Latest news with #PigeonForge
Fox News
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
‘The Dukes of Hazzard' actor Rick Hurst dead at 79
Richard (Rick) Hurst, an actor known for his role as the endearing Deputy Cletus Hogg in "The Dukes of Hazzard" is dead. He was 79. News of Hurst's death was confirmed to Fox News Digital by his co-star Ben Jones, who played Cooter Davenport in the popular series. Hurst died on Thursday afternoon. "Rick was a great guy," Jones shared in his statement. "Our show has been an ongoing success for 40 years or so, and Rick was a big part of that … it was very shocking and hurtful to hear his passing. He was just with us last week, and it was unexpected." 'DUKES OF HAZZARD' ACTOR PROTECTED CO-STAR CATHERINE BACH ON RISE TO FAMEJones continued, "He was a great human being … good-hearted… generous … always a friend I would stick up for… he was in the business of making people happy. He was a wonderful comic and comic actor." The cause of death is unknown at this time. He also shared a statement on Cooter's Pigeon Forge Facebook page – a "Dukes of Hazzard" themed museum owned by Jones. "It doesn't seem right that Rick Hurst passed away this afternoon. When something so unexpected happens, it is 'harder to process', as the current expression goes," Jones wrote."I have known Rick for over 45 years and there wasn't a minute of that time that he didn't leave me smiling or laughing. Sure, he was a professional comedian, but mostly he just had a heart as big as Texas," his heartfelt tribute continued. The statement continued in part, "We have always thought of our Cooter's friends as 'Hazzard Nation', Well, Hazzard Nation is sure going to miss Rick Hurst down here around 'Cooters', but his presence will always be near us. Rest in Peace, old friend!" "The Dukes of Hazzard" actor's death comes one week before he was set to make an appearance at a fan event in Tennessee, Fox News Digital has learned. Tributes continue to pour in, including from Hurst's "Dukes of Hazzard" co-star John Schneider. "I just this moment heard about the passing of dear Rick Hurst, a.k.a. Cletus Hogg. You were remarkable force for humanity, sanity and comedy my friend. Heaven is a safer and more organized place with you in it. We'll keep the race going and people laughing until we meet again! Love you," he wrote about his dear friend on Facebook. Hurst was born in Houston, Texas, and played the role of Deputy Cletus Hogg in "The Dukes of Hazzard" in the late 1970s. He later reprised his role throughout the 1980s. His other film credits include "Steel Magnolias" and "In the Line of Fire." Hurst has several television show appearances, including "Sanford and Son," "The Partridge Family," "M*A*S*H," "Gunsmoke" and "The Bob Newhart Show." The actor was married to Katherine Shelley Weir from 1981 until 1991, and his first wife, Catherine Kaniecki, from 1969 until 1979. Hurst is survived by two sons, Ryan and Collin. Ryan was born in June 1976 and is the son of Hurst and Kaniecki. Hurst welcomed Collin later with his second wife, Weir. Both sons followed in their father's acting footsteps, as Ryan appeared in "Sons of Anarchy" and Collin reprised his role in "Dukes" in 1997 and 2000.
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
5 Cheap Cities To Live In To Feel Like You're Always on Vacation
Living a vacation lifestyle can feel out of reach for your budget, especially if it involves constantly traveling to a new destination. But what if you lived in a vacation spot or at least nearby? You could create a round-the-clock vacation dream. Check Out: Read Next: Explore some affordable cities that put vacation living within reach. Beach lovers looking for a spot to permanently vacation might find exactly what they are looking for in Myrtle Beach. The beachside town offers easy access to the ocean and a slew of fun activities to try, including antique shopping and mini golf. The cost of living in Myrtle Beach is 9.6% lower than the national average. On average, homes are worth $324,570 in this beachside haven, which is significantly lower than the national average of $367,969. Explore More: For anyone seeking a full-time mountain retreat with easy access to services, Knoxville could be the right spot. Not only is Knoxville's cost of living lower than the national average, but its location also makes it easy to enjoy the mountainous region. Knoxville residents will find themselves just an hour away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which has seemingly endless outdoor adventures available. Additionally, Pigeon Forge, complete with Dollywood, is under an hour from Knoxville. Home values in Knoxville are an average of $368,490, putting them on par with the national average. New Orleans is a bustling city filled with music and culture. For anyone considering a move, you might be surprised to learn that this mecca of southern charm has a cost of living only 1.6% higher than the national average. If moving from a more expensive city, New Orleans might feel more affordable. Within New Orleans, you'll find an endless selection of top-notch restaurants to try and a lively music scene to keep the vacation vibes going constantly. On average, home values in New Orleans are $245,364, which is over $100,000 below the national average, possibly putting homeownership in reach for you. The cost of living in Tampa is slightly above the national average. While you could potentially live in Tampa for less, close proximity to the beach might give you the feeling of a permanent vacation. Plus, those who love theme parks will need to drive only around an hour and a half or take the train into Orlando to visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and the city's other major attractions. In terms of a home purchase, the average home value in Tampa is $379,156, which is around $10,000 higher than the national average. For those who want to spend more time visiting theme parks, Altamonte Springs offers an attractive option. It's less than an hour's drive to Walt Disney World or Universal Studios. If you want to take a trip out to the Florida coast, Cape Canaveral is approximately an hour away. But the Orlando suburb boasts a below-average cost of living for a family of four. If entering the housing market, expect the average home price to fall at $308,761, which is around $60,000 less than the national average. Vacation living might be within reach if you are willing to make a move. Before jumping into a particular place, consider giving it a test run to confirm you like what it has to offer. Editor's note: All cost-of-living figures were sourced from BestPlaces, and all home values were sourced from Zillow. More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Says Trump's Executive Order To Lower Medication Costs Has a 'Real Shot' -- Here's Why This article originally appeared on 5 Cheap Cities To Live In To Feel Like You're Always on Vacation
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Grown-up fun in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg: Moonshine tasting, thrill rides, poolside cocktails
Who says the Smokies are just for the kids? Grown folks can have just as much fun and get their adrenaline fix in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. From moonshine tastings to mountainside ziplining, there's no shortage of things to do that don't involve chasing toddlers or standing in line for the kiddie rides. Whether you want to soak up the scenery on a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, scream your way down a water slide or ride a mountain coaster, there are plenty of ways for adults to play, too. Here are some fun ideas for adults looking to eat, sip, shop and thrill their way through the Smokies. The new Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster will have your adrenaline pumping like no other mountain coaster, according to the website. The attraction opens June 20 and is the only mountain coaster in the United States with side-by-side tracks, letting you compete as you zoom down the mountainside. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster is the first alpine mountain coaster in the world with four uplifts, according to its website. The ride features Smoky Mountains views, 360-degree turns and several tunnels. With over a mile of track, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is the longest downhill ride in the United States, according to the website. The Goat Coaster at Goats on the Roof goes through the East Tennessee hills. Keep a lookout for the goats on the property as you go down. You can also feel the mountain breeze through twists and turns on Ripley's Mountain Coaster and Moonshine Mountain Coaster. At each coaster, riders can control the speed of the vehicles, which can reach up to around 30 miles per hour. Vehicles can seat up to two people. The prices range from $15 to $18. Addresses: Goats on the Roof | 1341 Wears Valley Road, Pigeon Forge Moonshine Mountain Coaster | 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg Ripley's Mountain Coaster | 386 Parkway, Gatlinburg Rocky Top Mountain Coaster | 2940 Veterans Blvd., Pigeon Forge Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster | 867 Wears Valley Road, Pigeon Forge Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster | 115 Conner Heights Road, Pigeon Forge There are several dinner shows in Pigeon Forge. Many are part of the Dollywood Company and offer the chance to enjoy a multi-course feast while being entertained by horses, acrobats or pirates. Alcohol is available before the shows start. This year, Pirates Voyage introduced a new 'South Pacific Celebration' act. Searching for treasure, the pirates meet a group of native Polynesian islanders who welcome them with drums, songs, vibrant costumes and even fire. Stampede is celebrating its 38th season with majestic horses and experienced equestrians, music and storytelling, comedy, colorful butterflies, acrobatics and a four-course meal. The show also features special effects and a new take on a classic Dolly Parton songs. At the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud, watch the longest-running family feud unfold with singing, dancing and fighting cousins. And be prepared; if you sit in the front row, you might get splashed amid the chaos! The two-hour show at the Comedy Barn Theater features comedians, jugglers, ventriloquists, live music and more. Neither a full course meal nor alcohol is available at this show, but you can pick up an array of snacks at the concession stand. More information about each show is available at Address: Comedy Barn | 2775 Parkway, Pigeon Forge Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud | 119 Music Road, Pigeon Forge Pirates Voyage | 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge Stampede | 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge Beat the heat at a water park like Dollywood's Splash Country or Soaky Mountain. Both have thrilling water rides, refreshing pools and live music. Rafter's Rage opened in May at Soaky Mountain. The six-person ride starts roughly eight stories in the air, spans 825 feet and sends riders zooming down the slide at speeds of 19 mph. Or you could just spend your water park day relaxing poolside in a cabana or underneath a canopy. Cabanas at Soaky Mountain can be rented as low as $50, but price depends on the day of the week. Cabana prices are higher on Fridays and the weekends. Canopies at Splash Country start at $80. Tickets: $55 (Splash Country); $53 (Soaky Mountain) Address: Splash Country | 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge Soaky Mountain | 175 Gists Creek Road Sevierville Hikers should explore the trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park has over 150 official trails. Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Chimney Tops, Charlies Bunion and Rainbow Falls are a few of the especially popular trails, according to National Park Service. Soak in the hot tub, relax in pool and have a few cocktails at the Paloma Swim Club at the Wayback hotel, one of the best hotels in the world. The pool club is open 8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, and - in keeping with the hotel's retro 1970s theme - there's a disco pool party 5-9 p.m. every Saturday until Aug. 9. Entry to the pool party is $25, but free for overnight hotel guests. The Spicy Pomegranate Paloma and Mexican Mule are a couple of the cocktails on the menu. It's 5 o'clock somewhere! Escape to the islands at Margaritaville resort, where you can raise a glass and take a bite. The tropical-themed bar and restaurant is inspired by the philosophy of musician Jimmy Buffett. The Pigeon Forge location has multiple bars and dining spaces, a concert stage for live music, a large deck the overlooks Little Pigeon River and an oversized fire pit. Hours: Margaritaville | 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday Address: Margaritaville | 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge Wayback Hotel | 2760 Parkway, Pigeon Forge The newest ride won't be open until at least 2026, but there's much fun to be had at Dollywood. The theme park is one of the most popular attractions in East Tennessee and the world. Big Bear Mountain opened in 2023 and is the longest coaster at theme park. With speeds up to 48 mph, it takes riders through hills, turns, tunnels and even waterfalls. Other fast coasters there include Lightning Rod, Tennessee Tornado and Thunderhead. Tickets: $92 for adults and $82 for children and seniors Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge There's an island in Pigeon Forge you can escape to! The Island, an entertainment shopping destination, has over 80 shops, restaurants and attractions including escape rooms, a seven-dimension adventure game and an arcade. There are boozy stops, too, including Margaritaville and Ole Smoky Distillery. The Mountain Mile and Tower Shops is a unique shopping and dining experience in Pigeon Forge that embraces the outdoors. You can relax or find a playful activity on the event lawn in front of the shops to enjoy. Or find your way to the tall towers to drop, launch or swing 200 feet in the air if you dare. Tanger Outlet in nearby Sevierville has major retail stores including Adidas, Coach, Crocs, Gap, Kate Spade New York, Lululemon, Nike Factory Store, Polo by Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Torrid and many more. If you're looking for more southern hospitality, Old Mill Square in Pigeon Forge might be the shopping spot for you. There are specialty shops full of authentic or handcrafted Appalachian flavors, pottery, souvenirs and other items. Address: The Island | 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge Mountain Mile and Tower Shops | 2655 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge Old Mill Square | 175 Old Mill Avenue, Pigeon Forge Tanger Outlet | 1645 Parkway, Suite 960, Sevierville Sugarlands Distilling Company is one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg and is a top-rated distillery experience worldwide, according to TripAdvisor. The distillery produces award-winning moonshine, rum, cream liqueurs, rye whiskey and vodka. Moonshine tastings are $5 person with 12 flavors. Flavors are changed daily. Other top distilleries and wineries to check out include Ole Smoky Distillery, and Junction 35 Spirits, both having tastings starting at $5 per person. Tennessee Homemade Wines has free tastings of its southern sweet wines, and Tennessee Shine Company has free moonshine and wine tastings, too. Address: Junction 35 Spirits | 2655 Teaster Lane, Suite 280, Pigeon Forge; 1645 Parkway, Suite 685, Sevierville Ole Smoky Distillery | 903 Parkway, Suite 128, Gatlinburg; 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge; 650 Parkway, Gatlinburg Sugarlands Distillery | 805 Parkway, Gatlinburg Tennessee Homemade Wines | 1645 Parkway, Suite 950, Sevierville; 643 Parkway, Gatlinburg Tennessee Shine Company | 3435 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge; 519 Parkway, Gatlinburg; 1424 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Sevierville; 3303 Wears Valley Road, Sevierville Board the Titanic and experience what it was like to walk the hallways, parlors, cabins and Grand Staircase of the famous luxury liner. The museum has over 400 artifacts and items from the ship and its passengers worth more than $4.5 million. The newest items include a pocket watch found on the body of Isidor Straus after the sinking, along with the only letter his wife, Ida, sent from the Titanic. There's also an exhibit dedicated to the 1997 movie 'Titanic' that features the iconic wood panel that characters Rose and Jack clung to at the end of the film. Many of the Titanic exhibits are interactive, including shoveling coal in the boiler room, experiencing the sloping decks as the ship sank and reaching into 28-degree water. Tickets: $39.99. It is recommended to reserve tickets and a time at Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge Embrace your wild side and hop on the longest continuous zipline in the country! MegaZip at WildSide, a mountain bike and UTV park in Pigeon Forge, is over a mile long and has descension of nearly 1,100 feet. The exhilarating adventure offers a truly unique way to take in the Smoky Mountain views. Smoky Mountain Ziplines has seven zipline canopy tours that allow you to zip from one position to another, all while being under forest canopies. Other ziplining opportunities in the area include CLIMB Works (Gatlinburg), Legacy Mountain Ziplines (Sevierville) and Wahoo Ziplines (Sevierville). Prices: $70-$110 Address: CLIMB Works | 155 Branam Hollow Road, Gatlinburg Legacy Mountain Ziplines | 800 Legacy Vista Drive, Sevierville MegaZip at WildSide | 1099 Laurel Lick Road. Pigeon Forge Smoky Mountain Ziplines | 509 Mill Creek Road, Pigeon Forge Wahoo Ziplines | 605 Stockton Drive, Sevierville Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email On X, formerly known as Twitter @dturner1208. Support strong local journalism by subscribing at This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for adults this summer
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Yahoo
‘Our next police officers' Pigeon Forge Police Department launches first-ever junior police academy
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Pigeon Forge Police Department wrapped up its first-ever junior police academy for children between 12 and 16 years old. The class serves as a way to get the children involved with law enforcement early. The group of 24 learned everything from de-escalation tactics to how to properly put on handcuffs. East Tennessee food pantries brace for potential SNAP cuts amidst rising food costs 'What we're doing right here is we are looking at these young men and women in our community, and it's a recruitment tool,' Detective Donnie Mashburn said. 'We are getting them prepped, getting them started, and an honest look at what we do every day, so we are excited about that, and hopefully, maybe they'll be some of our next police officers.' The Junior Cadets went through training exercises that simulated what police officers have to do often. Some of that included hand-to-hand combat, which in this case served as a lesson in self-defense, clearing rooms, and taking a written test that went over everything they learned this week. Mashburn was right in the middle of a lot of the training that went on. He said it was great seeing the children be able to have fun while learning. Remainder of Bonnaroo cancelled due to weather 'Just teaching them so many things. They love the defensive tactics, and that's near and dear to my heart,' Mashburn said. 'In talking to them, it's not about fighting, it's about taking care of yourself and defending yourself, but if you have to, you know how to defend yourself properly. That's been a special topic for me.' Mashburn said he put his body on the line for one of the taser learning sessions today, hoping the children, seeing what happened instill a respect for law enforcement and show them not to run from the law. 'That tazing does not feel good,' Mashburn explained. 'They saw that, so they know not to run from the law, do what we tell you, it was neat to see that.' Honoring Charlie: Knoxville community tees off to remember young golfer's selfless spirit The week-long academy ended with an obstacle course and awards for those involved. Mashburn told 6 News he's grateful they were able to put on an event like this and thankful for the help of Sevier County Cares and the Sevier County Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs for helping with the academy. We are told the police department hopes to put on more of these academies in the future. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Independent
02-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Crash on pedestrian-heavy main strip in Tennessee tourist town of Gatlinburg injures 7
Seven people, including two pedestrians, were injured in a multivehicle crash in the Tennessee tourist town of Gatlinburg on Sunday. The accident occurred at about 4:20 p.m., when a minivan travelling through the middle of the pedestrian-heavy downtown area accelerated unexpectedly, striking a person in a crosswalk before colliding with several other vehicles, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol. One of the struck vehicles hit a roadside sign that fell and injured a second pedestrian. Five other people inside two different vehicles were injured as well. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating, and early indications suggest the accident may have been caused by a medical emergency, according to the agency. Gatlinburg is located the mountains of East Tennessee. It sits between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the country's most visited national park, and Pigeon Forge, home of Dollywood.
