Questions answered at mayoral candidate debate Amber Rountree shines at South Knox Alliance ...

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PAGE APB The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018 April 9, 2018 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE A1
CitizensforKane.org
PAID FOR BY COMMITTEE TO ELECT ROGER KANE, RANDY ALLEN TREASURER
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Take One!
April 9, 2018
Amber Rountree shines at
South Knox Alliance Candidate Forum
By Rose King School, she had been there the South-Doyle library is currently working on with
earlier in the day visiting which, thanks to a generous Superintendent Thomas
The South Knox Alliance classrooms and seeing grant by Randy Boyd, has is addressing safety and
hosted a Candidate Meet some of the great work had a half million dollar ren- security concerns at South-
and Greet last week. Candi- going on. The mother of ovation. She invited every- Doyle High School.
dates for Knox County Com- two boys not yet in school one who hasn’t already Speaking about the
mission at-large Seats 10 is working on her doctorate seen it to schedule a visit. development and expan-
and 11, Circuit Court Clerk, degree in education and lit- The model library has been sion of the early literacy pro-
County Clerk, Register of eracy. visited by other schools gram, she said, “It’s prob-
Deeds and School Board The former Halls Elemen- in Knox County as well as ably no surprise given my
were each given five min- tary School librarian has a those across the state. background that I believe
utes to discuss three ques- passion for children and She was a member of literacy is the key to our stu-
tions related to the office education that has made last year’s Superintendent dents’ academic success.
they are seeking. Adam her a driving force in grow- Search Committee along When gaps in literacy skills
Fritts, SKA board member, ing great schools in Knox with school board mem- aren’t caught early, it is hard
introduced the candidates County. She was instrumen- bers Tony Norman and for students to close those
and posed the discussion tal in the recently complet- Susan Horn. Rountree was gaps and become success-
questions. ed comprehensive rezon- happy to select Superin- ful. We have a great Pre-K
Despite being the final ing which allows students tendent Bob Thomas, a program here at Dogwood.
speaker of the evening, to attend the schools clos- selection which she says I want to see this extreme-
Amber Rountree radiat- est to them. “I feel that has brought an increased ly successful early literacy
ed enthusiasm as she dis- neighborhood support is so positive school culture and program continue to expand
cussed her accomplish- important to our kids,” she morale. She is also proud throughout Knox County. ”
ments and her vision for emphasized. of the work accomplished Candidates for county
Knox County Schools. Rountree talked about by the educational dispar- commission at-large seats
Amber Rountree, who the benefit of the commu- ity in educational outcome present were Ronnie
currently represents the nity school program such task force of which she was Rochelle, Larry Smith,
9th District and is serving as Dogwood. “This model a member. Justin Biggs and Tori Grif-
a second term as vice chair brings services, partner- Rountree believes that fin. Daniel Gerke was rep-
of the Knox County Board ships and mentors to our there is still much to be resented by Danny Wilhoit
PHOTO BY ROSE KING.
of Education, returned to school, which has contrib- done and said she has and Larsen Jay was repre-
9th District school board member and candidate Dogwood Elementary for uted to our students’ suc- great plans for the future of sented by Scott Broyles. The
Amber Rountree addresses a large crowd at the South the candidate forum. As the cess.” Knox County Schools and candidates were asked to
Knox Alliance candidate forum last week at Dogwood school board member rep- Another recent success the schools in South Knox-
Elementary School. resenting the Community she mentioned has been ville. A top priority that she Continue on page 2
Questions answered at Early voting
starts Wednesday
mayoral candidate debate
By Mike Steely
[email protected]
By Mike Steely
that money is “better in your Jacobs agreed some system, safety, teachers Early voting in Knox County begins Wednesday
[email protected]
pocket than in some politi- departments could be con- pay and the need for drug and the races for sheriff and county mayor seem
Campaign supporters cian’s hands.” solidated and said he “lives education at an earlier age. to be driving the turnout. There are lots of other
and interested citizens Thomas said “No” and in the county and don’t want The candidates were
offices on the ballot, everything from commission
packed the auditorium at said that the county needs it.” also asked about neighbor-
races to non-partisan school board races.
Jewelry Television’s mayor- to “use business sense” Thomas said he “can’t hood safety, pay raises for
All in all whichever party primary you vote for,
al debate Thursday. and look at programs that imagine that” and noted teachers, major employ-
the ballot is going to be a bit longer than you
WBIR’s John Becker could be reduced and save that a move to metro-type ers in the county, TIF and
might expect. Early voting runs until April 26 with
hosted the debate and the money. government doesn’t origi- PILOT financing, and requir-
the county general election slated for May 1.
questions were submitted nate in the county mayor’s ing sidewalks in new devel-
Registered voters in the county, which includes
prior to the event by regis- What about office and “won’t take a opments.
Farragut and Knoxville, will find the early voting
tered guests. Present were a Metro foothold.” He added there’s In closing remarks Haney
locations open 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday
Republican candidates “no question of some con- said she is “a proud Demo-
Government in
Brad Anders, Glenn Jacobs solidation of services.” crat” and asked her party through Friday and from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on
and Bob Thomas along with Knox County? members to step up and Saturdays, except for the Karn’s Senior Center.
Democratic candidates The candidates for Knox Biggest problem support another voice in Cliff Rogers, Administrator of Elections, told
Rhonda “Mousie” Gallman County Mayor were asked in Knox County? the county. The Focus that the commission hopes for 50 to
and Linda Haney. about their opinions on cre- Gallman said she was 60,000 voters. He said that only about 30,000
The two questions ating a metro-type govern- When asked what the a student of politics and voted four years ago but noted that there
involved raising property ment between the county biggest problem in Knox referred people to her Face- was no opponent then in the county mayor’s
taxes in the county and the and city. County is, Anders sited book campaign. race and the sheriff was an incumbent.
possibility of a metro-type Haney replied she favors the infrastructure citing a Thomas said he has more “We’d like to see more but will be happy
government in the future. an eventual consolidation 30-year old road plan. than 30 years of business
to see the turnout doubled,” he said.
of the two governments Thomas cited the opioid experience and said he
Locations of the early voting include the small
Raise Taxes in and added she has lived in crisis and said abusers are wants a better future for his
assembly room at the City-County Building, the
Knox County? a metro-government area treated like criminals and children and grandchildren.
Love Kitchen at 2416 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.,
and it “works well.” She need a chance. Anders cited character
1645 Downtown West Blvd Unit 34, New Harvest
Haney said the county also said she understands Jacobs mentioned the and leadership, adding,
Park at 4775 New Harvest Lane, 4952 Clinton
may have to raise taxes “if that county residents would opioid problem and said the “Nobody on this stage has
Highway in the Clinton Plaza, Farragut Town Hall,
we want to advance.” Gall- probably oppose the idea. county can’t incarcerate its more experience in county
the Carter Library at 9036 Asheville Highway,
man said she might con- Anders responded that way out of it. government.”
the Halls Recreation Center at 6933 Recreation
sider it but “can’t promise.” the “county isn’t set up for Gallman cited opioids, Jacobs said that while
Anders said he wouldn’t that” and cited the cost of safety, and school safety other candidates have lots Lane, and one new location: Meridian Baptist
take raising taxes “off the it but suggested that some and said “everybody is of experience in govern- Church South at 6513 Chapman Highway.
table” and said the county departments, like Parks afraid.” ment that there “may be The Karns Senior Center, at 8024 Oak
“has no margin to operate.” and Recreation, might be Haney said the largest some things they don’t want Ridge Highway, will not be open on Saturdays
Jacobs said “No,” stating merged. problem is the education you to see.” because of other events scheduled there.
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Knoxville, TN 37923 ETBVC.com
PAGE A2 The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018
EXPERIENCE YOU NEED. RESULTS YOU WANT.
TOM SPANGLER
tomspanglerforsheriff.com
PAID FOR BY TOM SPANGLER FOR SHERIFF, DEBRA POWERS TREASURER
Amber Rountree shines at South Knox Alliance Candidate Forum
Cont. from page 1 with budget planning. go to businesses that bring helping families and chil- the county, and technology Deeds Nick McBride has
Seat 11 commission can- jobs and build economy. dren in the Juvenile Court and accessibility of public served as the Chief Deputy
discuss their plan for Knox didate Justin Biggs empha- The six Circuit Court Clerk system and wants to bring records. to the Register for over ten
County in this position, their sized the many great com- candidates were asked that experience to Knox Roger Kane was in Nash- years. He explained the role
plan for education and their panies who are looking at their plan for Knox County County. She believes that ville on legislative busi- and function of the office
feeling on tax credits. Knox County and the impor- if elected and their thoughts excellent communication ness. John King spoke on that maintains records such
Ronnie Rochelle, candi- tance of recruiting those on records being accessible and customer service are a his behalf: “If elected as as property deeds and Mil-
date for Seat 10, explained businesses. He would like to the public. priority for the office. Knox County Clerk, Roger’s itary Discharge records.
his vision and priorities for to update the road system, Bo Bennett said he plans Tim Wheeler believes that plan would include a top to If elected, he promises to
Knox County, “The number give attention to those to do what he already does his experience as deputy bottom review of the pro- continue advances in mod-
one thing we have got to areas of Knox County that on a daily basis as direc- clerk and chief deputy grams offered to see where ernization of the office, and
change is that we are trying have been overlooked tor of operations for a soft- clerk sets him apart from technology and customer to safeguard, protect and
to grow the future of Knox and work with the school ware company specializing the other candidates. One service practices need to be maintain dependable off-
County on a mountain of board to fund programs in in software systems and of his top goals would be to enhanced or improved and site backup of our vital doc-
debt.” If elected he vowed to early elementary school to efficiency for fee offices. “I work within the budget and seek the staff for advice on uments.
reduce the debt and stay on address opioid abuse and have been in these offices turn over excess fees to the how improvements should Candidate Kristi Kristy
budget allowing more fund- mental health. He would and have learned how to Knox County general fund be made. As a business faces incumbent Amber
ing for schools and road like to see tax credit pro- make them more efficient as other fee based offices leader he knows the signif- Rountree in the race for
improvements. grams stretch out across by cutting down custom- have. icance of great customer the 9th District seat on the
R. Larry Smith, candi- the county. er wait lines and decrease Don Ridings believes his service. He would like to see board of education. She
date for the at–large Seat “Economic development employee workloads and 36 years as a business the option for vehicle regis- listed her experiences as
11, promised to give top needs to spread through- save a lot of money.” owner overseeing bud- tration to be renewed every a mother and volunteer in
priority to upholding the out the county,” said Tori Scott Smith sees the gets and staff as well as two years which would save the schools where her chil-
county charter. He pointed Griffin, candidate for at- election for Circuit Court his background in IT make customers time and possi- dren attended. She shared
out Knox County is finan- large Seat 10. “East Knox Clerk as the hiring of a busi- him the best candidate bly some money.” her concern for a declining
cially sound with a triple County needs some atten- ness manager who can take for Circuit Court Clerk. He Candidate Sherry Witt’s graduation rate despite an
A bond rating. He is com- tion so it matches the rest care of dozens of employ- would like to see technolo- plans for Knox County increase in ACT scores, the
mitted to adequate pay for of the county. It is important ees and the need for some- gy changes that would give include building a team need for career and technol-
teachers, sheriff employees that we bring jobs that offer one who will be comfortable customers, judges, attor- of professionals with ogy programs in the schools
and county employees. He a livable wage. We need to managing and who under- neys and the public the abil- advanced knowledge of and the need for more coun-
claimed his personal rela- think long term 10-15 years stands HR issues. He would ity to file online while also laws of Tennessee Code selors and social workers in
tionships with city council ahead.” He told the crowd like to digitize the office for retaining the ability to file in annotated and the Knox the schools.
members, county commis- that he sees tax credits instant information when paper for those who do not County Charter and find- The candidates gave
sioners, state representa- as okay with helping small cases are delayed so that use or have access to the ing the best balance and plenty for voters to think
tives, senators and school businesses grow and devel- those involved will be noti- internet. blend of innovative technol- about as they go to the
board members will be a op as long as the county fied. Both candidates for ogy to advance the services polls. Early voting is April
great asset in open com- sees a return on the invest- Candidate Sheri Ridge- County Clerk were asked offered by this office. 11 through April 26. Elec-
munication and interacting ment. These credits need to way is experienced in to discuss their plan for Candidate for Register of tion Day is May 1.
Managing Editor ......................Rose King, [email protected] OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS EDITION ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHORS
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PAGE A2 The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018 April 9, 2018 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE A3
Publisher’s Position
Ethics Committee Witch-Hunt Outrageous
refused to cooperate with fair and impartial, only ethics committee is being election reveals something has worked with Jonathan
the thorough investigation begrudgingly giving attor- used for a political witch- at the very least slightly dis- Cooper. Whether the other
completed by Law Director neys representing Thomas hunt to injure candidates turbing. This hearing is not members of the ethics
Bud Armstrong’s office. a continuance, a courtesy inside the primary. about right or wrong; it is
committee will allow them-
At the heart of this com- routinely granted by every This is not the first time not about fairness, nor is it
selves to be influenced
plaint lies political motiva- court in the land when an ethics body has been really determining whether
remains to be seen.
tion, something Bo Bennett sought the first time. As used for political purposes there has been an actual
When a community’s
denies. Yet Bennett was Cooper is himself an attor- and sadly, it likely will not ethics violation. It is about
defeated in a bid for the ney, it is hardly a concept be the last. The most fun- allowing the Knoxville News ethics committee allows
Knox County Commission that could be foreign to damental aspect of Ameri- Sentinel to construct its itself to be swayed so easily
four years ago by Charles him. It is surpassingly curi- can justice is the right of own series of events based and again - - - the only “evi-
Busler and is off and run- ous that the date selected any person accused of not on facts, but to push its dence” is a story appearing
By Steve Hunley,
ning for Circuit Court Clerk by Cooper for the hearing, either an infraction of the own narrative. The Senti-
in the Knoxville News Sen-
Publisher
this year. Bob Thomas is a April 13, was precisely the law or a serious crime is to nel has done the very same
tinel - - - it raises the ques-
[email protected] candidate for Knox County one day when Thomas’s be represented by compe- thing with Mayor Tim Bur-
tion of justice having been
The ethics complaint mayor in the Republican attorney had a full sched- tent legal counsel and face chett recently. Is there any
circumvented, if not down-
filed by perennial candi- primary on May 1. It takes ule of court appearances. his or her accuser. The very objective person in Knox
date Bo Bennett against little imagination and even There are provisions idea Bo Bennett is merely County who believes the right perverted. It raises
Knox County Commission- less credulity to deduce the which are supposed to pro- a good Samaritan pushing editor of the News Sentinel the question of the consti-
ers Charles Busler and Bob charges are politically moti- tect people when an ethics a complaint solely out of hasn’t carried out a shame- tutional rights of individu-
Thomas has gone from a vated, nor would it be the complaint is filed - - - the his righteous conviction is less vendetta against Bur- als having been trampled.
circus sideshow to an out- first time ethics complaints nine member panel must utterly preposterous. Per- chett in the pages of the
The county commission
rageous witch-hunt. Ben- were filed for political rea- vote unanimously to find haps the only thing more daily newspaper?
clearly needs to pay more
nett’s complaint was based sons. Bennett’s complaint an ethics violation and all preposterous is the fact the The series of articles
attention to the quality of
upon little more than a barely reaches the level nine must be present for complaint is manufactured appearing in the Senti-
people selected to serve
news story in the Knoxville of “hearsay” evidence, as the vote. Apparently Jona- through a story appearing nel about the county’s
News Sentinel, allowing the the source was the original than Cooper finds that lan- in the Knoxville News Sen- ambulance contract, the on the ethics committee,
joyous opportunity for the story in the Knoxville News guage ambiguous or simply tinel. gold tournament and people of integrity and abil-
Sentinel to feast on its own Sentinel. If you are dizzy doesn’t care. There is a Clearly Jonathan Cooper Bob Thomas and Charles ity, who are immune to pop-
carrion. Even at the root of by this point, it is precisely rush to come to some kind and some members of the Busler have rearranged ular opinion and coverage
the complaint, once politics because this is as circular of finding before the May 1 ethics committee care little facts, completely ignored
by local news media. Like
is set aside, is a golf tour- as a bowling ball. primary. Is there any reason about even the appearance other facts, and pushed a
Caesar’s wife, the ethics
nament sponsored by none The hearing by the Knox the ethics committee could of fairness and impartiality. narrative, to put it kindly,
committee should be
other than the News Sen- County Ethics Committee not have a full hearing and That alone is cause enough that simply isn’t true. Clear-
above reproach. Otherwise
tinel. The reporter writing last week was little more come to a finding on any for concern considering just ly, the Sentinel hopes to
the flow of stories result- than a travesty of justice. date after the May 1 prima- what an ethics committee affect the outcome of the it will not mete out justice,
ing from the complaint for Chairman Jonathan Cooper ry election? Apparently not, should be; the rush to judg- ethics committee hear- but retribution for someone
the News Sentinel, flatly seemed to be anything but which raises the notion the ment before the primary ing. Evidently that strategy else’s political gain.
Knoxville Breakfast Rotary Club
26th Annual Wildflower Sale
April 14, 2018, Saturday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Rocky Hill Center, 7545 S. Northshore Dr.
(next to Sullivan’s)
This is a major fund raiser for the Knoxville Breakfast
Rotary Club, with proceeds going to Rotary service
projects.
There will be various spring and summer blooming,
perennial, wildflower seedlings to choose from.
For additional information contact: Greg Maciolek at 865-675-5901 or
David Beaman at 865-691-7865 or 865-691-9907.
www.knoxvillebreakfastrotary.org
PAGE A4 The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018
Potential Knoxville veterans hospital in limbo, other services available
By Mike Steely
[email protected] Tallent Center near West The Veterans Service Veterans of America, the
Town Mall. Office visits various com- Wounded Warrior Project,
While it appears a veter- Duncan’s Deputy Chief of munity centers to help vet- Veterans of Foreign Wars,
ans hospital for Knoxville is Staff Don Walker told The erans. A representative will AmVets, Operation Home
in limbo there are several Focus recently that the con- be at the O’Connor Center Front, Knoxville Veterans
other services available to gressman met with the VA on April 9th at 10 a.m., Center, Women Veterans,
veterans and their families last summer and said a vet- Corryton on April 10th at VA’s Tallent Center, Ameri-
in our area. eran’s hospital here “is not 10 a.m., Strang Center on can Legion, East Tennes-
Back in July of 2016 Con- an if, it’s a when” for our April 12th at 11 a.m. The see Military Council, Fleet
gressman John Duncan area. Powell Center will be visit- Reserve Association, Stand
said he was working on “We’re looking for a ed on April 17th, Halls on Down, and Rolling Thunder.
the possibility of a Veter- better place and have a April 18th, South Knox- You can find these organi-
ans Hospital in Knoxville commitment from the VA ville on April 19th, Karns zations and others on the
with the idea, then, of pos- to do something,” Walker on April 29th, the VA Out- internet and on Facebook.
sibly using the former St. said. patient Clinic on April 24th The Knoxville Bar Associ-
Mary’s Hospital on Broad- Knox County Veteran Ser- and Carter on April 25th. ation established a month-
way. Since then Tennova vice Officer Tom Humphries You can call the Knox ly Veterans’ Legal Advice
has announced it is not says his office provides help County Office at (865) 215- Clinic.
building a new hospital in to veterans for various pro- 5645 or email them at vet- The Recovery Court is
West Knoxville and plans grams. Those include com- [email protected] or a special court given the
to keep the old St. Mary’s pensation for service con- find the Veterans Service responsibility to handle
facility. nected disabilities, pension Office online at www.knox- cases involving substance- Douglas F. Cunha is a volunteer with the Veteran’s Pre-
The Knoxville Focus programs for housebound county.org/veterans/. abusing offenders through College Program. He’s the Outreach Specialists who helps
asked Congressman Dun- aid and attendance, health The office is open comprehensive supervi- veterans prepare and qualify for college and is on duty one
can’s office if he is still benefits enrollment, burial Monday through Friday sion, drug testing, treat- day a week at the Tallent VA Center. You can reach Cunha
hoping to get a VA hospital benefits including flags, from 7:30 until 4:30 and ment services and imme- at [phone] or email him at [email protected].
for Knoxville. Currently vet- headstones, markers and is located at 1000 North diate sanctions and incen-
erans must drive to John- military honors, vocational Central Street in the former tives. counsel, substance abuse vocational experts, com-
son City to the Jimmy Quil- habitation and dependents Sears Building. The Recovery Court Pro- treatment specialists, pro- munity leaders and others)
lian VA facility there for any education assistance and Other organizations avail- gram brings the full weight bation officers, law enforce- to bear, allowing the offend-
medical service other than notices of disagreements able to veterans in our of all interveners (judges, ment and correctional per- er to deal with his or her
basic walk-in care at the and denial of claims. area include the Vietnam prosecutors, defense sonnel, educational and substance abuse problem.
Ethics committee could affect Republican Primary
By Mike Steely
[email protected] both men had benefited to handle those and said their clients.” Schoonmak- Committee member will be under oath, evidence
financially from playing in a that Garza was presenting er’s remark was chided by Billy Stevens said that the may be presented but the
In a decision that could News-Sentinel golf match “vague assertions” in order committee member Barba- matter should be “resolved chair can rule some evi-
well affect the upcom- on the Premier Ambulance to delay the hearing. ra Chandler. She said was as soon as possible to pro- dence inadmissible, and
ing Republican Primary team and Bennett charged Garza again asked for the “not impressed” with Gar- tect the election process.” the ethics members may
for Knox County mayor, that both Thomas and hearing to be held May 31 za’s requests. “I’m not trying to rush question witnesses.
the chairman of the Knox Busler had voted against saying that Friday, April 13 Ethics member Michael their decision, it’s difficult Any decision reached by
County Ethics Committee extending Rural/Metro was “unreasonable to me.” Covington said there was for me,” Cooper said but the ethics committee must
has set this Friday for the AMR’s ambulance contract Cooper told Garza to a “dogged determination added, “There will be no be unanimous but Cooper
hearing on a complaint with the county. “arrange your other court to find out more with a full further continuance with- said that members who
against Commissioners The law director ruled dates.” blown hearing.” out good reason.” have not heard all the evi-
Bob Thomas and Charles that since Bennett had not Garza said that neither Member Jennifer Roche Cooper then summarized dence cannot vote. He also
Busler. witnessed the event and Thomas nor Busler were said it was obvious that the what should happen during ruled that “unanimous”
Ethics Chairman Jon- would not name witnesses attending because it was attorneys were not ready the hearing, noting that means a quorum of mem-
athan Cooper, an attor- that the charge was ground- thought the meeting was and the parties in the com- the complainant has the bers if a few are absent.
ney, and Thomas’ attorney less. to schedule the hearing. He plaint were not present. burden of proof, testimony
Marcos Garza confronted Nevertheless Chairman said that getting a continu-
each other during Wednes- Cooper last month proceed- ance was normal in a court WWIINNDDSSOORR
day’s committee meeting. ed to call a meeting of the of law. Cooper responded,
Garza said that the notice ethics group and request “We’re not in a court of law.” GGAARRDDEENNSS
for the public meeting last that Thomas and Busler He said continuing the hear-
week stated the event was be present with legal rep- ing was inconvenient for the
ASSISTED LIVING
a “scheduling meeting” and resentation. Neither com- 12 ethics members.
not advertising as a hear- missioner appeared and “You’ve only had 30       •    
ing. He said that he and Busler’s attorney was out days to prepare,” Schoon-        •   
Busler’s attorney were not of town on other legal mat- maker said, adding “The        •    
ready to present their cli- ters Wednesday morning. attorneys are here trying       •   
ents’ case and asked that Cooper went into detail to do the right thing for      •  
the hearing be scheduled about the charges and        •  
in late June or late May, fol- the committee’s obliga-  •      
RONNIE ELECT
lowing the May 1 Republi- tion. After 90 minutes of R
OCHELLE
can Primary. discourse between him Come... Let Us
Thomas, a candidate for and Garza, Cooper began
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Knox County mayor, was asking ethics members Treat You Like
CCOOMMMMIISSSSIIOONNEERR
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Royalty.
Richard “Bo” Bennett, who chose the April 13th date.
AT LARGE SEAT 10
had been an opponent of He invoked his powers as
ronnierochelle.com
Busler for a county com- chair to set the date and no
North Knoxville’s Premier
mission seat in 2014. Law vote was taken by the other
Assisted Living Community
Director Richard “Bud” members.
Armstrong reported to the When Garza informed [phone] 18 Years!
ethics committee back in the committee that he had
March on Bennett’s charg- other legal cases sched- 5611 Central Ave. Pike
es and that he found no vio- uled that day, Cooper sug-
voteronnierochelle Conveniently located at Exit 108 (Merchants Rd.) off I-75
lation of the code of ethics. gested that he assign
@ronrochelle
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Ronnie Rochelle, Treasurer
TERM LIMITS
Government is like compost, you
have to turn it over from time to
time or it begins to stink and rot. I have term
limited myself and will only run my two terms
in Knox County and retire. That is the spirit
of term limits that the voters in Knox County
overwhelmingly support.
Early voting begins April 11, 2018. Election Day is May 1, 2018.
PAID FOR BY COMMITTEE TO ELECT ROGER KANE, RANDY ALLEN TREASURER
April 9, 2018 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE B1
April 9, 2018
Plans made to
preserve scenic
Governor John
Sevier Highway
By Pete Gawda
Another step was taken Thursday evening, April 5
toward the preservation of scenic Governor John Sevier
Highway (JSH) with a meeting of the stakeholders com-
mittee. The highway, designated State Route 168,
runs through southern and eastern Knox County from
Alcoa Highway to Asheville Highway.
Since 1971 the JSH has been designated as part of
the State of Tennessee’s Scenic Highways. However,
this program only regulates building height, signage
and junkyards within 1,000 and 2,000 feet of the high-
way. Concerns about population growth, traffic and
development along the JSH corridor led the Knoxville-
Knox County Metropolitan Planning Commission to PHOTO COURTESY OF PAIGE TRAVIS, CITY OF KNOXVILLE
begin studying the highway in June of 2017. As a result Community Development Director Becky Wade and Mayor Madeline Rogero honored Michael Haynes Construction
an 18-member stakeholder committee, led by Knox for providing affordable housing in Lonsdale. Pictured, left to right, are Wade, Rogero, Debra Haynes, Michael
County Commissioner Carson Dailey, was formed. Haynes and Senior Project Specialist Kathy Ellis.
Since its formation the committee has met several
times to discuss challenges to the JSH corridor. Five honored with Equity Awards
The purpose of the April 5 meeting was to review
comments from more than 70 people who attended a
By Mike Steely
public meeting on the JSH corridor on March 4, accord- housing principals, prohibiting dis- from federal funding. Projects qual-
[email protected]
ing to MPC staff member Liz Albertson, who moderat- crimination concerning the sale, ifying must meet specific rules like
ed the meeting. Five companies and individuals rental or financing of housing based creating projects that comply with
Dailey asserted that the purpose of the stakeholders were honored recently at the annual on race, religion, national origin, Housing and Urban Development
committee was not to stop development along the JSH “Equity Awards” breakfast. The city familiar status, color, disability or rules and the hiring of local people
corridor but to encourage quality development. “We recognized partners and projects sex.” in the creation of new jobs.
are growing in the right way,” he said. that feature fair and affordable She said those honored are exem- Michael Haynes Construction
The number one concern expressed by the public was housing, job creation, and access plary for their positive effects on was honored for contributing high-
protection of trees along the JSH. Albertson said that and inclusion for persons with their neighborhoods and the entire qualify rental homes, four of which
currently there are few, if any, landscaping requirements. disabilities. city. were in the Lonsdale Community on
Tree protection is not required. Another major concern Mayor Madeline Rogero said the City funding of projects, as low- lots purchased through the city’s
Continue on page 2 city “remains committed to fair interest forgivable loans, comes Continue on page 4
First Creek Greenway inching its way north
By Mike Steely
[email protected] beside the Lynnwood Cemetery.
Someday several years from now Currently plans call for that part of the
you will be able to walk or bike from greenway to link up with the future
Fountain City all the way downtown. It’s extension of the Fountain City greenway
years away but plans are certainly in the at Old Broadway.
works. Hester said the next step on the First
In the interim the First Creek Creek Greenway project is to connect
Greenway is, step by step, inching its the North and South portions of the cur-
way north. Last week Mayor Madeline rent greenway and then move north to
Rogero and others cut the ribbon to offi- eventually link with the Adair Park and
cially open the new path connecting Fountain City greenways.
Fulton High School at Woodland Avenue The new connection was funded by
to Edgewood Park. The new trail connec- $1.4 million from two federal grants
tion, across Broadway, adds a scenic through the state and the Knoxville
bridge over First Creek and opening Regional Transportation Planning
access on the paved path to hundreds Organization. The city put $406,000 in
of North Knoxville homes to the North the project. The new trail segment, just
Knoxville Library, the Larry Cox Senior over ½ miles long, contributes to the cur-
Center and Broadway Shopping Center. rent 112 miles of paved greenways and
Tim Hester, Parks and Greenway trails in the city.
Coordinator, told The Focus that plans The Broadway Corridor Task Force sup-
PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHLEEN GIBI, CITY OF KNOXVILLE.
are underway to link up the Adair Park ported securing the ten easements in
Mayor Madeline Rogero, surrounded by city employees and council members, cuts the
Greenway to Old Broadway where the front of Fulton High School to complete
ribbon opening a link of the First Creek Greenway that now connects Fulton High School
path will run along the creek there Continue on page 2
to Edgewood Park.
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PAGE B2 The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018
CNB opens branch next to Kroger in Seymour
Joseph W. Martin of Massachusetts
Citizens National Bank cel- connection between the client
ebrated the grand opening of and their banker. Conversations
its newest branch with a ribbon or transactions that require
cutting ceremony on Friday, more privacy can be conduct-
March 30. ed in the manager’s office.
CNB’s newest branch is locat- “This unique space is moving
ed in Seymour next to Kroger
CNB to a better customer ser-
at 10721 Chapman Highway,
vice model,” said David C.
Suite 1, in the Seymour Kroger
Verble. “It provides a custom-
Shopping Center.
er experience that is welcom-
The branch offers a full range
ing, efficient, and emphasizes
of CNB products and services,
the relationship CNB is continu-
including checking and savings
ing to build with our clients and
accounts, CDs, IRAs, business
community.”
products and loans. Hours of
Citizens National Bank has
operation for this location are
proudly served its communi- By Ray Hill
Monday through Friday 10:00
a.m.-7:00 p.m. and Saturday ties since 1973 and celebrat- [email protected]
ed its 45th Anniversary on
8:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.
The open floor plan features February 5, 2018. CNB is a
teller pods that allow the CNB locally owned community bank
team to stand shoulder to with 21 branch locations and Front row pictured L to R: Mackenzie Roberts, Retail Branch Manager; Jodi Ramsey, Marketing Director;
shoulder with the patrons while over $1 billion in assets as of Kevin Kilpatrick, CNB Board Member; Greg Patterson, Sevier County Trustee; Mike Comer, EVP and Chief
they are serving them, empha- March 31, 2018. For a branch Operating Officer; Jason Holliman, SVP and Chief Financial Officer; and Larry Waters, Sevier County
sizing and strengthening the near you, visit CNBTN.com. Mayor.
Easter Bonnet
My, how times On Easter our shoes did as well after several rounds of Easter fake grass were put in the much excitement. The smell
change. I haven’t morning, we put a fresh coat of polish and a egg hunting took place until attic to wait until the next of vinegar in the kitchen on
heard the song our clothes on good brushing. Sunday dinner was ready. We holiday. Saturday night as we col-
“In Your Easter and went out- We rode the short dis- stayed in the house until a These days, lots of folks ored eggs and dyed-stained
Bonnet” in years. side for family pic- tance to church and attend- parent or our older brother don’t attend Easter church fingertips on Sunday morn-
A lifetime ago, tures. Daddy wore ed Sunday School. All of hid the eggs and then burst services. Their children have ing still remain vivid memo-
children sang it in his suit, some- our friends were dressed in through the door to look all new clothes and shoes ries. Hunting eggs with Jim
school and com- thing much dif- their new clothes as well. over our large yard for them. throughout the year, so the and Dal brings a smile, and
panies included it ferent from the Girls wore crinolines under Without fail, one or two eggs excitement of having new the whole family sitting at
in their marketing daily work clothes dresses of yellow, baby blue remained hidden until a lawn outfits is gone. Families that round kitchen table to
strategies. Other By Joe Rector he wore. Mother or white. Their hands were mower shredded them in the still take the opportunity to share a meal sometimes
[email protected]
things during wore a dress covered in white gloves. Boys summer and spewed a foul gather for a meal and vis- makes me long for those old
Easter are much she’d made for sometimes wore sport coats, smell everywhere. iting. Some children hunt days. The good thing is that
different as well. the occasion. We’d been to but most often, they suffered Mother refrigerated the eggs on Sunday, although because of the resurrection
My brothers and I always Cooper and Baldwin’s bar- with dress shirts buttoned at colored eggs, and we boys many attend large egg hunt- of Christ, I have a chance
got a little excited as Easter bershop in Lonsdale on the neck so that clip-on ties ate a few. Then she’d take ing events on the Saturday to reunite someday with all
approached. We knew that Saturday to make sure our could be attached. Easter several and make egg salad before and are tired of the those who have passed. For
Mother would take us down- hair was cut in short flat tops. was the one day when all of for sandwiches for school activity by the time Easter the time being, I’ll enjoy my
town to shop. At least a new Daddy always said he didn’t us looked cute, no matter lunch. At some point, Easter arrives. Baskets are bought wonderful life with Amy and
pair of pants and maybe one want to see us with long hair how uncomfortable we felt eggs with battered and shat- but not saved for the next my children and other family
of our two pairs of shoes for or dirty shoes, so by Easter or how bad we appeared the tered shells were thrown year. members, and I’ll give thanks
the year were purchased morning, our scalps shone rest of the year. upon the scrap pile in the I miss those old days for it.
then. through G.I. type buzzes and When we returned home, back yard. Baskets and the when Easter brought so
Plans made to preserve scenic Gov. John Sevier Highway
First Creek Greenway
Cont. from page 1
business owners associa- according to Albertson, contact Albertson at the
was to keep farms and tion be formed. The public could be to hold another MPC by emailing liz.albert-
inching its way north
open space along the JSH. expressed concern for pro- public meeting to inform [email protected] or call-
Citizens also expressed a tection of historic areas. To the public of possible ing 865-215-3804.
Cont. from page 1
need to provide standards emphasize the historical actions, then develop rec- The stakeholder com- Avenue intersection on
for the look of new build- significance of the corridor ommendations and con- mittee consists of Terry the project. Broadway.
ings. Albertson said that the meeting was held in the duct workshops with the Barnwell, Mike Brown, “This trail will help bring More information on the
currently there is no design 1794 Ramsey House, the MPC and county commis- Jim Buckenmyer, Carson neighborhoods together city’s current greenways
guidance for the facades of home of prominent early sion to refine proposed Dailey, Art Dyer, Bob as part of one communi- and future plans are avail-
new buildings. settler Francis Alexander regulations with the view Dykes, Joyce Feld, John ty and encourage health- able at www.knovilletn.
Concern was also Ramsey, which is locat- of the MPC making recom- Gammon, Tim Graham, ier lifestyles,” said Sheryl gov/greenways.
expressed about traffic ed just off the JSH on mendations to the county Buddy Gregory, Cherry Ely, Director of Parks and
safety. It was noted that Thorngrove Pike. Concern commission for their Johnson, Mike Todd, D.J. Recreation. Funding has
future plans call for the was also expressed for approval. Krahwinkel, Judy LaRose, been approved and set
widening of the JSH from new standards for signage Those wishing more Ted Lewis, Jan Loveday- aside for the next First
Alcoa Highway to Chapman along the corridor. information about the Dickens, Mark Mugford, Creek Greenway exten-
Highway. It was also sug- The next step in the JSH corridor or wishing to Jim Sturdavan and Bob sion, a .9 mile segment
gested that a property and preservation process, submit comments should Thompson. from Fulton to the Cecil
April 9, 2018 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE B3
Joseph W. Martin of Massachusetts
Pages from the Past
take part in any contest
for the Republican lead-
ership in the House of
Representatives. Without
the active or tacit support
of Eisenhower, Joe Martin
was vulnerable.
Halleck beat Joe Martin
and a dejected and sur-
prised Martin left the
Republican caucus
depressed.
A bachelor his entire life,
Joe Martin neither drank
By Ray Hill
alcohol, smoked or even
[email protected]
danced. According to the
late Doorkeeper of the
From 1931 until 1947, delivery boy. Over time,
House, William “Fishbait”
the Republican Party Martin would become
Miller, Martin “didn’t do any-
had suffered shattering the editor and finally the
thing.” Serving in Congress
defeats largely brought on publisher of the newspa-
was pretty much the sum
by the Great Depression. per. Martin was offered a
total of Joe Martin’s life.
Following the 1936 elec- scholarship to Dartmouth
Following his defeat by
tion, where GOP presiden- College, but preferred to
Halleck, Joe Martin was
tial candidate Alf Landon remain at the Evening
something of a lonely and
only won the electoral votes Chronicle, as he helped
pitiful figure. While still
of Vermont and Maine, his parents put his brothers
a member of Congress,
Republicans in the House through school. Earning
Martin was bereft of the
much excitement. The smell of Representatives consti- $10 a week as an employ-
of vinegar in the kitchen on tuted only 88 members. ee of the paper, he saved power he had once exer-
Saturday night as we col- Throughout the decade his money and bought the cised as Speaker and
ored eggs and dyed-stained of the 1920s, Republicans Evening Chronicle, which Republican leader. For the
fingertips on Sunday morn-had enjoyed healthy major- he kept for the rest of his rest of his Congressional
ing still remain vivid memo-ities in both houses of life. career, Joe Martin was rel-
ries. Hunting eggs with Jim Congress, which had been By 1912, Martin had egated to the sidelines.
and Dal brings a smile, and progressively thinned out been elected to serve in Martin contented him-
the whole family sitting at until the Democrats con- the Massachusetts House self by penning a lively and
that round kitchen table to trolled both the House of of Representatives and entertaining autobiography
share a meal sometimes Representatives and the won a promotion two years entitled, My First Fifty Years
FROM THE AUTHOR’S PERSONAL COLLECTION
makes me long for those old United States Senate. The later to the State Senate. In Politics. Congressman
Photo of Speaker Joe Martin autographed to a fellow Congressman.
days. The good thing is that last Republican Speaker Joe Martin chose not to run Martin remained some-
because of the resurrection of the House had been again in 1916. what bitter about the lack
of Christ, I have a chance Nicholas Longworth of Martin had been out of The 1942 midterm Missouri waged the kind of unlike many Republican of support he had received
to reunite someday with all Ohio. A highly personal- office for eight years when elections reduced the campaign Dewey himself senators who surprised the from President Eisenhower
those who have passed. For ly popular Congressman, he challenged eighty-three number of Democrats in should have run and won former general by opposing in losing his leadership
the time being, I’ll enjoy my Nick Longworth was year-old incumbent in the Congress even further the election, much to the many of his initiatives. Had position.
wonderful life with Amy and known for his marriage to Republican primary and and Joe Martin’s coali- surprise of almost every- it not been for the frequent Charlie Halleck would
my children and other family Alice Roosevelt, the tart won. Joe Martin would tion of Republicans and one. Even more shocking, cooperation of Democratic suffer an almost identical
members, and I’ll give thanks tongued eldest child of the remain in Congress for Southern Democrats grew the Democrats won back leader Lyndon B. Johnson,
fate to that of Joe Martin.
for it. late President Theodore more than forty years. more powerful. Martin control of both houses Ike would have had a very
After the Republicans
Roosevelt. Longworth, Martin worked his way up was quite friendly with his of Congress. Joe Martin difficult time getting any-
lost the 1964 elections,
bald, mustachioed and an through the GOP ranks and counterpart, Speaker of the would have to surrender thing done.
a group of young con-
accomplished violinist, was when Republican leader House Sam Rayburn. The the Speaker’s gavel back Joe Martin’s political
gressmen would support
also known for his sense of Bertram Snell of New York two were warm personal to Sam Rayburn. undoing was the 1958
Congressman Gerald Ford
fun. Longworth had died retired in 1938, Joe Martin friends. Things would change elections. Off year elec-
of Michigan and topple him
suddenly in 1931 and due was selected to succeed After losing another elec- again in 1952 when the tions are historically hard
from his leadership role.
to the deaths of several him. The 1938 elections tion in 1944 to Franklin hugely popular Dwight D. on the party in power and
Yet there was one final
other GOP congressmen had improved the fortunes Roosevelt, the GOP made Eisenhower won the GOP the United States had sunk
bitter disappointment
and a series of special elec- of House Republicans, as a spectacular comeback presidential nomination into a deep recession,
awaiting Joe Martin.
tions won by Democrats, they had won 72 seats in in 1946, running on the in a bitter contest with making it much more diffi-
Past eighty, in precarious
John Nance Garner of that fall. slogan of “Had Enough?” “Mr. Republican,” Ohio cult for Republican incum-
health, Congressman Joe
Texas became Speaker of Congressman Martin It was a reference to the Senator Robert Alphonso bents that year. The 1958
Martin was challenged in
the House. was, as might be expected, deprivations suffered by Taft. Taft had competed elections was a disaster for
the 1966 Republican pri-
Not until 1947 would largely opposed to Franklin Americans throughout for the Republican presi- the GOP. Republicans lost
mary by Margaret Heckler.
the Republican reclaim a Roosevelt’s New Deal, but World War II. Shortages dential nomination twice thirteen seats in the U. S.
Mrs. Heckler, a perky red-
majority in the House of he demonstrated consider- of meat, butter, tires, before and lost. Many Senate; just a year later, the
head, was a very attrac-
Representatives. From able ability in working with women’s stockings and Republicans realized it was Democrats would win three
1931 until 1995, the GOP the majority Democrats many other items vexed Taft’s last chance to seek of the four Senate races for tive candidate and had
only managed to retain a when necessary. Long Americans and President the presidency and despite the newly admitted states served on the governor’s
majority of Congress twice marginalized, Martin Harry Truman was unpop- being a sentimental favor- of Alaska and Hawaii. The Council in Massachusetts.
and then only for two years helped to forge an alliance ular. 1946 was one of ite of many delegates, even debacle in the House of Forty-six years younger
each time. with conservative Southern those rare tidal wave elec- more believed Eisenhower Representatives was little than Congressman Martin
Joseph W. Martin was Democrats, which gave tions and the GOP gained could bring them victory. better, as the Republicans at the time, Mrs. Heckler
the Republican leader in both a voice in the House control of both the House Unfortunately, Taft was lost forty-eight seats. The radiated youth and vigor.
Congress from 1939 until and made that voting bloc of Representatives and the not destined to live much defeat was staggering for Martin, realizing he was in
1959. a force to be reckoned United States Senate. longer, dying of cancer the the GOP. trouble, announced if elect-
At the time of his death, with. Martin’s own voting Joe Martin was elected following year. Disgruntled Republicans ed, it would be his last term
one obituary writer com- record was hardly reaction- Speaker of the House by General Eisenhower’s who had been fortunate in office. Although Martin
mented that Joe Martin ary, as he had voted for the his Republican colleagues, personal popularity enabled enough to survive the was no mossback, Mrs.
had “one of the black- Social Security legislation, ousting Sam Rayburn. him to make inroads in 1958 elections were rum- Heckler was not only more
est scowls and brightest although he was deeply As the 1948 elections some Southern states; he bling louder about replac- modern, but also more lib-
smiles in Congress.” opposed to the Tennessee approached, Republicans carried Tennessee, Texas, ing Joe Martin as the GOP eral. The challenger effec-
That same author point- Valley Authority. were utterly confident of Virginia and Florida. With leader in the House. At tively used press clipping
ed out something rather In 1940, Joe Martin holding their majorities in Eisenhower’s election, the first, Martin foolishly dis- gleaned from Joe Martin’s
curious about Joe Martin’s assumed the Chairmanship Congress, as well as elect- House and Senate reverted missed the rumblings as own first race against an
long Congressional career: of the Republican National ing New York governor back to GOP control. Once just a few unhappy young eighty-three year-old oppo-
“Yet despite his acknowl- Committee, at the request Thomas E. Dewey presi- again, Joe Martin was elect- congressmen. The bur-
nent. There were accu-
edged political abilities and of GOP presidential nomi- dent. Nobody seemed ed Speaker of the House. geoning revolt was actual-
sations Martin was in ill
leadership, Representative nee Wendell Willkie. It was more confident than Dewey Yet again, it was but ly spearheaded by Indiana
health and was spending
Martin never had his name an experience that some- himself and while he had a brief interlude. The Congressman Charles
more time in Florida than
on an important piece of what dismayed the little run a good race against 1954 elections reversed Halleck, the Minority Whip
in Washington, D. C.
legislation; never made a man from Massachusetts, that champion vote-get- Republican fortunes and in the House. Halleck had
It was a hard fought cam-
memorable speech; never having been a rock-ribbed ter, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Martin had to vacate the considered challenging
paign and while Joe Martin
achieved the fame or public Republican all his life, espe- Dewey did not wage a hard Speaker’s chair for Sam Joe Martin for the top spot
struggled, in the end, he
affection of his Democratic cially as Willkie had been a hitting campaign. Rather, Rayburn. The Texan was at least a couple of times
lost.
counterpart, Sam Rayburn Democrat for the most of Dewey campaigned almost magnanimous to Martin before, but could not get
I r o n i c a l l y ,
of Texas.” his own life. Willkie ran as if he were an incumbent. and pointed out they had past President Eisenhower,
Congresswoman Heckler
Joseph W. Martin was a much better than had the Speaker Martin accompa- switched offices so fre- who did not look favorably
would be confronted by a
diminutive, rather dumpy previous two Republican nied Dewey on several of quently that perhaps upon deposing Martin.
more progressive oppo-
little fellow who had first presidential nominees, the nominee’s trips across Martin should continue Halleck gave a quiet
nent herself when she was
been elected to Congress Herbert Hoover and Alf the country and it was to occupy the Speaker’s dinner for three White
redistricted into a district
in 1924, after climbing Landon, but still lost deci- Martin’s elderly mother sumptuous suite of offices House aides and casual-
with Congressman Barney
the political ladder in his sively to Franklin Roosevelt, who surprised everyone in case they had to move ly brought up the topic of
Frank. Heckler would lose
native North Attleboro, despite some resistance to by scolding the governor once again. For the rest replacing Joe Martin as
that race and go on to serve
Massachusetts. Martin FDR seeking a third term. about his campaign strat- of his time as Republican Republican leader. None of
worked very hard through- Martin got some unwant- egy. Mrs. Martin told a sur- leader, Joe Martin occu- the three were ready to say in the Cabinet of President
out his life; he had been ed attention during that prised Thomas E. Dewey he pied the Speaker’s office, the president would sup- Ronald Reagan.
a good enough athlete to campaign when President could not merely assume irrespective of whether he port removing Martin. Just After losing his seat in
play for a semiprofessional Roosevelt made a famous he was as good as elected. actually was the Speaker of a few days later, the situa- Congress, Joe Martin’s
baseball team and earned speech excoriating the The outspoken old woman the House. tion changed. Apparently health continued to dete-
the princely sum of $10 per GOP, repeatedly using the informed Governor Dewey Joe Martin had done surprised by the scope of riorate and he lived just
game. He was still only a phrase, “Martin, Barton he was far too complacent. everything he possibly the Republican defeat, over a year after leaving
lad when he began work- and Fish,” three Republican Her prediction proved to could to advance President President Eisenhower Congress. Joe Martin died
ing for the North Attleboro congressmen, that was be all too accurate. The Eisenhower’s legisla- made it clear to Charles on March 6, 1968.
Evening Chronicle as a highly effective. scrappy little man from tive agenda in the House, Halleck he would not
PAGE B4 The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018
Holston Middle School’s Kids in America Show Choir presents Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s
Pictures
‘Mary Poppins Jr.’
of cast by
Harvey
Elkins,
provided
Get your tickets! Show time is almost April 12, and Friday, April 13, at 6:30 p.m. by Taylor
here! There are two opportunities to see the Branson,
Lots of hard work and hours of prac- show on Saturday, April 14---at 2:30 and Production
tice will all come together under the 6:30 p.m. Tickets at the door are $10 for Coordinator
leadership of Natalee Elkins, Director/ adults and $5 for students and senior citi-
Musical Director; Daniel Lineberger, zens. Online reserved seating is available
Director/Choreographer; Taylor Branson, at: holstonms.seatyourself.biz.
Production Coordinator; and Emily Carr, Mark your calendars! There surely
Production Assistant, as the talented will be lots of fun and excitement and
cast of Holston Middle School’s Kids in plenty of magic and music on “Cherry
By Ralphine Major America Show Choir presents Disney and Tree Lane” at Holston Middle School, 600
ralphine3@yahoo. Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins Jr. Chilhowee Drive, in Knoxville, Tennessee,
com
Show dates and times are Thursday, April 12-14, 2018!
Five honored with
Equity Awards
Cont. from page 1
Operations Director Jimmy
Homemaker Program, which Stone was honored for
encourages turning blighted reaching out to the Autism
property into safe and attrac- Breakthrough Organization
tive homes. to increase employment for
HomeSource East people with disabilities. Over
Tennessee was recognized the past two years ORNL
for purchasing and renovat- has provided mentoring and
ing the Normandy Chateau hands-on work experience to
apartment complex near numerous job seekers, creat-
Adair Park in Fountain City. ing interns who are popular
Thirty-seven units of afford- and in high demand.
able rental housing had been Sanders Place Architecture
improved, allowing exist- was noted for transform-
ing tenants to remain living ing the city’s urban land-
there. scape with modern designs,
Developer Joe Fix, archi- such as the Tombras Group
tect Nathan Honeycutt and Headquarters on Gay Street.
Pictured, left to right, are staff members of Windsor Gardens Assisted Living who have worked there for more than
contractor Brett Honeycutt The “Pressroom” event
ten years: Lisa Duncan, 18.2 years; Rebecca Oliver, 11.1 years; Jeannene Harness, 17.6 years; Michael Newport,
were featured for using space on Broadway and the
18.1 years; Brian Bartley, owner, 18+ years; Zelma Newport, 18.1 years; Karen Dyer, 10.3 years; Dina Beeler, 10.3
findings from the Façade Lock & Key and Steamboat
years; Andy Strickland, 15.1 years; and Maxine Smith, 10.2 years.
Improvement Program to Sandwich location on North
help transform a building on Central were examples. The
Windsor Gardens celebrates 18th year,
the corner of North Broadway firm also designed many of
into the wrap-around visage the city’s commercial façade
of Elkmont Exchange Brewery projects.
hard-working staff members
and Eating House. The busi- More information about
ness created 130 new jobs, the city’s Community Design
Windsor Gardens Assisted Living is very proud of owner and administrator have served at Windsor since led to the purchase of sev- Department and hous-
its staff, 35% of which have been with Windsor for ten its opening 18 years ago. eral homes in the area and ing, grant and accessibil-
or more years. Windsor Gardens would like to honor If you would like more information on the beautiful, created about $3 million in ity programs is available
these loyal members who have served the Knoxville home-like facility, please contact owner and adminis- private funds. at www.knoxvilletn.gov/
community so well. Three staff members and the trator Brian Bartley at 865-688-4840. ORNL Facilities and development.
April 9, 2018 www.knoxfocus.com PAGE C1
April 9, 2018
Powell looking for a head football coach again
By Steve Williams fall, including a 26-15 road “I want to thank every-
win over rival Halls in its one that supported our pro-
Hiring a head coach who season opener. gram the past three years
could give Powell High’s Ellison’s Panthers also and the administration at
football program stabil- blanked Clinton 17-0 Powell for granting me the
ity was a key objective in Week 5 for their first opportunity to lead these
when Rodney Ellison was shutout in four years and young men.
given the reins in 2015. He clawed Lenoir City 42-22 in “Most importantly I want
became the school’s fifth Week 6. to thank every young man
head coach in five years. But Powell finished with that played and worked
“We really do look for a four-game losing streak so hard for me. I will never
Coach Ellison to come and ended up in fifth place forget them and will always
in and establish a strong with a 2-4 record in Region cherish the memories.”
foundation for our program 3-5A, missing the playoffs. Ellison, 39, will remain
and build on that over the “After some thought and on the Powell faculty as a
course of time,” said Brad careful consideration, I teacher.
Carr, then Powell’s athletic have resigned my position Ellison began coaching
director. as head football coach at on the high school level
Ellison hoped to provide Powell High School,” said in 2006 as an assistant
that stability. Ellison in a statement last at Bearden and worked
But the PHS program Wednesday. “I have enjoyed his way up. He was head
began another coaching my time as the head foot- coach and offensive coor-
search last week when ball coach and feel that our dinator at Wartburg Cen-
principal Dr. Chad Smith staff along with the hard tral in 2011 and offensive
accepted Ellison’s resigna- work of each young man coordinator three seasons
tion April 2. that came through this at Clinton (2012-14).
“I want to personally say program in the past three
thank you to Coach Ellison years has brought Powell NEW AT GIBBS: Brad
for his time and effort in Panther football back into Turner was named the PHOTO BY STEVE WILLIAMS
what has been a difficult a respectable competitive Eagles’ new head football Rodney Ellison reacts to a play against Catholic in 7-on-7 action last July at Powell.
rebuilding of the Powell program. coach March 2. The former Ellison resigned as Powell’s head coach last week.
High School program,” said “With all the experience Gibbs player has coached
Dr. Smith in a statement. returning I feel that next at his alma mater since Conley, who stepped years and was an assistant and directed the Eagles to
After going 1-9 in 2015 year these kids will do 2004 and most recently down as head coach Jan. for nine years prior to that. the Region 2-5A champion-
and 2-9 in 2016, Powell some great things on the as defensive coordinator. 9. Conley had been the Conley guided Gibbs into ship in 2016.
got off to a 5-1 start last field. Turner replaces Brad Eagles’ head coach for 10 the Class 5A ranks in 2015
Top teams take to diamond Childress expects
schools to ‘turn a
in Scott Dean Tournament
negative into a positive’
(Part 2 of an inter- things to create a positive
By Ken Lay
the Warriors, the Rebels, At CAK, the Warriors will Heatherly Field will host view with TSSAA Exec- culture and come back and
Area high School base- Webb School of Knoxville, tangle with HVA at 6 p.m. four games. Farragut will utive Director Ber- show they had done those
ball teams will play in the Grace Christian Academy, Action continues Friday take on Cleveland at 10 nard Childress) things and see if the Board
Scott Dean Memorial Tour- Gibbs, Hardin Valley Acad- as the Admirals host Mt. a.m. Cleveland will play would reconsider.
By Steve Williams
nament this weekend. emy, the Irish and Loudon Juliet at 5 p.m. Mt. Juliet Loudon at 12:30. The “It’s the first time to my
The tournament is ded- will be joined by Cleve- will then face Grace Chris- Admirals will play Gibbs In what is believed to be knowledge that the Board
icated to the late Scott land, Mt. Juliet, Kingsport tian at 7:30. at 3. The Eagles will play an unprecedented move, has done that.”
Dean, who played and Dobyns-Bennett and Mor- At CAK: The Warriors Loudon at 5:30. the TSSAA Board of Con- Austin-East and Brain-
later served as an assis- ristown West. take on Cleveland at 5. At CAK: Hardin Valley will trol in February left the erd were banned from this
tant coach for the Admi- Action opens Thursday The Blue Raiders will then play Morristown West at door open for Austin-East year’s state tournament
rals. Games will be con- with games at Farragut, take on the Hawks at 7:30. 11:30 a.m. CAK will play and Chattanooga Brainerd after being involved in what
tested at Farragut, Maryville, Bearden and Games at Bearden the Trojans at 2 p.m. and boys’ basketball programs some called a “brawl” that
Bearden, Maryville, Cath- CAK. include: Dobyns-Bennett the Warriors will take on to take the steps to have broke out in their game in
olic and Christian Acad- At Farragut, the Admi- taking on the Bulldogs at Mt. Juliet at 4:30. their postseason bans Chattanooga on Jan. 27. At
emy of Knoxville. Dean, rals will host the Spartans 5 p.m. and The Indians will At Bearden: the Bulldogs reduced from two years to the time, A-E was ranked
who graduated in 2004, at 5 p.m. Farragut will play play Webb at 7:30. will take on the Rams at one year. No. 2 in the state in Class
played on four teams Kingsport Dobyns-Bennett The Rebels will host 10 a.m. Bearden will also “Our staff left the Board AA in the AP poll and Brain-
that reached the Class at 7:30. Morristown West at 5 p.m. play Mt. Juliet at 12:30 meeting that day feeling erd No. 5.
AAA State Championship At Maryville, the Rebels The Trojans and the Irish p.m. good about the decision After unsportsmanlike
Games, winning a pair of will host a pair of games will close the night’s action Maryville will host the Board made,” recalled conduct occurred on the
titles. Dean later coached as they entertain Loudon at Maryville at 7:30. Dobyns-Bennett at noon. TSSAA Executive Director floor, some spectators
on the State Champion- at 5 p.m. and take on the Webb will play Loudon The Irish will also host Bernard Childress at this came on the court and
ship Teams with the Admi- Rams at 7:30. at Catholic at 4:30 Friday. a pair of games at Gaylor year’s state tourney in Mur- reportedly made the inci-
rals. At Bearden, the host The tournament con- Field. The Irish will play the freesboro. dent worse. Game officials
Many of the area’s Bulldogs will play Gibbs at cludes with a full slate of Webb at noon before tan- “For the first time, the stopped play with 2:20 left
top teams including: the 5 p.m. Catholic will face games on Saturday. gling with Grace at 2:30 Board gave schools the in the first half and Brainerd
Admirals, the Bulldogs, the Eagles at 7:30. Farragut’s John p.m. opportunity to implement Continued on page 2
PAGE C2 The Knoxville Focus April 9, 2018
Bearden outlasts HVA Commandos withstand
and Gallatin after
early rush, down CAK 3-1
finding scoring touch
By Ken Lay “We came out early and
built on the momentum that By Ken Lay
It’s taken a little time but we had against Maryville job weathering and with-
it seems that the Bearden [on the road on March 29],” Christian Academy of standing that early storm
High School boys soccer Radcliffe said.” Knoxville’s boys soccer and they deserve all the
team has finally located its The game’s first marker team manufactured some credit for doing that.”
shooting touch. appeared to zap the Hawks. scoring chances early in its
CAK got on the board
The Bulldogs, who opened “I thought early that things match Thursday night.
when senior Baker Ben-
their 2018 campaign on were pretty even,” Hardin The Warriors, however,
field scored in the 65th
March 20, were shut out in Valley coach Nick Bradford couldn’t finish anything in
minute.
their first two matches as said. “After they got that first the first half and Hender-
Meanwhile, Warriors
they fell to Science Hill (1-0) goal, they got some energy. sonville was more than
goalkeeper Matt Mess-
and Greeneville (3-0). But We were shell-shocked by happy to make CAK pay as
Bearden picked up a 4-0 that goal.” the Commandos nabbed chendorf made some big
win over Maryville to close Bearden expanded its a 3-1 victory in the open- saves after halftime and
out the month of March. advantage to 2-0 approxi- ing round of the 2018 gave CAK a chance to fight
April has been a bit more mately a minute later when Bearden Invitational at PHOTO BY KEN LAY. their way back into the
productive for the Bulldogs Tanner Whited, another Turner-Allender Field. CAK senior Davis Clothier is caught between two Hen- match.
--- at least early. Bearden junior, tallied an unassisted The Warriors (2-3-1) dersonville players, including Max Cooper (4) in a match Ireton, who tallied the
opened the month with marker. had some early chances at the Bearden Invitational Thursday night. The Com- first marker of the match,
a 3-1 victory over Hardin The Hawks missed a but Hendersonville sopho- mandos defeated the Warriors 3-1.
closed out the scoring
Valley Academy Tuesday golden scoring chance late more goalkeeper Andrew
with a goal inside the final
night at Turner-Allender in the opening half when Briley made some key for a foul inside the box boast a talented but young
moment of the game.
Field. Bearden senior netminder early stops to keep CAK approximately midway roster. Its key players on
Tournament play contin-
“This is a young team,” Andrew Wilkins slammed off the scoreboard. through the opening half. this night (Ireton, Good and
ued through Sunday but
Bulldogs coach Ryan Rad- the door on Hardin Valley’s “We had some chanc- Hendersonville, which Briley are all sophomores)
results were unavailable
cliffe said after his squad Angel Garcia Perez when he es during the first 20 min- made the long trip to but the team held its com-
defeated the Hawks, their stopped a point-blank shot utes. We couldn’t finish Knoxville Thursday morn- posure during CAK’s initial at press time.
one-time District 4-AAA in the 32nd minute. and they really flipped ing, seized control of the attacking run. There were three tour-
rivals. “We did a little better Garcia Perez would even- things on us,” Warriors match when CAK scored “We traveled over here nament games Thurs-
finishing tonight, but we tually score in the match. He coach Jon Day said. “They an own goal in the 29th [from Middle Tennessee] day night with the Com-
didn’t finish some chances scored on a direct free kick got us in some compromis- minute. The marker was today, and when you do mandos, the host Bull-
and we left a lot of opportu- in the 47th minute to pull the ing positions and we made officially credited to Cade that, it takes awhile for dogs and Greeneville, the
nities on the board. Hawks to within 2-1. some silly mistakes. Good, of the Commandos, you do get your legs,” Com-
defending Class AA State
“Hardin Valley is a good Lewis closed out the scor- “The biggest difference and made the score 2-0. mandos coach Russ Plum-
Champion, all notched 3-1
team and this is [still] a rival- ing with a marker in the 75th between the first half and And Hendersonville mer said. “This is a great
wins. Bearden knocked of
ry game and this was a good minute. Everett Houser was the second half was our wasn’t finished. tournament and we come
Gallatin and the Greene
test for us. We played really credited with an assist on adjustments to their pres- The Commandos here to for the great com-
Devils toppled German-
well and we did a better job the final goal of the match. sure.” expanded their advantage petition.
town Houston in a battle of
finishing, but we did leave a Bearden continued to The Commandos (6-1-1) to 3-0 when Kyle Peterson “Coach Day does a
lot of stuff out there.” manufacture offense Thurs- scored first in the match tallied in the 36th minute great job with his team defending state champs.
The Bulldogs and Hawks day night. The Bulldogs when Isaiah Ireton con- to give Hendersonville the and Bearden does a great The Mustangs claimed the
(3-2-3) were embroiled in a knocked off the Gallatin verted a penalty kick after 3-0 lead that it enjoyed at job running this tourna- Class AAA State Title last
fairly even battle out of the Greenwave 3-1 in the open- the Warriors were whistled halftime. The Commandos ment. Our kids did a great year in Murfreesboro.
gate but Bearden seized ing game of the Bearden
the momentum when junior Invitational.
Collin Lewis buried a direct Bearden (3-2) headed
free kick past HVA goal- into the weekend on a Rebels withstand delay to
keeper Ryan Hart in the 23rd three-game winning streak.
minute.
Childress expects
down Lenoir City 4-1
schools to ‘turn a
By Ken Lay
get all geared up to play by the Rebels, who were an inning-ending fielder’s
negative into a positive’ A District 4-AAA base- and then you have to wait coming into the game on choice.
ball game is a difficult over 40 minutes and it’s the heels of a 14-1 district The Rebels mounted
Cont. from page 1 scheduled to meet with challenge to face. West hard to get refocused and win over Catholic Tuesday. another one-out threat in
ahead 36-32. The TSSAA the Board of Control again High School had a league ready to play.” West would knot the their half of the second as
ruled the game a no-con- in June. If the Board rules Wednesday night and that The Rebels (15-2 over- game 1-1 in the bottom Continue on page 4
test. favorably, the Roadrunners was going to be tough all, 3-2 in District 4-AAA) of the first and the Rebels
“It looks like we’re going and Panthers will return to enough. weren’t particularly sharp started a rally after their
RONNIE ELECT
to take what was a very postseason tournament But the Rebels had to out of the gate as the Pan- leadoff hitter was retired R
OCHELLE
unfortunate incident, and play in 2019. face a little unforeseen thers (2-8, 0-6) took a 1-0 by Panthers freshman
in the long run, it’s going Childress said Board adversity before the first lead in the top of the first right-hander Gabe Wil-
KKNNOOXX CCOOUUNNTTYY
to be a positive,” said Chil- members were impressed pitch was even thrown. The inning. liams, who was making the
CCOOMMMMIISSSSIIOONNEERR
dress. “I have all the faith by the A-E administrators’ game was delayed 48 min- Lenoir City scored its first start of his high school
that those administrators at presentation Feb. 8, the utes because an umpiring lone run of the contest with career.
AT LARGE SEAT 10
Austin-East as well as Brain- way they took responsibility supervisor failed to sched- two outs in the opening Matt Holocek and Cal ronnierochelle.com
erd are going to do exactly for everything that had hap- ule officials for West High’s frame. Freshman second Cook strung together
what they outlined for the pened and their outline of game against Lenoir City. baseman Garrett Tollett back-to-back singles. An
Board that said what they things they wanted to do to But the Rebels overcame started things with a one- RBI single by first base-
were going to do. And that change the culture not just the late start and held off out single. He advanced to man Roland Ryan plated
would be a positive.” in their athletic program but the pesky Panthers 4-1 at third one out later when Holocek with the tying run.
Principal Nathan Langlois in their community. Lindsay-Hawkins Park in Zach Spears reached on Williams was able to
and athletic director Alvin “There were even some Marble City. an error. Tollett would avert further damage as
voteronnierochelle
Armstead presented A-E’s comments from Board “They always play us come home when Cory he struck out West pitch-
@ronrochelle
plan to the Board of Control. members after they pre- tough,” said Rebels coach Lankford got aboard on er Ian McGilvray and got
voteronnierochelle
“It’s about teaching young sented their appeal,” said Buzz McNish, who former- another defensive miscue Jake Wilhoit to rap into
*Paid for by the Rochelle Campaign
people that they’re going Childress. ly coached at Lenoir Ronnie Rochelle, Treasurer
to experience struggles in “Some of the Board City. “District wins are
their life, but you can always members commented that hard to come by around
turn a negative into a posi- it was one of the better here and then you have
tive if you work at it,” contin- appeals that we’ve heard. a delay.
ued Childress. That says a lot.” “We come in and you
“Not only will it be some-
thing that they can be proud
of in their own communities
and their own athletic pro-
grams, but it will be a foot-
print as we go forward in the
(TSSAA) organization. TN CHARTER #4410
“We could say, ‘Look, this
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