Today's News

City and county officials gathered with Kingston residents Saturday to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Gertrude Porter Park.

Kingston Mayor Tim Neal opened the ceremony thanking everyone that participated in the almost four year project that began under the administration of previous mayor Troy Beets.

“We’re really glad the park is open and that so many people were able to show up for the dedication,” said Kingston Parks and Recreation Director Rick Ross.

A vacant seat remains in Roane County Commission District 4.

A move to appoint someone to the seat didn’t garner enough votes at Monday’s Commission meeting.

“I don’t know,” Commission Chairman Ron Berry said, when asked what the plan is for the seat moving forward.

The vacancy was created by the death of Steve Kelley. He represented the district from Sept. 1, 2010, until his death on Feb. 21.

After a big push to get it covered, Rockwood’s pool may not be getting year-round use after all — at least not any time soon.

Rockwood Mayor Mike “Brillo” Miller is suggesting the city return a Local Parks and Recreation Fund grant that would have tackled a number of projects, including putting a cover over the pool.

“I do want you to know it is not a dead issue,” he insisted.

Repair needs are hampering the project, officials said.

By Mark Banker

Several recent letters to the editor have expressed reservations about proposed plans for Roane County’s public schools.

Last Friday, one lengthy letter introduced readers to philosopher-educator John Dewey and connected Dewey’s influence to today’s ongoing educational debates.