Staff Writer

CUMBERLAND GAP - The increase price of gas in the wake of Hurricane Katrina is keeping many tourists at home and because of a fear of low turnout, the town of Cumberland Gap has canceled some events planned for this month.

At Monday's town council meeting, John Ravnum explained that the Cumberland Gap Business Association had canceled festival events that were scheduled for this past weekend.

"It's funny with this hurricane - to think how much of it would effect all of

this up here - but when gas went crazy, it scared a lot of people off," said

Ravnum.

Ravnum said the business association refunded all the money to those who were to participate in the event and added that the association is looking at the possibility of canceling the October events as well, however, Ravnum stressed that is still very much an undecided call.

"It's still up in the air," he said. "We've thought about putting that event on hold but many people have voiced interest in help financing it."

But not all things are grim, Ravnum continued, as he told the aldermen he has received word from father Christmas that he will be in the town the first Friday and Saturday in December.

"You know, many hands make lighter work and if there is anyone, anyone, who would be interested in physically helping with any event, they will not be turned away," said Ravnum.

Ravnum said the business association will have a meeting later this week to discuss October events and make some final calls. He said the association was also looking into just hosting two festivals instead of four or more and be more cautious about what other events are going on in the area at the time.

In other business, alderman and fire department chief John Adams said the installer has been trained for the new smoke detector program and he will be going door to door this week to put the devices in people's homes.

"We have 280 to install, that should cover the town pretty good," said Adams. "They are free and it may save your life, so, please participate."

Alderman John Webb said in her water and sewer updates, the water loss was starting to creep back up - jumping from 27 percent in July to 37 percent in August.

Ray Paul reported that his crew have found some other leaks in the lines within the past couple of weeks and they have been repaired.

Jesse Thompson, wastewater treatment plant operator, reported that some major improvements have been done to the plant and an inspector from the state is to view it for himself Tuesday.

Alderman Adams also reported that Jim Buffler, inspector from O.S.H.A., was

in town recently and was going over a few things to help aid the town in

it's inspection, which is due to take place six months from now.

"This is the inspection we really dread but I don't think it's going to be a

big deal or big problem," said Adams. "We just to work on it a bit."