68 year old Barbara Jane (Janie) Black of McMinnville died Saturday at her residence. She was born in DeKalb County. Black was also a homemaker and a member of the Grace Temple Assembly of God. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Eston and Iva Maureen Cantrell Jones and a son, Terry Nelson Black. The funeral will be Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of McMinnville Funeral Home. Glenn McKenzie will officiate and burial will be in the Mount Zion Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. She is survived by her husband of 52 years Mason Black; a daughter, Christy Tanner; a son and daughter-in-law, James and Patsy Black; a son, Tony Black all of McMinnville; and a brother, Nelson Jones of Murfreesboro. Grandchildren, Shana Turner, Brandon Black and his wife Cole, Cotey Tanner, T.J., Matthew, and Micha Black. Great grandchildren, Hannah Glover, Jake McMinn, and James Taven Black also survive. McMinnville Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Tag Archives: 2007
Honor Students Named at DCHS
DeKalb County High School has released the names of this year’s Honor Students including the 2007 Valedictorian Courtney Rhody and the Salutatorian Kendra Adcock.
Both Rhody and Adcock have compiled a 4.0 grade point average.
Other students earning “Highest Distinction” with a grade point average of 3.8 to 4.0 include Andrew Moore, Kristen James, Nickole Macy, and Jordan Atnip each with a 4.0; Annica Vettraino 3.9286, Angel Lindsay 3.9259, Zach Davidson 3.9231, Ashleigh Wright 3.9216, Justin Nokes 3.8571, Chris Young 3.8571, Tera Menix 3.8519, and Ashley Rowland 3.8148.
Students earning “High Distinction” with a grade point average of 3.6 to 3.7999 include Heather Cantrell 3.7778, Joey Driver 3.75, Sarah Fury 3.7083, Thomas Hale 3.7407, Brandon Shaw 3.7308, Rebecca Hendrixson 3.6667, Gwenevere Michaels 3.6607, Chase Tramel 3.6154, Colby Kilgore 3.6111, Brittney Bell 3.6071, Josh Nokes 3.6071, Danny Pirtle 3.6071, and Josh Howe 3.6.
Those earning “Distinction” with a grade point average of 3.2 to 3.5999 include Amy Ashford 3.5556, Tera Campbell 3.5556, Kristina Heriott 3.5357, Kelli Bess 3.52, Kelli Twilla 3.5, Mikey O’Conner 3.5, Tiffany Walls 3.5, Holly Hughes 3.4615, Anna Trapp 3.4444, Billy Fuson 3.3913, Sarah Nunley 3.3750, Roberta Applegate 3.3571, Ashley Burchfield 3.3571, Richard Schilt 3.3571, Ashley McCormick 3.3333, Carolina Noyola 3.3333, Claire Garrett 3.3077, Whitney Maples 3.2857, Kayla Kilgore 3.2593, Jessica Berry 3.2407, Martha Robertson 3.2292, and Jimbo Williams 3.2143.
The Class of 2007 at DeKalb County High School will graduate on Friday, May 18th.
Smithville Police Continue Crackdown on Drug Trafficking and Traffic Offenses
Smithville Police continued their crackdown on DUI, Drug trafficking and traffic enforcement in the city with numerous investigations and arrests this week.
Chief Thomas Stufano says “Smithville Police observed a vehicle with an improper tag being driven on Congress Boulevard.. Upon stopping and contacting the driver, Officers found that the driver 28 year old Jamie Carroll of 834 Gentry Avenue was driving on a Suspended License 3rd offense. Carroll was subsequently arrested and transported to the DeKalb County Jail. He is under a $3,000 bond.”
Investigators working an undercover narcotics investigation arrested 26 year old Danny Ray Murphy of 335 Shady Drive for Sale and Distribution of a Schedule II Drug and driving a vehicle with no Driver’s License. Also arrested was 26 year old Amy Vandercamp of McMinnville. A citizen complaint led police to the Food Lion parking lot where the two were actively engaged in a drug transaction. Upon contact Investigators found Murphy in possession of K-4 Dilaudid and a large amount of cash. Vandercamp was also in possession of K-4 Dilaudid. The pair was arrested and transported to the DeKalb County Jail. Bond was set at $40,000 for them. The vehicles were impounded under the state’s Drug Forfeiture Act and the Revenue Department was contacted for tax administrative action.
Smithville Officers arrested 53 year old Steven William Palmer of 224 Garfield Street, McMinnville for Driving under the Influence. Officer’s responded to the area of McMinnville Highway in answer to a suspected drunk driving complaint. Upon arrival Smithville Officer’s made contact with Palmer who was given standardized field sobriety tests for intoxication. Chief Stufano says “It was apparent that Palmer was heavily intoxicated as he was unable to perform these tests. He was arrested for DUI and transported to the DeKalb County Jail under a $1,000 bond. A computer check showed that Palmer also had a current warrant for his arrest for DUI from another county.”
Officers also responded to a complaint of a reckless driver on East Broad Street where they came in contact with 33 year old Federico Torres of 1383 Blue Springs Road. A concerned citizen who had been following the erratic driver called the Smithville Police to report that the driver had multiple near crashes. Officers who responded stated that Federico was too intoxicated to stand or perform any of the sobriety tests. The investigation also noted open containers of alcohol in the vehicle. He was arrested for DUI 2nd offense and driving on a revoked license. He was transported to the DeKalb County Jail. His bond is $2,000.
Smithville Police Investigators arrested 34 year old Katherine Michelle Carr of 628 Restview in Smithville and 34 year old Sharon Barnwell of Smithville for Sale and Delivery of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Paraphernalia. Chief Stufano says the two were engaged in an illegal drug transaction in the Walmart parking lot as reported by a concerned citizen. Smithville Investigators were able to quickly setup surveillance and arrested the parties as they exited the parking area. Further investigation noted that the drug transaction involved rock cocaine. At the time of the arrest Carr had (5) minor children in her car who were turned over to a family member who was called to the scene. The two adults were arrested and transported to the DeKalb County Jail and charged. Bond was set at $101,000. Their vehicles were seized under the State’s Drug Forfeiture Act and the State Revenue authorities were contacted.
Chief Stufano says “Smithville Police have been increasing their enforcement efforts in the areas of DUI, Drugs and Speeding within the city limits. Residents are encouraged to report to the Police any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. Remember to contact 615-215-3000 for normal reporting of events and 911in the event of an emergency.”
Rodney M. Higham, Jr.
39 year old Rodney M. Higham, Jr. of Ellendale, Delaware died Wednesday at Christiana Medical Center in Newark, Delaware from injuries he received at work. Higham was a home builder and the owner of Design Tech in Ellendale, Delaware. The funeral will be Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Berry-Short Funeral Home in Milford, Delaware. Burial will be in the Milford Community Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from noon until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. He was preceded in death by his step-father, Ronnie Vickers. Survivors include his wife, Marlene Turner Higham of Ellendale, Delaware. His mother, Margaret Vickers of Milford, Delaware. His father and step-mother, Rodney M. and Janice Higham of Smithville. Three children, Tanya Kenton of Harrington, Delaware; B.J. Welty of Milford, Delaware; and Jerrica Welty of Lincoln, Delaware. A granddaughter, Adrianna LaFontaine. His maternal grandfather, Edward A. Myers of Wilmington, Delaware. A brother, Michael Higham, Sr. of Middletown, Delaware. A nephew, Michael Higham, Jr. of Middletown, Delaware. Several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law also survive. The Berry-Short Funeral Home in Milford, Delaware is in charge of the arrangements. This information provided as a courtesy of DeKalb Funeral Chapel.
Eston Adcock
80 year old Eston Adcock of Smithville died Friday evening at DeKalb Community Hospital of an extended illness. The body is at DeKalb Funeral Chapel. Complete arrangements are to be announced.
Eight Candidates In The Race To Fill Three Smithville Alderman Seats
Eight candidates have qualified to run for alderman in the Smithville Municipal Election on Tuesday, June 19th.
Thursday at noon was the qualifying deadline
Those who have qualified to be on the ballot include Shawn Jacobs, Jerry W. Hutchins’ Sr, Tonya Sullivan, Willie Thomas, Todd VanDyne, W.J. (Dub) White, Paul Young, and Aaron Meeks.
Three will be elected.
White, Meeks, and Young are incumbents seeking re-election.
The last day to register to vote in the Smithville election is May 20th.
To vote in the city election, voters must live inside the city limits or they may live elsewhere in DeKalb County and own property within the city limits. The Smithville Charter states the property must be 7500 square feet. Property rights voters must register at the Election Commission office by the registration deadline. Proof of ownership is required.
For more information please contact the Election Commission office.
School Board Names DCHS Theater in honor of Ina Ruth Bess
The Board of Education Thursday night voted unanimously to name the Theater at DeKalb County High School in honor of Ina Ruth Bess, who will be retiring at the end of this school year.
Ms. Bess has been an educator since 1948 and much of her career has been at DeKalb County High School, where she has taught and directed class plays over the years.
Meanwhile, DCHS Principal Kathy Hendrix has announced that Monday through Friday, March 19th-23rd will be “Ina Ruth Bess Week” at DeKalb County High School.
The administration, faculty and staff at the school are planning several special events in honor of Ms. Bess’ retirement and are asking for the public to participate.
School officials are planning to put together a book containing notes, cards, pictures, congratulations, etc. for Ms. Bess to enjoy after her retirement. If you would like to send something, please do so in advance and send it to: Mrs. Harriett Cantrell or Dixie Crook, DCHS, 1130 West Broad Street, Smithville, TN 37166. You may also leave it with Ms. Crook at Smithville Food Store, after school hours.
Monday, March 19?Former teachers/retired teachers are urged to visit with Ms. Bess from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tuesday, March 20?Former Tigerette members are to visit with Ms. Bess from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, March 21?Former students can visit with her from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Thursday, March 22?A reception for DeKalb County teachers, staff, and central office staff will be held in the DCHS cafeteria from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, March 23?An assembly program will be held in the DCHS gym at 9 a.m. and is open to all who would like to attend.
If your schedule will not allow you to visit on a specific day, you may stop by any day during the week to visit with Ms. Bess. When you enter the school, you must sign in at the office. There will be a signature book for you to sign and someone will be there to direct you.
The front row parking spaces near the sidewalk of the school will also be open to the general public next week.
In other school board news from Thursday night, the board approved the Licensure Advancement of Ashley Barnes, David Gash, and Amanda Rhoady and the Tenure status of Ashley Barnes, Tena Davidson, David Gash, Amanda Rhoady, and Melissa Ruch
Director Mark Willoughby presented his monthly report on personnel.
Those employed since last month include Penny Smitty, certified substitute teacher and Kenneth Allen, Rachel Church, Betty Fisk, Clayton Moore, Lori Page, Shaundra Smith, Tammy Vanatta, Susan West, Thomas Werling, and Julie Young as substitute teachers.
Those resigning are Deona Thomas, certified substitute teacher, Tracey Baker, educational assistant at Northside Elementary School, Vickey Atnip, educational assistant at Northside Elementary School, and Rachel Bandy, cafeteria worker at DCHS. Ina Ruth Bess, teacher at DCHS, has announced her retirement.
Martha Damon, teacher at DeKalb West School, has been granted a leave of absence as requested.
Those who have been transferred include Angela Lawson, transferred to a full time bus position, Jerry Lawson, transferred to a substitute bus position, Helen Lafever, transferred to a full time cafeteria position, and Cynthia Armour, transferred to a full time cafeteria position.
Federal Grant Helps Provide Transportation for DeKalb County Residents.
A portion of a $2 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant will help Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency provide transportation for DeKalb County residents who need it, U.S. Representative Bart Gordon announced today.
“The Bus and Bus-Related Facilities program provides funding for new and replacement buses and related equipment and facilities,” Gordon said. “Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency will use the funds to replace 12 vans.”
UCHRA’s Transportation Program provides more than 193,643 trips for 14,532 individuals in their service area, using an average of 72 vehicles a day and traveling 2.6 million miles per year, according to Transportation Director Rebecca Harris. “Therefore, it is necessary to replace vehicles with more than 175,000 miles to continue this much needed service in the Upper Cumberland region.”
Harris and UCHRA Executive Director Phyllis Bennett expressed their appreciation to the state’s congressional delegation for its support and efforts on behalf of the Upper Cumberland Area Rural Transit System Program. UCARTS provides public transportation to rural residents of all ages giving first priority to the elderly, disabled and economically disadvantaged with medical needs.
“The agency’s board of directors wish to express their appreciation to Congressman Bart Gordon for his continued dedication to providing funding to enable residents to move from dependence to independence,” Bennett said.
UCHRA serves 14 Upper Cumberland counties, including DeKalb County.
Raymond J. Ross, Jr.
71 year old Raymond J. Ross, Jr. of Kendallville, Indiana died Tuesday at Parkview Noble Hospital in Kendallville, Indiana. He was a U.S. Army Veteran and a retired employee of the CMW Transportation Company with over 20 years of service. He also drove a truck for Eshelman Excavating for 4 years. A memorial service will be held Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at the Ross residence in Kendallville, Indiana. Brian Koegler will officiate. Visitation will be Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Ross was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond James, Sr. and Fannie Kathryn Fry Ross and a sister, Marge Schmenk. Survivors include his wife, Twyla Ross of Kendallville. Four sons and daughters-in-law, Karl and Angie Koegler and Scott and Christine Koegler all of Kendallvile, Don and Tricia Koegler of LaPorte, Indiana, and Brian and Leticia Koegler of Smithville. Eleven grandchildren. A sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Richard Ludlow of Schenider, Indiana and several nieces and nephews. The Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville, Indiana is in charge of the arrangements. The family asks that donations be made to the Kendallville Public Library, the American Lung Association, or Justin Potter Library in Smithville in lieu of flowers. This information provided as a courtesy of DeKalb Funeral Chapel.
Anna Jo Foutch
64 year old Anna Jo Foutch of Smithville died Sunday night at DeKalb Community Hospital. She was a homemaker and a member of the Calvary Baptist Church. She was also active with the March of Dimes and a longtime DeKalb Youth sponsor. The funeral will be Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Love-Cantrell Funeral Home. Burial will be in DeKalb Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be Monday from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. She was preceded in death by her father, John Thomas Taylor; her husband Jackie Foutch; and a sister, Betty Smith. Survivors include a son, Scott and his wife Kim Foutch; and two daughters, Sandy and her husband Jeff Fults and Terry and her husband Ricky Patterson all of Smithville. Her mother, Maudie Mae Hitchcock Taylor of Smithville. Eleven grandchildren and a brother, Johnny Taylor of McMinnville. Love-Cantrell Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.