Submitted by Billy Woodard, Executive Director Smith County Chamber of Commerce

For well over a century, the Carthage Junction Depot has stood as a poignant emblem of Smith County’s rich history, bearing witness to the ebb and flow of time and progress. Rooted in the late 1800s, this depot bore witness to the vibrant movements of passengers, freight, and mail along the Tennessee Central Railroad. As the Tennessee Central Railroad etched its path toward Knoxville, a crucial branch extended its reach into Smith County, extending its embrace to the bustling town of Carthage. Opening its doors on August 11, 1888, the section connecting Lebanon to Gordonsville was swiftly followed by the completion of the Carthage branch in the same December. This pivotal juncture, famously known as Carthage Junction, indelibly marked a crossroads in Smith County’s narrative.

Nestled between Preston Road. and Hickman Creek, adjacent to the present-day State Route Hwy 141, the Carthage Junction depot resided as a poignant relic of a bygone era—a testament to its pivotal role in the region’s commercial tapestry. The tracks originating from Gordonsville gracefully extended into south Carthage, finding their terminus near the very site where the Cordell Hull bridge would be erected in 1934, spanning the Cumberland River. Carthage Junction transformed into a lifeline, servicing Carthage, the county seat, via the “middle ferry crossing” on the river.

Yet, as the echoes of passenger rail traffic faded, uncertainty clouded the depot’s future. An era of vacancy set in, and the weathered building itself became a silent witness to the passage of time. Nevertheless, a series of transformations awaited, each pivot ushering in a new chapter.

The year 1970 proved pivotal as the railroad’s intent to dismantle the depot sent shockwaves through the community. However, Mr. John Waggoner, Sr. intervened, acquiring, and relocating the building a few miles away, where it found a new home nestled beside Interstate 40 exit number 258. In more recent times, preservationists rallied, determined to salvage this historic haven. The journey commenced with a daring move in October 2014, as the depot embarked on a three-mile odyssey to South Carthage. The result? A breathtaking vista overlooking the tranquil waters of the Caney Fork River, where the depot now stands proudly.

With unwavering commitment, the Carthage Junction Depot project embarked on an ambitious mission—to restore and transform this endangered relic into a multi-faceted haven for local artists. This creative cocoon not only nurtures artistic expression but also safeguards Smith County’s railroad heritage.

Economic vitality is the bedrock of thriving communities, particularly in small, rural areas. The Smith County Chamber of Commerce, dedicated to fostering smart growth and development, views the Carthage Junction Depot as a vital ingredient in this formula. Beyond its role in tourism, the depot aspires to become an educational beacon for local schools and a catalyst for retail and business development, ensuring economic resilience.

Perched proudly at Pipers Ford on the Caney Fork River, the Carthage Junction Depot beckons adventurers with its myriad offerings. From access to the Caney Fork and Cumberland Rivers for kayaking and canoeing, to its adjacency to Kidz Central Park, the Smith County Fair Grounds, Ag Center, and Soccer Complex, this reinvigorated treasure trove is a hub of recreation. Future plans encompass a gift shop, rail history exhibits, kayak adventures, an internet café, food concessions, and an extended walking trail – a testament to the positive effect of cooperation.

The mission to safeguard the Carthage Junction Depot was fueled by the generosity and dedication of individuals and businesses. In August 2014, a ray of hope emerged as KFC/Taco Bell, represented by Mr. Chris Jones, donated the depot to Smith County. Mr. Jones and his associates had recently purchased the property to build the restaurant in Gordonsville. This altruistic gesture set the stage for a vibrant future, propelling a community-driven initiative to preserve the depot.

Under the guidance of Billy Woodard, Smith County Chamber Director, a committee of community members rose to “Save the Depot.” Spearheaded by Chairwoman Mrs. Virginia Alexander, along with Mr. Keith Williams, Mayor Michael Nesbitt, Jerry Solimine, Ryan Ray, Shelia Ferrell, Rob Kirby, and Ron Selliers, this resolute team achieved remarkable feats. Over a mere three months, their tireless fundraising efforts yielded over $18,000 in private donations—a testament to the community’s broad-based support of the project.

Financial challenges were confronted head-on, with relocation costs amounting to $13,350. Further funds, approximately $3,600, were allocated to prepare the building for its journey. The generosity of Rackley Roofing Company, which removed and reinstalled the roof, constituted an in-kind donation valued at an impressive $20,000, with an additional $10,000 worth of materials, including paint. Inspired by the success of the building’s relocation, community members like Mr. John Leftwich, Sr. rallied to contribute. Further support emanated from the Smith County Leadership Class of 2016, who funded signage for the completed depot. Another vital funding source emerged through the Tennessee ThreeStar grant program, which offers competitive grants to projects fostering tourism and economic development in the state. Notably, the Depot project secured two such grants.

Although renovations progressed gradually, the project found champions among the dedicated volunteers of the committee who undertook the arduous task. Special recognition is owed to Billy Jack Alexander and his brother for their unyielding efforts.

The road ahead gleams with potential. The original structure was enhanced by the addition of a wrap-around deck, Plans are underway for an adjacent accessory building replicating the South Carthage Depot. This new structure will house essential amenities, including restrooms and a concession area for potential kayak rentals, further enhancing the depot’s allure. Collaboration with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is poised to bear fruit this fall, with the promise of a kayak access point on the Caney Fork River, enriching the site’s recreational offerings.

The cultural landscape of the area has been invigorated by monthly art shows and exhibitions held at the depot. Spearheaded by Keith Williams and Jenny Penuel, these events have drawn visitors from beyond the region, inviting them to savor the offerings of the Carthage Junction Depot.

As the Carthage Junction Depot edges closer to its reimagined future, the Smith County Chamber of Commerce Depot committee stands resolute. Regular updates and discussions are facilitated through our Facebook page and scheduled meetings, inviting community members to contribute to this extraordinary endeavor.

For those eager to delve deeper, contribute, or become involved, the Smith County Chamber of Commerce extends a warm invitation. To connect with this remarkable project, visit https://www.facebook.com/CarthageJunctionDepot/ or contact the Smith County Chamber of Commerce at 615-735-2093.

The Carthage Junction Depot stands as an enduring testament to the potency of community spirit—a legacy spanning generations and nurturing a sense of pride. With each step forward, this historic beacon is poised to usher in a new era of culture, recreation, and economic vitality, all while revering the spirit of those who embarked through its doors.

Carthage Depot 1986 at the Gordonsville Site off I-40 Exit 258 (right) Pic Cir 1940 – at original site in Gordonsville (left)

On July 28th, Sergeant Junior Fields spoke to United States Postal Inspector Donald Paxton by phone at which time Mr. Paxton advised that a package was sent to Mr. Allmon from S&S Air cooled Products and Accessories with an address of 645 S. State College Blvd. E Fullerton CA. 92831 with a weight of 4 pounds 5 ounces. 

A flag was placed on the package and it was intercepted in Nashville TN. on 08-02-2023 by Inspector Paxton where he had a K-9 check the package and after a positive indication a federal search warrant was obtained and the package was opened by Inspector Paxton. 

Inside the package were three bags which contained the following drugs. Bag number one had 20 psilocybin mushroom candy bars. Bag number two contained 20 THC Vapes. Bag number three contained 10 THC Vapes, bag of THC pineapple gummies, and 1 additional THC vape. The package was scheduled for delivery on 08-03-2023 between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm.

On August 30th Sgt. Junior Fields, Deputy Brady Dodson, Lt. Dusty Hailey, Sgt. Robin Bellar, Deputy Nathan Williams and United States Postal Inspector / DEA Task Force Officer Donald Paxton met at the Smith County Sheriff’s Office for a briefing. It was determined that the delivery would be done at approximately 11:30 am and that once it was picked up and carried inside the search warrant would be served on the residence. 

After delivery confirmation was made and the package was received into the residence. The officers went to 9 Hillsdale LN. E. Carthage TN. 37030 for the service of the search warrant. Upon executing the search warrant  Sgt. Junior Fields knocked and announced but while knocking the front door came open at which time we entered. 

Mr. Arnold was detained in the living room and placed into handcuffs. Mr. James McKinney, and Mr. David Dulaney were also detained in the basement and escorted to the living room. Sgt. Fields had Mr. James Adam Allmon and Mrs. Lindsey Allmon who were at work and they were advised to come to the residence.

After conducting a search of the residence a total of 3 pounds, 8.7 ounces of THC Gummies were located. Mushroom edibles included two types with one being Psilocybin Mushroom Candy bars, and two nerd ropes, 10.2 ounces of processed marijuana, 68 THC Vape Cartridges, 4 ounces of THC Wax, 16 GM of Crystal Methamphetamine, and 2 THC brownies along with digital scales, glass pipes, baggies, 5 firearms to include a short barrel AR-15 style Rifle, 22 Rifle, 380 Semi Auto pistol, Savage 308 Winchester Rifle, and two AR 15 upper receivers. 

Some of the items were on a dresser within reach of a small child. Mr. and Mrs. Allmon along with Mr. McKinney were placed under arrest and transported to the Smith County Jail for processing.

COOKEVILLE, TN – Tennessee Tech University kicked off the fall semester with the largest marching band in the university’s 108-year history.

The Golden Eagle Marching Band begins the academic year with 211 members representing 32 different undergraduate majors. As part of the marching band, the university is also welcoming the return of its color guard for the first time in more than a decade.

For Jeffrey Miller, director of bands at Tech, the record-breaking numbers are the realization of a years-long goal.

“When I came here five years ago, one of the early conversations I had with our department chair at the time and with the president was that we want to see numbers in the marching band grow to include more non-music majors,” said Miller. “I’m ecstatic about the growth we’ve had and not just the quantity but the quality of the students that are with us this year. They have proven their dedication and strength as musicians and they are excited to be at Tennessee Tech.”

With the band, including a 22-member color guard, now in place, Miller has set his sights on perfecting the half time show for home football games. This year, the band will pay tribute to Elvis Presley with selections such as “Jailhouse Rock” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

The marching band is also set to perform on Oct. 14 at the “Pulaski Classic” exhibition hosted by Giles County High School and will host its annual high school band day on Oct. 21. Miller says both events are valuable recruitment opportunities for the university that allow band students to showcase their talents.

“Anecdotally, we know there are students who say, ‘I saw the band at that exhibition, and it helped seal the deal for me,’” said Miller. “At high school band day, we invite those students to perform on the field with us. We started this event last year and we are hoping it will grow this year.”

Miller is quick to note that the marching band’s success is a team effort – one that is helped by new colleagues such as Brittany Tramont, the band’s color guard director, percussion faculty, and veteran faculty members like Eric Harris, the former associate director of bands who now leads the university’s new live audio arts and sciences degree option in the School of Music.

“Dr. Harris is a big part of why we’re able to be successful,” said Miller. “In his new role, his live audio students are learning to mix the sound and lead in all of the behind-the-scenes aspects that make our performances that much more enhanced.”

Jennifer Shank, dean of the College of Fine Arts at Tech, adds that the growth of the marching band is further proof of the local community’s embrace of the arts.

“Cookeville is not only a strong college town, but also an arts town. Tennessee Tech has a proud history of making lasting contributions to our community’s vibrant arts scene, including through the Golden Eagle Marching Band,” said Shank. “Our marching band is at the heart of some of Tech’s finest moments and best-loved traditions. We are exceedingly proud of where the band is today thanks to Dr. Miller, School of Music Director Dr. Colin Hill and our outstanding student performers.”

The marching band has other changes on the horizon, too. Miller reports that Tech President Phil Oldham’s office provided needed funding for new band uniforms, which will debut in 2024.

Learn more about the School of Music at Tech by visiting https://www.tntech.edu/fine-arts/music/index.php.

A Saturday afternoon kayaking trip in Smith County ended tragically with a person’s death. The Smith County Rescue Squad posted on their facebook page indicating that they were dispatched at approximately 4:52 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 26 to a report of an overturned kayak. The kayaker was on the bank and unresponsive. 

First responders arrived at the scene, and brought the kayaker back to the Happy Hollow boat ramp, which attaches to the Caney Fork River. The victim identified as 65 year old, Jerry Ozmon, of Scottsville, KY was placed in the care of awaiting medical personnel. However, Ozmon did not survive.

According to the generation information, 2 plus generators were operating at the time. The Smith County Rescue Squad reminds “We say this over & over please please wear your life jackets and especially when there is heavy generation. We ask the community members to pray for the kayaker’s family.”

Just last weekend, August 19th the Smith County Rescue Squad responded to two calls in less than six hours involving overturned kayakers near Betty’s Island. According to first responders, you need to wear your life jacket when you’re out on the water. After all, nobody plans to overturn, but when you do, it may be too late to put on your safety gear because the current could push it away from you.

Kayakers can check the generation schedule for the Center Hill Dam and for the Cordell Hull Dam or visits TVA.com website. According to the TN Boating laws there must be at least one U.S. Coast Guard Approved Type I,II, or III lifejacket (PFD) per person onboard the vessel (your kayak). Kayakers 13 and younger must wear approved PFDs while underway.

LEBANON, TN – The Eighth Annual Tennessee State Fair FFA Ham Breakfast was a sold-out event with more than 1,200 business leaders, government officials, farmers, and members of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) present Monday. The event raised $200,000 for FFA and was presented by Farm Credit Mid-America. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) CEO Jeff Lyash headlined the event with other guest speakers: Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, United States Senators Marsha Blackburn (TN) and Bill Hagerty (TN), Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-5), and Congressman John Rose (TN-6).

Lee Todd of Germantown was recognized with the prestigious Tennessee FFA Lifetime Achievement Award. Todd was a State and National FFA Officer in the 1950s who carried his love of agriculture into a successful career as the Executive Director of the Cotton Ginners Association. Todd is a member of the Tennessee FFA Sponsoring Committee.

Each year, the event highlights the Tennessee Century Farm Program, administered by the Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University and the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. One of Tennessee’s oldest farms, the Glenn Acres Farm in College Grove, Tennessee, was recognized.

The FFA program is one component of agricultural education, which is a course offered in some 230 middle and high schools across Tennessee. The administration of the FFA program is a joint effort between the Tennessee Departments of Agriculture and Education. Both Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher and newly appointed Education Commissioner Lizzette Gonzalez Reynolds were in attendance.

Lieutenant Governor Randy McNally, a sponsor of the event, and House Speaker Cameron Sexton were among the more than 40 state legislators in attendance. Other representatives of the State Legislature that participated as sponsors of the event included State Senator Jack Johnson, the House Democrat Caucus led by State Representative John Ray Clemmons, and State Representatives Michael Hale, Pat Marsh, and William Lamberth.

Supporters of the event included agricultural household names such as the Tennessee Farm Bureau, the Farmers Co-op, and Tractor Supply Company. Other non-agricultural supporters were as varied as Meta, J&S Construction, Bristol Motor Speedway, and the Nashville Superspeedway. More than 150 sponsors participated in the event. All proceeds go to the non-profit Tennessee FFA Foundation to support the students involved in the agricultural youth leadership program.

The event was capped off, as is tradition, with the auction of the two Grand Champion Hams—the Country Ham and the Packer Style Ham. The two winning entries came from Bobby Parker of Woodbury (Country Ham) and Anna Whitt from Spring Hill (Packer Style Ham). The Country Ham sold for a record $20,000 to bidding partners H&R Agri-Power, an agricultural equipment dealer, and Catesa Farms, owned by George McDonald of Riddleton, TN. The Packer Style Ham went for $18,500 to the Tennessee Farm Bureau, well-known seed company Beck’s Hybrid, and John Deere dealer TriGreen Equipment.

The Tennessee State Fair continues through Saturday, August 26. For more information about the fair, visit tnstatefair.org. To learn more about Tennessee FFA, visit tnffa.org.

Smith County Agriculture News – By Katie Martin, Smith County Extension Agent

This summer has been unusual with our abundant rainfall causing lawns to stay looking greener for longer. However, if you aren’t satisfied with your current lawn, it might be time to renovate. Turf-type tall fescue is one of the most common grasses used in lawns in Tennessee, and now (late August through September) is the ideal time for sowing seeds. Don’t jump right to broadcasting seeds though, as there are several steps to consider first to ensure a successful renovation.

Whether it’s a garden or a lawn, the first step your local UT Extension Office is going to suggest is a soil test. A soil test can tell us about your soil pH as well as soil nutrients. Next, improve your chance of new fescue seedlings’ survival by killing existing sod with herbicide or tillage to decrease the desired seedlings’ competition with undesirable weeds and grasses.

There are several available options depending on the size and scope of your lawn renovation. For a small area, you may work up the ground with a hoe or hand tiller and reseed. An ideal option for a larger area would be a dethatching machine that not only loosens dead grasses and weeds but makes shallow grooves in the soil which can increase your seed-to-soil contact, greatly improving your chance of that seed germinating. After dethatching, evenly broadcast seed at a rate of 5-8 pounds per 1,000 square feet for tall fescue. Rake the seeds in lightly.

Similarly, an aerifier (coring machine) could also be used to thicken a tall fescue turf by creating holes where seed can fall once again for improved seed-to-soil contact. After crossing the area multiple times, broadcast tall fescue seed at 250 pounds per acre. Then drag the area with a section of chain link fence, a piece of carpet, or a steel drag mat.

After seeding, make sure to keep leaves blown off new grass, control weeds like crabgrass with a preemergent, and mow your lawn high for best results. Fertilizing and overseeding may be needed each fall to keep your lawn in pristine condition.

If we can be of assistance when it comes to lawncare or any other agriculture topic, contact the UT Extension office at 615-735-2900, or check out our library of publications at smith.tennessee.edu.

With people living longer, there are more being diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s. I have a personal concern about this condition due to the loss of my grandmother to this terrible condition as well as her mother, my great grandmother. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases.

Mayo Clinic lists several types of dementia that worsen and are not reversible.

1. Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Although not all causes of Alzheimer’s disease are known, experts do know that a small percentage are related to mutations of three genes.

2. Vascular dementia. This is the second most common type of dementia and is caused by damage to the vessels that supply blood to your brain. Blood vessel problems can cause strokes or damage the brain in other ways.

3. Lewy body dementia. Lewy bodies are abnormal balloon like clumps of protein that have been found in the brains of people with Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. This is one of the more common types of progressive dementia.

4. Frontotemporal dementia. This is a group of diseases characterized by the breakdown (degeneration) of nerve cells and their connections in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.

5. Mixed dementia. Autopsy studies of the brains of people 80 and older that had dementia indicate that many had a combination of several causes, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that describes a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of progressive dementia in older adults. Although there are aspects such as age and family history that cannot be changed, many lifestyle habits may help decrease the chances of dementia.

· Diet and exercise. Research shows that lack of exercise increases the risk of dementia.

· Heavy alcohol use. Drinking large amounts of alcohol may increase the risk of dementia.

· Cardiovascular risk factors. These include high blood pressure (hypertension) and high cholesterol.

· Depression. Although not yet well understood, late-life depression might indicate the development of dementia.

· Diabetes. Having diabetes may increase your risk of dementia, especially if it is poorly controlled.

· Smoking. Smoking might increase your risk of developing dementia and blood vessel (vascular) diseases.

· Sleep apnea. People who snore and have episodes where they frequently stop breathing while asleep may be at higher risk of developing dementia.

· Vitamin and nutritional deficiencies. Low levels of vitamin D, vitamin B-6. Vitamin B-12 and folate may increase your risk of dementia.

There is no proven way to prevent dementia, but there are steps you can take that might help.

· Keep your mind active.

· Be physically and socially active.

· Quit smoking.

· Get enough vitamins.

· Manage cardiovascular risk factors.

· Treat health conditions.

· Maintain a healthy diet.

· Get quality sleep.

Research continues for a cure for Alzheimer’s, but as for now good health practices can help with cognitive abilities and health concerns. Check out mayoclinic.org for more information on Dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Mayonnaise Rolls

2 cups self-rising flour

1 cup milk

1/2 cup mayonnaise

Mix all ingredients and distribute mixture evenly into muffin pan. Cook at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. Submitted by Linda Lankford, Elmwood/Chestnut Mound FCE Club.

Wildwood Resort and Marina in Granville, Tennessee awarded five employees an unrestricted scholarship to provide general assistance towards the cost of higher education. These awards are renewable annually as long as the student continues to demonstrate progress toward a degree.

The following students were awarded the Wildwood Employee Scholarship:

Maggie Apple
Kloey Brazle
Brooklyn Crowe
Emmie Huffines
Allison Vaughan

Each of these students are employed by Wildwood Resort & Marina in roles ranging from food service delivery to concierge. They live in nearby Chestnut Mount, Cookeville, Gainesboro, and Pleasant Shade representing Jackson, Putnam and Smith counties.

The award recipients are enrolled full-time in college degree programs at Lipscomb University, Tennessee Tech and the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. “Our employees are the key to our ability to provide our guests with the absolute best
experience,” said John Deane, Co-owner of Wildwood. “This group of employees are full-time, degree seeking students who are also dependably showing up at Wildwood and delivering a quality experience to our guests. As individuals and as a group, they are incredible.”

“We are proud of our students at Wildwood,” said Natasha Deane, Co-owner. “They give us hope for the future and represent the Upper Cumberland region with distinction. We are privileged to have these students as part of the Wildwood family.”

Wildwood Resort & Marina is a boutique resort and marina with 130 boat slips and 39 lodging accommodations, tri-toon boat, kayak, canoe, stand-up paddle board and paddle boat rentals as well as a fine dining Lakeside Restaurant. In addition to hosting couples and families for weekend getaways, Wildwood serves as a venue for executive corporate retreats, weddings and family reunions. The resort is located on beautiful Cordell Hull Lake 18 miles up the Cumberland River from Cordell Hull Lock & Dam. Wildwood enjoys close proximity to the historic town of Granville, Tennessee. For more information, go to www.VisitWildwood.com.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – On National Poll Worker Recruitment Day, Secretary of State Tre Hargett encourages Tennesseans to serve their community by signing up to be poll workers. 

“Poll workers are fundamental to running safe and secure elections in Tennessee,” said Secretary Hargett. “That is why I encourage all eligible Tennesseans to serve their community by signing up to be poll workers.”

During early voting and on Election Day, poll workers help polling sites in their community run smoothly by conducting various tasks, including greeting voters, answering questions, explaining how to cast a ballot, and counting votes.

Poll workers are paid for working during early voting and on Election Day, as well as for attending required training sessions.

Most Tennesseans are eligible to work as poll workers, regardless of political affiliation. 

Qualifications to Be a Tennessee Poll Worker:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Be a registered voter in the county if 18 or older
• Be able to read and write in the English language
• Not be a candidate or close relative of a candidate
• Not be supervised by a county or municipal elected worker on the ballot
  

Government Employees Who Can Serve as Poll Workers:

• All City, County and Metro employees (unless working directly under the supervision of an elected official on the ballot)
• State of Tennessee employees
• Federal employees – consult your Human Resources Department to ensure eligibility

“County election commissions are already preparing for the 2024 elections,” said Coordinator of Elections Mark Goins. “By serving as a poll worker, you will help voters confidently cast a ballot and protect the integrity of the ballot box.”

Established by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, National Poll Worker Recruitment Day aims to raise awareness about the important role poll officials play in elections and to help communities across the nation.

For the latest information about becoming a poll worker or Tennessee elections, follow the Secretary of State’s social media channels Twitter: @TNSecofState, Facebook: Tennessee Secretary of State and Instagram: @tnsecofstate.

To serve your community as a poll worker, apply now at GoVoteTN.gov.