Haggard Wins Miss Jamboree Pageant Among 17-20 Age Group

Katie Sue Haggard won the Miss Jamboree Pageant for young ladies ages seventeen to twenty Saturday at the county complex auditorium.
Haggard is the twenty year old daughter of David and Vicki Haggard of Smithville. She beat out five other girls for the crown, the first ever awarded.
First Runner-Up: Heather Brady, the twenty year old daughter of Keith and Angela Brady of Crossville. Brady was also awarded for Prettiest Hair.
Second Runner-Up: Jacklyn Danelle Medley, the eighteen year old daughter of Sharon Medley and Troy Medley of Bone Cave, Tennessee. She was also awarded for Best Dress.
Third Runner-Up: Sarah Ann Ward, the seventeen year old daughter of Steve and Amy Ward of Walling. Ward was also judged Most Photogenic and she was awarded for Prettiest Eyes.
Fourth Runner-Up: Rebekah Grace Webb, the nineteen year old daughter of C.D. and Cindy Webb of Dowelltown.
Shauna Faith Taylor, the eighteen year old daughter of Ken and Cindy Taylor of Smithville was named Miss Congeniality.
(TOP PHOTO: MISS JAMBOREE AGES 17-20: KATIE SUE HAGGARD)
(MIDDLE PHOTO: SARAH ANN WARD (3RD RUNNER-UP), JACKLYN DANELLE MEDLEY (2ND RUNNER-UP), MISS JAMBOREE KATIE SUE HAGGARD, HEATHER BRADY (1ST RUNNER-UP), AND REBEKAH GRACE WEBB (4TH RUNNER-UP)
(BOTTOM PHOTO: MISS CONGENIALITY SHAUNA FAITH TAYLOR)

Rigsby Takes Miss Jamboree Crown among Girls Ages 7-10

Nine year old Arista Isabella Rigsby won the Miss Jamboree pageant among girls ages seven to ten on Saturday at the county complex. She was also named Most Photogenic.
Rigsby is the daughter of David and Tyroma Rigsby of Lebanon. She was among twelve girls competing for the crown in this first ever pageant.
First Runner-Up: Addison Jean Puckett, the ten year old daughter of Jimmy and Anita Puckett of Smithville. Puckett was also awarded for Prettiest Eyes.
Second Runner-Up: Carlee Elizabeth West, the nine year old daughter of D.J. and Megan Stewart of Smithville. She was also awarded for Best Dress.
Third Runner-Up: Kyleigh Breanne Hill, the nine year old daughter of Kyle Hill and Colleen and David Clary of Smithville. Hill also received an award for Prettiest Hair.
Fourth Runner-Up: Hannah Paige Trapp, the nine year old daughter of Jeremy and Jenny Trapp of Smithville.
Other contestants were Kennedy Grace Agee, the ten year old daughter of Josh and January Agee of Liberty; Darrah Elizabeth Ramsey, the nine year old daughter of Jane and Rob Ramsey of Smithville; Alexis Rigsby, the nine year old daughter of April Hall of Dowelltown; Natalie Morgan Snipes, the nine year old daughter of Tim and Michelle Snipes of Smithville; Sophia Angeletti, the nine year old daughter of Stacy Angeletti of Smithville; Kenlee Renae Taylor, the nine year old daughter of Ken and Cindy Taylor of Smithville; and Allyson Roxanne Fuller, the eight year old daughter of Anthony and Amanda Fuller of Baxter.
(TOP PHOTO: MISS JAMBOREE AMONG GIRLS AGES 7-10- ARISTA ISABELLA RIGSBY)
(BOTTOM PHOTO) : KYLEIGH BREANNE HILL (3RD RUNNER-UP), CARLEE ELIZABETH WEST ( 2ND RUNNER-UP), MISS JAMBOREE ARISTA ISABELLA RIGSBY, ADDISON JEAN PUCKETT (1ST RUNNER-UP), AND HANNAH PAIGE TRAPP (4TH RUNNER-UP)

Bid Letting for DUD Water Plant Construction Expected by August

Bid letting is expected this summer for the construction of the DeKalb Utility District water treatment plant.
During Thursday’s regular monthly meeting of the DUD Board of Commissioners, Bryant Griffin, Project Manager for the engineering firm of Goodwyn Mills and Cawood said bids could be opened for the project by the middle of August. “I called the folks at the State Revolving Fund today to talk to the fellow reviewing the plans. I did not get him but Buddy (Koonce) and I have both talked to him. We anticipate that everything should be approved on their end by July 15. We probably need about four weeks to advertise for bids and let people look at it. So we’re thinking August 15 would be about the time we would open bids. It could move up a couple of weeks depending upon what we have to deal with in the funding agencies and the state. But around August 15 is what we’re thinking,” said Griffin.
Governor Bill Haslam and Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau announced last month that DeKalb Utility District has been approved to receive $5.25 million in low interest loans for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements.
The funding paves the way for DeKalb Utility District to complete the proposed water treatment plant. In a letter to DUD Chairman Roger Turney dated May 5, 2014, Sherwin N. Smith, Director of the State Revolving Fund Loan Program wrote that the DUD’s Facilities Plan for the project has been approved.
The facilities plan provides recommendations to construct a new 2.0 million gallon per day water treatment plant and upgrade the existing water treatment system serving the DeKalb Utility District (DeKalb, Cannon, Smith, and Wilson Counties). The total estimated project cost is $12,000,000. The DeKalb Utility District will receive two Drinking Water State Revolving Fund loans totaling $5,250,000 to fund this project. The first loan is for $2,500,000 with a $2,000,000 loan and $500,000 in principle forgiveness that will not have to be repaid by the DeKalb Utility District. The second DWSRF loan is for $2,750,000. Additional funding includes a Rural Utilities Service loan for $5,000,000, a Rural Utilities Service grant for $1,250,000, and an Appalachian Regional Commission grant for $500,000″.
“With the two loans from the State Revolving Fund Loan Program, the savings for DUD customers has improved dramatically. The $12 million project will be funded with a $2.25 million grant including a forgivable loan, $4.75 million with a 20 year loan at .60% and the final $5 million with a 40 year loan from Rural Utilities Services at 2.75%. Because of the low interest rate on this completed financial package, issuing bonds with a higher interest rate will not be necessary” stated DUD manager Jon Foutch.
The project provides for the construction of a new raw water intake structure and raw water pump station on the Holmes Creek Embayment of Center Hill Reservoir (Caney Fork River); an 18-inch diameter raw water transmission line from the raw water pump station to the new 2.0 million gallon per day water treatment plant located along Holmes Creek Road; an 18-inch diameter finished water transmission line along Holmes Creek Road, Allen’s Ferry Road, and U.S. Highway 70; and new 8-inch diameter water distribution lines along Big Rock Road, Dry Creek Road, Game Ridge Road, Turner Road, Tittsworth Road, and Walker Lane. A finished water pumping station will be constructed to deliver water from the Snow’s Hill Water Tank to the Short Mountain Water Tank. The new water treatment plant will also include clarification, mixed media filtration and backwash systems, and a 250,000 gallon clear well

Free Fishing Day is Saturday

Tennessee’s annual Free Fishing Day is Saturday, June 7 when anyone may fish free without a license in the state’s public waters.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency provides the free day in hopes of increasing interest in fishing. The day allows anyone the opportunity to try this great outdoor sport, especially children. In addition, children ages 15 and younger may fish without a license beginning on Free Fishing Day through the following Friday (June 13).
The annual Pea Ridge Kids Fishing Rodeo at the big pond in the Pea Ridge Wildlife Management Area will be Saturday, June 7 from 7:00 a.m. until noon. Kids through age sixteen may participate. Lunch, soft drinks, and prizes will be available for the kids.
The day and week are annual events in Tennessee and are great opportunities to introduce children to the enjoyment and excitement of a day on the water catching fish. The TWRA is among several organizations planning special fishing events, primarily for youngsters. The TWRA annually stocks several thousand pounds of fish for various events.
Free Fishing Day and Week apply to Tennessee’s public waters, TWRA owned and operated lakes, and state park facilities. Some privately owned pay lakes continue to charge during this special day and week. Anglers may consult with lake operators if there are any questions about a particular facility.

National Get Outdoors Day Coming to Downtown Smithville

Did you know children in the United States average 45 hours a week exposed to electronic media, and only 30 minutes a week to time outdoors?
National Get Outdoors Day is an annual event across the country working to introduce our youth to recreational activities and the wonders of our Nation’s landscapes. Experiencing our Nation’s natural splendor contributes to healthier lives for our citizens and a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Healthier Beginnings have teamed up to bring the first National Get Outdoors Day to DeKalb County. Join them and other community members at the Smithville Public Square for this free event on Saturday, June 14 from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. There will be games, live music, food, and exhibits for all ages.
Activities include:
Zumba
Wildlife Displays
Relay Races
Gardening Demos
Story Time
Campsite Fun
Hula Hooping Class
AND MUCH MORE!!!
Remember to bring your lawn chair/blankets to listen to LIVE music featuring: Brandon Maddox-Nashville Recording Artist & Lucas Oil Monster Truck’s Artist of 2014 and local talent: The Martins and Tom Duggin.
The Smithville Golf Club and Swimming Pool will be priced at discounted rates from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on June 14.
Visit the National Get Outdoors Day facebook page for more information.

Jennings Named Gatorade Tennessee Softball Player of Year

Gordonsville High School’s Cori Jennings has been named the 2013-14 Gatorade Tennessee softball player of the year.
The 5-foot-7 senior left-handed pitcher led the Tigerettes to a 32-10 record and the Class A championship this past season, allowing no runs during the state tournament.
She was 32-3 with a 0.62 ERA and 245 strikeouts, issuing just 14 walks in 190 innings.
She also hit .486 with 31 extra-base hits, 39 runs scored and 51 RBIs.
Jennings has signed to play at the next level with the University of Tennessee Chattanooga. She is the daughter of Randy and Jill Jennings, and has a brother Stephen.

Three Injured in Wreck on Smith Road

Three people were injured when their 2011 Chevy Cruze crashed into a utility pole on Smith Road Thursday afternoon.
Officer Lance Dillard of the Smithville Police Department told WJLE that 49 year old Regina Stone of Smithville stated she was driving north on Smith Road when an oncoming car crossed into her path. Stone swerved trying to avoid a collision but her vehicle went off the road and snapped a utility pole.
Stone and passengers of her vehicle, 37 year old James Hesson and 37 year old Michelle Taylor, both of Smithville were taken by DeKalb EMS to DeKalb Community Hospital.
Other Smithville Police officers were also on the scene along with members of the Smithville Volunteer Fire Department. A crew from Smithville Electric System was called out to replace the broken pole, which brought down utility lines.

Jamboree Pageants Set for Saturday

The Miss/Mrs. Jamboree Pageants will be Saturday, June 7th starting at noon at the County Complex auditorium for ALL TN Girls ages 4-29. Register at the door or online NOW at www.studiosixlimited.com.
Over 60 awards and titles will be given away! The crowned winners will also have an opportunity to be an awards presenter during the televised 2014 Jamboree.
(CLICK LINK BELOW FOR PAGEANT REGISTRATION INFORMATION)
Jamboree_Pageant_RegistrationForm_FRONT.pdf (2.46 MB)
The Miss/Mrs. Jamboree Pageant is sponsored by DeKalb Community Hospital, a proud supporter of the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree.
*For Ages 4-6 / 7-10 / 11-13
Sat. June 7 – sign in by 11:30am
*For Ages 14-17 / 18-20 / 21-29
Sat. June 7 – sign in by 12:30
Optional Rehearsal for all age categories, Friday @ 6pm / DeKalb Co. Complex Stage.
Questions? Text or email Shan Burklow @ 615-594-2792 or sburklow@dchtn.com

DUD Board Seeks Reappointment of Two Members

The terms of two members of the DeKalb Utility District Board of Commissioners are expiring this year. During its regular monthly meeting Thursday, the DUD board certified a list of nominees to the county mayors of DeKalb and Cannon County to fill those positions.
The term of Roger Turney, serving Cannon County on the DUD’s board will expire on August 31, 2014. Jimmy Womack’s term will expire on October 31, 2014. Womack is one of three members on the board who serves DeKalb County. Each term is for four years.
By law, the DUD board must submit the names of three nominees to fill each position, listed in order of preference. During Thursday’s meeting, the board voted to submit the names of Turney, Chris Blackburn, and Winfred Gaither in that order to the Cannon County Mayor. The DUD board also voted to submit the names of Womack, Jimmy Herndon, and Paul Blair in that order to the DeKalb County Mayor.
Under the law, a customer could have also submitted names for consideration by the DUD board for the list of nominees. A public notice was published last month but no names were offered by DUD customers.
The general provisions of Tennessee Code Annotated (State Law) TCA § 7-82-307 provide that the utility board members must submit three nominees, listed in order of preference, to the county mayor (where the vacancy exists). The county mayor has the authority to appoint one of the nominees to the vacant position on the board or reject all of the nominees. If the county mayor rejects all three nominees, then the board of (utility) commissioners has to submit three additional nominees to the county mayor for consideration. If the county mayor rejects these nominees, then the process would continue until the position is filled. There are, however, exceptions to these general provisions in the statute. Any order either appointing or rejecting a list of nominees shall be entered of record on the minutes of the county legislative body and a certified copy of the order shall be furnished to the board of (utility) commissioners and to the appointee; provided, that upon the rejection of any entire list of nominees by the county mayor, the board of (utility) commissioners shall continue to submit new nonidentical lists of three (3) nominees to the county mayor within sixty (60) days after each such rejection until such procedure shall result in the vacancy being filled for the remainder of the term or for the new term, as provided in this section.
The DUD Board is made up of five members, three from DeKalb County (Jimmy Womack, Joe Foutch, and Hugh Washer), one from Cannon (Roger Turney), and one from Smith County (Danny Bass). The terms are staggered. Bass was absent during Thursday’s meeting.

“Baby and Me Tobacco Free” Program Helps Pregnant Women Quit Smoking

DeKalb County is starting a three-year tobacco prevention program with funds from the tobacco settlement lawsuit. DeKalb County received funding for this year and part of those funds will be used for the Baby and Me Tobacco Free program to help all women quit smoking during and after pregnancy. Baby and Me has a 60 percent success rate in helping pregnant women quit smoking and stay tobacco-free. Baby and Me will be available at the DeKalb County Health Department.
“Quitting smoking when you are pregnant is the most important thing you can do to protect your health and the health of your baby. We are committed to helping all pregnant women quit smoking,” Monica Turner, RN with the DeKalb County Health Department.
Research suggests a mother is never more motivated to quit than when she becomes pregnant, and Baby and Me hopes to capitalize on that motivation by offering four brief counseling sessions on how to quit smoking during pregnancy. After the birth of the baby, the mother returns monthly for a quick carbon monoxide breath test. If she stays smoke-free, she receives a $25 voucher for diapers from Wal-Mart for each month she is smoke-free. Vouchers can be received for the first 12 months of the child’s life. The $25 diaper vouchers, along with having no more cigarette expenses, will help new parents save money as well as protect the health of their family. While this savings could be particularly helpful for low income households, this program is available to all pregnant smokers, regardless of income.
When pregnant women smoke, the chemicals in cigarettes reach the baby and can keep it from getting the food and oxygen it needs to grow. The risk of miscarriage is much higher for women who smoke while pregnant. Smoking during pregnancy often leads to low birth-weight and premature birth. Smaller babies typically get sick more often and have a higher risk of death within their first year. After the baby is born, second-hand smoke exposure increases the likelihood of colds, bronchitis, ear infections, allergies, and asthma.
According to Monica Turner, RN, “Approximately 28.4% of pregnant women in DeKalb County smoke. We want to help these women break the tobacco habit and keep their babies healthy.”
For more information on the Baby and Me program or to sign up, call the DeKalb County Health Department at 615-597-7599