October 27, 2009

Page 1

The Mountain Press ■ Sevier County’s Daily Newspaper ■ Vol. 25, No. 300 ■ October 27, 2009 ■ www.themountainpress.com ■ 50 Cents

Tuesday

Small drop in unemployment

INSIDE

Approximately 220 more people worked in county last month By DEREK HODGES Staff Writer

5SEC puts Kiffin on notice Conference threatens possible suspension for another infraction SPORTS, Page A8

5Helicopter catastrophies 14 Americans die in two chopper crashes in Afghanistan WORLD, Page A16

Local

National park road work More than $44M in improvements to be done next spring Page A2

Weather Today Rain likely High: 63°

Tonight Rain likely Low: 52°

It may be a small difference, but Sevier County needs all the good news it can get on its unemployment numbers. Preliminary data released last week by the Tennessee

Department of Labor and Workforce Development shows the county with a 0.1 percent decrease in the rate between August and September. That brought the figure to 9.2 percent for the latter month and represents one of only a couple of drops in the number this year.

Comparing the two months, the data suggests about 220 people found work between them. Though that’s a positive step, it still left 4,440 people on the jobless rolls heading into a season that traditionally brings high unemployment to the area. The number for September is

3.6 percent higher than for the same month last year. Even that time period’s 5.6 percent is high for the end of summer, with this year’s numbers throughout the busy tourist season remaining higher than usual. See UNEMPLOYMENT, Page A4

Getting into character Latest Halloween costumes range from vampires to reality stars By ELLEN BROWN Staff Writer It’s almost Halloween — do you have your costume yet? Whether you’re feeling scary, silly, glamorous or adventurous, the perfect getup is sure to be found at a store near you. “This year it’s Spiderman, Batman and princesses for the kids and vampires, witches and werewolves for adults,” said Katherine Rutherford, K-Mart seasonal department manager in Sevierville. “The vampires are very popular for the adults, but we also have things like Ninjas, cavemen and couples costumes like ketchup and mustard and bacon and eggs.” Since Rutherford’s young son has outgrown his Reaper costume, “I think he’ll go for the Dracula costume this

year,” she said. According to HalloweenMart.com, the national leading retailer of online Halloween costumes, the top Halloween costume for adults and children this year is vampires, hands down. The hugely popular “Twilight” books and movies, along with TV series such as “True Blood” and “The Vampire Diaries” have mere mortals jumping in on the craze, donning fangs, capes and white face paint. The No. 2 costume for adults is Michael Jackson, with men paying tribute to the late pop musician with red leather jackets, a black curly wig and a glittery glove. Women will wear Michaelinspired costumes such as the site’s $200 “Queen of Pop” or $120 “Billy Jean.” See COSTUME, Page A5

Curt Habraken/The Mountain Press

This Sevierville adult used his imagination to come up with this costume.

DETAILS, Page A6

Obituaries Ruby Prince, 73 Elaine Myslak, 80 Virginia Caustic, 67 Dwight Green, 48

DETAILS, Page A4

Index Local & State . A1-A4,A6 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . A2 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . A7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . A8,A9 Money . . . . . . . . . . . . A5 Advice . . . . . . . . . . . A15 Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . A15 Classifieds . . . . . A10-A14 Nation . . . . . . . . . . . A16 World . . . . . . . . . . A5,A16 Curt Habraken/The Mountain Press

Sevier County Boys & Girls Club members enjoy a Halloween party in Sevierville, dressing up in their favorite characters.

Corrections The Mountain Press is committed to accuracy. Please report factual errors by calling 428-0748 Ext. 214.

Winterfest 20 luncheon gets warm reception By DEREK HODGES Staff Writer GATLINBURG — It was a 20th birthday party for something that has made untold millions of dollars for Sevier County, revived the tourism industry at a time it used to go into hibernation and put thousands of local folks to work. The party was big, but

their own celebrations, with promises to kick off Winterfest kickoff events next week: the 20th Sevier County Winterfest with a real n Sevierville’s on Tuesday evening in front of City Hall, including food, entertainment and games bang. There will be fireworks, booming music, n Gatlinburg’s on Wednesday in downtown on the celebrities and millions of Parkway from 4-9 p.m., featuring a chili cook-off and sparkling lights, but for the Marvelettes now Monday’s comparan Pigeon Forge’s on Thursday evening at Patriot Park tively subdued event will with reality television stars the Duggars. have to do. Representatives from with all that, still didn’t next week. each of the three particiseem quite big enough. That is when each of pating cities – Gatlinburg, Fortunately, there’s always the three cities will throw Pigeon Forge and

Sevierville – the county and the state were on hand for the luncheon at Mills Auditorium, with the assistant commissioner of the Department of Tourist Development on hand to offer congratulations from Nashville. “Winterfest is a major event for Tennessee,” Phyllis Qualls-Brooks said. “What Winterfest See WINTERFEST, Page A5

A2 â—† Local

The Mountain Press â—† Tuesday, October 27, 2009

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.

Tuesday, Oct. 27 Women’s Bible Study

Garlands of Grace women’s Bible study: n 1 p.m. Fox Trot B&B, Gatlinburg, 436-0313 n 6:30 p.m. Pigeon Forge UMC, 640-7904

Gatekeepers

Gatekeepers men’s Bible study, 1328 Old Newport Highway, Sevierville. 9080591.

Relay Benefit

Mountain National Bank silent auction to benefit Relay For Life through Oct. 30 at main office, Sevierville. 428-7990. Clayton Inman free gospel concert 7 p.m. at Riverbend Campground.

Wednesday, Oct. 28 Sevierville Story Time Preschool story time 10:30 a.m. Sevier County Main Library. 453-3532.

Thursday, Oct. 29 Hot Meals

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

Halloween Carnival

Gatlinburg Recreation Department free Halloween carnival at Community Center 5:308:30. Includes costume contest, food, games, bowling, dance and more. For preschool to eighth grade. 436-4990.

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

Senior Series

Senior Series, hosted by MountainBrook Village, 700 Markhill Drive, 6-7:30 p.m. Speakers Paul Whaley, veterans officer, and Ken Butler on Social Security disability. 428-2445.

Women’s Bible Study

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

Trunk or treat 6:30-8:30 p.m., Smoky Mountain Christian Church, 125 South Blvd. Includes candy, bounce house, free hot dogs.

Baptist Festival

Faith and Fiftys free gospel concert 7 p.m. at Riverbend Campground.

Fall Festival 1-3:30 p.m. in Family Life Center at First Baptist Sevierville. For all ages. Free admission, hot dogs, candy.

Friday, Oct. 30 Vampire Movie Night

Hallelujah Party

Anna Porter Public Library, Gatlinburg, will hold Vampire Movie Night for teens at 5:30 p.m. 436-5588.

Gum Stand Baptist Church, 3031 Veterans Blvd. in Pigeon Forge, hosting Hallelujah Party 4-7 p.m. Food, face painting, games, pumpkin painting, and trunk or treat.

Sevier County Church of God Fall Festival 6-9 p.m. Includes games, talent show, cake walk, pumpkin painting, chili dinner and marshmallow roast. 4286794.

Church Yard Sale

S.I.T. Banquet

Reservations needed by today for Seniors In Touch free Thanksgiving banquet Nov. 10 at MountainBrook Village, Sevierville. RSVP to 428-2445, ext. 107.

Luretta, Murphy’s Chapel and Roberts UMC rummage/bake sale 7:30 a.m. at old Creswell’s Market on Dolly Parton Parkway. Concessions available. 453-2292.

Evergreen Festival

Free fall festival 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Evergreen Church, 1103 Dolly Parton Parkway. Games, prizes, candy, costume contest for all ages.

Cove Clothes Closet

Students for Appalachian Relief sponsoring a coat drive at Sevier County High School football game, 7 p.m. All sizes needed. 654-9318.

Cove Clothes Closet, 3238 Pittman Center Road at Old Richardson Cove Church, open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free clothing. 4534526.

Gospel Concert

Gabriels Call free gospel concert 7 p.m. at Riverbend Campground.

Relay Benefit

Mountain National Bank silent auction to benefit Relay for Life through today at main office, Sevierville. 428-7990.

Turkey Shoot

Turkey Shoot 2 p.m. weather permitting, behind Catons Chapel Fire Department, 3109 Pittman Center Road.

Halloween Dance Halloween Dance for all ages, 6 to 11 p.m. at Catons Chapel Fire Department, 3109 Pittman Center Road. Includes costume contest and concessions. Chaperones present and

Trunk ‘N’ Treat

Trunk ‘N’ Treat 5 to 7 p.m. First Smoky Mountain Church of the Nazarene, 2652 Upper Middle Creek Road.

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Area youth pastors meet at 6 p.m. at Gum Stand Baptist Church in Pigeon Forge. 453-9001; 282-

Trunk or Treat

Hallelujah Hoedown Halloween alternative 4:30-7:30 p.m., Henderson Chapel Baptist Church. Entertainment, games, food, booths. 453-0153.

Gospel Concert

Chapter 7 •

Saturday, Oct. 31

Hoedown

Coat Drive

TOPS

American Legion Post 104 Fall Harvest Festival

Wears Valley Chamber of Commerce organizational meeting at 7 p.m. at the Wears Valley Ranch dining hall. 384-9884.

Preschool story time 11 a.m. Kodak Library. 9330078.

Free Halloween carnival 5:30-8:30 p.m., Gatlinburg Community Center. Includes costume contest, food, games, bowling. Preschool to eighth grade. 436-4990.

Fall Harvest Festival

Wears Valley Chamber

Kodak Story Time

Halloween Carnival

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Gospel Concert

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Most work to be done between February, Memorial Day From Submitted Reports NATIONAL PARK — Next spring and early summer Great Smoky Mountains National Park expects to make more than $44 million worth of improvements to 56 miles of roads, a campground and a trailhead parking area. Funding has become available from a combination of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act along with previously authorized federal highway funds. “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act offers us the opportunity to substantially improve our infrastructure. When the projects are finished our road system will be in the best shape it has been in for decades and our visitors will find their travel safer as well as more pleasurable.� said Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson. “With the number of projects going on at the same time there will be some impact on traffic while the work is underway. We have worked very hard to minimize this inconvenience through scheduling as much work as possible between February and Memorial Day.� The following Park roadways will be re-surfaced and, in some cases, rebuilt: n Clingmans Dome Road: From Feb. 15 to May 28, the road will be closed to all traffic, but intermittent single-lane closures will continue until June 18. n Roaring Fork/ Cherokee Orchard Road: Feb. 1 to May 28, the oneway road will be closed, while the two-way portion of Cherokee Orchard Road will be subject to managed single lane closures.

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From now through June 15 the road is subject to weekday lane closures (no work allowed during Thanksgiving or Christmas holiday periods). In summer 2010 lane closures will be limited to nighttime. n Cades Cove Loop Road: March 1 to May 21, closed to all public use. Campground, picnic area, store and horse stables will be open. In addition, the Park has money to develop plans and contracts to do four more projects should funding become available. Ditmanson said. These projects are repaving the Foothills Parkway East, Heintooga Ridge Road, and the Smokemont Campground and to formalize day use and hiker parking at the Jakes Creek and Little River Trailheads in Elkmont. A calendar showing all of these projects is available at www.nps.gov/grsm “Planning Your Visit.�

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n Cosby Campground roads: Campground was closed Sept. 8 and will reopen as regularly scheduled in March. n The Sinks parking area and Meigs Creek Trailhead is closed through May 25. The following projects will be undertaken using $19.4 million from the Federal Lands Highway Program: n Foothills Parkway West (Blount County) — May 10 to June 30, subject to single lane closures. n Gatlinburg Bypass and Newfound Gap Road from Gatlinburg boundary to Sugarlands Visitor Center: April 1 to May 28, The bypass will be closed for three weeks in late March/early April, but Newfound Gap Road will be subject to managed lane closures. n Newfound Gap Road from Collins Creek picnic area to Cherokee: Work began in March 2009 and will continue through November 2010.

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Signature _____________________________________________________ Relationship to Child __________________________________________ Child’s Name _________________________________________________ Parent’s Name ________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________ Day Phone____________________________________________________ Method of payment â?? Check $ ____________________________________________________ â?? Credit Card # _______________________________________________ Mail to: The Mountain Press, Pumpkin Patch, P.O. Box 4810, Sevierville, TN 37864

Local â—† A3

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 â—† The Mountain Press

Local Rotarians join effort to put an end to polio Coin collection cans set up in community From Submitted Reports SEYMOUR — People can change the world with just a few coins from their pockets, said Dr.

Don Lakatosh, president of the Seymour Breakfast Rotary Club. “A dose of polio vaccine costs just a dime and we are collecting money to finish the job of eradicating polio from the face of the earth,� he said. Rotary International

began the job of eradicating polio in 1985 when the disease was endemic in 125 countries worldwide. It crippled more than 1,000 children each day. Last year, polio was endemic in only four countries; Nigeria, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has given Rotary two challenge grants totaling $355 million, but Rotary is required to raise $200 million in matching funds. All of this money will be used for polio eradication. The local program

is part of the Gates challenge. The Seymour club has placed cans with special labels in businesses around the community. All of the money collected will be matched by the Gates Foundation and used for polio eradication.

“While a dose of vaccine costs only a dime, the children in the endemic areas have compromised immune systems such that it takes at least six doses of vaccine over a period of time to fully protect a child,� Lakatosh said.

Arnold Estates sets Halloween parties for children, adults From Submitted Reports

Submitted

Volunteer state veterans named James Rogers an honorary honor guard member for his work to promote and honor veterans. They surprised Rogers by coming on stage at Dollywood with 10 people in full dress uniform, one from each branch of the military.

Rogers honored for helping veterans From Submitted Reports

PIGEON FORGE — A volunteer state veterans honor guard named James Rogers an honorary member for his efforts to promote and honor veterans. He wrote the official song of the National Guard.

The veterans surprised Rogers by coming on stage at Dollywood with 10 people in full dress uniform, one from each branch of military service and each with their branch flag. At the end of each show he recognizeD veterans in the audience and sings

a patriotic song in their honor. When he finished the song they made the presentation. The 10 participating military personnel: Army, Bob LeTellier, award presenter; Air Force, Pam Burdette, assistant presenter; Army, Mike Inman, flag; Brad

Heun, Army flag; Navy, Bob Bridges, Navy flag; Marines, John Bell, USMC flag; Air Force, Gary Woolf, USAF flag; Coast Guard, Fred Adomate, USCG flag; US Merchant Marines, Floyd Cleavland, USMM flag; Army, Gary LaMance, POW/MIA flag.

THP exercise targets unsafe trucks From Submitted Reports The Tennessee Highway Patrol, along with numerous federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, examined more than 1,100 trucks during Operation United S.T.O.P. (Strategic Transportation Observation and Prevention) recently. The 24-hour campaign resulted in 59 driv-

ers and 67 trucks being placed out of service. THP Col. Mike Walker said, “THP’s goal in conducting Operation United S.T.O.P. was to improve the overall level of safety on Tennessee’s highways. “With a significant amount of commercial vehicle traffic on Tennessee’s roadways each day, our intent was to uncover any large truck violations and

remove any unsafe vehicle and drivers. While a focus was on commercial traffic and random inspections, THP monitored the overall activity on our highways by saturating the roads with all available personnel.� State troopers operated eight simultaneous checkpoints during the campaign. In addition to the 1,151 truck inspections, 1,164 citations and warnings were

Knoxville man held in Georgia on child sex charge

RINGGOLD, Ga. (AP) — The FBI says a 27-yearold Tennessee man is being held in Georgia on a charge of attempting to solicit a child for sex. FBI Special Agent in Charge Gregory Jones says Tim Grube of Knoxville, was arrested on Sunday in Catoosa County in northwestern Georgia. Jones says Grube, an employee at a satellite radio firm, is being held at the Catoosa County Jail.

issued to both noncommercial and commercial drivers. A total of 22 trucks were found to be overweight and 61 defective commercial vehicles were detected. State troopers uncovered 23 alcohol- and drugrelated violations, and worked a total of 83 traffic crashes.

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SEVIERVILLE — Arnold Estates will hold a free Halloween party Friday for ages 4 to 17 on Friday. Ages 4 to 7 will have a time slot from 4 to 6 p.m. for hay rides and a costume contest. Candy will be handed out. There also will be a hay ride for entertainment at a cost of $2 per person. Ages 8 to 11 will have the time slot of 5 to 7 p.m. There will be games and more monsters along the hay ride. Ages 12 to 17 will have the 7-10 p.m. time slot. The hay ride will have more monsters, a pumpkin video along the trail, ghosts and a “headless horseman� on a black stallion. Once inside the 10,000-square-foot convention center there will be a D.J. for dancing for the 12- to 17-year-olds. Those who enter go through a maze and enter through the jaws of a 16-foot skull. Once inside there’s a 40-foot-spider in the ceiling with 20-foot legs that move. Saturday is adult night starting at 9 o’clock. There will be a D.J., a beer bar and prizes for the best costume. The cost is $10 per person. Arnold Estates is located at 3459 Arnold Estates Parkway. Formore information call 429-8259 or visit www.arnoldestates.com.

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The Mountain Press â—† Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Rock slide clean-up could take 3 months

OBITUARIES

In Memoriam

Virginia (Ginger) Caustic

Virginia (Ginger) Caustic, age 67, of Dandridge, TN, passed away suddenly Sunday, October 25, 2009, at Jefferson Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Dandridge and the New Hope Sunday school class. Preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Martein Helm of Green Cove Springs, FL. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Fred Caustic; two daughters, Dawn Denise Thornton of Green Cove Springs, FL, and Rianna Dawn Caustic of Dandridge; two sons, Bryce Caustic of Pigeon Forge, and Jason Caustic of Green Cove Springs, FL; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brother, Charles L. Helm, Jr. and wife, Peggy of Green Cove Springs, FL; niece, nephew and cousins. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, October 30, 2009, at the First United Methodist Church of Dandridge with Rev. Jay Ferguson officiating. Graveside interment service will follow at Dandridge Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday evening, October 29, 2009, at Farrar Funeral Home in Dandridge. Arrangements by Farrar Funeral Home in Dandridge, TN 37725 (865) 397-2711.

UNEMPLOYMENT 3From Page A1

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In Memoriam

Elaine Stramka Myslak

Elaine Stramka Myslak, age 80 of Kodak, passed away Friday, October 23, 2009. She was preceded in death by her husband Chester Myslak and grandson Jonathan Richards. Survivors include her daughters, Teresa Ivey and Fred Smith, Jessica McGilvray and husband Robert; sons, John Myslak and wife Karen, Andrew Myslak; grandchildren, David DiGiantomasso, Damon DiGiantomasso, Diane Frizzell, Bryan Myslak, Sarah Myslak, Michael Richards; nine great-grandchildren; special thanks to Caris Healthcare. The family will receive friends 6-7 p.m. Thursday with a memorial service at 7 p.m. Thursday in the Chapel of Atchley Funeral Home with Father Bob Costa officiating. Cremation arrangements by Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville. n www.atchleyfuneralhome.com

Some economists have begun to say the extended downturn is easing, but that hasn’t yet seemed to be reflected in the local unemployment numbers. Evidence suggests it may be some time before the recovery, if it is here, makes it to Sevier County. That’s because, experts say, tourist areas tend to lag in drawing customers back after a recession. Unlike other closer-tohome luxuries such as new televisions, consumers seem to want to wait until they’re certain things are back to normal or at least on the road there before they plan expensive vacations. That combined with the coming cold months, which generally don’t bring a lot of visitors to East Tennessee, could delay any real recovery here for several months.

Across the state, though, the news seems to be getting better. Sevier County’s unemployment decrease was one of 83 in Tennessee, while only 11 counties had increases in the rate. One county’s number remained the same. All that combined to bring the statewide unemployment rate down 0.4 percent between August and September, from 10.7 to 10.3 percent according to non-seasonally-adjusted data. The U.S. rate took a smaller downturn, decreasing 0.1 percent from 9.6 to 9.5 percent, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Despite the decrease here, Sevier County managed to fall out of the list of the 10-lowest unemployment rates, though Davidson, which ranked No. 10, also had a 9.2 percent number. Knox County, meanwhile, scored the No. 3 place with its rate of 8.1 percent. Lincoln (6.9

percent) and Williamson (7.5) counties scored the top two spots. At the other end of the spectrum is Lauderdale County, which had an 18.9 percent unemployment rate. Perry County continued its slide into positive territory, landing the No. 90 spot with a 17.6 percent figure. While that may not seem like much of an improvement, it is a considerable step for a county that consistently rated the highest unemployment rate in the state up until a few months ago, when state leaders announced a huge economic development investment in the county. Closer to home, Blount County registered a 9.3 percent rate, down 0.6 percent from the previous month, while Cocke County’s figure dropped 0.5 percent to land at 12.2. Jefferson County also had a decrease, sliding 0.3 percent to 11.8. n dhodges@themountainpress.com

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (AP) — Authorities estimate they will need up to three months to clear debris from a rock slide that has closed Interstate 40 in both directions at the North CarolinaTennessee state line. It was reported that three vehicles ran into the rocks within minutes of the slide, which occurred about 2 a.m. Sunday near mile marker 3 in Haywood County, west of Asheville. Highway Patrol troopers say one woman suffered injuries that weren’t life-threatening. Joel Setzer, a division engineer with the state Transportation Department, said the freeze and thaw of recent rains could have contributed to the slide. Setzer says geologists and geo-technical experts with the Transportation Department did a preliminary assessment and agreed with the engineers’ estimate of up to three months to clear the area. “An estimated 22,000 to 25,000 vehicles pass through this section of Interstate 40 daily, about half of which are commercial trucks,� he said. The highway closure could hurt the area’s already struggling tourism industry, especially during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, said Marla Tambellini, vice president of marketing for the Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau. “It certainly couldn’t come at a worse time, not only because we’re still at the end of leaf season but also because the tourism industry has been hit (during the recession),� said Tambellini, who recalled the impact of a 1997 rock slide. “We’ve gone through it before and we made it out.� Present this coupon for

In Memoriam

Ruby Mae Mize Prince

Ruby Mae Mize Prince, age 73 of Sevierville, passed away Saturday, October 24, 2009. She was preceded in death by parents Oscar and Hazel Mize and grandson Richard Prince. A great mother and a woman loved by all, she is survived by husband, Charles Prince; children, Richard C. Prince and wife Rebecca, Donna Faye Harrison and husband Ronald; grandchildren, Timmy Lovett, David Lovett, Misty Prince; brother, John Mize; sisters, Betty Mayfield and Ruth Wilson. Funeral service 2 p.m. Wednesday in the East Chapel of Atchley Funeral Home with Rev. Wayne Gibson officiating. Interment will follow in Obes Branch Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville. n www.atchleyfuneralhome.com

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Dwight Edward Green Dwight Edward Green, 48 of Sevierville, died Thursday, Oct. 22, 2009. Survivors: son, Michael Green; daughter, Felicia Melvin Green; father, Willard Green; brothers, Joe Green and wife Becky, Wendell Green and wife Betty; sister, Theresa Sinclair and husband Wesley; several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to benefit the family. Funeral service 11 a.m. Tuesday in the West Chapel of Atchley Funeral Home with the Rev. Raymond Collins officiating. Interment will follow in Oldham’s Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Monday at Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville.

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Tuesday, October 27, 2009 â—† The Mountain Press

STOCKS OF LOCAL INTEREST

Name

AFLAC INC ALCOA INC ALCATEL LUCENT ALLSTATE CORP ALTRIA GROUP INC APPLE INC AT&T INC BANK OF AMERICA BB&T CORP BOEING CO BRISTOL-MYERS CRACKER BARREL CHEVRON CORP CISCO SYSTEMS INC COCA-COLA CO CON EDISON INC DUKE ENERGY CORP EASTMAN CHEMICAL EXXON MOBIL CORP FIRST HORIZON FORD MOTOR CO FORWARD AIR CORP GAYLORD ENT GENERAL ELECTRIC HOME DEPOT INC IBM INTEL CORP

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Name

Last

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%Chg

42.88 13.28 4.32 30.34 17.98 202.48 25.31 15.40 25.51 48.29 21.92 35.17 75.45 23.70 53.23 41.33 15.94 54.98 73.23 12.41 7.47 23.56 17.29 15.01 26.10 120.11 19.83

-1.53 -0.45 -0.24 -1.16 0.05 -1.46 -0.42 -0.82 -0.56 -1.60 -0.32 0.15 -1.23 -0.47 -0.01 -0.48 -0.16 -0.16 -0.34 -0.31 -0.16 -0.33 -0.16 -0.19 -0.17 -0.25 0.05

-3.45% -3.28% -5.26% -3.68% 0.28% -0.72% -1.63% -5.06% -2.15% -3.21% -1.44% 0.43% -1.60% -1.94% -0.02% -1.15% -0.99% -0.29% -0.46% -2.44% -2.10% -1.38% -0.92% -1.25% -0.65% -0.21% 0.25%

JC PENNEY CO INC JPMORGAN CHASE KELLOGG CO KRAFT FOODS INC KROGER CO MCDONALD’S CORP MICRON TECHNOLOGY MICROSOFT CORP MOTOROLA INC ORACLE CORP PHILIP MORRIS PFIZER INC PROCTER & GAMBLE REGIONS FINANCIAL SEARS HOLDINGS SIRIUS XM RADIO INC SPECTRA ENERGY SPEEDWAY MTRSPTS SPRINT NEXTEL CORP SUNOCO INC SUNTRUST BANKS TANGER FACTORY TIME WARNER INC TRACTOR SUPPLY CO TRW AUTOMOTIVE WAL-MART STORES YAHOO! INC

35.37 43.82 50.45 26.70 23.75 59.20 7.38 28.68 8.04 21.99 48.75 17.12 56.90 5.10 72.79 0.59 19.69 14.48 3.20 32.68 19.85 37.05 30.73 46.36 18.22 49.84 16.87

-0.66 -1.41 0.25 -0.35 0.05 -0.23 -0.07 0.66 -0.20 -0.06 -0.32 -0.13 -0.74 -0.43 0.01 0.00 -0.31 -0.21 -0.05 -0.44 -1.14 0.05 -0.05 -0.22 -0.32 -0.60 -0.35

-1.83% -3.12% 0.50% -1.29% 0.21% -0.39% -0.94% 2.36% -2.43% -0.27% -0.65% -0.75% -1.28% -7.78% 0.01% 0.22% -1.55% -1.43% -1.54% -1.33% -5.43% 0.14% -0.16% -0.47% -1.73% -1.19% -2.03%

A DAY ON WALL STREET 11,000

Oct. 26, 2009

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10,000 9,000 8,000

-104.22 9,867.96

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Pct. change from previous: -1.05%

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High 10,072.32

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Low 9,849.45

Oct. 26, 2009

2,400

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2,200 2,000 1,800 1,600

-12.62 2,141.85

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High 2,183.61

Pct. change from previous: -0.59%

O

Oct. 26, 2009

-12.64 J

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High 1,091.75

Pct. change from previous: -1.17% SOURCE: SunGard

1,400

Low 2,136.92

5VCPFCTF 2QQTÂśU 1,066.95

7,000

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1,200 1,100 1,000 900 800 700 600

Low 1,065.23 AP

MARKET ROUNDUP 102609: Market charts show Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq; stand-alone; 2c x 4 1/2 inches; 96 mm x 114 mm; staff

County,� Morse said. “I WINTERFEST Editors: All figures as of: 5:25:05 think PM theEDT proof is in the 3From Page A1market fluctuations after close; may not match other AP content NOTE: Figures reflect

Curt Habrakern/The Mountain Press

The scary creature on the right showed up at the Sevier County Boys & Girls Club Halloween party in Sevierville recently. exist to protect children from violent movies, TV shows, music and video games, top Halloween costume-makers and sellers do the opposite, encouraging children under 12 — in some cases under 6 — to dress up as sadistic deranged murderers, including Mike Myers from ‘Halloween,’ Leatherface from ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ and Jason from ‘Friday the 13th,’� Schwartzberg states on his Web site.

Whether trick-ortreaters prefer scary or sweet, they can start their Halloween shopping early. “We have to have (Halloween merchandise) set out at least by the first part of September,� Miller said. “After the beginning of school is over, we set out what we call ‘the happy

part of Halloween,’ with things like cranberry votive candles and glass pumpkins.� At the Magic and Novelty Outlet in Gatlinburg, customers should start ordering costumes around August, said Larry Wilkins, managing partner. The store uses Morris Costumes of Charlotte, N.C. “You can order anything from $10 to $3,000,� Wilkins said of the catalog. At the Boys and Girls Club of Sevierville’s Halloween party on Friday, attendees included everyone from Pocahontas and Supergirl to Spongebob Squarepants and Bob Marley. There were plenty of youth who showed off their creative skills: Nineyear-old Jacob Riddle of Pigeon Forge was an iPod, and 10-year-old Katelynne Fitzgerald of Sevierville was an anything-but-ordinary witch. “I was just putting stuff together,� said Katelynne, who wore a tank top, pouffy mini-skirt and leggings with her witch hat. “And I decided I would be a ‘fashion witch.’� n ebrown@themountainpress.com

Grand Opening - Crusty Joe’s Pizzeria!! percent in December 1989 to as low as 4.2 percent in 2005. Though recent years have seen those numbers dim a bit because of the recession, Morse pointed out things would likely be much worse if it weren’t for Winterfest. “This has had a tremendous impact on people’s lives,� Morse said. Beyond just putting more local folks to work, the event has also helped contribute to the county’s $1.5 billion annual tourism take, the third-highest in the state. Morse’s figures show for Pigeon Forge residents alone tourism spending saves $4,775 per household each year. “It’s been huge, there’s no doubt about it,� Gatlinburg City Manager Cindy Cameron Ogle said

after the luncheon. “The figures just substantiate that. It totally turned around Gatlinburg’s winter months.� Though he wasn’t in the area when the program started, Sevierville City Administrator Steve Hendrix said he’s learned enough about Winterfest to know it’s been crucial for the city’s economy. “I see continued growth for Winterfest and I expect it will become even more important as we move forward,� Hendrix said. n dhodges@themountainpress.com

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does is to give tourists a reason to come here and an even better reason to come back. We pledge our continued support for this event.� Qualls-Brooks’ comments were well-taken. “We used to turn our traffic lights on blink in Pigeon Forge in wintertime,� Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism Director Leon Downey said. That was until he and some other local officials saw a presentation about Christmas celebrations in Wheeling, W.Va., at a gathering of tourism industry representatives in 1989. That city had invested money in decorations and events that sought to draw people in during the cold months, and had seen considerable success. “We talked about it and realized we’d like to do something like that in Sevier County,� Downey explained. “We went to Dollywood and they were on board, and they even offered to fly us up to Wheeling to take a look around. Since then, I don’t know anything we’ve done together that has been more important than Winterfest.� Steve Morse, an economist and director of the University of Tennessee’s Tourism Institute, agreed the impact on the local economy has been staggering. “The data doesn’t lie – it’s been a tremendous economic boost for Sevier

pudding.� That proof comes in the form of numbers Morse presented during the event that suggest Winterfest has as much as tripled the income for certain parts of the local economy in its two decades. For instance, while only about 20 percent of hotel rooms in each of the cities were usually filled during the month of December prior to the start of Winterfest, that number has shot up to more than 60 percent in recent years. At the same time, gross sales at attractions in Pigeon Forge has skyrocketed from just a few hundred thousand dollars to more than $9 million in 2005, while unemployment has tumbled from 14.3

Reality TV stars, zombies and “Bollywood beauties� (made popular by Academy Awardwinning film “Slumdog Millionaire�) are also among the site’s top-selling adult costumes. Superheroes such as Wolverine, TV idols such as Hannah Montana and whimsical creatures such as Alice in Wonderland (making a comeback with the upcoming rerelease of the movie) are other big sellers in children’s costumes. Although Transformers costumes and Michael Jackson masks are big hits at Walgreens Forks of the River in Sevierville, many customers are choosing more traditional garb, said assistant manager Jayne Miller. “We see a lot of people buy fairy and ballerina costumes,� she said. Scary costumes are always popular with the teenagers, Miller adds. Creepy characters are also being marketed to younger children, over which Joel Schwartzberg, a parenting writer in New Jersey, has expressed concern to various media outlets and on his Web site www.tooscarycostumes.com. “Whereas precautions

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

DOW JONES

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STOCK EXCHANGE HIGHLIGHTS

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The Mountain Press ◆ Tuesday, October 27, 2009

sunrise in the smokies

TODAY’S Briefing Local n

GATLINBURG

‘Souper Bowl’ to help United Way

Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts will host “Souper Bowl VI” for the United Way from 5-6:30 p.m. Nov. 12. Tickets are $20 each. The ticket earns a free handmade ceramic bowl created by Arrowmont. Persons can fill the bowl with soups. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the school or from an Arrowmont staff member. Limited tickets will be available at the door. Call 436-5860 to reserve tickets with a credit card or stop by Arrowmont at 556 Parkway.

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PIGEON FORGE

Tree decoration event scheduled

The United Way of Sevier County presents “Tender Tennessee Christmas,” special trees for the holidays, Nov. 2 at Holiday Inn Convention Center, sponsored by the Pigeon Forge Hotel and Lodging Association. Residents decorate seven-foot pre-lit evergreens for the holiday season. Persons will bid on the decorated trees. There will be a live auction at 6 p.m. There is no participation fee. For registration form information call Judy Ann Dial at 368-1900.

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SEVIER COUNTY

Roe plans phone town hall meeting

U.S. Rep. Phil Roe will conduct a telephone town hall for constituents in the 1st District at 6 p.m. today. Listeners will be able to ask questions directly to Roe, whose district includes most of Sevier County. To participate call the following number at 6 p.m. Tuesday: 877-2298493, ID Code 14615.

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SEVIER COUNTY

Schools celebrate Red Ribbon Week The National Red Ribbon Week is being celebrated in Sevier County Schools this week. The National Family Partnership is sponsoring the 22nd annual week aimed at curbing drug use. Sevier County schools have various activities celebrating the week, including “Red, White and Blue Day,” “Wear Red Day,” “All American Hero” dress-up day, poster contests, essay contests, red ribbon carnivals and many more activities.

n

NEWPORT

Mineral Society sets ID night, auction

The Smoky Mountain Mineral Society of East Tennessee is having an identification night and an auction at its Nov. 5 meeting. Participants may bring unknown fossil, gem, mineral or rock collected for years, and find out what it is and its true value. The annual auction will consist of items pertaining to this hobby, and earnings will go into the club treasury. Members and nonmembers are invited. The SMMS serves upper East Tennessee and meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday night of each month in the Newport Utilities Building, 170 Cope Blvd., Newport. For more information call (423) 487-2878.

top state news

Lottery Numbers

‘Justice’ sought for tortured victims KNOXVILLE(AP) — Prosecutors added up the evidence Monday and asked for “justice” for the victims against the man investigators say was the leader in the torture deaths of a young Knoxville couple. Prosecutor Takisha Fitzgerald spent nearly two hours reviewing the fingerprints, shoes, weapons, phone records and witness accounts that allegedly tied Lemaricus Davidson to the January 2007 carjacking deaths of

University of Tennessee student Channon Christian, 21, and her boyfriend Christopher Newsom, 23. Davidson, 28, is charged with 46 counts — including first-degree murder, kidnapping and rape. Prosecutors will seek the death penalty if the Memphis native is convicted. Fitzgerald recounted how Newsom was led naked out into a cold night, raped, shot execution-style in the back

TODAY’S FORECAST

LOCAL:

of the head with a gun of the same type found with Davidson and then his body was set on fire. She recalled how Christian was held for a day or more after the couple was carjacked during a Saturday night date, repeatedly raped and beaten and finally thrown into a trash can hog-tied at Davidson’s house, where she suffocated. A medical examiner said Davidson’s DNA was found on her clothes

City/Region High | Low temps

Forecast for Tuesday, Oct. 27 Chicago 58° | 45°

Washington 58° | 47°

High: 63° Low: 52° Memphis 61° | 54°

East wind 5 mph

Chance of rain

Raleigh 63° | 52°

90%

■ Wednesday Partly cloudy

High: 76° Low: 59° Douglas 979.8 D0.2

© 2009 Wunderground.com

■ Air Quality Forecast: Primary Pollutant: Ozone Mountains: Good Valley: Good

Showers Rain T-storms Flurries Snow

Ice

Cautionary Health Message: None

Sunny Pt. Cloudy Cloudy Weather Underground • AP

quote roundup “Sadness is overwhelming today in the office. It’s as if we are sitting at a funeral in the office because many of our colleagues and people we know were killed.” — An Iraqi government employee after 155 people were killed in twin suicide bombings that targeted government buildings in Baghdad.

“We are shocked. Radovan Karadzic is making the world and justice ridiculous. He is joking with everybody.” — Admira Fazlic, who was imprisoned in Bosnian Serbrun camps during the Balkan wars, after U.N. judges adjourned Karadzic’s war crimes trial after the former Bosnian Serb leader boycotted the opening day to protest his lack of time to prepare his defense.

“I couldn’t be more excited. I feel like a 10-yearold kid.” — Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez, who will play in his first World Series after New York beat the Los Angeles Angels for the AL pennant.

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The Mountain Press Staff

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

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This day in history

n

Locally a year ago:

The Tennessee Department of Safety has approved a new vehicle tag that bears the symbols and name of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a non-profit group that supports research into treatments and possible cures for breast cancer. Of the $59 cost, $35 will go to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization supporting research in Tennessee. Tags are available through the clerk’s office in the courthouse. n

Today’s highlight:

On this date:

In 1938, Du Pont announced a name for its new synthetic yarn: “nylon.” In 1954, Walt Disney’s first television program, entitled “Disneyland” after the yet-to-be completed theme park, premiered on ABC.

Miami 88° | 77°

■ Lake Stages:

14 5

Monday, October 26, 2009

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New Orleans 74° | 63°

Partly cloudy

Midday: 8-3-3 Evening: 1-1-3

On Oct. 27, 1787, the first of the Federalist Papers, a series of essays calling for ratification of the U.S. Constitution, was published in New York.

Atlanta 58° | 49° High: 73° Low: 55° ■ Thursday

Monday, October 26, 2009

Today is Tuesday, Oct. 27, the 300th day of 2009. There are 65 days left in the year.

Today's Forecast

Rain

and in her body. “What we want is justice for those kids, for the crimes that they had to endure. Nothing more and nothing less,” Fitzgerald said in capping the seventh day of Davidson’s trial. Judge Richard Baumgartner decided to wait until Tuesday to give Davidson’s lawyers a chance to respond, and then make his final charge to the seven men and five women on the jury.

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Ten years ago:

In the first debate of the Democratic presidential race, Al Gore sought to stem his decline in the polls by attacking rival Bill Bradley’s health care and spending plans. n

Five years ago:

The Boston Red Sox won their first World Series since 1918, sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 4, 3-0. n

Thought for today:

“If men were angels, no government would be necessary.” — President James Madison (17511836).

Celebrities in the news n

Jay-Z

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Yankees have been blasting Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” during their playoff run. Now, the team is having the rap king perform the song live to kick off Game 1 of the World Series. Jay-Z Jay-Z and fellow New Yorker Alicia Keys are set to perform the hit on Wednesday, as the Yankees take on defending World Series champs, the Philadelphia Phillies. “Thank the good Lord for making me a Yankee,” the Brooklyn native said in an interview Monday. He calls the opportunity a “once in a lifetime experience” and says though the jam has become an unofficial New York anthem, he’s not pushing for it to be the city’s theme song.

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 ■ Tuesday, October 27, 2009

c o m m entary

Prison time too short for this man By PATTY REYNOLDS Guest columnist I lost my husband and best friend May 16, 2000 because of a drunken driver. The man that killed my husband, James Lee Parton, had multiple DUI charges and convictions, as well as other charges for various offenses. At the time of our wreck Mr. Parton had a valid driver’s license. It was quite obvious that he had never served the length of time behind bars to match state law and what his punishment should have been at the time. After the death of my husband, Ray Reynolds, he was finally punished to the fullest extent possible after a lengthy trial. He was given a sentence of more than 25 years for the death of my husband and the injuries to my son and me. At that time I felt that my family had some peace and closure, knowing that the man that killed my husband would never get behind the wheel again. I thought he would never be able to cause anyone else the pain and devastation that he caused us. I am now heartbroken that I was wrong. I know that life moves on, but every time I hear of a person losing their life, or get a letter from the parole board, I am sitting back in that car watching my husband die. That was nine years ago. I received a letter from the parole board last week that informed me Mr. Parton is being released. Where is the justification for the loss of my husband and the father of my children? Nine years? Please! The parole board informed me that they could overturn a judge’s order. How is this possible? He was sentenced to more than 25 years for vehicular manslaughter, and two counts of vehicular assault to serve concurrently. That equaled over 25 years. The parole board evidently feels that he is not a risk to the public any longer. I pray they’re right in their decision, but his history is shocking. I’m sure that there will be many people who think he should be given another chance with treatment programs, probation, etc., but he had just been released from an alcohol treatment program the morning that he killed my husband. Another DUI — not his first by any means. I just can’t understand how our judicial system works. Sevier County, we need to make sure that these DUI offenders are getting the punishment that, by state law, they should receive. Too many times DUI offenders are released or given a lighter sentence because they have a good lawyer or know judges or someone with influence. Our judges need to make a point of sending these multiple DUI offenders off our streets. We as citizens need to watch out for each other and report a possible drunken driver to the police. Please, I urge you to call 911 if you notice someone possibly under the influence. It will save lives. I am very saddened that Mr. Parton is getting released. I’m happy for his family that they are getting their son/ father/grandfather back. I’m sure they are thrilled. My family is devastated that we will never hug, kiss, or tell Ray how much we love him again. I just ask that people don’t enable a person to live a lifestyle that will eventually take a life. If you know someone who has dependency problems, get them the help they need. Please don’t let them take their keys in hand and destroy a family or themselves. I can tell you that not only my family has suffered a great loss, but Mr. Parton’s family has suffered their own torment as well. If you think it won’t happen to you, you’re wrong. It happened to us on a beautiful, sunny day at 4:30 in the afternoon on May 16, 2000. It happens every day. We see it in the headlines way too often. Make a difference. Stand up and help fight the battle against these DUI offenders. Thank you for letting me vent my anger. — Patty Reynolds is a resident of Sevier County.

E d i tor i al

Title town again? Smoky Bears’ 9-0 start evoking visions of 1999 championship It was 10 years ago that the Sevier County High Smoky Bears captured the state football championship. The team actually lost two of its first three games and was 4-3 that season before it got things going and never lost again, defeating Glencliff 31-27 in the title game. The Smoky Bears stand 9-0 right now, and visions of another title are popping up all over. There remains a long way to go, and the uncertainty of the playoffs and the fact that at playoff level anybody can beat anybody else should rightfully temper the optimism — at least a little bit. But it’s hard not to think the 2009 team of Coach Steve Brewer is on to something. They have narrowly escaped — remember the win over Seymour when a fourth-down pass in overtime got the winning touchdown? — and won going away

against other opponents. They’ve played very well and not so well. They have made mistakes and played flawlessly at times. In short, the Smoky Bears are behaving like almost every team at every level of competition. Fortunately the Bears have Brewer running things. This is not just a great coach, but a good man who has surrounded himself with quality coaching talent. These teenagers respond to him and his coaching squad. They support each other. The Smoky Bears are truly a team, and keeping a unit together is not so easy these days. Sevier County still has Morristown East remaining on the regular season schedule this week before starting the playoffs. The road to the state title won’t be easy, of course. The Bears are in the

top classification by enrollment, and that means the quality of talent will be exceptional as the team goes deeper into the playoffs. While a championship is a long way off and much work remains to be done, one thing for sure: The team can count on a fan base as loyal and committed as any school could hope for. Sevier County is blessed with parents, teachers and fans in general who attend every game and make sure the players know it. That’s important at any level of competition in a team sport. Good luck the rest of the way, Smoky Bears. You won’t be alone among Sevier County teams making the postseason, but as our biggest high school you probably have the largest following. Keep your eyes on the prize.

P ol i t i c al v i e w

P u bl i c f or u m Greeneville man unhappy with paying wrecker service at show

Editor: I live in Greeneville where I was born and raised, and my family has always enjoyed the East Tennessee area. I’ve been coming to Gatlinburg since I was a little boy in the 1940s and usually visit the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area several times a year. On Sept. 19, I traveled to Pigeon Forge to a large car show I believe they call the rod run. I drove into town and parked in a grassy space near Lucy’s Fireside Restaurant. I walked up the street and was only gone about 15 minutes when I turned around and headed back to my vehicle. As I walked toward it, I saw that it was hooked to a wrecker, I asked the driver to hold up and asked what the problem was. He

said that I had parked in a driveway. I looked around and asked him where a “private/no parking” sign was posted and he pointed toward an area about 75 feet away at the restaurant with about 20 cars parked in front of it. He said it was a driveway but it was covered in grass. He had not moved my car one foot yet, but said if I wanted it back, it would cost me $160. What could I do? I paid him the $160 and he let it down. Looking back, I wish I had called the police. For raising my car and letting it down again in the same spot, he charged me $160. I paid him and I went home. What has happened to us as a society? Heaven forbid a guy might give another a break for being able to catch a so-called mistake. But I don’t think it was as much of a mis-

take as it was an opportunity for the wrecker service to make a buck. The area should have been better posted. With the heavy traffic, and the fact that I was gone such a short time, I almost felt like he might have been watching me park my car and then walk away just in time to hook it up. There was a time in this country when things like this didn’t happen. But it seems as if greediness has taken over common sense and any kind of compassion from strangers. Losing $160 won’t change my life, but it sure would change some people’s, especially in this day and time. This was not right. The wrecker knows it, I know it and you know it. I hope the owner of the wrecker service sleeps well tonight. I know I will. Max L. Cox Greeneville

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.

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

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Sports

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

■ The Mountain Press ■ A8 ■ Tuesday, October 27, 2009

PREP FOOTBALL

Smoky Bears climb to No. 4, G-P is 7th in poll SCHS goes for first-ever undefeated season Friday By JASON DAVIS Sports Editor

In the meantime, cross-county GatlinburgPittman jumped two spots from 9th to 7th in the 3A poll after a tough 7-0 win over district foe Carter. The win was a huge one for the Highlanders. Now if the team can defeat county-rival Pigeon Forge this Friday, they’ll stand alone in second place in District 3-AA, which guarantees them playoff eligibility, according to TSSAA.org. Theoretically, even with a loss G-P would still finish second, as they’d be tied with Gibbs and Fulton, two teams they beat. Sevier County is now one of only three 6A teams that remain unbeaten, along with No.1 Ooltewah

SEVIERVILLE — After nine weeks of winning, the Smoky Bears are finally getting their respect. The Associated Press voters moved Sevier County High School up another notch in the Class 6A poll Monday, giving the Bears’ their highest position of the season — 4th — behind state powers Ooltewah, Maryville and Riverdale. The unbeaten Smoky Bears eased through South-Doyle Friday night 28-0, and now only one opponent — a dangerous Morristown East team — stands in the way of the school’s first-ever undefeated regular season.

and Mt. Juliet. Mt. Juliet’s closest contest this year was in the first week of the season, when they won 21-20 at McGavock. They also had close calls against Whites Creek (15-12) and at Hendersonville (44-37). Ooltewah’s closest game was against Austin-East in the second game of the year. They won 7-6 over the Roadrunners. They also had one-score wins over Soddy Daisy (21-14) and Maplewood (30-24). Sevier County’s closest games were a thrilling double-OT win over Seymour and a three-point win at Knoxville Halls.

Class 6A W-L Pts Prv 1. Ooltewah (16) 9-0 191 1 2. Maryville (3) 8-1 169 2 3. Riverdale (1) 8-1 147 3 4. Sevier County 9-0 112 5 5. Oakland 7-2 108 4 6. Blackman 8-1 98 6 7. Mt. Juliet 9-0 85 8 8. Farragut 7-2 55 9 9. Franklin 8-1 40 10 10. Brentwood 7-2 24 7 Class 5A W-L Pts Prv 1. Tennessee (18) 9-0 198 1 2. Clinton (1) 9-0 171 2 3. HenryCo (1) 8-1 142 3 4. Sullivan South 8-1 137 4 5. Columbia 8-1 111 5 6. Mitchell 7-2 82 9 7. MorristownWest 7-2 55 10 8. Daniel Boone 7-2 46 6 9. Gallatin 7-2 40 10. LawrenceCo 7-2 28

Jason Davis/The Mountain Press

Coach Steve Brewer has his Smoky Bears on the verge of school history, as a win Friday would give Sevier County High their first-ever undefeated season.

mpsports@themountainpress.com

Class 4A W-L Pts Prv 1. Red Bank (19) 9-0 198 1 2. Crockett County 9-0 156 2 3. Giles County 8-1 150 3 4. LibMagnet (1) 8-1 137 4 5. ClaiborneCo 8-1 96 5 6. Creek Wood 8-1 83 6 7. DLipscomb 6-3 63 7 8. KnoxFulton 6-3 54 8 9. Greeneville 6-3 49 10 10. Brainerd 7-2 41 9

Class 3A W-L Pts Prv 1. Alcoa (19) 9-0 198 1 2. Milan 9-0 159 2 3. Polk County 9-0 152 3 4. CAK (1) 9-0 150 5 5. Austin-East 6-3 86 7 6. Camden 9-1 80 4 7. G-P 8-1 78 9 8. Elizabethton 7-2 75 6 9. Goodpasture 7-2 55 10 10. Manassas 8-1 17 (tie) McMinnCtrl 6-3 17 Class 2A W-L Pts Prv 1. TrsdaleCo (12) 8-1 182 1 2. BBuchanan (5) 8-1 178 2 3. McKenzie 8-1 142 3 4. FrdshpChristian 8-1 133 4 5. Signal Mtn 8-1 108 5 6. Adamsville (2) 9-1 103 7 7. Hampton (1) 8-1 102 6 8. Forrest 8-1 61 8 9. Oneida 7-2 41 9 10. Cascade 6-3 22 10 Class A W-L Pts Prv 1. Jo Byrns (14) 9-0 177 2 2. WayneCo (3) 9-0 171 3 3. SPittsburg (3) 7-2 167 1 4. Grace Christian 8-1 132 4 5. Huntingdon 7-2 118 5 6. Union City 7-2 107 6 7. Lookout Valley 7-2 73 7 8. Collinwood 6-3 53 9 9. Harriman 6-3 39 10 10. Perry County 6-3 21 8

COMMENTARY AND OPINION

Bears fans should turn out in force Friday As I awaited kickoff for the Sevier County/SouthDoyle game on Friday night, I noticed something curious. Others around me noticed it too. A Knoxville news station cameraman mentioned it to another bystander and pretty soon almost everyone on the sidelines had talked about it. For a fanbase that had a team at 8-0 and among the state’s top-ranked prep football squads, Sevier County High School didn’t have a very big crowd. I was mildly surprised. I knew the possibility of rain might effect the turnout, but as I pulled into the parking lot and heard the guys on the Mixx saying the weather appeared to be passing over, I thought the crowd would come flocking in. It never did. I’m not saying it was the worst crowd I’ve seen or anything like that, but there were definitely good seats to be had. The fans in attendance were loud enough, though, as they supported their Smoky Bears with all they had. Still, I couldn’t help thinking — what an awesome atmosphere it should have been. I’m counting on Smoky Bears fans to be out in droves this coming Friday

Photo submitted

The 2009 Sevier County High School Boys Cross Country team (right) finished 3rd at the InterMountain Athletic Conference championship in Dandrige on Thursday.

as the Purple and White take on Morristown East. It’s not often you can see your high school team go for an undefeated season. These players have literally worked for years achieve this moment, making plenty of sacrifices along the way. A group of seniors has endured two straight seasons of questions as they failed to make the playoffs in 2007 and 2008, something that had never happened under coach Steve Brewer. Now that same group has a chance to do something else no other group has ever done at SCHS — going undefeated in the regular season. That’s pretty special. Whether you’re a Smoky Bear fan or not, if you don’t have a high school team you support in the area, go buy a purple shirt and come out to Burchfield Stadium on Friday to support the local guys in their bid for history. They deserve the community’s support, and Friday’s the perfect time to give it to them. mpsports@themountainpress.com

Dave Martin/AP

Tennessee coach Lane Kiffin yells instructions to his players during the first half of an NCAA college football game against top-ranked Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala., Saturday, Oct. 17. SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE FOOTBALL

Clamping down on Kiffin SEC reprimands coach for 2nd time this year

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Tennessee’s Lane Kiffin and Mississippi State’s Dan Mullen were reprimanded Monday by the Southeastern

Conference for criticizing officials, raising the number of coaches to be scolded by the league for knocking game officiating to three in the last week. For Kiffin, it was the second time this year he has been reprimanded by the league. SEC commissioner Mike Slive said Kiffin could be suspended if he violates conference rules again.

Vanderbilt coach Bobby Johnson also weighed in on the officiating Monday after he had some questions about calls made in his game against South Carolina last weekend. Johnson said he’d like to speak with SEC coordinator of officials Rogers Redding. “I think I’d have to get in line,” Johnson said.

All this came a week after one SEC crew was suspended after it called penalties that the league said were not support by video evidence in the LSUGeorgia game on Oct. 3 and the Arkansas-Florida game on Oct. 17. The day after the suspension was announced by See KIFFIN, Page A9

Smoky Bears run well at IMAC championship DANDRIDGE — The Sevier County High School Cross Country team finished the regular season with a strong showing at the IMAC conference championship Thursday in Dandridge. Of the eight conference teams competing on the 5k course, SCHS finished third a mere four points out of second place. Senior Alex McCandless led the squad with a time of 17:17. Several runners had a season personal bests including

freshman Patrick Hanlon (17:54), William Winborn (20:59), sophomores Jake Moore (22.02) and Aaron Hayes(25:00) and seniors Marty Williams (19:17) and Zac Carlson (20:41). “These boys gave great effort, ran a great race and we seem to be peaking at the right time of the season,” said coach Dan Hanlon. The regional championship takes place Thursday at Daniel Boone High School. From submitted reports

Sports â—† A9

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 â—† The Mountain Press ABA BASKETBALL

Smoky Mountain Jam will play their basketball games at Catlettsburg School SEVIERVILLE — Soon there may be some dunking at the new Catlettsburg School. No, there isn’t an elemenary school phenom playing for the Coyotes. The Smoky Mountain Jam, formerly the Knoxville Thunderbolts, will play their home games this season at Catlettsburg School in Sevierville while looking for a more perminent solution. Locals Rick and Elizabeth Williams, as well as Samuel Smith were among some of the owners of the team present at a press conference earlier this fall announcing the ABA team’s move from Maryville to Sevierville. The team will play over 15 home games this coming season as a part of the growing league, and, according to the team, ticket prices for the games will be very reasonable. During the team’s first try-out for players, athletes from the

Photo submitted

Samuel Smith and Rick and Elizabeth Williams at the press conference announcing the Smoky Mountain Jam are coming to Sevier County.

University of Tennessee and Maryville College participated, as well as players from as far away as Arkansas, Atlanta and

played its way to the quareven New York. Last year, playing terfinals of the league’s their games at Maryville playoffs. College as the Knoxville Thunderbolts, the team From submitted reports LOCAL TENNIS

Murray, Webb win ’Burg round robin tennis tourney GATLINBURG — Twentyfour players competed in the Oct. 18 round robin tennis tournament at the Don Watson Tennis Center in Mynatt Park, and Cami Webb of Knoxville and Ryan Murray of Pigeon Forge were the winners. There will be another round robin event on Nov. 1 at 2 p.m., again at Mynatt Park.

Submitted photo

Cami Webb and Ryan Murray won the Oct. 18 round robin tournament at Mynatt Park.

It will be a doubles format tournament for players 16-years and above, open to the first 24 participants to arrive. There will be a $5 per player entry fee and a pizza party after play. For more information or to preregister for a guaranteed spot, call G.Webb at 368-3433 or The Tennis Corner at 436-3639 or Jim Mayfield at 436-3389.

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“I’m sure we’ll get one of those letters that really means nothing as Bobby (Petrino) got last week, but Florida and Alabama live on.�

Coach Lane Kiffin

in this calendar year,� Slive said in a statement. “Coach Kiffin is on notice that for any further violations of SEC policies will subject him to additional penalties including suspension.� Tennessee spokesman Bud Ford said Kiffin would not comment on the reprimand. Mullen said Sunday the replay official who worked Mississippi State’s 29-19 victory against Florida in Starkville, Miss., should be disciplined for not overturning an interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter by Gators linebacker Dustin Doe, who might have fumbled before reaching the goal line. “I don’t even know why we have replay right now in the Southeastern Conference if they’re not going to utilize it,� Mullen said. The replay official listed for the game in Starkville on Saturday night was Dan Dembinski. “I hope he’s severely punished if he ever works another SEC game again, because I think it’s completely unacceptable.� SEC associate commissioner Charles Bloom said Doe’s touchdown had not been reviewed by the conference.

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the SEC, Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino was reprimanded last week for making critical statements about officiating in the Razorbacks’ 23-20 loss at Florida. Kiffin and Mullen were set off by the officiating in their games on Saturday. On Sunday, Kiffin questioned why officials failed to penalize Alabama’s Terrence Cody for unsportsmanlike conduct when the defensive lineman removed and threw his helmet after blocking a field goal on the last play of Alabama’s 12-10 victory in Tuscaloosa. He also said he decided to let the clock run down instead of trying to run another play before the kick because he was concerned about the officiating. “You run another play and you throw an interception or they throw another flag on us — I wasn’t going to let the refs lose the game for us there and some magical flag appear,� Kiffin said. Kiffin expected to be hearing from the SEC about his comments. “I’m sure we’ll get one of those letters that really means nothing as Bobby got last week, but Florida and Alabama live on,� he said Sunday. This reprimand came with a warning from Slive to Kiffin, who was penalized by the league earlier this season after he accused Florida coach Urban Meyer of violating NCAA recruiting rules. “This is the second reprimand for Coach Kiffin

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Comics ◆ A15

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 ◆ The Mountain Press Family Circus

Close to Home

Advice

Son wants to tell ailing, elderly dad ‘terrible secret,’ but doesn’t know how

Zits

Blondie

Baby Blues

Beetle Bailey

Dear Annie: I have an elderly father with a bunch of serious medical problems. We’ve never had a close relationship. I suspect he could pass away soon, and I would like to have some meaningful dialogues before that happens. I also have a terrible secret I’d like to tell him before he dies. Dad and I have an awful relationship. He always yelled at me, and was extremely rude, boorish, critical, cranky, crabby, sarcastic and angry all the time, for no reason. He was like this to my mom and sister, too. Once, he threw me out of a slow-moving car. He was a heavy drinker. I’ve attempted suicide three times, and Dad refused to visit me in the hospital. I’m still angry about this. He no longer drinks heavily, but he still drinks, and I’m sure it interacts with all the medication he takes. Thank goodness he no longer drives. Since his health problems started, Dad has changed for the better, but we still never talk to each other. I’ve tried to have normal conversations with him, but it’s almost impossible. How do I begin to tell him my terrible secret? -- Scared Son in Sarasota, Fla. Dear Scared Son: Since you and Dad have such a hard time communicating, it might help to bring in a third party to facilitate the initial conversation -- perhaps an understanding relative, mutual friend or clergyperson. You can always start by telling him you care about him and worry about his health. However, we have to wonder why you are so desperate to tell him a “terrible secret.” It doesn’t sound as if you seek his

counsel on the matter, only that you are trying to unburden yourself at his expense. Examine your motives. If telling Dad will bring him some peace of mind and make your relationship better, go ahead. Otherwise, please discuss your secret with someone who can be of assistance or support. Dear Annie: I am a 17-year-old junior in high school and get invited to various parties. One girl, “Sarah,” likes to show R-rated, unrated or uncut movies. Annie, I am extremely uncomfortable watching the content of these movies and have told Sarah. I have no qualms about leaving the room when they’re playing. She finds nothing wrong with these films and says she’s doing me a favor by making me watch them. Annie, the synopses of some of these films make me physically ill. I now avoid Sarah’s parties (and sometimes Sarah) so I won’t be pressured. I refuse to lower my standards, but I am tired of Sarah jumping down my throat about it. Is there anything I can do to get her to respect my choices? -- Need Suggestions Dear Need: Every crowd has one person who enjoys tormenting those who are easily flustered. Just because you are old enough to watch R-rated films doesn’t mean you have to. Instead of becoming upset with Sarah’s shenanigans, try being

t o d ay ’ s p u z z l e

Garfield

Barney Google and Snuffy Smith

For Better Or Worse

Tina’s Groove

completely bored. Sigh and say, “Thanks for your interest in my education.” Smile. Walk away. She’ll tire of it eventually. Dear Annie: I read “L.K.’s” response to “Baby Mama,” who wants to get pregnant. L.K. said having a baby at age 19 limits any further education. I was 19 when I became pregnant with my first child. It wasn’t planned, and I definitely didn’t want a permanent commitment to the father. However, I made the best of a bad situation. I went on to finish college and now have a BA in education and a teaching career. I do agree that it is irresponsible to want a baby just because her friends have one. And it’s true that finishing school was a struggle. I would not suggest it to anyone else that age. It does rob you of your youth. However, if she works hard, she can still have a good education and a career. -- Managed It Dear Managed: Those who truly want an education can achieve that goal, with or without a child. But we worry that young women like “Baby Mama” don’t see any further into their future than nine months. 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.

A16 ◆ World/Nation

The Mountain Press ◆ Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Baghdad death toll at 155

Associated Press

BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraqi security forces conducted intense searches at checkpoints in Baghdad on Monday amid warnings of more attacks, as Iraqis questioned how two buses packed with explosives penetrated what was supposed to be one of the city’s safest areas, killing 155 people. Sunday’s twin suicide blasts in the heart of the capital targeting the Justice Ministry and the Baghdad Provincial Administration were the

worst attacks in more than two years. They raised fears about Iraq’s ability to protect itself as it prepares for January elections and the U.S. military withdrawal. Baghdad’s top security officials brought reinforcements to guard government institutions and blocked streets around the capital, acting on intelligence suggesting such buildings could be the militants’ next target, Maj. Gen. Qassim alMoussawi, a spokesman

for the city’s operations command center told The Associated Press. But those measures seemed insufficient to many angry Iraqis who fear more attacks and question the ability of Prime Minister Nouri alMaliki’s government to keep the country secure. “This explosion made people furious,” said Ahmed Hassan, an employee at the Ministry of Education. “People will not re-elect this government.”

A military helicopter hovers above a refugee camp in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Monday. The two helicopter crashes that killed 14 Americans was the deadliest day for the U.S. mission in Afghanistan in more than four years.

14 Americans die in two Afghan helicopter crashes KABUL (AP) — Helicopter crashes killed 14 Americans on Monday — 11 troops and three drug agents — in the deadliest day for the U.S. mission in Afghanistan in more than four years. The deaths came as President Barack Obama prepared to meet his national security team for a sixth full-scale conference on the future of the troubled war. In the deadliest crash, a helicopter went down in the west of the country after leaving the scene of a firefight, killing 10 Americans — seven troops and three Drug Enforcement Administration agents. Eleven American troops, one U.S. civilian and 14 Afghans were also injured. In a separate incident, two U.S. Marine helicopters — one UH-1 and an AH-1 Cobra — collided in flight before sunrise over the southern province of Helmand,

killing four American troops and wounding two more, Marine spokesman Maj. Bill Pelletier said. It was the heaviest single-day loss of life since June 28, 2005, when 16 U.S. troops on a special forces helicopter died when their MH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down by insurgents. The casualties also mark the first DEA deaths in Afghanistan since it began operations there in 2005. U.S. authorities have ruled out hostile fire in the collision but have not given a cause for the other fatal crash in the west. Taliban spokesman Qari Yusuf Ahmedi claimed Taliban fighters shot down a helicopter in northwest Badghis province’s Darabam district. It was impossible to verify the claim and unclear if he was referring to the same incident.

HHS secretary: Don’t fret, ample flu vaccine available WASHINGTON (AP) — Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said Monday the swine flu vaccine “is coming out the door as fast as it comes off the production line.” But at the same time, she acknowledged delays in getting a sufficient supply for all those demanding it. “We were relying on the manufacturers to give us their numbers and as soon as we got numbers we put them out to the public. It does appear now that those numbers were overly rosy,” Sebelius said in one interview. “We do have a vaccine that works,” she said. Sebelius said the immune response is working faster than officials anticipated. Appearing Monday morning on nationally broadcast news shows, she said officials now have a supply of about 16.5 million doses of the vaccine, while

conceding that’s millions of doses below the amount needed. Sebelius said she couldn’t predict just how widespread the virus will be. Roughly a thousand people have died from it so far in the United States. But she also said officials do not believe there is yet any cause to close down schools and cease other daily activities. President Barack Obama declared a health emergency over the weekend to give hospitals and health professionals more leeway from federal regulations to respond to the illness. And on Sunday, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said Congress would be happy to provide additional support and money on a bipartisan basis, if the need arises. Said Sebelius: “If we had found the virus a little earlier we could have started a

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little earlier.” Asked what advice she would give to people who have waited futilely in line for shots, the secretary replied, “I want them to come back.” “I hope that people aren’t discouraged,” she said. “I know it’s frustrating to wait in line and particularly if you end up with no vaccine. We wish this could have been smoother, that we had a larger supply. We knew it would come in waves.” Sebelius sought to assure people that eventually there will be enough supplies “for everyone.” Dr. Anne Schuchat, who heads the Immunization and Respiratory Diseases Division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said it’s hard to predict how long the H1N1 wave will continue, so even getting vaccinated a few months from now — when vaccine supplies are more plentiful — won’t be too late.

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