Smoky Mountain News Network #SMNN

09/05/2024

MISSING CHILDREN ALERT: The Sevier County Sheriff is seeking your help. Share this to spread the information.

09/05/2024

Cocke County Emergency Management Agency
5-9-2024 @ 3:15 pm
****ATTENTION NEWPORT RESIDENTS AND THOSE WHO LIVE OR WORK ON THE PIGEON RIVER****
Duke Energy has just opened floodgates to release water, taking pressure off the Damn. This rush of water will take approximately 90 minutes to reach the downtown area. It is possible thus may take portions of the county up to or past flood stage.

09/05/2024

Update: Cherokee Orchard Road is temporarily closed at the park boundary due to a rockslide.
Temporary closures as of 12:30 p.m. Thursday, May 9:
- Cherokee Orchard Road
- Cades Cove Loop Road
- Greenbrier Road
Some park roads are closed due to high water and downed trees from a recent storm event. National Park Service crews are working to clear trees and assess conditions.
Updates will also be posted on the park’s website:
https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/conditions.htm

09/05/2024

UPDATE 5/9/24 [9:30 AM]
Here is a look at the current roads that have been impacted.
A Flood Advisory is in effect for Sevier County until 10:15 AM.
Turn around, don’t drown.

UPDATE 5/9/24 [9:30 AM]

Here is a look at the current roads that have been impacted.

A Flood Advisory is in effect for Sevier County until 10:15 AM.

Turn around, don’t drown.

09/05/2024

TRAFFIC ALERT
One lane on Burden Hill Road near Eastgate Road is closed due to flooding.

TRAFFIC ALERT

One lane on Burden Hill Road near Eastgate Road is closed due to flooding.

09/05/2024

Local heroes brave raging waters to save lives! Cocke County’s Swift Water Rescue Team successfully pulled a man and his dog from the treacherous Pigeon River. Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/2zp8pk4n

09/05/2024

⚠ Closure Alert ⚠
Portions of the Pigeon Forge Greenway are currently closed due to flooding. Below, you can see a part of the Riverwalk trail behind The Track flooded over. 📸: courtesy of Kyle Grainger WVLT and the Mountain Monster camera in Pigeon Forge.
Stay tuned for updates on closures, openings, and alerts due to the weather & flooding.

⚠ Closure Alert ⚠

Portions of the Pigeon Forge Greenway are currently closed due to flooding. Below, you can see a part of the Riverwalk trail behind The Track flooded over. 📸: courtesy of Kyle Grainger WVLT and the Mountain Monster camera in Pigeon Forge.

Stay tuned for updates on closures, openings, and alerts due to the weather & flooding.

09/05/2024

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Temporary Street Closures for Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival May 16-19
The annual City of Sevierville Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival will take place in the downtown area on May 17 and 18. To facilitate the event, several streets must be temporarily closed, and the Sevier County Courthouse will be closed on Friday, May 17.
The following streets and parking areas will close at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 16 (ALL non-event vehicles must be removed from these areas by 6:00 p.m.):
• Municipal Parking Lot on Bruce Street.
• Bruce Street: from the Parkway to Citizens National Bank.
• Court Avenue: from Commerce Street to Joy Street.
The following roads will be closed as noted on Friday, May 17 (ALL non-event vehicles must be removed from these areas by the time noted):
• Bruce Street: from Forks of the River Parkway to Citizens National Bank-6:00 p.m.
• Court Avenue: from Commerce Street to the Central Hotel-1:00 p.m.
• Commerce Street-1:00 p.m.
The Sevier County Courthouse will be closed Friday, May 17.
All streets and parking areas will reopen on Sunday, May 19, at approximately 11:00 a.m.
Please remember that although the streets are closing, downtown businesses may remain open. Park in a nearby event parking lot and enjoy a spring stroll to downtown businesses, restaurants and shops.
For more information on the Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival, call (865) 453-6411 or visit online at www.bloominbbq.com.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Temporary Street Closures for Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival May 16-19

The annual City of Sevierville Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival will take place in the downtown area on May 17 and 18. To facilitate the event, several streets must be temporarily closed, and the Sevier County Courthouse will be closed on Friday, May 17.

The following streets and parking areas will close at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 16 (ALL non-event vehicles must be removed from these areas by 6:00 p.m.):
• Municipal Parking Lot on Bruce Street.
• Bruce Street: from the Parkway to Citizens National Bank.
• Court Avenue: from Commerce Street to Joy Street.

The following roads will be closed as noted on Friday, May 17 (ALL non-event vehicles must be removed from these areas by the time noted):
• Bruce Street: from Forks of the River Parkway to Citizens National Bank-6:00 p.m.
• Court Avenue: from Commerce Street to the Central Hotel-1:00 p.m.
• Commerce Street-1:00 p.m.

The Sevier County Courthouse will be closed Friday, May 17.

All streets and parking areas will reopen on Sunday, May 19, at approximately 11:00 a.m.

Please remember that although the streets are closing, downtown businesses may remain open. Park in a nearby event parking lot and enjoy a spring stroll to downtown businesses, restaurants and shops.

For more information on the Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival, call (865) 453-6411 or visit online at www.bloominbbq.com.

09/05/2024

Russellville Elementary School was damaged during the severe storm! Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/4tjcvzt4

09/05/2024

TRAFFIC ALERT
Snapp Road is closed at Ernest McMahan Road and Rivergate Drive due to flooding.

TRAFFIC ALERT

Snapp Road is closed at Ernest McMahan Road and Rivergate Drive due to flooding.

07/05/2024

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Road maintenance planned in Hollywood Hills and Little Pigeon
River Estates includes street closures
A traffic advisory that includes street closures is being issued for the following streets in the Hollywood Hills and Little Pigeon River Estates subdivisions between May 13-18, 2024. Please see attached maps of each subdivision for specific street closure schedules.
Hollywood Hills:
• Hollywood Circle
• Evergreen Drive
• Hickory Street
Little Pigeon River Estates:
• Carl Street
• Cedar Drive
• Little Pigeon Drive
• Estate Drive
• Bertie Street
• Riverview Circle
A contractor will be performing pavement preservation work that will necessitate complete closure of each affected street for a 12-hour period. The contractor, Holbrook Asphalt, will be distributing flyers to affected residents and businesses prior to the start of work, explaining the preservation process and noting specific street closure schedules.
The pavement preservation treatment will significantly extend the life of asphalt streets. The benefits of using this process include reduced long-term maintenance costs, less surface damage, higher property values and a smoother and safer ride for motorists.
For additional information, please contact the Public Works Department at 865-429-4567.

06/05/2024

Is the "Carolina Squat" trend coming to an end in Tennessee? A new law bans these modified vehicles from the roads! Find out why and what it means for drivers. READ MORE -> https://tinyurl.com/mv8ecumm

06/05/2024

Scattered showers and storms will increase in coverage across the area, now through this evening. A few isolated strong to severe storms are possible, mainly along and south of I-40. The main threat with any stronger storms will be damaging winds and hail up to 1". There is a very *low* risk of an isolated tornado and confidence is very low, along and south of I-40.

06/05/2024

**B O L O**
Stolen Equipment
5-6-24 @ 1:05 p.m.
On the approximate date of 4/4/24, the pictured 2021 Wacker Neuson ST 50 LF CTL Vert skid steer was stolen from a residence located at 2746 Tanasi Trail. (The man shown in the photo is the owner of the equipment.)
If you have any information regarding this felony theft, please contact Det. Sgt. Trevor Snowden at 423-585-2789 or the HCSO's main number at 423-586-3781.
Please DO NOT respond via FB messenger. Thank you.

**B O L O**
Stolen Equipment
5-6-24 @ 1:05 p.m.

On the approximate date of 4/4/24, the pictured 2021 Wacker Neuson ST 50 LF CTL Vert skid steer was stolen from a residence located at 2746 Tanasi Trail. (The man shown in the photo is the owner of the equipment.)

If you have any information regarding this felony theft, please contact Det. Sgt. Trevor Snowden at 423-585-2789 or the HCSO's main number at 423-586-3781.

Please DO NOT respond via FB messenger. Thank you.

06/05/2024

We've received several calls today from citizens reporting scams. The citizens received calls from various numbers from a person calling themselves "Lt. Mike Fincher" from the GCSD. This person is then demanding money for missed jury duty or civil process. Please remember: NO ONE FROM THE GCSD WILL CALL YOU ASKING FOR MONEY. Please hang up and do not give out any personal information or send any money.

06/05/2024

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: truck show and concert at Smokies Stadium
The Sevierville Police Department is issuing a traffic advisory for the area near Smokies Stadium, including Highway 66 (Winfield Dunn Parkway) in north Sevierville/Kodak, Interstate 40 at and near exit 407, and Snyder Road. The advisory will be in effect Friday, May 10-Saturday, May 11, 2024.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: truck show and concert at Smokies Stadium

The Sevierville Police Department is issuing a traffic advisory for the area near Smokies Stadium, including Highway 66 (Winfield Dunn Parkway) in north Sevierville/Kodak, Interstate 40 at and near exit 407, and Snyder Road. The advisory will be in effect Friday, May 10-Saturday, May 11, 2024.

A truck show and concert are scheduled at the stadium May 10 and 11. Motorists should expect heavy traffic and delays, an

03/05/2024

🚨 MISSING PERSON ALERT: Greene County woman Jennifer Elliott hasn't been seen since March 22nd. Last spotted near Viking Mountain. A suspicious vehicle was found. READ MORE ➡️ https://tinyurl.com/4j2uukev

03/05/2024

ALERT -> A Sevier County teacher was arrested and charged for committing multiple child s*x crimes with a student, according to an indictment. READ MORE -> https://tinyurl.com/m9cpbc5z

03/05/2024

🚨 Breaking: Tragic pedestrian accident in Greene County claims a life 💔 THP is investigating. For details on the victim, driver, and location 👉 https://tinyurl.com/4rkre9x8

30/04/2024

Newport Utilities ends wireless internet service, leaving some rural residents without options. What does this mean for customers? Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/2cbze9zp

30/04/2024

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Temporary closure of section of Bruce Street and City parking lot/gazebo
A traffic advisory is being issued for the temporary closure of a section of Bruce Street on Saturday, May 4. Bruce Street, between Court Avenue and the Parkway, will be closed to all traffic from 12:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The City parking lot and gazebo on Bruce Street will also be closed during this period.
The closures are necessary to facilitate the Bruce Street Brewfest special event.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Temporary closure of section of Bruce Street and City parking lot/gazebo

A traffic advisory is being issued for the temporary closure of a section of Bruce Street on Saturday, May 4. Bruce Street, between Court Avenue and the Parkway, will be closed to all traffic from 12:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. The City parking lot and gazebo on Bruce Street will also be closed during this period.

The closures are necessary to facilitate the Bruce Street Brewfest special event.

28/04/2024

HAMBLEN CO. RESIDENTS -> Breaking: Cell phones causing problems in Hamblen County schools? District implements new restrictions to improve safety. Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/4ydkv8vr

28/04/2024

BREAKING NEWS: Apartment fire on April 26th in Morristown leaves 15 people without homes. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours. The Red Cross is offering assistance. Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/5b5vmhtk

28/04/2024

Parrottsville Community Outreach meeting will be held at the Parrottsville City Park, Tuesday, April 30, 2024 beginning at 6:00 pm. This will give you an opportunity to meet and greet with each other and learn the importance of how the Sheriffs Office is working for you. We invite you to attend. Cocke County Sheriff Office

28/04/2024

ATTENTION GREENE CO. - Protect your furry friends! 🐾 Greene County is hosting rabies vaccination clinics May 6-11. Affordable prices, convenient locations. Keep your pets safe! Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/yf5sdn4v

28/04/2024

🚨 Attention, Cocke County! Our Swift Water Rescue Team is training hard on the Pigeon River's rapids! Want to see them in action and learn about their work? Read more -> https://tinyurl.com/j8pnwmun

26/04/2024

Great Volunteer Opportunity! Please come help us plant flowers downtown. Saturday, May 11th at 10:00am. See you there!

26/04/2024

Take a look at the person pictured here. Do you recognize him? If so, contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers. If the information you provide leads to an arrest or the recovery of the stolen mini bikes you may receive a CASH reward.
Sevierville Police Department

UPDATE: Thank you to everyone who shared our post and submitted tips. Thanks to you this individual was positively identified and has been arrested by the Sevierville Police Department.
-----------------------
Take a look at the person pictured here. Do you recognize him? If so, contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers. If the information you provide leads to an arrest or the recovery of the stolen mini bikes you may receive a CASH reward.

Sevierville Police Department

26/04/2024

Civil Service Examination
The Greene County Civil Service Board and the Greene County Sheriff's Department will be conducting a civil service examination on May 23, 2024 at the Greene County Courthouse. The test, for the position of deputy sheriff-corrections officer, will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. Please be present no later than 5:45 p.m. and bring a photo identification. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. Citizen, a high school graduate or possess a GED, and have no criminal record. Candidates must also possess a valid Tennessee driver's license, be able to pass a physical and psychological examination and be of good moral character. Additional requirements may apply. Starting compensation for the position of deputy sheriff-corrections officer is $18.39 per hour. Applications may be obtained at the Greene County Sheriff's Department, 116 East Depot Street Greeneville, TN. 37743, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday or can be filled out online through Indeed. Completed applications must be turned in at the Greene County Sheriff's Department no later than 12:00 p.m. Wednesday May 22, 2024. Please contact Detective Toby Price at 423-798-1800 with any questions you may have pertaining to these examinations.

Civil Service Examination

The Greene County Civil Service Board and the Greene County Sheriff's Department will be conducting a civil service examination on May 23, 2024 at the Greene County Courthouse. The test, for the position of deputy sheriff-corrections officer, will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. Please be present no later than 5:45 p.m. and bring a photo identification. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. Citizen, a high school graduate or possess a GED, and have no criminal record. Candidates must also possess a valid Tennessee driver's license, be able to pass a physical and psychological examination and be of good moral character. Additional requirements may apply. Starting compensation for the position of deputy sheriff-corrections officer is $18.39 per hour. Applications may be obtained at the Greene County Sheriff's Department, 116 East Depot Street Greeneville, TN. 37743, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday or can be filled out online through Indeed. Completed applications must be turned in at the Greene County Sheriff's Department no later than 12:00 p.m. Wednesday May 22, 2024. Please contact Detective Toby Price at 423-798-1800 with any questions you may have pertaining to these examinations.

26/04/2024

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Temporary closure of East Ridge Road
A traffic advisory is being issued for the temporary closure of East Ridge Road. Beginning at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 1, East Ridge Road will be closed to thru traffic (access to homes will be permitted) between Veterans Boulevard and Ridge Road. Weather and other conditions permitting, the road will be reopened to traffic by Friday evening, May 3.
The road will be reopened each evening to all traffic. Detour signage will be in place directing motorists to use Ridge Road, Collier Drive and Veterans Boulevard as alternate routes.
The closure is necessary for installation of a sewer line and manholes.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Temporary closure of East Ridge Road

A traffic advisory is being issued for the temporary closure of East Ridge Road. Beginning at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 1, East Ridge Road will be closed to thru traffic (access to homes will be permitted) between Veterans Boulevard and Ridge Road. Weather and other conditions permitting, the road will be reopened to traffic by Friday evening, May 3.

The road will be reopened each evening to all traffic. Detour signage will be in place directing motorists to use Ridge Road, Collier Drive and Veterans Boulevard as alternate routes.

The closure is necessary for installation of a sewer line and manholes.