Greetings to all who come to the Slow Dog's Place. A great debt of gratitude is extended to each and every one of you. It is a great honor and priviledge to serve here. Over 1500 people from all over the world have explored the galleries and favorites, now totalling over 43,000 images collected over the past fifteen years on dA.

We have decided to renew our core membership for many reasons, the least of which being a half price sale. A mistake during purchase led to a three month rebilling membership, which was added on to with 2000 points being tendered during a second purchase. This got us a 15 month run, which will help support the site while removing unwanted ads from our pages.

This decision was arrived at after much consideration surrounding the reasons why the Slow Dog's Place exists. It meant that the donation widget had to be taken down since the points were originally being saved for other purposes. The 1,000,000 point goal was rather lofty, and donations had ground to a hault. The reasons for the drive have also been scrapped, so we decided to use the points as a means of renewing the core. We thank all who gave those points and we hope all agree to the wisdom of our choice in the matter.

When this account was opened fifteen years ago as of this posting, we wanted to share the glory of the Mighty Theatre Pipe Organ with those who were curious and all the others who have never seen the King of Musical Instruments up close and personal. We also wanted to showcase the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains of east Tennessee. To that end, thousands of high resolution images have been submitted, all free to use without restrictions other than crediting the author, with no claim of ownership by those who use these pictures. We have never watermarked our work, but it is signed and dated, with the original unedited files being stored locally at our technical provider, CoyoteNET Digital System Solutions, without whom we would not be here.

Along the way, we have favorited many different kinds of art covering a wide scope of interest, with the only criteria being excellence of creation. To that end we have collected tens of thousands of works from across the globe. These images have been sorted into subfolders within the galleries so that they are easy to find and explore. With each one, llamas have been exchanged along with comments and kind regards to and from the folks we have interacted with. It is for these reasons that we reconsidered whether to continue on as a core account.

A stumbling block along the way was the rollout of the new dA interface known as Eclipse, which brings with it many changes to the site, most of which we do not like for several reasons, some of which almost made us abandon core membership and even consider pulling out of dA altogether. Eclipse appears to be two things. The first is a clone of another art site known as Art Station. This has broaght a rather "facebook" style to the site. The second is that the style seems to favor mobile phones over desktop computers. With these charactoristics also comes much social welding and lots of tracking code which we must filter out in order to enjoy our time here.

Our mission still holds true, that being stated above. And this mission has determined the need for us to stay, so that history shall not be forgotten and reminders of a much simpler time can be seen by everyone who is interested enough to venture off the main steam and hunt for something completely different. Were we to let a site style change cause us to pull out, we would be doing a terrible injustice to all who have come to call the Slow Dog's Place a favorite destination. Thus, it is you, our loyal followers, who have given us the impetus to continue doing what we do here on dA.

In closing, let us remind eachother why we are here. Although dA has social media charactoristics as evidenced by the way people relate and communicate here, it is first and formost an art site dedicated to the creation of art. Those who come here to argue about things not related to art are wasting the precious time of those who would rather be drawing, painting and shooting pictures. To that end, we have decided to stay on, once again giving thanks and kind regards to all who make this possible, for without you, our presence here would be moot.

News Source: www.local8now.com/content/news…
Posted: Fri 6:30 PM, Dec 09, 2016
Updated: Thu 3:59 PM, Dec 15, 2016

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Dollywood Foundation My People Fund announced the dates and locations of the first distribution of checks for those who lost their primary residences in the Sevier County wildfires.

DATES/LOCATION:
Thursday, Dec. 15 Last name A – F
Friday, Dec. 16 Last name G – L
Monday, Dec. 19 Last name M – R
Tuesday, Dec. 20 Last name S – Z

10 a.m. – 7 p.m. each day at the CARE MORE Assistance Center inside the LeConte Event Center
2986 Teaster Ln., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Applicants were asked to park and check-in adjacent to the LeConte Center in a municipal parking lot.

Eligible families registered to receive $1,000 a month for six months by visiting dollywoodfoundation.org. A release by the Dollywood Foundation said county officials are using the U.S. Geological Survey of damage in the area and cross-referencing with official documents to ensure that families who lost their primary residences receive funds.

As of Friday, more than 900 people had applied for funds, with more expected to apply on line. A release from the Dollywood Foundation urged only heads of households to report on the day that correlates with their last name. Those reporting should be prepared to present photo identification.

The first distribution was scheduled to precede six other distributions.



News Source: www.local8now.com/content/news…
Posted: Fri 8:52 AM, Dec 09, 2016
Updated: Wed 9:45 PM, Dec 14, 2016

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Smoky Mountains Rise: A Benefit for the My People Fund aired on MyVLT on December 13 and raised $9 million. A statement released by the Dollywood Foundation said the total amount raised is expected to rise as mail donations are counted and the telethon is rebroadcast to new audiences over the next five days.

The three hour long benefit concert featured countless celebrity appearances and check presentations. Generous contributions were made by Kenny Chesney, Chris Young, Paul Simon, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley, Kid Rock, Dollar General, CMT, Blalock Construction, Belmont University, Tennessee Titans, WIVK, Local 8 News and many more.

Alison Krauss, Reba McEntire, Cyndi Lauper, Lauren Alaina, Alabama, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Amy Grant, LOCASH, Big & Rich, Chris Stapleton, Hank Williams Junior, Aaron Lewis, Rhonda Vincent and so many others performed during the three hour long telethon organized by Dolly Parton to support those affected by the recent wildfires in and around Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Parton announced the My People Fund on Nov. 30, after the airing of Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love, and has already pledged to provide $1000 each month to Sevier County families whose homes are uninhabitable or were completely destroyed in the recent Smoky Mountain wildfires.

Viewers were asked to call 1-866-CARE MORE to donate to the My People Fund. The lines were so busy that another phone line was added. When the telethon ended at 11 p.m. Dolly Parton tweeted that the concert would air again on West Coast time to allow for more donations. She also stated that donations to #MyPeopleFund will make a world of difference for so many who have lost everything in the TN wildfires.

Anyone who would like to make a tax-deductible contribution to the My People Fund may visit dollywoodfoundation.org. For those wishing to send donations via mail, those contributions should be sent to: My People Fund, c/o Dollywood Foundation, 111 Dollywood Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.



Posted: Mon 5:03 PM, Nov 28, 2016
Updated: Tue 12:32 PM, Dec 13, 2016
News Source: www.local8now.com/content/news…

SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Officials confirmed that 14 people are dead and 191 people were injured in the heartbreaking Sevier County wildfires.

In all, 2,460 structures have been damaged or destroyed. 1,123 residential structures were destroyed in the county, 981 in Gatlinburg, and 17 in Pigeon Forge. 53 commercial structures were destroyed in Gatlinburg, 5 in the county, and zero in Pigeon Forge. 7 residential structures in the county have major damage, 7 in Gatlinburg, and none in Pigeon Forge. 3 commercial structures in Gatlinburg have major damage. 42 residential structures in the county have minor damage and 29 in Gatlinburg. 1 commercial structure in the county and 1 in Gatlinburg have minor damage. 126 residential structures in the county were affected by the fires, 54 in Gatlinburg, and 1 in Pigeon Forge. 9 commercial structures in Gatlinburg and 1 in the county were affected. At a press conference on Tuesday, Mayor Waters told media outlets that the fires caused more than an estimated $500 million in damages.

As of Tuesday, 6 hand crews, 15 engines, 1 helicopter, 209 total personnel were fighting the Chimney Top 2 Fire as a part of the Type 1 Federal Incident Management Team. The Chimney Top 2 Fire was estimated to be 94% contained with 17,140 acres, and the Cobbly Nob Fire was estimated to be 96% contained with 764 acres. Mayor Waters said all fires have been extinguished.

Authorities told media outlets Wednesday that two juveniles have been charged with aggravated arson for allegedly starting the Sevier Co. wildfires. The juveniles are not from Sevier County, but are from Tennessee. The investigation is ongoing.

The Water Boil Advisory is still in effect for the following areas in Gatlinburg: Greystone Heights, Smoky View Road and Campbell Lead, Cliff Branch Road (inside the city) and the portion of Wiley Oakley Drive between Ski View Drive and Compbell Lead Road. The Water Boil Advisory was lifted for the downtown area.

As of Friday, water had been re-established and the following areas were added to the boil water advisory: Kings Way, Colt Lane, Loop Road, Topside Road and Drive, Little Fox Road, Forest Springs Drive, Foothills Drive, Stone Fence Lane, Spring Drive, Silverbell Heights, the 300 block of Silverbell Lane, Chimney Tops Way, Abrams Falls Way and Parsons Branch Way.

City leaders identified some of the people who died as a result of the wildfires.

Elaine Brown, 81, died after she sustained a medical event that caused a multi-vehicle accidents on Wears Valley Road while fleeing the fire.

Edward Taylor, 85, unknown address; Bradley Phillips, age 59, discovered at 412 Long Hollow Road; and Constance Reed, age 34, Chloe Reed, age 12, and Lily Reed, age 9, discovered at 347 Wiley Oakley Drive.

John Tegler, 71, and Marilyn Tegler, 70, were dual citizens from Woodstock, Ontario, but owned a vacation home on North Skyline Drive in Chalet Village. Their son, Scott, was notified at 6 p.m. on December 1. Their son-in-law, Dave Lapointe told CBC News that the couple had been living in the U.S. for about 20 years.

Jon Summers, 61, and Janet Summers, 61, were from Memphis, Tennessee. They were staying in Chalet Village on Crooked Ridge Road. Their three sons Paul, Shawn, and Phillip were sent to the burn unit at Vanderbilt Medical Center. One of the brothers was released from the hospital while the other two are still being treated for burns. Jon's brother, Jim, was notified at 5:40 p.m. on December 1.

Officials said May Vance died of a heart attack in the wildfires and did not release further information. Vance is from Gatlinburg.

Officials identified Robert A. Hejny, 63, who was found at Traveler's Motel in Gatlinburg.

The family of Alice Hagler confirmed to Local 8 News Thursday morning that she passed away. Officials confirmed her death on Friday afternoon. Hagler was reported missing Tuesday; she was last seen at her home on Piney Butt Loop in Gatlinburg.

Officials said three people were found dead from fires in the Chalet Village area, and one person was discovered dead near a motel on Highway 321. Three more people were found dead on Campbell Lead Road. Authorities did not release details about the other fatalities.

Two others were rescued safely at Westgate Resorts and one person was rescued on Ski Mountain.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said it received over 100 phone calls, since it established a hotline, 1-800-TBI-FIND, for people to call with reports of missing loved ones. Agents closed more than 150 leads on missing persons.

On Wednesday, December 7, property owners, business owners, renters, and lease holders were allowed to return to full-time occupancy beginning at 7:00 a.m. through the East Parkway (Hwy. 321) entry point. 13 people are staying at the Red Cross shelter.

Officials said there is a temporary landfill site for damaged property next to the current landfill on Ridge Road.

The City of Gatlinburg reopened for business and to the general public on Friday, December 9 at 7 a.m. Major roadways were opened, but some city roadways remained closed for utility work.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officially reopened to the public on Friday, December 9 in conjunction with the reopening of the city of Gatlinburg. Newfound Gap Road, Little River Road, and several visitor areas have opened which were closed since the evening of Monday, November 28 due to the Chimney Tops 2 wildfire. The Spur between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is open from Pigeon Forge to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. Wiley Oakley and Cliff Branch Roads are now open.

The following trails are closed due to wind or fire damage: Chimney Tops Trail, Road Prong Trail, Sugarland Mountain Trail from Mt Collins Shelter to Little River Road, Huskey Gap Trail, Rough Creek Trail, Old Sugarlands Trail, Twin Creeks Trail, Baskins Creek Trail, Bull Head Trail, Rainbow Falls Trail, Trillium Gap Trail, Grapeyard Ridge Trail from Campsite 32 to Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg Trail, Cove Mountain Trail, Sugarland Valley Nature Trail, Noah Bud Ogle Nature Trail, Cove Hardwood Nature Trail, the Sugarlands Horse Concession trails, and the quiet walkways along Newfound Gap Road.

All park campsites that are normally open this time of year are open, with the exception of Campsite 21 on Huskey Gap Trail.

Cherokee Orchard Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains closed.

Several upcoming park events were postponed or cancelled. The Festival of Christmas Past, scheduled for December 10, was cancelled. The Hike 100 Centennial Challenge celebration, scheduled for December 9 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, was postponed. The Holiday Homecoming at the Oconaluftee Mountain Farm will take place as planned on December 17.

A mandatory evacuation order was issued on November 28 for downtown Gatlinburg residents and guests after TEMA issued a Level 3 State of Emergency with 70 homes in Wears Valley, 70 homes in Cobbly Nob, and 150 structures damaged or destroyed by fire in Sevier County, including a 16-story hotel on Regan Drive, and the Driftwood Apartments near the Park Vista Hotel. The mandatory emergency evacuation for Pigeon Forge was lifted Tuesday. The National Guard was mobilized to Sevier County.

TEMA reports that 14,000 people evacuated Sevier County on November 28. Officials say mass evacuation notifications went out on cell phones at 9:04 p.m. on November 28.

All Sevier County Schools have reopened with the exception of Pi Beta Phi Elementary School. Officials announced that Pi Beta Phi Elementary had minor damage and smoke damage.

Officials with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park issued an air quality advisory and closed the park on November 28. According to an update from GSMNP on November 29, park officials reported "widespread fire damage" and continued fire activity throughout the Gatlinburg area and much of Sevier County including Wears Valley, Pigeon Forge and Jones Cove.

Investigators say the Chimney 2 fire started on November 23 on the north spire of the Chimney Tops. The incident commander returned the next morning and determined that a fire line was not needed. Investigators saw small growth Saturday. Winds picked up and additional firefighters and helicopters were ordered Sunday. The GSMNP Deputy Superintendent said the fire did not pose a threat to the public before the wind picked up. Spot fires spread outside the containment area on November 27. At 11:35 a.m. Monday, officials noticed a spot fire near Twin Creek that crossed drainages. The fire spread to the North as the Gatlinburg Fire Department prepared to battle the South end of the city. The Gatlinburg fire chief told media outlets the fire projections showed there would be no spread to Gatlinburg until midday Tuesday.

Officials say door to door evacuations started in Mynatt Park on Monday afternoon. At 6:27 p.m. other mandatory evacuations were made in the area. Ski Mountain was added to the mandatory evacuations list at 8 p.m. Monday. The Gatlinburg Fire Chief said TEMA did not send out a mass evacuation alert because the verbiage was not correct and cell phone towers crashed, making it difficult to communicate. A siren alarm system was used to evacuate the Gatlinburg area.

Mayor Waters said the state law needs to be changed to allow county mayors to order mandatory evacuations.



National Park Service explains how Chimney Tops 2 fire spread to Gatlinburg

News Source: wate.com/2016/12/13/timeline-g…

WATE 6 staff
Published: December 13, 2016, 2:29 pm
Updated: December 13, 2016, 3:31 pm

GATLINBURG (WATE) – The National Park Service is continuing to fight the Chimney Tops 2 fire, but at a news conference Tuesday the Great Smoky Mountain Association and the Gatlinburg Fire Department outlined some of the decisions they made. They outline how the fire grew from a little more than an acre to over 1,700 acres.

At 5:30 p.m. park firefighters observed a smoke column at the top of the Chimney Tops, which is located about 5.5 miles from the city of Gatlinburg. Clay Jordan, Deputy Superintendent of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, said the fire was about 1.5 acres in size, located in the North Spire.

“As darkness approached, a firefighting team hiked up the mountain to size-up the fire. They discovered the fire burning among a rock scramble at the top,” said Jordan. “Accessing this area of Chimney Tops is about a quarter mile rock scramble, beyond the peak that most hikers climb to at the end of the Chimney Tops trail.

Jordan said the park’s fire management officer was designated the incident commander. He said the fire management officer had 25 years of training and experience fighting wildland fires in the northeast with both the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service. With the rocky terrain and darkness, he said firefighters returned because there was nothing further they could do that evening.



The next morning, Jordan said the incident commander returned to the fire with a squad of firefighters. He said at that point the fire was creeping and smoldering in the thick vegetation at the top of the rocky summit.

“Given the inaccessible terrain, comprised of cliffs and thick vegetation, the crew decided that it was not safe, nor effective to dig a fire line around it, close to the fire, which is generally done by removing that vegetation down to bare soil as a method to stop the fire,” said Jordan. “They also knew that using helicopters to drop water on the fire would be ineffective. Bucket drops are used to slow an intensely burning fire, but they do not put out even a small wildland fire that is burning in deep duff.



The park’s fire management team applied an indirect attack strategy by identifying a 410-acre containment area where the terrain allowed the fire to be fought safely and effectively, according to Jordan. He said that is a standard firefighter suppression strategy in mountainous terrain.

Jordan said he was briefed on the plan of attack along with the park’s chief ranger and they all agreed that the fire attack plan was the only practical option for controlling the fire as quickly as possible.



The fire continued to back down the steep rocky slopes.

Firefighters continued to scout for routes to construct firelines closer to the fire, but no effective alternatives were found, according to Jordan.



By Saturday the fire had grown to six acres. A 4-Day Near Term Analysis from the USFS Rocky Mountain Research Station was requested. Jordan said their analysis modelled slow fire growth downhill over the next couple of days as the fire approached the containment boundaries.

The forecast did not model the behavior the fire generated on Monday, according to Jordan.



On Sunday, the WATE 6 Storm Team says winds picked-up and the humidity dropped. Jordan said the changing conditions allowed the fire activity to pick-up. The WATE 6 Storm Team and the National Weather Service issued a high wind watch predicting strong winds developing late Monday afternoon.

Jodan said Great Smoky Mountain National Park requested a spot weather forecast for the fire from the National Weather Service. He said the forecast predicted winds of 12 miles per hour gusting to 25 miles per hour in the morning to increase to 20 miles per hour and gusts to 40 miles per hour by 6 p.m. He said the prediction was much lower than the winds actually experienced throughout the day and evening on Monday, considering gusts recorded nearby were up to 87 miles per hour.

In anticipation of the high-wind forecast, Jordan said they ordered three large helicopters, in an effort to slow the intensity of the fire as it continued to back down steep slopes toward the containment lines. Helicopters dumped water on the hottest sections throughout the afternoon.

Meanwhile, Jordan said ground personnel worked on constructing firelines and improving the natural boundaries of the containment area. An order was placed for additional firefighters and wildland fire engines in preparation for the next day.

Late in the day Sunday, the fire was still at around 35 acres as mapped from the air using infrared sensors.



Overnight, the WATE 6 Storm Team says the weather changed overnight. Strong winds pushed the fire towards the northeast.

After the sun rose, Jordan said park staff discovered that burning embers had created smaller fires called “spot fires” as far as a half a mile to 1 mile from the main fire burning on Chimney Tops. Those fires were around Chimneys Picnic Area. There was also a spot fire on Bullhead Ridge.

“What we were observing was extraordinary fire behavior,” said Jordan. “Spot fires half a mile or more from the fire in this part of the country, in our experience, are extremely rare. In fact, the incident commander had never experienced this in the Southeast in his 25 years of fighting wildland fire.”Given the strong winds, exceptionally dry conditions and fire on the ridgelines out of reach of firefighters, containment of the fire was going to require a much larger effort once the winds died down.”

Jordan said they immediately ordered the response of a large number of firefighting crews, air resources and a complex fire incident management team. At that point, he said the spot fire on Bullhead Ridge was still 4.5 miles away from Gatlinburg and separated by several mountain drainages.

“It seemed inconceivable that this fire should pose any kind of threat to the community before the weather was expected to calm that night. But given the extreme behavior we had observed, we notified Gatlinburg Fire Department of the situation anyway so they could watch for spot fires, as unlikely as it seemed at the time,” said Jordan.

With additional resources arriving, Jordan said the park’s focus shifted to what they could do to protect threatened park structures using wildland fire engines.

“We were unable to track the movement of the fire very well over the next few hours with the whole region shrouded in smoke. Plus, aircraft were unable to fly in the strong winds,” said Jordan. “Hidden from our view, yet another extraordinary aspect of this fire was occurring.”

At around 11:35 a.m., Jordan said a spot fire was discovered in the Twin Creeks are of the park, about 1.5 miles up Cherokee Orchard Road from the Gatlinburg city boundary. The fire was about three miles downwind from the Bullhead Ridge spot fire.

“We don’t know just how the fire crossed the drainages between the two locations: whether embers hopped from ridge top to ridge top, each time starting a new fire that would then grow hot enough to shoot off new embers, or whether some ember managed to sail several miles through the air. But either way, it is remarkable that the fire could spread 3 miles in just four and a half hours. This phenomena is usually only seen in the West,” said Jordan.

The Gatlinburg Fire Department and park crews responded to provide structural protection, according to Jordan. He said the park also requested the response of bulldozers from the Tennessee Division of Forestry, dispatched to the park boundary in Gatlinburg.

Over the course of the day, Jordan said the fire spread to the north. He said the Gatlinburg Fire Department prepared to defend the South end of the city from the fire. Just before weather monitoring equipment died due to a power outage, the WATE 6 Storm Team said winds were recorded up to 87 miles per hour at 6:00 p.m. at Cove Mountain, which is just above Gatlinburg.

“First, we believe there was no way we could have controlled the fire prior to the wind event,” said Jordan. “Second, the reality is that we believe no number of firefighters or fire engines could have stopped the spread of such an extreme wind-driven fire.”

The national park said they will continue to explore the lessons learned during the incident and they appreciate the outpouring of support and resources from across the nation in helping to fight the fire.

News Source: www.local8now.com/content/news…

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - More events and companies are extending help to the people who were displaced by the wildfires that ripped through Sevier County more than two weeks ago.

First, KFW Wrestling is hosting a "Fight for Sevier County" event on Friday, Dec. 16, at the River Plantation RV Resort in Sevierville. All proceeds will go to benefit affected families.

The event is also an official "The Walking Dead" meet and greet, with several cast members from the hit AMC show in attendance. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit KFW Wrestling's Facebook page.

Nashville-based printing company Familytree Design is also doing its part to help fire victims. The company, which offers art prints of all 50 states, is donating half of the proceeds from its Tennessee print to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, which is offering support to fire relief efforts.

The print, which features an outline of Tennessee with a design of the Great Smoky Mountains within, is 13x19 inches, and is available unframed for $30 or one of a selection of framing options for $65-70. To learn more and purchase the print, visit Familytree's website.



News Source: www.local8now.com/content/news…

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Smoky Mountains Rise: A Benefit for the My People Fund will be aired on MyVLT on December 13 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The three hour telethon is organized by Dolly Parton to support those affected by the recent wildfires in and around Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Dolly and 22 of her friends, including Reba McEntire and Kenny Rogers are slated to perform during the benefit.

“I know there are a lot of great events being planned to help the people of East Tennessee, however, I am planning a telethon to support the ‘My People Fund’ where 100% of the money will help those who lost their homes in the wildfire. I am planning on doing this on Dec. 13th in Nashville, Tennessee,” the country legend said.

Parton announced the My People Fund on Nov. 30, after the airing of Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love, and has already pledged to provide $1000 each month to Sevier County families whose homes are uninhabitable or were completely destroyed in the recent Smoky Mountain wildfires.

During the telethon on December 13, viewers will be asked to call 1-866-CARE MORE to donate to the My People Fund. Anyone who would like to make a tax-deductible contribution to the My People Fund may visit dollywoodfoundation.org. For those wishing to send donations via mail, those contributions should be sent to: My People Fund, c/o Dollywood Foundation, 111 Dollywood Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.



News Source: wate.com/2016/12/12/gatlinburg…
WATE 6 staff
Published: December 12, 2016, 5:29 pm
Updated: December 12, 2016, 5:30 pm

GATLINBURG (WATE) – With the shelter population dropping from hundreds to 17 over the weekend, the city of Gatlinburg is moving the Red Cross Shelter at Rocky Top Sports World to the meeting room at the Gatlinburg Community Center.

The city said the Community Center will operate on its normal schedule. School buses will continue to drop off students at the community center and the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains after School. Students may be dropped off at the Smoky Mountain Boys and Girls Club, free of charge, on a temporary basis as long as the Community Center is being used as a shelter.

For more information, call (865) 436-4990.



News Source: www.local8now.com/content/news…

Posted: Sun 5:37 PM, Dec 11, 2016
Updated: Sun 5:45 PM, Dec 11, 2016

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) -- A group of volunteers from across the country helped residents who lost everything, find what the fire spared Saturday.

The group Samaritan's Purse based out of North Carolina, brought dozens of volunteers to Gatlinburg last week. Their goal is to help homeowners find anything of value that didn't burn in the fire.

The group used shovels and sift through the rubble by hand to find valueables. Saturday the group helped Sandy Cover who lost her home. The group did find a few things and Cover says the help is a blessing, especially since she's been dealing with the loss of her husband who died two weeks before the fire.

""Oh I've just felt loved, I feel love from these people, I feel love from God. I just feel like everyone is working together just to help people," said Covers.

If you want to join Samaritan's Purse you can find the information here: www.samaritanspurse.org/

The group has a list of volunteers who get notified when there is a disaster area that needs help.



News Source: wate.com/2016/12/09/businesses…

By Don Dare and Jennifer Webb Published: December 9, 2016, 6:20 pm

GATLINBURG (WATE) – Many prominent Gatlinburg businesses were back to serving customers Friday, 11 days after the deadly wildfires.

Tourists from all over the country came back to town to enjoy some of their favorite activities.

Calhoun’s opened right on time at 11 a.m. Reopening was a relief for the workers and servers.

“Money-wise, you have to keep your bills up and I need to be back at work,” said server Heather Kyker.

“It’s been two weeks since I got to work last. Pockets are definitely feeling it, this close to Christmas,” said server Cheyenne Gibson.

Terry Calhoun is a baker at the popular restaurant. The father of four lost his home in the fire. For a while, he was concerned about whether he would have a job.

“I was feeling hopeless there for a good week and a half to two weeks, not knowing what the future held. And being able to come back here and know that, I love the people I work with. I love this place to work. I’m still making money. I feel useful again,” he said.

Calhoun’s Village has three different restaurants. At one point last week, management wasn’t sure if their buildings would be intact. Fortunately, there was no major damage.

“Buildings were intact. We had some wind damage, but we had been, I guess, lucky the fire didn’t get on our property, unlike other people who weren’t so lucky,” said manager Bart Frick.

Ron and Bonita Peyton came from Morristown to be some of the restaurant’s first customers.

“I wanted to support the people in Gatlinburg and all that they went through. And one way to do it is to come, shop and eat and dine and spend some money,” said Ron Peyton.

“This is such a big time of year for them. It really broke my heart when I thought it was going to be gone this year. Having to come back from all of this is hard enough, but missing their main shopping season and people coming to vacation and spend money would have been devastating,” said Bonita Peyton.

It took three days to bring in all the food and get the restaurant cleaned up. Calhoun’s Village believes this will be a successful winter season.



Ripley’s Aquarium is the top attraction in Gatlinburg and people piled in on Friday. The aquarium reopened at 8 a.m. to enthusiastic visitors.

“We actually called to cancel our reservations, and they said don’t worry, everything will be back up and running within the week. So we got real excited. We had everything packed up and ready to go. We definitely didn’t want to miss this,” said Nikki Lee Chase.

“We had planned to be here this weekend. When the fire happened, we cancelled. When they talked about reopening today, we rescheduled and got up early to show up,” said Larry Schell.

Special generators kept life support systems working to protect the thousands of aquatic creatures during the time the aquarium, along with the rest of Gatlinburg, was closed. Ripley’s is also taking care of its employees.

“We’ve made sure all of our employees have been paid throughout. They’ve gotten their normal paychecks, no problems, no misses, no anything. We’ve had 31 employees lose their homes. We have 29 people permanently placed at our expense and the other two should be placed by the end of the day, fingers crossed,” said General Manager Ryan DeSear.

Several hundred employees work at Ripley’s during the busy winter season. All are glad to be back.

“It’s important to bring the community back together,” said photographer Jacque Newton. “And just for everybody to be together. It’s almost like a festive atmosphere.”

Some elementary school students from Grainger County were very excited. Their field trip to the aquarium continued as scheduled.

“It’s been a traumatic couple of weeks for all the citizens of Gatlinburg, and all the employees of Gatlinburg and all the businesses of Gatlinburg. But being normal, having visitors in the building and acting like a normal December day is amazing,” said DeSear.



The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was full of people on Friday, despite the cold temperatures. Everyone is happy the park is back open.

The park had wind and fire damage and crews had to remove trees and clean up rock slides. The park’s Sugarland area reopened Friday, allowing visitors back into some of their favorite spots.

“To tell you the truth, I was very interested in seeing if there was any damage done to the wildlife center, which is right here. I’ve always enjoyed it every time I’ve come to Tennessee,” said John Thompson from Kingston.

Park employees are happy to have guests back as well.

“Oh we’re so happy to have people back in the park. This has been such a devastating week for our Gatlinburg community and our hearts have really been broken over the whole tragedy. And so its just super nice to open and to be able to have visitors back to the Gatlinburg area and visitors back to the Smokies as well,” said Jamie Sanders with the park.



WATE 6 anchor Kristin Farley had a chance to catch up with Gatlinburg Mayor Mike Werner Wednesday night and get his thoughts on the arrests of two juveniles in the deadly wildfires and the reopening of the city.

FARLEY: “Mayor, it has been some time since we’ve a chance to have a one-on-one conversation with you. I appreciate you coming down. We’ve got to start with today’s big developments. Two arrests, but obviously even these arrests cannot possibly comfort the people here. What is your reaction today?”

WERNER: “I know a lot of people have just had a lot of questions. How did it start? You know, how did it happen? I think that it’s closure for a lot of people, but it’s still devastating, the whole thing. Our hearts go out to everybody and we just want to get back to normal. We have such a great relationship with the national park. That’s what’s making Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg. Everybody has done everything they possibly can to help everybody during the tragedy. First responders, they are risking their lives. They are doing everything possible, going door to door, every avenue we had to tell people to evacuate, we were using. And it’s just part of this whole story, but I think it did bring closure to some people today.”

FARLEY: “It did. I think a lot of people were kind of surprised and/or shocked that we got some answers possibly this quickly.”

WERNER: “I think so too, but I know that the TBI, the national park, everybody has been working nonstop, you know like all of us have, to try to get some answers that people want.”

FARLEY: “Let’s shift gears. We’re looking down into your beautiful city. Each and every time we come down here, we see another renewed sense of positivity and a chance of opening back up and returning to some sense of normalcy. How are you feeling tonight taking a look down the street?”

WERNER: “I’m feeling great. We worked so hard to get back and get the business started again and do the things we need to do. And everybody’s joined to gether to make this happen. Friday morning we’re back in business. Tonight there’s nobody in town, but Friday night, come back and it’s going to be packed with people.”

FARLEY: “One last quick question. A huge part of this is getting employees back to work, getting cash flow back in their pockets, if that has stopped through all of this, and getting them back into a routine. And that includes you. You have a lot of employees yourself. How is that going?”

WERNER: “You know, our employees have been like family. We’ve had the same employees for so long and our heart goes out to them and we’re doing everything we possibly can to help them. There was a Facebook fund for our employees. They had a goal of $10,000 and they reached that in a couple of days. People are just really anxious to help everybody. But the businesses are going to be back open and come to town and enjoy Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg is intact. Our downtown is intact, and I think that’s one of the biggest stories we want to make sure that gets out.”

At 3PM on December 7th, a press conference was held in order to answer questions about an arson fire which nearly wiped out the mountain city of Gatlinburg and sent thousands fleeing for their lives, after which many would lose everything they owned. There were several deaths. There were no easy answers, only more unanswered questions.

"We are pleased to announce that two people have been charged for their role in starting the fires," says TBI Director, Mark Gwyn.

But when news came that the fires that devastated a region and killed at least 14 people, allegedly came at the hands of juveniles, there were only more questions.

"I am prohibited from saying any more than I already have," said District Attorney General James Dunn.

Because of the active investigation and the fact that the people charged are juveniles, officials aren't releasing their names or why they allegedly did it.

Captain John Steele with the Knoxville Fire Department has investigated countless cases of arson.

"To be charged with arson you have to prove that they intentionally set the fire to cause damage," he says. "Aggravated arson means you have people present when you set the fire."

While he doesn't know specifics of this case, Steele says determining if a fire is arson usually doesn't take long.

"Then comes the task of who or why or how..That's the hardest part," he says.

That's where the public comes in.

"Anybody that was out in the woods or out in the park, anything they saw can't be dismissed," he said.

A national park ranger backs that up, saying the public was critical in helping bring charges against these two juveniles.

"The tip-line had approximately forty tips after just a few minutes of going online," says Chief Ranger, Steve Kloster.

While relief may be still a ways off, more questions will soon get their answers.

"Additional charges are being considered and all options available to the state when dealing with juveniles are on the table," says Dunn.



It's a question many are starting to ask. Could more have been done to prevent fourteen people from dying? Sevier County authorities say the evacuation text intended to alert the public never got there. Local 8 News Anchor Lauren Davis is finding out exactly what happened.

Firefighters started fighting the Chimney Tops fire Sunday, then on Monday Gatlinburg became filled with smoke. John Matthews, the Sevier County EMA Director says, "We sent out a notification to cell phone devices at 9:04 to evacuate the city."

Two hours later, NWS says they sent out another immediate evacuation order went out at 11:47 for Pigeon Forge. But why weren't the evacuations made earlier. Cassius Cash, the Park Superintendent, says, "I don't have the jurisdiction to evacuate a town. We work collectively and that's what we did on Monday okay. We said it's prudent we start thinking about moving people."

On Tuesday, the day after the fires, our own Ted Hall asked Governor Haslam what he thought about the evacuation orders. Governor Haslams says, "I don't know. My sense and I'm watching from Nashville and watching from all the agencies coordination. They did an incredible job getting everyone on the same page. The fire came out of the National Park. They quickly let the local folks know. I don't know the answer to your question, but from where I was watching, the inner-agency cooperation was really outstanding."

The EMA director told Local 8 they'd never dealt with anything like this before and it took a while to make the decision to evacuate the whole city. Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters promises to take a look at the evacuation system when the dust settles. Mayor Waters says, "We'll sit down and evaluate what went on and how it can be improved. We can always improve any system you have and we feel confident that we can do that."

Officials tell us the National Weather Service sent out the alerts through the emergency alert system. That does not go to cell phones, just TV's and radio's. In Gatlinburg, city officials are doing their best to help locate those who are reported missing.

Ranger Dana Soehn, Spokesperson for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, says officials have created a Facebook page where you can report if someone is missing or has been found. The Facebook group is "Chimney 2 Fire". On the page you can report missing people, or let officials know you've found someone.



On Wednesday, December 7, property owners, business owners, renters, and lease holders will be allowed to return to full-time occupancy beginning at 7:00 a.m. through the East Parkway (Hwy. 321) entry point. The curfew will then be in effect from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. on both Wednesday and Thursday. Delivery trucks (food service, etc.) may enter through the East Parkway (Hwy. 321) entry point and the Spur entrance checkpoint to Gatlinburg. Only delivery trucks can enter through the Spur checkpoint.

The City of Gatlinburg plans to reopen for business and to the general public on Friday, December 9 at 7:00 a.m. Major roadways are expected to be open, but some city roadways may remain closed to accommodate utility work. More information will be provided throughout the week.

Local officials have provided the following update:

· To date, there are 14 confirmed fatalities. The following individual has been newly identified: Robert A. Hejny, age 63, discovered at Traveler’s Motel in Gatlinburg, TN.

· To date, there have been 160 injuries/illnesses.

· 1,785 structures have been damaged or destroyed by the fire.

· There are currently 24 crews, 45 engines, 4 helicopters, 2 dozers, 719 total personnel fighting the Chimney Top 2 Fire as a part of the Type 1 Federal Incident Management Team.

· The Chimney Top 2 Fire is estimated to be 58% contained. The Cobbly Nob Fire is estimated to be 53% contained.

· The Spur parkway is open only from Pigeon Forge to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center.

· Wiley Oakley Drive and Cliff Branch Road remain inaccessible due to critical utility work. Emergency crews are working to open it as soon as possible.

· The Water Boil Advisory is still in effect for the following areas in Gatlinburg: Ski Mountain, Chalet Village, Greystone Heights, and Campbell Lead areas. The Water Boil Advisory was lifted for the downtown area.

· Water usage from the firefighting activities and loss from fire-damaged structures has greatly affected the water supply. Due to the substantial loss of water in certain storage tanks and water lines it may appear cloudy or discolored for a period of time. Running a substantial amount of water through all outlets in the plumbing system should expel the discoloration within a period of time. The water supply for the downtown area has stabilized and is at full capacity. Water service in the east Gatlinburg area was not affected by this event.

· Due to severe fire damage to certain water system pumping stations, the following residential areas are temporarily still out of water service:

o Greystone Heights Road
o Cliff Branch Road,
o Loop Road
o Topside Drive and Topside Road
o Little Fox Road
o Forest Springs Drive and Forest Springs Lane
o Spring Drive
o Silverbell Heights
o Silverbell Lane (above intersection with Loop Road)
o Foothills Drive
o Kings Way, both sides and outside city limits
o Colt Lane
o Mountain Stream Way (Gatlinburg Falls PUD)
o Gatlinburg Falls Way (Gatlinburg Falls PUD)
o Great Smoky Way (Gatlinburg Falls PUD)

Video of folks evacuating Gatlinburg. Multiple sirens around the city. pic.twitter.com/S7g4PVW53z

— Kyle Grainger WVLT (@KyleGrainger) November 29, 2016

Here's a list of ways you can help #Gatlinburg fire crews and people displaced. wvlt t.co/Eu5M52vCgh

— Brittany Tarwater (@WVLTBrittany) November 29, 2016

Just interviewed a woman who recorded her escape from the flames. You can hear her crying and saying "oh no". She lost everything. wvlt pic.twitter.com/kS8j0WCc0H

— Amanda Hara (@AmandaHara) November 29, 2016

Volunteer TV Channel 8 is covering the story live.

(WVLT) -- A mandatory evacuation order was issued for downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge residents and guests located in the areas between traffic light 8 and the Spur are under mandatory evacuation after TEMA issued a Level 3 State of Emergency with 30 structures on fire in Gatlinburg, including a 16-story hotel on Regan Drive, and the Driftwood Apartments near the Park Vista Hotel. The National Guard was mobilized to Sevier County.

TEMA reports that as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, 14,000 people evacuated Sevier County. There are 50 to 60 fire crews battling the fires, as well as 150 personnel from outside the area. Three people with severe burns were transferred from UT Medical to Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville overnight. A fourth person with burns to their face continues to be evaluated at UT Medical. Currently, there are no reports of fatalities.

In an update from TEMA Tuesday morning, the agency reported that about 100 homes in Sevier County are impacted by the fire, including 10 homes in Gatlinburg.

At this point, Sevier County reports 11,595 people without power. An estimated 1,300 people occupied six Red Cross or independently-operated shelters.

According to Pigeon Forge Fire Chief Tony Watson, there are multiple active fires in Pigeon Forge that crews are working to contain. Power outages continue in various areas of the city. In the city of Pigeon Forge, nine residential structures were destroyed by fire. Pigeon Forge officials say 125 people are displaced and remain in local emergency shelters.

Approximately 100 firefighters from 15 additional stations throughout East Tennessee are battling the blazes. More will join the effort later this morning.

Tennessee Emergency Management Association officials are currently on site in Pigeon Forge to support local officials.

Dollywood, the 19 cabins owned by Dollywood, and Dollywood's DreamMore Resort were evacuated. Dollywood officials say there is no fire damage at this time.

Ober Gatlinburg said, "Our property is okay. Please keep Sevier County in your thoughts and prayers! "

Three county school buses are available for emergency transport and are being dispatched as needed to transport those who need to evacuate. The following locations are open and ready to receive those who need shelter: LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, 
Pigeon Forge Community Center, Liberty Baptist Church in Wears Valley, and 
Iglesia Cristiana LaDuz De Jesus. First Baptist Church in Sevierville has opened for evacuees.

Sevier County Schools, Cocke County Schools, Newport Grammar School, and Greene County Schools are closed for Tuesday.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency is asking Sevier County residents to stay off mobile devices unless it's for emergency calls.

According to Gatlinburg Building Inspector Mark Watson, Downtown Main Street and the Mountain Lodge are total losses. Watson said that Pi Beta Phi and Arrowmont are gone. He also reported that Greystone Heights is on fire.

Officials with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park issued an air quality advisory and closed the park Monday. According to an update from GSMNP Tuesday morning, park officials reported "widespread fire damage" and continued fire activity throughout the Gatlinburg area and much of Sevier County including Wears Valley, Pigeon Forge and Jones Cove.

Gatlinburg City officials reported numerous structures completely lost to fire including businesses in the downtown area and private homes throughout the area.

A representative with the park says the air quality is unhealthy for the Sevier County section of the park and adjacent areas, especially in the Gatlinburg area due to heavy smoke from the nearby Chimney 2 Fire. The Sevier County Humane Society said all animals are safe after an evacuation.

Investigators say the Chimney 2 fire started on November 23 on the north spire of the Chimney Tops. It was first reported at less than two acres and grew to eight acres by November 26. Spot fires spread outside the containment area Sunday due to 20 mph winds.

Chimney 2 fire officials have reports of people flying matches and say the fire was human-caused.

Students at the Pi Beta Phi Elementary School in Gatlinburg were moved to the Rocky Top Sports World Complex at 12:30 p.m. Monday as a precaution due to the air quality advisory.

People in the area were advised to refrain from strenuous or prolonged physical outdoor activities and limit exposure.

Newfound Gap Road, Cherokee Orchard Road, Elkmont Road, and several trails were closed Monday due to the Chimney 2 Fire.

Currently 80 people are working to fight the Chimney 2 fire. More crews are expected to arrive late Monday or early Tuesday.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park received notice of a fire 150 yards behind the Twin Creek Pavilion off Cherokee Orchard Road at 11:35 a.m. It is unknown if the fire is associated with the Chimney 2 fire. Gatlinburg Police Officers went door to door asking residents of the Mynatt Park neighborhood to voluntarily evacuate to the Red Cross Evacuation Shelter set up at the Gatlinburg Community Center at 156 Proffitt Road on Monday afternoon. Residents needing transportation to the shelter can call 865-436-5181 for assistance.

Conditions remain extremely dangerous and officials say to stay off the roadways throughout the area. Travel in the Gatlinburg area is limited to emergency traffic only.

At this time, officials have not determined the current size of the fire, the number of structures burned, or injuries.

In the wake of the wildfires raging through Sevier County that have already displaced more than 14,000 people, already several individuals and organizations have stepped in to plan fundraisers and donation drives.

Here is a current list of the ways you can help:

Sacred Heart Cathedral School is accepting donations for firefighters Tuesday. They ask for bottled beverages including water, Powerade, and Gatorade, as well as high-calorie, minimally-packaged food such as protein bars and candy, and gloves, lip balm, and wool socks. Items can be dropped off at the white box truck in front of the parish offices on the way to the school, located at 711 Northshore Drive. The school plans to deliver items to firefighters at noon Tuesday.

Star 102.1 is collecting water, clothing, food, and pet care donations at their station, located at 1533 Amherst Road.

Fox Feed Supply in Jefferson City will serve as a drop-off location for Paws & Claws Animal Rescue TN. They are collecting bottled water and other drinks, as well as packaged snacks for firefighters. Items can be dropped off at their store, located at 250 W. Old AJ Hwy, Jefferson City, TN 37760. For more information call or text Wendy at 423-312-7400.

Remote Area Medical is responding to the fires and says anyone is welcome to call them if they'd like to volunteer to help. Contact RAM at 865-579-2555.

Tom Giles is holding another Fuel Our Firefighters drive at High Places Church in Oak Ridge Tuesday from 1:00-5:00 p.m. The church is located at 123 Randolph Road.

Danielle Yancey is collecting donations, including drinks and small packaged snacks, at the Outreach Church in Oneida, from 8:30 a.m. until noon Tuesday. If someone is unable to drop off donated items, they can contact Danielle at 423-223-2615.

The Sevier Co. Rescue Squad is collecting water and Gatorade for firefighters at their location across from Sevier Co. High School.

The Blount Co. Chamber of Commerce and the Townsend Visitors Center are collecting items for displaced families and first responders. People can drop off items at the Chamber, located at 201 S. Washington Street in Maryville, or the Visitors Center at 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy. in Townsend. Needed items include water and Gatorade, canned or packaged food such as crackers and candy, pet food, blankets, diapers, jackets, and gloves and scarves. Donations will be accepted from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For any questions, call 865-983-2241.

Another group will be collecting donations at the Kroger on Emory Road in Knoxville from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday; they will then take donated items to the mobile command center in Sevier County. They are asking for supplies including water, baby wipes, eye drops, lip balm, cotton socks, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and Advil, Gatorade, and packaged high-calorie snacks.

The Loudon County Sheriff's Office is accepting items to help firefighters and others displaced by the fires. Drop off Powerade, Gatorade, bottled water, snack bars and other easy-to-handle snacks at the LCSO/Justice Center. No monetary donations are being accepted.

Hard Knox Pizzeria in Knoxville is accepting donations of water and other beverages, canned and packaged food to take to the Red Cross. Donations can also be dropped off at other restaurants in Western Plaza, including Blackhorse Pub, Moe's, Runners Market, or Yassin's Falafel House downtown.

Twisted Mike's, located at 7125 Kingston Pike in Knoxville, is accepting donations of non-perishable food items and toys for children impacted by the fire all week. They will take donations to Sevier County on Friday.

The Ice Chalet at 100 Lebanon Street in Knoxville, is also collecting items for emergency crews and evacuees. They ask for donations of water or Gatorade, blankets, and protein bars, in exchange for a free public session pass. The business plans to collect donations every day until the need is past.

The Knoxville Chive is collecting the following items for fire victims: water, Gatorade, Pedialyte, basic toiletries, blankets, pillows, batteries, non-perishable food, baby food, diapers, stuffed animals, clothing, pet food, kennels, and oxygen and insulin. Follow their Facebook page to find out donation locations.

Recovery Strategies, located at 120 Centre Park Dr., Ste. 9, Knoxville, TN 37922, is collecting coats, water food, and personal items through Friday, after which point they will take donations to Sevierville. Recovery Strategies is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Greenback Memorial Church, located at 292 TN-95 is another location taking donations of water, Gatorade, snacks, and hygiene items. No monetary donations are being accepted. Items can be donated in the Fellowship Hall and will be taken to Sevier Co. later this week. Contact Pastor Lon Shockley at 865-719-5717 for more information.

Regal Cinemas' Pinnacle at Turkey Creek will host a drop-off for the Red Cross. They are collecting bottled water and other beverages, toiletries, clothing, flashlights, batteries, walkers and canes, diapers and wipes, baby formula, non-perishable foods, protein bars, and pet supplies. Items can be dropped off all day Tuesday at the theater's parking lot. Pinnacle is located at 11240 Parkside Drive in Knoxville.

The Center for Leadership and Service on the University of Tennessee campus is also collecting donations, including snacks, bottled water, and toiletries, to donate to the Red Cross. They are located at 2238 Dunford Hall, or you can also drop items off at the Office of the Dean of Students at 413 Student Services Building. Call 865-974-1039 for more information. Any students affected by the fires can contact 865-974-3179 or email dos@utk.edu.

For those who would like to offer spiritual support, a prayer circle is planned for noon Tuesday on Market Square.

The Red Cross has asked for cash donations only for the time being. Text 90999 to make a $10 donation or click here to select a different amount.

Here are some people and organizations offering help to those who need it:

Mandy Tietjen runs an Airbnb in Fountain City and has offered clean beds and a hot breakfast for any evacuees. Contact Mandy on Facebook.

Several restaurants around East Tenn. are offering free meals to emergency personnel, including Old Dad's General Store & Deli on the Parkway in Gatlinburg, Hard Knox Pizzeria in Knoxville (contact Alexa Sponcia at 865-438-6500 for more information), Huck Finn's Catfish in Pigeon Forge, and Texas Roadhouse in Pigeon Forge.

Big Fatty's on Kingston Pike in Knoxville is offering free food to anyone affected by the fires.

Camp Montvale in Blount County is open for evacuees. The camp has several cabins available and can accept pets and horses. Camp Montvale is located at 4901 Montvale Road and you can contact Pam Wolf at 865-250-7420 or Marsha Sliker at 865-982-5225.

Brian Minton is also offering help evacuating horses, mules, and other livestock in the Gatlinburg area. Contact him at 865-388-6886 to arrange a pickup.

Wildwood Farm, located at 4902 Green Road in Maryville, is also offering assistance transporting and housing horses and other livestock. Contact Julie Maner at 865-256-9589.

The Shangri-La Therapeutic Academy of Riding is also offering housing to large animals. Contact them at 865-988-4711.

Curtis Barnard of First Choice Firewood & Tree Trimming is offering tree removal service to anyone affected by the fire. Contact him at 423-200-8600.

Phil Minor, executive manager at Fenton Nissan in Knoxville, says the car dealership has 40,000 square feet, enough room to house 80 evacuees, and enough bedding, food, and water for everyone. Retired Knoxville police officers offer around-the-clock security, and the dealership will pick up groups of up to 15. Contact 865-740-6749 or philip.minor@fentonmotors.com to arrange a pickup with at least 25 minutes notice.

Dr. Kelly Faris has offered up his three-bedroom rental cabin in Seymour for any evacuees needing a place to stay. He can house up to 10 people in the cabin. Contact him at 865-660-5369, or through VRBO.

The Tennessee Valley Coalition to End Homelessness hopes to offer more permanent solutions to people displaced by the fire by working with various organizations to help victims find new homes. Visit them on Facebook to learn more.



Updated: Thu 8:45 PM, Dec 01, 2016


(WVLT) -- The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) confirmed an additional fatality Thursday night due to Monday's wildfires in Sevier County, bringing the death toll to 11.

Sevier County officials said Thursday that 80 people were treated for injuries.

Officials said three people were found dead from fires in the Chalet Village area, and one person was discovered dead near a motel on Highway 321. Three more people were found dead on Campbell Lead Road. Authorities did not release details about the other fatalities.

Two others were rescued safely at Westgate Resorts and one person was rescued on Ski Mountain.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation said it has received 100 phone calls, since it established a hotline, 1-800-TBI-FIND, for people to call with reports of missing loved ones. Agents continue to follow 70 leads on missing persons but could not release an update on the Reed family at Thursday's 11 a.m. press conference.

Officials said more than 700 structures in the county were destroyed in the fires. 300 of then were destroyed in Gatlinburg. The forestry service said more than 17,108 acres were burned. 11,000 of them were reportedly inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Mayor Waters said all fires in the city and county are extinguished except for a few hot spots.

Officials said Zone 1 has been 80 percent searched, zone 2 has been 90 percent searched and zones 3 and 4 are still being investigated.

Fire officials confirm that 20 engines, 7 helicopters, 4 dozers, and more than 285 emergency workers have battled the fires for over 65 hours.

Roads in Sevier County will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, giving property owners, renters, and business owners limited access. Authorities warned people to enter at their own risk due to downed powerlines and trees. The entry point for Gatlinburg access will be at East Parkway Highway 321.

We're the strongest community I've ever seen," said The Gatlinburg Mayor.

Authorities said a map of properties damaged by the fire will be on the Facebook page called "Chimney Tops 2 Fire" late Thursday.

This update comes after after a mandatory evacuation order was issued for downtown Gatlinburg residents and guests after TEMA issued a Level 3 State of Emergency with 70 homes in Wears Valley, 70 homes in Cobbly Nob, and 150 structures damaged or destroyed by fire in Sevier County, including a 16-story hotel on Regan Drive, and the Driftwood Apartments near the Park Vista Hotel. The mandatory emergency evacuation for Pigeon Forge was lifted Tuesday. The National Guard was mobilized to Sevier County.

TEMA reports that 14,000 people evacuated Sevier County Monday night. Officials say a boil alert is in effect for Gatlinburg city water. Gatlinburg's Tuesday night curfew continues into Thursday night from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

The City of Gatlinburg has also requested that customers conserve water as much as possible, since firefighting activities, combined with the water loss in burned structures, has placed a significant demand on the water resources of the city.

Gatlinburg Chief Miller told media outlets early Tuesday, "The worst is definitely over."

Dollywood, the 19 cabins owned by Dollywood, and Dollywood's DreamMore Resort were evacuated Monday evening. Dollywood officials say there is no fire damage at this time. The East Tennessee amusement park will reopen Friday. The Dolly Foundation announced plans to provide $1,000 a month for six months to families who lost their homes in the Sevier County fires.

Ober Gatlinburg said, "Our property is okay. Please keep Sevier County in your thoughts and prayers! "

Three county school buses are available for emergency transport and are being dispatched as needed to transport those who need to evacuate. The following locations are open and ready to receive those who need shelter: LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, 
Pigeon Forge Community Center, Liberty Baptist Church in Wears Valley, and 
Iglesia Cristiana LaDuz De Jesus. First Baptist Church in Sevierville has opened for evacuees.

Sevier Co. Schools will be open Friday with the exception of Pi Beta Phi Elementary and Gatlinburg-Pittman High School. Cocke County Schools reopened Thursday except for Smoky Mountain Elementary, which will be closed for the remainder of the week. The school received damage to the library and gym. The roof has been blown off, according to assistant director of schools Casey Kelly. Officials announced that Pi Beta Phi Elementary had minor damage and smoke damage.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency is asking Sevier County residents to stay off mobile devices unless it's for emergency calls.

Officials with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park issued an air quality advisory and closed the park Monday. According to an update from GSMNP Tuesday morning, park officials reported "widespread fire damage" and continued fire activity throughout the Gatlinburg area and much of Sevier County including Wears Valley, Pigeon Forge and Jones Cove.

A representative with the park says the air quality is unhealthy for the Sevier County section of the park and adjacent areas, especially in the Gatlinburg area due to heavy smoke from the nearby Chimney 2 Fire. The Sevier County Humane Society said all animals are safe after an evacuation.

Investigators say the Chimney 2 fire started on November 23 on the north spire of the Chimney Tops. It was first reported at less than two acres and grew to eight acres by November 26. Spot fires spread outside the containment area Sunday due to 20 mph winds.

Chimney 2 fire officials have reports of people flying matches and say the fire was human-caused.

Students at the Pi Beta Phi Elementary School in Gatlinburg were moved to the Rocky Top Sports World Complex at 12:30 p.m. Monday as a precaution due to the air quality advisory.

People in the area were advised to refrain from strenuous or prolonged physical outdoor activities and limit exposure.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park received notice of a fire 150 yards behind the Twin Creek Pavilion off Cherokee Orchard Road at 11:35 a.m. Monday. It is unknown if the fire is associated with the Chimney 2 fire.

Conditions remain extremely dangerous and officials say to stay off the roadways throughout the area. Travel in the Gatlinburg area is limited to emergency traffic only.