Actress Park Overall, a Greeneville native who has been successful in television, on stage, and in movies, performed stand-up comedy for the first time in her career on Wednesday night in Jonesborough, before an overflow audience at a cafe/coffee house there. (Please see related article, this page.)

On Thursday afternoon, Overall sent The Greeneville Sun the following unsolicited statement voicing distress that some people who wanted to see the performance were turned away because of the unexpectedly large turnout and the relatively small size of the cafe/coffee house.

She wrote:

"I am absolutely stunned at the turn-out for my attempt at stand-up comedy last night at The Cranberry Thistle in Jonesborough. I felt I was among relatives even though I did not know three-quarters of the people in the room.

"Although it seemed to go well, the ladies that own the restaurant told me they turned over 100 people away. Had Susan Lachmann, the producer of the show, or I known the response would be that overwhelming, we would have chosen a larger venue.

"I am absolutely devastated that people came from miles around, and were sent home. I did not expect 20 people; I mean that.

"I would like to apologize to each and every one that was turned away and say, I owe ya! Susan and I will begin to figure out how to make it right.

"I thank all of you, whether turned away or not, for coming out to support me and know, it means the world to me, and always will. Thank you.

"Sincerely,

"Park Overall

"Ripley Island Road"

Afton"