHURCH GROUPS COME IN Local churches — at Camp Creek and Horse Creek as well as from other areas of Greeneville and Greene County — have played a major role in helping tornado survivors with serious property damage get their lives back together. In addition, church groups and other volunteers from Johnson City, North Carolina, Michigan, West Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Nebraska and Kentucky have been among those who spent time here, and were fed and housed
by volunteers. Since AIDNET reactivated, “It’s really phenomenal, the progress that has been made,” Idell said. “It’s really been a group effort, civic and religious organizations coming together. It’s been way beyond AIDNET,” he said. “We’re just grateful and thankful for the community to step up. We’re starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel at this point, and hopefully by mid-summer, we will be able to see closure to most cases,” Idell said. The one-year anniversary of the tornadoes is fast approaching, AIDNET President Ramey noted. “April 27 brings back a lot of memories,” Ramey said. “Time goes by so fast, it will soon be upon us.” The number to call to assist AIDNET through donations or volunteer work is (423) 620-3311. MONUMENT PLANNED A ceremony dedicating a monument in memory of the tornado victims will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at a site which is adjacent to the baseball field at Camp Creek Elementary School. The land where the monument will be located was donated to the Camp Creek Ruritan Club by the Greene County School System. “This is going to be a special day,” Bettis said. “It can be a closure for this disaster.” A community center and tornado shelter on the land is also in the planning stages. Construction of the building is contingent on enough funds being raised by the Ruritan Club. Volunteering for AIDNET has been a rewarding experience for just about everyone who participates, Bettis said. “If you have a chance to be there with something happening like that, please take it,” he said. “Get out there and get in the middle of it. It will do you a lot of good.”
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
Greene Devils Repeat As Class 4A State Football Champions BY WAYNE PHILLIPS
County was better, but still a solid victory for the Devils. “The last two years the semifinal game has been the better game,” Ballard said, recalling the year prior when GHS went to Nashville and had a real battle with Maplewood. Giles County provided that semi matchup at Burley Stadium in 2011, with Maplewood awaiting in Cookeville for the title game. The Devils coasted to a 37-0 win in the championship game.
SPORTS EDITOR
Ask any Greeneville High School football fan. Once is a lot of fun, but twice is really very nice. The Greene Devils won their second straight high school state football championship in December of 2011, giving a group of 22 seniors the remarkable feat of winning 51 football games for GHS over their career. It was the school’s third straight appearance in Cookeville for the state championship. After stumbling against Giles County in 2009, the Devils came back to easily dispose of Memphis Trezevant in 2010 and Nashville Maplewood in 2011. Greeneville posted an impressive 29-1 record during the two championship seasons. “I’ve talked with some other coaches who have won more than one state title, and they all said the second one was the hardest to get,” Coach Caine Ballard of Greeneville said. “There’s a lot of pressure on the team, and on the coaches, too. But I put a lot of pressure on myself anyway.” After winning the crown in 2010, there was a certain segment of doubters going into the 2011 campaign. After all, the Greene Devils had just graduated two key cogs in a dynamite offense in TSSAA Mr. Football quarterback Willie Carmichael and bruising back B.J. Spradlin. Coach Ballard knew the Greene Devils would have to hang their hats on defense early in the year until the offense caught up, and that’s what happened. After they had whipped through the 2010 season with an unbeaten 15-0 mark, expectations were high for 2011. They opened the year with a 26-18 win over a good Science Hill team at Burley Stadium. Not a
Tornadoes Starts on Page 2 The Horse Creek EF4 tornado touched down at 12:42 a.m. April 28, according to the NWS. There were numerous injuries, as there were in Camp Creek. DUCKTOWN TORNADO The Ducktown tornado, in northeastern Greene County, was the first to touch down, at 9:26 p.m. on April 27, near Old Snapps Ferry Road. It clipped Greene County in the Liberty Hill area, also referred to as Ducktown, Mathews said. Maximum winds of the tornado were estimated by the NWS at 120 mph. It had a length of 10 miles and a width of 150 yards. It also moved into Washington County before dissipating.
ROCK-SOLID ROLLINS For the second straight season, a Greeneville High football player received the TSSAA Mr. Football Award for Class 2A. This time it went to the Lineman of the Year in senior Terrell Rollins. SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY Teammate Hall was also The Greeneville High School Greene Devils, with their large crowd of supporters filling the stands behind them, a finalist for the award. whoop it up after winning the state football championship in Cookeville in December. “To have two of our defensive leaders as dominating performance, game of the year against tation as a defensive end title with Mr. Football finalists for the award but good enough to get county rival South who came toward every Carmichael a year prior, is really special,” Ballard the team off on a seem- Greene, a 49-14 victory. opponent with a great Ballard knew that it said. ingly good track. deal of vigor. would take a special THE OFFENSE COMES ALIVE But placing him in player to win a state COLLEGE-BOUND PLAYERS ‘THE LOOK IN THEIR EYES’ The much-anticipated the backfield at oppor- title. No less than six memBut the next Friday showdown with state tune times turned out to Hall turned out to be bers of the 2011 team saw Greeneville finally power Alcoa was next on be a real bonus for the as valuable to the team have signed to play collose a game when they the agenda. Greene Devils. on offense as he was on lege football. went to Morristown and Burley Stadium was Using Hall only brief ly defense. Rollins will go to Tencame out on the short end rocking, but it turned early in the year was After losing to Mor- nessee Tech. Hall will of a 14-10 score. out to be much ado about planned. ristown West, the Devils move on to Mars Hill. “West played a great nothing. After opening “We showed the for- never scored less than Ben Ogle, the team’s game against us. Our a 28-14 halftime lead, mation some against 41 points the rest of the kicker, will play for Cardefense, though, played the Devils tacked on Alcoa,” Ballard said. year. son-Newman. well enough to win,” he two more third quarter “We knew what we had Mea nwh i le, t he Three team members said. scores to open up a 42- with Hall, but we didn’t defense continued to be opted to play close to “I remember the look in 14 lead, which was the want him to have too non-porous. home for the Tusculum their eyes in the locker final score. many snaps [on offense] Only once during the Pioneers: Shuffler, Ethan room after that game. I The offense, possibly and risk injury. rest of the season, and Malone and Garrett didn’t think they wanted suspect in some people’s “But when it came that came in the state Rambo. to feel that way again.” eyes at the beginning time, we knew we had semifinals, did the DevWith 22 seniors to The way things turned of the campaign, quickly that to go to.” ils give up as many as 21 replace, making it a out, they didn’t have to caught fire. The Greene Devils points (a 42-21 win over “three-peat” will be a experience that pain Junior quarterback were already mam- Giles County). tough test, but Ballard again in 2011. They Tanner Stewart began moth along the offensive Easy wins were the certainly isn’t selling his zipped through the rest to shine after the loss to line, and the insertion norm on Friday nights football team short. of the year unbeaten, Morristown West, as did of the 255-pound Hall as the Devils romped “We have 28 or 30 not being seriously chal- senior speed merchant in the backfield, run- over their remaining juniors in the program,” lenged. tailback Taylor Shuf- ning behind some very Blue Ridge foes. he said. “They have It was obvious the fol- f ler. large bodies, gave the Opponents in the early earned playing time and lowing week after that Devils a strength that rounds of the playoffs put in the work. They are loss that the team would SECRET WEAPON UNVEILED other teams just could didn’t fare much better, ready for their turn. respond. Greeneville also had a not match. as Scott County lost 42“They are hungry. None They made a long road hidden weapon that they In addition, they still 8, Carter dropped a big of these returning playtrip to Franklin County never used much until had the speed on the 77-7 decision, and Knox ers want to be among the and won easily, 48-14. late in the year. corners with Stewart Fulton was shut out 42- ones that drop the ball Then came their first Senior Jamel Hall, 6-0, and Shuff ler. 0. and not live up to expecBlue Ridge Conference 255, had made his repuAfter winning a state The game with Giles tations.” HOUSTON VALLEY TORNADO The EF-0 tornado in the Houston Valley area had maximum wind speeds of 75 mph. The tornado’s track was two miles long and 300 yards wide. It touched down in the 1000 block of Houston Valley Road and crossed the Asheville Highway (State Route 70), before losing strength. “That’s a real small track. That same tornado dissipated, and another tornado came out of that storm in the Camp Creek area,” NWS meteorologist Mary Black said. The short-lived Houston Valley EF-0 tornado died out but was part of the storm cell that re-emerged as the deadly EF-3 tornado that touched down in Camp Creek minutes later.
which passed just north of Exit 23 of Interstate 81 in the Bulls Gap area, near the Volunteer Speedway. That tornado left a halfmile path about 70 yards wide and reached a maximum wind speed of 70 mph. “It was just a brief touchdown,” Mathews said in a 2011 interview. The tornado resulted in minor property and tree damage, Mathews said. The tornado was similar to those in Camp Creek and Horse Creek in that it formed from rotation in a super cell thunderstorm, but there was little more in common, Mathews said. “It wasn’t a very strong tornado, nothing like Camp Creek or Horse Creek’s unmistakable path,” he said.
BULLS GAP TORNADO The last tornado to be identified by the NWS was an EF-0 tornado
AT LEAST 350 IN ALL A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimate
several weeks after the tornadoes said there were at least 305 tornadoes between April 25 and 28, 2011 during the multistate outbreak. The Enhanced Fujita Scale EF-3 and EF-4 tornadoes that hit Greene County are categorized as “severe” or “devastating” on the EF Scale, which ranges from EF-0 (gale) in severity to EF-5 (incredible). THE AFTERMATH First responders spent countless hours at the tornado sites in Camp Creek, Horse Creek, Ducktown and other hard-hit areas. They included members of volunteer fire departments and others who donated their time in relief efforts. Many of their stories are retold in detail in the special tornado section of Benchmarks. Area businesses, church groups, civic clubs
and private citizens also pitched in. Greene County was declared a federal disaster area on May 1 by President Barack Obama. Officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) eventually arrived at the scene, bringing muchneeded reinforcements to local relief agencies. A steady stream of elected officials — Gov. Bill Haslam, U.S. Sens. Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker, U.S. Rep. Phil Roe, R-1st, of Johnson City, along with state and local officials, toured the hardest-hit areas of Greene County. Greene County Mayor Alan Broyles emphasized after the tornadoes that officials have a long-term commitment to cleaning up the storm-affected areas. “Folks, we are on the
move. It’s going to take some time, but if you bear with us, we will help you,” Broyles told survivors after the storms passed through the area. PROGRESS CONTINUES Nearly one year later, the progress is apparent. But the victims of the tornadoes are not forgotten. A memorial service is planned on Saturday, April 28, in Camp Creek. (Please see related article on Page 3.) The April 27-28 tornado outbreak in Greene County and across East Tennessee likely won’t be repeated again for at least 50 years, Mathews said during the 2011 program at Carson-Newman College. “There’s a 2 percent chance you will have it in any given year,” he said. “Check this one off for our generation.”
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Saturday, March 31, 2012
THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
5
‘Band Perry’ Enjoys A Record Year, Memorable Shows BY LISA WARREN STAFF WRITER
It has been a solid break-through year for Greeneville’s own The Band Perry. The country music entertainers garnered several prestigious music awards and nominations; they performed at the White House; and they even made history at the storied “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman Auditorium. Among their many accolades during the past 12 months, the Perry siblings were named “Best New Artist of the Year” by both the Country Music Association (CMA) and the Academy of Country Music (ACM). In addition, their single, “If I Die Young,” penned by Kimberly Perry, was named CMA “Single of the Year” as well as CounAP FILE PHOTO try Music Television’s “Breakthrough Video of From left, Neil, Kimberly and Reid Perry perform at the 2012 Grammy Awards show. the Year.” The trio also made their second trip to the show also included: 2011 Grammy Awards, where American Idol runner-up they were nominated as Lauren Alaina, Dierks “Best New Artist of the Bentley, Alison Krauss, Year.” Kris Kristofferson, Lyle This award is presentLovett, Darius Rucker ed to the person or group and James Taylor. chosen as top new enterThis was the seventh tainer of the year among “In Performance at the all musical genres. White House” event hostJustin Vernon’s band ed by President and Mrs. Bon Iver received that Barack Obama. award, topping fellow The concert was broadnominees The Band castNov. 23 on PBS. Perry, Nicki Minaj, J. Cole and Skrillex. GROUP OF YEAR NOMINEE The Perrys are currentGLEN CAMPBELL TRIBUTE ly nominated as the 2012 While at this year’s ACM Group of the Year. Grammy Awards, the PerOn March 19, the sibrys performed on stage lings hosted a GAC teleduring a tribute to the vision special, highlightlegendary Glen Camping the 2012 ACM New bell, who announced Artist of the Year conhis retirement last year tenders. AP FILE PHOTO after disclosing he had The winner of the New The Band Perry performed with legendary country artist Glen Campbell, center, Artist of the Year categoAlzheimer’s disease. On Feb. 20, the Per- at the 2012 Grammy Awards. At far left is Kimberly Perry. Her brother, Reid, is at ry will be announced on rys were the group that right in photo. the 47th Annual Academy reopened the legendof Country Music Awards ary Ryman Auditorium, broadcast live from the after the historic venue MGM Grand Garden received a new stage Arena in Las Vegas on floor: only the third in Sunday, April 1, at 8 p.m. the more than a century on CBS. history of the building. The Band Perry was MORE CERTIFIED GOLD the first act to perform In early March, the on the new Ryman stage. group’s latest single, “All It was the band’s first Your Life,” was certiheadlining show in Nashfied gold by the Recordville, and it sold out in a ing Industry Of America mere 20 minutes when (RIAA). tickets went on sale back In addition, the RIAA in August. There were has certified the Perry’s 2,300 tickets available. megahit “If I Die Young” On the day of the show’s Quadruple Platinum for sellout, Kimberly Perry, sales exceeding 4 millead vocalist for the trio lion. that also includes her The Band Perry’s brothers Reid and Neil, breakout hit is the only spoke emotionally about single from a debut headlining the historic album in the last 18 Ryman venue in a city months to achieve this that has already given status and has sold AP PHOTO/EVAN AGOSTINI more copies than any them so much support. “It’s an amazing thing. Shown above, from left, Neil, Kimberly, and Reid Perry of The Band Perry pause other country artist in So much of our creative for a moment backstage with their awards at the 45th Annual Country Music the same timeframe. efforts have come inside Association Awards in Nashville on Nov. 9. The group’s awards were for “Single of The irony of the title Nashville — and it’s the the Year,” “Song of the Year,” and “New Artist of the Year.” and the song’s enduring center of our creativity,” success are not lost on Perry said. the sibling trio. “We so much revere that “We are honored by [Ryman] stage. And I feel Opry, though the Opry “Christmas in Washing- network. this acknowledgment like there’s an amazing moved to the Opry House ton” special along with On Nov. 21, The Band and thankful that so spirit about that place,” in 1974. Justin Bieber, Cee Lo Perry had been in Wash- many of you have conshe added. Green, Jennifer Hudson ington, D.C., where they nected with this song,” The Ryman is still the AT THE WHITE HOUSE and Victoria Justice. The performed at the White said Kimberly Perry, building most associatIn December, The Band show aired on Dec. 11 on House. who was honored as the ed with The Grand Ole Perry appeared in the the TNT cable television The country music song’s author with the
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2011 CMA Award for “Song of the Year.” “Each time the bar is set, it seems that The Band Perry surpasses it! Selling over 4 million downloads on just one song is a huge accomplishment,” said Jimmy Harnen, Republic Nashville President. “This extremely talented group is remarkable, and we’re thrilled to have them as part of the Republic Nashville family,” he said. The Band Perry is currently touring as a special guest on Brad Paisley’s “Virtual Reality World Tour” 2012. Among the stops on the tour was the March 2 soldout show at Thompson-Boling Arena, in Knoxville. In mid-March of this year, the siblings took their high-energy sound to Texas, where they performed to another sold-out crowd of more than 74,000, at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Their appearance catapulted them into the upper echelon, garnering the third-highest attendance at the annual Houston event. “We are thrilled to have had such a talented trio perform on the RodeoHouston® stage,” said Leroy Shafer, chief operating officer of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. “Just two short years ago, The Band Perry made their Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo debut by playing at our World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, and now, they are selling out Reliant Stadium and breaking RodeoHouston records. “Their presence is definitely known in Houston,” he said. Following their Texas performance, the Perrys headed “across the pond,” where they performed shows in London and Dublin. Next up, the Perrys are scheduled to perform April 1 on the ACM award show in Las Vegas, and then head back out on Brad Paisley’s “Virtual Reality Tour,” where a show is scheduled for April 10 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The “ Virtual Reality Tour” is also scheduled to make a stop on Saturday, June 9, at historic Wrigley Field in Chicago. The Band Perry will be performing there as a special guest along with several other acts. Affectionately known as the “Friendly Confines,” Wrigley Field is starting its 99th season of hosting baseball. This is only the second time that Wrigley Field has been the site for a live country concert. Their next up-tempo single, “Postcard From PLEASE SEE BAND PERRY | 7
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
Civil War Sesquicentennial Comes Alive With Many Events BY KRISTEN BUCKLES STAFF WRITER
Tall hats and short beards abounded in 2011 during several events recognizing the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Nationally, the sesquicentennial commemoration of the War Between the States will run through 2015. Locally, the Annual National Convention of Abraham Lincoln Presenters started the events off last April with a full weekend of activities, highlighted by a program of music and drama at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Approximately 800 people filled the auditorium to hear the 113th U.S. Army Band, of Fort Knox, Ky., and view numerous portrayals of such famous figures as Lincoln, his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and Andrew Johnson. The program combined Civil War-era music with the portrayal of Johnson by Daniel Luther, of Greeneville, along with portrayals of Lincoln by four others from various parts of Tennessee. State Rep. David Hawk, R-5th, of Greeneville, now holds the legislative seat Johnson once filled. Hawk served as the master of ceremonies and narrator for the event. In addition to the concert, other convention events included a colloquium featuring a leading national authority on Lincoln as well as several local citizens with expertise concerning him, and a Civil War period-style ball at the General Morgan Inn. On Saturday, the convention attendees — many of them decked in the black clothing and tall hats associated with Lincoln — toured local historic points of interest via Greene Coach bus. However, the conven-
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
Abraham Lincoln Presenter Chris Small, of Greeneville, delivers Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address in April at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, in connection with a Civil War Sesquicentennial concert by the 113th U.S. Army Band.
SUN PHOTO BY JIM FELTMAN
Members of the 1860s Living History and Dance Society greet the Grand Marshals, standing at right, for the opening Grand March during the Civil War Christmas Ball in early December. The ball was held at the Andrew Johnson Club House on Old Indian Hills Drive. tion began with a somber note on the exact anniversary of the day John Wilkes Booth fatally shot Lincoln in 1865. Therefore, the following day, Friday, was the anniversary of the day of Johnson’s swearing-in
as Lincoln’s successor as president. That Johnson succeeded Lincoln played a key role in the decision to hold the convention in Greeneville, where Johnson lived throughout his public life.
CONGRATULATIONS to the fine folks voted by the people as
Greeneville’s
SECESSION CRISIS The reenactments continued in June but rewound four years to 1861 in order to recognize first the speech that then-U.S. Sen. Andrew Johnson made from the balcony of his homestead,
followed by recognition of the Unionist Convention in Greeneville. Local historian Dr. Robert Orr narrated both reenactments. Orr set the scene by stating that the secession crisis of 1860 began when the Republican Party won majorities in both houses of Congress and also won the Presidency. States of the Deep South began leaving the Union in December 1860, continuing into 1861. Johnson, along with most others in this part of Tennessee, favored remaining in the Union, but that view was far from unanimous. Because of his opposition to secession, Johnson was run out of Tusculum and Jonesborough, but was well received in areas such as Elizabethton and Rogersville. Daniel Luther portrayed Johnson and was joined on the balcony by reenactors Connie Whaley as Johnson’s wife, Eliza, and Richard Williams, as their son, Robert.
Luther presented Johnson’s very strong language against secession, describing it as “an approaching storm” and treason. “Those who protect it and attempt to carry it out are traitors to their country,” Johnson said. The Unionist Convention was reenacted by five primary reenactors. Bill Ringel led the convention as Thomas A.R. Nelson. Other speakers included Jim Allen as Gen. Thomas D. Arnold; Richard Williams as Robert Johnson, a son of Sen. Johnson; George Blanks as Horace Maynard; and Carlos Whaley as Oliver P. Temple. Also speaking during the reenactment was Mack Cothran as Confederate Col. Roberdeau Wheat. As at the original Greeneville Convention, Nelson introduced six resolutions opposing secession. Although all five convention delegates were in agreement on the main points, Arnold and Johnson voted to leave the resolutions as they were presented, while Maynard and Temple urged that they be modified to a form that would be less antagonistic to the Tennessee legislature and more likely to win success. Nelson then asked Maynard and Temple to prepare and submit a modified version of the resolutions. Orr said the convention lasted four days and resulted in a request for East Tennessee to be allowed to separate from Tennessee and form a separate state loyal to the U.S. The proposal was submitted to the Legislature but rejected. The convention in Greeneville was a last chance for a peaceful solution against secession, Orr said. PLEASE SEE CIVIL WAR | 8
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
7
Fundraising Walks Show The Generosity Of The Community BY LISA WARREN STAFF WRITER
The citizens of Greeneville and Greene County are known for their generosity — and never is that more apparent than when it comes time to raise money for a worthy cause. Despite the continuing financial hard times, several local charitable walks continued to do well in their fundraising efforts during the past year. The Greene County Relay for Life, an annual community fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, raised more than $180,000 last year. It was the 17th year for the event, and organizers were extremely pleased with the results. Funds from the event benef it the research projects and patient services of the American Cancer Society. Prior to the annual Relay for Life, which usually is held in June at the Greeneville Middle School track, teams that agree to participate hold a variety of fundraising events or solicit donations for the American Cancer Society. During the Relay for Life, the team members take turns walking relaystyle laps around the track from early evening until early morning. Walking is not the only part of the Relay. The event also features entertainment, food and
Band Perry Starts on Page 5 Paris,” has been released to country radio and is receiving airplay.
SUN FILE PHOTO BY JIM FELTMAN
Local cancer survivors begin the 17th annual American Cancer Society Greene County Relay for Life, which raised more than $180,000. Last year’s “Relay for Life” was dedicated to the memory of Dr. Ronald Cole, who helped found the annual community fundraiser in 1995. Dr. Cole, a long-time Greeneville physician, died Aug. 9, 2010, following a heart attack. Several activities, including a concert by country music entertainer David Ball and a special luminaria ceremony to recognize cancer victims, took place throughout the evening. other activities that the public is invited to attend. At dusk, a special luminaria ceremony is held to honor cancer victims. This year’s Greene County Relay for Life will be held on Friday, June 15, on Father’s Day weekend, and to commemorate this event, organizers are seeking fathers who are also cancer survivors to serve as honorary survivor chairs. For more details about the Relay for Life, call 638-3299 or go online to www.relayforlife.org/greeenetn
MARCH OF DIMES AND MARCH FOR BABIES Other health-based advocacy groups have also seen continued support for their fundraising walking events held in Greeneville the past year. The March of Dimes, which has had a long history of fundraising success in Greeneville, continues to hold its annual walk each April. Last year’s March for Babies resulted in about $40,000 being raised to benefit the organization that works to prevent birth
defects and premature births. This year’s Greeneville March for Babies is scheduled for Saturday, April 28, on the campus of Greene Valley Developmental Center. For more information about participating, call the March of Dimes office in Johnson City at 461-8840.
GIVING BACK, LOCALLY In addition to making a name for themselves in country music, the Perrys have also given back during the past year to the local community, where they share a home with their parents Steve
and Marie Perry. Their grandmother, Betty Lou Sullivan, also lives here. In January, the Perrys helped launch Purina Dog Chow’s “DareUs-Back” campaign, in which the band’s dog-
owning fans were “dared” to try out the company’s new dog chow formula on their pets. Thanks to their efforts, the canine residents of the Greeneville-Greene County Humane Society’s Animal Adoption Center
patient services. Contributions raised through this annual walk benefit the National MS Society. This year’s Greeneville MS Walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 21, on the campus of Tusculum College. For more information about MS or to register for the walk, go online to GREENEVILLE MS WALK walktns.nationalmssociety. The annual Greeneville org or call local walk orgaMS Walk held in April nizer Jan Pass at 639-1904. resulted in nearly $20,000 being collected to aid mul- MEMORY WALK tiple sclerosis research and The Greeneville Memory
received 10,000 pounds of dog food in April, courtesy of Purina. Following the devastating tornadoes in April, the band members also took time to visit the hard-hit Camp Creek community, where they
Walk, held each fall, benefits those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Last year’s walk held in Septemeber netted about $6,400 for the area chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, which serves patients throughout Northeast Tennessee, including Greene County. For more information about services provided by the area Alzheimer’s Association chapter or to learn more about getting involved with the walk this year, call 928-4080.
helped deliver meals with Red Cross volunteers. The band also dedicated a spot on their website to the local tornado relief efforts, encouraging their fans to donate to the relief work in their home community.
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
SUN FILE PHOTO BY O.J. EARLY
Reconstruction of the Babb Family Log Home, at the corner of McKee and College streets, is a major BABB FAMILY PHOTO, SPECIAL TO THE SUN project of both the Babb Family and the Nathanael Members of the Babb family who helped in 2011 in reassembling the walls of the 1787 log house built by Greene Museum. Work has been done since NovemSeth Babb Sr. pose with the house. The pioneer house will stand in Fox Park, which is owned by the Nathanael ber on various parts of the home, located in Fox Park along Richland Creek. The park is diagonally across Greene Museum. The house will be on permanent loan to the museum for educational purposes. from the museum.
Babb Family Home Rises Again At Its New Location Downtown BY O.J. EARLY STAFF WRITER
The process of re-erecting the more-than-200year-old Babb Family Home was begun in 2011, and since November, work has continued on the pioneer-era structure. The home now has
Civil War Starts on Page 6 BRIDGE BURNERS Even after the Unionist Convention failed in June, the Union movement remained alive in East Tennessee and was expressed in full fury in November of that same year, 1861. Unionist sympathizers from the Pottertown area of western Greene County burned the East Tennessee & Virginia Railroad bridge over Lick Creek as a part of a coordinated effort by Union forces to
completed walls and a nearly-completed roof, with interior work being the final phase of the project. The house now stands in Fox Park, which is owned by the Nathanael Greene Museum, along Richland Creek in downtown Greeneville. The log house was
built by Revolutionary War veteran Seth Babb Sr. and dates to 1787. The roughly 22-footby-24 -foot str ucture will be on permanent loan to the nearby museum, and will eventually be open to the public. The two-story house was built along the present-day Kingsport High-
way, about a half-mile from the Newmansville Crossroads. The log house was in continuous use for more than 100 years, when a larger home was built next door by Seth Babb’s descendants. The older structure continued to be used for various purposes, including
as a barn. During a 2004 Babb family reunion in Greeneville, family members toured the weather-worn house and made plans to take it down and preserve it. The log house was disassembled in 2006 and had been in storage until last November, when the
walls were raised at its current location. Daniel Babb, who serves as the Babb family genealogist, has said that the interior should be complete by this summer, when a larger family gathering is expected in Greeneville for a formal dedication.
burn railroad bridges over a large area of the South. The bridge-burnings were to be followed by a Union military invasion. Unknown to the bridgeburners, however, the invasion was canceled, and retaliation by Confederate forces was swift. The Unionist actions resulted in arrests, trails and the hanging of five of the participating local Unionists. A century-and-a-half later, six people with an active interest in Greene County’s history read from trial transcripts of Harrison Self, one of the local bridge-burner
defendants, along with other writings by those who had a role in the bridge-burning. Participants, some wearing Confederate uniforms, others wearing period clothing, included Ringel, Blanks, Joe Kilday, Orr, Whaley and Earl Fletcher, director of the Nathanael Greene Museum, where the presentation took place. The event took place as a means of publicizing to the community, through a series of upcoming events at the museum, the significant role the county played in
the Civil War.
Morgan, a brigadier general in the Confederacy and a famed cavalry leader, died Sept. 4, 1864, in Greeneville when he was killed by Union cavalry units. Brown described Morgan as a “fine specimen of manhood” and “a dashing cavalryman” who disrupted Union communication and supply lines, captured and paroled numerous Union troops, and inf licted millions of dollars in damage to U.S. property. He also said that Morgan was “a very sensitive man.” “Like many sensitive
people, he was plagued all his life with manic depression,” Brown said. “Many of his military successes and his failures were betrayed by his state of mind at the time.” By the time he arrived in Greeneville, he was a dispirited man, Brown added. Morgan was killed only hours after reaching Greeneville to spend the night with friends, in what is now known as the Dickson-Williams Mansion. By this time in history, the Confederacy itself was on its final downhill slide.
HERITAGE TRUST The Greene County Heritage Trust concluded the year’s Civil War commemoration with the organization’s 39th annual Early American Christmas Dinner, held in early December at the General Morgan Inn with more than 150 people in attendance. Kent Masterson Brown, of Lexington, Ky., a Civil War historian and attorney, served as keynote speaker, with the topic of “John Hunt Morgan: Thunderbolt of the Confederacy.”
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
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Student Athletes Received Many Team, Individual Honors FROM STAFF REPORTS As with most years, from the spring of 2011 through the winter sports of 2012, Greene County was well represented in its athletic endeavors. STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS Greeneville High School won its second straight TSSAA Class 4A BlueCross Bowl, taking the state football championship with a 37-0 shutout of Maplewood in December in Cookeville (Please see complete report on Page 4). Greeneville also won the boys cross country Class A/AA state championship in November in Nashville. The team members were Ra’Sham Dickson, Alex Biumi, Jacob Norris, Wesley King, Atlas Fagundes, Wesley Pectol, Zach Weaver, Ben Simpson and Coach Larry Blalock. Pectol led the way with a third-place overall finish, and along with King, earned All-State recognition. Greeneville’s girls placed second in the state cross country meet a year after winning the state title. GHS senior Alyssa Crum won an individual state championship in the shot put, with her throw beating the rest of the field by three feet in Murfreesboro in May. FOOTBALL Back-to-back state football titles for the Greene Devils highlighted a year that saw many accomplishments. Greeneville senior Terrell Rollins was named TSSAA Class AA Mr. Football as the state’s top lineman. Teammate Jamel Hall, a senior, was also a finalist for the award. West Greene senior running back Dalton Boles was a finalist for the state’s top back.
and Patrick Gwinn along with South Greene’s Jackson Scott all earned AllState recognition. Justis was also named the Region 1-A/AA Player of the Year. Scott set the conference scoring record with 28 goals last season. BASEBALL/SOFTBALL North Greene and Greeneville both earned Sub-State berths in baseball. Chuckey-Doak senior Christian Ward was named All-State in softball after helping lead the Lady Knights to Sub-State. VOLLEYBALL South Greene’s Maelyn Cutshaw and Javan Wilhoit earned All-State honors in volleyball after helping lead the Lady Rebels to the state volleyball tournament and a final four appearance. North Greene’s girls PHOTO SPECIAL TO SUN Greeneville High School’s boys’ cross country team won the Class A/AA Tennessee State Championship in also earned their way to Nashville in November. Team members, on the podium to receive the championship trophy, are, from left: the state tournament. It was the third straight Ra’Sham Dickson, Alex Biumi, Jacob Norris, Wesley King, Atlas Fagundes, Wesley Pectol, Zach Weaver, Ben year North Greene and Simpson and Coach Larry Blalock. South Greene reached Rollins and Boles were BASKETBALL neers earned a berth in the Creek in Morristown. Murfreesboro. named The Greeneville Chuckey-Doak High NCAA Division II TourGreeneville’s Pectol and Sun’s Greene County School’s Lady Black nament. South Greene’s Upton WRESTLING/BOWLING Players of the Year. Knights had the best run North Greene’s Mariah won the region individual Greeneville High School North Greene High among the local high school Britton, South Greene championships. sophomore Jon Boatman School coach Josh Edens basketball teams this High School’s Ansley In last spring’s state placed second in the state was named the local season, with Coach Beth Ricker and Greeneville’s track meet, Greeneville’s wrestling tournament at Coach of the Year after Frye’s team winning the Samantha Fender were Hannah Rhodes placed 106 pounds. leading the Huskies to Region 1-AA champion- named All-State in bas- second in the 1600m run, Boatman, a two-time their first winning record ship and hosting Sub- ketball for their efforts and Melchionna (running Region 1 champion, finin school history and into State for the first time following the 2010-11 sea- for GHS) placed third. ished the season with more the second round of the in school history. son. Greeneville’s boys team than 30 victories. playoffs. Chuckey-Doak’s Karly of Dylan Jones, Derek GibGreeneville’s Caleb Nunn North Greene’s Zach Frye and North Greene’s CROSS COUNTRY/TRACK son, Mark Edwards and placed fourth out of 72 in Britton was named Class Matthew Weems were Chuckey-Doak’s Simeon Burrow (of Chuckey-Doak, the TSSAA state bowling 2A All-State. named the Sun’s local Roberts, South Greene’s running for GHS) placed tournament. South Greene’s Cole players of the year. Cheyenne Upton, West second in the state 4x800 Greeneville senior Baxley, Chuckey-Doak’s There were some Greene’s Macy Parham relay. Summer Garber made Julius Montgomery and coaching changes to and Chuckey-Doak’s Madher fourth trip to the West Greene’s Boles earned start the season, with dison Melchionna earned SOCCER girls state bowling tourClass 3A All-State recogni- Lesley Murray tak- All-State honors in cross Greeneville High School’s nament. tion. ing over Greeneville’s country. boys soccer team, under The Class 4A team was girls, Ed Gettys becomRoberts placed fourth head coach Jerry Graham, GOLF full of Greene Devils: Roll- ing West Greene High at the state meet in Nash- earned the program’s firstGreeneville High School ins, Hall, Derrik Thornton, School’s girls coach and ville. Upton was eighth. ever trip to the state soccer senior Elliott Taliaferro Koryei Jefferson, Taylor J.D. Douglas taking Parham finished 12th. tournament in May. won the District and Shuffler, Tanner Stewart, over the Buff boys. Melchionna placed 13th. The Devils claimed their Region 1 individual golf Justin Tomlinson, Trey Michael Jones was Chuckey-Doak’s Lawson second straight region title, titles, booking his way Clark and Ben Ogle. named Tusculum Col- Burrow set a Blue Ridge then won 4-0 over Gibbs in to the state tournament Greeneville coach Caine lege men’s head coach in Athletic Conference record Sub-State to make the trip in Manchester, where he Ballard was named state August. to win the conference meet to Murfreesboro. tied for 12th with teamCoach of the Year. Tusculum’s Lady Pio- with a 16:43.97 at Panther Greeneville’s Sam Justis mate Tyler Justis.
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
Saturday, March 31, 2012
The Tornadoes BUSINESS: Meade Tractor To Open On Saturday. A-8
Conducting Cooking Class. A-4 Selected First By Panthers. B-1
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The Greeneville Sun
The Greeneville Sun
An independent newspaper celebrating its 133rd year of service to Greeneville and Greene County
An independent newspaper celebrating its 133rd year of service to Greeneville and Greene County
FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2011
VOL. 133, NO. 101| GREENEVILLE, TENNESSEE
2SECTIONS | FIFTY CENTS
Teams Comb The Wreckage Storms Kill At Least Six THURSDAY, APRIL 28, 2011
VOL. 133, NO. 100| GREENEVILLE, TENNESSEE
2 SECTIONS | FIFTY CENTS
• Victims Identified • Tornado Confirmed • Recovery Begins
GL&PS Says Power To Be Out For Days; County Is Declared A Disaster Area
BY KEN LITTLE STAFF WRITER
BY KEN LITTLE STAFF WRITER
As dawn broke today, the path of death and destruction wrought by suspected tornadoes and severe storms in sections of Greene County was revealed. At least six deaths were confirmed — five in the Camp Creek area of Greene County, and another in the southeast section of the county near the Washington County line. At least four South Greene-area residents were unaccounted for, as search and rescue teams fanned out this morning looking for survivors. “We’re still doing search and rescue. We have four still unaccountedfor that I know of. We’re PLEASE SEE STORMS | A-3
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
This house on Bishop Loop was one of several homes that were totally destroyed by the violent storms that swept through parts of Greene County on Wednesday night.
Family Survives, But Hearts Ache For The Less Fortunate I have lived in Greene County practically all of my life. I have seen floods, snow storms and even high winds. However, I have never experienced a night of storms like we had last night in our community. Throughout the evening, my mother, son and I were constantly monitoring the television, radio and Internet reports of the approaching storm systems. Initially it appeared that we had dodged two bullets where we live after two major storm
E-mail your storm and damage photos and video to webmaster@ GreenevilleSun.com
BY KEN LITTLE
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
This house on Rambo Road in southern Greene County was one of those demolished by Wednesday night’s storms. As of early this morning, the residents are believed to be safe. PLEASE SEE SURVIVES | B-8
Hospital Emergency Rooms ‘Inundated’ With Injuries
Food, Water, Other Aid On Way To The Victims
Prayers Of Community Expressed On Facebook
BY AMY ROSE
BY KATHY KNIGHT
BY AMY ROSE
STAFF WRITER
ACCENT EDITOR
STAFF WRITER
Local emergency rooms remained busy overnight treating victims of storm-related injuries. Takoma Regional Hospital’s emergency room was “inundated” from 2 to 3:30 a.m., according to Lyndon Gallimore, the hospital’s director of marketing and business development. Patients were treated for head injuries, lacerations and bone injuries, Gallimore said. Because of the high number of patients, the hospital opened its same-day surgery area for treatment
What can you do to help? How will people be fed? Anthony Morrison, Red Cross executive director, said, “Many people call and ask us how to help in a disaster. We appreciate it, and truly the most important thing we need right now is money to help purchase food and supplies to help those in need.” As of 9 a.m. today, Morrison said there were 45 people in the Asbury United Methodist Church shelter and 11 more who were receiving treatment at
Much of the information posted by Greene Countians on Facebook overnight and this morning was related to storm damage. The social-networking Internet site seemed to be busier than normal among local residents, their friends and family members, because many of them could not sleep during the storms. Facebook friends of this reporter were posting primarily two types of information — updates on the aftermath, and requests for prayers.
PLEASE SEE HOSPITALS | A-16
PLEASE SEE VICTIMS | A-6
PLEASE SEE FACEBOOK | A-11
PLEASANT GROVE, Ala. (AP) — Dozens of tornadoes ripped through the South, flattening homes and businesses and killing at least 214 people in six states in the deadliest outbreak in nearly 40 years. As day broke today, people
in hard-hit Alabama surveyed flattened, debris-strewn neighborhoods and told of pulling bodies from rubble after the storms passed Wednesday afternoon and evening. “It happened so fast it was unbelievable,” said Jerry Stewart, a 63-year-old retired firefighter who was picking through the remains of his son’s wrecked home in Pleas-
ant Grove, a suburb of Birmingham. “They said the storm was in Tuscaloosa and it would be here in 15 minutes. And before I knew it, it was here.” He and his wife, along with their daughter and two grandchildren, survived by hiding under their front porch. Friends down the street who did the same weren’t so lucky
OBITUARIES
— Stewart said he pulled out the bodies of two neighbors whose home was ripped off its foundation. Alabama’s state emergency management agency said it had confirmed 131 deaths, while there were 32 in Mississippi, 29 in Tennessee, 13 in Georgia, eight in Virginia and one in Kentucky. The National Weather Ser-
vice’s Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., said it received 137 tornado reports into Wednesday night. Some of the worst damage was in Tuscaloosa, a city of more than 83,000 that is home to the University of Alabama. Neighborhoods there were levPLEASE SEE TORNADOES |A-6
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What officials are calling the worst natural disaster in Greene County history is measured on a human scale by personal tragedy. One such scenario was ongoing Thursday at 625 Tabor Road, where one man died and his wife was critically injured in the powerful tornado that forever changed dozens of lives Wednesday night. Only one room remained of the home on a hill that Bobby Gene Harrison and his wife Vera Sue shared with their daughter Sheena, her fiancee Bryan Wright and two small children.
Kiwanis Club Postpones Its Annual ‘Kapers’ Show
BY AMY ROSE
In response to the devastating storms which rolled through Greene County Wednesday night, the Kiwanis Club of Greeneville has decided to postpone its annual Kiwanis Kapers show. The show was originally scheduled for tonight and Saturday night at the Annie Hogan Byrd Auditorium at Tusculum College. But club members decided at their regular Thursday noon meeting to postpone the performance to an undetermined weekend in May. “This was a hard decision for us to make,” said Club President, Barbara Miller. “We felt torn between forging ahead to try to provide a little comic relief during this tragedy, and postponing the performance for a couple of weeks to give the community a little time to heal. “We certainly want to show our respect for those who were injured or lost their homes, and especially for those dealing with the loss of loved ones,” she said. The date and location will be announced as soon as a new venue can be found.
STAFF WRITER
Power has been restored to about 2,500 of the 5,000 Greeneville Light & Power System customers who were affected by the storms. Work to restore the remaining outages is progressing slowly, but could be completed earlier than expected because of outside help from visiting utility workers, said Bill Carroll, GL&PS general manager. He projected that all power outages could be restored within the next couple of days. Utility workers from as far away as Bowling Green, Ky., are working
WASHINGTON (AP) — Osama bin Laden, the face of global terrorism and architect of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, was killed in a firefight with elite American forces today, then quickly buried at sea in a stunning finale to a
MONDAY, MAY 2, 2011
furtive decade on the run. Long believed to be hiding in caves, bin Laden was tracked down in a costly, custom-built hideout not far from a Pakistani military academy. The stunning news of his death prompted relief and euphoria outside the White House and around the globe, yet also fears of terrorist reprisals against the United
States and its allies. “Justice has been done,” President Barack Obama said in a dramatic announcement at the White House. The military operation took mere minutes, and there were no U.S. casualties. U.S. helicopters ferried troops from Navy SEAL Team Six, a top military
counter-terrorism unit, into the compound identified by the CIA as bin Laden’s hideout — and back out again in less than 40 minutes. Bin Laden was shot in the head, officials said, after he and his bodyguards resisted the PLEASE SEE BIN LADEN | A-8
BY JOHN M. JONES JR. EDITOR
At Horse Creek as at Camp Creek a few miles away, Sunday was a time for residents to continue to sift through the destruction that Wednesday night’s storms and tornadoes left behind. It was also a time to reflect with gratitude and some amazement on how much worse the devastation could have been. Houses and mobile homes in various areas of the Horse Creek Community were hit as hard as the hardest-hit areas of Camp Creek, with many homes demolished. National Weather Service data over the weekend confirm that the Horse Creek tornado was even stronger than the one that devastated Camp Creek. (See related article on this page). SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY But only one of the six Greene County Mayor Alan Broyles, left, and Greene County Emergency Management Agency Director Greene County deaths Bill Brown, in dark shirt, talk with Hubert and Tammy Hicks late Sunday afternoon at the site of their
demolished home on Eades Lane, in the Horse Creek Community. The tornado that hit the Hicks’ home and destroyed it transported them in the air to a point about 30 yards short of the light-colored home in the background. They suffered scratches and some bruises but no serious injuries.
PLEASE SEE GL&PS | A-10
3 Distinct Tornadoes Hit County
An independent newspaper celebrating its 133rd year of service to Greeneville and Greene County
VOL. 133, NO. 107| GREENEVILLE, TENNESSEE
Relief Agencies Move In: FEMA, Red Cross, Others
ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR
National Weather Service survey teams working in Greene County over the weekend have determined that three separate tornadoes touched down here late Wednesday. The first one, an EF2 (Enhanced Fujita scale) struck just south of Fall Branch, in far northeastern Greene County at 9:26 p.m. This tornado had maximum winds of 120 mph, was on the ground for 10 miles, and was 150 yards wide. No injuries were reported in this tornado, according to David Hotz, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Morristown. The second tornado struck at 10:56 p.m. in the Camp Creek community as an EF2 tornado with maximum winds of 130 mph, Hotz said. This twister was on the PLEASE SEE TORNADOES | A-9
Victims Receive Answers About Basic Needs From Local Authorities
BY AMY ROSE STAFF WRITER
Worshippers from as far away as Europe were praying Sunday morning for tornado recovery in Greene County. At Bethesda United Methodist Church, off the 107 Cutoff, hearts were heavy, but hopes were high for its sister church, Mt. Tabor UMC. Mt. Tabor was heavily damaged in the April 27 storms, losing its steeple and a portion of its roof. But more importantly, the church PLEASE SEE WORSHIPPERS | A-9
For Help And To Donate
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
PLEASE SEE OBAMA | A-12
Officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flew over tornado-damaged areas of Greene County on Saturday afternoon.
Shower, Laundry Facilities Are Now Available To Victims BY AMY ROSE STAFF WRITER
First Baptist Church of Greeneville is operating a shower trailer at the Washington County tornado disas-
ter relief command post. The trailer, which features six showers and a laundry facility, is located at the Nolichuckey Valley Volunteer Fire Department, near the Greene County line on the
OBITUARIES
Erwin Highway. Bradley, a member of First Anyone affected by the Baptist Church. tornadoes who needs to Washington County offitake a hot shower or wash cials asked the church to some clothes can come to PLEASE SEE SHOWER | A-9 the trailer from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., according to Margaret
OUTSIDE
FOR STORM VICTIMS: • Greeneville Light & Power System: 423-636-6200. • CenturyLink: 423-639-6711. • State Rep. Jeremy Faison, R11th, of Cosby: 615-741-6871. TO DONATE: • Greene County Emergency Management: 423-798-1279. • The local Red Cross: 423-6386441. • Free Will Baptist Family Ministries: 423-639-9449.
INSIDE
2 SECTIO
FEMA Prov Explanatio Signup Pro ATLANTA — Storm victims in Tennessee who suffered damage should apply for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency — even if you have insurance or aren’t sure you are eligible. Federal disaster assistance will not duplicate benefits, but may provide for uncovered losses. Grants may be available to help pay for rental assistance and emergency home repairs.
BY RICH JONES
Obama Declares Federal Disaster; FEMA Surveys Damage From The Air
Greene County has been declared a federal disaster area following deadly tornadoes that claimed six lives on April 27. The declaration by President Barack Obama on Sunday, which will result in financial assistance from the federal government, was confirmed this morning by the office of U.S. Rep.
FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2011
Weather Service Data State Exact Path, Length And Width Of Each One
Worshippers Gather In Time Of Recovery, ‘Time Of Resurrection’
STAFF WRITER
PLEASE SEE KIWANIS | A-6
The Greeneville Sun Reimb other se related include funeral o Also, renters, ers and nizations for low-i loans fro Business (SBA) t from loss
Action Planned To Building Permit Fe Homes In Tornado BY AMY ROSE STAFF WRITER
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
Bob Hoch, of 245 Rambo Road, watches on Thursday as the house he had lived in for 15 years burns to the ground. Hoch said he had asked his insurance company what to do with what remained of his tornado-damaged home. He was reportedly told to do what he wanted. Hoch then decided to burn what remained.
Many Other Resources Now Available At FWBFM Campus BY KEN LITTLE
BY AMY ROSE
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
Greeneville Light & Power System crews were busy on Thursday restoring poles and power lines in the Horse Creek area.
LIVING: Summer Music Fest SOCCER RIVALRY: Black Knights T-Shirts On Sale. A-5 Beat Rebels.B-1
2 SECTIONS | FIFTY CENTS
Devastation In Horse Creek Brings Terror, And Survival
PLEASE SEE SURVIVAL |A-10
with GL&PS crews to restore power. The bulk of the outages were in the heavilyhit Camp Creek community in southern Greene County, while other outages were in the areas of Houston Valley Road, also in southern Greene County, and Old Snapps Ferry Road in northeastern Greene County. Carroll estimated that as many as 100 power poles were damaged by the storms. In some areas, groups of 12 to 15 power poles were blown down together. In a few cases, poles were completed pulled
Collect Sunday Victories. B-1
U.S. Kills Osama Bin Laden BY KIMBERLY DOZIER AND DAVID ESPO
Volunteers remove furniture from a home at 1079 Rambo Road in the Camp Creek community destroyed by Wednesday night’s tornado. Jason Gates and his family survived in a closet.
GL&PS Restores Service To Half Those Affected
An independent newspaper celebrating its 133rd year of service to Greeneville and Greene County
ASSOCIATED PRESS
TO DONATE: • Greene County Emergency Management: 423-798-1279. • The local Red Cross: 423-638-6441. • Free Will Baptist Family Ministries: 423-639-9449. SUN PHOTO BY KEN LITTLE
The Greeneville Sun VOL. 133, NO. 103| GREENEVILLE, TENNESSEE
FOR STORM VICTIMS: • Greeneville Light & Power System: 636-6200. • CenturyLink: 423-639-6711. • State Rep. Jeremy Faison, R-11th, of Cosby: 615-741-6871.
PLEASE SEE AFTERMATH | A-5
Tornadoes Devastate South, Killing At Least 214 ASSOCIATED PRESS
PLEASE SEE TEAMS | A-11
For Help And To Donate
STAFF WRITER
cells went north of us into the northern and middle areas of Greene County. At around 11 p.m., however, WJHL meteorologist Mark Reynolds reported that a significant storm cell with Doppler-indicated rotation was traveling from Sevier County into Cocke County and that it was likely headed into southern Greene County.
BY GREG BLUESTEIN AND JAY REEVES
in the home when it was destroyed by the tornado that struck the southern part of the county on Wednesday night. They took refuge in a bathroom to try to escape injury. When the tornado had passed, the bathroom walls were the only ones left standing. In photo above, made Thursday afternoon, Linda holds some dolls she found in the ruins of her home.
Human Tragedy Unfolds In Aftermath Of Tornado
BY LISA WARREN STAFF WRITER
Assessment teams began the task today of combing through the wreckage of a tornado that killed six people and injured about 100 in Greene County Wednesday night. Meanwhile, authorities released the names of the Greene County storm victims. They are: Jess Lester Richesin, of 295 Rambo Road; Marty and Brenda Myers, both of 215 Rambo Road; Bessie Lynn Rice, of 867 Ricker Road; Gene Harrison, of 625 Tabor Road; and Shirley McKinney, 63, of 290 Dunham Road. Arrangements for the victims are incomplete. Another man died in a home in the South Central Community just across the Washington County line. Funeral services for Douglas Penley, SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY 47, of Guy Brown Road, Linda Thompson, above, and her mother, Sue Hensley, lived in this mobile home on Ricker Road in southern Greene County. Both were Chuckey, will be held
STAFF WRITER
Gears are finally beginning to mesh in the effort to coordinate help for victims of the deadly tornadoes that devastated sections of Greene County last week. With no fanfare Thursday morning, Federal Emergency
Management Agency officials affixed a “FEMA-State Disaster Recovery Center” sign on a side door of Camp Creek Elementary School and began setting up shop in the gymnasium. Representatives of the Small Business Administration (SBA), and Appalachian Regional Coalition on Homelessness are also
working out of the gym, offering assistance to storm victims. “They are here. They need to be here,” said Dr. James H. Kilgore, president/CEO of Free Will Baptist Family Ministries. In Greeneville, the American PLEASE SEE RELIEF | A-6
The Greene County Commission’s Budget and Finance Committee voted Wednesday to recommend waiving the building-permit fee for anyone rebuilding a home that was destroyed by the tornadoes of April 27. County Mayor Alan Broyles asked the committee if it would sponsor a resolution waiving the fees, recalling that a similar resolution was adoptced by the County Commission after the flood of 2001. “We don’t need to charge these people anything for anything the county
does,” Co ton Seay their cho building The com authoriz with zon County Woolsey olution th the waiv regulatio permit f victims. It was resolutio only to h affected does, an ing a b still wou P
Prayer Rally Recalls Storm Victims’ Faith Sen. Southerland: ‘They Were Praising God Because They Had Their Lives’ BY AMY ROSE STAFF WRITER
Do you have the faith of Job? This question was
asked Thursday night by State Sen. Steve Southerland, R-1st of Morristown, during a National Day of Prayer rally at Hardin Park. Southerland tried to choke back tears as he recalled meeting many tornado victims who demonstrated the faith of Job, PLEASE SEE PRAYER |A-9
‘Teacher Of Year’ Goes To Kathy Nunnally New Principals Se Her Family Believes The Late Educator’s Spirit Was Present
At WGHS, Mosheim Dr. Julia Lamons T H d WGHS
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12
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
NWS Issues Warning
Local Storm EF-2 Tornado Hits EF-3 Tornado Hits EF-3 Tornado Hits Search & Rescue Shelter Opens Ducktown Area Camp Creek; 5 Killed Horse Creek; 1 Killed Efforts Begin
Early Morning April 27 Midday April 27 9:26 p.m. April 27
10:56 p.m. April 27
12:42 a.m. April 28
Incident Command Post Set Up At Valero Market
Sunrise April 28
Morning April 28
Personal Toll And Scope Of Tornadoes Became Clear The Morning Of April 28 BY KEN LITTLE STAFF WRITER
The scenes of destruction in many sections of Greene County on the morning of April 28, 2011, were unlike anything seen here in living memory. Countless county residents who survived the storm’s fury will never forget. No one knew it yet, but six people were dead in the county, and nearly 300 had been injured. Hundreds of houses, mobile homes, farm buildings and just about anything else in the path of the deadly tornadoes were destroyed or heavily damaged. It would later be confirmed that five separate tornadoes of varying strength touched down in Greene County the night of April 27 and early April 28 as East Tennessee was SUN PHOTO BY LISA WARREN raked by a historic “super cell” outbreak of storms This garage was destroyed and the house severely damaged, at 1270 Houston Valley Road, by the EF-0 tornado that began in the Deep that touched down on April 27. South. But on the morning of April 28, many people had difficulty looking beyond their own front yards — or what was left of them. ‘MAJOR DEVASTATION’ First responders such as Bill Brown, Greene County emergency management director, were beginning several sleepless days and nights as a large-scale searchand-rescue operation got under way. “We’re still doing search and rescue. We have four still unaccounted for that I know of,” Brown said that morning. “We’re counting on families to make sure they notify us.” The Horse Creek and Camp Creek communities had “major devastation,” officials said. Hundreds of law enforcement officers, Greene County- Greeneville Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, volunteer firefighters and others began search-andrescue operations as soon as the sun came up. “There’s a lot of homes destroyed. We will stay in a search-and-rescue mode until everyone’s accounted for. Then, we’ll start damage assessment,” Brown said. County Mayor Alan Broyles and then Gov. Bill Haslam declared Greene County a disaster area that morning. Greene County was
SUN PHOTO BY KEN LITTLE
Rambo Road residents were left to salvage what they could on April 28, 2011, the day after a strong tornado tore through the Camp Creek community. Five people died, and another man died a short time later of injuries suffered in the Camp Creek tornado. declared a federal disaster area on May 1 by President Obama. Mayor Broyles monitored the situation from an Emergency Operations Center set up at the Valero service station at the intersection of Jones Bridge Road and Ten-
nessee Rt. 107 (the 107 and there’s many places Cutoff). you can’t tell where the houses were,” Broyles ‘SO MUCH DEVASTATION’ said. “We’ve got a lot of teams Numerous storm-relatin search-and-rescue ed injuries were reported. here. They’re still search- Local hospital emergency ing. There’s just so much rooms reported treating devastation and so much broken bones and a varidebris scattered around, ety of other injuries.
Broyles was stunned that morning after touring the Camp Creek, Greystone and Horse Creek communities. “You see pictures of it. You see things that have happened in other states and counties. But I’ve never seen anything like
it in Greene County,” he said. “It’s just total devastation, animals killed and lying in the fields. It’s just a terrible sight. Trees snapped off, power lines snapped, there’s power poles down everywhere.” FLOOD RECALLED A flood in 2001 was the last natural disaster to hit Greene County that came remotely close to the destruction caused by the tornadoes that ripped though Greene County and the region. “This is a lot more devastating because we have injuries and loss of life,” Brown said. Several longtime Greene Countians said that day that they could not recall any comparable natural disaster in the county. Events proved them correct. In its initial assessment, the National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed the Camp Creek and Horse Creek tornadoes and said there was “significant structural damage” in the storm’s path. “This looks like a war zone anywhere this wind hit,” Brown said. “It’s just unbelievable. I’ve never seen anything like this.” The comforts of life that Americans take for granted disappeared in a few minutes when the storms hit. Many Greeneville Light & Power System customers were without electricity for days. “Some poles are missing — I mean missing,” GL&PS General Manager Bill Carroll said. “Lots of trees and wires are tangled up. The devastation is significant.” SCHOOL IS SPARED Greene County Schools were closed April 28 due to the widespread damage. Camp Creek Elementary School was spared in the tornado, while houses and other buildings only a short distance away were destroyed, including a building that years ago had been Greystone Elementary School. Efforts were made to get students back into school as soon as possible. Camp Creek Elementary re-opened on May 3. Dr. Vicki Kirk, director of Greene County Schools, reflected on the PLEASE SEE TORNADOES | 13
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Saturday, March 31, 2012
THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
Gov. Haslam Declares FWBFM Opens For FEMA Flies Over President Obama GL&PS , Others County A Disaster Area Donated Items To Assess Damage Declares Disaster Area Restore All Power
Morning April 28
April 29
1:30 p.m. May 1
May 1
May 2
13
Camp Creek School Reopens
7th Local Victim Dies In Hospital
May 3
May 4
Tornadoes Starts on Page 12 tense moments of April 27 and 28 at a school board meeting a few weeks after the storms. As tornado warnings came over the airwaves the night of April 27, no one was more concerned than Kirk, who worried about the fate of her students, faculty and staff. When it became apparent that severe weather was moving into this county, Kirk went to the Emergency Operations Center that had been established in Greeneville at the offices of the Greene County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. She was joined by David Myers, school system maintenance and facilities director. “We waited all night to see if the school was still there,” Kirk said. A ‘SURREAL’ NIGHT Kirk and Myers expected the worst after the EF-3 tornado roared through the southern area of the county. They reached Camp Creek school while it was still dark. “That night was so surreal, going out in the dark with a spotlight,” Kirk said. “The school was remarkably untouched, and we were blessed by that.” Fortunately, no students or staff living in the storm-affected area were injured. But some lost relatives or were displaced, Kirk told the school board. Principals at schools in the storm-affected
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
An American flag flies as a pile of lumber that made up the frame of the home of Walter and Carolyn Gunter, of 420 Dunham Road, burns in the Horse Creek community. areas “did a terrific job of tracking where our children were, as many were displaced due to the storm,” Kirk said. There were at least 43 “misplaced” students after the tornadoes, including 18 students from Camp Creek Elementary School and 19 students from Chuckey Elementary School, which serves the Horse Creek area. Counseling services
were provided for students in schools located in storm-affected areas, Kirk said. IN HORSE CREEK The Horse Creek Community was battered by the strongest of the five tornadoes to lash Greene County. Many survivors experienced personal loss. At least 41 Horse Creek families lost their homes and most of their posses-
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2011, and roared along a 14-mile track that was 1,000 yards wide. One person died, and many were injured. Church group volunteers affiliated with the AIDNET of Greene County relief-coordinating organization helped rebuild a new home for Georgia Morelock of Cannon Loop Road, whose mobile home blew away in the tornado. “The frame has never
been found,” she said in August. At the time she was interviewed, Morelock was living across the street from the site of her former home, in a camper. Poplar trees on Morelock’s property that came down in the storm were cut at a nearby sawmill and used to build her new house. PLEASE SEE TORNADOES| 14
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sions to the tornado. Nola Davis, a widow who lives on Fishpond Road, moved into a new home in August 2011. The one she lived in until the night the tornado struck was carried away by winds up to 160 mph. “I’m thrilled to be alive, and I thank God every day that I was spared,” Davis said last August. The Horse Creek tornado hit early on April 28,
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
U.S. Sen. Corker Visits Damaged Areas
FEMA/Red Cross Centers Open
May 5
May 6
NWS Confirms 4th Tornado In Houston Valley: EF-0
NWS Confirms 5th Tornado Near Exit 23: EF-0
May 12
U.S. Sen. Alexander Tours Damaged Areas
Late May
June 1
Tornadoes Starts on Page 13 SURVIVAL STORIES In the days just after the storm, Horse Creek residents had harrowing stories fresh in their minds. Berlin and Carolyn Gunter, of 420 Dunham Road, lived near the one Horse Creek resident who died in the tornado — Shirley McKinney, of Morgan Loop Lane, off Dunham Road. The Gunters said they easily could have been casualties, as well. Their brick home was left in shambles by the storm, which also destroyed five of their barns and three vehicles. Berlin Gunter said that he and his wife went to bed the night of April 27 after the first storms passed through northern Greene County. Gunter said they got back up after midnight and turned on the television in the living room to check on the weather. Carolyn Gunter was alarmed by what she heard and called to her husband to come take a look at it, he said. Before Berlin Gunter could get dressed, the sheet rock from the ceiling in his bedroom began to cave in. He raised his arm to fend it off, suffering a scratch on his wrist and a bump on his head, but saving himself from more serious injury. Ceiling beams bent but did not give way, preventing the roof from crashing into the bedroom on top of him. Gunter found his wife on the floor of the hallway outside the bedroom with a deep cut on her leg. Together they struggled out of the house, just before part of it collapsed. When they mustered the courage to go back into the section that was still standing, Berlin Gunter said the couple found both their beds piled high with bricks that probably would have killed them. They spent the rest of the night in the home of an across-the-road neighbor. “I feel like the Lord was watching over us,” Berlin Gunter said. Caroly n Gunter agreed. “I hope I never have to go through something like this again,” she said. “But if I do have to go through it again, I know there will be one person with me, and that’s the Lord ... He’s with me all the time.”
SUN PHOTO BY BOB HURLEY
Kay Blankenship Vanover, of Sunnydale Road, the woman at left with the cast on her leg, lost her crutches in the tornadoes along with her home, which the storms demolished. “It’s only stuff,” she said as she looked over the ruins.
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
This house on Rambo Road was destroyed the night of April 27, 2011, by the powerful tornado that hit Camp Creek. PROPELLED OUT OF HOME Not far away on Eads Lane, a reporter found Hubert and Tammy Hicks checking the rubble that had been their wooden home a few days earlier. They were searching to see what could be saved. Hubert Hicks smiled as he recalled how he and his wife had survived. The couple was sound
asleep in bed when the tornado hit their home. Hicks did not realize anything had happened to their house until he found himself on the ground in a grassy field more than 200 yards away. He said he had no awareness of being propelled out of his bedroom and through the air for hundreds of yards. “I didn’t know I was even out of the bed till I
hit the ground,” he said. When he found himself on the grass, Hicks continued, he got as low as he could and held onto whatever was close at hand. In a flash of lightning, Hicks caught a quick glimpse of Tammy, who was on the ground near him but being pushed away by the strong wind. He let go of what he
was holding on to, and reached out and grabbed her, pulling her close to him. They clung to each other for what he estimated was 20 to 30 seconds, until the tornado moved eastward and calm returned. The couple had only minor scratches, but found that their house had been moved from its foundation about two feet
and nearly flattened. “I tell you, I never want to hear that noise again,” Hubert Hicks said, adding that he and Tammy were grateful to have escaped the tornado with their lives, and without serious injury. “We’ve got it bad,” Tammy Hicks said, “but others have got it worse
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Saturday, March 31, 2012
THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
AIDNET Begins Recovery Efforts
Mt. Tabor Church Has Open House
Alison Krauss Performs Tornado Benefit At NPAC
AIDNET Stops Accepting Applications
Memorial Will Be Dedicated In Camp Creek
June 14
August 21
October 6
January 31
April 28
Tornadoes
been trying to reach her grandfather since midnight. Early on the morning of April 28, her uncle, Mike Richesin, accompanied rescue personnel to the home on Rambo Road. Shanna was told the house had been leveled and her grandfather’s cell phone was found in the yard, ringing as they were still trying to call him. Others were arriving at the same time, anxious for news of their family members. “We don’t have stuff like this here. This is something you see on TV,” Shanna said. “We think we’re protected because we’ve got mountains here — at least that’s been a long-standing myth.”
Starts on Page 14 because of their family members ... that they’ll never get back.” Hubert Hicks said the family had “lost everything.” “But you just have to pick up and go on again ... You just have to start over,” he said. DUCKTOWN HIT, TOO Meanwhile, miles away at Ducktown, in northeastern Greene County, the first of the tornadoes to strike the county had touched down at approximately 9:30 with maximum winds of 120 mph. While it was the smallest of the three twisters to hit the county that night, it was big enough to destroy dairy farmer Norman Dickerson’s house, his five barns, and most of his equipment. He himself escaped injury. “Everything that I’ve ever worked for is gone,” he told Greeneville Sun Columnist Bob Hurley on April 29 as the two men looked over the rubble. Still, Dickerson was already thinking about how he could get up and running again. “We’ve got a long ways to go,” he said, “but we’ve got to try to get this boat back in the water.” BROADCAST TOWER DOWN Other reports coming in the morning of April 28 said that the WIKQFM transmitter building of Radio Greeneville, located on Fishpond Road in Horse Creek,
15
VOLUNTEERS STEP UP By the morning of April Mennonite volunteers from Tennessee, Virginia and Maryland worked quickly to put a new roof on Mt. Tabor 28, volunteers with the Church on April 30, 2011. Orebank and Tusculum Volunteer Fire Departwas heavily damaged, in the former Andrew Valero service station April 28 that as many as ments were among those and the station’s broad- Johnson Building shel- at the corner of Jones 200 volunteers worked who had been to the cast tower was on the ter in Greeneville. Bridge Road and Ten- through the night. tornado scene, left and ground. The tower was The American Red nessee Rt. 107 was filled returned. replaced several months Cross Disaster Shelter at with cars and emergency LOVED ONES LOST “This is the worst I’ve later. Asbury United Method- vehicles the morning of Among those waiting ever seen — there’s trees, Roads where exten- ist Church in Greeneville April 28, as first respond- to hear about a loved lines, sheet metal and sive storm damage was also was open. ers from throughout the one were a mother and tin laying around everyreported included RickOthers stayed in emer- area arrived to assist. daughter, Margie and where,” said Nick Combs, er Road, Bishop Loop, gency shelters set up at They included the Shanna Richesin. an 11-year veteran of the Tabor Road, Rambo West Greene High School Greene County Sheriff’s They were concerned Orebank Volunteer Fire Road, Dunham Road, and at First Baptist Department, the Tennes- about Shanna’s “papaw,” Department. Morgan Branch Lane, Church in Baileyton. see Highway Patrol, the J.L. Richesin of Rambo Meanwhile, the comthe Morgan Creek area For the most part, Greeneville Emergency Road, who was confirmed munity pulled together and the Greystone area. Greeneville itself & Rescue Squad, the a short time later to have and neighbors began “If you don’t have any escaped the destruction Greene County Chap- died in the Camp Creek helping neighbors. business there, stay out that struck some other ter of the American Red tornado. Supplies, food and of the area,” sheriff’s sections of the county. Cross, and volunteer fire About 7:30 a.m., Shan- clothing were distributDeputy David Beverly Spot flooding was report- departments. na knew it didn’t “look ed at the Free Will Bapsaid. ed, and police were kept Sheriff Steve Burns good,” and her fears were tist Family Ministries’ At one point on the night busy answering activat- had arrived right after realized a few minutes Jackson-Tolle Learning of April 27, there were 56 ed alarms. the tornadoes struck. He later. PLEASE SEE TORNADOES | 16 adults and 16 children The parking lot of the said on the morning of Shanna Richesin had SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION Saturday, March 31, 2012
Tornadoes Starts on Page 15 Center gymnasium for weeks after the tornado. The campus of Free Will Baptist Family Ministries and the grounds of Camp Creek Elementary School also served as the official site for the disaster relief center for Camp Creek and Horse Creek. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other help agencies set up shop May 6n the Camp Creek Elementary School gym. “The disaster is far from being over. We still have a long way to go with the long-term recovery efforts,” Brown said at a community meeting in early May. He said at the time that at least 86 homes and mobile homes in Greene County were destroyed, and another 33 sustained serious damage, not including farm buildings. ANOTHER FAMILY’S LOSS Also on the morning of April 28, relatives of Bobby “Gene” Harrison were mourning his loss, and praying for the recovery of his wife, Vera Sue (Susie) Harrison, who was in critical condition in the intensive care unit at Johnson City Medical Center. Only one room remained of the home on a hill that Harrison and his wife shared with their daughter Sheena, her fiancé Bryan Wright, and two small children. The bedroom that remained intact sheltered the couple and the
SUN PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY
Greene County Road Superintendent David Weems picks up downed trees and brush with a log loader on Tabor Road shortly after the tornadoes of April 27-28, 2011. The log loader was donated for use of the Greene County Highway Department by John Deere Power Products following the tornadoes. children from tornadoforce winds as the rest of the house disintegrated. It was nearly 11 p.m. on April 27 when the storm blew through. EARS ‘STARTED POPPING’ “It was probably around 10:55 (p.m.) when my ears started popping. I ran into the [bedroom] here and covered up the kids, and my fiancee cov-
ered up the 4-month-old, and we laid in bed and held on,” Wright said. Wright surveyed the damage the next morning and thought about the loss of Gene Harrison, a well-loved figure in the community. “It’s worse now than it was,” he said. Justin Harris, whose wife, Amanda, is also a daughter of the Harri-
sons, lives several hundred feet down the driveway at 625 Tabor Lane. The Harris’ home was virtually unscathed by the storm. “We were in bed, and Sheena, her sister, called us and said it’s fixing to get bad and if we’re coming up here, we better come,” Harris said. When they were ready to leave a few minutes
later, it was too late, a fact which may have saved the couple’s lives. ‘A HARD WIND’ “By the time I got to the door, it was blowing a hard wind. We couldn’t have done anything,” Harris said. “We just hunkered down in the closet. It only lasted a few minutes and it was over. “I looked up [the driveway] and I noticed everything was gone. The good Lord had His hand on us.” Five minutes after the wind blew up, “it was quiet as a bluebird,” Harris said. But the force of the wind was so strong it had blown grass into his living room through cracks in a deadbolted door.
BITTERSWEET HOMECOMING Nearly two months after the night the tornadoes struck, Susie Harrison rode down the winding roads of the Camp Creek community on the way home. She stopped at the Mt. Tabor cemetery to say goodbye and express love for her late husband, and then went to stay at Amanda Harris’ home. The mother of three children and grandmother of four had been in Johnson City Medical Center and Quillen Rehabilitation Hospital until her bittersweet homecoming. Despite her losses, Harrison was grateful. “I just give all the credPLEASE SEE TORNADOES | 17
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
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SUN PHOTO BY O.J. EARLY
Tornado survivor Susie Harrison, seated in a wheelchair, made her first trip back home to the Camp Creek community on June 24, 2011. Her husband, Gene, was killed in the Camp Creek tornado of April 27 and she had been hospitalized until that time. She was greeted by members of her family and close friends at the home of one of her daughters, only a short distance from the site where her own home once stood. From left, are: Dee Dee Banks, holding Emma Wright; Kristi Reagan, holding Levi Reagan; Melanie Foreman; Susie Harrison; Amanda (Mandy) Harris; Sheena Wright; Shianne Reagan, holding Noah Wright; in the center is Garrett Morgan.
Tornadoes Starts on Page 16 it to God,” Harrison said. “They didn’t expect me to live. I didn’t know anything until about three or four weeks after I was up there [the Johnson City Medical Center.]” Harrison remembers little of the tornado that claimed the life of her husband and demolished her home. She suffered cracked ribs, a punctured lung, bruising on her brain and a deep leg cut. She underwent two hip surgeries, along with extensive therapy at the hospital. “People tell you I’m strong, but God brought me through it because whatever happened to me — I don’t know — He just brought me through it,” said Harrison, who has since returned to work at her job at Walters State Community College, and lives in a rebuilt home on the site of the one that was destroyed. Harrison and her late husband, along with tornado victims Marty and Brenda Myers, were members of the congregation of Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church on Tabor Road. The church, within eyeshot of the victims’ homes, lost its steeple and part of the roof, along with a front porch. The interior was largely intact.
The pastor, Dr. Joseph Miller, was at the damaged church on April 28 planning Sunday services. “What we’re going to do Sunday is put together a service of grief and mourning, and we will talk about the grace of God that we’re still here,” Miller said. “We’ll try to have it here. The only thing that’s missing here is the benches and roof and porch,” he said. The renovated church officially reopened in August. WEATHER TURNED QUICKLY On April 28, nearby Rambo Road in the Camp Creek area resembled a war zone. Branches and power lines were strewn everywhere, and debris was lodged in fences and trees. The metal roof of a mobile home was wrapped around a tree just down the road from a salvaging effort being conducted by the family of Jeremy Weems. Weems, his wife, Cecilia, and their two children lived for 14 years in the double-wide mobile home at 936 Rambo Road. There wasn’t anything left on the morning of April 28 other than windblown, scattered possessions. Weems said the weather turned bad quickly the night of April 27, and the decision to wake his children and drive to his
sister-in-law’s home on Keller Road may have been a lifesaving one. “We were watching the weather [on TV], and we left this place 30 minutes before this struck,” he said. “By the time we got there, my father-in-law called and said everything was gone.”
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MEMORIAL SERVICE PLANNED Nearly one year later, the progress is apparent. Many of the tornado survivors have rebuilt or moved on. But the victims are not forgotten. A memorial service planned for Saturday, April 28, in Camp Creek, will honor the memories of the seven people who died in Greene County and two others from Washington County who died of injuries afterward. VICTIMS LISTED Tornado victims in Greene County include Richesin, of 295 Rambo Road; Marty and Brenda Myers, both of 215 Rambo Road; Harrison, of 625 Tabor Road; Bessie Lynn Rice, of 867 Ricker Road; Jeffrey McGill, of 867 Ricker Road; and McKinney, of 105 Morgan Branch Lane, Chuckey, in the Horse Creek community. Douglas Penley, of Guy Brown Road, Chuckey, also died as severe weather destroyed his home just over the Washington County line.
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
19
Many ‘Neighbors’ Put The ‘Volunteer’ In Tennessee Joe Byrd, the assistant sports editor of The Greeneville Sun, became a volunteer and went to work in the tornado-damaged areas on Saturday, May 1. This report is his first-hand experience and impressions from that day.
BY JOE BYRD ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
Many of us have heard the words “utter devastation,” but until Saturday I don’t know that I grasped what the words really mean. I know I’d never seen it. No words, no pictures, no second-hand accounts can truly give justice to what the scene is like at Camp Creek. While in the Navy, I rode out three different hurricanes. I’ve seen their destructive force; seen buildings toppled; seen trees uprooted; seen what’s left of sailboats sitting in the middle of a highway. None of that compared with what it looks like right here in Greene County, made worse by the fact that those who have lost everything are friends, family and neighbors. While Wednesday’s tornadoes that struck our area will go down as the worst natural disaster in Greene County history, I truly hope that, once the healing begins, to borrow a phrase from former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, it will go down as our “finest hour.” From Houston Valley to Horse Creek, Greene Countians have turned out by the hundreds to help their neighbors. This isn’t other parts of
JOE BYRD the country. We aren’t sitting around waiting to see what the federal government is going to do. Church groups, civic organizations, high school sports teams, individuals, you name it — Greene County seems to be doing whatever is needed to take care of its own. The past few days, local residents have put the Volunteer in Tennessee. Whether it’s showing up with a chainsaw to clear someone’s driveway or helping patch a roof; maybe it’s picking up debris or cooking meals; it could be the simple act of donating items to help rebuild people’s lives or handing out cold water to those doing the heavy lifting, or just being there to provide a shoulder to lean on — everything Greene Countians have done and continue to do is appreciated by those in the path of the tornado. The destruction that remains from the path of the tornado is terrible, although “terrible” isn’t a strong enough word.
Gigantic trees, maybe three feet in diameter, are uprooted or snapped like toothpicks. Where homes and barns stood Wednesday afternoon, now there is nothing. Insulation from buildings that were destroyed clings to trees like pink snow. Household items such as light fixtures and kitchen utensils are scattered and twisted like pretzels. Family photos are strewn about. Smashed trucks sit beside what’s left of campers. Tin from roofs litters miles of countryside. Dead wildlife and domestic animals create a morbid scene. If you stand near the intersection of Camp Creek Road and Ricker Road, it’s easy to see the exact path of the storm. Looking forward and back, the destruction is unmistakable. Looking left and right, it’s really no more disturbed than what you’d see as a result of an average spring thunder burst. By Saturday morning, the clouds had all gone, but the people remained, joined by their neighbors from near and far eager to do whatever they could to lend aid. The sound of the chainsaws and hammers working would briefly be drowned out by government helicopters flying over to assess the damage or by ATVs cruising up and down the road with drivers handing out drinks. But the most common sound was someone asking a person they didn’t even know, “Is there anything I can do to help? ”
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THE GREENEVILLE SUN BENCHMARKS EDITION
Saturday, March 31, 2012
9
New Owner Brings New Life To Landmark Capitol Theatre BY VELMA SOUTHERLAND LIVING EDITOR
Lights are on at the Capitol Theatre, and business is buzzing — a very different scenario from just one year ago. In June 2011, Walter T. “Tom” Van Allen of Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., and Parrottsville, purchased the Main Street landmark from Hervie Hartman Jr. and announced plans to open Grace’s Greeneville Auction. Van Allen decided on the new line of business for the one-time movie house because that is his area of expertise and he felt an auction house would “fit the economy” at the time. Van Allen opened the Capitol for his first sale at the end of September 2011. On Feb. 2, Main Street: Greeneville held a reception at the Capitol during the monthly auction to welcome the newest Main Street member. Van Allen has scheduled the theater’s first musical event under his ownership. On March 31, the Sock Hops of Atlanta, will bring music to the Capitol stage for the first time since the Chuck Wagon Gang performed there on Friday, Oct. 9, 2009. The Sock Hops specialize in four-part harmony and include favorites from the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s in their repertoire, the group’s website states.
Greeneville, Inc., had built restrooms for the playhouse. As a nonprofit organization, Little Theatre had been able to work out a deal with Greene County Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Co. that owned the former jewelry store building. The name of Van Allen’s son, Travis, was included on the deeds. Van Allen explained that his son was just 18 and graduating from high school in Florida the day after the deeds were signed. Once Van Allen began to get serious about getting the theater cleaned up and ready for busiSUN FILE PHOTO BY PHIL GENTRY ness, he imported fellow Main Street’s Capitol Theatre re-opened as an auction Floridian Tom Digges as
house in September 2011 under the guidance of its new owner, Tom Van Allen, of Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., and Parrottsville. The Capitol is the home of Grace’s Greeneville Auctions, named in honor of Van Allen’s mother. Manager Tom Digges reported that two other musical events are scheduled. On April 20, the Owens Brothers will play the Capitol, and Longshot is scheduled for May 19. In addition to music, the Capitol has opened itself as a wedding venue, with its first one being on New Year’s Eve. The Capitol management is working with a wedding planning service to bring the theater to the attention of bridal couples. Digges indicated that he welcomes other possible uses for the space, if
anyone wants to contact him with an idea. On the auction side, Bill Brown continues as auctioneer, and “business is improving with every auction,” Digges said. He is seeing “more registered voters” each month. To access the items for auction at Grace’s Greeneville Auction, visit www.bidopia.com.
the manager of his auc- junction with Jamestion business. Ben Studio & Gallery Art Center. Soon after, BUILDING’S HISTORY he brought three wellAt the time Van Allen known gospel groups to purchased the Art-Deco the stage. theater, it had been on However, f inancial the market for about a trouble plagued Hartyear, having been listed man as it had the thewith Warner Realty since ater’s former owner, June 2010. Little Theatre of Hartman, who is now Greeneville, which lost deceased, had owned the the building to foreclobuilding since he sub- sure in June 2008 when mitted a sealed bid for the organization was $194,500 in April 2009 approximately two years when it was being sold in arrears in mortgage by the U.S. Department payments. of Agriculture Rural Prior to Little Theatre’s Development Agency. ownership, the building Hartman closed on the had been a movie theproperty in August 2009 ater for approximately 50 and almost immediate- years, having opened in ly opened the building the 1930s, the heyday of for an art show in con- the movie industry.
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Honors, Recognition Come To Individuals And Organizations BY VELMA SOUTHERLAND LIVING EDITOR
Numerous local people and organizations received a variety of honors and awards during 2011. Brenda Parrish-Dickmann was presented the Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds award on June 23 during the club’s annual banquet, held at Link Hills Country Club. The presentation was made by Paige Mengel, Tennessee District Exchange Clubs’ past president. Parrish-Dickmann was nominated for decades of significant community service that began at least as early as 1974 and includes extensive involvement and leadership with Holston United Methodist Home for Children, the United Way of Greene County for 25 years, Greeneville Junior Achievement, and Youth Builders of Greeneville Inc. Carmen Ricker and Lowell Gregg were elected to Tennessee’s highest governing positions in the Order of the Eastern Star as Worthy Grand Matron and Worthy Grand Patron on April 19, 2011. Ricker, Grand Worthy Matron, is a member of the Greeneville Chapter No. 223. Gregg, Grand Worthy Patron, is a member of Mosheim Chapter No. 292. Their service will conclude with Grand Chapter meeting to be held April 15-18 at the MeadowView Convention Center in Kingsport. Youth Builders of Greeneville, Inc., celebrated its 65th anniversary in 2011. It was founded in 1946 with the objective of promoting the welfare of children and youth in home, school, church and community and contributing needful service to the community as a whole. The club published a book in commemoration of the milestone. Ellen “Nelly” VanVactor is the earliest-born African-American woman to have a Tennessee Historical Commission marker dedicated to her life and heritage. A marker signifying her achievement is now in front of the Greeneville-Greene County Public Library. The dedication ceremony took place Sept. 15 in the Big Spring Room of the library. Born a slave in 1780, Nelly VanVactor first came to Greeneville in
1818 and eventually owned six lots inside the town limits, a remarkable feat made more significant by the fact that it was decades before Emancipation. The extensive research and advocacy effort that resulted in the placement of the Historical Commission marker was led by Stevie Hughes. Alex S. Jones, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and native of Greeneville, was among 179 of the nation’s most influential artists, scientists, scholars, authors, and institutional leaders inducted into the American Academy of Arts
and Sciences on Oct. 1. Jones is also a widely known author and is the director of the Joan Shorenstein Center on the Press, Politics and Public Policy at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, and the Laurence M. Lombard Lecturer in the Press and Public Policy at the Kennedy School. He is a co-owner and a former editor of The Greeneville Sun, and a director of the newspaper’s parent company, Jones Media, Inc. The induction came during a ceremony at Harvard University.
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ALISA HOWARD, D.V.M.
Providing Care for Small Animals
Appointments Preferred Phone (423) 639-9594 Fax (423) 639-9392
Greene County Veterinary Medical Center Your Full-Service Veterinarian Hospital Just Ask Your Neighbor!
Dr. Doug Woolsey Dr. Justin Woolsey Dr. Tracie Neas
2011 - 2012
24 Hour Client Emergency Service
639-1621 • 639-4881 247 Baileyton Road, Greeneville, TN
FUNERAL
& CREMATION SERVICE
Taking great pride in serving you and your loved ones with compassion respect and dignity
www.jeffersmortuary.com
(423) 639-2141