Episode nine of the For the Love of Gatlinburg podcast, featuring Junior Watson, Store Manager of Food City, Gatlinburg's sole full-service grocery store, offers a rich exploration of Gatlinburg's history, community spirit, and future prospects. Junior's family has deep roots in the area, dating back to the 1700s when they settled in White Oak Flats, now known as Gatlinburg. The Watson family's seven-generation legacy in the town exemplifies the enduring connection many residents feel to this charming Smoky Mountain community. Junior's personal experiences growing up in Gatlinburg, from enjoying local treats at the Donut Fryer to encountering wildlife, paint a vivid picture of the town's evolution. The transformation of Gatlinburg from a quiet mountain town to a bustling tourist destination is discussed, highlighting the positive economic impacts and the nostalgic sentiments of some locals. The episode also delves into the significant role of Gatlinburg Pittman High School in shaping the community, boasting impressive academic and athletic achievements. Food City, under Junior's management, has become a cornerstone of community support, particularly during challenging times like the 2016 fires. The store's involvement in disaster response and community aid underscores the tight-knit nature of Gatlinburg's residents. Junior's active participation in the local Rotary Club further demonstrates his commitment to service, with initiatives ranging from flag-raising events to scholarships and community projects. This episode also touches on the resilience of Gatlinburg's community, especially in the face of tragedies like the 2016 fires. It emphasizes the unified efforts to rebuild and support affected residents, showcasing the town's strong community spirit. Looking to the future, Junior expresses hope for Gatlinburg's continued flourishing while preserving its natural beauty and community values. The episode concludes with a call to maintain pride in local heritage and community bonds, ensuring that Gatlinburg's unique charm endures for generations to come.

[0:09] Speaker B (Tom): Welcome to for the Love of Gatlinburg, the podcast where we celebrate the charm, the history and the vibrant community of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I'm your host, Tom Goodwin, and I hope you'll join me each week as I bring you stories that connect the past with the present as we explore the people that make Gatlinburg a beloved destiny nation and where every story is a piece of our mountain heritage. On today's episode, Junior Watson, the store manager of Food City, is joining me. I'm excited for you to meet Junior and to hear his story. He was born and raised here and has quite a love for this town. So join with me as we dive into the heart of Gatlinburg together. It is a beautiful day in Gatlinburg, and I am seated here with the one and only Junior Watson, the store manager of Food City. And if you've been to Gatlinburg, and I hope you have, and when you come to Gatlinburg, most likely you're going to go to Food City. And Junior has been the store manager there for quite some time. We're going to hear about his story and when his love for Gatlinburg began. So welcome, Junior. We're so glad to have you. [1:19] Speaker A (Junior): Oh, Tom. Thank you all for having me. It's such humbling experience to be here with you today and while looking out here at the. The fall setting and you know, there's just no better place to be than this morning and sitting on top of mountain, looking at the other mountains in. [1:33] Speaker B: Gatlinburg, I, I can't agree with you more. So we're excited to be on this fall crisp day. We don't know when this is going to be recording, but right now it's a, it's in the peak season, so no better time to be in Gatlinburg. So, Junior, you. You are local? Born and bred in Gatlinburg. Tried and true. Tell us about your story and your family in coming to Gatlinburg. [1:59] Speaker A: Okay. Yeah, My family moved over from Haywood County, North Carolina back in the 1700s. I guess they got run out on North Carolina is what my dad, my dad always tells me. But, you know, we've been homesteaded here for quite some time. I was born and raised right here. Went to Catons Chapel elementary into Gatlinburg Pittman High School, best high school in the state, in the country, might I add. But, you know, we, we have, my wife and I got married and right out of high school, we have three children, all went to all, one graduate of GP and two at GP Right now, my mom went to Gatlinburg Pittman High School as well. My dad went to Sevier County. We always shun him for that. Being below the tunnel, as us local people call it. But yeah, it's. It's always been home. I can't think of anywhere else to. To be. I always tell people that ask. I was born on a dirt road, turned into a shot chipped road. Now it's asphalt two lane road. But seen a lot of things over the years. But this is home. [3:06] Speaker B: That's. That's really home. 1700s. [3:09] Speaker A: Yeah. [3:10] Speaker B: So looking back at your family history, how many generations ago was that? [3:14] Speaker A: Well, I was trying to count that back, Tom, as I was driving up here. And I called my dad and asked him, and I think that's seven generations is how we best got it calculated. [3:26] Speaker B: And where did they first settle? [3:28] Speaker A: They first settled right here in White Oak Flats, as we called it back then, or they called it back then. But originally there's all kinds of stories. But my dad said he thought we got run out of Haywood, North Carolina. But who knows? I just always tell people that we found a better place to live. [3:47] Speaker B: So Gatlinburg became gatlinburg in the mid-1900s. [3:51] Speaker A: Correct. [3:51] Speaker B: Before that it was known as White Oak Flats. [3:54] Speaker A: Yes, sir. [3:54] Speaker B: So a lot of people don't know that. They think it's always been Gatlinburg. But it was White Oak Flats and, and it's right adjacent to the national park. So a lot of people homesteaded in the national park. And then when the government, you know, made the proclamation that this would be public land, then people were able to move into the city. But your family already lived in the village. [4:18] Speaker A: They did, yes, sir. [4:19] Speaker B: Do you know where their original homestead was? [4:22] Speaker A: I do not. I know a lot of times Shady Grove, which is just, you know, suburb I guess for some people would say we just call it down the road, but Shady Grove and a little place called Boogertown. I'm not sure if anybody's ever heard of that, but there is such a place and there is the road. You should come and see it if you come to town. But if you're a local, you know. [4:45] Speaker B: About Boogertown because it's a cut through. [4:48] Speaker A: That's. [4:48] Speaker B: And we don't like to tell other people, you can cut through from 321 over to Pigeon Forge. Going through Boogertown. First time I heard it, I said, what, what town is that? And it's just, it's right adjacent to Gatlinburg. [5:01] Speaker A: So I messed up and just let the cat out of the bag. [5:03] Speaker B: Yeah, well, I don't know how many people are gonna be listening. Hopefully not that many. Well, maybe hopefully a lot. [5:08] Speaker A: But if you are very narrow road. [5:10] Speaker B: And it might not show up on your gps. [5:13] Speaker A: So how fitting. Oh, we bring it up right now around Halloween, right? Yeah, that. [5:20] Speaker B: That is awesome. So you mentioned GP and you made a statement about GP being probably the best school in the state, if not the country. Tell me about your feelings towards gp. Because so many of our guests have mentioned that the public schools here in Gatlinburg, which would surprise a lot of our visitors to know that there are people that live here full time, they raise their families and they get an incredible education. So tell me about your love for Gatlinburg, Pittman. [5:45] Speaker A: Well, if anybody knows me, they know I bleed blue and gold. Tried and true. It is the best. I think one of my fellow classmates, he was the principal up there several years and he called it the tradition of excellence. So many people that have come through there, not just educational but sports related, have gone on to be very successful in their lives. And we were just recently at a GP hall of Fame induction ceremony. And it was so, I guess humbling to me that, you know, how many people that I didn't know and that some that I did know had been so successful when they leave our little town here and how much of an impact our little school had on them. You know, most people know us for football and recently, over the past few years, we've been successful in ladies basketball and soccer has been boys soccer. [6:42] Speaker B: Won the state championship a few years, three times now. [6:45] Speaker A: I think it's every other year is what Coach Strand had said. But our baseball team, I'm a big baseball fan and love the sport. And we're kicking at the doors up there. We're trying to get everything going, but hopefully we'll get leading them the right way per se. But really, our school is most known for National Merit Scholars. I'm not sure at the number, but we have a huge number of National Merit Scholars over the years. And so many people go to college and have a lot of money. We had a guidance counsel up there, Don Bohan, and he is the sole purpose and reason a lot of folks have got their education paid for. And he recently retired and turned it over to Mr. Ms. Cantrell and she's going to continue that success. It is mind boggling when you go to graduation at how many thousands of dollars our kid receive going into college. [7:47] Speaker B: The ratio of National Merit Scholars to the student population is extraordinary. [7:53] Speaker A: It is. [7:53] Speaker B: And Mr. Bohannon was there when my wife graduated in the early 80s, and he was there for over 40 years. And as a school counselor, making a significant difference in the lives of people and really changing the trajectory of their future, because they're coming from humble, humble mountain means and salt of the earth families. And education has really made a significant difference. As you had mentioned, so many have been launched from Gatlinburg to make a significant impact on other communities. [8:23] Speaker A: Yeah, he is very strong, successful, was very successful in promoting our kids and getting them all the money they could get. And I commend him. And he's still doing well. I saw him the other night at the ceremony, and he's just kicking around. He is such a great guy, and again, one of the biggest attributes to our school up there. [8:45] Speaker B: Well, we'll get him on the podcast. We're gonna make that happen. [8:48] Speaker A: That would be fantastic, though. That would be awesome. He could tell you some stories. Stories, I'm sure. [8:53] Speaker B: Yes. I. I remember when our daughters were in eighth grade. That's when you really need to start preparing for college entrance and having a trajectory and a plan. So we met with Mr. Bohannon and had a plan for our daughters going through high school, which is just amazing that he has that kind of vision for students. You think of the Gatlinburg culture, the community. And you mentioned GP in sports. I love how you mentioned, in this same breath, really, what we're known for is academic excellence. And people would probably be surprised by that to know that this small little mountain community, Appalachian Mountain community, that had a PI Beta Phi settlement school, started in 1912 because there was no education in the area, really had mountain people that were committed to a vision for the future for their community. And so it's a. It's a real testament to those that are committed to GP and you and how you're a stalwart champion of what's going on at gp, which is just exciting. Yeah, real exciting. So as you think of your family and your beginning. So you were. You've never known living anywhere else? [10:05] Speaker A: I have not. [10:06] Speaker B: So what was it like in Gatlinburg when you were growing up? So you're 45 years old now? [10:11] Speaker A: Yes, sir. [10:12] Speaker B: So that was, like, in 1980, you were 79, you were born. [10:16] Speaker A: Yes, that's correct. [10:17] Speaker B: So tell us about Gatlinburg back in the early 80s. [10:20] Speaker A: Well, Gatlinburg was just a faint, quaint little Town. I always loved going into Gatlinburg to get a donut. It's a donut fryer and Fanny Farkle's to the corn dogs and old Smokey candy kitchen to get the candy out. [10:35] Speaker B: Are you still going those places? [10:37] Speaker A: Ah, Tom, we can't say that. My wife might be listening. She be fussing at me if, if I told all my secrets. But yeah, I, I talked again. I spoke with my dad this morning. He said now don't give away everything, you know. And I said well I just only have so much little time. [10:53] Speaker B: Well I think those places you mentioned everyone knows about and we're gonna, we have a lot of stories just even on the donut fryer that could be shared. A lot of people, fans that listen to this that love the donut fryer as well. [11:06] Speaker A: But you know, growing up, you know, I know bears is a big topic right now but when I was young there wasn't as many black bears and it was a big ordeal for me and my dad and mom. We would come to what where CC's Pizzas is now. Used to be a Kentucky fried chicken. [11:26] Speaker B: Yep. KFC right there. River Road and Stoplight 10. [11:29] Speaker A: That's right. And we would come up here of an evening. It was a big, big event for us then. You know, remember I grew up on a dirt road but we would come up here and get a bucket of chicken and we'd drive to the chimney's picnic area. [11:43] Speaker B: Love that picnic area. [11:44] Speaker A: And we would, we would sit there and eat chicken and wait for a bear to come by to get to see it because you know, normally now you could see a bear just anywhere. But back then they really stayed more back in the mountains because there wasn't as many. Now they're out of the mountains fighting for food because there isn't enough food in the mountains to feed, feed them. But you know, and that's just my opinion but, but it was a big ordeal for me. That's one of my best memories is, is sitting there waiting for that bear to come in and. [12:14] Speaker B: Did you go into the river and. [12:16] Speaker A: Oh yeah, we, we. I've. I don't know that there isn't many rocks and that I've not hopped on in that camp or the picnic area. It's, it's just kind of a special place. You know. We always, always went to Greenbrier which is right outside of, of Gatlinburg. Another good place to be. But we really enjoyed our time in the park and enjoyed seeing the bears. Of course, you know, then we didn't feed them and we didn't try to pet them or get in their face and take pictures like some others do. But they were, they were something to see and still are, Tom. This is their home. But that's some of the best memories, you know, back then for me is as a child is coming to see the bears. You know, biggest thing that's changed from then to now is all the people. And I know that's a good thing. But at times, you know, back then in January and some of the off seasons, you wouldn't hardly see anybody. But now we're busy year round, which is great. You know, really good for community, but for us locals, it's kind of sad sometimes to see it, but. But that's okay too. You know, times have to change. [13:25] Speaker B: That's right. I know my wife would mention that Gatlinburg basically closed down after Thanksgiving until May. Yep. There was not a lot of tourism, a lot, not a lot of traffic. And then, you know, 50 some years ago over mountain opened and exciting things that are happening there. And then you've got all the other attractions in Dollywood and Dollywood's exception extending their, their, their days every year. And so that brings more people in. But you mentioned, you know, the influx of people. Those are tourist people. That's the bread and butter that's we love. [13:58] Speaker A: It's our livelihood. [13:59] Speaker B: That's our livelihood. And you know that very well. Being a grocer. [14:02] Speaker A: Yes, I do. [14:03] Speaker B: You are the grocer of Gatlinburg. And I remember back when there wasn't a Food City, we'd have to go to battles Correct Food Market. And I'm so, so thankful when Food City showed up. And not only as a grocery store, but you are. Your company is so committed to the well being of this community. And tell me, look, we don't pitch businesses all that much on this podcast, but it's really a part of your Food City is an integral part of our community. [14:30] Speaker A: It sure is. [14:31] Speaker B: So share with us a little bit more about Food City and its engagement with Gatlinburg and the community. [14:35] Speaker A: Yep. We opened our store here in O2. Les McSwain was the store manager then. He was actually the gentleman that hired me back in 96 for Food City. And fast forward to 2008. He got promoted up to district manager and I was fortunate enough to come to the Gatlinburg Food City there in October of 08. So, you know, I guess we're going on what, that's 16 years now, being there We've been through a lot. We've been through, you know, 08, the recession and the fires and Covid and everything. And Food City has always been really good and really out in the community. We just recently helped with Mountain Hope Shepherd Clinic down the street here. Tom just opened up, and, you know, I was telling them down there, they asked me to say a few words, and. And I got up there, and I was kind of talking about Food City, and, you know, I said, a lot of people say we're the only food, you know, only grocery store in town, you know, And I said, by gosh, yeah, we are. And I'm proud of it. Proud of the company that I work for. We've been very, you know, always into the community, whether it be with the fires and just. Just heard recently the tragic floods that's happened over in North Carolina. But I couldn't work for a better company as being so out there in the community. As a lot of people say, it just. It blows my mind. It really does. But we couldn't do that without our customers. You know, our customers helped foot the bill. I mean, that's that. And, you know, we say a lot of times, you know, we'll get new associates or new employees at the store, and they'll mess up or something, and I'll get on to them. They say, well, what are you so worried about? We're the only store in town. And I said, well, if that was our last customer, how would you like that to feel? So I had a mentor that taught me. He said, you treat every customer like it's your last. And, you know, we take pride and taking care of our customers here in Gallatinburg, which are mostly visitors. Yes. But we do have a strong local business, and I know they get aggravated about it a lot of times, but I'm sorry about that. But like I said earlier, the times have changed, and we got a lot of tourists here, and we got to meet their needs as well, but couldn't be a better company, you know, as far as is a community. Our CEO actually owns. Owns a house up here now on ski mountain, not far from where we're sitting here. Tom, he just recently purchased some land and had one built. I guess it was some of Mike's prior properties that he had that I guess happened, you know, that were in the fire or whatnot. But we're really. We're really deep, just as deep as I am in Gatlinburg. Food City is that deep in making this home. I mean, it's. [17:51] Speaker B: It shows yeah, it's not just a business, but you're engaged with the community and I think that is what makes so many businesses in Gatlinburg stand out. Sure, it's, it's economics and you need to make a profit. You need to provide a service. But the ones that really make a significant difference are the ones that are engaged in the community. And you really set a standard of being engaged. You're on so many different boards. You've contributed so much back to the community. You're with the Gatlinburg Chamber. You're a board. You've been a board member. I'm not sure if you're currently serving. [18:26] Speaker A: I am not, but I, I am on the ballot for this November, so we'll see how that goes. [18:31] Speaker B: Okay. [18:31] Speaker A: Okay. [18:32] Speaker B: And so you serve a gp, the. The new clinic. What are some of the other volunteers? You're in Rotary. [18:39] Speaker A: Yeah, I was waiting for you to say that. [18:41] Speaker B: You're a Rotarian. [18:43] Speaker A: That's the biggest thing that I really enjoy is our Rotary Club here in town. We are a small club, but what is it they say? It's not about quantity, it's about quality. We're in so many things that help within our community here, whether it being in scholarships or the schools or, you know, so many different non profit organizations that we, that we help. One of the biggest things that I enjoy is the flags. We put out flags for 13 holidays a year. You know, it really means a lot to me, the flags, putting those out. People say that's a lot of time. And you know, why do you do that? And it's one of those things where that I get a lot of sense of feeling that it means a lot to me to get those flags out and our businesses help sponsor that. And we take that money and put it back into the schools and scholarships and things that I mentioned earlier. [19:50] Speaker B: This episode of for the Love of Gatlinburg is sponsored by Mountain Laurel Chalets, the family owned company of choice for your cabin rentals in the smoky Mountains. Since 1972, Mountain Laurel Chalets has served thousands of visitors to the Smokies with excellent accommodations. They love treating you like family and they look forward to hosting your next trip to Gatlinburg. But I'd love our listeners to know a little bit more about Rotary International. My father in law, Ralph Egley, former president of the chapter, a Paul F. Harris scholar and great contributor. And that reflects so many of the business people within the community being Rotarians. You served as a former president. [20:35] Speaker A: I have, yes. [20:36] Speaker B: So many of Our listeners might not know what Rotary is, so maybe just give a quick pitch to that. And this is, this is an organization within our small community that has a long history of contributing back and it really reflects a lot of the characters, character and heart of Gatlinburg. [20:50] Speaker A: Rotary Club's motto, Tom, is service above self. It's really a service based club that a lot of towns and small communities have. It was founded several, several years ago. Their mission was to end polio. And I think we're down to. There's two countries that still have polio in those countries but it's very again service oriented. We meet once a week. We always have a program, a good lunch on Wednesdays. It's actually on Tuesdays. It's changed several times. Yeah, we meet it Tuesdays out on Powder Mill at the rampant Line. It's a local business there owned by Brian Papworth. We recently were at Calhoun's ever since that I started back in 2009. [21:47] Speaker B: I think Calhouns has a great conference center or little banquet hall. Banquet hall, full glass, looking out at the bar. [21:54] Speaker A: It's beautiful. Yeah, it's beautiful. And yeah, I started there in 09. Seen a lot of change there as well, Tom. You know, we had a lot of founding members there and it seems like, you know, as it gets moving on it gets to be a more younger crowd. Just like most service clubs. I mean the participation and the attendance is down. Everybody's so engaged in what we call life, I guess you could say. But we've seen a lot of things over the years. There's. But the Rotary Club is something good to be in. It gets you engaged in your community. [22:42] Speaker B: You think of so many of the people that have been involved in Rotary in our community that aren't here anymore. You know, Ken Simonis just passed away recently. It's a surprise of us all. A local banker with citizens. But I would go to the Rotary lunches with my father in law, Ralph. He had perfect attendance for 40 some years. [23:06] Speaker A: Oh yes, that's it. [23:07] Speaker B: That is a dying generation. [23:09] Speaker A: It is. [23:09] Speaker B: And that sense of loyalty and week in and week out, attending the meetings, contributing to the community, putting out the flags. [23:19] Speaker A: You said 13 events a year, 13 major holidays. [23:23] Speaker B: So there's 13 major holidays. And many of our listeners come to Gatlinburg on those holidays and they see, see those flags that those, all those flags were placed by leaders in the community that volunteered their time. And it's amazing when you have the trailer with all the flags lined up on posts, it's Almost like you got your own parade going down the parkway and putting out the flag. So you think about that older generation, some of whom are still with us, some who have passed on. What is it that you hope people understand about that salt of the earth generation, that Gatlinburg, that really we stand on their shoulders? And what are some of the qualities of that generation that you think are deeply needed within our community today? [24:05] Speaker A: Well, I mean, I think you alluded to it, Tom. It's commitment and just faith and just taking the time. You know, I guess over the years when we first started Rotary or when I first started Rotary, we didn't have, you know, cell phones. And, you know, so many times people get caught up with that. We're so accessible. I was telling somebody the other day, it just seemed like how much stuff we can get done, but we still have that much more stuff to get done. You know, my dad, he always says he was a mechanic and he says, man, if I had that phone when. When I was working that. That I could have got, you know, I could have got a lot of this stuff figured out, got done quicker. And, you know, because you can just Google about anything, YouTube, anything. [24:56] Speaker B: You hope your mechanic's not doing that, though. Maybe they're creating the YouTube videos. [25:01] Speaker A: My wife, she fixes everything at home off YouTube. Yeah, I came home the other day. [25:07] Speaker B: How's that going? [25:08] Speaker A: Yeah, it's going good. I came home the other day and she had the dryer apart. I said, honey, what are you doing? She said, well, I'm fixing this. It's quit working. I said, well, okay. I just. When I just left her alone and you know, again, you know, the cell phones are kings anymore, but, you know, it's just a self. You know, it's a sense of good feeling with any club that you participate in. It's a togetherness. It's, you know, it's a sense of accomplishment. You know, you're all working together for one bitter good. And you know, we fight and fuss just like all clubs, but, you know, there isn't anything that any of us wouldn't do for the other. So, I mean, it's. But. But, you know, like you said, we have lost a lot of the founding members and we. We do miss a lot of them. Frank Moore. One comes one to mine. He. He just had to recently not. Not participate in the club anymore. But I call him often and check on him and he's doing well. He lives down on Beach Branch and. And Bob Wachle, he still comes around. I know he's kind of like your father in law, Ralph there. They started here on the mountain renting places and chalets and things of that nature. But I could always remember Ralph. He loved the Boy Scouts. Yes, he loved the Boy Scouts and our Rotary actually charters the boy scouts here. Stroop111 and Darrell Roberts and I helped do. Help found that and take care of those things. But it's honored me for to try to try to even live up to Ralph's legacy that he left. It means a lot to us. It really does. [26:59] Speaker B: And that is the heart of Gatlinburg. The people and the legacy. And as I mentioned before, we're standing on some, some really broad shoulders. We are men and women who are, who are committed to this community, sacrificed greatly. And so many of our guests that come, there's a lot of attractions, there's a lot of fun, there's a lot of beauty. And we love, we love to host our guests. And like you said, it's, it's, it's business and it's, it's our privilege to do that, the sense of hospitality. But we so long for our guests to understand the heart and soul behind Gatlinburg and what we hope that would continue on to the next generation. So you're, you're a leader of this next generation. You're influencing. You've got children that graduated from GP2 that are in GP now. When you think of the future of Gatlinburg, what is your hope? What is your, what is your, what are your hopes for Gatlinburg? [27:56] Speaker A: Well, I just hope that we don't, we don't forget where we came from because like, you know, like we've talked a lot about today, Tom. It's, you know, us mountain people, as I call it, have always just helped each other. It, you know, and some of the things that you said that I do and I, that I participate in and I don't think anything about it, I just do it, you know, I love helping people and you know, it's not. There's no I in team, I guess is what a lot of people say in sports. Well, there's, there's no I in Gatlinburg. I mean, it takes us all to pitch in and stick to our roots and keep us grounded, I guess is the best way to put it, you know, because it is what made this such a special place. It is the people. You know, we go on vacation quite a bit. You know, us mountain people go to the beach and mountains. But you know, you always Go different places. And, you know, I've traveled everywhere, but there is no better place than here as far as the. Just the home nature of people and being so friendly. And, you know, it's just, you know, there's thousands of people come in the store up there each day, and, you know, we speak to them and. And we, you know, they. We. We tell them that, you know, we appreciate them being there and. And all those things, and. And they just don't get that anywhere else. And this is just. Again, it's. It's, you know, we. We don't think it's special. I guess we take it for granted. But, you know, sitting here thinking about it, Tom, it is special, and it is the people. So to answer your question, just, you know, stick to where we came from. You know, it's what makes us who we are. [29:57] Speaker B: And I think a lot of the goal of this podcast is to tell these stories and to ensure that for the next generation that people know the legacy that they're coming into. Those that are local, those that are committed to the community, but also for our guests to know there's a deep, rich history and story behind this incredible community. It's a bit of a blanket over Gatlinburg, and there's a spiritual element to that as well. And for sure that we feel a burden and a blessing to really host people and to share that. I'm trying to think of the words that. The heritage and the deep stories of those that have gone before us, which is a privilege to do, for sure. So as you think of, you know, your interaction with thousands of visitors every day, I don't know how many guests you or shoppers you have come to Food City every day. Do you tally numbers of people that come? [30:58] Speaker A: We count it as baskets, so that would be, you know, one or transactions, I guess, is the best. Best way to put that. But, you know, we. We average anywhere from, you know, 25 to 30,000 transactions a week. [31:14] Speaker B: Wow. [31:15] Speaker A: And, you know, and a lot of times my wife always says she don't like coming up there because it's so busy. And I know a lot of locals feel that way. You know, the typical grocery shopper is a lady, and maybe her children are not. Most of the time it's, you know, it's the wife of the household and taking care of the groceries. But when you shop in the store up here, you get the whole family and their friends. It's like. It's crazy to think it's like an experience for them, you know, I guess I Take it for granted, when I go on vacation, I don't want to go to the grocery store, but I'm there every day. But so many people come into the store. It's crazy. [31:57] Speaker B: You can have eight people per buggy. [31:59] Speaker A: Oh, yes. [32:00] Speaker B: They're all dividing and conquering and finding out what they want to purchase and, you know, what they want to have. And of course, we love for our guests that stay in homes to stay in their home and cook full kitchens and enjoy the view and enjoy one another and take a few meals out. But we always refer them to, you know, stopping at Food city. Go out 321 and go see Junior. Oh, Food City. [32:22] Speaker A: Well, I don't know how much I appreciate that, Tom. I owe you one for that. [32:25] Speaker B: Okay. [32:27] Speaker A: But yeah, we, we, we again alluded or spoke about being the only store in town. But, you know, I'll take all the business I could get. [32:37] Speaker B: Yep, yep. And you, it's, it's expanded the market. It's. You've got great convenient meals and produce meats and everything you need for, you know, salt and pepper all the way down the seasonings, everything that you need so you can have that there, which is great for our guests that are traveling in. So as you think about being in Gatlinburg and it's all, you know, it's, it's so familiar to you, but so many people are coming for the first time. What do you hope that they experience at Gatlinburg? A first time guest. And we've had a lot of those over the last few years. I mean, from COVID a lot of people realized, oh, there's a great place that we can drive to and we've never been to Gatlinburg before. And we had a huge influx of first time guests. What do you hope those first time guests experience when they come to Gatlinburg? [33:26] Speaker A: Well, I hope they have a good time, of course. I hope they go back and tell 10 more people how good a time they had so they will come back. But no, we just want them to experience our home. We get to share it with them for a week or three days or whatever it is they're here. We hope that they get to experience what we experience every day. And that's just a great place to live with so many things to do and so many great people to interact with and, you know, and, you know, leave it like you found it, you know, I hope they enjoy the park. The national park is what our biggest is, the draw to our little town. A lot of People forget about that a lot. So many times people get here and they don't even visit the park. And that would be a bad vacation if I was in their shoes. But some people don't feel that way. But I hope they get to experience what we get to experience every day, Tom. And that's the beautiful mountains and the great people. [34:32] Speaker B: You had mentioned the Chimneys picnic area, which is located about 10 minute drive into the national park. And right before you take a big left hand turn, you just pull right off to the right and they have picnic table set up there, they have grills. You can bring your food, you can bring your kfc, you know, your bucket of chicken. And then also there's wildflowers, a lot of wildflower trails there in April. It's just fantastic. It's really easy access and you can check jump on the rocks and enjoy the river, which is great. And you also mentioned Greenbrier going out right outside Gatlinburg into Pittman center, just. [35:09] Speaker A: Past Food City, just past Food City. [35:11] Speaker B: And past GP and so there's the Greenbrier entrance to the national park. Any other favorite parts of the national park that you hope you would experience? [35:19] Speaker A: Well, everybody knows Cades Cove, but we would be remiss not to mention Cades Cove on how great it is. You know, a lot of times when I was younger that was the first place I ever seen a deer. You know, there wasn't a lot of deer. Then again, it's just amazing how much, you know, our wildlife has populated over the years versus then, you know, Cage Cove is a great place. You know, you got towns that you go through over there into what's that? Tremont and into Cage Cove or the back way from Metcalf Bottoms through to Gatlinburg, you know, across the mountain into Cataloochee where all the elk are something we, something the park service brought back in several years ago and have done really well. But you know, we've spent a lot of time over the years in the national park fishing and fly fishing for trout. We have one of the largest populations of brook trout in the eastern United States, which is our only native fish. The rainbows and browns were stocked in by a lot of the loggers back when they were logging over in Tremont and places Elkmont. But yeah, you just, it's just hard to explain to some people. You know, as I was talking to you about my son going to Montana earlier, this is the most beautiful place I've ever been to. A lot of people think about Montana or the Yellowstone, or, you know, the Smoky Mountains are the most visited national park in America. And, you know, there's a reason why, but it's. It's just a beautiful place. [37:05] Speaker B: So as a local born and bred Gatlinburg boy, now a young man in the prime of your life, 30 years from now, you'll be 75. You might have grandchildren, you might have great grandchildren at that point. And if you were to sit fireside with some of our forefathers, some that have just recently passed, what would you tell them, or what would you like to say to them about your experience of being born and raised and finishing your years in Gatlinburg? [37:38] Speaker A: Well, I guess again, Tom, we take it for granted. But, you know, I would want to tell them that I wouldn't have lived anywhere else and that I've enjoyed every minute of it. These mountains are home. It's just hard to. It's just hard to describe how you feel, Tom. I mean, to be honest, you know, again, I've never thought of living anywhere else. I mean, it's just, you know, But I hope. I hope to say that our mountains are still there and still flourishing like they are today. Hope, knock on wood. We don't have any more tragedies like fires or floods or anything that hinders us, but, you know, just hope I can leave it like I got it. You know, it's just again, home. [38:40] Speaker B: That's beautiful. And I look back at the challenging times that we've had as a community. You look back to 2016 and the fires, and I remember Food City being a central place where so many gathered to get information and to be resourced. What was your experience? And not necessarily with the fires, but with the community and how they responded. How would you describe what happened as a result of the fires within this community? [39:10] Speaker A: Well, they say tragedies brings people together. And I just seen a community full of people and, you know, and a lot of people from outside come together as one and work for the greater good. It was just one of those things that, you know, we were closed, you know, a day and a half, I think, and we got our power back on and, you know, we had to get back open, so our people up here had some groceries and things that they needed. I know our company pitched in big time and sent a lot of help down and see, we were without a power from about 16 hours, I think it was. You're making me stretch my memory pretty well there. But, you know, again, you know, it's just one of those times where people just Came together. You know, where can. Where can we help? You know, and it's the same thing we're seeing over in our neighboring county, in Cocke county, in Newport and Greenville and places that, you know, at times like this, we. We come together. We don't sit and point around at people and say, tom should do this or Jeannie should do that or James should do this. We just say, what can we do? Again, it's hard to put into words. I hope that you get to talk to somebody on this that can put it in words, but it's really hard to put in words what happens here and how. This is such a special place. But, you know, I really seen it at the fires. You know, it was. It was one of those humbling times that, you know, wow, how did we do. How did we do this? And, you know, and to look. And to look at us now versus then, you know, there is some scars still around. But, you know, it's really, you know, like it. Like it, you know, back to where we were. But again, it was just, you know, the community and everybody just pitched in and for the greater good and worked it all out. [41:21] Speaker B: I think what is great about tragedy, it does bring out the best in people. But what I have found in meeting with people like you and knowing your story is that just tragedy might bring out the realness of who you are, and you just kind of continue being Junior Watson and doing what Junior would do and doing the right thing. But when you do that over the long haul, at every step of the day, every day you wake up and you say, I'm going to give back to my community. I'm going to honor the legacy of my parents and my family that settled here in the 1700s, and I'm going to pass it on to my. My kids. People pick that up. And Junior, I don't want you to think less than you should about your contribution to our community. And it's the salt to earth people like you combined with other leaders and so many others that we're interviewing on this podcast that make Gatlinburg such a special, special place. And just want to thank you for your leadership, not only as the store manager, and it's, you know, we need that livelihood, we need your business, but also how you go above and beyond in serving the community. All. All the different aspects. It's salt of the earth people like you that make a difference in this community and that allow for our guests to come and experience the joys of Gatlinburg and kind of those intangible hard to describe words can't really paint a picture. But those words run deep. And they run deep run in light of relationships and quality people. And you're one of those people, junior. So thanks for making Gatlinburg such a special place and sharing your story today. [42:59] Speaker A: Well, I appreciate that, Tom. I don't look at it that way, but since you brought it up, I do appreciate what you said. I'm not sure again why you picked me to be on here, but hope that I've shared something with the folks that they'll take home and really enjoy and come back and see us. [43:16] Speaker B: I don't don't underestimate the power of one person making a difference on multiple people's lives. And that's something that you're doing. It's the power of person after person after person that we're interviewing here that are making that type of difference. So thanks for making Gatlinburg such an incredible place people fall in love with again and again. [43:33] Speaker A: You're very welcome, Tom. Enjoyed being here today. [43:35] Speaker B: Great. Thank you for joining me on this episode of for the Love of Gatlinburg. I hope you enjoyed exploring the stories that weave together the rich tapestry of our mountain town. Whether you're reminiscing about past visits or dreaming of your next adventure, remember that every corner of Gatlinburg has a story waiting to be discovered. If you loved what you heard today, please take a moment to subscribe, rate and review our podcast. Your support helps us share the charm and history of Gatlinburg with even more listeners. And don't forget to connect with us on social media. Until next time, keep the spirit of Gatlinburg alive in your hearts. Safe travels and see you soon.