January 11, 2010

Page 1

The Mountain Press ■ Sevier County’s Daily Newspaper ■ Vol. 26, No. 11 ■ January 11, 2010 ■ www.themountainpress.com ■ 50 Cents

Monday

Relief from weather in sight

INSIDE

By BOB MAYES Managing Editor

5Man faces 5 assault charges

It appears the weather gods will throw a little more frozen precipitation at Sevier County before finally easing off its icy grip. In the meantime, the county is far from in the clear concerning icy roadways. County Roads Superintendent Jonas Smelcer said all of the major thoroughfares were in

have steep inclines. We will be “There are still quite a few subdivisions that have icy spots. working around the clock until we get all the roads clear.” We are trying to address the road that have steep inclines. We It could be Wednesday before will be working around the clock until we get all the roads the weather warms up significantly enough to ease the burden clear.” on the road crews. — County Roads Superintendent Jonas Smelcer David Gaffin, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Morristown, said temps should good shape, but at least one “There are still quite a few sub- be warmer today, inching up into area — Grassy Branch Loop — divisions that have icy spots,” he the mid to upper 30s, but tonight near Pittman Center, had four said Sunday afternoon. “We are See WEATHER, Page A4 inches of snow still on the road. trying to address the road that

Pigeon Forge police allege man attacked woman with knife

Planners to revisit zoning request

Local, Page A5

5A cause with bite

Meeting set for Tuesday, 5:30 p.m.

Activists, officials take on puppy mills

By DEREK HODGES Staff Writer

NATION, Page A9

SEYMOUR — Elayne Kohan, an accountant for 20 years, knows a thing or two about starting and managing a business. So when she heard that the Seymour Public Library hosts speakers on various topics each month, she was eager to share her knowledge with aspiring entrepreneurs. “A lot of people call me with questions,” said Kohan, owner of Accurate Business Services in Knoxville. Suzette Tack, a South Knoxville resident who visits the Seymour library often for her job search, was looking forward to Kohan’s seminar at the library Saturday afternoon. “I’m here because I can’t find a job,” Tack said. “I moved here a year and a half ago from Michigan, where the economy has collapsed. I have a paralegal degree and a business degree, but I’ve worked at two

SEVIERVILLE — County planning officials are set to give a second look to a rezoning request they previously declined for a Wears Valley property when they meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the courthouse. Developer Ron Ogle has asked that the petition be put onto the group’s agenda again after it opted not to approve changing the lot at the intersection of Wears Valley and Valley View roads from A-1 (agricultural) to C-2 (general commercial). Ogle believes the site meets all the requirements and should be approved. “I’m not encroaching on anyone whatsoever,” Ogle told The Mountain Press late last week. “(County Planner) Jeff Ownby knows that will meet all the requirements. If they turn it down, I’m going to sue.” Ogle maintains Commissioner Ben Clabo has “already made up his mind that he doesn’t want that land developed.” Clabo, who represents the area both on the County and Planning commissions, came out as the main opponent to Ogle’s plan the first time it came up a few months ago. At the time, Clabo and others worried that work on the site, particularly any earth moving that might be done to build the property up to street level, could impede the flow of flood-prone Cove Creek. Without a site plan to show if he planned to do that sort of work, Ogle got a consensus thumbs-down from the commission. Ogle has resubmitted the proposal with a site plan attached this time, saying it’s a move he was encouraged to make by Ownby. He says it shows there won’t be significant dirt work done on the property, and the landscaping and retail business he plans to build there will be outside the flood hazard area. “There’s nothing there on that site plan that will impede the flow of the water there,” Ogle said. “I’m just a fellow trying to use the property he owns.” The site plan calls for a gazebo and a small walking path, with additional parking for those. Ogle said that move is a nod to

See SPEAKER, Page A4

See PLANNERS, Page A4

Sport

Clean up your act

Ellen Brown/The Mountain Press

Governor delivers message to UT athletic department Page A8

Weather Today Sunny

Nine-year-old Noah Sawyer of Chattanooga, left, and 8-year-old Devin Sawyer of Abingdon, Va., concentrate on dealing cards at Saturday’s Pokemon City Championship Tournament held in Sevierville.

It’s all in the cards Pokemon devotees play in city tournament By ELLEN BROWN Staff Writer

High: 36°

Tonight Snow showers Low: 23° DETAILS, Page A6

Obituaries Shelby Howell, 65 John Kerr, 87 Jerry Rolen, 69 Elizabeth Kuncitis, 53 Oris Waters Sr., 94 DETAILS, Page A4

Index Local & State . A1-A4,A6 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . A3 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . A7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . A8 Business . . . . . . . . . . . A2 Advice . . . . . . . . . . . A14 Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . A14 Classifieds . . . . . A12,A13 Nation . . . . . . . . . . A5,A9 World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xx

SEVIERVILLE — Fanatics from throughout the Southeast didn’t let Saturday’s ice and snow keep them from the Pokemon City Championship Tournament, held at First United Methodist Church. Pokemon is a media franchise published and owned by Nintendo. First created by Japanese video game designer Satoshi Tajiri in 1996, it has since spawned into anime, manga, trading cards, toys, books and See POKEMON, Page A4

Ellen Brown/The Mountain Press

Tom Wise of Asheville, N.C., credits his daughter for getting him into Pokemon trading cards.

Seymour speaker hopes to open doors Knoxville businesswoman shares tips at library seminar By ELLEN BROWN Staff Writer

Note to readers Because of icy road conditions in some parts of the county, The Mountain Press had an early deadline Sunday. Some late-breaking stores may have been left out.

Ellen Brown/The Mountain Press

Elayne Kohan, owner of Accurate Business Services in Knoxville, presents a seminar on starting a business at the Seymour Public Library Saturday afternoon.

A2 â—† Business

The Mountain Press â—† Monday, January 11, 2010

Make financial resolutions for the coming year

Program aims to stop fraud in farming From Submitted Reports

From Submitted Reports

USDA is partnering with the Internal Revenue Service to reduce fraud in farm programs and streamlining payment limits for family farmers. The actions are intended to strengthen the USDA farm safety net programs and help the agricultural industry to meet requirements included in the 2008 Farm Bill. USDA has finalized agreement with IRS to establish an electronic information exchange process for verifying compliance with provisions for programs administered by Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service. Payments will not be issued to producers whose adjusted gross income exceeds certain limits: $500,000 nonfarm average for commodity and disaster programs; $750,000 farm average for direct payments; and $1 million for conservation programs. The process reviews data from tax returns, performs calculations, and compares these values to the limitations from the 2008 Farm Bill. No actual tax data will be included in the report that IRS sends to USDA. Meanwhile, beginning with the 2010 program year, USDA has amended the rules that govern the requirements to be “actively engaged� in farming. These rules apply to eligibility for payments under programs administered by the FSA.

At the beginning of each new year, many people make a list of resolutions to keep in the coming months, such as losing weight or learning a new skill. As you make your list, don’t forget to consider wise financial goals for the year ahead. The Tennessee Society of CPAs suggests you adopt these smart resolutions. Save More It sounds simple but people often forget or make excuses that prevent them from setting aside more money for the long term. That’s why it’s a good idea to make the process automatic. One way to do that is have your bank deposit a certain amount of your payroll check or checking account balance into a savings account each month. Even if you start by setting aside a very small amount, you’ll be surprised at how quickly it adds up. And no matter what your age, don’t forget that it’s never too early to begin saving for retirement. Watch Your Spending This is another area where people have great intentions that often don’t get carried out. One way to motivate yourself to take this goal more seriously is to keep a list of everything you spend each month. Categorize the items in areas such as groceries, restaurant meals and takeout, entertainment, commuting and gasoline — or whatever categories apply. Once again you may be surprised this time at how much you are spending in certain areas. Are your takeout expenses much higher than you thought? Are you spending a lot on gas when public transportation could be a cheaper option? When you set down your outlays on paper, you may find yourself much more motivated to change your habits. Keep a Budget Once you write down your expenses, you can use them as part of a monthly budget. A budget is an excellent tool for making sense of your financial life and identifying where change is needed. Add up what you receive in your pay checks each month and any other income, then deduct your regular expenses, such as rental or mortgage payments, utilities, groceries and savings. You can use what’s left for restaurants and entertainment, travel or other discretionary purchases. Make Your Own Financial Statement How much are you worth? The beginning of the year is a good time to find out, since understanding where you stand financially can help you make decisions about your future. The process is simple: Add up the value of what you own, including the equity you have in your home or any other property and the amount in your savings, investment or retirement accounts. Then calculate your debts, including your total outstanding mortgage balance, auto loans, student loans and credit card balances. If your assets are greater than your debts, then the excess amount is your net worth. If your debts add up to more than your assets, it’s a good idea to give some thought to your debt management plan and your spending habits. Is it time to make some revisions in how you manage your money? If the answer is yes, consider new steps to take during the coming year.

Jornd joins Thomas Group Submitted reports SEVIERVILLE — Tony Jornd has joined The Thomas Group. “He is here to help expand our digital printing division and copy center along with signs and banners,�said Andrew Byrd, president of the business. “Due to continued growth of Jornd The Thomas Group, our management team felt the need to bring in additional personnel with indepth knowledge in the field of printing.� Jornd was formerly with Davis Print Group/Reliable Printing. “This move will aid in The Thomas Group servicing our customers and clients more effectively,� Byrd said. Jornd may be reached at 453-3978, ext. 26, or by e-mail to tony@thomasgrouponline.com.

Submitted

Pampered Pooches is a new business located just past 284 Red Bud Lane in Sevierville.

Pampered Pooches to offer services beyond grooming From Submitted Reports SEVIERVILLE — Mike and Ashley Broadwell have turned their love of animals into a business venture in their own backyard facility. Their pet salon, Pampered Pooches, opened Jan. 4. The salon is located on Red Bud Lane off of Highway 411 near New Center. In addition to basic grooming services, the couple will offer some different pet services. Among those are pet facials, mud baths, and nail painting as well as gourmet dog treats.

The couple also offers boarding. “We will have walk time, play time and a safe and relaxing place to sleep,� Mike Broadwell said. “Even in this economy, people still want to take care of their pets. We look forward to being a part of that process as well as being local Sevier County business owners.� To schedule a grooming appointment or to find out about additional services and pricing call 908-2007. The salon is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Extended evening hours are also be available upon request.

Mellow Mushroom pizzeria to open in April; will feature diverse menu From Submitted Reports PIGEON FORGE — A pizzeria offering a diverse menu in a hip environment is coming to the Smoky Mountains in April. Local restaurateur Tom Horne and developer Darby Campbell are planning to open a Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers. Architectural and design plans are in the final stages to convert the existing Flying Horse Grill to a Mellow Mushroom restaurant. With more than 100 locations, primarily in the Southeast, Mellow

Mushroom started in 1974. Three college students founded the restaurant in Atlanta. The concept features stone-baked pizza. The dough is made with pure spring water and molasses instead of tap water and sugar. Other options include hoagies, calzones, salads and vegetarian dishes. Mellow Mushroom will feature over 24 beers on tap, many of which are regional brews. “We are proud to bring the best pizza in the country to the Smoky Mountains. We know you will love it. Our restaurant will have its

the

Check Out The Mountain Press

ND G A N GR ENI OP

ENJOY LIFE-ENJOY THAI FOOD

Lunch Mon - Sat, 11am - 3pm MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE. exp. 02/08/10

Dinner Mon - Thurs, 3pm - 10pm Fri & Sat, 3pm - 11pm Sun, 12pm - 10pm

CRICK CENTER

0ARKWAY 3UITE s 3EVIERVILLE 4.

865-365-1350 s www.mythaipalace.com

#LINT S ""1 #OUNTRY #OOKIN Ronnie Spann from Country Tonight

Appearing Tuesday,January 12 at 6 pm 3EE 9OU 4HERE

!PPEARING 4UESDAY -ARCH TH AT PM !PPEARING 4UESDAY -ARCH ST AT PM

Catfish Special $10.99 #ATFISH 3PECIAL Includes 2 Sides

.OW 3ERVING Now Serving BREAKFAST Breakfast: 3AT 3UN Sat. & Sun. 8am to 11am AM TO AM

Includes 2 Sides INCLUDES SIDES CHEESE GRITS AVAILABLE .EWPORT (WY s 3EVIERVILLE .EWPORT (WY s 3EVIERVILLE Mon. - Wed. 11am &%

$ - 8pm '$ /

-'&(* -. ," (,"## Thurs., MI PAST 3EVIER #O (IGH 3CHOOL ON , Fri. & Sat. * 11am

$ - 9pm '$ !+() (" MI PAST 3EVIER #O (IGH 3CHOOL ON , +% . 11am

$ - 3pm '$ $ " ' )* ," ( & " ! !&&# &% Sunday

865-453-5150

own unique flair while maintaining a fun, energetic and trendy atmosphere that distinguishes Mellow Mushroom from the typical pizza baker,� said Horne. Mellow Mushroom will be located at 2485 Parkway. To find out more visit www.mellowmushroom.

Local â—† A3

Monday, January 11, 2010 â—† The Mountain Press

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Editor’s Note: The community calendar is printed as space permits. Only noncommercial, public events held in Sevier County will be considered. They are listed by date. To place an item phone 4280748, ext. 214, or e-mail to editor@themountainpress. com. Items may be faxed to 453-4913.

Program by Bobby Fields of Alzheimer’s Association. 428-2445, ext. 107.

GateKeepers

GateKeepers men’s Bible study, 6:30 p.m. 1328 Old Newport Highway, Sevierville. 908-0591.

Angel Food

Angel Food orders: n 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gum Stand Baptist Church, 3031 Veterans Blvd., Pigeon Forge. 429-2508. n 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., First Smoky Mountain Church of the Nazarene, 2652 Upper Middle Creek Road. 9081245. n 6 to 7:30 p.m. Basic Life Ministries, formerly The Father’s House, 139 Bruce Street. 286-9784 or 230-1526.

Monday, Jan. 11 GateKeepers

GateKeepers men’s community Bible study, 6:30 p.m., 2445 Scenic Mt. Drive, Sevierville. (865) 310-7831.

Women’s Bible Study

Garlands of Grace women’s Bible study: n 10 a.m. Seymour Heights Christian Church (enter last door on right), Chapman at Boyds Creek Highway. n 1 p.m., Gatlinburg Inn

Wednesday, Jan. 13 Garden Club

Sevierville Garden Club will meet at noon at Sevier Senior Center. Lunch served. Tom Leonard, manager of Sevier Solid Waste Inc., to speak on recycling. Board meeting at 11.

Cancer Support Group

Smoky Mountain Cancer Support Group meets at Senior Center. Supper 6 p.m., program 6:45 by Barbara Edwards on stress. 428-5834 or 654-9280.

DAR

Angel Food

DAR Spencer Clack Chapter meets 7 p.m., Sevier County Library. Program on history of silver by Carrie Murphy.

Angel Food

Angel Food orders: n 2 to 5 p.m. Gum Stand Baptist Church, 3031 Veterans Blvd., Pigeon Forge. 429-2508. n 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., First Smoky Mountain Church of the Nazarene, 2652 Upper Middle Creek Road. 9081245. n 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., River Of Life Outreach, 110 Simmons Road, Seymour. 679-6796.

Middle Creek UMC

Worship services at 6:30 p.m. at Middle Creek United Methodist Church, 1828 Middle Creek Road, Pigeon Forge. 216-2066.

Sevierville Story Time

Preschool story time 10:30 a.m., Sevier County Main Library. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday guest readers. 453-3532.

Thursday, Jan. 14 Women’s Bible Study

Garlands of Grace women’s Bible study: n 9 a.m., Pigeon Forge UMC n 2 p.m., Blue Mountain Mist B&B, Pullen Road, Sevierville n 6:30 p.m., Sevierville UMC, Conference Room

Gym Closing

Sevierville Community Center gym closed Jan. 11-13 for maintenance. 453-5441.

Seymour Story Time

Preschool story time 11 a.m., Seymour Library. Guest readers for Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. 573-0728.

Community Choir

Tuesday, Jan. 12 S.I.T.

Angel Food Orders n 5 to 6:30 p.m., River Of Life Outreach, 110 Simmons Road, Seymour. 679-6796.

Seniors In Touch (S.I.T.) meets 6 to 7:30 p.m. at MountainBrook Village, 700 Markhill Drive, Sevierville. 428-2445.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Community Choir will practice 6-8 p.m. today and Friday in ConnerShort Building, Walters State Community College. Interested singers welcome.

Hot Meals

Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries provides hot meals 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at First United Alzheimer’s Support Alzheimer’s Support group Methodist Church in Sevierville. at MountainBrook Village meets from 5-6 p.m.

TOPS

TOPS weight loss chapter meets at 6 p.m., Parkway Church of God in Sevierville. 755-9517 or 429-3150.

Angel Food

Angel Food orders: n 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gum Stand Baptist Church, 3031 Veterans Blvd., Pigeon Forge. 429-2508. n 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., First Smoky Mountain Church of the Nazarene, 2652 Upper Middle Creek Road. 9081245.

Blood Drives

n 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sevierville Primary School, 1146 Blanton Drive n 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Seymour Middle School, 737 Boyds Creek Highway

Friday, Jan. 15 Lions Club Sale

Sevierville Lions Club indoor charity rummage sale 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. today and Saturday, 122 Bruce St., downtown Sevierville. Rescheduled from Jan. 8 and 9. 453-2025.

Angel Food

Angel Food orders: n 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Gum Stand Baptist Church, 3031 Veterans Blvd., Pigeon Forge. 429-2508.

Blood Drive

Medic blood drive 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Seymour Food City.

Garden Club Trip

Sevierville Garden Club will meet at noon in Room 133 of Senior Center for lunch followed by trip to tour composting facility. Nonmembers call 609-8079 for reservations.

Kodak Story Time

Preschool story time 11 a.m., Kodak Library. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday guest reader. 933-0078.

Relay Dinner/Dance

Relay For Life dinner/ dance 6-10:30 p.m. Jan. 30, Sevierville Civic Center. $50 per person. RSVP by Jan. 15; 428-0846. Table sponsorships available. Semi-formal attire. 6549280; 397-5556; 603-1223.

Saturday, Jan. 16 Lions Club Sale

Sevierville Lions Club

indoor charity rummage sale 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, 122 Bruce St., downtown Sevierville. Rescheduled from Jan. 8 and 9. 453-2025.

n 2 p.m. Blue Mountain Mist B&B, Pullen Road, Sevierville n 6:30 p.m. Sevierville UMC, Conference Room, Sevierville

Cove Clothes Closet

Anna Porter Public Library Thursday Theater showing “Julie and Julia,� 6:30 p.m. 436-5588.

Cove Clothes Closet, 3238 Pittman Center Road at Old Richardson Cove Church, open 9-3 Saturdays only. Free clothing. 453-4526.

Monday, Jan. 18 SCHS Banquet

Sevier County High football banquet 6 p.m. at Park Vista, Gatlinburg. $25; players free.

GateKeepers

GateKeepers men’s community Bible study, 6:30 p.m., 2445 Scenic Mt. Drive, Sevierville. (865) 310-7831.

Women’s Bible Study

Garlands of Grace women’s Bible study: n 10 a.m. Seymour Heights Christian Church (enter last door on right), Chapman and Boyds Highway n 1 p.m., Gatlinburg Inn

Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric Surgery Support Group will not meet January and February, will resume meetings at 7 p.m. March 15 at Echota Resort Clubhouse on Highway 66. 453-6841 or 712-3287.

Tuesday, Jan. 19 GateKeepers

ABSOLUTE MARTINI ONE HALF OFF WITH ADULT ENTRÉE.

FREE CORKAGE

THIS OFFER EXCLUDES THE SALAD BAR AS AN ENTRÉE Offer good through January 31, 2010

Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries provides hot meals 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Sevierville.

TOPS

TOPS weight loss chapter meets at 6 p.m., Parkway Church of God in Sevierville. 755-9517 or 429-3150.

ABWA

American Business Women’s Association meets at Holiday Inn, Pigeon Forge. Networking 6 p.m., dinner meeting to follow. Cost of meal is $13. RSVP to 933-4048. www. abwasevier.org.

Submarine Veterans

Smoky Mountain sub vets meet at 6 p.m., Islamorada Restauran. www. SmokyMountainBase.com or 429-0465 or 692-3368. Smoky Mountain Aero Club meets at 7 p.m., Sevierville Community Center. 604-5211 or 428-3663.

DAV/DAVA Meeting

Crewettes

Sevier County Crewettes meets at 7 p.m. at Rescue Squad. 453-3861 or 4538572.

Wednesday, Jan. 20 Middle Creek UMC

Middle Creek United Methodist Church, 1828 Middle Creek Road, Pigeon Forge, worship services 6:30 p.m. 216-2066.

Thursday, Jan. 21 Women’s Bible Study

Garlands of Grace women’s Bible study: n 9 a.m. UMC Pigeon Forge

9g# LZX`ZhhZgÂťh 6;;DG967A: =:6AI= 86G: B:9>86A 8A>C>8

GateKeepers

GateKeepers men’s community Bible study, 6:30 p.m., 2445 Scenic Mt. Drive, Sevierville. (865) 310-7831.

Women’s Bible Study

Garlands of Grace women’s Bible study: n 10 a.m. Seymour Heights Christian Church (last door on right), Chapman Highway n 1 p.m., Gatlinburg Inn, Gatlinburg

Tuesday, Jan. 26 GateKeepers

GateKeepers men’s Bible study, 6:30 p.m. 1328 Old Newport Highway, Sevierville. 908-0591. Second workshop to develop Gatlinburg’s Greenways Master Plan at 5 p.m. in City Hall. 4364990.

Emergency Radio

Republican Party

Sevier County Republican Party meets at 6 p.m. at courthouse. 453-3882 or 368-3833.

Monday, Jan. 25

Gatlinburg Greenways

Aero Club

Sevier County Emergency Radio Service meets at 7:30 p.m., EOC office on Bruce Street. 429-2422 or www. freewebs.com/aresradio. Chapter 94 Disabled American Veterans and Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary meet at Fort Sanders Sevier Senior Center. Potluck dinner 6 p.m. and meeting 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 23 Angel Food

Angel Food pickup: n 8 to 11 a.m. Gum Stand Baptist Church, 3031 Veterans Blvd., Pigeon Forge. 429-2508. n 8 to 10 a.m. First

Wednesday, Jan. 27 Middle Creek UMC

Worship services at 6:30 p.m. at Middle Creek United Methodist Church, 1828 Middle Creek Road, Pigeon Forge. 216-2066.

Thursday, Jan. 28 Hot Meals

Smoky Mountain Area Rescue Ministries provides hot meals 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Sevierville.

TOPS

TOPS weight loss chapter meets at 6 p.m., Parkway Church of God in Sevierville. 755-9517 or 429-3150.

2C<IFÂą7JP $JMOÂą1<I?@MNÂą1@QD@MÂą+@?D><GÂą!@IO@M

(QT VJG GZEGNNGPV ECTG IKXGP VQ QWT RTGEKQWU /QVJGT $GECWUG QH [QWT YQPFGTHWN ECTG UJG KU PQY CV JQOG CPF FQKPI OWEJ DGVVGT 6JCPMU VQ CNN VJG &QEVQTU 0WTUGU 6GEJÂśU CPF VJG GPVKTG UVCHH 'XGT[QPG YCU XGT[ TGURGEVHWN MKPF CPF XGT[ RTQHGUUKQPCN 9G HGGN DNGUUGF VQ JCXG VJKU SWCNKV[ QH ECTG KP 5GXKGT %QWPV[ CPF YKVJ VJG PGY JQURKVCN YG VJKPM VJG ECTG YKNN QPN[ IGV DGVVGT

Any stress in your life?

;QW CTG CNN )QFÂśU #PIGNU /C[ )QF $NGUU ;QW

Now doing STRESS MANAGEMENT

2C@Âą$<HDGTÂąJAÂą1<GGTÂą['M@I@`Âą0@<B<I

WE CAN HELP!

865-908-2838

IN THE + -ART 3HOPPING #ENTER s 3EVIERVILLE

WITH PURCHASE OF ADULT ENTRÉE.

Hot Meals

GateKeepers men’s Bible study, 6:30 p.m. 1328 Old Newport Highway, Sevierville. 908-0591.

Open until 7pm Mon-Fri Sat 10am-2pm 213 Forks of the River Pkwy

ONE HALF OFF ALL WINE AND DRAFT BEER

Gatlinburg Library

Smoky Mountain Church of the Nazarene, 2652 Upper Middle Creek Road. 9081245. n 10-noon, River Of Life Outreach, 110 Simmons Road, Seymour. 679-6796. n 9:30 to 11 a.m. Basic Life Ministries, formerly The Father’s House, 139 Bruce Street. 286-9784 or 230-1526.

Âą!CDG?M@IÂą Âą1KJPN@N Âą Âą%M<I?>CDG?M@I Âą%M@<OÂą%M<I?>CDG?M@IÂą Âą Âą%M@<OÂą%M@<OÂą%M<I?>CDG?Âą +JHÂąN<TNÂą2C<IFNÂąOJJ

A4 â—† Local

The Mountain Press â—† Monday, January 11, 2010

Man faces 5 aggravated assault counts

OBITUARIES

In Memoriam

Staff Report

Shelby Jean Howell

Shelby Jean Howell, age 65 of Dandridge, TN, passed away Saturday evening, January 9, 2010 at Ft. Sanders Sevier Medical Center. She was the daughter of the late Vernon and Beulah Tipton Haire and was a member of the Lighthouse Church. Preceded in death by her brother, Roger Wayne “Butch� Haire. She was a beloved sister and friend and will be missed by all. Survivors: sister: Shirley Ann Garner; brothers: Charles Vernon Haire and Ferman Ray Haire Funeral services will be 7:00 PM Monday, January 11, 2010, at Farrar Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Darrell Williams officiating. The family will receive friends Monday evening, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. prior to services. In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials be directed to the Shelby Jean Howell Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1025, Dandridge, TN 37725. Arrangements by Farrar Funeral Home, Dandridge. n www.farrarfuneralhome.com

Jerry Lee Rolen Jerry Lee Rolen, Sr., 69, of Knoxville, died Friday, January 8, 2010 at St. Mary ’s North Hospital. Survivors: wife, Katie Rolen; children, Malisa Gail Kontour, Sandra M. Rolen Mackey and husband Tracy, and Jerry L. Rolen, Jr. and wife Rita; 11 grandchildren; brothers and sister-in-law, Mike and Faye Rolen and Paul Rolen; sisters and brother-in-law, Betty O’Neal, Geneva and Murrell Parton, and Mary Kate Webb. Funeral service 1 p.m. Monday in the East Chapel of Atchley Funeral Home with Brother John Daniels officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Zion Cemetery.

Hobert Kenneth “John� Kerr, 87, of Sevierville, died Friday, January 8, 2010. Survivors: sisters, Helen Flynn, Francis Loveday; srothers, Mayford and wife Helen, Ernest and wife Ruby, and Raymond Kerr; brotherin-law, Brownie Campbell and wife Christine; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; special friends, Claude England and Gene Abbott. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Millican Grove Baptist Church Building Fund, 1559 Allensville Rd., Sevierville, TN 37876 Funeral ser vice were Sunday in the East Chapel of Atchley Funeral Home with Rev. David Wilson officiating. n www.atchleyfuneralhome.com Interment 11 a.m. Monday in Millican Grove Cemetery. Elizabeth Kuncitis Nephews and great nephews Elizabeth Kuncitis, 53, will serve as pallbearers. of Sevierville, died Friday, January 8, 2010 at St. www.atchleyfuneralhome.com Mary ’s Hospital in Knoxville, TN.

SPEAKER

3From Page A1

low-paying jobs. I’m unemployed now, and in the past month, I’ve put out more than 100 resumes. It’s extremely difficult to find a job.� Becoming self-employed is what many people in Tack’s situation often do, Kohan said. “If you have a particular hobby or specialty, why not start a business?� she

PLANNERS 3From Page A1

NEW YORK (AP) — The confession was dramatic and videotaped. The weeping woman described to a prosecutor how she fatally bludgeoned her boss — punk-rock pioneer and celebrity real estate broker Linda Stein — with a piece of exercise equipment. The suspect, Stein’s personal assistant, said she snapped after Stein insulted and Sur vivors include her parents, Edgars and Anna Kuncitis of Sevierville; a brother, Edgar Kuncitis of Sevierville; uncles, Lorenz Hermann of Knoxville and Stephan and wife Margret Hermann; aunt Zigrida Simonsons; cousins, Michelle and husband Doug Kurry and their children, Kaitlyn and Jaclyn; Dogmar and Stanley Salkewiezc; and the Steins family. A private committal service will be conducted in the Hamblen Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Relay For Life. Arrangements are by Stubblefield Funeral Home.

Oris Lee Waters Sr. Oris Lee Waters Sr., age 94 of Sevierville, passed away Saturday, January 9, 2010. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville.

cursed at her and blew marijuana smoke in her face. “’Leave me alone. Leave me alone!�’ Natavia Lowery said she recalled thinking while clubbing Stein six times in the agent’s Fifth Avenue apartment. Lowery has since said her confession was false — a claim at the heart of the

ELIZABETHTON (AP) — Two people have died and two others were injured in a trailer home fire in northeastern Tennessee. Fire crews arrived on the scene of a trailer fully engulfed in flames around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. WJHL-TV reported that two people were treated at the Johnson City Medical Center and the bodies of two others were taken to Quillen College of Medicine for autopsies. The names of the victims were not immediately released and the cause of the fire was still under investigation.

her own guide, which started out with determining if one is even the “entrepreneurial type.� “Are you going to be disciplined enough to do this?� she challenged. “Are you going to be able to go into the little office you’ve created and work there, despite the TV, the Internet and the kids in the next room?� Kohan also discussed examining the viability of one’s business idea; writing a business plan;

financing the business; licenses, regulations and permits; refining the marketing plan; modifying one’s product; and more. “If you think positive, positive things will come to you,� she said. For more information on programs with the Sevier County Public Library System, call its administrative office at 774-6033.

suit he’s filed related to a planning issue in about a month. In early December, Ogle submitted court documents claiming the county illegally rejected his plan to build 400 homes on Cove Mountain in the proposed High Bridge development. He’s seeking $50 million in damages in that action. Also on the agenda for Tuesday’s session is: n Introducing new mem-

ber Dale Reagan, who is filling out the unexpired term of the late Joe Irwin, to the group Design plan review n Douglas Lake Resort, a 130-lot development on 153.91 acres off Flat Creek Road Rezoning request n From Hillside LLC

for property on South Old Sevierville Pike from R-1 (rural residential) to R-2 (high-density residential) Site Plan Review n Waffle House, a new restaurant on property next to Sonic on Chapman Highway in Seymour.

7INTER 4UNE 5P 3PECIAL

s #OMPLETE 3YSTEM #HECK s #LEANS #OILS s &REON 4OP OFF 5P TO LBS

%XP

2%!'!. (%!4).' 0,5-").' GAS

ELECTRIC

2007 murder case as it heads for trial. Jury selection is expected to start as soon as Monday. After losing a bid to keep Lowery’s statements from being used at her trial, her lawyers want jurors to hear about the psychology surrounding false confessions, over prosecutors’ objections. A judge hasn’t yet ruled.

Trailer fire WEATHER 3From Page A1 kills two, injures 2 could bring a little more snow. in Elizabethon “We have another little

asked, rhetorically. Tack said she felt there were lots of services she could provide on her own, but she confessed that she was “scared� and had no capital. “That’s the biggest thing that keeps people from doing it — fear,� Kohan said. “There are grants you can apply for online to help you get started. People want a step-bystep guide (when starting a business).� And so Kohan presented

3AVE .OW ^ /N 5TILITY #OST &2/:%. 0)0% 30%#)!,)34 3AVE 5P 4O ON .EW 3YSTEMS

attacked Flynn with a knife and stabbed her, then when she tried to go to the hospital Blowers shot the front tire of her car with a shotgun. Flynn was treated and released from Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center. Blowers was treated and released from UT Medical Center in Knoxville.

n ebrown@themountainpress.com

system that might bring an inch in the mountains,� Gaffin said Sunday afternoon. “It looks like we might get a dusting in the valley. That should be the last we see (of frozen precipitation) for the immediate future.� After an expected low of 23 tonight, the forecast

POKEMON

3From Page A1

other media. “My son was given a pack of Pokemon cards in 1998 by his cousins,� said Keith Haas, Pokemon tournament organizer for East Tennessee. “Now he’s 15, and he’s still playing.� Tournament participants play with a 60-card playing deck of the trading cards, with certain rules and regulations of what can be put in the deck. The 40-minute rounds are split into three age groups: Junior Division includes those born in 1999 and younger; Senior Division, those born from 1995-1998; and Masters Division, those born in 1994 and before. Prizes were given to

calls for partly cloudy skies and a high of 35 Tuesday, with a low of 20. By Wednesday, the high will climb to 47 — and sunny, with a low still a frigid 24. “At least until the weekend after that, it won’t be anything like we’ve had,� Gaffin said. “We should be seeing temperatures near our normal values.� Gaffin said the norms for this time of the year are highs of 46 and lows of 28. n bmayes@themountainpress.com

the top four in each age group. “We have folks here today from Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Virginia, Cleveland and Chattanooga, as well as locals,� said Haas, who has traveled across the country judging tournaments. “The social interaction is great, and it’s a very strategic game. The main thing is that we have fun.� “My daughter got me into this,� said Tom Wise of Asheville, N.C. “It’s a lot of fun, and I like winning stuff.� Noah Sawyer, 9, of Chattanooga, encountered his first Pokemon trading card at a yard sale. “It’s fun challenging your friends,� he said. “When I first started playing, I knew it would be.� n ebrown@themountainpress.com

n dhodges@themountainpress.com

FJ6A>IN :N:L:6G 6I 6B6O>C<AN ADL EG>8:H FJ6A>IN :N:L:6G 6I 6B6O>C<AN ADL EG>8:H

Buy ONE Complete Pair of Single Vision Glasses and Get One FREE INCLUDES EXAM

109.95

$

2 Boxes of Disposable Contacts INCLUDES EXAM

109.95

$

Dr. Lane’s Payless Optical

HEA:C9DG D6@H EA6O6 ™ &(*) 9daan EVgidc E`ln# HZk^Zgk^aaZ

-+* )'-"',,-

FJ6A>IN :N:L:6G 6I 6B6O>C<AN ADL EG>8:H

a Wears Valley group pushing for the construction of a greenway trail through the area. “They asked me to donate the land for that and so that’s what I did,� Ogle said. If Ogle’s plan is rejected and he does sue the county, it will be the second law-

tracked down Blowers after officers were flagged down early Sunday morning on Wears Valley Road by David Bell, 26, who said he shot someone after Flynn was attacked. Bell told the officers he was afraid for his life so he shot Blowers with a handgun from inside the residence. Police say Blowers

Assistant goes on trial in ex-punk manager slaying

FJ6A>IN :N:L:6G 6I 6B6O>C<AN ADL EG>8:H

Hobert Kenneth “John� Kerr

PIGEON FORGE — A man accused of attacking and stabbing a woman in Pigeon Forge was arrested Sunday and charged with five counts of aggravated assault by the Pigeon Forge Police Department. Joseph B. Blowers, 24,

is accused of attacking Shasta Flynn, 20, and stabbing her in her hand. Blowers had a gunBlowers shot wound in his torso. Pigeon Forge police

Ă€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ Â˜ĂŠ9ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ Â…Ă•Ă€VÂ…ĂŠ Ă•Â?Â?iĂŒÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ >˜`ĂŠ,iViÂˆĂ›iĂŠ Ă“xÂŻĂŠ ĂŠ"vvĂŠ9ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ i>Â?t

ĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠ

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

/PEN $AYS ! 7EEK

/Â…iĂŠ"Â?`ĂŠ ˆÂ?Â?ĂŠ,iĂƒĂŒ>Ă•Ă€>Â˜ĂŒ

nĂˆx‡{ә‡ ĂŠ­ĂŽ{ĂˆĂŽÂŽ

*ÂœĂŒĂŒiÀÞÊ ÂœĂ•ĂƒiĂŠ >viAĂŠEĂŠ Ă€ÂˆÂ?Â?i

nĂˆx‡{xĂŽÂ‡ĂˆääĂ“

Lunch and Dinner

,UNCH $AILY ˆ $INNER &RI 3AT ˆ CLOSE

Va l i d t h r u J a n u a r y 3 1 , 2 0 1 0 DAVID G. MCCARTY, LFD, MGR., OWNER

PHONE: 774~2950

607 Wall Street in Bradford Square ~ Sevierville, TN 37862

OldMillSquare.com

1 7 5 O l d M i l l Av e . a t Tr a ff i c L i g h t # 7 • P i g e o n F o r g e , T N

Digital Home Advantage offer requires 24-month commitment and credit qualification. Customer receives credits for each of the first 12 months. If service is terminated before the end of 24 months, a cancellation fee of $15 per month remaining will be charged. All equipment is leased, and must be returned to DISH Network upon cancellation or an equipment fee will be charged. Limit 4 tuners per account; lease upgrade fee will apply for select receivers; additional monthly fees apply for each receiver added beyond the first. HBO/Showtime: Customer receives credits for each of the first 3 months; customer must call or use website to downgrade or then-current price will apply. Cinemax: Requires AutoPay with Paperless Billing. Offer ends 1/31/10; first-time DISH Network customers only. HD programming requires HD television. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. Offer is subject to the terms of the Promotional and Residential Customer Agreements. Local channels are only available in certain areas; additional fees may apply. HBOÂŽ and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS company. iPhone is a trademark of Apple, Inc. SLICKS1725_Q3RtlrAd_A3.3_bw

Nation â—† A5

Monday, January 11, 2010 â—† The Mountain Press

NATION BRIEFS

GOP chief: Reid should step down

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican Party chairman says Sen. Harry Reid should step down as the Senate Democratic leader over racial remarks Reid made about Barack Obama during the 2008 presidential campaign. GOP Chairman Michael Steele says if a Republican had made such remarks, Democrats would be calling for that Republican’s head. In a private conversation reported in a new book, Reid described Obama as a “light-skinned� AfricanAmerican “with no Negro dialect, unless he wanted to have one.� Reid has apologized to Obama, and the president said he considers the episode closed. Democratic Party chairman Tim Kaine says the remarks should not affect Reid’s leadership position. Steele and Kaine spoke on “Fox News Sunday.�

Leno’s nightly prime-time show ending

PASADENA, Calif (AP) — NBC decided to end the Jay Leno experiment when some of its affiliates started talking about dropping the nightly prime-time show, its top entertainment executive said Sunday. NBC Universal Television Entertainment Chairman Jeff Gaspin said Sunday that Leno’s nightly primetime show will end with the beginning of the Winter Olympics on Feb. 12. NBC wants Leno to do an 11:35 p.m. show each night, a return to his old time slot, Gaspin said. Gaspin said despite lower ratings for NBC at 10 p.m. compared with last year, the network was making money off the show. But affiliates were upset that the show was leading fewer viewers into their late news programs, costing them significant advertising revenue. Some affiliates told NBC in December they would go public soon about their complaints if a change wasn’t made, or even take Leno’s show off the air. Gaspin has proposed moving Conan O’Brien’s “Tonight� show to 12:05 a.m., and Jimmy Fallon’s show would start an hour later. But the late-night hosts had not agreed to the move. Gaspin said he expected NBC’s late-night situation to be cleared up by the start of the Olympics.

Stephanopoulos ends ‘This Week’ run

NEW YORK (AP) — George Stephanopoulos has ended a seven-year run as host of ABC News’ “This Week� interview program. Stephanopoulos, who last month began his new job co-anchoring ABC’s “Good Morning America,� had been doing double duty the past several weeks. Wrapping up his final “This Week� broadcast Sunday, he thanked the audience as well as his colleagues. ABC has said no replacement will be named right away, with a rotating group of substitutes filling in. The next two weeks, ABC correspondents Jake Tapper and Terry Moran are scheduled to host. Both are considered candidates to land the job permanently, as is PBS’ Gwen Ifill. The name of Ted Koppel, original anchor of ABC’s “Nightline,� surfaced last week as another possible candidate.

Jet makes emergency landing

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — Landing gear problems has forced a United Airlines flight to make an emergency landing at Newark Liberty International Airport. No injuries were reported in the landing at around 9:30 a.m. Sunday. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates the airport, said all 53 people aboard Flight 634 from Chicago got off the plane safely. Officials say the plane’s landing gear apparently failed to deploy properly. It was not yet clear why that happened. The incident has caused delays of about an hour for departing flights.

Anchorage officer shot several times

Quake leaves jumble of debris Registers 6.5 in northern California By DON THOMPSON Associated Press Writer EUREKA, Calif. — A powerful offshore earthquake that struck near the Northern California coast left a hodgepodge of debris for communities to sort through Sunday but spared residents any serious injury. The 6.5 magnitude temblor hit late Saturday afternoon and was centered in the Pacific about 22 miles west of Ferndale. It was felt in towns more than 300 miles south into central California and as far north as central Oregon, the U.S. Geological Survey said. Ferndale is about 240 miles north of San Francisco. Dozens of people suffered minor injuries and thousands lost power. In Eureka, north of Ferndale, residents of an apartment building were evacuated, and an office building and two other commercial structures in the town of about 26,000 people were declared unsafe for occupancy, according to Humboldt

SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) — Both times that accused serial killer Rodney Alcala was sentenced to death in the killing of a young girl, a court overturned his conviction. So when prosecutors filed charges a third time and added four new cases, he made a startling decision: represent himself. His decision is almost unheard of in a death penalty case and is bound to create a surreal scene when his trial begins today. The former photographer with a purported IQ between 160 and 170 and an obsession with detail plans to testify himself, call prosecutors from his previous trials as witnesses and question the mother of one of his five alleged victims, a 12-year-old girl last seen riding a bicycle to ballet class. “He’s obviously a bright guy and he’s been involved in the legal process for 30 years, so if he’s paid any atten-

Happy New Year $ 50.00 OFF

s #ELL

Buying GOLD!

Silver - Gold Filled - Platinum

THE DIAMOND HOUSE Pigeon Forge

453-3294

We’ll Beat ANY Price - Check Us LAST!

BIG BUCKS

We Pay

BEST Pizza in Town Crusty Joe’s Pizzeria!!

Since 1987, Crusty Joe has been making authentic New York Style Pizza, Pasta, Calzones, Subs, Salads and Desserts using fresh, homemade ingredients and recipes. We are located next to the Americana Inn on the Northbound Parkway in Pigeon Forge between lights 3 & 4 to serve you.

Try our pizza lunch buffet every weekday! 11:30am - 2pm

Watch the weekend FOOTBALL games on our 2 Flat-Screen TVs!

We even serve beer! Dine In, Carryout or Delivery (limited area)

Open 7 days a week.

865-365-1218 American Owned and Operated.

tion he’s probably learned a fair amount,� said Michael Brennan, a clinical law professor at the University of Southern California who’s handled death penalty appeals. “But it’s an incredible task, particularly in a death penalty case,� Brennan said. “It’s a huge mistake.� While Alcala has seen the case of the young Robin Samsoe play out twice before, the new charges in the serial slayings of four Los Angeles County women could make his gamble even more daunting. “The stakes are very high,� said Jean Rosenbluth, a USC law professor and former prosecutor. “It’s going to be a lot of witnesses and a lot of stuff going on that he hasn’t had the opportunity to observe yet.�

0IANO ,ESSONS

3NELLING 3TUDIOS !LL !GES

Ăš4HE-OUNTAIN 0RESS @

Buy With Any building on the lot for sale with this coupon. Your Tax Refund Offer good 01/01/2010 thru 01/31/2010

W Weeyy PPaa

County spokesman Phil Smith-Hanes. “Our initial reports were that, though this was a pretty decent quake, we survived it well,� SmithHanes said, adding that damage assessments would continue Sunday across the county. Sandra Hall, owner of Antiques and Goodies, said furniture fell over, nearly all her lamps broke and the handful of customers in her store got a big scare. She said it was the most

Accused serial killer will defend self in capital case

From Insulated Storage Buildings at Flat Creek Village

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — An Anchorage police officer was ambushed without provocation by unknown gunmen early Saturday as he sat in his patrol car working on an apparently unrelated assault case, police said, and city officials vowed to catch those responsible. “We are shocked, we are outraged, we are angered,� Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan said at an afternoon press briefing.

Associated Press

Eureka Natural Foods employees clean up the store as a back-up generator provides power after an earthquake struck on Saturday.

Feed the Family Special: GIANT 20� CHEESE PIZZA + 4 Lg Fountain Drinks for

$19.94 + tx

(additional toppings extra)

Now with a second location in the Gatlinburg Space Needle!

dramatic quake in the 30 years the Eureka store has been open. “We’ll be having a sale on broken china for those who like to do mosaics,� she said. More than a dozen aftershocks, some with magnitudes as powerful as 4.5, rumbled for several hours after the initial quake, which had a depth of nearly 10 miles. Authorities on Saturday said no major injuries were reported. But several

people received minor cuts and scrapes from broken glass at the Bayshore Mall in Eureka, and an elderly person fell and broke a hip, authorities said. “We’re mostly getting reports of bumps, bruises and hits on the head,� said Laurie Watson Stone, a spokeswoman for St. Joseph Hospital, a 146bed hospital in Eureka. “The emergency room is busy, but we haven’t heard of any major injuries.�

>iXe[ Fg\e`e^ EX`cj Yp1 Cpee E`Zb › 8cjf ?\Xk_\i DXpÔ\c[ DXjjX^\j Yp1 KXepX >iffdj =XZ`Xcj Yp1 AXe`Z\ ?\ckfe Free grand opening gift with any service 1811 Parkway #101 Sevierville, TN (Across from IHOP)

Walk Ins Welcome (865) 365-1601 -ON 3AT AM PM s 3UN

A6 ◆

The Mountain Press ◆ Monday, January 11, 2010

sunrise in the smokies

TODAY’S Briefing Local n

SEVIERVILLE

Emergency panel to meet Jan. 28

The Sevier County Local Emergency Planning Committee will meet at 10 a.m. Jan. 28 at the E911 Building on Bruce Street. The committee is comprised of representatives from area emergency service agencies and associated groups, who meet on a monthly basis to discuss disaster preparedness and responses to large scale emergencies.

n

SEVIERVILLE

Election panel to meet Thursday The Sevier County Election Commission will meet at 4:30 p.m. Thursday at the voting machine warehouse, 1145 Dolly Parton Parkway. The commission will discuss the Boyds Creek polling location

n

SEVIERVILLE

407 Merchants group to meet

The Sevierville 407 Merchants will meet at 12:30 p.m. Jan. 19 at Islamorada Restaurant in the Bass Pro Shops. Greg Hosler will make a presentation about a www.sevierville407.com Web site. John Turley from the Dumplin Creek development and Charles Atchley from Great Smoky Mountain Flea Market also will speak.

n

SEVIERVILLE

Tennis leagues may be formed

The Sevierville Parks & Recreation Department is considering an adult tennis league in the spring. If there is enough interest, leagues may be formed for competitive and recreational players. Contact Patrick Oxley, athletic supervisor with the department, at 4535441 or the City Park office at 453-6616 to express interest. The league probably would run April through June. The league would be for ages 18 or older.

n

SEVIER COUNTY

Helping Hearts has new numbers

Tennessee Helping Hearts has a new phone system and new telephone numbers. The new numbers: (865) 366-7224; fax 366-7142.

State n

CHATTANOOGA

Insurer addresses security breach

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee will start contacting customers this week whose personal information was exposed when hard drives were stolen from the state’s largest health insurer. The insurer has been analyzing the security breach since 57 hard drives were stolen in October from a storage closet at the Eastgate Town Center training center. Company spokeswoman Mary Thompson said that letters are being mailed in batches starting this week as the data is being combed over and the breaches are discovered. Chattanooga-based insurer has 3.1 million customers, but the company has not released a total estimate of how many were affected.

top state news

Lottery Numbers

Program designed to help troubled youth CHATTANOOGA (AP) — It was three years ago when Kathy and Chris Young’s 13-year-old daughter, Jessica, started acting out. But her actions went further than those of the typical rebellious teenager. Over the years Jessica, now 16, began cutting herself, running away from home at night and threatening suicide, said Mrs. Young, Jessica’s stepmother for more than a decade. Overwhelmed and frightened for Jessica’s safety, the Athens parents

considered placing their daughter in a residential treatment facility, where they hoped experts could help her. But Mrs. Young said they couldn’t stand the thought of Jessica going away. “Emotionally, it just tears me apart. I can’t imagine to think of something like that,” she said. Instead, in August, they started working with Memphis-based Youth Villages, a private, nonprofit organization focused on child welfare. The group’s in-home

counseling program is rooted in the notion that family can provide the best support for a child. Options such as foster care, the juvenile justice system or residential treatment are considered only as a last resort, organizers say. Mrs. Young said the regular in-home counseling on how to set and maintain boundaries for Jessica has made a difference in just a few months. Jessica said the counseling has helped her better deal with her emotions. “My fits (of anger)

used to be five hours. Now it’s five minutes,” she said. The idea of focusing on a child’s whole environment, from parents to siblings to school life, is a departure from a philosophy that aimed to “fix” children in a setting away from home, organizers said. The in-home strategy has improved outcomes for children with emotional or behavioral problems and added stability in their lives, said Kori Bell, Chattanooga regional supervisor for the program.

TODAY’S FORECAST

January 9, 2010 Evening: 3-3-2

January 9, 2010 Evening: 2-8-2-1

January 9, 2010 20-41-44-50-54

n

Locally a year ago:

Dennis Bolze, Gatlinburg investor who disappeared last month, was once most commonly described as generous. He built a reputation as a philanthropist and did everything he could to ensure the causes he cared about were well funded. Attorney Scott Hall, representing some investors, said, “I keep hoping he’ll show back up and his financial status is OK and this has all been a big mistake.”

High: 36° Low: 23° Wind 5-10 mph

Chance of rain 0%

■ Tuesday

n

Today’s highlight:

On Jan. 11, 1935, aviator Amelia Earhart began an 18-hour trip from Honolulu to Oakland, Calif., that made her the first woman to fly solo across the Pacific Ocean.

Partly cloudy

High: 35° Low: 20° ■ Wednesday Sunny

High: 47° Low: 24°

n

On this date:

In 1861, Alabama seceded from the Union. In 1964, U.S. Surgeon General Luther Terry issued the first government report that said smoking may be hazardous to one’s health.

■ Lake Stages: Douglas 952.0 Unch

■ Ober ski report Base: 47-62 inches

n

Primary surface: Machine groomed

Ten years ago:

Whittling away more of the federal government’s power over states, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled, 5-4, that state employees cannot go into federal court to sue over age discrimination.

Trails open: Ober Chute, Bear Run, Castle Run, Alpine Way, Ski School, Grizzly, Mogul Ridge

quote roundup “I have no intention of sending U.S. boots on the ground in these regions. ... (However) I never rule out any possibility in a world that is this complex ... in countries like Yemen, in countries like Somalia, I think working with international partners is most effective at this point.” — President Barack Obama on the possibility of sending U.S. troops to Yemen or Somalia.

“There is this standard where the Democrats feel that they can say these things and they can apologize when it comes from the mouths of their own. But if it comes from anyone else, it’s racism. It’s either racist or it’s not. And it’s inappropriate, absolutely.” — Republican Party Chairman Michael Steele after Democratic Sen. Harry Reid of Nevada apologized to President Barack Obama after Reid described Obama during the 2008 presidential campaign as a “lightskinned” African-American “with no Negro dialect, unless he wanted to have one.”

How to Subscribe Just mail this coupon in with your payment to: The Mountain Press P.O. Box 4810 Sevierville, TN 37864-4810 0r Phone 428-0746 ext. 231 Ask about Easy Pay. . 55 or older? Call for your special rates In County Home Delivery Rates 4 weeks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 11.60

13 weeks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 37.70 26 weeks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 74.10 52 weeks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 145.60

Name: _________________________ Address: _______________________ City: _______________St: ____ Zip: ____ Phone: ________________________

The Mountain Press (ISSN 0894-2218) Copyright 2008 The Mountain Press. All Rights Reserved. All property belongs to The Mountain Press and no part may be reproduced without prior written consent. Published daily by The Mountain Press. P.O. Box 4810, Sevierville, TN, 37864, 119 River Bend Dr., Sevierville, TN 37876. Periodical Postage paid at Sevierville, TN.

x2

Today is Monday, Jan. 11, the 11th day of 2010. There are 354 days left in the year.

Sunny

Publisher: Jana Thomasson Editor: Stan Voit Production Director: Tom McCarter Advertising Director: Joi Whaley Business Manager: Mary Owenby Circulation Distribution Manager: Will Sing

13

This day in history

LOCAL:

Staff

8

Subscriptions

“A UT-TPA Prize Winning Newspaper”

How to Reach Us:

Carrier Delivery (Where Available): $11.60 Phone: (865) 428-0746 per 4 weeks Fax: (865) 453-4913 In-County Mail: $13.08 per 4 weeks P.O. Box 4810, Out-of-County Mail: $19.60 per 4 weeks Sevierville, TN 37864 Postmaster: Send address changes to The Mountain Press, P.O. Box 4810, Sevierville, TN Departments: 37864 News: Ext. 214; e-mail: editor@themountainpress. com Office Hours: Sports: Ext. 210; e-mail: mpsports@themountain8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Weekdays press.com Located at 119 Riverbend Dr., Sevierville, TN Classifieds: Ext. 201 & 221 37876 Commercial Printing: Ext. 229

n

Five years ago:

President George W. Bush nominated federal judge Michael Chertoff to be homeland security chief, succeeding Tom Ridge. n

Thought for today:

“The essence of taste is suitability. Divest the word of its prim and priggish implications, and see how it expresses the mysterious demand of the eye and mind for symmetry, harmony and order.” — Edith Wharton, American author (18621937).

Celebrities in the news n

“Avatar”

LOS ANGELES (AP) — James Cameron’s “Avatar” continues to race up the box office charts, remaining No. 1 domestically for the fourth straight weekend with $48.5 million and placing second among all-time top-grossing films worldwide. The science-fiction saga from 20th Century Fox added $143 million overseas to raise its international haul to $906 million. With $429 million domestically, “Avatar” has pulled in $1.34 billion worldwide, behind only Cameron’s “Titanic,” which took in $1.8 billion.

Mountain Views

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peacably to assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.” —United States Constitution, Amendment One

■ The Mountain Press ■ Page A7 ■ Monday, January 11, 2010

commentary

Change must be embraced to move ahead “The more things change, the more they are the same.” That quote is credited to Alphonse Karr, a French journalist who died in 1890, more than 100 years ago. Reinhold Niebuhr wrote the Serenity Prayer about 50 years ago; “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.” For me, this has always been a tremendous challenge. The world is changing faster than ever. Our county is going through great change as you could see in The Mountain Press on Jan. 3, when the headline was “Decade in Review.” Although we are experiencing many of the same economic challenges as the rest of the nation, we are fortunate in many ways. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to bring guests our way. In 2007 the Sevierville Events Center opened and it has become one of the most successful in the country, bringing millions of dollars in new revenue to Sevier County. Henry Piarrot, the new president of the Sevierville Lodging Association, invited me to speak at the first meeting of the new year. There were about 80 people in attendance, representing lodging, the Chamber, city government and vendors who work as partners. There was a great deal of energy and synergy in the meeting room at the Events Center. Mike Wilds, who was originally asked to come in as a consultant for the center and was then asked to be the director, was recognized for all that he and the team have achieved. Mike is much in demand and will be going back to consulting as of Feb. 1. I have had the privilege of working with many people in positions similar to Mike. He is, by far, one of the most professional servant Leaders that I have ever known and he leaves quite a legacy. We have so much going for us in this area. Things are simply tools that can be used for good or for evil. Computers are a wonderful tool, yet pedophiles use them for evil. We live in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains — not a tool, a great natural resource. God gave it to us and it stands beautifully painted with snow right now and magnificently colored in the Fall. “Megatrends,” one of the best selling books of the past 25 years, talked about “High Tech, High Touch.” As things change, with more and more use of technology, we must be keenly aware of building personal relationships with people. If your doctor moves their office, you will most likely go to the new location. You and the doctor have built a relationship over the years and while technology plays a key role in medicine today, the doctor must know how to interpret the test results, communicate them to the patient and then decide on the best course of action. Anthony D’Angelo said, “Become a student of change. It is the only thing that will remain constant.” D’Angelo is a man who has sparked a revolution in higher education. In the spring of 1995, he was inspired by a vision to “Take Higher Education Deeper.” At the young age of 23, he left his cushy job, liquidated his personal savings, got a “grant” from his Discover Card (he went into over $150,000 in personal debt to fund the vision) and drove throughout the MidAtlantic to interview over 5,000 college students and 1,000 university professionals. His goal was to gain the pulse of what college students were missing. Six months into his journey he found it. Based on his research and interviews, he learned what was missing from most students’ collegiate experience. He discovered that most college students go to college and get a degree, but not an education. Today D’Angelo serves as the chief visionary officer of Collegiate EmPowerment, where it is his lifetime mission to “Take Higher Education Deeper” by empowering students, educators and university executives a like to embrace the concepts, strategies and tools of Collegiate EmPowerment for success in the 21st Century. Will we adapt and embrace change, or will we perish? — Dave Gorden of Sevierville is a member of the Speakers Hall of Fame, past president of the National Speakers Association and one of the Authors of “Chicken Soup For the Adopted Soul.” E-mail Dave@davegorden.com.

Editorial

Believe this one New aquarium attraction signals bright year ahead for local tourism When Gatlinburg City Manager Cindy Ogle talks about the planned penguin exhibit at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, she is rightfully proud of seeing a local business expand. But she also is not bashful about admitting another reason the news was so appreciated. The $5 million interactive penguin exhibit opening in spring will be another major boost to the local tourism market, yet another reason for tourists to choose Gatlinburg as their destination. Believe it or not. That’s an important aspect to last week’s announcement. The aquarium, among the best in the nation and in fact voted No. 1 by one Web site poll, already draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Adding a feature with animals so beloved by the public, and in a way that will allow visitors to be right there among the penguins, signals not only Ripley’s commitment to its Gatlinburg properties, but also the need to be different, to add features, to

give people something new and exciting whenever possible. The aquarium, Dollywood, the theaters and our other tourist destinations will have to deal with a new kid on the block this year: the Titanic attraction opening in a month or so in Pigeon Forge. This one will be a major draw. It’s got experienced people behind it, a great location and an existing and successful formula for success — there is one in Branson. The Titanic will be a success. While some may be fearful of what it could do to their own business model, the new attraction will only serve to bring more people to our community. More people will mean more business for all those attractions that keep changing, keep moving, keep looking for new ways to bring in customers. Those business owners who are complacent will be the ones at highest risk.

This will be a big year for tourism in Sevier County. The economy is improving, so people will start traveling again and spending more on their trips. Dollywood will be observing its 25th anniversary and opening a new ride. Ripley’s will celebrate 40 years as a presence in Gatlinburg — it has several other attractions there and elsewhere in the county. The Titantic gives us a new player with aggressive owners who will live in this community. There is much reason for optimism as we begin this new year. The last couple of years have been less successful than we were used to. We suffered as did almost every segment of our economy. For Ripley’s to invest millions in a new exhibit, designed to be visitorfriendly, is a sign of good things to come. Under the leadership of Ryan DeSear — a Gatlinburg-Pittman graduate, by the way — the Ripley’s attractions in Sevier County will prosper.

Political view

Public forum Filing for unemployment causes confusion, frustration for many

Due to high filing volumes online certification would not work either. I finally was able to get the certification to go through. Logically one would then expect Editor: a check? No. My mother did not receive a With area unemployment on the rise, feel sorry for those who must jump through check even though she was not supposed to ridiculous hoops in filing for unemployment have a waiting period. It took nearly three weeks for her check to arrive and then she in Tennessee. received two at once. This would be OK if When the state closed Labor and Workforce Development offices to claimants, you had money to live on for three weeks. For the others, I hope you have an underthey created a bottleneck of confusion. In standing landlord. requiring claimants to file online or phone, This difficulty in certifying weekly occurs they assured that many individuals tired of every week, but while annoying I realize the confusing directions on the phone or unable to use a computer would just give up. the automated certification center is overMy mother is an unemployed housekeeper whelmed. But the absolute last straw was when my mother finally exhausted her reguwho has no experience with computers and has a hearing problem that makes telephone lar benefits; she was supposed to switch to extended benefits until she would be able to use difficult. I filed her initial claim online. file a new claim on Jan. 2. That did not hapThe first week my mother called in for pen, but apparently it is the case with every weekly certification. One simply cannot get applicant. My mother called our local Labor through on the telephone. After being told and Workforce development office and was repeatedly that due to high call volume she informed they could not help her. What do could not certify, she called me and I once they get paid for. They apparently get our tax again went online. dollars for directing people to call someone

else and showing people computers they can use themselves to file without assistance from the paid employees. We called the number given to my mother. No one ever answered. One cannot leave a message because the mailbox is always “full.” My mother has called multiple times. I have called over 200 times and not spoken to one person. I have been unable to leave a message. My mother is being cheated out of her emergency unemployment benefits. I will not give up. I will continue to call and write letters. Many will say that if people like me did not continue to call, the claim center would not be overwhelmed, but I say if they would empty the mailboxes, call back the claimants and actually do their jobs, the center would not be overwhelmed. I hope that everyone who has experienced this will join me in writing to their congressmen and to Gov. Bredesen to express their outrage, because while they may be poor and unemployed, they can indeed still vote. Jama A. Gray Sevierville

Letters to the editor policy and how to contact us: ◆ We encourage our readers to send letters to the editor. Letters must contain no more than 500 words. No more than one letter per person will be published in a 30-day period. Letters must be neatly printed or typed and contain no libel, plagiarism or personal attacks. All letters are subject to editing for style, length and content. Statements of fact must be attributed to a source for verification. All letters must be signed and contain a phone number and address for verification purposes. No anonymous or unverified letters will be printed. No letters endorsing candidates will be considered. The Mountain Press reserves the right to refuse publication of any letter. E-MAIL LETTERS TO: editor@themountainpress.com or MAIL LETTERS TO: Editor, The Mountain Press, P.O. Box 4810, Sevierville, TN 37864. For questions, call (865) 428-0748, ext. 214. The Mountain Press and its publishers do not necessarily agree with the opinions expressed in letters and columns on this page.

Editorial Board:

State Legislators:

Federal Legislators:

◆ Jana Thomasson, Publisher ◆ Stan Voit, Editor ◆ Bob Mayes, Managing Editor ◆ Gail Crutchfield, Community News Editor

◆ Rep. Richard Montgomery

◆ U.S. Sen. Bob Corker

1-800-449-8366 Ext. 1-5981; 207 War Memorial Bldg., Nashville TN 37243 rep.richard.montgomery@capitol.tn.gov

◆ Rep. Joe McCord

(202) 224-3344; Dirksen Senate Office Bldg., B40A, Washington, D.C. 20510

◆ U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander

(202) 224-4944; S/H 302, Washington, D.C. 20510

1-800-449-8366 Ext. 1-5481; 207 War Memorial Bldg., Nashville TN 37243 rep.joe.mccord@capitol.tn.gov

◆ U.S. Rep. Phil Roe

1-800-449-8366 Ext. 10981; 320 War Memorial Bldg., Nashville TN 37243 sen.doug.overbey@capitol.tn.gov

◆ U.S. Rep. John J. Duncan Jr.

◆ Sen. Doug Overbey

(202) 225-6356; 419 Cannon House Office, Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-5435; 2267 Rayburn Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20515

Sports

Visit: The Mountain Press.com View/Purchase Sports & News Photos

■ The Mountain Press ■ A8 ■ Monday, January 11, 2010

Bredesen: UT needs to clean up sports program CHATTANOOGA (AP) — The University of Tennessee needs to clean up the sports program after two recent incidents involving the arrest of student athletes, Gov. Phil Bredesen said. Bredesen, who is chairman of the UT Board of Trustees, told The Chattanooga Times Free Press he hopes to see improvement in the athletic program’s image. “I think it’s a realistic matter that UTK is going to continue to have an SEC-oriented sports program over time,” Bredesen said last week. “But I think they clearly have some cleaning up to do in the program. I’m hoping that will happen.” In November, two freshman football players were dismissed in connection with an alleged attempted robbery with a pellet gun. And three men’s basketball players were suspended and one was dis-

“I think it’s a realistic matter that UTK is going to continue to have an SEC-oriented sports program over time. But I think they clearly have some cleaning up to do in the program. I’m hoping that will happen.” — Gov. Phil Bredesen

missed after their arrest on Jan. 1 on misdemeanor gun and drug charges. The incidents have raised questions about whether future coaching and administrative contracts should include accountability for student athletes who run into trouble. UT’s coaching contracts, like most major college athletic programs, have incentives for academic accomplishments like GPAs, graduation rates and high scores on the NCAA’s annual Academic Progress Report rankings.

But UT men’s athletics director Mike Hamilton said he’s not aware of specific contract language that addresses player conduct. “Everything is on the table when you’re getting ready to negotiate — and ’negotiate’ implies exactly what it says,” he said. Hamilton said the recent arrests don’t reflect the standards of football coach Lane Kiffin and men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl. “That’s when it really tarnishes the program’s image, and it gives an indication

or impression to some that maybe this is how things are here, collectively,” he said. “And that’s just not the case.” He said that, in general, UT athletes are good kids. “They’re kids that have personality, and they’re trying to do the right things in class,” he said. “Do they mess up? Absolutely from time to time.” He said that an outside group could assess the culture and programs at other universities to make recommendations that might benefit Tennessee. “We need to ensure that we have a proper environment and are doing everything we can to instill the right type of culture and ethics,” he said. “When incidents like this happen ... it certainly causes concern with the alumni and parents, as well as students.” Bredesen didn’t state a preference when asked if coaching contracts should

Pats are patsies for Ravens

— UT men’s basketball coach Bruce Pearl

include language tied to student athlete behavior. “I don’t see what’s going on directly affecting the academics of the university, except insofar as it affects the reputation,” Bredesen said. “I think our interim (president) is doing a great job down there, but I think that stuff will get solved, with sports put into the proper context as time goes on.” Pearl, whose coaching career began in 1978, said the arrest of the four men’s basketball players was the first time he’d dealt with a situation involving weapons. “Obviously, there are some

cultures that exist that we have to deal with,” Pearl said. “Is there a weapons culture that exists or has existed? Is it more or less? This is new on me.” After the arrest of the football players, Kiffin instituted a new policy that prohibits players from bringing any form of gun to the university. “No firearms, no BB guns, no fake guns,” Hamilton said. “That (rule) may have transpired since the incident, but that’s his deal.” Also last week, the department adopted a “zero-tolerance” policy on weapons offenses.

SPORTS BRIEFS

Lady Vols rout Miss. State

STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Glory Johnson had a double-double by halftime and finished with 16 points and 15 rebounds to lead No. 4 Tennessee to an easy 75-48 win over Mississippi State on Sunday. It was the fifth straight win for the Volunteers (14-1, 2-0), who also got 16 from Angie Bjorklund and extended their streak in the Southeastern Conference’s most lopsided series. The Bulldogs (11-5, 1-1) still haven’t beaten Tennessee, dropping to 0-31 since the teams began playing in 1986. Johnson helped break the game open late in the first half with a personal 8-2 run against Mississippi State that included four layups. That run was part of a larger 19-7 spurt to finish the first half, leaving the Vols with a 39-18 lead and Johnson with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Alexis Rack led Mississippi State with 19. Mississippi State was coming off a 14-point upset of No. 17 Vanderbilt with some momentum and a three-game winning streak, but the Bulldogs missed 16 of their first 22 shots and never recovered.

By HOWARD ULMAN AP Sports Writer

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — From the very first play, Ray Rice and the running Ravens made the team of the last decade look like the pushovers of the new one. Rice burst up the middle for an 83-yard touchdown with frigid fans still settling into their seats, Tom Brady turned the ball over three times on the first four possessions and Baltimore knocked off New England 33-14 on Sunday in a stadium where the Patriots had never lost a playoff game. The Ravens (10-7) were only slight underdogs to the team that won three Super Bowls from 2002 through 2005. Now, if they beat Indianapolis next Saturday night, they’ll reach the AFC championship game for the second straight year as a wild-card team. The Patriots tried to rev up the crowd by sending Wes Welker onto the field on crutches with four teammates for the opening coin toss after he suffered a season-ending knee injury a week earlier at Houston. But with just 6:02 gone in the game and the Ravens leading 14-0, that crowd booed the team that hadn’t lost at home all season. By the end of the first quarter it was 24-0. Brady, the NFL Comeback Player of the Year, would have trouble overcoming that on his best day. Sunday was not one of them. Brady was 23 of 42 for 154 yards two touchdowns passing and three interceptions. The Patriots (10-7) received the second-half

“Obviously, there are some cultures that exist that we have to deal with. Is there a weapons culture that exists or has existed? Is it more or less? This is new on me.”

Report: Jeter to be marry next fall

NEW YORK (AP) — Admirers of Yankees most eligible bachelor Derek Jeter could be cheering a World Series victory in November — then mourning his marriage a few days later. The New York Post reports Sunday that the star shortstop and girlfriend Minka Kelly will be married Nov. 5 on Long Island. Acting on a tip, a reporter posing as a bride-to-be spotted an entry reading “JETER wedding” on the calendar for the Oheka Castle in Huntington, N.Y. Sales manager Rick Bellando insisted that a celebrity wouldn’t be listed under his real name when the reporter pointed it out. The Oheka Castle is the second-largest private residence in the United States and recently hosted the wedding of one of the Jonas Brothers. Associated Press

New England Patriots linebacker Pierre Woods (58) puts his hand on teammate Tom Brady’s helmet near the end of their 33-14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in an NFL wildcard playoff game in Foxborough, Mass., on Sunday. kickoff trailing 24-7. But Brady threw his third interception, matching his career playoff high, and Dawan Landry returned it 42 yards to set up Billy Cundiff’s 23-yard field goal that made it 27-7. Brady then threw his second touchdown pass to Julian Edelman, Welker’s replacement, covering 1 yard. But the Patriots’ defense kept parting in the path of the Ravens runners and Willis McGahee ran 3

yards with 10:32 left for a 33-14 lead. The Ravens, who lost the AFC championship game to Pittsburgh last year, will try to make up for a 17-15 loss to the Colts in Baltimore on Nov. 22. Since then, the Ravens are 5-2 after their threeman rushing attack of Rice, McGahee and Le’Ron McClain outran and overpowered the Patriots — gaining 236 yards on the ground with Rice leading

the way with 159. Rice ran for two touchdowns and McGahee and McClain one each on the Gillette Stadium turf where the Patriots had been outstanding. They were 8-0 this season, the only AFC team to go unbeaten at home. Brady was 7-0 in playoff games at Gillette. And they had won their last 11 home playoff games there and at Foxborough Stadium, since their last loss in 1978.

McNabb done in Philly?

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — For all their success together, all those division titles and playoff appearances over the past decade, Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb are measured by this in Philadelphia: No Super Bowl trophy. Strong favorites to make a championship run just eight days ago, the Eagles were quickly eliminated from the playoffs with a 34-14 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in an NFC wild-card game Saturday night. Now begins an offseason filled with uncertainty. The biggest question is whether McNabb will return. Reid isn’t going anywhere. The winningest coach in franchise history recently signed a three-year contract extension through 2013. But McNabb has just one year left on his deal, and it’s no longer unimaginable to think the Eagles could be ready to move on without the five-time Pro Bowl quarterback.

Skid stopped, Cowboys looking for long playoff run By JAIME ARON AP Sports Writer ARLINGTON, Texas — Their embarrassingly long wait between playoff wins is history, shredded to pieces alongside their December jinx. Now it’s time to consider something a lot more meaningful about the Dallas Cowboys, like how long this playoff run might last. A 34-14 victory over Philadelphia on Saturday night guarantees Dallas will play at least once more, in Minnesota on Sunday. Yet the way the Cowboys dominated the Eagles, and the way they’ve won their last

four games, suggest they are the team to beat in the NFC. “If we beat Minnesota, something special can happen here,” team owner Jerry Jones said. “I don’t know that we will, but there’s no reason why we can’t.” Dallas hasn’t trailed during its four-game surge and hasn’t been tied other than 0-0. The Cowboys are doing it with the basic formula for playoff success: a solid quarterback and a stingy defense. Tony Romo is putting up points early and often without making the careless mistakes that fueled those now-erased hexes. He has six touchdowns and two inter-

ceptions over the last four outings, putting up 24.8 points per game. He guided Dallas to a franchise playoffrecord 27 points in the second quarter Saturday night, putting the Cowboys well on the way to their NFL-record 33rd playoff win, but first since Dec. 28, 1996. Earlier this season, the offense piled up yards but not points. Lately, they’ve been getting the most out of their drives, a testament to offensive coordinator Jason Garrett having figured out how to blend the pass and run, and how to mix up his stable of running backs to keep defenses guessing.

Meanwhile, DeMarcus Ware and the defense are keeping offenses frustrated. Dallas has given up only 31 points the last 16 quarters, just four touchdowns in four games. And three of those games were against New Orleans and Philadelphia, the teams that scored the most and fifth-most points in the NFL this season. The Eagles had just 18 snaps in the decisive first half Saturday night, and they finished 2 of 11 on third downs. “There’s no miraculous answer,” nose tackle Jay Ratliff said. “It’s just people doing their job and everybody playing together.”

Coach Wade Phillips is also the defensive coordinator and he’s drawing lots of praise for his unit’s performance. What he hasn’t drawn is Jones’ guarantee of sticking around next season. That seems pretty moot, though, especially with Jones joking about it. “I’m superstitious,” he said, “and I wouldn’t want to touch anything that’s going pretty good.” Another key to postseason success is being healthy, and the Cowboys have that going for them, too. The only banged-up starter is running back Marion Barber, who lasted just three

carries against Philadelphia because he aggravated a knee injury. It wasn’t much of a problem, though, because running back might be Dallas’ deepest position. Felix Jones turned his increased workload into a career-high 146 yards, half coming on a 73-yard touchdown run that was the longest in franchise playoff history. Third-stringer Tashard Choice added another 42 yards and a touchdown. But he got knocked around pretty good one week after suffering a mild concussion, so his and Barber’s status will be worth watching over the coming days.

Nation â—† A9

Monday, January 11, 2010 â—† The Mountain Press

Cause with bite: Activists take on puppy mills By MICHAEL RUBINKAM Associated Press Writer RONKS, Pa. — Megan Anderson’s nerves are shot. But she presses ahead — the dogs need her. She pulls into the driveway of Scarlet-Maple Farm Kennel. She tells the adolescent boy who greets her that she’s looking for puppies to give to her nephews for Christmas. It’s a lie. A necessary one, Anderson thinks, but a lie nonetheless. That’s why she’s jittery. Will the boy swallow her story? How about the Amish man with the long gray beard, straw hat and plain dress — the kennel’s owner? Will he discover her ruse and chase her away? She hopes not. If all goes well, Anderson will leave with at least one dog, maybe more — and perhaps with evidence that could help put this kennel out of business for good. Over the past four years, Anderson — who works for Main Line Animal Rescue, a shelter outside of Philadelphia — has managed to coax some of Pennsylvania’s largest commercial breeding kennels to part with their unwanted canines, usually females past their reproductive prime or young males they couldn’t sell. Main Line’s founder, Bill Smith, would like to shut down Scarlet-Maple Farm Kennel and others like it. Smith and other animal welfare activists pushed for a new state law — regarded as the toughest in the nation — designed to end the inhumane treatment of breeding dogs in the large commercial kennels popularly known as puppy mills. Kennel owners say the law is unnecessary and too expensive to comply with, and that it is eliminating many good breeders along with the few bad apples. After listening to Anderson’s tale, the boy disappears into the kennel, leaving her to wait outside in the November chill. She knows the drill. Large operations like Scarlet-Maple rarely allow prospective buyers inside. They don’t want the public seeing how their breeding dogs live. ——— It’s no wonder. State regulators say the smell of a high-volume puppy mill is unforgettable, an overwhelming stench of urine and feces. Ammonia fumes burn the nose and eyes. The simultaneous barking of hundreds of dogs creates a wall of sound that makes it hard to think, let alone converse. Puppy mill dogs spend most of their working lives inside cramped wire cages, stacked one atop the other. Chapter 7 •

Associated Press

Kody, a Great Pyrenees breed dog that is up for adoption, walks in an open field during some outside time at Main Line Animal Rescue in Chester Springs, Pa., in November. They get little grooming, veterinary care or attention of any kind. Lacking a bone or toy to occupy their time, some dogs go into a frenzy every time they see a human. Other dogs circle endlessly. Still others just sit there, staring, like a “warm statue,� says Jessie Smith, special deputy secretary of dog law enforcement at the state Department of Agriculture. Breeders often act as their own vets, performing delicate surgical procedures — docking tails, “debarking� dogs by hacking at the vocal cords, performing Caesarean sections on pregnant females. The lack of medical training can have disastrous results. Main Line recently took in a critically ill boxer with a mummified puppy in her belly, the apparent result of a botched Caesarean. She was rushed to the hospital with bleeding and a severe infection. The physical wounds, horrific as they may be, are treatable. Tougher to heal are the psychological ones. Bill Smith says the volunteers at Main Line spend weeks or even months working with rescued dogs so they can be adopted. “Every day it must be so difficult for them to try new things, especially when they’re 7 or 8 years old and they’ve spent their entire lives in a box in a dark barn,� says Smith, 48. All of this has contributed to Pennsylvania’s sordid reputation as the puppy mill capital of the East Coast. It’s an image that state lawmakers and Gov. Ed Rendell are working to shed. In 2008, Rendell signed off on strict health and safety standards for large breeding operations. Key provisions that went into effect in October required large-scale breeders to double cage sizes, eliminate wire flooring and provide unfettered access to exercise. The new law also banned cage stacking, insti-

Associated Press

Nukka , left, a female and Kodiak, a male, both rescued miniature American Eskimo dogs now owned by Todd and Dorothy Grasle are seen in Portland, Ore.. These two were part of a May 2009 rescue of a puppy mill in Kennewick, Wash. tuted twice-a-year vet checks, and mandated new ventilation and cleanliness standards. Between the new legislation, the bad economy, and heightened public awareness — the state has established a tip line, and Bill Smith persuaded Oprah Winfrey to do a show on puppy mills — pressure is building on multiple fronts against people like Daniel Esh, the owner of Scarlet-Maple. ——— The boy returns with three dogs. They cost $500, $400 and $300, he says. Too rich for Megan Anderson’s blood. “Do you have anything cheaper?� she asks. The boy goes back to the kennel. This time he brings her two small dogs, offering both for a discounted price of $250. At 5 months, they’re too old to sell as puppies, he explains. He tells Anderson they would make a good breeding pair. Deal, she says. It’s an unusual transaction. Main Line almost never buys animals from puppy mills. But it will purchase a dog as part of a cruelty investigation. If these dogs show signs they have been mistreated, Main Line will take them to the PSPCA to determine whether charges can be filed. A cruelty conviction could result in the

DONE RIGHT AUTOMOTIVE

BANKRUPTCY • Chapter 13

865-908-7814

Open Sat. by Appt. Hours: Mon-Fri FREE TOWING W/REPAIR 8:30am to 5:30pm COMPLETE AUTO RV MOTOR HOME AND TRAVEL REPAIR

FREE CONSULTATION / PAYMENT PLANS STOP:

RELIEF:

FORECLOSURES

SAVE HOME-AUTO

LAWSUITS / COLLECTIONS

GET A FRESH START

OIL, LUBE & FILTER

REPOSSESSIONS DEBT

ELIMINATE & CONSOLIDATE

PAYCHECK GARNISHMENT

DEBT

Most U.S. cars. Not valid with other coupons or specials.

CREDITOR CALLS

SPECIALIZING IN REBUILDING ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS

$ 97

Most U.S. cars. Not valid with other coupons or specials.

Disposal Fee $2.00

Catherine B. Sandifer, Esq. admitted in Tennessee & Florida

44

$

DISCPADS OR BRAKE SHOES

1997 $1897

$

Labor not included. Semi-metalic pads extra. Most U.S. cars. Not valid

2 Wheels with other coupons or specials.

BRAKE MAINTENANCE

4 Cyl., 6 Cyl., 8 Cyl

Replace plugs, check engine, check fluids, check timing when applicable

www.GoBankruptToday.com “We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy under the Bankruptcy Code�

7

HEATER CHECK-UP

TUNE-UPS

(865) 428-5263

320 Wears Valley Road Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

loss of Daniel Esh’s federal dealer’s license, hasten the removal of his dogs, and prevent him from simply joining his father’s kennel business, which is operated on the same compound, Smith says. As Anderson and the boy talk, a middle-aged man guides his horse-drawn buggy into the driveway. Esh climbs off his rig and strides toward them. His business is already on the verge of collapse. State inspectors combing through Esh’s kennel found dogs with lameness, lesions, dehydration and dental disease; puppies’ paws falling through wire flooring; excrement in food dishes. Esh pleaded guilty in January 2009 to three summary violations of the dog law and subsequently lost his state kennel license. That means he can no longer breed dogs — though he can continue selling the ones in his kennel — and must reduce his kennel population to 25 dogs or less, down from more than 500 as recently as two years ago. Inspectors planned to visit Esh in January to make sure he has complied. Esh denies ever mistreating his dogs, telling The Associated Press in a later interview that he has fallen

97 & up

Inspection, bleed & flush, brake adjustment

AND ,ANDSCAPING

All Types of Fencing:

s 3TUMP 'RINDING s ,AND #LEARING s 'UTTER #LEANING s ,EAF 2EMOVAL

s #HAIN ,INK &ENCES !LL 4YPES OF &ENCING s &RENCH $RAINS s 2ETAINING 7ALLS s 7OOD 0RIVACY &ENCES s "OBCAT 7ORK #HAIN ,INK &ENCES s 7OOD 0RIVACY &ENCES s 0ICKET &ENCES s 4REE 3HRUB 4RIMMING s 0ICKET &ENCES s !LL 9OUR ,AWN #ARE .EEDS ,ANDSCAPE $ESIGN AND )NSTALLATION

(Monthly Billing can be arranged!)

865-254-3844 !LL WORK GUARANTEED ,ICENSED )NSURED

Most U.S. cars

.EWPORT (WY "LDG 5NIT # s 3EVIERVILLE

STANLEY FENCING 34!.,%9 &%.#).' and Landscaping Now Accepting Mowing Contracts for 2010

Starting at

2497

$

victim to a radical political agenda that seeks the end of commercial dog breeding in Pennsylvania and across the nation. “The dogs were feeding my family. They were helping me keep my farm. And we enjoyed it,� says Esh, who has been selling dogs for 21 years. “If (activists and politicians) had any idea how many lives they hurt by doing this, I don’t think they would sleep at night. ... I feel like we as breeders are doomed.� Manycommercialbreeding kennels in Pennsylvania are run by Amish and Mennonite farmers in Lancaster County. With milk prices in freefall, dairy farmers have increasingly relied on dog breeding to help pay the bills, selling to pet stores or directly to the public via the Internet. Like Esh and many other breeders, Edwin Zeiset, 34, blames the new regulations for ruining his livelihood. Zeiset says he operated a clean kennel and had many repeat customers. But he recently shut down his EZ Puppies kennel rather than spend tens of thousands of dollars on a big new building. He’s not alone: Nearly four out of every 10 commercial kennels in Pennsylvania told the state they would be closed by the end of December. “The animal activists come out of the cities and tell us exactly how they want things done,� even though “there’s no science to it,� says Zeiset, a third-generation dairy farmer who estimates his income will drop by half with the loss of the kennel. If there are breeders who mistreat dogs, he says, target them. Bill Smith has heard such talk before. He says he’s not out to ruin the lives of kennel owners. He just wants to improve the lives of their dogs. ——— Anderson holds back tears as she plants a kiss on the head of a black-and-white, poodle-bichon mix. Daniel

Esh believed her story. “New life, guys. New life,� she murmurs from the back seat of a gray SUV. “No breeding for you guys. Sorry.� As the SUV pulls away from Scarlet-Maple, she clutches the dogs tightly to her chest. They are filthy and fetid. Anderson meets up with Smith, who has been waiting in a parking lot a few miles away, and loads the dogs into a crate in the back of Smith’s SUV. Mission accomplished, it’s off to the next puppy mill, and the next, and the next. By nightfall, Main Line has visited five kennels and retrieved 12 dogs. Back at the shelter, Anderson tests the pooches for parvo, a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease. Exams reveal the puppies from Scarlet-Maple have ear infections and intestinal parasites; two poodles from a kennel near the tiny village of Georgetown likewise need deworming. It’s clear that none of these dogs have been groomed in a long time, if ever. Their fur is dirty and matted, their nails long, their ears filled with muck. But these, in fact, are lucky dogs. They’ve made it out. ——— The dogs are spayed and neutered, treated for their ailments, and adopted out. Compared to dogs previously taken from Scarlet-Maple, these pooches — both designer mixes — are in good shape. And they’re friendly. No evidence of animal cruelty. The poodles from Georgetown, rescued the same day, will require a lot more work to prepare them for life outside the mill. Nearly two weeks after their rescue, the poodles — dubbed Mr. White and Mrs. White — are still very skinny, they haven’t been eating, and they’re terrified of humans. None of this fazes Mary Remer, a renowned trainer and behaviorist who works with the dogs of Main Line Animal Rescue. She’s seen plenty of puppy mill dogs in far worse straits that have wound up as great family pets. It just takes time and patience, she says. And plenty of love. Indeed, by the end of a 45-minute “shy dog� class, Mrs. White is walking, not hopping. Mr. White, an older dog, remains cradled in a volunteer’s arms, still too frightened to be put down. But he is blinking normally and taking stock of his surroundings; his nose twitches, a sign his olfactory senses are awakening. It’s not a lot, but it’s something. “It’s a beginning,� Remer says.

!LL WORK GUARANTEED ,ICENSED )NSURED s .OW ACCEPTING ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS

,)&%4)-% 7!22!.49 !6!),!",% /. !,, "2!+% 7/2+ s #/-0,%4% !54/ 2%0!)2 !4 2%!3/.!",% 02)#%3

Smoky Crossing s 0ETS 7ELCOME s 7ALKING 4RAIL s (OUR &ITNESS #ENTER s 7Il AT 0OOL AND #LUBHOUSE

$150 Off Offer Yourexpires First Months Rent Feb. 3, 2010. Where you live does matter WWW 3MOKY#ROSSING COM s

(ROZEN 9ATER 2IPES +NSULATE 9ATER .INES +NSULATION

s 4ERMITE $AMAGE s -OISTURE $AMAGE

s 3AGGING &LOORS s #LEAN #RAWLSPACE 0ROGRAM

&OR ALL YOUR CRAWLSPACE NEEDS s ,ICENSED )NSURED

12 ‹ Classifieds

The Mountain Press ‹ Monday, January 11, 2010

Legals 100 Announcements

600 Rentals

200 Employment

700 Real Estate

300 Services

800 Mobile Homes

400 Financial

900 Transportation

110 SPECIAL NOTICES

Classifieds Corrections

110 SPECIAL NOTICES

Unauthorized use of The Mountain Press tubes for circulars or any other advertisement authorizes a minimum $250 charge for which the advertiser will be billed.

After the first insertion, want ads scheduled to be published again on Tue., Wed., Thu., or Fri. may be canceled or corrected between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. on the day prior to publication. For ads on Sat., due Thu. prior to 3 p.m.; for Sun., Fri. prior to 10 a.m. and Mon., prior to 11 a.m. Notice of typographical or other errors must be given before 2nd insertion. The Mountain Press does not assume responsibility for an ad beyond the cost of the ad itself and shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad for a typographical error.

Deadlines

Edition Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Good News in the Smokies

Deadline Friday, 10 a.m. Friday, 11 a.m. Monday, 10 a.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m. Thursday, 10 a.m.

Online

does not recommend or endorse any product, service or company. For more information and assistance regarding the investigation of FINANCING, BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AND WORK AT HOME OPPORTUNITIES, this newspaper urges its readers to contact the Better Business Bureau, 2633 Kingston Pike, Suite 2, Knoxville, TN 37919, Phone (865)692-1600.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED If you submit a photo for publication, please pick it up after it runs in the paper within ONE MONTH of publication date. Our photo files will be discarded each month. Thank You!

http://www.themountainpress.com OR, www.adquest.com All line ads published in The Mountain Press are placed FREE on a searchable network of over 500 newspapers’ classifieds located at http://www.themountainpress.com. WANT TO KNOW WHEN A CLASSIFIED ITEM IS AVAILABLE? Go to http://www.adquest/request/ to register your request and we will notify you by e-mail when it becomes available in the Classifieds.

Edition

Deadline

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Good News In The Smokies

Friday, 10 a.m. Friday, 11 a.m. Monday, 10 a.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m.

236 GENERAL to become an Account Executive . Salary position with benefits. Email resume to jay@vgnet.com

Cove Mountain Resorts has the following positions open: Cabin Cleaner/ Housekeeper This is a contract position which requires applicant to provide their own transportation and vehicle insurance. Hotel/Cabin cleaning experience preferred. Applicant must be self motivated, detail oriented. Reservations Clerk This position requires: Excellent communication skills, experience in the hospitality industry a plus. Please stop by to fill out application at 3202 Wears Valley Rd. located in the Century 21 office building. No phone calls please.

238 HOTEL/MOTEL

Associate Account Executive Regional publishing company seeks a f/t sales position. Duties include advertising sales, production and merchandising of area Visitors Guide Magazines and hospitality products. Territory includes the High Country area of NC. Position is ideal for college graduates and serves as training

105 YARD & TREE SERVICES

307 CHILDCARE Babysitting home. 3359.

356 STORAGE BUILDINGS

10X10 or 10X20 SELF STORAGE Convenient Location! 411 South, left on Robert Henderson Rd., 1/4 mil on right at Riverwalk Apts.

429-2962

Laurel Crest, A Bluegreen Resort, Seeking Full-Time Front Desk Supervisor. Weekends a must. Please apply in person at: Laurel Crest Resort, 2628 Laurel Crest Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN.

500 MERCHANDISE

Firewood for sale. All hardwood. $45 rick. 865-977-8903 589 FURNITURE 1943 Hutch buffet beveled mirror cherry wood. Unique pieces. 437-8868

2 new recliners $398 Cagles Furniture & Appliances 2364B Pittman Center Rd.

453-0727

Call

428-0746

106 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

IMPROVEMENT

Quality Work - Reasonable Prices

• Carpentry • Electrical • • Plumbing • Kitchens • • Bathrooms • Painting •

FIREWOOD

Licensed & Insured

Call Ty 368-2361

REACH more buyers with the Classifieds.

McKinney Lawn Service New Years Special Landscaping, French Drain All Drain work, Bobcat work All your yard service needs. !LL ODD JOBS s 1UALITY 7ORK Senior Discounts

654-9078

$169.77+ Family Inns West

Pigeon Forge 865-453-4905 •

693 ROOMS FOR RENT

Shop at 1605 #2 Winfield Dunn Pkwy $500 mth. Call 453-3958 between 8am-5pm. Monday-Friday

DOWNTOWN SEVIERVILLE

428 Park Rd. near trolley stop CHEAP$100 weekly Includes All Utilities. Cable, Laundry, Kitchens, Clean Rooms, NO PETS.

800-359-8913

696 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

If you have a problem with the delivery of your morning Mountain Press, please call the Circulation Department at 428-0746, ext. 239 & 231 Monday - Friday and your paper will be delivered to you on the same day. Newspapers from calls after 10:00 a.m. will be delivered with the next day’s paper. On Saturday, Sunday and holidays you may dial 428-0748 extensions 239 & 231. If complaints are received between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., papers will be delivered the same day. Newspapers from calls received after 10:00 a.m. will be delivered with the next day’s paper. This applies to in-county home delivery only. Sevier County’s Only Daily Newspaper

865-932-2613 3BR 2BA Gat. $850 mth. W/D hkup. Kit appl. 865-3862512 693 ROOMS FOR RENT

Affordable Housing in Gatlinburg

NICE, CLEAN 1 BR / 1 BA IN SEVIERVILLE $380.00 + DEPOSIT NO PETS 865-712-5238

! " " # ! "!

Rooms for rent, weekly rates, furn., cable TV, same rent all year.

436-4471 or 621-2941

453-0727

KELLY’S HOME

865-254-3844 Lic & Insured

Includes Phone, Color TV, Wkly Housekeeping Micr./Frig. Available

Who ya gonna call?

For Sale

105 YARD & TREE SERVICES

Stanley

Weekly Rentals

A-1 pre-owned dryers, washers, ranges & refrigerators All with warranty. Cagles Furniture and Appliances

4REE 3PECIALIST

2700 sq ft Office/Warehouse in Sevierville. Heated and Cooled. 256-4809 or 698-6042

NEW YEARS SPECIAL

To The Classifieds!

693 ROOMS FOR RENT

Notice of typographical or other errors must be given before 2nd insertion. The Mountain Press does not assume responsibility for an ad beyond the cost of the ad itself and shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad for a typographical error.

2 & 3 BR duplexes for rent in Kodak.

Willow Brook Lodge is seeking to hire a dependable person to work in our Maintenance Dept. Apply in Person at Willow Brook Lodge 3035 Parkway, Pigeon Forge

Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Clean up Leaf Removal

605 BUSINESS RENTALS

All line ads published in The Mountain Press are placed FREE on a searchable network of over 500 newspapers’ classifieds located at http://www.themountainpress.com WANT TO KNOW WHEN A CLASSIFIED ITEM IS AVAILABLE? Go to http://www.adquest/request/ to register your request and we will notify you by e-mail when it becomes available in the Classifieds.

After the first insertion, want ads scheduled to be published again on Tue., Wed., Thu., or Fri. may be canceled or corrected between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. on the day prior to publication. For ads on Sat., due Thu., prior to 3 p.m., for Sun., Fri., prior to 10 a.m. and Mon., prior to 11 a.m.

610 DUPLEX FOR RENT

People d Respon

A publication from The Mountain Press

Retail shops in The Village shopping center downtown Gatlinburg. 865-4363995 or 803-5950

in my 865-724-

Corrections

http://www.themountainpress.com OR, www.adquest.com

Thursday, 10 a.m.

556 FIREWOOD Local cabin company taking applications for Reservationist, Assistant Manager, and Cleaners. Apply in person at: 333 Ski Mtn. Rd. Gatlinburg.

236 GENERAL

Online

Deadlines

500 Merchandise

106 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

106 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Coplen Construction Home repairs, Remodeling Additions, Elect, Plumbing, Kitchen, Bath, Painting, Flooring Big or Small, we do it all Licensed & Insure

Professional Painter for hire

C B Builders Experienced local carpenter Does all types remodeling Additions & Repairs Licensed & Insured

Phone Sam 865-453-6811

Call Conley Whaley 428-2791 or 919-7340(cell)

106 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

DCC Construction

Residential & Commercial s .EW #ONSTRUCTION s 2EMODELING s 2OOlNG s #ONCRETE s #ARPENTRY s $ECKS Licensed & Insured 865-360-4352

115 ROOFING SERVICES

B &W

1st class guaranteed work. Over 25 yrs. exp.

Call Carl 865-654-6691

106 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BIG DAD’S Home Service All Types of Home building repairs. Need it Done Call

865-654-7648 or 865-475-7628

117 ELECTRICAL

Kitchens, Bath, Decks,Windows, Doors, Trim, Sheetrock, Painting, Plumbing & Electrical, Vinyl & Laminate Flooring ALL REPAIRS 24 HOUR

865-740-7102 755-0178

111 HOME & OFFICE CLEANING

115 ROOFING SERVICES

House Cleaning s %XPERIENCED s (ONEST s 2ELIABLE Free Estimate. 0LEASE CALL OR 577-1295

Sevier County RooďŹ ng Quality Work s 3HINGLES s -ETAL s 7OOD 3HAKE *Senior Discounts *10 yr Warranty

Free Estimates countyrooďŹ ngcorp.com 865-236-2698

Find BIG Savings... When You Place Your Ad in the Classifieds!

Call

Working for peanuts?

Find your perfect job in

428-0746 Classifieds.

Classifieds ‹ 13

The Mountain Press ‹ Monday, January 11, 2010 696 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

696 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

"

!

1 & 2 BR Apt. From $395. Water/Sewer Inc. Patio Mtn Views. 908-2062

1Br Apt in Sevierville. $400 a month. Utilities ncluded. 2564809

SWEEP up with the Classifieds.

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN SEVIERVILLE 2 bedroom 1.5 bath townhomes Call 428-5161

696 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

(incl. water & sewer.)

865-908-6789

LEGALS SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given that by authority of a Credit Line Deed of Trust (Deed of Trust) executed by Eric R. Kelch and wife, Leslie J. Kelch, to Dwight B. Grizzell, Trustee, dated May 12, 2006, and recorded in Book 2534, Page 312 in the Register s Office for Sevier County, Tennessee, to secure the indebtedness due from Eric P. Kelch and Leslie J. Kelch to Mountain National Bank, which has become due and payable by virtue of default in the Deed of Trust on the property hereinafter described; and Mountain National Bank, the true and lawful owner and holder of said indebtedness, having exercised its option to declare the indebtedness due and payable and having made demand for foreclosure pursuant to the Deed of Trust; I, the undersigned, acting under the authority of the Deed of Trust, by virtue of appointment as substitute trustee, in Book 3460 Page 55 in the Register s Office for Sevier County, Tennessee, will be at the front door of the Sevier County Courthouse, 125 Court Avenue, Sevierville, Tennessee on the 19th day of January, 2010, at 3:00 p.m. to sell to the highest bidder for cash in bar of all rights waived by said Deed of Trust, the following described property to-wit Which is believed to have a street address of 990 Autumn Ridge Way Sevierville, TN 37876

Townhouse close to hospital. New carpet. $600 month. Small Pets ok. 865-384-4054 or 865-384-1054

December 28, 2009 and January 4 and 11, 2010

697 CONDO RENTALS 1 Bedroom condo for rent; includes water, cable and wifi. $695/mo. + deposit. No pets. 9081342

3 BD / 2 BA 4 MILES FROM EXIT 407 $700/MONTH & DEPOSIT. NO PETS. 865-712-5238, 865-705-9096

3BR 2BA in Red Bud Subdivision. Appliances included. $750 & up + deposit. 428-5212

in Sevierville Offers 1/2 BR Units Pet Friendly

Nice Homes in Kodak.

PIGEON FORGE

2 BR 1 BA $385 2BR 2BA $465

2BD/2BA APARTMENT

New Center 3BR/2BA Garage, Pet Friendly

Sevierville 5BD/4.5BA Fully furnished, w/hot tub, washer, dryer, etc.

Wears Valley 1BD/1.5BA Pet Friendly

EFFICIENCIES All utilities included

2BR 1BA apt. $595 mth Call 428-1514.

Gatlinburg Beautiful 2BR 2BA Furnished Condo with Fireplace, Overlooks stocked trout stream and has heated pool. Walk to downtown Gatlinburg, includes water, cable, Flat screen TV. Immediate occupancy, Minimum 1 Year lease $875 mth. 865-771-9600 Pigeon Forge behind Ruby Tuesday 2br 2ba Immaculate. No pets. $700 mth. 1st. last & sec. Call 865-712-8333. 698 MOBILE HOME RENTALS

2BR 2BA triplex PF. 2BR apt Sev. No pets. Clean & convenient. 453-5079. 2BR appliances furnished $600 a month. By month or week $500 security 654-7127 or 748-7946 Beautiful Newly redecorated 2BR 1BA. Sevierville $575, $400 dep. 712-0254. CROSSCREEK 2BR/1.5BA $545 2BR/2BA Large Garden apartment $570.00 to $580.00 865-429-4470

OPEN HOUSE 12 Homes to view

RENT NO MORE! RENTERS, LET YOUR RENT BE YOUR DOWN PAYMENT! ONLY 10 HOMES LEFT

Large 1BR apt 4536758 or 207-5700.

865-453-0086

McCarter’s Efficiency Apts 221 Newman Rd, $420 month everything except power and phone. Gatlinburg. Call 865-850-2542 or 865-436-5489.

2BR 2BA mobile home Central H/A Water & sewer furn. on Hwy 66 near Swaggertys Sausage. 933-5509 or 755-2402

Each has C H/A, deck appliances. No pets.

865-368-6602 3 BR 2 BA house for rent with carport.

Boyds Creek Community $600 mth $600 damage deposit.

850-5700 3BR 1.5BA Newly renovated. Sevierville. Garage. $950 mth + dep. 654-0222. 3BR 2BA Fully furn. On lake. $850 mth $500 dep. 865654-4003 4BR/2BA Furnished. Traffic Light #6 in Pigeon Forge. Credit References and Deposit Required. $1250 mth. 770-983-0698 For rent: 2BR house $400 mth $400 dep. No pets. Suitable for small family. Call 453-3958 between 8am-5pm. For Rent: 3BR House. Gatlinburg. Call 436-4748 Great Location. 2 blocks from WalMart Sevierville 313 Lynn Dr. 3BR 1.5BA home. Immaculate. Laundry room with W/D. Quiet neighborhood, large yard, carport, city water, sewer & garbage pick up, central H/A. 1 year lease. $850 mth. 1st, last & $300 sec. dep. No pets/smoking. Call 429-1335 or 654-6623

LEGALS

Sale at public auction will be on January 26, 2010 at 12:00 PM Eastern Standard Time, at the front door, Sevier County Courthouse, Sevierville, Tennessee pursuant to Deed of Trust executed by Richard David Hubbs, a single man to First American Title Insurance Co. of NY, Trustee, on January 26, 2007 at Book Volume 2727, Page 312conducted by Shapiro & Kirsch, LLP Substitute Trustee, all of record in the Sevier County Register s Office. Owner of Debt: Southstar III, LLC The following real estate located in Sevier County, Tennessee, will be sold to the highest call bidder subject to all unpaid taxes, prior liens and encumbrances of record: Described property located in the Eleventh (11th) Civil District of Sevier County, Tennessee, in the City of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to wit:Lot 31, Block M, Section 4, Tyrolea Subdivision, as shown on plat of record in Map Book 13, Page 38, in the Register s Office for Sevier County, Tennessee, to which plat specific reference is hereby made for a more particularly description, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an existing iron rod at the common corner of the subject property and Lot 8, said rod being along the Western edge of a cul-desac in the 50 foot right-of-way for “Heiden Court�; thence from the point of beginning, and leaving the line of said cul-de-sac, and with the line of the said Lot 8, South 66 degrees 14 minutes 00 seconds East, passing through the common corner of the subject property and the said Lot 8 and Lot 23, 168.39 feet to a new iron rod at the common corner of the subject property and Lot 23 and Lot 3; thence leaving the line of the said Lot 23, and with the line of said Lot 30, South 70 degrees 25 minutes 35 seconds West, 132.04 feet to an existing iron rod at the common corner of the subject property and the said Lot 30 and Lot 34, South 62 degrees 06 minutes 33 seconds West 108.29 feet to an existing iron rod at the common corner of the subject property and the said Lot 34 and the subject Lot 32; thence North 08 degrees 25 minutes 21 seconds East 141.35 feet to a new iron rod at the common corner of the subject property and the subject Lot 32, said rod being along the of the southern edge of said cul-de-sac; thence leaving the line of said Lot 32, and with the line of the said cul-de-sac, and curving in a concave posture, with an arc of 55.01 feet and a radius of 40.0 feet, North 63 degrees 09 minutes 19 seconds East, 50.78 feet to the point of beginning.LESS AND EXCEPT the following property being conveyed to the City of Gatlinburg: BEGINNING on an iron pin in the margin of a 40 foot cul-de-sac in Zurich Court, a corner to Lots 30 and 34, Block M, Section 4 of Tyrolea Subdivision; thence with the arc of the cul-de-sac and Lot 30 and a curve to the right having a radius of 40 feet, a distance of 66.14 feet to an iron pin, a corner to Lots 29 and 30; thence with a curve to the left having a radius of 68.55 feet, a distance of 44.68 feet to a point; thence North 25 degrees 53 minutes West 24.93 feet to the point of beginning. Street Address: 904 Heiden Court Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Current Owner(s) of Property: Richard David Hubbs, a single man The street address of the above described property is believed to be 904 Heiden Court, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, but such address is not part of the legal description of the property sold herein and in the event of any discrepancy, the legal description herein shall control. SALE IS SUBJECT TO TENANT(S) RIGHTS IN POSSESSION. All right of equity of redemption, statutory and otherwise, and homestead are expressly waived in said Deed of Trust, and the title is believed to be good, but the undersigned will sell and convey only as Substitute Trustee. The right is reserved to adjourn the day of the sale to another day, time, and place certain without further publication, upon announcement at the time and place for the sale set forth above. If the highest bidder cannot pay the bid within twenty-four (24) hours of the sale, the next highest bidder, at their highest bid, will be deemed the successful bidder. This property is being sold with the express reservation that the sale is subject to confirmation by the lender or trustee. This sale may be rescinded at any time. This office is a debt collector. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Shapiro & Kirsch, LLP Substitute Trustee Law Office of Shapiro & Kirsch, LLP 6055 Primacy Parkway, Suite 410 Memphis, TN 38119 Phone 901-767-5566 Fax 901-767-8890 File No. 08-001138

NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S SALE TENNESSEE, SEVIER COUNTY DEFAULT having been made in the terms, conditions and payments provided in certain Deed of Trust executed by Daniel Houston Howell and Wendi Kay Parker and Mary E. Howell to Robert M. Wilson, Trustee dated June 9, 2006 in the amount of $168,000.00, and recorded in the Register s Office of Sevier County, Tennessee in Deed Book 2555, Page 607, (“Deed of Trustâ€?); and, the beneficial interest of said Deed of Trust having been last transferred to Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as trustee of MASTR 2007-01 by assignment; and, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as trustee of MASTR 2007-01, as the current owner and holder of said Deed of Trust (the “Owner and Holderâ€?), has appointed as Substitute Trustee the undersigned, Patrick A. Taggart, Laura A. Grifka, Sidney A. Gelernter, or J. Michael Dugan, any of whom may act, by instrument filed for record in the Register s Office of Sevier County, Tennessee with all the rights, powers and privileges of the original Trustee named in said Deed of Trust; therefore, NOTICE is hereby given that the entire amount of said indebtedness has been declared due and payable as provided in said Deed of Trust by the Owner and Holder, and the undersigned as Substitute Trustee, or a duly appointed attorneys or agents, by virtue of the power and authority vested by the Appointment of Substitute Trustee, will on Thursday, January 21, 2010 commencing at 12:00 PM at the front steps of the Sevier County Courthouse in Sevierville, Tennessee; sell to the highest bidder for cash, immediately at the close of sale, the following property to-wit: Land in Sevier County, Tennessee, being all of Lot No. 63, on the Plan of River Vista, Phase II, as shown on plat of record in Large Map Book 5, Page 157, in the Registers Office for Sevier County, Tennessee, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Being the same property conveyed to Daniel Houston Howell and Wendi Kay Parker and Mary E. Howell, as joint tenants by Deed of record in Book 2170, Page 728 recorded 2/8/2005, Registers Office for Sevier County, Tennessee. Map & Parcel No.: 16IA63 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1975 River Vista Circle Sevierville, Tennessee 37876 CURRENT OWNER(S): Daniel Houston Howell and Wendi Kay Parker and Mary E. Howell SUBORDINATE LIENHOLDERS: America`s Servicing Company OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES: N/A All right and equity of redemption, statutory or otherwise, homestead, and dower are expressly waived in said Deed of Trust, and the title is believed to be good, however, the undersigned will sell and convey only as Substitute Trustee. The sale will be held subject to any unpaid taxes, assessments, rightsof-way, easements, protective covenants or restrictions, liens, and other superior matters of record which may affect said property; as well as any prior liens or encumbrances as well as priority created by a fixture filing; and/or any matter that an accurate survey of the premises might disclose. If the U.S. Department of Treasury/IRS, the State of Tennessee Department of Revenue, or the State of Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development are listed as Interested Parties in the advertisement, then the Notice of this foreclosure is being given to them and the sale will be subject to the applicable governmental entities` right to redeem the property, as required by 26 U.S.C Ă&#x; 7425 and T.C.A. Ă&#x; 67-1-1433. The sale will be conducted subject (1) to confirmation that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) to final confirmation and audit of the status of the loan with the holder of the Deed of Trust. Substitute Trustee reserves the right to adjourn the day of the sale to another day, time and place certain without further publication, upon announcement at the time and place for the sale set forth above. THIS LAW FIRM IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Patrick A. Taggart, Laura A. Grifka, Sidney A. Gelernter, or J. Michael Dugan McCurdy & Candler, L.L.C. (404) 373-1612 www.mccurdycandler.com File No. 09-17145 /CONV December 2 8, 2009 and January 4 and 11, 2010

January 4, 11 and 18, 2010

Great Pigeon Forge location. 3bd, 1ba home w/FP. $850 monthly + deposit. 1 yr lease. 3859530

SILO APARTMENTS

LEGALS

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S SALE

New Homes for Rent. 3BR/2BA starting at $700 - $850 & $1000 per month. No pets. 865-850-3874

Home for Rent. 2 BR/2BA, Flatcreek Rd, gorgeous view, hardwood flrs, washer/dryer, nice for retired couple, $575, 1st & last. 908-0704 House 2BR Close to Sevierville. Sewer & water furnished. C/H. W/D hook up. $600 + dep. No pets. 453-9269 or 382-1966 House for rent off 338 Douglas Dam Rd 3BR 2BA. 1 bedroom is very large. Stove, fridge, dishwasher, yard maintenance & pest control included. $850 mth 1st & last required + $500 damage dep. Absolutely no pets. References needed. Call 865-4284752 Mon-Fri 8-4 Newport 3BR 1BA unfinished basement. $700 mth $500 dep. 865-696-9993 Sevierville Doublewide 2BR $500 mth + deposit. No pets. Ref. 933-6544 Seymour Hinkle Sub 3BR 2BA $975 mth. + dep. 6801032

710 HOMES FOR SALE **Home For Sale** Historic Neighborhood in Downtown Sevierville. Close to all schools.710 3BR/1.5 bath. 6547907 ************************** 721 COMMERCIAL PROPERTY Building for lease formerly Creekside Wedding Chapel. Parkway Gatlinburg 850-2004.

829 MANUFACTURED HOME SALES

NEW HOME

Log Cabins on Hwy 321 S. for lease Business and or business living quarters. Call Cheryl 865-3688640.

1900 Sq. Feet 1/2 Acre-Ready Easy- Loan by Phone 865-453-0086

Space for lease in climate control storage area. Hwy 321 East Gatlinburg. 850-2487.

First Time Buyers Your Job is Your Credit New Single Wides & Double Wides CREDIT HOTLINE 865-453-0086

722 BUSINESS BUILDINGS 4 office rentals + large garage. S. Blvd Way $249,000. 933-6544

Office Space for Rent 119 South Blvd Way. Formerly used as Beauty Shop 933-6544

s 3PACIOUS "EDROOMS s 7ASHER $RYER (OOKUPS s #EILING &ANS s &ULLY %QUIPPED +ITCHEN

s #LUB (OUSE s 3WIMMING 0OOL s -INI "LINDS s 0ETS !SK

-+1 -,

2IVER #OUNTRY !PARTMENTS

/LD .EWPORT (WY 3EVIERVILLE 4.

1

THOMAS H. DICKENSON Substitute Trustee Hodges, Doughty & Carson P. O. Box 869 Knoxville, Tennessee 37901 (865) 292-2307

BIG BROKER BOB’s REALTY 865-774-5919

RIVERWALK 1BR/1BA TO 2BR/2BA $545.00 to $695.00 865-429-2962

699 HOME RENTALS

SITUATED in the First (1st) Civil District of Sevier County, Tennessee and being L ot 8 of Autumn Ridge Estates as the same is shown by plat of record in Map Book 34, Page 147, in the Sevier County, Tennessee, Register s Office to which reference is hereby made for particular description. BEING a part of the same property conveyed to Eric R. Kelch, et ux, by deeds of record in Book 1462, Page 642; Book 1462, Page 644; and Book 1615, Page 442, in the Register s Office to which reference is hereby made for further title. LESS AND EXCEPT any portion of the above-described property previously conveyed to Mountain National Bank by Trustee s Deed from Sykes & Wynn, PLLC, Trustee, dated August 13, 2009, and of record in Book 3403, Page 305, Register s Office for Sevier County, Tennessee. The right is reserved to adjourn the day of the sale to another day and time certain, without further publication and in accordance with law, upon announcement of such adjournment on the day and at the time and place of sale as set forth above. A-1 Block & Brick, LLC and Aggregates USA, LLC f/d/b/a Rinker Materials South Central, Inc. may assert an interest in the abovedescribed property by virtue of recorded judgment liens and said entities have been notified of this sale. The above-described property will be sold subject to unpaid taxes, prior deeds of trust, all easements and restrictions, the rights of tenants in possession of said premises, if any, prior claims, or matters of record. The proceeds of the sale will be applied first to discharge the costs and charges of executing this trust, including attorney s fees; next, to all indebtedness remaining unpaid and secured thereby, including all indebtedness owing to Mountain National Bank, by the grantors; and next, the balance, if any, shall be paid to those legally entitled thereto. This 22nd day of December, 2009.

699 HOME RENTALS

NICE, CLEAN IN KODAK

Townhomes Sevierville 2 BD / 2BA Very Nice $ 645.00

696 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

Small 1BR cottage furn. $385 + $200 dep. 680-3078 No pets. HUD PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, family status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination. State laws forbid discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD Toll-free at 1-800-6699777, The Toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME by Mike Argirion and Jeff Knurek

Unscramble these four Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form four ordinary words.

OPYPP Š2010 Tribune Media Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

HOTUM 710 HOMES FOR SALE Owner Finance Cobbly Knobb area 3 BR 2 BTH BSMT Rancher. Sits on Webb Creek. Totally remodeled with 2 car garage. Asking $190,000 Call Brackfield & Associates 865-691-8195

KLEETT

NEW BIBLE Jumble Books Go To: http://www.tyndale.com/jumble/

696 APARTMENTS FOR RENT

MILTEY Now arrange the circled letters to form the surprise answer, as suggested by the above cartoon.

Print answer here: Saturday’s

“

�

(Answers tomorrow) Jumbles: MANGY BRINY PODIUM GOLFER Answer: It can be difficult to make up at a cosmetics counter — YOUR MIND

A14 ◆ Comics Family Circus

The Mountain Press ◆ Monday, January 11, 2010 Close to Home

Advice

Woman shouldn’t wreck marriage because hubby wants to help family

Zits

Blondie

Baby Blues

Beetle Bailey

Dear Annie: I am married to a wonderful man who loves my kids and me very much. Since the first of our five children was born, I’ve stayed home to raise them. The problem is his family. My husband’s brother has been in and out of jobs, jail and rehab his entire life. Several months ago, he was hurt on the job and has been fighting to get workers compensation. Since he currently has no job and no money, my motherin-law and sister-in-law think we should contribute to pay his rent, which is about $600 a month. Annie, we cannot afford this. We have five kids and our own expenses. We live comfortably, but we don’t have a lot to spare. Another of my husband’s brothers recently asked us for a loan of several thousand dollars. We already loaned this brother money a few years ago and have yet to see a dime paid back. Is it just me, or is it wrong of my in-laws to ask us to help support my 51-year-old brotherin-law, who is also an alcoholic and drug user? All these requests for money are causing a rift between my husband and me. Please help. -- Bad Daughter-in-Law Dear DIL: No, you do not have to help your grown relatives out of their own jams, especially when they have proved to be poor risks in the past. However, this is your husband’s family, and he apparently wants to continue giving to the cause. Discuss it calmly with him so he can

understand that his family members are taking advantage of his generous nature. If he still insists on loaning money to his brothers, put aside a specific amount that you can afford to lose, and let him do with it as he pleases. It is not worth wrecking your marriage over this. Dear Annie: I am a 66-year-old woman, married 42 years, and I can’t take the clutter in my house anymore. My husband saves everything -- including the corners he tears off of envelopes. Our spare bed always has papers on it, as does the top of the dresser. I can’t store sheets or blankets in the drawers, because he has too much junk in there. Wherever there is a place to put anything, he does. One day when I got mad, he said, “I guess I will have to move into the basement.” He would never consider getting rid of the accumulated junk. What do I do? -- All Cluttered Up Dear Cluttered: You’ve been putting up with this for 42 years? We’re impressed with your forbearance. It sounds as if your husband is suffering from a form of obsessivecompulsive behavior. If he recognizes the problem, he may allow you to throw things away for him. Otherwise, please contact the International OCD Foundation

t o d ay ’ s p u z z l e

Garfield

Barney Google and Snuffy Smith

For Better Or Worse

Tina’s Groove

(ocfoundation.org) at P.O. Box 961029, Boston, MA 02196. Dear Annie: I truly felt the pain of “Sad at Christmas.” For years, I bought gifts, organized parties and put up decorations, and often my family totally forgot me. One day, while looking at family pictures, I realized I wasn’t in any of them because I was always the one snapping the photographs. The following year, I chose one family member to be in charge. I then booked a cruise and spent the holidays in the Caribbean dancing under the stars and meeting wonderful people, including a wonderful man from England who is still in my life. I didn’t miss my family at all. Now I look forward to the holidays, and this year will be my seventh cruise. I come home relaxed, happy and ready to start the new year. I highly recommend it. -Loving Christmas Dear Loving: Good for you for finally finding a way to enjoy the holidays. Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column. Please e-mail your questions to anniesmailbox@comcast.net, or write to: Annie’s Mailbox, P.O. Box 118190, Chicago, IL 60611. To find out more about Annie’s Mailbox, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.