Every so often, our friend Bill Bryant at Holston Home sends us the most amazing photos - and this time the story that goes along with the photo is just as great.

Bill sent the following story along with these great photos:

Early this morning, thanks to the diligence and quick actions of a Chocolate Labrador Retriever, a fruit thief was caught “red-handed” in the act of illegally procuring pears.  The brazen burglar was nabbed picking them right out of the tree and in broad daylight. 

Kudos to an observant family dog!

The raccoon was chased up a neighbor’s pear tree by Chocolate, the family dog. At mid-morning the raccoon was still custody. According to Bryant, the likelihood of bail is non-existent at the time of this release.

Abingdon, Va.—When her grandson was diagnosed with kidney cancer, Wilma Powers made a deal with God. 

If He helped four-year-old Dalton survive, she would donate her time and money to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Today, Dalton is a healthy ten-year-old boy, and Wilma has donated more than $13,000 to St. Jude’s. 

She raises the money at Leroy’s Flea Market each weekend.

Look for my video report on Wilma’s pact, Saturday at 6:00 p.m. on 11 Connects.

Johnson City, Tenn—Area scouts will decorate graves at the V.A. Mountain Home in Johnson City Saturday.

They plan to place flags in remembrance of veterans for the upcoming Memorial Day holiday.

The scouts will meet by the V.A. gazebo at 12:30 p.m.

The public is invited to attend.

Rogersville, Tenn.—Classic automobile enthusiasts will line Rogersville’s Historic Main Street Friday night for its second-annual “Cruise-Ins on the Square.“

The program was introduced last year.  This year, it will be held June through October, on the second Friday of each month, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Friday’s kick-off event coincides with the Random Rods Car Show, held annually at Memory Lane.

I’ll talk to those automobile enthusiasts about the big three automakers, and see how Rogersville’s cruise-in compares to similar programs in other parts of the region.

Look for my video report, tonight on 11 Connects at 11:00 p.m.

Allen Taylor, Steve Croley, Steve Mize, Richard Donoho, Mike Woodward, and James “Doc” Jones will celebrate three decades of EMT service on Thursday.  At 6:00 p.m., they will be honored by the Johnson City Commission.

More on the changes they’ve seen, a look back at their first year of service, and what these EMTs are up to now, on 11 Connects at 11:00 p.m.

Greeneville, Tenn.—The 15th Annual Iris festival will continue with its second straight day of singing and dancing from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday.

Singing stage line-up:

12:00 p.m. - Greater Glory
1:45 p.m. - The Foundations
3:30 p.m. - Rick Strickland

Dance Schedule:

12:15 p.m. - Rose Center Dancers
12:45 p.m. - Dancers Unlimited
1:30 p.m. - Tennessee Foothill Cloggers
2:15 p.m. - Stoney Creek Cloggers
3:00 p.m. - Trailblazer Cloggers
3:45 p.m. - Phase 3 Dance and Drama
4:30 p.m. - Praise Cloggers

Some people take lemons and make lemonade.
One local viewer took a pandemic, and made us all laugh. The virus formerly known as “swine flu” and now known as the H1N1 virus is spreading across the U.S. but luckily hasn’t proven as fatal here as it has been in other countries.
While I don’t want to downplay the seriousness of a pandemic, or the fact that this virus can indeed be deadly - sometimes it is nice to step back and look at the lighter side of things.
Watch the video on You Tube, here.

Roan Mountain, Tenn.—Lydia Powell just celebrated her 105th birthday with family and friends at the Roan Highlands Nursing Center in Carter County.

Today, I’ll talk with this amazing woman about the flu pandemic of 1918.

How does concern over today’s H1N1 virus compare to the atmosphere she lived through in the early 20th Century?

Look for my full report on News Channel 11 Connects at 6:00 p.m.

Johnson City, Tenn.—Here’s a few events that might draw you to downtown Johnson City tonight:

1.  Nelson Fine Art hosts a ceramic show.

2.  Tipton Galleries features art displays by a pair of students from the East Tennessee State University Honors College.

3.  Free earring assembly and snacks at Beadworks.

4.  Russo’s offers a special menu and outdoor grilling.

5.  The Hands-On Museum will conduct “Science on the Street” and raise funds for their “Art with Heart” program.

Police will close Main Street in downtown Johnson City at 6:00 p.m. and re-open it at midnight.

Look for me live on Main Street at 6:00 p.m., and on News Channel 11 Connects.

ABINGDON, Va. – Not many people attend them, but budget work sessions are an under-appreciated function of local government.

If you really want to know what’s going on, what all the issues are, what are the little bones of contention among public officials and county residents, it’s worth the hours of line-by-line discussion.

One by one, they go through every issue that has a price tag, and a lot of side issues and plans come up along the way. It’s a one-stop, if lengthy, update on the state of the county, and a way to observe firsthand how all the little pieces add up to a whole.

The making of illegal whiskey was a thriving business in East Tennessee for decades before, during, and after prohibition.  But where does it stand today?  And why did moonshiners take up a potentially dangerous and illegal profession in the first place?

I take a look at the history of the moonshine trade in Carter and Unicoi counties, talk with former moonshine distillers and runners, and take a road trip to Roanoke, Virginia for a guided tour with moonshine historian Roddy Moore—director of the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum at Ferrum College.

I also tackle sterotypes—some accurate, others exaggerated—as they apply to the makers of moonshine.

The Moonshine Business - Part One airs Tuesday at 11:00 p.m. on 11 Connects.

Greeneville, Tenn.—On November 24th, 2007 the sanctuary, fellowship hall, and Sunday school classrooms of Baileyton United Methodist Church were destroyed by a massive fire. 

Before the Sunday worship service (at 11:00 a.m.) parishoners, local leaders, and other area churches will break ground on a new facility.

“We invited 140 churches to attend, and are expecting a large crowd,“ said event organizer Ken Bailey.

The church, erected in 1905, was a staple in the Baileyton community.

Investigators originally said the fire started in the furnace.  Later, they mentioned faulty fuses as a possible cause.  I plan to clarify today.

Gray, Tenn.—The barometer is expected to peak in the 80s Saturday, a perfect start to the 2009 boating season in Northeast Tennessee.

Are lake levels higher this year (after last year’s historic drought)?

I meet with Rockingham Marina owner Doug Sams at 11:00 a.m. to discuss his outlook—on water levels, recreational boating, and the 2009 season.

I hope to touch base with some lake enthusiasts along the way.

Look for my report, tonight on 11 Connects News at 6:00 p.m.

TriCities.com brings you a first-person perspective of the Inaguration of President Barack Obama through the eyes of 17-year-old Science Hill High School student, Jonathan Radford.

Radford left Johson City on Sunday to tour historic Williamsburg, Va. on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and then went on to view the Inauguration today. Keep looking here on TriCities.com as we update Radford’s experience live and online as he travels to Williamsburg, Washington

RadfordReports: Back in Williamsburg, had a wonderful and historic day, sorry no cell phone signals in DC, pics will be posted ASAP
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 11:13 PM

RadfordReports: radio waves were affected by the inaugural so upates were limited
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 1:47 PM

RadfordReports: its cold!!! brr! im in long security line
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 8:54 AM

RadfordReports: hey im in DC and about to make the walk to the capital and washington mall
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 7:40 AM

RadfordReports: good morning the bus is now in route to DC
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 4:05 AM

RadfordReports: about 70 miles outside of Williamsburg
Sunday, January 18, 2009 5:16 PM

RadfordReports: woke up early and im and ready to this coverage underway
Sunday, January 18, 2009 8:22 AM

Related Links: 
Full Coverage of the Inauguration

Jonathan Radford’s Inauguration Coverage for TriCites.com It’s a Packed House in Washington

Inauguration Forges Bonds of Fellowship

Gatheringfor Change

East Tenn. Democrats Savor Obama Victory

Inauguration Notes: View from the Mall

Many on Journey to Be a Part of History

Celebration Highlights Great Step Toward Dr. King’s Dream

Tri-Cities Residents Prepare for Trip to Inauguration ]]> 2009-01-20T08:54:02-05:00 http://tricitiesblogs.com/11connects/article/did_you_watch_the_state_of_the_union/40342/ Tell us what you think. Josh Tell us what you think.

Did you watch President Obama’s State of the Union speech?

What do you think about the President’s call for a new start, for a revived focus on fixing the economy and creating jobs, for the political backbone to finish the job on healthcare reform?

What about the “don’t ask / don’t tell” change proposed for the military?

Me?

I have to - I mean have to - go to bed by 9:30 a.m. if I’m going to make it to 11 Connects for a 5 a.m. newscast, so I only got to see the first half of the speech.  The rest I watched this morning, clips from our CBS news service.  Regardless of who’s making the speech, there’s something awe-inspiring about the spectacle of this American tradition that’s steeped in ritual.  Seeing the Supreme Court justices alongside the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the President’s Cabinet level leadership team never fails to send a cold chill up the back of my neck.  Watching the President stride through the door to the cheers of his political friends and foes reminds me of the centuries of men who’ve made that walk.  The machinations of a free people’s government at work is an awesome thing to witness.

Change the subject.

Far less “weighty” but still hard to miss - Nancy Pelosi’s pearl necklace.  Please tell me it isn’t real.  My wife was so impressed by the neck candy plastered just above the President’s left shoulder that I went in search of more information on-line.  Apparently, they’re real.  They’ve created a sensation in the jewelry world.  And one pear website estimated hers at costing $20,000.

Okay.

Share your thoughts on the S.O.T.U..

Around my house, WETS-FM is king.

In the mornings, my wife and kids run around and play with “Morning Classics” as the soundtrack.

Late afternoon while scrambling to make dinner, we usually tune in for the top of the hour news on “All Things Considered.“

Evenings, it’s “Exploring Music with Bill McGlaughlin.“  The expert simply sits at the piano and explains the stories behind the songs with themes that span the ages. 

I love that man.

Today, I gasped when I read the news release that WETS-FM would change to a news and information format on February 1st, and I’m sure I wasn’t alone.  No more classical music.  Americana music, specifically the music of this region, would continue only the weekends.  Most of the most popular PRI and NPR shows will stay.

Why the change?  Here’s the link with some answers:
http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/article/wets-fm_to_change_programming_to_news_and_information/40086/

I’m ashamed to admit that I listen to WETS-FM way more than I donate.  I’m one of those who always asumed the music would continue even if I didn’t donate very much.

I’m sure I and my family will continue to listen.  And I honestly plan to donate more money in the future.  Honestly.

Still, I’ll miss the music.  What about you?

In local TV news, there’s at least one “for sure” element: mention guns in a news story and you’re bound to get feedback.

This morning, our viewers and readers are sounding off about the big news of the day : a 17 year-old boy shot and killed in Greene County while allegedly trying to rob the home.  According to the Sheriff Steve Burns, the owner of the home shot and killed boy.  Three others, we’ve learned, escaped in a car.

Just before the running to the studio for the 5 a.m. newscast on 11 Connects, I posted a brief news story on this website.

Within a couple of hours, the debate was well underway.

Here’s the link:

http://www2.tricities.com/tri/news/local/article/teen_dead_after_attempted_home_break-in/39870/#comments

Today, 11 Connects will be looking into the laws.  What legal rights do you have as a homeowner?  When can you shoot to kill without fear of punishment?

Your thoughts?

By the looks of things Jason Hickman wanted to be a career soldier.  At age 35, after ten years in the military, he had risen to the rank of Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army, and had a chest filled with fruit salad, military slang for service ribbons.

You can tell a lot from what appears on a soldiers uniform.  SFC Hickman bore an Army Commendation Medal, with three Oak Leaf Clusters, meaning he had distinguished himself multiple times in the service of our country.  He also wore an Army Achievement Medal, which indicates exception achievement when not in a combat role.

SFC Hickman was a combat engineer, who also bore the parachute of an airborne qualified soldier.  He was attached to an Airborne Unit, the 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 25th Infantry Division when he deployed to Afghanistan a little under a year ago. 

It wasn’t his first taste of combat.  He had already done a tour in Iraq, for which the wore the acquamarine blue Presidential Unit Citation.  It indicates service with a unit that has “been set apart and above other units participating in the same campaign in their display of gallantry, determination, and spirit de corps under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions to accomplish the mission.”

In short, SFC Hickman had proven he was a hero. 

But there is a lot the uniform can’t tell you.  The Kingsport Tennessee soldier also had a family that loved him, a wife and three young sons.  His father, J.D. Hickman told us tonight that his son “.. loved his kids the way that I loved him.“

Without doubt, SFC Hickman’s father and family were all eagerly anticipating his return from Afghanistan, at this point probably in just a few weeks. Monday they got the news they never wanted to hear.  SFC Jason Hickman, who had heroically served as a soldier, had died just as heroically.

He was in a Combat Outpost, Bowri Tana, when a vehicle loaded with explosives rushed the position and exploded amid a hail of small arms fire.  His father J.D. knew the risks, he is a Vietnam Veteran himself.  He also knew the reasons his son took the risks, “…he loved his country, and he died doing what he believed he was supposed to do.  And I am damn proud of him.“

Perhaps that’s all any of us need to know about Jason Hickman, and those who serve as he did; they are there for us, for our way of life.  We too, should be proud of them.

Recently, I’ve been harassed (lovingly) a bit because of all the time off work I took in late 2009.  I used the time to enjoy my family, to visit more family and friends in Florida, and to pretend like I know something about home improvement.  On this last venture, I still have the battle scars to prove it.

Next week, I won’t be on the air.  But it’s not another out of town vacation.  Instead, I’ll be on assignment.

I wish - REALLY wish - I could tell you what we’re doing.  Unfortunately, it’s classified.  Literally.

Some elements of the assignment may still fall through; it’s that kind of thing.  Let’s hope not.

I can tell you that we’re finally getting to move forward on a project that’s been in the works for three years.  It’s a project I believe will be extremely informative for 11 Connects viewers who, no doubt, will hear all about it when we’re able to share more.

Thanks to Amy Lynn who’ll be on the desk for the morning and noon news in addition to her hosting duties on Daytime Tri-Cities.

See you again on TV on January 18th.

I wanted to talk a little bit about the flu.  Yes, flu season is still going, and there is still time to get your flu shot.

I was looking on WebMD (a site I check on a regular basis) and saw a list of myths about the flu.  I will run down the list here, and provide the link to the WebMD story so you can check out a detailed explanation of each.

Flu Myths:
1. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against swine flu (H1N1).
2. Seasonal flu is annoying but harmless.
3. H1N1 is transmitted by pork products.
4. The flu vaccine can give you the flu.
5. There is no treatment for the flu.
6. Antibiotics can fight the flu.
7. The flu is only dangerous for the elderly.
8. “Stomach flu” is a form of influenza. How many times have we heard, “ooohhh…I have the stomach flu!“
9. If you get the flu, you can’t get it again during that flu season.
10. If you’re young and healthy, you don’t have to worry about getting a vaccine.
11. You can skip years between flu vaccinations.
12. Vaccines are dangerous.
13. Cold weather causes flu.
14. If you haven’t gotten the seasonal flu vaccine by November, there’s no point in getting vaccinated.

Please go to WebMD for a detailed explanation of all of these flu myths.

A viewer recently told me on Facebook that she really loves her kids, but if they’re stuck at home because of snow ONE MORE DAY… well…. it might get ugly.

Today is another day of ringing phones at the 11 Connects newsroom.  Some calls are coming from schools asking us to alert our viewers and readers of early dismissals.  Other calls are coming from parents and family asking for updates and clarification about school schedule changes.

So far, no calls today about “Young and the Restless” (see yesterday’s blog).

It’s been a dreadful week to be a school administroator,  Cancel, delay, dismiss early - how does one decide?

Kingsport’s director of schools caught such flack about his decision to be on regular schedule Tuesday that he posted an open letter to parents on the school’s website.  Early that morning, roads were fine in Kingsport.  But as the morning progresses, the snow kept falling, and traveler became increasingly treacherous.

“While recognizing that some streets were snow covered, cancelling or delaying school at this point would have created a new set of safety issues for many more students whose parents had left home (for work, etc.) or students already waiting at the bus stop,“ Dr. Richard Kitzmiller wrote.  Here’s the link to the website.:  http://kingsport.schoolfusion.us/

This morning, we heard from Johnson City school leaders who decided to dismiss early.  That triggered a floodgate of early closures today from administrators across the region.  All this as the Storm Team predicts only a light dusting of snow this afternoon for most of the region.

Overreacting?  Better safe than sorry?

We welcome your comments here on 11Connects.com.

When the phone rings at 11 Connects and a viewer has a question, we always try to give an answer.

Okay, if the question is about who’s dating who whom on “Young and the Restless” because you missed yesterday’s show (we get those), the answer likely will not be quickly forthcoming.  It’s not that we don’t care, but there’s a calling coming in on the other line….

“Good morning, 11 Connects.  Yes.“

(brief pause)

“We’re looking into it.“

(another brief pause)

“We’re trying to find out, sir, and we’ll let you know when we do.“

This summarizes what I just heard a co-worker say after getting yet another in a slew of viewer complaints about the inexplicably rising price of gas.  He was telling the truth.  We are trying to get to the bottom of the latest surge in the prices at the pump.

But here’s me being honest.  The fact is that we don’t know, that we probably won’t ever really know, and that even the people (the “experts”) who are supposed to know don’t agree.  We didn’t know last year when people panicked about price and drained some local gas pumps, and we still don’t really know today.

According to an article today on the charlotteobserver.com website, the reason for the climbing price for gasoline - as usual - depends on who you ask.  Some say it’s because the economy is still in the tank.  Others say it’s because the economy is on the mend.  Still others blame the cold spell. 

Read the article for yourself here:  http://www.charlotteobserver.com/breaking/story/1163365.html

Some local stations are now selling regular gas in the $2.70 range.  Just a few weeks ago, most were no higher than $2.40.

Even more confusing for our viewers - why gas is one average price in one town and as much as $.20 higher or lower just 30 minutes away. 

We’ve asked, but no one locally seems to have a good and solid answer. 

So today I’m using this blog to appeal for an explanation.  Price can often be based on speculation and perception about present and future realities.  But can’t anyone offer a concrete reason why prices are up and down, most recently up here in the Tri-Cities?

If you do have an answer, you’ve been warned: a big hug from yours truly is coming your way.

Do you have a job?

If you do, do you hate it?

An Associate Press report says most of us do.  Apparently, a research group’s recent survey found job satisfaction levels at their lowest since the study began 22 years ago.

“The Conference Board says only 45 % of Americans say
they’re satisfied with their work,” according to the AP report.  “That’s down from 49 % in 2008, and 61 % in 1987.”

Why?

Back to the AP report.

“Economists warn that lower job satisfaction could stifle innovation, thus hurting competitiveness and productivity.”

Grumpy… and unproductive.

TV news anchors are paid to, among other things, remain pleasant while being informative.  Surely you know that, some days, pleasant isn’t how we REALLY feel.  You, no doubt, can sympathize.  Who doesn’t have to grin and bear it from time to time?  That’s life, right? 

Honestly, I do love my job.  Really - I do.

A few years ago, I went shopping on Christmas Eve.  It was, simply put, retail insanity.  Long lines, grumpy shoppers, and messy shelves made me want to go home.  I could, but the lady at the checkout couldn’t. 

As I fumbled for my credit card, I heard the broken voice.  “Will that be credit or debit?”  I looked up to see a young woman in a Santa hat.  She was trying to smile as a tear tumbled down her cheek.

“Are you okay?” I asked.

“Yes,” she almost sobbed, still smiling though.  “I wish I could be home with my kids today.  They’re making cookies.  That’s all.”

“Since it’s Christmas Eve?” I asked stupidly, not knowing what else to say.

“Yea,” she said.  “But I really need the job.  Believe it or not, I’m really thankful for this job.”

No doubt, that lady would be among those wishing for her ship to come in.  She’d probably – if asked – join the majority in saying she’s not too thrilled with the job.

Still, I got the real impression it wasn’t about her – “it” being life, the stuff of dreams, the reason she got out of bed that morning.  “It”, for her, seemed to be at home waiting for Mom to walk in the door.

Have you ever watched TV sitcoms and noticed a lot of really cute and funny people who seemed to have the greatest lives and live in the greatest apartments but don’t seemed to go to work?  In comparison, I guess the daily grind can seem even more of a cosmic punishment.

Congratulations to the proud and the few who can truly say they love – and always love – their jobs. 

But hats off, deep bows, big “thank God for you” hugs and rounds of “you’re my hero” applause to that even rarer of souls -  the saints who hit the ground running because they have mouths to feed.  The Mom’s and Dad’s who gave up looking for personal “fulfillment” in the work place years ago.  The laborers who keep America running. 

The sweethearts in the Santa hats who smile through the tears.

I’ll admit it.

As 2009 gasped its final breath, I was snoring in my cozy, warm bed.  With the allure of staying up past midnight long gone, my wife and I tucked the kids in beds and dropped on the pillow like the Time Square ball.  Lights out around 10 p.m, for us, just plain worn out by the holidays.

While I slept, I’m sure most others were awake and celebrating, thrilled to welcome a new year, a new beginning.  Way before the actual start of 2010, a lot of people - friends and co-workers - said they were ready for last year to go away.  Be gone.  Leave, already.

2009 was rough.  For the thousands who lost their jobs and the bosses who had to deliver the bad news, it was a year filled with pain and tears and trauma.  It was the year when bad went to worse economically, when the news from Wall Street really hit home here in the Tri-Cities.

It was the year I got something called the “swine flu” for pete’s sake.

A friend who works for a well-known local business - I won’t say which one - said it best.  “I’m ready to no longer be in crisis mode,“ she told me.  “I just need… we all just need… a fresh start.“

Who knows?  2010 could be worse.  The lay-off’s and furloughs and downsizing could continue, maybe even more painfully than in the previous year. 

For my friend, there was something refreshing about the change of the year, as if the breeze off the turning calendar page would be enough to blow away the stench of a year’s worth of tough breaks.

How about you?  Excited about dawning of 2010?

I could hear the pops and booms in the distance, the sound of my neighbors loosing electricity.

As the snow fell Friday night, my wife made cookies and my kids ran squealing from window to window delighted by the falling snow.  All were snug and festively content in the Smith home.

Except for me.

While they were enjoying being trapped inside during the blast of winter weather, I was frantically searching for batteries for the three flashlights I could find.  All three were out of juice, left on - I suspect - by the little friends who were squealing and peering out the window.

Why hadn’t I gone ahead and gotten those gas logs?  With a heat pump and an electric water heater, a power outage meant we’d have no heat - no water.

I found the kerosene heater, but the kerosene can was empty.  And how do you use that thing anyway?  Why does it make me nervous, just sitting there waiting to be fueled up and lit?

By the time the snow had coated my street, my wife had finished the cookies, my kids were sampling the first batch, and I was sitting with my head in my hands stunned by this sobering fact:  I was not prepared for the unfolding winter storm.

I feel almost guilty in sharing that we never lost power at my house.  Tens of thousands of our neighbors did.  Many, no doubt, realized in a painful way that they weren’t ready either.

Two generations ago, my farmer - grandfather in Johnson County, Tennessee was just fine when the snowstorms came.  He always had food (he grew it and raised it) and he always had fuel (he cut it and stacked it).  Not that many years later, his grandson would be in a world of hurt if the stores shut down for more than a few days.  Kind of pitiful, isn’t it?

So how’s this for an early New Year’s resolution: I’ll never be “not ready” again. 
Nothing “survivalist” or “off the grid” as of yet for me - though I think we all have a new-found respect for those who feel called to live that way.  But I will have batteries for flashlights, some matches and candles, a supply of bottled water, and a back-up heat source that I actually know how to safely use.

Next time the storm rolls in, I plan to be peacefully prepared, enjoying my wife’s cookies right alongside my kids.

I could hear the pops and booms in the distance, the sound of my neighbors loosing electricity.

As the snow fell Friday night, my wife made cookies and my kids ran squealing from window to window delighted by the falling snow.  All were snug and festively content in the Smith home.

Except for me.

While they were enjoying being trapped inside during the blast of winter weather, I was frantically searching for batteries for the three flashlights I could find.  All three were out of juice, left on - I suspect - by the little friends who were squealing and peering out the window.

Why hadn’t I gone ahead and gotten those gas logs?  With a heat pump and an electric water heater, a power outage meant we’d have no heat - no water.

I found the kerosene heater, but the kerosene can was empty.  And how do you use that thing anyway?  Why does it make me nervous, just sitting there waiting to be fueled up and lit?

By the time the snow had coated my street, my wife had finished the cookies, my kids were sampling the first batch, and I was sitting with my head in my hands stunned by this sobering fact:  I was not prepared for the unfolding winter storm.

I feel almost guilty in sharing that we never lost power at my house.  Tens of thousands of our neighbors did.  Many, no doubt, realized in a painful way that they weren’t ready either.

Two generations ago, my farmer - grandfather in Johnson County, Tennessee was just fine when the snowstorms came.  He always had food (he grew it and raised it) and he always had fuel (he cut it and stacked it).  Not that many years later, his grandson would be in a world of hurt if the stores shut down for more than a few days.  Kind of pitiful, isn’t it?

So how’s this for an early New Year’s resolution: I’ll never be “not ready” again. 
Nothing “survivalist” or “off the grid” as of yet for me - though I think we all have a new-found respect for those who feel called to live that way.  But I will have batteries for flashlights, some matches and candles, a supply of bottled water, and a back-up heat source that I actually know how to safely use.

Next time the storm rolls in, I plan to be peacefully prepared, enjoying my wife’s cookies right alongside my kids.

I have to admit - hearing all the “negative” comments today by Norwegians about President Obama surpised me.  They weren’t burning him in efigy or throwing shoes at him.  Nothing that nasty.

Most questioned how a man who just pledged to send 30 thousand more troops to fight the war in Afghanistan could be hailed as a a peacemaker.  They, it seems, don’t subscribed to the school of thought that you sometimes have to fight for peace.

Surprised?  Yes, because just a year ago everyone except American conservatives seemed to love the Senator from Illinois.  Maybe our global neighbors still do love our President, but many I’m seeing on TV seem to be scratching their heads over the whole Nobel prize thing.

Prize deciders think he deserves it not so much for what he has done but for what he WILL do as leader of the free world.  They’ve been defending their decision since the moment a room full of reporters gasped when they read his name in announcing the winner.  Others, like Dr. King and Mother Theresa, won the same prize for what they had done, for accomplishments that couldn’t be questioned because they were part of the global historic record.

What do you think?  Does President Obama deserve the Nobel Peace Prize?  Has the announcement made you a proud America?  Could he… should he have respectfully declined?

By the time he walked onto the stage before the West Point cadets, we already knew what he was going to say.  President Obama will send 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan, but he’ll only commit them for a limited time before the Afghan military has to step up and take charge.

The White House said the President labored over the decision, not so subtly contrasting the new President with the previous President many critics claim was a “quick draw cowboy” from Texas.

Yesterday, I heard an Obama critic claim that was rubbish, that the President knew all along that what he would do and that the “mainstream media” played along with the carefully constructed p.r. image of a President deep in thought.

The day after the speech, America’s top General in Afghanistan said he fully supports the President’s plan.  But what else could he publicly say about the decision of his Commander-in-Chief?

I read today that Sen. John McCain has a beef with President Obama’s firm withdrawal date.  You don’t tell the enemy when you’re going home, McCain blasted back.

Sour grapes after a lost election?

What did you think about the President’s speech and his plan for Afghanistan?

December 2009 Christmas Parade Calendar
(Thanks to Appalachian GhostWalks.  Find them at http://www.GhostsofChristmasPast.com or http://www.AppalachianGhostWalks.com

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia Christmas Parade - 7 PM

Friday, December 4th, 2009
Johnson City, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 6:30 PM

Saturday, December 5th, 2009
Sevierville/Dollywood, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 11 AM
Abingdon, Virginia Christmas Parade - 11 AM
Elizabethton, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 6 PM
Gate City, Virginia Christmas Parade - 6 PM

Sunday, December 6th, 2009

Church Hill, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 11 AM
Greeneville, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 2 PM
Rogersville, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 3 PM

Monday, December 7th, 2009
Bulls Gap, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 2 PM

Saturday, December 12th, 2009
Blountville, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 2 PM
Mount Carmel, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 3 PM
Jonesborough, Tennessee Christmas Parade, TN’s Oldest Town - 6 PM

Sunday, December 13th, 2009

Surgoinsville, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 11 AM

Saturday, December 19th, 2009
Dandridge, Tennessee Christmas Parade - 2 PM

Sunday, December 20th, 2009

Nicholsville, Virginia Christmas Parade

Tonight, our President will unveil his plans for the war in Afghanistan.

News organizations already are reporting specifics: a 30,000 troop surge, a timeframe to turn over the war to the Afghan forces.

For many local families, this isn’t just another news conference messing up primetime programming.  This is personal.  National guard units and enlisted personal from this region are getting ready to go.  Some already have gone.  So when the President speaks, the implications will be real and local.

“This is not an open-ended commitment,“ said the President’s spokesman yesterday.  A warning for Afghanistan, I suppose.

The Obama plan includes troop numbers that fall short of what his General on the ground asked for.  What does that say about the President’s trust in his lead man on the ground?

Also, the CBS news report this morning said America’s support for the war is eroding.  They cite polls.  Honestly, this confuses me.  No war is popular, and I remember REALLY unpopular wars.  Is this one of them?

Share your thoughts.  Do you plan to watch?

I get lots of e-mail, frankly more than I will ever have time to read, so when something comes in that seems like a waste of time I usually just hit delete.  That’s almost what I did today when mail arrived from PETA, but my curiosity got the better of me.

Amanda Schinke from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals wanted to remind me not to talk about having a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving, or to refer to being more “stuffed than the bird.”

Why? Well Amanda, we must be old friends because she addressed my by my first name, believes it leaves out all the vegetarians who chose not to eat turkey. At first I passed it off as another public relations e-mail trying to get the name of the organization paying her bills into a newscast.  I even made light of it on Facebook.

Then I opened the message, and the more I thought about it, the angrier I became. 

“Perhaps this Thanksgiving, you could do for vegetarians what the phrase “Happy holidays” (sic) has done for people who do not celebrate Christmas—simply take care to be more inclusive during your broadcast,” my old buddy Mandy suggested.

Another attempt to censor what people may say on the ruse that someone else may be offended.  That’s something I find offensive.

I have no objection to someone skipping the meat for reasons of conscience, or waistline or their arteries.  May they live long and prosper.  I also have no desire for anyone to feel excluded, or feel offended, although I’m a little perplexed why you feel excluded because I talk about my dinner. 

I do have a big objection to another attempt to dampen speech, especially in the media.  George Orwell predicted this cleansing of the language in his novel “1984”.  What he called “Newspeak”, was a language cleansed of references to individual liberty.

His oppressor was a totalitarian government, but is it any less dangerous when the watchdog of government endorses political correctness?  Once that watchdogs voice falls silent, government has a free hand to codify political correctness, and criminalize the incorrect. 

Orwell was a journalist.  He understood full well that removing words as offensive leaves a freedom loving people less than free.

So enjoy tofurky on Thanksgiving if you can, but if you feel left out when I talk about my turkey dinner,  remember you are free to choose whatever meal you want, and I to talk about mine.  I wouldn’t want it any other way.     

On Friday, Oprah turned in her 22 month notice.

She’ll end her show in September 2010, and then - who knows?

Some have let me know on Facebook - who cares?

Check out my page to see how your neighbors are reacting to the news.

http://www.facebook.com/find-friends/?ref=sb#/pages/Josh-Smith/92017555725

Here - I’d love to get your best guess for what’s next for O.  Just another talk show… or maybe a run for President of the World?  That’s what Steve, our morning news camera guy, thinks.  Of course, he also thinks the world will end in 2012.

Thanks for sharing.

The study concludes:

-The USPSTF recommends against routine screening mammograms in women age 40-49 years. 
-The group recommends biennial screening mammography for women age 50-74 years.
-Women over 75 years of age may not benefit from regular mammograms.
-The group recommends against teaching Breast Self Exams (SBE).
-Questions the benefits of a Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) in women 40 years of age and older.
-Questions the benefits of digital mammography and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) versus film mammography.

I took the results of the study to a radiologist as well as a good friend of mine who is a breast cancer survivor to get their take on the study.

Jocelyn Medina, M.D., a radiologist at Mountain States Health Alliance says with the study’s recommendations, many lives in the Tri-Cities would be at risk.  From this year alone, cancer cases at the Women’s Health and Imaging Center prove her point.

“I can tell you we had 92 cancers diagnosed.  20 of those were between age 37 and 50.  That to me is not an insignificant number,” she said.

The study also doesn’t recommend self-breast examinations as a method of early detection.

Kathi Baty of Johnson City is a 7 year cancer survivor.  She defies both of those recommendations.
“I was 49 years old, the group that they’re talking about that doesn’t need mammograms and I found it on a breast self exam, but was followed up with mammography and all of the wonderful equipment that’s out there to help detect and save your life,” she said.  “And I’m so very thankful for that.”

Medina adds this study sends the wrong message to women, especially in an underserved area like Appalachia.

“You already have people that are sort of suspicious about going to doctors or going and getting care even when they need it, and they secretly know they need it,” she said.  “This doesn’t help that kind of phenomenon at all.”

And groups like Susan G. Komen for the cure see this study as a huge step backward in the fight against breast cancer.  In a written statement, they say:

“While there is no question that mammograms save lives for women over 50 and women 40-49, there is enough uncertainty about the age at which mammography should begin and the frequency of screening that we would not want to see a change in policy for screening mammography at this time.“

A policy Baty says where the benefits far outweigh the risks.

“When you’ve been through what I have as a breast cancer survivor, all the treatments and risks I took to get mammograms to find that and have it removed and be sitting here seven years later talking to you today, very much worth it,” she said.

“The truth is, many women don’t have breast cancer when they’re between 40 and 50,” Medina adds.  “Most women do not.  But we’re afraid we may miss one.  And in my book, if we can find one person and save them from dying from breast cancer, it’s worth it. It’s definitely worth it.”

Media says the American College of Radiology as well as the American Cancer Society do not agree with the USPSTF recommendations, and no changes will be made any time soon.

You can view the full study, as well as the statement from Susan G. Komen for the Cure at keyword “breast cancer.“

Age 40 or age 50?  Different groups are debating the age at which women should start getting their mammograms. 

Here’s the report from the Associated Press.  Read it over, and let us know if you have questions.  11 Connects is working on a report for our news tonight at 5 and 6.  Comment below, or send your questions to newstips@11Connects.Com

NEW YORK (AP) - Women in their 40s are reacting with confusion
and skepticism over the recommendations of a government task force
concerning mammograms.

The task force says most women don’t need mammograms in their
40s and should get one every two years starting at 50. That’s a
stunning reversal and a break with the American Cancer Society’s
long-standing position. What’s more, the panel said breast
self-exams do no good, and women shouldn’t be taught to do them.

Breast cancer survivors who were diagnosed at a young age are
among the more vocal critics of the new guidelines.

For its part, the American Cancer Society has been recommending
annual mammograms beginning at 40, and it’s staying with that
position.

Most women in their 40s interviewed by The Associated Press said
they plan to follow the old mammography recommendations, at least
for now.

I never get to watch “O” anymore.

What?  Laughing at me because I ever did?

Yes, I used to catch the Queen of Talk on occasions, back in the day before kids when 4 p.m. was free time. 

Never a devotee, I still couldn’t help but marvel at Oprah’s expertise, the craftsmanship of the shows, the ability to make the mundane (a show about cool gifts) into a TV and retail world event.  I’d see a promo commercial play during the morning news, and I would be hooked.  Usually, I’d watch the happy shows.  The ones in which “O” talked about crime victims or diseases always made me sad.  I try to avoid sad.

Oprah endorsed her Senator from Illinois for President, and some say that played a key role in Obama’s victory.  Today we get to see her interview with the woman Obama/Biden defeated last November.  Sarah Palin is “Going Rogue” with a new book and a frank discussion about tensions inside her campaign with John McCain and inside the Republican party.

Plan to watch?  Plan to read her book?

Join the discussion at : http://www.facebook.com/find-friends/?ref=sb#/pages/Josh-Smith/92017555725

One caller summed up her opinion in one word.  “Stupid!“

News that three University of Tennessee Football players had been arrested for attempted armed robbery has sparked a lot of reaction from 11 Connects viewers.  Many are angry.  Some were shocked.

Me… shocked?  Not so much.  They’re football stars, but they’re still kids.  And kids mess up.

As a graduate of the school and a UT fan, I do join the ranks of the frustrated.  After a rough start to the season, the team seemed to be building momentum.  Young talent seemed to hint at brighter seasons so come. 

Now some of the Vols’ youngest talent is in big trouble, and as Kenny Hawkins, our sports director, put in on 11 Connects at Noon today - this isn’t like they cheated on a test or stole a pair of sneakers.  They’re accused of attempted armed robbery, a very serious charge.  Kenny thinks the biggest impact will be the emotional toll this will take on the team.  He also thinks this will make the job of recruiting more difficult for Kiffin and others at UT in the months to come.

Keep you comments coming.  We welcome them here on 11Connects.Com.

    My inglorious military career began in 1975 after graduation from college.  I had a deferment, and low draft number, so I could have skipped military duty, but a family history of military service influenced my decision to volunteer. 
    I served in four commands during my four years, including the 4th Infantry Division, 4th Psychological Operations Unit, The Army Transportation Terminal Unit at Lajes, Azores, and the crest I pulled out today, US Forces Command or FORSCOM.
    My little ritual each year gives me a moment to reflect not so much on what I did, but about those whose paths I crossed in those years.  In my experience they were who Shakespeare described in Henry V as “we happy few, we band of brothers.”
    He was writing about an English King, who in the face of overwhelming odds devised a plan, to defeat the French at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.  Whether Henry ever uttered the now famous expression, or it was simply a clever literary turn of phrase is lost in the mists of the French countryside.
    What endures is a military attitude that Henry introduced.  In the military we are all in this together. He devised a strategy whose aim was to protect the lives of all of his forces, from the Field Commander to the foot soldier.  He entered the fray with them, and fought alongside.  Unheard of in an age where those who planned the battles watched soldiers plucked from farms die executing it.
    The French lost more than 10,000 troops at Agincourt, the British just 200.
    FORSCOM was composed dedicated men and women who for the most part did not drive the tanks, fly the helicopters or carry the M-16’s into battle.  We trained those troops, pushed paper, took care of their billets and made certain they had the fuel, food and ammunition to engage the enemy.
    Of course plenty of those in the command structure still picked up weapons to fight their way through hostile situations make sure the mission was completed.  Some gave their lives in that effort.
    It’s proper to pay special deference to the combat troops today, they risk the most, they sacrifice the most.  But all veterans separate themselves from friends and family, toil for low pay and little thanks in often inhospitable if not hostile environments.
    So to everyone who ever put on a uniform to honorably do their part to serve our country I simply want to say a hearty “job well done” to my band of brothers (and sisters).  Happy Veterans Day.     

On my way to work hours before the crack of dawn this morning, I found myself thinking of my grandfather.

After coming home from World War 2, he got a job driving a bread truck.  Like me, his alarm went off while the rest of the family slept.

Compared to what he endured while serving as a United States Marine, I imagine the early hours in a truck filled with the smells of fresh bread must have been a treat.  He didn’t talk much about the War.  Later, I found out why.  What he endured and saw were things he wanted to forget.

Lewis Paul Smith died several years ago, too soon to meet my kids.  So today after work, I plan to pull out his picture and tell my boys about their grandfather, the Marine. 

A friend recently shared his fears that, by the time my children grow up, patriotism will be in a sad state.  He’s noticed that fewer people fly their flags, that fewer Americans feel proud about their country, and that kids aren’t being taught to view as supremely precious the freedoms we all so casually enjoy.

What do you think?  Are we witnessing the death of American patriotism?

Slow down, everybody.

Bluff City, Tennessee is known as a town where speeders aren’t welcome.  For years, police in the town have developed a reputation for nailing lead-foots on U.S. Highway 19-E.  Don’t believe me?  Go for a high-speed joy ride, and you’ll likely see blue lights in your rear-view mirror.

But BCPD officers can only do so much with two main roads intersecting inside town limits.  Highways 11 E and 19 E collide in a T intersection where lots of wrecks have happened over the years.  A new traffic signal recently appeared to help, and now even more help is on the way.

Just where the new speed cameras will be is for them to know and you to find out.  And you will find out when a ticket arrives in the mail from the good people at Bluff City’s town hall. 

The company that sells the cameras brags that they are working in other parts of the country with as much as a 60% drop in accidents. 

Have you ever gotten a speed camera ticket?  A good idea, or government going too far?

I don’t pretend to be an economist, but something doesn’t make sense to me.

We’ve been told the recession is coming to end.  Maybe, it’s already over. 

Our Treasure Secretary has said that the recovery will be weak, and the President has warned of bumps in the road to better economic times.

Still, I couldn’t help but wince when the news flashed across my AP news alert desktop program:

WASHINGTON (AP) - The unemployment rate has surpassed 10 percent for the first time since 1983 - and is likely to go higher.
Nearly 16 million people can’t find jobs even though the worst recession since the Great Depression has apparently ended.
Many economists worry that persistently high unemployment could undermine the recovery by restraining consumer spending, which
accounts for 70 percent of the economy.

Huh?

I mean, I’m glad “the worst recession since the Great Depression has apparently ended.“  But really - has it?

Again - I’m no economist.

“So why are you writing about the economy, Josh?“ you’re asking.

Just this morning, I talked to a friend of mine who’s looking for work. 

“Found anything?“ I asked.

“Not yet.  Nothing to find,“ he lamented.

I followed up.  “Are you holding out for the RIGHT gig, that perfect job?“ 

“Heck, I’m willing to take anything.  There’s just nothing to take.“

I hear of some glimmers of good news here and there, on the car lots and in the world of Tri-Cities real estate I’m told.

What do you think?  Seeing signs of a recovery?