By Mike O’NealStaff WriterPolice estimate between 300 and 400 young men dressed in blue and red were involved in a series of fist fights near the Coolidge Park fountains Saturday night.“It was possible gang activity,” said Officer

By Darren EppsStaff WriterFormer University of Tennessee and Red Bank High School running back Gerald Riggs Jr., who was not picked in the NFL Draft this weekend, will head to Miami Dolphins camp as an undrafted free agent.The Dolphins did not

By Mike O’NealStaff WriterBrian Rutherford, whom Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp described as “a person of interest” in the ongoing investigation of the death of an 18-month-old girl, was arrested on unrelated federal charges

Filed Mallory Carra With players from the Czech Republic to Zimbabwe, high school tennis is international. Exchange students are a large part of the tennis scene. Just to name a few: Dade County’s No. 1 singles player Maria Otero-Perez is

By Michael DavisStaff WriterVoters in Tuesday’s primary election will be able to select candidates in 32 separate Hamilton County and Chattanooga races. But candidates in many races face no opponent and will win outright.Of the 29 county

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterGeorgia’s statewide races took their initial shapes last week as more than three dozen statewide office-seekers put their names on the July 18 primary ballot.As expected, two crowded fields emerged in the open

By Dick CookStaff Writer Six candidates are on the ballot in Tuesday’s Democratic primary for Grundy County sheriff.Election officials said no Republican qualified for the primary, so the Democratic winner will become the next sheriff. Last

JimScalesEdBoard.mp3

By Mike O’NealStaff WriterLocal attorney Jeff Hollingsworth is campaigning to become a Hamilton County Circuit Court judge. He is seeking the post that will be vacated by the retirement of Judge Sam Payne.“I have been trying cases for

By Ian Berry Staff WriterPeople who mow lawns and landscape for a living say the rising cost of gas is forcing them to make some tough choices.High gas prices mean they have to spend more to get from job-to-job and to fill up their

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterWithout a single ballot cast in the 2006 elections, Georgia already has nearly two-thirds of its General Assembly seats practically decided.Friday marked the last day to qualify for all but a few legislative

By Michael DavisStaff WriterAlmost 1,000 people voted early on Thursday, carrying Hamilton County voting totals to 5,425, according to the county Election Commission.Election Administrator Bud Knowles said early voting turnout was low — there

By Ashley Rowland Staff Writer Tennessee officials say cash-strapped hurricane evacuees could become homeless once again at the end of May when the Federal Emergency Management Agency cuts off all utility payments for evacuees and modifies its

By Angie HerringtonStaff WriterReducing crime and improving neighborhoods are among the issues for the four candidates in the Chattanooga City Council District 9 race.The seat was vacated in January when Councilman Yusuf Hakeem resigned to accept

By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterExpanding beyond such basics as reading, writing and arithmetic, Ganns-Middle Valley Elementary School in Hixson today concentrated on the creative arts.The 13th annual “Art Explosion” has converted the

By Brian LazenbyStaff WriterHamilton County Assistant District Attorney Gerald Webb said he learned how important municipal court is to Chattanooga residents while working for former City Court Judge Walter Williams.“City Court gives you the

By Tom GriscomPublisher and Executive EditorSeveral weeks ago newspapers across America focused attention and pages on Sunshine Week, a seven-day emphasis on open access to an open government.The sun shines somewhere 365 days a year, so perhaps the

By Brian LazenbyStaff WriterHamilton County Assistant District Attorney Gerald Webb said he learned how important municipal court is to Chattanooga residents while working for former City Court Judge Walter Williams.“City Court gives you the

Police are seeking help in locating a woman who has been missing since April 4. Glenda Cochren, 62, was last seen on West 20th Street at 1 a.m. April 4 walking toward Market Street, her son Robert Kanady said. Police said she was last seen at 1900

RealtyCenter, the region's largest locally owned real estate chain, has changed its affiliation to Prudential from GMAC.The company, now known as Prudential RealtyCenter, has more than 400 agents and staff in 11 offices in Tennessee and North

By Mike O’NealStaff WriterLocal attorney Jeff Hollingsworth has begun his campaign to become a Hamilton County Circuit Court judge. He is seeking the post that will be vacated by the retirement of Judge Sam Payne.“I have been trying

Scales promotes solid local education programBy Beverly A. CarrollStaff WriterDr. Jim Scales addressed around 300 people at the downtown Rotary Club today in his first appearance since the Hamilton County Board of Education voted earlier this month

Filed By Jaime Lackey In recent years, Baylor-Notre Dame soccer matches have helped determined which teams from the Division II East Region would advance to the state tournament.When the teams met Tuesday night at Baylor, the only thing truly at

Filed By Kelley SmiddieChristian Hudgens will be headed to Cleveland State to continue her softball career next year. Lauren Hudgens would like to pursue basketball at the next level, and she has an eye on modeling in the future. In the meantime,

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterLocal races in Dade and Walker counties are taking shape as the qualifying period to seek public office ends at noon today.Barring new candidacies emerging today, both counties will have a contested primary race for

By Emily BerryStaff WriterErlanger hospital is in much better financial shape after the end of the third quarter of the fiscal year than at this time last year, CEO Jim Brexler told hospital trustees tonight.“We have just closed a very strong

By Yolanda PutmanStaff WriterMemorial Hospital officials met with East Chattanooga residents Wednesday to seek their support for a proposed helicopter landing pad, but several people had concerns about noise and safety.Hospital officials want a

By Mike O’NealStaff WriterRetired U.S. Sen. Nancy Kassebaum Baker said Thursday in Chattanooga that education is the key to leadership in our global society.“The importance of education is so vital today,” said Mrs. Baker, the

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff WriterDr. Jim Scales addressed around 300 people at the downtown Rotary Club today in his first appearance since the Hamilton County Board of Education voted earlier this month to offer him the superintendent’s

By Cliff HightowerStaff WriterRhea County Schools Superintendent Dallas Smith said today that schools would be shut down Friday and Monday because of rising fuel prices for transportation.“We’re saving on diesel,” Mr. Smith said.

By Edward Lee PittsStaff WriterWASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., today announced new legislation intended to address rising gasoline prices.The “Gas Price Relief and Rebate Act” includes a $100 gas tax

By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterBreanna Glenn says she has wanted to be a lawyer since she began talking.Spending “Take Your Daughter to Work Day” at the Hamilton County Courthouse provided her further insight into the legal profession.

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins As we continue our headlong hurtle into the 21st Century, Scenic City Sounds will now feature, wait for it, pictures! So check out Jason Hamill, of Tremont Beauty Salon, tearing up the keyboards and clapping along. And

Filed by Steve Barrett I was stuffing my cart with radishes, Brown Cows and Tender Vittles at Food Lion the other day when I ventured into the dish detergent region — which is absolutely huge for reasons finite man cannot grasp.Anyhow, armed

By Cliff HightowerStaff Writer CLEVELAND, Tenn. &#8212 Bradley County Elections Administrator David Ellis has been placed on indefinite medical leave just one week before county primary elections, officials said. County election commissioners

By Randall HigginsCleveland Bureau CLEVELAND, Tenn. &#8212 With their GOP primary showdown just days away, Bradley County Sheriff Dan Gilley is questioning the party loyalty of challenger Tim Gobble.“I am the only true Republican in this

By Ginny LaRoeStaff WriterBoth Democratic candidates for Hamilton County sheriff agree the next leader of the department should be more accessible to the community and should revamp personnel procedures.Hank DeArman, 60, and Billy Long, 54, each

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp said Wednesday he fired Andy Derryberry from his position as chief deputy in January 2004 for undermining the department’s integrity, while Mr. Derryberry said he

MAY 8, 2006 AGENDA I. Chairman - Opening Comments and Announcements II. Public Hearing and Action - Subdivision Plats III. Old Business 1. 2004-165 - Ray D. Slatton - 6052 Highway 153 - City of Chattanooga - From R-1 Residential Zone to C-2

Contributed PhotoToyota Material Handling U.S.A. Inc. recently presented the President’s Award, its highest dealership recognition, to Kenco Toyota-Lift of Chattanooga. Joining in the presentation are, from left, Sonny Toyoda, president of

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp said a battered and bruised 18-month-old girl died at a local hospital today. The child, who Sheriff Cupp did not identify, was pronounced brain dead Wednesday and taken off life

By Ronnie MooreStaff Writer RINGGOLD, Ga. — The only two elected posts in Catoosa County government up for election in the July 18 primaries are the District 2 and District 4 County Commission seats, but both Republican incumbents will face

Filed by Donnie Jenkins Seagate just announced a 750 GB hard drive for a $590 price point, amazing.. With digital video and audio getting more popular, this can only be good. EBay has begun a project called eBay Express, which offers items at a

MUSICcast: M. Trevor Higgins talks about “The Godfather,” “Yo Momma” and Lord Subliminal 4/28/06 MP3 Downloadhttp://www.timesfreepress.com/podcast/music/mp3/042806.mp3 SUBSCRIBE

By Yolanda PutmanStaff WriterAfter operating for less than a month, the city’s Office of Multicultural Affairs hosted its first program today in honor of National Fair Housing Month.Robert Bright, housing director with the Tennessee Human

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterSex offenders convicted in Georgia will get longer prison sentences and see increased restrictions and tracking of their movements under a long-promised law Gov. Sonny Perdue signed today.Leaders of the GOP-run

By Karina GonzalezStaff WriterPlaza Comunitaria, an adult literacy education program for Hispanic immigrants at Chattanooga State Technical Community College, will host a health fair Thursday.Services offered through the health fair include HIV

By Andy SherNashville BureauNASHVILLE — The House Education Committee today approved plans for a state education “summit” in a resolution brought by Rep. Tommie Brown, D-Chattanooga.Rep. Brown said House Joint Resolution 1026 is

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff Writer Several local elected officials today endorsed the efforts of a volunteer group working to get drivers education back into Hamilton County’s public schools.Officials from Chattanooga, East Ridge, and Hamilton

Filed by Nikole DuggerSo, the world’s worst nuclear disaster occurred 20 years ago today. The Independent spells it out pretty clearly. While, the BBC takes you to a grieving Ukraine.Happy Administrative Professionals’ Day! Before

By Michael DavisStaff WriterLegislation that would reduce the state food tax by half has the support to pass, but opponents are trying to keep the bill in committee, Brian Miller, executive director for Tennesseans for Fair Taxation, said today.Mr.

ROUND OF 6 Check tfponline.com each Wednesday to see how the Times Free Press staff “guess-perts” ranked Tuesday night’s “American Idol” performances. We’ll predict who we think will be in Wednesday

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins No one ever accused Richard Buckner of being a charmer. Case in point, an e-mail interview last week, which featured several rants that weren’t fit for print. What we could use:“People who use their journals

By Andy SherNashville BureauNASHVILLE — State Sen. David Fowler, R-Signal Mountain, said Tuesday he will head a newly formed conservative advocacy group that will lobby lawmakers and engage in grassroots efforts to promote pro-family

Staff ReportRINGGOLD, Ga. — Catoosa County businessman Ivan DeWayne Hill has declared his candidacy in the Republican primary for the District 4 seat on the County Commission.The seat is held by Commissioner Ron Gracy.Mr. Hill, 55, said in a

By Ginny LaRoeStaff WriterHamilton County Sheriff John Cupp and his challenger in the Republican primary differ about the management of the department they both hope to lead for the next four years.Andy Derryberry, a former special agent for the

SheriffJohn Cupp Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp on Wednesday provided a recorded conversation to the Times Free Press in which he is heard terminating Andy Derryberry, who served as his chief deputy. Mr. Derryberry maintains he resigned, but

NASHVILLE — City of Chattanooga lobbyist Duane Smith, now officially registered to lobby, was on the job Tuesday and today, patrolling legislative corridors and talking to lawmakers.“I’m up here,” Mr. Smith said.

By TONI LOCYAssociated Press WriterWASHINGTON — Lawyers for the Bush administration and a group of Georgia workers urged the Supreme Court today to allow a floor-covering manufacturer to be sued for racketeering for allegedly using recruiters

Thursday is the last day to vote early for next Tuesday’s primary elections in a voting cycle that has been marked by low turnout.Hamilton County Election Administrator Bud Knowles said he hopes more people will show up to cast ballots today

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE DIVISION 2 DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY Precincts reporting: Tom Steven 0 of ? (0%) Crutchfield Grant Write-In Total votes Percent of vote Airport 1 Airport 2 Airport

Contributed PhotoLela Brown was recently honored at a retirement celebration hosted for her by Dr. Keith Dressler, a local orthodontist for whom she had been a lab technician for 13 years. Ms. Brown, who is 77 years old, has worked for a

By Edward Lee PittsStaff writerBiofuel industry experts told U.S. senators today that the use of alternative fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel is rapidly increasing and could be a key to reducing both the nation’s dependency on foreign oil

Filed by Nikole Dugger The countdown to Talladega has reached three days, and no more preparation has taken place. I may hit up a few retail establishments before tonight’s airing of “Gilmore Girls,” and have no fear, I’ll

By Nikole DuggerStaff Writer Second graders at Wallace A. Smith Elementary celebrated the end of TCAPS testing with a trip to Fall Creek Falls today after taking top honors in a county-wide anti-littering contest. “Hamilton Shines”

By RANDALL HIGGINSStaff Writer CLEVELAND, Tenn. &#8212 The Naples, Fla.-based Sky Angel satellite direct TV network will move its operations and call center to Cleveland, company officials said today. Matt Kisber, state commissioner of Economic

Filed by Donnie Jenkins This week the NAB show is going on for broadcasters, showing off new software and hardware for video, audio and TV production. I have a business associate there now gathering info for me, so I’ll be reporting on that

By Ashley RowlandStaff WriterMCMINNVILLE, Tenn. &#8212 Gov. Phil Bredesen said today that the federal government has done a good job of helping Tennesseans affected by deadly tornadoes earlier this month.“I give FEMA (the Federal Emergency

Filed by Anne Braly I get a half-dozen press releases each day, on average, from companies touting their latest products. One that came with quite a bit of fanfare &#8212 confetti, cups, a drink cozy and more &#8212 was from Shoney’s

By Angie Herrington Staff WriterChattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield, in his first State of the City address, told the City Council this evening that his plan to help the homeless will “once again put us on the short list of progressive

Filed by Gentry Estes KNOXVILLE &#8212 Former Ole Miss head men’s basketball coach Rod Barnes has emerged as a lead candidate for the vacancy on Tennessee’s coaching staff, according to sources close to the program. A deal could be in

By Edward Lee Pitts Washington BureauWASHINGTON &#8212 President Bush today responded to the growing furor over gasoline prices by calling for an investigation into price gouging allegations and ordering the suspension of deposits into the

By Andy SherNashville BureauNASHVILLE &#8212 State Sen. David Fowler, R-Signal Mountain, who is not seeking re-election, said today he will head a newly formed conservative advocacy group that will lobby lawmakers and engage in grassroots efforts

By Ginny LaRoeStaff WriterChattanooga Police Department officials said today is the first day the city’s 311 call-takers began handling animal services calls. Police officials said this will help cut down on the 911 call volume, since most

By Nikole DuggerStaff Writer Technology has enabled Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley to team up to promote tourism in the Volunteer State. In the newest commercial from Tennessee’s Department of Tourist Development, the homegrown musicians

By Andy SherNashville BureauNASHVILLE &#8212 Hamilton and Knox County lawmakers today dropped legislation that would change the state’s Basic Education Program formula in exchange for Bredesen administration pledges to press changes with the

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Chattanooga Police Department officials said today is the first day the city’s 311 began handling animal services calls. Police officials said this will help cut down on the 911 call volume, since the majority of

By Michael DavisStaff Writer Jim Hall , former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, announced Monday that he has dropped out of the 11 th state Senate District race, leaving Democrats without a candidate for the open seat.

By Brian Lazenby Staff Writer Hamilton County Criminal Court Clerk Gwen Tidwell has announced her candidacy for re-election to the post she has held since 1994. Ms. Tidwell, a lifelong Chattanoogan, pointed to her fiscal responsibility to

By Matt Anderson Staff Writer DALTON, Ga. The political season is officially under way, and candidates seeking their party's nominations for the July 18 Democratic and Republican primaries began filing qualifying papers at the Whitfield County

By Emily BerryStaff Writer Erlanger hospital officials plan to meet with members of the board of Southside and Dodson Avenue Health Centers soon to discuss the future of the Southside clinic, located at the former Franklin Middle School. The

Staff reportThe Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga is one of three museums nationwide to be selected for the 2005 Universal Design for Learning Award for a program helping children with disabilities. The museum will receive a $15,000 grant

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE SHERIFF SHERIFF CITY JUDGE HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION HAMILTON

The following is a statement from Jim Hall, former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, about his decision to leave the 11th state Senate District race: After reviewing my ongoing commitments and responsibilities I have decided

By Brian LazenbyStaff WriterHamilton County Criminal Court Clerk Gwen Tidwell has announced her candidacy for re-election to the post she has held since 1994. Ms. Tidwell, a lifelong Chattanoogan, pointed to her fiscal responsibility to

Filed by Ward GossettAssistant Sports Editor It took this past weekend for the realization to sink in that Chattanooga baseball must be pretty good.“Baseball in Chattanooga has had a pretty good run the last couple of years. There is a lot of

Filed by Herman Wang BEIJING — I love reading local newspapers whenever I travel. Here in Beijing, the English-language China Daily is readily available at most newstands for about 12 cents a copy. It’s state-run, as are all the news

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterThough many Georgia public office-seekers and others long have talked about this year’s election season, nobody until at least 9 a.m. this morning officially has become a candidate.From today until noon Friday,

Filed by Donnie Jenkins Today in the column I answer some e-mails on musical subjects, and in the podcast I go into detail on using Midi and audio computer programs. I also include a song at the end of the podcast to demonstrate the end result.

Filed by Nikole Dugger Not unlike most colossaly bad decisions, it seemed like a good idea at one point. I’m all about chalking things up as life experiences, but in agreeing to caravan to Talladega this weekend, I may be in over my

Staff ReportsThe University of Tennessee’s Big Orange Caravan made its way through the Chattanooga area today, beginning with a golf outing in Cleveland. The day’s festivities were to conclude with a 6 p.m. banquet at the Chattanooga

In the contested county primaries, judicial primaries and Chattanooga City Council special election, The Times has made the following recommendations: For the County CommissionIn the District 1 Republican primary Laura Oakley In the District

TECHcast: Donnie Jenkins discusses using Midi and Audio Computer Sequencing Programs. 04/25/06 MP3 Downloadhttp://www.timesfreepress.com/podcast/tech/mp3/042506.mp3 SUBSCRIBE http://www.tfponline.com/podcast/tech/techcast.rss

By Cliff HightowerStaff WriterFour men competing to be Rhea County sheriff say they want to continue to fight drugs, help the county’s elderly population and work to stop repeat offenders.In the Democratic race, incumbent Mike Neal faces a

By Edward Lee PittsStaff WriterThe overriding emotion this weekend on the faces of the families during the honoring of the 278th Regimental Combat Team was one of relief. On the faces of the more than 2,000 soldiers, now Iraqi war veterans, wearing

There are more quality candidates and serious contests in more County Commission races this year than we’ve seen in several county elections. That’s a good thing. The commission badly needs some thoughtful new voices and ideas, and more

Three able men are running May 2 for nominations to be judge of Circuit Court, Division 2 — guaranteeing we will have a good judge when one is finally elected in the Aug. 3 general election. Jeff Hollingsworth is unopposed for the

With Republican and Democratic primary elections scheduled in Hamilton County May 2, it is really no surprise that many candidates are unopposed. That’s because they have performed so excellently in office that there are good reasons to

Political scientists no doubt can explain the reasons for the phenomenon, but it is increasingly obvious that incumbents have a significant advantage when it comes to seeking elected office. Judicial races in the May 2 balloting here are an

By Edward Lee PittsStaff Writer KNOXVILLE — In response to their commander’s order to uncase the colors, Command Sgt. Majs. James Pippin and James Kyle slowly unraveled a yellow battle flag here during a breezy Saturday afternoon

Photos By D. Patrick HardingSpc. 4 Charity Bare Bare.wav Chief Warrent Officer 5 Don Moss Moss.wavSpc. 4 Frankie Rush Rush.wavSgt. Lashanda Williams Williams.wavLt. Col. Ernest Wood, Chaplain Wood.wav

Sensible City Charter changesMonday, November 06, 2006, Free Press Editorials Marriage protection, elder tax reliefMonday, November 06, 2006, Free Press Editorials Good picks for state House, SenateMonday, November 06, 2006, Free Press

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterA 26-year-old Walker County Democrat said he hopes to earn his party’s nomination and oppose seven-term U.S. Rep. Nathan Deal, R-Ga., in the November general election.Paul Blackwell, an auto mechanic for

Two fine lawyers who have been good members of Attorney General Bill Cox’s staff are running May 2 in party primaries to face each other in the Aug. 3 general election, to succeed retiring Criminal Court Judge Doug Meyer. Barry Steelman

When four former, well-qualified members of the Sheriff’s Department’s are willing to challenge an incumbent sheriff who has held the job for 12 years, it reinforces a widely perceived sense of discontent with the way the department is

Until last year, the County Com mission had been ruled, and ruled badly, for most of the current four-year term by a clutch of myopic members termed "the gang of four." The four commissioners who had set the commission’s agenda —

We hope all Hamilton Countians appreciate how fortunate we are to have Claude Ramsey as Hamilton County mayor — and that he is running for re-election. Mayor Ramsey is an intelligent, lowkeyed but hard-driving citizen of great ability,

With Republican and Democratic primary elections scheduled in Hamilton County May 2, it is really no surprise that many candidates are unopposed. That’s because they have performed so excellently in office that there are good reasons to

Chattanooga attorneys Thomas Crutchfield and Steven W. Grant are competing for the Democratic nomination to the fill the Circuit Court vacancy created by the retirement of the veteran and well-respected Judge Sam Payne. Mr. Grant is the better

Filed By Lindsey Young Jack Roush struck it big last year by having half the field in the NASCAR Chase for the Nextel Cup Championship, and in doing so raised the bar on what an organization can achieve. However, with three of his teams out of

The scope of Chattanooga’s City Court may be much reduced these days, but the court still serves a vital function in the life of the community. Though it no longer handles criminal cases, City Court has an expansive and still expanding role

Political scientists no doubt can explain the reasons for the phenomenon, but it is increasingly obvious that incumbents have a significant advantage when it comes to seeking elected office. Judicial races in the May 2 balloting here are an

By Tom GriscomPublisher and Executive Editor A fine line exists between journalists and those they cover. Mayor Ron Littlefield’s recent decision to ban a Chattanooga Times Free Press reporter from any contact with city employees was more

By Ian BerryStaff Writer The parent company of the Tennessee-American Water Co. took an initial step this afternoon toward selling the Chattanooga water supplier next year as part of a public stock offering. RWE AG, the parent company, had

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff Writer Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue signed into law today a measure designed to shut down Rossville-based bingo games used to raise money for three Chattanooga charities.The new law requires the Chattanooga groups to begin

By Dorie TurnerStaff Wirter Two-year-old Luke Cenkus was released from T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital today, one week after he and his family were attacked by a black bear in Polk County. Luke, who underwent one surgery for significant

By Emily BerryStaff Writer Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen today announced a new initiative to investigate the causes of the state’s high infant mortality rate and ways to improve it.Speaking at an Infant Mortality Summit in Memphis, the

By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterThe clouds hung around the Dalton, Ga., skies this morning as the fourth stage of the Tour de Georgia began, but precipitation never materialized to dampen the festivities.“Last year, the sun was shining straight

By Mike O’Neal Staff Writer A jury in the courtroom of Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge Rebecca Stern today found Tony Bigoms not guilty of all charges related to the kidnapping, rape and murder of a prostitute in 2002. Mr. Bigoms had

By Ian BerryStaff WriterThe six contested Hamilton County Commission primaries will be decided May 2, but the race for campaign donations already has yielded some lopsided returns.In all six primaries, one candidate holds a decided advantage in

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterFormer Catoosa County Commission Chairman L.C. Cripps is seeking to oust GOP state Rep. Ron Forster in the July 18 Republican primary election.Mr. Cripps, a former Democrat and ex-sheriff’s deputy, said the

By Dick CookStaff WriterJASPER, Tenn. — Four candidates for Marion County sheriff are focusing on more patrols, working more closely with municipal police departments and continuing the fight against drugs.Incumbent Ronnie “Bo”

Hamilton County Commissioner Lou Miller sent out an April 13 letter to District 6 voters asking for their support and pointing to her long-standing ties to the district.“My opponent, from all accounts, has never lived in the district and does

Filed by Steve Barrett There’s magic in a garden.I’m a mediocre gardener at best, but the wonder of God’s Earth is that he can turn the efforts of even the fair to middling among us into something of joyful beauty.Four years ago,

By Ron ClaytonCorrespondent Polk County officials said they’ve been told that they will lose a lawsuit challenging the county’s authority to collect taxes on rafting tickets for Ocoee River trips. County Executive Hoyt Firestone said

The Associated Press ATLANTA — The U.S. Justice Department gave its approval today to a Georgia law requiring voters to show photo ID at the polls. But it is unclear whether legal challenges surrounding the voter ID law will be resolved in

Ricky Barnes, the 2002 U.S. Amateur champion who was low amateur in the 2003 Masters, has been awarded a sponsor’s exemption into the Chattanooga Classic to be held at Black Creek Club. Barnes played in Chattanooga last year and tied for

Authorities in northern Georgia removed the wreckage today from the plane crash that killed legendary test pilot Scott Crossfield, the first man to fly at twice the speed of sound, the Associated Press reported.Crossfield was found dead Thursday

Contributed Photo By popping a balloon with a dart, state Rep. Gerald McCormick, R-Chattanooga, left, won $200 for Birchwood Elementary School’s Parent-Teacher Association during the Tennessee Health Care Association’s

The 1960s ushered in an era of made-to-order cars, expanded selection and ferocious competition for sales. And the intermediate 1966-?67 Ford Fairlanes were smack in the middle of the action. Of course, the trend of offering buyers just about

A word of advice to all the women out there in readerland preparing to learn how to drive a car with a manual transmission: bring perfume. Trust me. You?re going to need something to mask the odor of burning clutch . . . it?s really, really

Dear Tom and Ray: I am currently living in Taiwan, and I don?t have access to your radio show. But I can get your column! I?m hearing a lot of hype about how great hybrids are, and since I love road trips and hate expensive gas, I?m

DEA agents say the suspected meth lab raided in South Dunlap this morning is elaborate, even by their standards. The lab is believed to have nationwide connections and is described by authorities as one of the largest in Tennessee’s

Mitsubishi turns up the heat with a new Eclipsedroptop Break out your warm-weather gear, grab some sunscreen, put on a pair of cool shades and head down to your local Mitsubishi store, because summer is near (or here) and the hot new Mitsubishi

Supporters of both Red Burrows and Larry Henry have used voting records as ammunition as the two Republican candidates for Hamilton County Commission seek their party's nomination in the May 2 election. Records show Mr. Henry, the commission

Is anybody home at John Allen Brooks' St. Elmo residence? Mr. Brooks, a Democratic candidate for Hamilton County Commission District 6, says he lives in the house on Alabama Avenue, and he's got the expensive gas bills and other mail to prove

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins If the podcast isn’t up then it’s not Friday. It is, and we’ve got a doozy this week: Channing Wilson of The Tennessee Rounders and I chat in the parking lot behind T-Bone’s and he tells us about

After becoming an item on the campaign trail in recent weeks, Hamilton County Democratic Party Chairman Stuart James has paid his property taxes, as of April 11. Two Hamilton County Commission candidates, District 7 Republican Red Burrows and

By Ian Berry Staff Writer The most crowded race for Hamilton County Commission this year appears to be Hixson-area District 3, where four Republicans hope to replace Charlotte Vandergriff and a fifth is considering a run. The wide field

By Michael Davis Staff Writer Chattanooga lawyer John Allen Brooks said Wednesday he will challenge Hamilton County Commissioner Lou Miller in next May's Democratic primary. Mr. Brooks, who served as chairman of the Hamilton County

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer Getting the jail recertified, changing the management structure of the sheriff's office and getting the office accredited are key for Andy Derryberry, Republican candidate for Hamilton County sheriff. "The next

By Candice Combs Staff Writer Three former Hamilton County Sheriff's Office chief deputies have expressed an interest in unseating Sheriff John Cupp, who says he's been too busy to decide whether he's running for another term. "I haven't

By Ian Berry Staff Writer The race between Hamilton County Commissioner Lou Miller and Democratic primary challenger John Allen Brooks has been among the most heated commission races so far, but both candidates say issues are what will decide

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Democratic candidates for Hamilton County sheriff and County Commission focused on education and corruption among other issues at a Tuesday evening forum. The forum was hosted by the Greater Chattanooga

by Mike O'Neal Staff Writer Local attorney Tom Crutchfield has started his campaign to become Hamilton County Circuit Court judge in Division II. The post will be vacated by the retirement of Judge Sam Payne. "The reason I'm running is that

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer Billy Long, a candidate for Hamilton County sheriff, told supporters Tuesday night that he plans to put resource officers back in schools, start a drug and alcohol awareness program and begin other community

Hamilton County General Sessions Judge David Bales has recused himself from hearing any cases involving Assistant District Attorney Mary Sullivan Moore and defense lawyers Hallie McFadden and Joey Warwick. Ms. Moore, Ms. McFadden and Mr.

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Hamilton County Commissioner Lou Miller faces opposition in the Democratic Party, and the apparent opposition of the county party chairman, as she seeks re-election. Attorney John Brooks, a former party chairman

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Hamilton County Commission Chairman Larry Henry will have at least one, if not two challengers, as he seeks re-election in 2006. Melvin "Red" Burrows, a retired Colonial Baking Co. employee, has qualified for the

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer Five men with law enforcement backgrounds qualified for the Hamilton County sheriff's race. All the candidates have worked for at least one year for the sheriff's office, and two served as chief deputies under

By Ian Berry Staff Writer A longtime Hamilton County Sheriff's Department employee who patrolled Hamilton County waters for years is among those running for sheriff. Hank DeArman, who is seeking the Democratic nomination in the May 2

By Angie Herrington Staff Writer Quenston Coleman, a candidate in the Chattanooga City Council District 9 race, said he would quit his job with the state, if necessary, to comply with a City Charter provision. The charter states that "no

By Ian Berry Staff Writer The most crowded race for Hamilton County Commission this year appears to be Hixson-area District 3, where four Republicans hope to replace Charlotte Vandergriff and a fifth is considering a run. The wide field

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Eight of nine Hamilton County Commission seats and the county mayor's position will be contested in the 2006 election season. The qualifying deadline was Thursday at noon. Democratic challenger Brian Johnson

By Herman Wang Staff Writer Economic development and crime top the lists of concerns among candidates vying to fill the open District 9 City Council seat vacated by Yusuf Hakeem. Debbie Gaines, Quenston Coleman, Eric A. Colen Sr. and

Commission activity expected to be livelier with all seats up for grabs By Ian Berry Staff Writer With all nine county commissioners' and the county mayor's terms ending in 2006, political veterans say there may be some grandstanding and

By Brian Lazenby Staff Writer Hamilton County District Attorney Bill Cox said several assistant prosecutors running for judgeships should not have a dramatic impact on the ability of his office to handle its caseload. Mr. Cox's office

By Ian Berry Staff Writer A dozen candidates seeking Hamilton County Commission seats discussed education and taxes at a forum Tuesday evening. The forum, held at Chattanooga State Technical Community College, included two sets of

By Ian Berry Staff Writer The race for the Hamilton County Commission's District 5 seat has emerged as a focus for leaders in both local parties, with current officeholder Democratic Commissioner Greg Beck being challenged by the Rev. Bernie

By Kathleen Baydala Staff Writer Though the qualifying deadline for next year's county elections is not until February, about half a dozen candidates already have declared their plans to run for office and begun amassing their campaign war

By Herman Wang Staff Writer Four candidates, Quenston Coleman, Eric A. Colen Sr., Debbie Gaines and Edward L. Williams Sr., are running to fill the open Chattanooga City Council seat for District 9. The district includes precincts in

Filed by Mallory Carra 10 a.m. - Reflecting on RomeAs I waited for the Stage 2 press conference to begin, one of the volunteers made conversation with me.

Hamilton County sheriff candidates will participate in a forum Tuesday at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The forum will be at Grote Hall at the intersection of Baldwin and Vine streets. The event is from 6 to 8 p.m. SHERIFF MONEY

As the contest between Hamilton County Commissioner Lou Miller and challenger John Allen Brooks heats up, so is the battle between Ms. Miller and top local Democratic Party officials. Mrs. Miller, a Democrat, said Thursday it was "tacky" and

Senate campaigns line up heavyweights for final push Saturday, November 04, 2006Campaign literature blitz time Friday, November 03, 2006A day of Clinton and Clinton Thursday, November 02, 2006Oddsmakers place bets on state contest Wednesday,

By Cliff Hightower Staff Writer Two Democrats will face U.S. Rep. Lincoln Davis, D-Pall Mall, in the August primary, state election records show. Norma Cartwright and Harvey Howard both turned in petitions last week to run in the 4 th

By Randall Higgins Cleveland Bureau CLEVELAND, Tenn. &#8212 With less than three weeks to go before the primary election, the Republican campaign for Bradley County sheriff is heating up. A campaign flier from incumbent Sheriff Dan

By Randall Higgins Cleveland Bureau CLEVELAND, Tenn. ? The two Republican candidates for Bradley County Mayor are focusing on the county?s growth, both past and future, and proposing how they will manage it. Incumbent D. Gary Davis is

As the contest between Hamilton County Commissioner Lou Miller and challenger John Allen Brooks heats up, so is the battle between Ms. Miller and top local Democratic Party officials. Mrs. Miller, a Democrat, said Thursday it was "tacky" and

By Cliff Hightower Staff Writer Many residents in Bradley, McMinn, Meigs and Polk counties will have new representatives in the Tennessee House and Senate next year with two incumbents stepping down. Thursday was the qualifying deadline

By Ben Benton Staff Writer DUNLAP, Tenn. &#8212 The District 7 constable post in Sequatchie County left open in February by a resignation will remain that way until voters cast ballots this summer, commissioners said this week. "I’m

By Ron Clayton Correspondent ATHENS, Tenn. &#8212 A candidate for McMinn County Circuit Court clerk believes she has been put on leave without pay from her job because she is running against her boss, Norma Corn White. Rhonda Cooley, who

By Michael Davis Staff Writer Twenty-one business and government leaders from Southeast Tennessee have formed a political action committee to support candidates they say hold high ethical standards. "We believe the Tennessee Waltz and

By Ben Benton Staff Writer PIKEVILLE, Tenn. - The May 2 Republican and Democratic primaries in Bledsoe County?s race for sheriff are filled with candidates vying for a spot on the August general election ballot, elections officials said.

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff Writer Hamilton County Board of Education members voted 8-1 Thursday to hire Dr. Jim Scales to replace outgoing schools Superintendent Jesse Register. “I hope you all can leave here confident that we have chosen

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Laura Oakley , who is challenging Hamilton County Commissioner Fred Skillern in the District 1 Republican primary, said she wants to be more accessible and visible to the public. "I have an invisible commissioner

By Ian Berry Staff Writer The race to represent Signal Mountain on the Hamilton County Commission is revolving around the new high school being built there and the tax increase that made it possible, both Republican candidates agree. Ken

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Hamilton County Commissioner Richard Casavant, who ran unopposed four years ago, faces two challenges as he tries to win a third term. Two Signal Mountain residents say they disapprove of Dr. Casavant's stance on

By Ian Berry Staff Writer A woman who says voters countywide are looking for a change on the Hamilton County Commission will challenge Fred Skillern in the 1st District Republican primary. Laura Oakley, a professional job recruiter, said

Nashville Bureau NASHVILLE — Rep. Gerald McCormick, R-Chattanooga, said Wednesday he will not seek the 11 th Senate District seat, but fellow Rep. Bo Watson, R-Hixson, said he is continuing to explore a run. Sen. David Fowler,

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterGeorgia Gov. Sonny Perdue put his signature on two bills today designed to promote the Bible in the public sphere and almost certain to face legal challenges over their constitutionality.Under the new laws, public

By Yolanda Putman Staff Writer District 9 residents are hosting a second community forum to hear from people interested in representing the district on the City Council. "If you want to be the representative, come and talk to the

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp is expected to seek re-election to a fourth term, longtime supporter Mike Walden said Friday. Sheriff Cupp said he made a decision "a long time ago," but would not announce it

Staff Photo by Nikole DuggerCarl Weiss and his son, Andrew, react as a cyclist crosses the finish line on Riverfront Parkway during today's Tour de Georgia time trial.By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterBefore the rain came this afternoon, downtown

By Emily BerryStaff Writer Reese Fisher, a 4-year-old Fort Oglethorpe boy, underwent major brain surgery at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md., this afternoon and will recover under close watch for the next few days, his surgeon

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Democratic candidates for Hamilton County sheriff and County Commission focused on education and corruption among other issues at a Tuesday evening forum. The forum was hosted by the Greater Chattanooga

Filed by Mallory Carra 12:30 p.m. — Mountain view siteI’m on the corner of Nickajack Lane in a church parking lot, and I don’t know how I got here or where I am. I followed a bunch of signs toward Lookout Mountain that said

Filed by Mallory CarraI could tell right away that Chickamauga is fully embracing the Tour de Georgia.Signs lined the houses and busines on the route to historic downtown, and kids were let out of school early to catch the 11 a.m. start of the time

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins This week and next, at midnight, Cartoon Networks Adult Swim will air their favorite episodes of Saved By the Bell. This move upset some of the hardcore fans, and you can catch the episodes most mornings on TBS, but I

By Matthew S.L. Cate Staff Writer LaFAYETTE, Ga. Citing a need for more responsive representation, a Walker County sheriffs deputy plans to seek the Democratic nomination and oppose incumbent GOP state Sen. Jeff Mullis in his re-election

By Brian Lazenby Staff Writer Former Hamilton County Assistant District Attorney Mary Sullivan Moore officially has launched her campaign for Division II judge of General Sessions Court. "I enjoy serving my neighbors to help ensure my

By Dick Cook Staff Writer JASPER, Tenn. Judge Clifford Layne and Mark Raines will face off in the Democratic primary May 2 for Marion County General Sessions Court Judge.Election officials said there is no Republican candidate, so the winner of

Filed by Herman Wang WUHAN, China —The folks at ABC probably already know this, but I’m sure they’ll be very pleased to hear Desperate Housewives is a hit show in China.My fiancee, Megan, spent a year teaching English at a

By Michael Davis Staff Writer Van Hilleary said Tuesday that high name identification earned during his unsuccessful 2002 gubernatorial bid should give him an advantage over a Republican challenger in the Aug. 3 U.S. Senate primary. Mr.

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer All four Hamilton County sheriff candidates challenging incumbent John Cupp said at a forum Tuesday that his department is disconnected from the community and needs more involvement in schools and neighborhoods.

By Dick Cook Staff Writer JASPER, Tenn. Jerry Don Case is challenging Howell Moss in the May 2 Democratic primary for Marion County mayor. No Republican candidate qualified for the primary, so the winner will become the next county

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp did not raise or spend any campaign funds during the last reporting cycle while Andy Derryberry, his opponent in the Republican primary, raised more than $20,000, campaign financial

Cleveland Bureau CLEVELAND, Tenn. &#8212 Two well-known and popular law enforcement officials are seeking the Republican nomination for Bradley County sheriff in the May 2 party primary. Incumbent Dan Gilley is seeking what he calls a

Erlanger hospital board Chairman Bob Johnson has decided against seeking to succeed the late state Rep. Jack Sharp, R-East Ridge. Mr. Johnson, a former East Ridge mayor, said he withdrew his name from consideration for the Hamilton County

Around 90 people attended a M.L. King Neighborhood Association meeting this evening to hear Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield discuss the nine-acre campus of homeless services the city plans to develop in the area. Questions raised by residents

By Ian Berry Staff Writer The Rev. Bernie Miller's Sunday morning radio show is going off the air after questions about whether it violates federal "equal time" rules now that he is a Hamilton County Commission candidate. Dr. Miller, a

By Ginny LaRoe Staff Writer Hamilton County Sheriff John Cupp faces more opposition this year than in any other election since he took office in 1994, records show. "I believe the reason the heavy turnout for candidates in that race is

From staff reportsUniversity of Tennessee football signee Jacques McClendon has left Baylor School and has enrolled in Walker Valley High School in Bradley County. “Pursuant to school policy we cannot discuss the specifics of this

By Michael Davis Staff Writer Hamilton County Election Administrator Bud Knowles said early voting turnout is lower than normal for May primaries, and he would like to see local political party officials try to improve it. I think the political

Contributed PhotoEmployees of Erlanger’s Neurological Intensive Care Unit and the hospital’s critical care staff held a reception honoring Dr. Walter M. Boehm, who is retiring after nearly 35 years of service in the medical community

Filed by Donnie Jenkins The first high definition DVD player came out this week, an HD-DVD player released by Toshiba. They are already getting hard to find. This is odd because theres almost no content for these players yet. Blu-Ray players are

John Allen Brooks, a Democratic candidate for Hamilton County Commission District 6, said this week he served 48 hours in jail after being convicted of driving under the influence in 1991. Records show he was charged Dec. 22, 1990, and pleaded

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Red Burrows and Hamilton County Commission Chairman Larry Henry are in a heated District 7 Republican primary campaign that is revolving around schools and taxes. Mr. Burrows said he is running because Mr. Henry

By Candice Combs Staff Writer Among them, Dave Alverson, Andy Derryberry and Jim Hammond have more than 100 years of policing experience. At one point in their careers, each has been chief deputy for the Hamilton County Sheriff's

By Randall Higgins Cleveland Bureau CLEVELAND, Tenn. &#8212 Tim Gobble resigned as Bradley County Emergency Management Agency director Monday to continue his campaign for sheriff in the May 2 Republican primary. Mr. Gobble is challenging

By Michael Davis Staff Writer Rep. Dewayne Bunch, RCleveland, announced Tuesday he will seek the Senate District 9 seat to be vacated by Sen. Jeff Miller, R-Cleveland. Rep. Bunch made the announcement by a state legislative e-mail, which

By Cliff Hightower Staff Writer Two Republicans have filed petitions to run for the 4th Congressional District seat currently held by Democrat Lincoln Davis, election officials said Wednesday. A third person also picked up a qualifying

By Kathleen Baydala Staff Writer Hamilton county commissioners' vote on the recent property tax increase could be an issue that will either hang them or help them as incumbents in next year's elections, local political officials said.

Filed By Kelley Smiddie Perhaps the most recent development in the evolution of girls’ fastpitch softball has been the emergence of the all-around player. Baseball gave us the term “five-tool player” to describe the athlete

By Cliff Hightower Staff Writer Voter registration has surged in some counties with hotly contested races and stayed steady in others, area election officials said. Saturday was the deadline for people to register to vote in the May 2

By DANIEL YEEAssociated Press WriterRANGER, Ga. — The son-in-law of legendary test pilot Scott Crossfield confirmed today that Crossfield’s body was found in the wreckage of his plane in north Georgia.In a telephone interview from his

Check tfponline.com each Wednesday to see how the Times Free Press staff guess-perts ranked Tuesday nights American Idol performances. Well predict who we think will be in Wednesday nights bottom three and who will get the boot. Emily Berry: Ace

By Mallory CarraStaff Writer ROME, Ga. - Yaroslav Popovych of Discovery Channel won the second stage of the Tour de Georgia, finishing the 116.1-mile course with an unofficial time of 4:47:39. Popovych jumped into the lead in the final lap around

By Nikole DuggerStaff Writer Though he usually stays awake long after Conan O’Brien’s show ends, Cleveland Wheeler had to retreat midway through “American Idol” last night. The Chattanooga native returned to his hometown

By Yolanda PutmanStaff Writer National Weather Service officials said there is a 40 percent chance that showers and thunderstorms may return today. Lightning and thunderstorms today caused more than 1,000 residents in the Chattanooga area to be

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Chattanooga Fire Department officials are investigating a small fire that broke out at the Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences this morning. The fire started in the old gymnasium and was extinguished by the

Filed by Angie Herrington The local union representing Chattanooga city employees aims to show people what our new union can do politically on election day, according to an April flyer the group has distributed. It is important that we VOTE and

By Michael DavisStaff Writer County Election Administrator Bud Knowles said early voting is lower than normal for May primaries, and he would like to see local political party officials try to improve turnout. I think the political parties need

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff Writer A Walker County sheriffs deputy is seeking to run as a Democrat against incumbent GOP state Sen. Jeff Mullis, party officials said today. Walker County Democratic Party Chairman Ed Helton said LaFayette resident

Staff Report An elderly woman was injured this afternoon in a North Chattanooga house fire, according to Chattanooga Fire Department personnel. The house at 1115 Valentine Circle sustained significant damage, officials said. The womans identity

Staff Graphic by Laura E. Walker

The Hamilton County Board of Education will meet Thursday to discuss a new superintendent contract and the 2007 operating budget. The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the central office at 6703 Bonny Oaks Drive. Dr. Jim Scales, deputy

By NEDRA PICKLERAssociated Press Writer WASHINGTON White House Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove gave up some of his responsibilities and White House press secretary Scott McClellan announced his resignation today, continuing a shakeup in President

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins The one-page press release that accompanies the new Drive By Truckers album, A Blessing and a Curse, is full of grandiose talk about this Southern five-pieces position as greatest band in the world. Id love to take such

If you happen to make it to any of the auto shows taking place across the country, you know how overwhelming it all is. You cruise past many familiar vehicles, many not-so-familiar, and some that are just plain out of this world or completely off

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff WriterDr. Jim Scales will be offered $194,000 to become superintendent of the Hamilton County Schools system, Board of Education member Joe Conner said today.I negotiated directly with Dr. Scales, and he indicated he

Filed by Ashley RowlandVisa has a slogan: Its everywhere you want to be. Not true.While traveling in Rwanda, I carried the local currency in a zippered pouch I wore under my clothing. I carried a debit card and a credit card for emergencies, though

By Wesley RuckerStaff WriterGreen Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre will be in Chattanooga Thursday for a luncheon to benefit the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football program.Mocs coach Rodney Allison was Favres offensive coordinator

By Ian BerryStaff WriterMany of the candidate forums going on in this election season take place in venues that are full of people but empty of what candidates value most: votes.Remove the candidates (and their parents, spouses and other members of

Filed by Anne Braly The Longhorn restaurant on Highway 153 is now open, with Olive Garden soon to follow. Moe's Southwest Grill is now building a new restaurant in the area - the other is on Gunbarrel Road. So, what's next to come? Remember when

MUSICcast: M. Trevor Higgins talks to Channing Wilson of The Tennessee Rounders and he tells about the inspiration for “Hardcore Trucker,” the first track of their latest album 4/21/06 MP3

By Ashley Rowland Staff Writer MAYANGAYANGA, Uganda Three teenagers live alone in a tiny concrete house off a dirt road, miles from the nearest village. In their back yard is a graveyard where about a dozen family members are buried. Most of

A people's plightNight can be deadly even in towns like GuluAIDS leaves devastation among Uganda's children

By Ashley Rowland Staff WriterGULU, Uganda Mary Ayugi opens the makeshift door to the outdoor latrine, releasing a swarm of flies and a potent stench. The latrine is a roofless hole in the ground surrounded by three mud walls. Its door is made

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Two Hamilton County Jail corrections officers are on medical leave after receiving scrapes and cuts during an attack last week, officials said today.Five jail inmates attacked two corrections officers Friday at around 11

By Ashley Rowland Staff Writer GULU, Uganda Gulu is a city that has become a fortress. By day, it looks like an ordinary Ugandan town, except for the all-terrain vehicles emblazoned with logos from the United Nations or other aid

By Andy SherNashville Bureau NASHVILLE Legislation that would boost economic incentives for companies creating mid-size businesses in Tennessee cleared a major hurdle today, passing the Senate Finance Committee on a 10-0 vote. Its very

By Dorie TurnerStaff Writer Tennessee wildlife officials have trapped another black bear near the Polk County campsite where a family was attacked last week, but the animal will not be killed until tests on the first bear are complete, they

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins Rhythm & Brews has a new Web site. Check it here. Other than being easy on the eyes, the new site also lets you purchase tickets online, for a small convenience fee. The fee varies, but isnt more than a couple of

Filed by Steve Barrett Say what you will, but I dont think its coincidence that the last jelly beans left in the candy jar on a desk in the east end of the newsroom are almost all black licorice. You know the buyer-beware labels they put on

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff Writer RINGGOLD, Ga. Congressman Nathan Deal said today that federal-level immigration reform will be very difficult to get out of Congress this year unless the U.S. Senate agrees to toughen enforcement along the

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer The five candidates for Hamilton County sheriff spoke to the Chattanooga Kiwanis club meeting today. The candidates challenging incumbent John Cupp said the sheriffs department agree the sheriff needs to be more

Dear Tom and Ray: I am having a dispute with two of my three sons, and I would appreciate seeing what your solution is. Specifically, they claim that in order to increase traction on snow and ice, and even sand, one should remove air from the

From staff reportsOoltewah senior Kyler Burke was picked for the 2006 All-American baseball game presented by PlayStation. Burke, who is among the area leaders in almost every offensive category, will be presented his All-American game jersey in a

Hazlett, Lewis & Bieter PLLC, a Chattanooga-based accounting firm, recently presented a $2,500 check to Beta Alpha Psi, which is an accounting honor society at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. From left to right are Sharon Atwell,

By MALCOLM GUNNWHEELBASE COMMUNICATIONS Contrary to popular belief, the Ford Mustang was never intended to be anything more than a hip set of wheels for a hip new generation. Performance wasn't really part of the total equation until Ford

By MALCOLM GUNNWHEELBASE COMMUNICATIONS Despite ever-inflating gas prices, there's still a hot market for full-size sport-utility vehicles that deliver plenty of power along with a full load of luxury amenities. Joining these colossus-class

BaseballSoccerSoftballTennisTrack

Staff ReportAlice

TECHcast: Donnie Jenkins discusses partitioning hard drives, unique problems with PC's and Macs and partitioning. 04/18/06 MP3 Downloadhttp://www.timesfreepress.com/podcast/tech/mp3/041806.mp3 SUBSCRIBE

Filed by Michael DavisU.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., recently started offering podcasts through the Internet site of his political action committee, VOLPAC.Podcasts are recorded audio segments downloaded from the Internet that can

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff Writer About half of Hamilton Countys 79 public schools have signed up for help from Serve Chattanooga, a nonprofit organization that links volunteers and donors to schools that need maintenance projects, tutors and

By Randall HigginsCleveland Bureau Bradley County commissioners today voted to counter a Chancery Court motion by trustees of the former county hospital seeking control of $20 million to $30 million in proceeds from the sale by filing their own

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff Writer Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue this afternoon signed into law a controversial proposal that directs taxpayer-funded benefits away from illegal immigrants and seeks to pressure employers to stop hiring illegal

Check out coverage of the 278th Homecoming celebration in the Chattanooga Times Free Press and at www.tfponline.com this weekend.

Filed by Donnie Jenkins Today in my column and podcast I discuss the concept of partitioning a hard drive, including the new Boot Camp software from Apple that allows running Windows on an Intel Mac. The column concentrates on Boot Camp, while in

By Angie Herrington Staff WriterFamily members of the 6-year-old Ohio girl killed Thursday in a bear attack spoke in Chattanooga today of the young girl's vibrant personality and her love of nature and butterflies. The black bear suspected in the

The UTC Patten performance by Perlman/Schmidt/Bailey is 7:30 tonight in the Fine Arts Center. A story in Fridays weekend section was incorrect. Information: (423) 425-4269, www.utc.edu/Units/FineArtsCenter/

By Rose FrenchThe Associated PressNASHVILLE - The black bear believed to have attacked a family at a popular mountaintop campground, killing a 6-year-old girl, was caught today, according to the U.S. Forest Service.Authorities found the bear in the

By Mike ONealStaff WriterThe hunt continued Saturday for a black bear that mauled three members of an Ohio family Thursday in the Cherokee National Forest.The status of 2-year-old Luke Cenkus was upgraded Saturday to fair condition, according to

By Nikole DuggerStaff Writer After a trip to BellSouth Park sparked his interest in the history of baseball in the Scenic City, Stephen Martini set off in search for a book on the topic.When he discovered that the most recent title was published

Chattanooga on short list for Toyota plantStaff and Wire ReportsToyota is considering Chattanooga and three other Southern cities for the site of its eighth North American assembly plant, the latest move in an expansion that could soon make it the

Former Tennessee state Rep. Chris Newton now is one of 581 inmates housed at the federal Atlanta Community Corrections Camp, a minimum security facility next to the Atlanta federal penitentiary, according to U.S. Bureau of Prisons records.

Filed by Donnie Jenkins This week Hewlett-Packard announced some new laser printers at a great price point. It appears the low end printer will sell for $299, amazing for a laser. There is a new trend for TV networks to release reruns of popular

By Mike ONealStaff Writer The official temperature of 87 degrees recorded today at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airports Lovell Field set a new record for April 14, according to meteorologists with the National Weather Service. Weather service

By Ian BerryStaff WriterDevelopers have closed on a deal to purchase the old Wheland Foundry landfill site in South Chattanooga, which had been the proposed spot for a controversial landfill. Mike Mallen, president of Perimeter Properties, said he

Filed by staff writer Herman Wang The first thing you notice about Beijing is the air pollution. A blanket of haze envelops the city, blocking out the sun for days at a time, and even buildings just three or four blocks down are obscured. It was

Filed by Steve Barrett News item: Brad Pitt plans to narrate a PBS series on environmentally friendly architecture. Reports on why anybody should care remain sketchy at this writing.*** Few things amuse me more, as Im loading my cart at the

By Stephen HargisAssistant Sports EditorTennessee Temple High School named Greg Brown its new boys basketball coach today. Brown, the head coach of the Temple girls program this past season, replaces Dan Wadley, who resigned to take the McCallie

By Ronnie MooreStaff Writer The Fort Oglethorpe City Council voted 3-2 late Thursday to uphold the demotion for insubordination of former Police Chief Doug Howell to captain. The decision to back the demotion ordered by City Manager James Dinley

By Nikole DuggerStaff Writer Barns dot the rolling land along Highway 201 in North Georgia, and the brick entrance to Paradise Arabians Ltd. in Dalton, Ga., does little to distinguish the farm from neighbors. During the one-mile journey to the

Doctors at Erlanger hospital today said the woman attacked by a black bear in Polk County Thursday evening suffered about eight puncture wounds to the neck.The womans 2-year-old son has a significant puncture wound to the skull, doctors said. The

Contributed PhotoU.S. Xpress Co-Chairman Max Fuller, left, shakes hands with Chattanooga State President Dr. Jim Catanzaro following the sale of a U.S. Xpress truck to Chattanooga State for $1. The truck, featuring auto-shift transmission among its

Polk County dispatchers said a 2-year-old boy and a 45-year-old woman were attacked by a bear at a campground on Chilhowee Mountain about 4:20 p.m. Thursday. A search was under way for a 6-year-old girl, Dispatcher Gary Verner said.Mr. Verner said

By Angie Herrington Staff Writer Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield today banned a Chattanooga Times Free Press reporter from talking to city officials and employees. Investigative reporter Michael A. Weber no longer is allowed to call, gather

By Ginny LaRoeStaff WriterA Chattanooga firefighter was suspended for 28 days without pay after being charged with insubordination, a Chattanooga Fire Department spokesman said today.Capt. Tara Weaver, who supervises Fire Station No. 20 in Lookout

By Dick CookStaff Writer JASPER, Tenn. Marion County Sheriffs Department investigators, with the help of 14 other area law enforcement agencies, arrested about 45 people today for buying illegal quantities of pseudoephedrine, the precursor drug

Filed by M. Trevor HigginsThings got out of hand during our newsroom volleyball teams weekly game last Tuesday and I was carried out of the YMCA with an ankle the size of a softball. So yesterday, after X-rays and a boot fitting, I spent the day on

Filed by Nikole Dugger Complacency is rarely planned. The byproduct of superiority and dominance begins as a a gradual dissension, resulting in the gradual removal of will, and only becoming apparent once epidemic status has been reached. Having

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins This week on the podcast weve got brand new music from Infradigs forthcoming album that you cant hear anywhere else. Theyll be at Riverbend this year, but theyre also a signature away from playing a larger outdoor music

By Michael DavisStaff Writer Chattanooga lawyer Bob Davis kicked off his campaign this week for the Division I judicial post for Hamilton County General Sessions Court. Mr. Davis said his 33 years of experience practicing both civil and criminal

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff Writer The proposed 2007 Hamilton County Schools budget includes $200,000 for the salary for the new superintendent. But schools officials said tonight that that figure will change, depending on contract negotiations

By Michael DavisStaff Writer Three Republican candidates have dropped out of the GOP primary for the 31st state House District, leaving five GOP hopefuls on the Aug. 3 primary ballot.Jeff Lewis, George Thacker and David Norton withdrew from the

Contributed Photo Debra Gregory and Kent Freels, both of Chattanooga, were among four students recently completing the Tennessee Business Enterprises entry-level training through Opportunity East, the rehabilitation division of Lions Volunteer

Bradley County Commissioner Ralph Creel apologized today after a fellow commissioner filed a police complaint stating that Mr. Creel had threatened to kill a county constable whose re-election bid is being challenged by Mr. Creels son. I meant

Contributed PhotoMayor Ron Littlefield, center left, presents a proclamation to Tennessee Athletic Trainers Society Hall of Fame member Bob Nevil, center right, in recognition of Athletic Training Month. Other athletic trainers attending the

A construction crew accidentally broke a gas line today in the 1200 block of Wisdom Street, Chattanooga Fire Department spokesman Bruce Garner said. Chattanooga Gas Co. officials responded to the leak and told the fire department that it would

By Matt AndersonStaff Writer DALTON, Ga. Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus said failure is necessary for success. He spoke during a press conference before the Dalton-Whitfield Boy and Girls Clubs 14th Annual Steak & Stake fund raiser event

MUSICcast: M. Trevor Higgins has new music from Infradigs forthcoming album, also Elliot Reviews Something and Sounds of this Town 4/14/06 MP3 Downloadhttp://www.timesfreepress.com/podcast/music/mp3/041406.mp3 SUBSCRIBE

By Matthew S.L. CateStaff WriterGeorgia Gov. Sonny Perdue signed into law today class-size reductions setting maximum numbers of students in Georgias K-8 classrooms.They were reductions he had helped delay since his 2002 election, citing economic

By Mike PareStaff WriterChattanooga-based Miller Industries today announced a $10 million expansion and modernization of its tow truck plant in Ooltewah. The move has created more than 100 jobs at the facility that now employs 425 people.E-mail

By Wesley RuckerStaff Writer David Conrady was promoted this morning to associate head coach of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga mens basketball team, according to the UTC sports information department. Conrady just finished his second

By Michael DavisStaff Writer Former U.S. Rep. Van Hilleary, R-Tenn., flew into Chattanooga this morning, meeting supporters and touting the credentials he said qualify him to serve Tennessee in the U.S. Senate. Mr. Hilleary, who served the 4th

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer The Hamilton County Emergency Communications Districts 911 board at its monthly meeting today gave final approval to a $50,000 contract to study unifying the countys 911 operations. But Dan Johnson, chief of staff for

Filed by Steve Barrett Well, ask a silly question, get a bizarrely complete, well-researched answer.Jane Greig does a Q&A column for the Austin (Texas) American-Statesman newspaper. For reasons of random stupidity, I e-mailed her thusly:I

By Wesley RuckerStaff Writer Matthew Pope will be named interim athletic director at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in May after Steve Sloan retires, a university spokesman said this morning. Sloan, who came to UTC four years ago,

Check tfponline.com each Wednesday to see how the Times Free Press staff guess-perts ranked Tuesday nights American Idol performances. Well predict who we think will be in Wednesday nights bottom three and who will get the boot.Anne Braly: Bottom

By Andy SherNashville BureauNASHVILLE A House panel today killed a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to remove the right to an abortion from the Tennessee Constitution.Public Health and Family Assistance Subcommittee members voted 4-3

Filed by Anne Braly The Blue Plate has opened, and its brought another buzz to downtowns aquarium district. Owner Rob Gentry has done a great job of working four blank walls into a room full of excitement. Take, for instance, the huge fluorescent

By Michael DavisStaff WriterTennessee state Sen. Rosalind Kurita, D-Clarksville, announced today that she has withdrawn from the U.S. Senate Democratic primary race against U.S. Rep. Harold Ford Jr., D-Tenn.This is a huge race, and I did everything

DAYTON, Tenn. Rhea County Executive Billy Ray Patton said Tuesday night he would resign from the Rhea County Industrial Development Board after questions arose in a commission workshop about his eligibility to serve on the panel. Mr. Patton said

By Susan PierceStaff Writer The staff of the Chattanooga Area Food Bank is asking the public's assistance in meeting food needs of families in 20 counties of Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia served by the food bank.

A Nature Weekend will be held April 21-23 at Edgar Evins State Park in Sweetwater, Tenn. The event will be hosted by Friends of Edgar Evins State Park Inc., Tennessee Trails Association and Edgar Evins Marina & Edgar Evins State

The Friends of Edgar Evins State Park Inc., which is in Sweetwater, Tenn., has announced it will host its 5th Annual Fall Color Cruise on Saturday, Oct. 21, at the state park's picnic shelter No. 1 in Sweetwater. The pontoon boat ride will be

By The Associated Press The following is a transcript of the cockpit voice recorder aboard United Airlines Flight 93. All times are in EDT on Sept. 11, 2001. Text in parentheses was translated from Arabic.

A jury sitting in Hamilton County Criminal Court deliberated about six hours over two days before finding a Harrison man today not guilty on one count of child rape and two counts of rape. Jeffrey Mitchell Moore was accused of forcing a child, who

A little more than two years after she began rowing, Girls Preparatory School senior Whitney Standefer signed a letter-of-intent today to join the UCLA crew team. She turned down offers from Texas and Syracuse and also was recruited by Clemson,

By Matt AndersonStaff Writer DALTON, Ga. An investigation by the U.S. Chemical and Hazard Investigation Board found that a 2004 chemical spill was avoidable, according to a report released at a news conference today. The report placed most of

By MALCOLM GUNNWHEELBASE COMMUNICATIONSFord believes theres a happy medium between too little and too much truck. Thats why the company has reintroduced the Explorer sport-ute-based Sport Trac, positioned between the junior-sized Ranger pickup and

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Nearly 1,800 trucks were inspected and 33 violations discovered at a roadside checkpoint near Chattanooga today, Tennessee Department of Safety spokesman Melissa McDonald said. Trucks carrying hazardous material, rental

Filed by Nikole Dugger Well, its official. Iran has enriched uranium and is well on the way to powering nuclear plants. I feel safe. Additionally, climbing gas prices are set to be a summertime staple. Being the determined populous that we are,

Filed by staff writer Herman Wang I arrived Saturday in Beijing for my three-week visit to China. While here, I hope to visit some of the industrial corporations in Wuxi that Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield toured during his visit to our

By Angie Herrington Staff Writer The 9-acre campus for the homeless that the city is developing downtown will be a happy, colorful place that is inviting to the whole community, officials said today. Mayor Ron Littlefield met with members of the

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins Kind words for and memories from Arethas continue to arrive. Eileen Garvey sent this from Canada: I have been reading the memories of friends and patrons of Arethas and share with them the distress about the recent

By Andy SherNashville Bureau NASHVILLE A House subcommittee today effectively killed a bill requiring the training of some Tennessee Highway Patrol officers to enforce federal immigration laws. Rep. Ben West, D-Nashville, and other Democrats

By Michael DavisStaff WriterAs early voting begins Wednesday, local party officials say the period is an important time for them to encourage turnout and get Chattanooga area voters excited about the election cycle.The early voting period runs

A Hamilton County jury sitting in Criminal Court announced today that it will return Wednesday to continue deciding the fate of a Harrison man accused of raping a male child multiple times since the child was 11. Jeffrey M. Moore is charged with

By MALCOLM GUNNWHEELBASE COMMUNICATIONSImagine what the public thought when the Volvo 144 sedan was unveiled back in the 1960s. Up to that point, Volvo churned out sporty and rugged vehicles, but the 144s arrival broadened the manufacturers focus

Dear Tom and Ray: I live in San Jose, Calif., where the weather is almost always beautiful. The temperature rarely drops below freezing, even in the winter. However, when I walk my son to school in the morning, I often see cars sitting in

More than 200 students, teachers and administrators from Hamilton Countys 17 high schools spent today talking about how to make classes more rigorous, a state they defined as engaging, challenging, relevant and fun. Students said they learned more

Filed by Ward Gossett Its one of those rules often left to an umpires judgment. Does a hitter have to get out of the way of a pitched ball? It happens time and again. Through last Tuesday, Walker Valley and McCallie batters had been hit and

By Darren EppsStaff WriterATLANTA The Atlanta Braves placed third baseman Chipper Jones on the 15-day disabled list today with Grade 1 the least severe sprains of his knee and ankle.Jones suffered the injuries while chasing down a slow roller on

By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterWith her son growing up in a single-parent household and moving from residence to residence, Eddie Church's mother turned to Big Brothers Big Sisters to provide a male figure in his life.Mr. Church credits the experience

By Ron ClaytonCorrespondent DECATUR, Tenn. Former Meigs County Circuit Court Clerk Debbie Smith is recovering in Erlanger hospital in Chattanooga from a apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Decatur Police Chief Jackie

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer A Chattanooga couple lost their home of 35 years in a morning blaze today.The residents were not home when the fire broke out at 1604 E. 12th St. at around 11 a.m., officials said. Firefighters who entered the home to

By Brian Lazenby Staff Writer Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge Doug Meyer today denied a request for a new trial for Isaac Eugene Jones, who was convicted of killing Chattanooga police officer Julie Jacks.Judge Meyer ruled defense lawyers did

By Gentry EstesStaff Writer KNOXVILLE Make room for another in one of the nations top 2006 basketball recruiting classes. Tennessee received a commitment today from guard Ramar Smith, the nations No. 30 prospect according to Rivals.com. Smith

Filed by staff writer Herman Wang Note to citizens: the Chattanooga City Council will listen to you only twice in a 30-day period during its open meeting time. Chattanooga resident Troy Cox found that out the hard way when he came to the City

By Karina GonzalezStaff WriterAbout 200 immigrants from Latin America marched today along Market Street waving American, Mexican, Guatemalan and Salvadoran flags and carrying picket signs in support of immigration reform. Organizers said the group

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Fourteen Chattanooga Police Department officers have sued the city over the ability to buy back pension credit for time served in other city departments. The officers want the ability to purchase their retirement credit

Filed by Dorie Turner Less than a year into his chancellorship at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Dr. Roger Brown already is out of a job. For today, that is. In an annual tradition, the chancellor is switching places with a student

By Jasonj ReyoldsStaff Writer The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission today approved rezoning that will open the way for a shopping center that will be built on a 36-acre site in the 5800 block of Highway 153 in Hixson. The

Filed by Donnie Jenkins Today in my column, I discuss eBay, and give tips on evaluating sellers, as well as on building a good rep as a buyer. EBay is a valuable resource to many of us. Speaking of eBay, they are being sued over my favorite

Twenty years after the last Central High School girls player signed a college basketball scholarship, two Lady Purple Pounders signed together today to play for Cleveland State Community College. Lady Cougars coach Dan Lumpkin came to the Harrison

Girls Preparatory School senior Michele Brown has signed a letter-of-intent to continue her swimming career at the University of South Carolina. Brown expects to swim the 200 backstroke and the 400 individual medley for the Gamecocks, whom she

By Michael DavisStaff Writer A Signal Mountain woman told the Hamilton County Election Commission this morninjg that she is concerned about the accuracy of electronic voting machines and wants to see ballots hand counted. Kitty Messler

Filed by Ashley Rowland It should have been a warning when we stepped out of our matatu and walked to the bus ticket office without a single sales pitch being thrown our way. We had arrived in Kisoro, a colorless town just across the border from

By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterThe inaugural Market Street Mile and Mystery History Quest went off without a glitch this morning after the clouds parted.About 200 people laced up their running shoes and headed toward the Tennessee Aquarium for a

Staff ReportA 26-year-old man was shot and killed by a friend early Saturday morning, police said.James Adams Mason, of 5750 Lake Resort Drive, Apt. E 101, died from a gunshot wound, according to Sgt. Tim Carroll, head of the Chattanooga Police

Filed by Lindsey Young NBC, in what network officials say is an attempt to gauge anti-Muslim sentiments in the United States, sent Muslim-looking men to Martinsville last week to see how they would be treated.NASCAR officials have called the move

TECHcast: Donnie Jenkins discusses Ebay hints and tips for buyers. 04/11/06 MP3 Downloadhttp://www.timesfreepress.com/podcast/tech/mp3/041106.mp3 SUBSCRIBE http://www.tfponline.com/podcast/tech/techcast.rss

By Mike ONealStaff Writer At least seven people were killed today when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes swept across central Tennessee, tearing off roofs, knocking down power lines, flipping cars and causing an unknown number of injuries,

By Mallory CarraStaff WriterA collection of the areas top players from McCallie, Baylor and GPS has advanced to Saturdays Division A No. 1 singles finals at the Chattanooga Rotary Tennis Tournament at Baylor.Top-seeded Bo Seal of Baylor and

By Beverly A. CarrollStaff Writer A U.S. District Federal Court judge this week ruled in favor of Hamilton County Schools in the latest round of hearings in a special education lawsuit. U.S. District Judge R. Allan Edgar held that the county

By Nikole DuggerStaff WriterThursday afternoon Ricky Vaughn began picking up the pieces after a weekend blaze heavily damaged Aretha Frankensteins.The friend of owner Jeff Brakebill helped build the North Shore area restaurant the first time, and

Filed by Steve Barrett They say nobody ever truly dies in a soap opera. If a character goes over a cliff without a parachute and splatters 10,000 feet below, you can be sure hell pop up next season, tanned and rested from hiding out in Bolivia for

Contributed PhotoThe Modern Woodmen of America recently provided assistance to a resident who needed a wheelchair ramp built. Buster Smith, right, district representative for the Modern Woodmen, was joined by members Randy Coulter, left, and

Filed by Mallory Carra High school tennis is different from what you see on TV. Its not Wimbledon, and its not the U.S. Open.Sure, the serves are tough and the balls are lime green, but its much more laissez-faire.You never know when a match

Well-known watercolor artist Hubert Shuptrine died Thursday night.Last year, Mr. Shuptrine was named by the Tennessee Arts Commission as a recipient of the 2005 Governor's Award in the Arts. That recognition is considered the highest in the arts in

Because of tonights threat of severe weather, the Chattanooga Boys Choirs 7 p.m. concert at Mountain Arts Community Center on Signal Mountain has been postponed. The new date and time has not been determined.

Dr. Brian Noland, associate executive director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, was named the head of West Virginias higher education commission this morning.Dr. Noland, 38, who has been with the commission for eight years, crafted the

By Ben BentonStaff WriterDUNLAP, Tenn. Sequatchie County commissioners overwhelmingly voted to hire seven more jailers to staff the new justice center in hopes of gaining state certification for the facility.The County Commission voted 12-2 to pay

By Patrick DonahueAssistant Sports Editor AUGUSTA, Ga. It was a tough day for the pros and even tougher for the amateurs. U.S. Amateur champion Edoardo Molinari, playing with 2005 Masters champ Tiger Woods in the clubs traditional pairing of the

By Brian LazenbyStaff WriterA jury of eight women and four men deliberated about eight hours over two days before finding a McMinnville real estate appraiser not guilty of fraudulently inflating the value of a lumber mill owned by state Sen. Jerry

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins The charred remains of Aretha Frankensteins arent yet a week old and what we already knew is becoming sadly clear: We miss her. Sure, Jeff promised to rebuild, but that doesnt satisfy our selfish need for comically large

Filed by Michael Davis Prominent political analyst Charlie Cook apparently is no fan of Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn. In a Monday story in The New York Times (free registration required), Mr. Cook, of the independent, nonpartisan

By Brian LazenbyStaff Writer A judge dismissed a civil lawsuit filed by Walker County against Tri-State Crematory and funeral homes that did business there in an attempt to recoup much of the clean-up costs after hundreds of bodies were discovered

MUSICcast: M. Trevor Higgins takes a moment for Aretha Frankenstein's, talks about Balkan Jazz and the Toids, the Big Gig, and something "Beautiful" 4/7/06 MP3 Downloadhttp://www.timesfreepress.com/podcast/music/mp3/040706.mp3 SUBSCRIBE

By Michael DavisStaff Writer Thursday was the qualifying deadline for many Aug. 3 races, including the 31st state House District race, where eight Republicans and one Democrat are running to fill an open seat. James Cobb and George Thacker, of

By Ginny LaRoeStaff Writer Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield apologized to the Chattanooga mother who couldnt get an emergency operator on the phone after her kitchen caught on fire two weeks ago. The mayor said he told Stacey Hunter that her son

Filed by M. Trevor Higgins This week in the podcast, Jennifer McGlohan from the Kidney Foundation talks about the Big Gig, and Brad Passons tells us about his new EP and what it takes to be the best of the cheap hotels. Well also hear Passons

By Brain LazenbyStaff WriterA federal jury of eight women and four men deliberated about six hours today before deciding to return Friday to continue determining the fate of a McMinnville, Tenn., real estate appraiser accused of inflating the value

By Matt AndersonStaff WriterDalton, Ga., cyclist Saul Raisin was put into a drug-induced coma this morning following a crash in the Circuit de la Sarthe, according to VeloNews.com, a cycling magazine Web site.Doctors in Angers, France, said today

At the request of the Times Free Press, Shannon Galyons second graders at Silverdale Baptist Academy recently tried out four popular egg-coloring kits. Staff Photo by Jessica Lowry Emily Anderson of Shannon Galyon's second grade class

Staff Reports Candidates across southeast Tennessee turned in qualifying petitions Thursday to run for public office. People seeking state House and Senate seats will run in the Aug. 3 party primary elections and those winners will face off in

Contributed PhotoPermit & Fuel Tax Services of Chattanooga recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. First row, from left, are owner Nelda Ward, employee Cindy Cordell, Sally Adams, Chattanooga Brick & Tile, the second customer; second

Judge Buddy Perry sentenced Rheubin Taylor II to four years - 12 months on house arrest and three years on probation - for the post-Strut shooting that killed 20-year-old Tory Hardy and wounded two others. A Franklin County jury of seven women

By Michael DavisStaff WriterFormer Red Bank mayor and current city commissioner Howard Cotter said hes ready to move from local to state government as he seeks the House District 27 seat.Mr. Cotter, 62, a retired educator and businessman, is

A Chattanooga man who was shot in the head during a home invasion earlier this week died at Erlanger hospital today.Casey Woods, 31, was taken off life support today, police said.His girlfriend was shot in the leg and was treated and released from

Braves win after Dodgers blow leadBy JOHN NADELAP Sports WriterLOS ANGELES (AP) - Ryan Langerhans hit a two-out ground-rule double in the eighth to drive in the go-ahead run, and the Atlanta Braves beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 9-8 Wednesday

The following candidates have qualified with the Hamilton County Election Commission to run for these races: State House District 26: Gerald McCormick (R) State House District 27: Howard Cotter (R), Richard Floyd (R), Bill Lusk (D) State House

Media General Inc. of Richmond, Va., today announced that it plans to sell its CBS-affiliate, WDEF-TV, Channel 12, in Chattanooga.The companys planned sale of the Chattanooga station comes as the firm said it plans to spend $600 million to buy four

Filed by Anne Braly Where can you go in Chattanooga to find authentic Mexican food? I recently had a great lunch at La Rulleta on 23rd Street. They had the most remarkable guacamole Ive ever had. And the shrimp fajita was great. The menu

By Ian BerryStaff WriterThe Hamilton County Commission will seek a meeting with officials involved in the emissions testing program, Commission Chairman Larry Henry said today.For at least the fourth time in the past sixth months, commissioners

By Brian LazenbyStaff WriterJurors are scheduled to begin deliberating Thursday in the federal trial of a McMinnville real estate appraiser accused of inflating the value of a lumber mill owned by state Sen. Jerry Cooper.James B. Jimmy Passons, 61,

By Stephen HargisAssistant Sports Editor After 20 years, Rick May will no longer be the girls basketball coach at Boyd-Buchanan. May will remain on the faculty as a middle school teacher. We decided we would agree to disagree on this and the

Filed by Steve Barrett I derive great and surprisingly guilt-free satisfaction from the fact that two California teams lost this years biggest collegiate athletic prizes: USC succumbed to Texas in football in charmingly heartbreaking fashion. And

By Bob Gary Jr.Staff Writer Alma Miller, who has owned and operated Northside Lunch for nearly 40 years, said today that she will close the business and retire in June. Im just tired and worn out, said Ms. Miller, whos in my 60s and planning to

Filed by Nikole Dugger Every little girl has to have a dream.After my pediatrician informed me that he drove a Toyota pickup and that simply becoming a physician did not entitle one to a Ferrari, my interest shifted to the journalistic realm.And

WEEK 11 Check tfponline.com each Wednesday to see how the Times Free Press staff guess-perts ranked Tuesday nights American Idol performances. Well predict who we think will be in Wednesday nights bottom three and who will get the boot.Emily

By Andy SherNashville Bureau NASHVILLE Gov. Phil Bredesen officially announced today he will run for a second four-year term, telling supporters that he is proud of what has been accomplished. Ive had a lot of issues to deal with, and probably a

Filed by Donnie Jenkins Apple this week announced the release of Boot Camp software, which allows a user to natively run Window XP on an Intel Mac. This is great news, because many of us want to be able to choose between booting Mac OS or Windows

The Associated PressLOS ANGELES Brad Penny pitched five strong innings, J.D. Drew hit a two-run homer and Los Angeles beat the Atlanta Braves 5-4 on a rainy Tuesday night for Grady Littles first victory as the Dodgers manager. Penny allowed five

Check tfponline.com each Wednesday morning to see how the Times Free Press staff guess-perts ranked Tuesday nights American Idol performances. Well predict who we think will be in Wednesday nights bottom three and who will get the boot. Emily

Filed by Anne Braly Where can you go in Chattanooga to find authentic Mexican food? I recently had a great lunch at La Rulleta on 23rd Street. They had the most remarkable guacamole Ive ever had. And the shrimp fajita was great. The menu included

By Brian LazenbyStaff Writer During opening statements today in the federal trial of a real estate appraiser accused of illegally inflating the value of property owned by state Sen. Jerry Cooper, the prosecutor said multiple state officials pulled

By Andy SherNashville BureauNASHVILLE Saying that Tennesseans need a clear choice, state Sen. Jim Bryson, R-Franklin, announced Tuesday that he will seek the GOP gubernatorial nomination in the race against Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen. The

By Nikole DuggerStaff Writer Local leaders learned today at U.S. Xpress Enterprises that, when it comes to 18-wheel trucks, safe driving means more than not tailgating.Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey and Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield were

By Edward Lee Pitts Washington Bureau Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., said today that he will continue to push for a final vote on immigration legislation by Friday. Sen. Frist is pushing legislation that focuses on border security

The Flaming LipsFiled by M. Trevor Higgins First: This is a headphone album, plain and simple. Im not talking iPod earbuds while walking to class headphones. Im talking about big, fat, 1970s headphones with a thick, spiraled cord running to the

Filed by staff writer Herman WangPolice officers arent exempt from feeding parking meters when they park the squad cars in metered spaces, unless theyre on assignment.As for whether Tuesdays Police Promotional Assessment at the Sheraton Read House

By Stephen HargisAssistant Sports EditorMcCallie School has named Dan Wadley as its new varsity basketball coach.Wadley had been at Tennessee Temple High School for 26 years, coaching girls basketball for 15 seasons and the boys program the last

See tomorrows Chattanooga Times Free Press for full coverage.

Cleveland BureauCLEVELAND, Tenn. - Some Red Hill Valley residents in southern Bradley County voiced their objections Tuesday night to four chicken houses planned to be built near their homes.The homeowners told the Bradley County Planning

By Brian LazenbyStaff WriterFederal prosecutors rested their case today in the federal trial of a McMinnville real estate appraiser accused of conspiring with state Sen. Jerry Cooper to fraudulently inflate the value of a lumber mill the lawmaker

The Hamilton County Industrial Development Board today approved tax breaks related to new facilities by T-Mobile and Steel Warehouse Inc. T-Mobiles new call center received $1.25 million in property tax savings over six years, according to

NAME: Desmond T. Doss Sr. BORN: Feb. 7, 1919HOMETOWN: Lynchburg, Va.WIVES: Dorothy Doss (deceased), 1942-1991; Frances Doss, 1993-2006

Filed by Donnie Jenkins My column today discusses the PVR, a modern recording miracle. In my podcast I'll be expanding somewhat on PVRs and especially on how to choose a DVD recorder you plan to use as a PVR, as well as a generic recording device.

Bradley County searchers today recovered the body of a teen who fell into Mouse Creek on Sunday, authorities said. Timothy Luke Hawkins, 14, was fishing with friends when he fell into the rain-swollen creek, according to a Sheriff's Department

Brian LazenbyStaff WriterAn Alabama couple pleaded guilty today in federal court to charges related to a land deal they made with a real estate appraiser and state Sen. Jerry Cooper, D-Smartt.Anthony Clement Auyer, and his wife, Theresa Auyer,

By Herman WangStaff WriterA city internal audit report alleges a South Chattanooga Recreation Center manager who was fired in January on suspicion of fraud embezzled at least $22,000.According to the audit dated March 31, Michael Lowman, 38, who is

Filed by Michael DavisThe Southeast Tennessee Development District has named Rep. Bo Watson, R-Hixson, its Legislator of the Year.The development district assists with regional planning, economic development and other services. It serves Bledsoe,

Filed by Ian BerryAt the end of each Hamilton County Commission meeting, each commissioner is given the chance to make announcements on whatever topic they like. Sometimes, the announcements make news, such as when Curtis Adams first questioned

Filed by Ward GossettA little more than three weeks into the season and it looks like crunch time already as teams jockey for postseason position.East Ridge plays at Chattanooga Christian and Hixson meets Notre Dame at Engel Stadium today in

Two fellow Medal of Honor recipients were among more than 500 people who paid their last respects to World War II hero Desmond T. Doss Sr. this afternoon at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Mr. Doss, the first conscientious objector to receive

James B. and Betty-Jo Ozmer Stephenson were honored with a surprise reception celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary on Sunday, April 1, at First-Centenary United Methodist Church. The Stephensons have four children, seven grandchildren and

DOSS, DESMOND T.Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Medical Detachment, 307th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Urasoe Mura, Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, April 29- May 21, 1945. Entered service at: Lynchburg,

Former Ringgold High School athlete Michael Keefe has been granted a release from the wrestling program at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. A three-time NCAA tournament qualifier, Keefe finished fifth in the 2005 national tournament,

A Chattanooga man is in critical condition after being shot in the head and a woman is recovering from being shot in the shoulder today after an early morning home invasion at an East Chattanooga home, police said.Three suspects, including at least

Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen has asked President Bush to declare Dyer and Gibson counties federal disaster areas after tornadoes and storms left at least 23 people dead in the state late Sunday and early Monday.Our first priority is helping those

Civil War 1,522World War I 119World War II 464Korean War 132Vietnam War 245War on Terror 1 Source: Home of Heroes Web site

Jim Vincent, a former state representative, and Charles Riggs, former Rhea County 911 director, both confirmed today they would not run to succeed state Rep. Bo Watson, R-Hixson.Ive already got into my retirement, and Im enjoying it, Mr. Vincent

George Masons Cinderella slipper finally fell off. The Florida Gators beat the Patriots 73-58 today in the first game of the NCAA Final Four at Indianapolis, ending the most improbable run in NCAA tournament history. The Gators will play for its

By Ian Berry Staff Writer Hamilton Countys vehicle emissions testing program began one year ago, but thousands of people havent gone along for the ride, records show. The Hamilton County clerks office registered 20,290 fewer vehicles in 2005 than

George Masons Cinderella slipper finally fell off. The Florida Gators beat the Patriots 73-58 today in the first game of the NCAA Final Four at Indianapolis, ending the most improbable run in NCAA tournament history. The Gators will play for its