NEWPORT-Cocke County Partnership President Don Hurst told members of the group's executive committee on Monday, "We can ask, but we can't force," when asked why traffic continues to be directed up I-81 to I-26, rather than Highway 25/70.

Hurst said he and Cocke County Mayor Iliff McMahan have already met with state officials regarding the Oct. 25 rockslide on I-40.

"The chief engineer will be here tomorrow," said Hurst. "This is obviously the biggest issue we are facing right now."

Hurst said immediately after the slide, "We contacted the federal folks who have already approved up to $10 million for the removal and repairs. We've met with TDOT in Nashville and learned that Tennessee will be sharing workers and equipment to help North Carolina deal with the situation."

Hurst also announced that a Town Hall meeting will be held this afternoon at 4 at City Hall prior to the City Council meeting. "At this time, business owners affected by the slide will come together to discuss the situation."

Newport/Cocke County Chamber of Commerce Director of Operations Kandee Veridal reported that Larry Rossie and Ronald Wade continue to meet with owners of small businesses on a monthly basis to offer help.

"The Christmas parade will be Nov. 28," she said, "starting at Cocke County High School. Staging begins at 11 a.m. We want to thank National Bank of Tennessee for sponsoring the Grand Marshall float."

Veridal also reminded the group that Newport Housing Authority will have open house on Nov. 20 and Ace Antiques will celebrate their first anniversary the same day with an open house from 5 to 9 p.m.

Veridal reported new membership applications from Wright's Pool & Spa, KOA Newport, Wild Bear Falls, River Terrace, CFI Inc., and Ball Construction. Twelve relocation and visitor packages have been sent from the office.

Cocke County Tourism Director Linda Lewanski reported on the recent designation of Highway 25-E as a Scenic Byway and updated the group on the project to have Hwy. 321 receive the same designation.

Lewanski reminded the group of the upcoming Christmas in the City celebration on Dec. 4.

Among the reports from Partnership groups were those from the Cocke County Health Council and American Red Cross.

Frances Miller, representing the Cocke County Health Council, announced plans for another Remote Area Medical clinic in Cocke County, this one set for May 5, 2012.

Don Ellison told the group that the Red Cross has responded to nine fires in Cocke County during the last month. "This is a high number for this time of year," he said.