If Not Now; When?
By Henry Piarrot
“There are risks and costs to a program of action.
But they are far less than the long-range risks and costs of comfortable inaction.” - John Fitzgerald Kennedy
In recent years, Sevierville has enjoyed the fruit of a growing tourism industry inspired by the immense popularity of the Great Smoky Mountains. As a result, almost 50% of the city’s businesses are directly supported by America’s interest in our area. Today, there are over 2,000 hotel/motel rooms in Dolly‘s
hometown, contributing over a half million tax dollars in support of the local government. Consequently, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce, the continued efforts of the Sevierville Lodging Association are as important as ever. But, finding a president to lead SLA in 2007 was no easy task. That is, until Debbie Newman, long time administrative assistant for Comfort Inn
Apple Valley reluctantly, though selflessly answered the call.
Born and raised in Sevierville, Deborah Elaine Ownby graduated from Sevierville High School in 1981. As a child she often dreamed of being a teacher, but, after one semester at East Tennessee State University, the hometown girl returned for Christmas break in 1981 and soon became engaged to Kenny Newman, a young man she had known most of her life, on New Year’s Eve. The new couple married in the spring of 1982. Today, their two daughters, Brittney and Kendra are both in college. Kenny is the maintenance supervisor for his family owned and operated Best Western Plaza in Pigeon Forge.
Debbie is the youngest of the late Roy and Mary Ownbys’ three daughters. The general manager of the Comfort Inn Apple Valley and Newman’s boss for the past decade, is her big
sister Linda Russell. Her other sister, Shelma Rayfield is the housekeeping inspector for the charming 111 room property.
Debbie’s resume reflects a variety of experiences and portrays a professional consistency few people can truthfully document. She spent seven years as Judge Rex Henry Ogle’s secretary, four years as a teaching assistant at Pigeon Forge Primary School and ten years in her present capacity. Last November, Debbie Newman received the Chamber Friendship Award from the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce.
Without having to go too far off the main road between Sevierville and her sister cities Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, you have access to numerous places to shop and play. Theaters, hotels, restaurants and attractions work together for the express purpose of building a better future for our children. Life is voluntary, and real Tennesseans are volunteers.
Regrettably, there are far more reasons to serve the community than there are people who are willing to do so. Those like Debbie Newman do not view volunteering as simply an act of philanthropy, it's an outstanding opportunity to improve yourself in all areas of your own life. Debbie confessed that she is a little uncomfortable being the focus of attention, for she knows that her association only exists today because of the quiet efforts of dedicated others who have done, or are currently doing the work to help their hometown grow and prosper.
Nevertheless, with great anxiety, Newman finally accepted the responsibility once she ultimately embraced the notion that it was simply her turn. She is not the first president compelled to reflect, “If not me; who? If not now; when?” If you find it is time to answer the same question for yourself, call Debbie Newman at (865) 428-1069.
“A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm.” - Unknown Norwegian playwright of the late 19th century.
Henry Piarrot is a hotel manager in Sevier County . Please send all story recommendations to henry@lifeisvoluntary.ws