Bridge Opens

THIS ISSUE:

6 Yard Sales 6 Help Wanted 219 Real Estate Listings 7 Auctions

A Prize-Winning Newspaper

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Presenting News And Views From around Smith County Volume 102 Number 16-USPS No. 092-180April 17, 2014

INSIDE ...

Where’s Scoop?

Entry Form, Contest Rules & Last Week’s Winner . . . . . . . . A8

Sports

24 pages

Carthage, Tennessee 37030

Single Copy 75¢

Added charges in arson fires Grand jury indicts woman for attempted first degree murder

By Eddie West

thage, was indicted by the grand jury on eight new charges in connection with setting a series of fires on March Micca Holder 27.

On Monday of last week, a sealed indictment

Staff Writer A Carthage woman, who law enforcement authorities allege admitted setting a series of fires and made threatening statements against a judge, faces additional charges after being indicted by the county’s grand jury.

Micca Nicole Holder, 33, Car-

was returned by the grand jury charging Holder with three counts of attempted fi rst degree murder, two counts of intentional burning of personal property, one count of vandalism between $1,000 and $10,000, one count of vandalism between $10,000 and $60,000, one count criminal attempt to commit aggravated arson and retaliation for past action.

The three counts of attempted fi rst degree murder allege Holder set fire to a house with three people inside. The house was located at 52 Nixon Hollow Lane in the Defeated community.

The retaliation for past action charge involves statements Holder allegedly made to investigators

See Indictment A10

Longtime State Power

Bridge work nearing completion

Goodpasture In Thriller . . . . . B1

By Eddie West

Key District 8A, 8AA wins Tigerettes, Jennings Top

Owls, Lady Owls Deliver Victories Over Cannon . . B1 Tigers Dominate Bulldogs In Doubleheader . . B1

News

Students Honored

School Board Recognizes GHS, SCHS Top Ten . . . . . . A10

Grand Jury

Staff Writer Reconstruction work on the Cordell Hull Bridge is nearing completion.

Work on the bridge is expected to be completed sometime during the month of June, according to state transportation department community relations representative Deanna Lambert, who said no specific date has been set for the opening.

The bridge is expected to open when reconstruction work has been completed.

Concrete replacement work on the structure has been completed, but there is still some steel framework to be done on the Carthage side of the bridge, Lambert said.

Painting of the steel framework is nearing completion.

The bridge will be silver, the same color as when constructed.

Guardrails and new light fixtures still have to be installed, Lambert said.

Also, paving has to be done at each end of

Issues Several

See Reconstruction A10

Sealed Indictments . . . . . . . . A12

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Reconstruction on the Cordell Hull Bridge is nearing completion. The bridge has been closed since 2007.

Briefly

APRIL SNOW SHOWER COUNTY Snow falling on blooming buttercups is fairly common, but snow while dogwood trees are in full bloom is rare. Light to heavy snow fell in much of the county, Tuesday morning (April 15). In higher elevations and in the northern section of the county

See April Page A10

Annual egg hunt planned The Smith County Rescue Squad’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held beginning at 3 p.m., Easter Sunday, April 20.

Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2, A3 Ruby Allison Jimmy Bane Mark Bennett Todd Driver Dorothy Enoch Patsy Graham Nancy Hodge H.F. Houston Robert Jennings Frances King Jackie Petty Mattie Pressley Frances Proffitt Tony Reagan Neil Smith Charles Strong

Public Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B6 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1-B3

Online

www.carthagecourier.com

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Staff Writer A number of offi ces and businesses will be closed for the Good

Friday holiday (April 18).

While state and county offi ces will be closed, federal offices

Taylor enters register race

See Holiday A10

Smith County High School will be celebrating “A Century on the Hill” as the high school turns 100.

The celebration will be from 2-4 p.m., Saturday, April 26.

The program will include a welcome at 2:15 p.m. and opening statements in the school’s auditorium. A cake cutting

will be held in the cafeteria at 3 p.m..

The event will feature performances by the Smith County After School Theater’s Oklahoma cast.

Memorabilia will be on display in the lobby of the school.

See High School A10

Sheriff Hopper seeks re-election

Norris seeking second term

Lynn Taylor announces her candidacy for register of deeds.

“I am announcing my candidacy for the position of register of deeds for Smith County. I have resided in Smith County’s 4th District in Rock City, along with my husband and fam- Lynn Taylor ily, for more than 30 years.

I would be honored to serve the wonderful people of Smith County in this position.

“I, Steve Hopper, would like to announce my candidacy for re-election to the office of sheriff of Smith County.

I am a 1978 graduate of Smith County High School.

My parents are Charles Hopper of Monoville and Mary (Dale) Roberts of Carthage. Steve Hopper My wife, Donna (Nesbitt), and I reside in the Riddleton community.

Our children are Michael, Stephanie, Charlie and Joel. Michael resides in Murfreesboro.

Smith County Clerk Clifa Norris announces her candidacy for re-election in the upcoming general election on August 7.

“First of all, I would like to sincerely thank the voters for allowing me to serve them for the past four Clifa Norris years. It has been a pleasure to accommodate the people of this county in this very busy office.

I, along with my staff, have strived to see

See Taylor A6

See Sheriff A6

See Norris A10

Print, Online, or Both

■ Weekly Special Advertisements ■ Breaking

See Easter A10

Businesses close Friday for holiday

By Eddie West

Auctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B7, B8 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . B6-B12

The event will be held on the soccer fields at Crump Paris Park in South Carthage. Age groups include

Smith County High School to celebrate 100 years Memorabilia sought

News

■ Classifieds

Malone noted as first female elected to county office

By Eddie West Staff Writer (The Courier is in its 100th year of publication.

The following is another in a series of articles commemorating the milestone in the newspaper’s history.)

One of the assets of a

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newspaper is the ability to record history.

Mrs. Annie Malone was the first woman elected to one of the county’s top offices, according to early editions of the Courier.

“First woman to ask for offi ce in county”, the headline read in the June

30, 1921 edition of the Courier.

The story read: “In this issue of the Carthage Courier will be found the announcement of Mrs. Annie Malone of Carthage for the office of

register for Smith County.

The recent legislature passed a law permitting women to vote and to hold office in Tennessee and Mrs. Malone is the

See Malone A6

A – 10

CARTHAGE COURIER APRIL 17, 2014

Gordonsville High School honor students

Holiday Friday From page – A1 including banks and the postal service will be open for business as usual.

Good Friday is considered a religious holiday commemorating the crucifi xion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.

In addition to county offices, convenient sites and the county landfill will

be closed. Schools will also be closed.

Several non-retail businesses and industries close for the holiday.

The Courier office will be closed Friday. Since the holiday falls on Friday, advertisement and news deadlines will remain noon, Monday for next week’s paper.

High school celebrates From page – A1 EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Gordonsville High School’s top ten students were recently recognized by the school board with medals. Front row from left include Rachel Anne Petty, Chad McDowell, Paige Lohorn, Charli Vaden, Chad Williams, Bailey Hall, Taylor Williams, Matthew Smith, Taylor Bush, Cori Jennings, Principal Ronnie Scudder. Second row, from left, Director of Schools Roger Lewis. School board members Robin Moore, Tommy Manning, Joe Taylor, Tim Maynard, Scotty Enoch, Michael Collins, William Barrick, Brian Smith.

Smith County High School honor students

Individuals are asked to bring items for a time capsule.

Building tours will also

take place.

Anyone who has memorabilia to share/display can contact Smith County High School at 735-9219.

April snowfall rare From page – A1 the snow temporarily accumulated on vehicles, trees and grass. The snow did not stick to roadways and

melted when it hit most surfaces. As temperatures warmed the snow became mixed with rain. Temperatures were in the 30 degree range, Tuesday morning.

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EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Smith County High School’s top ten students were recently recognized by the school board with medals. Front row, from left include Diana Phillips, Jake Azbell, Curtis Patel, Matthew Thomas, Addison Terry, Tiffiany Ledbetter, Elizabeth Trainham, Joseph Abou-Rahma, Brianna Felts, Principal Stephen Robbins. Back row, from left, Director of Schools Roger Lewis, school board members Robin Moore, Tommy Manning, Joe Taylor, Tim Maynard, Scotty Enoch, Michael Collins, William Barrick, Brian Smith. (Top ten student Brianna Gregory not pictured.)

Indictment leads to more charges in arson case From page – A1 threatening General Sessions Judge David Bass.

The arson charges are related to the three fires which were set in Carthage, Dixon Springs and Defeated.

Bond for Holder on the latest charges totals $500,000.

Holder is scheduled to appear in criminal court this week on the latest charges.

In the highly unusual case, law enforcement authorities say Holder turned herself in at the sheriff’s department claiming responsibility for the fi res shortly after allegedly setting fi re to a house in Defeated, the third and final fi re in the series of blazes.

Holder’s initial court appearance came on Monday of last week before Macon County General Sessions Judge Ken Witcher who set her bond for the attempted murder, aggravated arson and violation of probation charges at $252,000. Witcher also placed a hold on the suspect in anticipation of additional

charges from the grand jury.

As Holder made her initial court appearance, evidence in the case was being presented to the county’s grand jury, resulting in the sealed indictment.

Judge Witcher was appointed to hear the initial charges after Judge Bass recused himself from the case.

Investigators allege Holder made statements threatening physical harm to the judge and “would have set his house on fi re if she knew where he lived”, according to an arrest warrant.

During last Monday’s hearing before Judge Witcher, the public defender’s office was appointed to represent Holder.

Holder told the specially appointed judge she had no income, was on no government subsidies, owned no property and had no money.

Also during last Monday’s hearing, a preliminary hearing date of April 22 was set for the General Sessions Court charges.

As of Monday, Holder’s General Sessions Court charges of attempted homicide, aggravated arson and violation of probation remained active, despite new charges included in the sealed indictment.

The initial fire which Holder has been charged with setting was reported shortly before 6 a.m. (March 27) at the 411 College Avenue East home of Rosie Cannon.

Holder is accused of setting fire to a Chevrolet Impala belonging to Cannon, resulting in damage between $1,000 and $10,00, according to court documents.

Holder is also accused of setting fire to a Kia Rio at the same residence also owned

by Cannon resulting in between $10,000 and $60,000 in damage, according to court documents.

Holder is also accused of setting fi re to a pickup truck parked on a carport at the home of Jackie Oldham in the Dixon Springs community.

While the truck was heavily damaged, two good Samaritans pulled the vehicle away from the house, preventing substantial damage to the structure.

A short time after the Dixon Springs fire, Holder allegedly told law enforcement authorities she set fi re to the house in Defeated.

The blaze resulted in substantial damage to the siding of the house before the flames were extinguished.

According to an arrest warrant, Holder told investigators she used lighter fl uid in the first two fires and went to Walmart and purchased a gasoline can and gasoline for the third fi re in Defeated at the home of James Johnson.

In the final fi re, investigators say Holder told them she “poured gasoline on the front porch of the residence and around the bedroom window and set the fire”.

Law enforcement authorities say the fires were spurred by a domestic dispute.

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Reconstruction of bridge nears completion From page – A1 the bridge which will have a concrete surface.

Government officials had optimistically hoped the re-

construction work would be completed by the end of May. Representative Terri Lynn Weaver is expected to meet with state transportation officials this week for an update

on local projects including the bridge work.

When work on the bridge construction has been completed, a ribbon cutting ceremony is expected to take

place.

The governor is also expected to be invited to the reopening.

The bridge has been closed since 2007.

Easter egg hunt at Crump Paris Park Sunday From page – A1 infant through age three; four year olds through eight year old and nine year olds through 12 year olds. There will be prizes awarded for fi nding the gold and silver egg in each group. The event is free and open to the public. In the event of rain,

the egg hunt will be held at the same time and location on Sunday, April 27. The Smith County Rescue Squad’s annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held beginning at 3 p.m., Easter Sunday, April 20.

The event will be held on the soccer fields at Crump Paris Park in South Carthage. Age groups include infant through

age three; four year olds through eight year old and nine year olds through 12 year olds. There will be prizes awarded for finding the gold and silver egg in each group. The event is free and open to the public. In the event of rain, the egg hunt will be held at the same time and location on Sunday, April 27.

Norris seeking second term as county clerk From page – A1 that everyone has been treated friendly and accommodated in a professional manner. I often remind my staff and myself that this office belongs to the good people of this county.

Over the past four years, I have tried to fi nd ways to

better utilize any and all technology which has been offered to us by the state. We have started printing titles which has so far generated $9,152 from January 2013 through December 2013 for our county.

I feel it is important to find ways not only to help the people of the county but to

increase the revenue for the county.

As many of you know, I have and will continue to accommodate people after hours and on weekends and will continue to do so in this capacity.

Over the next few months, I will continue to try to run this offi ce in a professional

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and efficient manner and will also fi nd time to shake your hand and thank you for the past four years and ask for your vote, support and influence once again to be able to continue to serve as your county clerk.

If I should miss you, please accept this as my formal request for your vote.”

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THIS ISSUE:

13 Yard Sales 9 Help Wanted 236 Real Estate Listings 3 Auctions

A Prize-Winning Newspaper

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■ Save-A-Lot

■ Dollar General

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■ Wilson Living Magazine

Presenting News And Views From around Smith County Volume 102 Number 20-USPS No. 092-180May 15, 2014

INSIDE ...

Where’s Scoop?

Entry Form, Contest Rules & Last Week’s Winner . . . . . . . . A6

$350M Rehabbing Of Center Hill Dam Rolls With The Flow SPECIAL FEATURE BY KEN BECK

Carthage, Tennessee 37030

36 pages

Single Copy 75¢

Bridge work enters final stages

By Eddie West Staff Writer Employees with Wilson County’s Lojac Construction Company removed asphalt leading to the Cordell Hull Bridge, Monday morning.

Repaving approaches to the bridge is one of the final steps of the structure’s reconstruction which is entering its final stages.

Transportation offi cials anticipate the bridge opening in June.

However, any date is subject to change based on variables associated with construction projects.

According to state offi cials, the contractor has until the end of June to finish the reconstruction.

Concrete replacement work on the structure has

See Bridge A9

. . . . . . . . A10 - A11

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

A machine grinds up asphalt at the Carthage end of the Cordell Hull Bridge, Monday morning, as approaches to each end of the bridge were repaved as part of the ongoing reconstruction of the structure.

Shortfall in revenue at landfill discussed Garbage disposal fee seen as likely way to offset costs

By Eddie West Staff Writer

Sports

For years residents have disposed of their garbage without cost

at convenient sites.

Because of a shortfall in revenue and increasing landfi ll costs, free disposal of household garbage will likely come to an end in the

Tigerettes Continue Post-Season Spree

months ahead.

The county’s Solid Waste Committee has been given the authority by the county commission to development a plan which will

G’ville Lands 5th Sub-State Berth . . . . . . . B1 Jennings’ Arm, Inman’s HR Drive Gordonsville To Back-To-Back

By Eddie West

8A Titles. . . . . . B1

Staff Writer Newly appointed Help Center Director Pamela Ferriss’ resume didn’t include the typical list of prestigious accolades nor an impressive list of previous positions of employment generally associated with applications for a director’s position.

But the 44-yearold Carthage resident possessed something which resonated with the Smith County Help Center’s board of director s—the will to overcome a troubled past.

At one time, she sat on the opposite side

Road Ends For Area Teams Tigers 6-Run Inning Not Enough In Loss To Jackets . . . B1 Macon Co.’s Late Rally Stumps Owls In 9 Innings . . . . B1

News Rotary Club

Pancake Breakfast Photos . . . A9

Area Elementary Schools Honor Valedictorians, Salutatorians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A12

See Ferriss A9

To All Candidates COUNTY The Courier will continue publishing candidate announcements including local offi ces (county departments, school board, commissioners), district and state offi ces as news items through its May 22 edition. The deadline for that edition is noon, Monday,

See Commissioners A7

Help Center’s director overcame obstacles leading to her new career

Prichard Belts 3B, HR As

Briefly

result in additional revenue for the landfi ll. Any plan will likely involve some form of household

Graduation 2014 inside The annual graduation section, honoring graduates at each of the county’s two high schools, is located inside this week’s edition of the Courier.

The special section includes best wishes to graduates from area busi-

nesses and individuals.

Graduation will be held at Gordonsville High School beginning at 7 p.m., Friday.

At Smith County High School, graduation will be held beginning at 10 a.m., Saturday.

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Pamela Ferriss, center, is the new director of the Smith County Help Center. From left are Jill Garner, Help Center board member, Ferriss, and Emmanuel House Director Kim Seator.

Upper Cumberland Electric board of directors election this summer

By Eddie West Staff Writer Four seats on the Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation Board

of Directors will be up for election this summer.

One of the positions includes the vacant seat once held by the late Robert (Bob) Woodard, who

passed away last year.

The unexpired position will be for a two year term.

The other three positions

See Upper A9

See Candidate Page A7 Auctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B8, B12 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . B5-B12 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2 Joyce Christensen Tom Padgett Dortha Williams

Public Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1-B3

Lankford running for sheriff

Williams seeks re-election

Ronnie Lankford announces his candidacy for sheriff.

“I would like to take this opportunity to announce my candidacy for the offi ce of sheriff. I am currently serving as a ser-

Trustee Lee Ann Williams announces her candidacy for re-election.

“I would like to announce my candidacy for your Smith County Trustee. I have had the great pleasure of serving Smith

geant with the Gordonsville Police Department.

I am married to Christy Lankford and we have two children —Davie Lankford, 17, and Carrie Ann

See Lankford A7

Lankford

County as trustee since 1998. During my time in office, I have strived to make the office more effi cient by adding a new tax accounting system, a new

See Williams A7

Williams

Soldier’s story, speed limit, street fair

By Eddie West Staff Writer Few Smith County residents have ever had their story told in the New York Times.

We are Riverview

PRIVATE COMFORT HEAL

During World War I, Lancaster resident Lofton Fisher was interviewed by a Times reporter covering World War I. The story appeared in the Times in February of 1919.

Fisher was struck by a German

machine gun bullet which fractured his leg.

Fisher lay in the mud 12 hours, unattended, while machine gun bullets

See Soldier A7

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MAY 15, 2014

Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast Scenes EDDIE WEST/COURIER

The Rotary Club held its annual pancake breakfast Friday and Saturday. The fund-raising event was held on Upper Ferry Road next to the community center/ chamber of commerce building.

CARTHAGE COURIER A – 9

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DAR winner recognized EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Smith County Middle School eighth grader Matthew Lynn (seated center first row) was named winner of the DAR American History Essay Award. Lynn, recently recognized by the county’s school board, received the state of Tennessee History medal and a $50 cash award for his American History Essay. Lynn’s essay was selected as the winning essay for the Southeastern Division in the National DAR American History Essay competition. Matthew’s teacher is Cara Fleenor. The Caney Fork DAR chapter sponsored the event. Front row from left, School Board Chairman Michael Collins, Lynn, Director of Schools Roger Lewis. Second row from left, school board members Joe Taylor, Tommy Manning, Brian Smith, Tim Maynard.

Back row from left, school board members Scotty Enoch, Robin Moore, William Barrick.

Mark Jones county commission candidate “I, Mark Jones, would like to formally announce my candidacy for Smith County commissioner for District 1.

I reside in the Kempville community with my wife Ashlee Dixon Jones, my three daughters, Natalie, Alexis, Emry and my son, Knox. My family is very active in church activities and sports within our county. We attend and are members at a Christian church, Kempville Chapel.

The majority of my adult life I have worked in law enforcement, with the past twelve years on the Tennessee Department of Safety as a state trooper. Along with owning a storage fa-

cility and investment properties in Smith County, for the past two years I have served as Director of the United We Stand Christian Youth Team.

I am asking for your support in electing me as one of our county commissioners. My experience in successful business will help me direct our county in fi nancial success while my experience in law enforcement will assist in keeping the decisions of the commission legal and focused on the issues. My commitment to our children will push long term goals for generations to come. I am asking for your vote on August 7.

Thank You, Mark Jones.”

Ferriss named new director at Help Center From page – A1 of the desk from which she now sees clients in need of life’s basic necessities such as shelter, food and assistance with utility bills.

Instead of asking for help, as director of the center Ferriss is able to reach out to Smith County’s needy.

Ferriss dropped out of school as a teenager, opting for marriage instead of an education, a job rather than a career.

What she once envisioned as a better life turned out to be a path which led her on a downward spiral, including a failed marriage and a criminal record.

“I was an addict, a felon.

I had hit rock bottom. I was about to be six feet under,” recalls Ferriss, who reached out to Emmanuel House’s Director Kim Seator in July of 2010.

When she picked up a random telephone call from

Ferriss four years ago, Seator found a soul in need.

Seator recalled responding,“I’ll be there in thirty minutes”.

Ferriss had come to know Seator through her ministry with inmates at the county jail.

Providing more than a shelter, Emmanuel House requires its residents to follow a life improving path to independence.

“All of our ladies have to set goals. They must have some type of plan for their life. They are required to have some type of employment or work toward a GED if they do not have a high school diploma,” explains Seator.

Emmanuel House also requires residents to volunteer for community work, small steps toward their ultimate goal of transitioning to life outside the shelter.

In 2011, Ferriss earned her GED and discovered a fondness for studying she had lost as a teenager.

While living at Emmanuel House, Ferriss earned an associates degree in social work, becoming the first person in her family to earn a degree.

While working a forty hour week, Ferriss looks to earn a bachelors degree by attending school at night.

During the past three years, Ferriss has been house manager at Emmanuel House.

As house manager, Ferriss was responsible for overseeing the homeless shelter’s deli, worked in case management and was responsible for transportation for its residents, Seator explained.

Ferriss handled scheduling and tours of the shelter.

As the name suggests, Emmanuel House is a faith-based shelter founded in 2008.

“I’m an example of what God can do in someone’s life,” says Ferriss.

At the Help Center, Ferriss sassumed the position which was held for several years by Sherrell White who took a

position with a private business in November of last year.

Until recently, Help Center board members Jill Garner and Diana Dillehay had been filling White’s position.

“We didn’t want to find the next person for the position, we wanted to fi nd the right person for the job,” says Garner. “Pam has the degree and the work experience. She exemplifies our motto—A Hand up Not a Hand out. She has been there and turned things around. She is an example to our clients.”

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Founded in 2002 by the Smith County Ministerial Alliance, the Help Center is funded through community donations and money raised from donated items sold in the Help Center’s store.

For those low to no income who quality, the center provides certain assistance with utility bills, food assistance and rent deposits.

Help Center clients have to reside within the county.

Bridge reconstruction entering final stages From page – A1 been completed for several weeks.

In recent weeks, construction crews have been working on the steel framework.

Also, the painting of the steel framework is nearing completion.

The bridge will be silver, the same color as when constructed.

Miscellaneous work such as installing guardrails and light fi xtures has been taking place in recent weeks.

Government offi cials had hoped the reconstruction work would be completed by the end of May.

When work has been completed, a ribbon cutting ceremony is expected to take place.

Governor Bill Haslam has an open invitation to the event.

Whether or not the governor can attend will depend on his schedule.

The bridge has been closed for more than six years.

After being closed several times for inspection from the summer of 2007 until December 2007, the bridge has been barricaded since December 13 of 2007.

Before being barricaded, the bridge was inspected by state engineers for several hours on December 10 and De-

cember 11 (2007).

When barricaded, transportation officials initially said the bridge would be closed for a seven day inspection.

Transportation officials later said the bridge was undergoing a 30 day review, during which time a decision would be made as to whether the bridge would reopen or be closed indefinitely.

In July of 2007, the bridge was temporarily closed for a few days during an inspection by state transportation engineers.

The bridge was temporarily closed for a few days again in November of the same year.

Upper Cumberland Electric board election From page – A1 include terms which expire this year in District One, District Two and District Four.

The District One seat which expires is now held by Morris “Moose” Tyree II. District One consists of areas served by the cooperative in Smith,

DeKalb, Macon and Wilson counties.

The District Two seat which expires is held by Alan Pippin. District Two consists of areas served by the cooperative in Putnam and White counties.

The District Four seat is now held by Ben Underwood.

District Four consists of the area served by the cooperative in Jackson County.

Any board of directors candidate must fi le a qualifying petition with the secretary of the cooperative, Ben Underwood, or with the cooperative’s general manager, Jimmy Gregory, on or before

June 15.

The election will be held from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. on August 23.

The board of directors has nine members.

Three terms expire each year. District offi ces are in South Carthage, Cookeville, Livingston and Gainesboro.

Subscribe to the Carthage Courier today •In County—$22 •Out of County—$25 •Out of State—$29

THIS ISSUE:

5 Yard Sales 8 Help Wanted 222 Real Estate Listings 7 Auctions

A Prize-Winning Newspaper

~

INSERTS:

UT-TPA Press Awards 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

■ Sav-Way Grocery ■ Tractor Supply

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Presenting News And Views From around Smith County Volume 102 Number 21-USPS No. 092-180May 22, 2014

Carthage, Tennessee 37030

28 pages

Single Copy 75¢

Back To One charged after foot pursuit STATE

By Eddie West Staff Writer

Police were involved in a foot pursuit, Thursday morning, in Carthage.

The pursuit took place in the Industrial Drive and Project Circle vicinity before the suspect was apprehended.

Jeremy D. Pewitt, 20, Madison, has been charged with evading arrest and cited for criminal trespassing.

The man was apparently squatting in a residence located at 121 West Jefferson Avenue.

The incident began when the mobile home’s owner, Michael Rankin, went to check on his rental property and discovered an individual inside the mobile home.

See Suspect A8

2013 Runner-up Tigerettes eye another run State Softball Tournament Class A Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . B1 Tigerettes Knock Off Whitwell In Sub-State . . . . . . . . B1 4-A Champs . . .With Ease; Tigerettes Waltz . . . . . . . . . . B1

INSIDE ...

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Carthage police and sheriff department offi cers located a man near Industrial Drive and Swope Road in Carthage, Thursday morning. The man fled from police into a wooded area.

Officials plan for bridge opening

By Eddie West Staff Writer State transportation officials are planning a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Cordell Hull Bridge during the first week in July.

Friday, transportation officials were eyeing a tentative date likely between July 1-3, according to Heather Jensen,

Graduation Smiles

community relations officer for region three.

The contractor has until June 30 to complete the reconstruction project.

Transportation officials said a defi nite date for a ribbon cutting ceremony could be set as soon as this week.

Transportation offi cials, state rep-

See Transportation A8

Where’s Scoop? Annual bluegrass

Entry Form, Contest Rules & Last Week’s Winner . . . . . . . . A6

festival nearing

By Eddie West Staff Writer

News

Race For Jordan 2014 Winner’s Page . . . . . . . . . B5

2014 Election Candidate Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . A10

Briefly

The annual Defeated Creek Bluegrass Festival is nearing.

This year’s event will be held June 13-14.

The annual bluegrass festival fea-

tures two nights of live music and dancing as well as food and craft booths and youth activities.

This year’s festival will feature Tennessee Central, Tom Brantley & Missionary Ridge, Bluegrass Solu-

See Defeated A8

Weaver seeks re-election State Representative Terri Lynn Weaver announces her re-election campaign.

“What an honor and privilege to work

for the good folks of DeKalb, Smith, Trousdale and Sumner counties in the Tennessee House of Representatives, District 40. Pledging to continue the fi ght for principles of freedom and liberty as guaranteed in our Consti-

See Weaver A8

Weaver

HOLIDAY DEADLINES

COUNTY The Courier offi ce will be closed Monday, May 26, for Memorial Day. The holiday closing will mean an early deadline for advertising and news items for next week’s paper.

The early deadline is noon, Friday, May 23.

Auctions . . . . . . . . . B10, B12, B16 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . B8-B16 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2, A3 Christine Cassity Mabel Farmer Tommy Gregory Herbert Grisham Helen Maynard Mary Myers Ellie Stokes Dortha Williams

Public Notices . . . . . . B9, B10, B11 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1-B4

England enters board race “I, Kenny England, would like to announce my candidacy for Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Board England of Directors. The

election will be to fi ll the seat of the late Mr. Bob Woodard.

I have been married for 30 years to Donna Woodard England from the Defeated community. We have three

See England A11

Collins runs for judgeship “I, Michael Collins, would like to announce my candidacy for general sessions judge of Smith County. I am excited to be Collins running for judge not

only because so many have encouraged me to do so, but because I know I can make a positive impact on our community in that important position.

As judge I want to hold those who

See Collins A8

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

(Top photo) Two Gordonsville High School students share a final hug before Friday night’s graduation ceremony. (Bottom photo) Two Smith County High School students pose for a picture before Saturday morning’s graduation ceremony. (See additional photos inside.)

Smith candidacy S a r a h Marie Smith officially announces her candidacy for Tennessee House of Representa- Smith

tives in the 40th District.

“It would be an honor and privilege to serve as your state representative,” said Smith. “I would deeply appreciate your vote and your

See Smith A11

Most every community once had school

By Eddie West Staff Writer Today, the county has nine schools.

That wasn’t the case in 1923 when

SOUTH CARTHAGE

SAV-WAY A BETTER WAY TO SAVE

Todd & Angela Appreciate Your Business

there was a school in most every community.

Also, some schools charged tuition.

Here’s a list of schools and tuitions which appeared in the 1923 edition of

the Courier.

Turkey Creek—$2.20; Tanglewood—$2.60; McClure’s Bend—

See Schools A9

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A–8

CARTHAGE COURIER MAY 22, 2014

Collins makes bid for general sessions judge

From page – A1 are found guilty of breaking the law accountable for their actions. I believe the general session court sets the tone for our community standard of criminal justice. As I have gone through our community talking with citizens I have learned that so many of you want to set a stronger tone for justice in Smith County.

As judge, I want to manage the docket in such a way that allows law enforcement officers to do more of what we expect them to do; which is to serve and protect by being on the roads and in the community, as opposed to spending all their time sitting in court.

My management of the court docket will save thousands of dollars for the taxpayers of Smith County, the town of Carthage, the town of Gordonsville and the town of South Carthage. The taxpayer dollars now spent paying offi cers to sit in court would be freed up to allow them to protect our community.

I am a lifelong resident of Smith County. My mother

was Cindy Gilbert Collins.

She passed away when I was eleven years old after she battled cancer for several years.

My father is Harold ‘Slick’ Collins and my step-mother is Wanda Campbell Collins.

Both my dad and step-mom have been involved in Little League and Minor League baseball for nearly three decades.

I am married to Selicia Case Collins. She has been a special education teacher in Smith County for over ten years. My son, Case Collins, is almost seven years old.

Case is active in sports and he is just finishing kindergarten at Carthage Elementary. My daughter, Lucy Collins, just turned two years old and is named after my mother.

My family attends First Baptist Church in Carthage.

There I serve as a deacon, a Sunday school teacher and as leader of our children’s Bible club called Awana. Last month, while at our Awana club my son Case accepted the Lord as his Saviour and was baptized this past week.

I am not just excited and

motivated to become the general sessions judge in Smith County, I am also highly qualifi ed. I attended Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) where I graduated with honors with a Bachelors of Science degree in criminal justice administration. All those classes I took while at MTSU helped me understand all the parts of our Criminal Justice System here in Smith County.

After college, I attended the University of Memphis where I received a Juris Doctorate. My law degree allowed me to sit for, take, and pass the bar exam allowing me to become a lawyer.

I have practiced law in Smith County for over 13 years. In my time as a practicing attorney I have focused my practice on criminal law as well as domestic and juvenile issues. These areas of law have prepared me to be general sessions judge.

I have also served as a school board member in Smith County, with my last two years on the board serving as the board chairman. I

believe being a member of the school board is an important function, but I believe I could have a greater impact in our community as general sessions judge.

As a practicing attorney and a school board member I have dealt directly with law enforcement members, with the district attorney’s office, with local attorneys, with probation offi cers, with the bondsmen, with the clerk’s office, with teachers, with our principals and our schools. As judge, I will support law enforcement officers, teachers, and principals and I will continue to support safety in our community and our schools.

My experiences have combined to make me uniquely qualified to be the general sessions judge of Smith County. As judge, I will apply my morals and experiences in such a way that will allow me to follow the law and help protect our community, our schools, and our children.

I would appreciate your support and your vote. Thank you.”

Weaver seeking re-election to state office From page – A1 tution, I am mindful that this elected offi ce belongs to our community and I remain committed to being a responsive and effective voice for those I represent in Nashville. My platform is based on personal responsibility, strong families, and local control. Working to reduce government spending and regulations by giving tax relief to middle class families and small businesses, I believe that Tennesseans can grow the economy by spending and investing their money more wisely than the government.”

Representative Weaver was elected in 2008. A gospel singer/songwriter who felt called to extend her service from touring all over the country and beyond to the district borders of the fortieth district, Weaver continues to serve her constituents, believing that it is important to communicate with and listen to those she represents. Her Friday Coffee Conversations in the district are well attended, giving her the opportunity to connect on issues of concern. One thing

for certain, you will fi nd her at numerous community events participating and supporting those local causes important to her district.

During the recent General Assembly, Representative Weaver has proven you can get things done without compromising conservative principles and the family values we hold dear. She ran for office to help people and offer solutions to the challenges our state faces while securing a voting record that reflects the people she serves. Working closely with city and county leaders, Representative Weaver has taken leadership roles working as a team player by bringing jobs and infrastructure projects to Trousdale, Smith, DeKalb and Sumner counties.

Tennessee remains the lowest debt state in the nation, best infrastructure without debt in the nation, number one in the nation for automotive manufacturing, ranked in the top fi ve states with best business climate, however, Tennessee is number one in the nation with a prescription drug epidemic that brings over 912 babies per year born addicted to illegal narcotics. Sponsoring and passing

major legislation to promote treatment for pregnant women through affirmative drug court diversion, Representative Weaver continues to work passionately with various entities whose main mission statement is restoring families affected by drugs.

Representative Weaver and her husband have been married 35 years. A former Cleveland Indians baseball player, Mike remains his wife’s number one fan both in the arena of public service and on the stage performing music. Their son Justin continues the family heritage and is the lead guitar player for Wynonna Judd, traveling world wide with various ‘big wigs’ of the music industry. But most importantly Justin and his wife Sunshine have made Representative Weaver a proud grandmother to West and Wynn. A wife, a mother, a grandmother and a citizen of District 40 who shall continue to do all in her power to be worthy of the confidence expressed by those in Smith, DeKalb, Trousdale and Sumner County, deeply appreciates your support, prayers and vote in the General election on November 4th, 2014. Blessings.”

tions and The Bilbreys.

Square dancing and clogging will take place each night, performed by RythmN-Motion.

Also, the dance stage is set up for audience participation.

During the day Saturday, an antique car and tractor show will be held.

The car and tractor show was added to the festival a

few years ago. There is no admission to the antique car and tractor show.

Entertainment will begin each at 7 p.m. The event will take place at the Defeated Creek Marina located at the

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Defeated Creek Bluegrass Festival nears From page – A1

th

2201 West Jackson St. Cookeville, Tennessee (931) 525-6584

Defeated Creek Campground.

Admission is $3 per person.

Funds benefi t the Defeated Creek Fire Department.

Those attending the festival are encouraged to bring a lawn chair for seating.

Transportation officials plan bridge opening From page – A1 resentatives and (if possible) Governor Bill Haslam are expected to attend the ceremony. Reconstruction is nearing completion, as approaches on each side of the bridge were paved last week.

Painting of the bridge on the Carthage side is taking place.

Installation of electrical/lighting, lattice work and a general cleaning are taking place as fi nal stages of the reconstruction project, according to Jensen, noting fi nal work is “weather dependent”.

In August of 2011, the transportation department awarded the reconstruction contract to Mid-State Construction Company of Livingston, low bidder for the project at $9.5 million.

Initially, the bridge reconstruction project was scheduled to be completed

in November of 2013.

The contractor was given an extension on the project several months ago.

The bridge will be silver, the same color as when constructed.

The bridge has been closed for more than six years.

After being closed several times for inspection from the summer of 2007 until December 2007, the bridge has been barricaded since December 13 of 2007.

Before being barricaded, the bridge was inspected by state engineers for several hours on December 10 and December 11 (2007).

When barricaded, transportation officials initially said the bridge would be closed for a seven day inspection.

Transportation officials later said the bridge was undergoing a 30 day review, during which time a decision would be made as to whether the bridge would

reopen or be closed indefinitely.

Transportation officials determined the bridge was in need of extensive repair work and remained closed.

According to the transportation department, the inspection revealed significant deterioration to the bridge’s steel truss, spans and connections.

The project has included removing and replacing the bridge’s concrete deck, replacement of bridge rails, repairs to various steel sections of the bridge, bearing replacement and repairs to bridge piers.

Prior to the December 2007 closing of the bridge, in July of 2007, the structure was temporarily closed for a few days during an inspection by state transportation engineers.

The bridge was temporarily closed for a few days again in November of the same year.

The bridge opened in 1936.

Saturday, June 7, 2014 9:00 am - 6:00 p.m.

Red Boiling Springs, TN • Jeff Poppin, The Barefoot Farmer • Ila Hatter, the Lady of the Forest • The Village at the Log Cabin • Festival Quilt Show • Arts & Crafts Market • Children’s area • Palace Entertainment Stage

Suspect caught by police during foot pursuit From page – A1 Rankin asked the man to step outside while he contacted the police.

As Rankin was contacting police, the man fled on foot.

Pewitt was spotted by Carthage Police Chief John Hogan around 9:45 a.m. in a field behind the Carthage Church

of Christ.

Chief Hogan asked the individual to halt, but he fl ed toward a wooded area with dense undergrowth between Project Circle and Industrial Drive.

Chief Hogan and sheriff’s department Deputy Rick Mahlor, who had arrived on the scene as backup, began a foot pursuit of the suspect.

While the search was taking place, the suspect was reported knocking on the front door of a residence on Project Circle and later sitting on a front porch.

Sheriff’s department Lt. Ronnie Maynard also joined the search.

In addition, sheriff’s department detectives Kit Jenkins and Shannon Hunt re-

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sponded to the call.

Around 10 a.m., the suspect was located and apprehended on Industrial Drive near Swope Road.

Pewitt was transported to the county jail.

Bond was set at $1,500.

Pewitt is to appear in General Sessions Court on May 29.

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THIS ISSUE:

8 Yard Sales 8 Help Wanted 224 Real Estate Listings 3 Auctions

A Prize-Winning Newspaper

~

INSERTS:

UT-TPA Press Awards 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

■ Sav-Way Grocery

■ Smith County Fair

■ Hardee’s ■ Subway

Presenting News And Views From around Smith County Volume 102 Number 26-USPS No. 092-180June 26, 2014

INSIDE ...

Where’s Scoop?

Entry Form, Contest Rules & Last Week’s Winner . . . . . . . . A8

Sports 2014 Championship Red Sox, Parliment “Squeeze”

By Orioles For Sr. League Title . . B1

Batting For Smith County Local Leagues Announce All-Star Selections, Schedules . . . . . . . B1

News Local Interests

Public Meeting On Proposed Garbage Disposal Fee . . . . . . . A7

Health Department Looks To Provide Added Services At Schools . . . . . . . . . A7

Briefly

LANCASTER PARADE LANCASTER The Lancaster Fourth of July parade, community gathering and fireworks show is set for this Sunday (June 29.

The event will take place from 6-9 p.m., beginning with a parade along Highway 141 through Lancaster.

Lineup for the parade begins at 5 p.m. on the Alan Mason farm. The parade

See Fourth Page A10

MEMORIAL BLOOD DRIVE GORDONSVILLE In loving memory of Mike Finley.

From 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Monday, June 30 at Gordonsville Elementary School Gym. To schedule an appointment, see ad on page A-5.

COMMUNITY REUNION HICKMAN An inaugural Hickman Ice Cream Party Community Reunion has been planned “on the square” for July 4. The event, to begin at 6 p.m., is still evolving from a Facebook page called “Best Of Hickman”.

Any updates will be available at that site. Plan to bring your chair, share your stories and bring old photos of friends, family and events that happened in or around Hickman.

Honorary guests will be Hickman residents Clarence & Mary Etta Nixon who hand-dipped ice cream for three generations of kids at the former Nixon-Paschall General Merchandise store.

24 pages

Carthage, Tennessee 37030

Single Copy 75¢

Bridge opens next week

By Eddie West

Carthage side of the bridge.

Planning for the event was Staff Writer still underway this week.

After being closed for more The reconstruction conthan six years, transportation tract ends June 30 when all officials say the Cordell Hull work is expected to be comBridge will open to traffic pleted. following a ceremony set for Last month, transportation Wednesday (July 2). officials announced they were A ceremony including a eying a tentative date between ribbon cutting is set for 2 p.m. July 1-3 for a ribbon cutting and the bridge will open to ceremony. traffi c immediately followFinal work on the reconing the ceremony, according struction project has been to transportation communi- taking place in recent weeks. ty relations offi cer Heather Final stages have included Jensen. completing painting, paving Representatives from the approaches to the bridge, Tennessee Department of installing lighting and fi nal Transportation, state and steel work. local legislators and officials In August of 2011, the are expected to take part in See Bridge A10 the ceremony planned for the

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Workers make final repairs to the Cordell Hull Bridge. The state’s transportation department says the bridge will open next Wednesday afternoon following a ceremony.

Fair features rally Indictments Tabloid inside in high dollar theft cases

By Eddie West Staff Writer

By Eddie West Staff Writer Sealed indictments were returned by the grand jury in three separate cases involving high dollar thefts.

The sealed indictments were returned against three individuals during a special session of the grand jury held on June 13.

The unrelated indictments

involve the theft of vehicles and cash.

Anna M. Gammons, 29, Carthage was indicted on a charge of theft of property between $10,000 and $60,000.

The indictment alleges Gammons “exercised control over money between $10,000 and $60,000 from November 1,

Political candidates can argue their cause at this year’s Smith County Fair.

One of the new events at this year’s county fair is the “Rally on the River”, an old-fashioned political rally.

Fair officials are encouraging all candidates in the August and November elections to take part in the event and bring their The Smith County Fair tabloid is located supporters. inside.

“Rally on the River” will take place at the Carson Maxwell Livestock Arena beginning at 7 p.m., Tuesday,

See Indictments A10

See Fair A10

Justice served

K-9 responsible for drug seizures, arrests (The following is a story about how a once castaway canine, which recently passed away, became a public servant, responsible for the confi scation of hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal drugs and the arrest of numerous individuals on charges ranging from misdemeanor to

federal felony charges.)

As a road trooper stationed in Smith County (Cookeville District) in 2001, Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) Trooper Shannon Brinkley was accepted into K-9 handler school for a drug detector dog.

At times, the highway patrol obtains their K-9’s

Horse show held

from local kennels and/ or dog pounds (rescue shelters).

The highway patrol K-9 training staff was in the process of locating dogs for an upcoming class when Lebanon’s animal control contacted David Frost, who at the time was the highway patrol’s main K-9 train-

er, along with Sgt. Chuck Williams.

Lebanon’s animal control unit picked up two black labrador retrievers and one yellow lab, which if not adopted would have to be euthanized. Trooper Brinkley and Frost met at the Leb-

See Justice A10 Justice

Carthage selected to participate in Tennessee Downtowns program

By Eddie West Staff Writer Carthage is one of six communities designated for the

Tennessee Downtowns program.

Communities selected to participate in the Tennessee Downtowns program will form

a volunteer committee of local citizens who will participate in a two-year training curriculum supported by the National Main

See Carthage A10

Relay For Life Saturday night

By Eddie West

Auctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B8, B12 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . B6-B12 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2

Staff Writer Relay For Life will take place Saturday at the county’s

Charles Butler Nell Climer Flossie Gregory Pink Mahaney, Jr. Ronnie Mayberry Vic Nostrand, Jr. Cheryl Ray James Sadler

agriculture center.

The annual event is a fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society.

The event includes live en-

tertainment and a variety of activities for all ages.

Events begin at 5 p.m. and

See Relay A10

Communities get electricity

Public Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B7

By Eddie West Staff Writer EDDIE WEST/COURIER

The 50th annual Carthage Civitan Club Horse Show was held Friday night.

We are Riverview

BIGGER BETTER FASTER

In 1926, electricity was being expanded to communities surrounding Carthage and into other

counties by the Tennessee Power Company.

By late spring of 1926, the company had almost completed a new

See Electricity A10

MyRiverviewMedical.com • (615) 735-1560

A – 10

CARTHAGE COURIER JUNE 26, 2014

Carthage selected as part of program From page – A1

Street Center.

The curriculum is designed to teach citizens about comprehensive, sustainable downtown revitalization and historic preservation.

The training includes webinars, workshops and a $15,000 reimbursable grant to complete individualized downtown development projects.

In recent years steps have been taken to improve the aesthetics of downtown Carthage with the addition of street lamps to Main Street in the downtown area, decorative trash containers and a paver project has taken place at the courthouse.

Tennessee Department of Economic and County Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty made the announcement Thursday morning.

Tennessee Downtowns is a tiered program affiliated with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s Tennessee Main Street Program.

Carthage was selected in the fourth round of participants to be announced.

“We are very pleased to have been one of only six communities in Tennessee to have received a Tennessee Downtowns grant.

This says a lot about the direction in which our town is headed, and the confidence the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has in Carthage and Smith County.”

“Since first becoming mayor of Carthage, I’ve had a vision for downtown renewal and projects that accentuate the beauty, culture and history of our town,” commented Mayor Sabra Hodge. “The Tennessee Downtowns project will be the cornerstone of this vision, and it will be a project that all of Smith County will be proud of. As a county commissioner, I’ve worked closely with the Smith County Living Committee and others who are dedicated to restoring our downtown. By working together we will assure the success of this project. The

future of Carthage has never been brighter.

I’m looking forward to more good things to come and sharing them all with you.”

“Congratulations to the six newest communities joining our Tennessee Downtowns program,” Hagerty said. “This program offers valuable tools to support downtown revitalization and historic preservation. Strong downtowns create overall economic strength in our state, both encouraging investment from within and attracting fresh commitments to Tennessee.”

“These six communities new to the Tennessee Downtowns program are looking to the future of their historic downtowns, and we look forward to working with them on their revitalization efforts,” Tennessee Main Street Director Nancy Williams said.

In addition to Carthage, Arlington, Ducktown, Etowah, Jamestown and Shelbyville received the grant.

The six selected communities are each home to downtown commercial districts established at least 50 years ago and have demonstrated their readiness to organize efforts for downtown revitalization based on the successful “Main Street Four-Point Approach to Downtown Revitalization.”

The highly competitive selection process was based on five core criteria: historic resources, need (economic and physical), demonstrated local effort, overall presentation and probability of success.

Main Street revitalization is a comprehensive, incremental, self-help economic strategy that also focuses on developing public-private partnerships to enhance community livability and job creation, while maintaining the historic character of the district.

Tennessee Main Street provides technical assistance and guidance for communities in developing common sense solutions to make downtowns safe, appealing, vibrant places where folks want to shop, live and make memories.

Relay For Life Saturday night From page – A1 continue through mid-night.

Throughout the year, teams have been holding various fund-raisers. Proceeds from those fund-raising efforts are combined with funds raised d u r i n g S a t u r d a y n i g h t ’s event.

Relay For Life raises tens of thousands of dollars each year to benefit the American Cancer Society.

At the Carson Maxwell Pavilion, a continuous walking relay around an oval track will take place throughout the event.

Cancer survivors walk the first lap of the relay, followed by a caregiver lap.

As the relay is taking place, there are live performances on a stage next to the relay track.

Also, teams participating in Relay For Life sponsor booths with various activities

and concessions.

Booths encircle the relay track.

Meanwhile, inside the agriculture center, a cakewalk, luminaria decorating and a silent auction will take place.

Inflatable houses and slides for kids will be part of the activities.

Events After nightfall, luminaries are lit and encircle the track.

A schedule of entertainment and events include: 5 p.m.—Reception for cancer survivors will be held inside the agriculture center.

6 p.m.—Opening ceremony and scripture reading and prayer by Brother Doug Dillard. Local scouts will be on hand for the flag presentation. Representative Terri Lynn Weaver will sing the National Anthem. Michaela Coogan will be guest speaker.

6:30 p.m.—The survivor lap song: It’s a Beautiful

Day will be sung by Jamie Grace. Caregiver lap song I’m So Happy will be played.

Survivor balloon release will take place 6:45 p.m.—Kids parade 7 p.m.—Elvis 7:30 p.m.—Singers from the North Carthage Baptist Church will perform.

8 p.m.—Deidre Bentley will perform.

8:30 p.m.—Performance by dance group.

9 p.m.—Lighting of the luminaries. Deidre will perform Amazing Grace.

9:30 p.m.—Mr. Relay-emceeded by Jennifer Akers Scalf.

10:30 p.m.—Zumba-on stage for anyone who wishes to participate with instructor Jennifer Akers Scalf.

11 p.m.—Free dance time with Tyrone.

11:30 p.m.—Closing ceremonies and team award.

Photo Submitted

Tennessee Highway Patrol Sgt. Shannon Brinkley with a bag of marijuana K-9 Justice helped locate during a search.

Justice served From page – A1 anon animal control shelter to evaluate the three dogs.

In order to qualify for the K-9 program, a candidate (canine) must possess a very high prey drive or ball drive—a continuous urge to retrieve or chase.

Upon examining the two black labs, Trooper Brinkley and Frost determined they had no interest in the tennis ball used to check their level of prey/ball drive; however, the two found the yellow lab was chasing the ball through the parking lot and over debris every chance he could get.

The yellow lab, which Trooper Brinkley named Justice, was picked up by Lebanon Police Department during an animal neglect call.

“Whoever had been Justice’s previous owner had neglected and abused him,” said Brinkley. “If Justice had not been adopted on that day

by THP K-9 department, he was to be put to sleep. He had the mange really bad and was malnourished, weighing only 37 pounds which is very low for a two year old yellow lab.”

Once evaluated by Frost, Justice exceeded requirements to be a K-9 candidate and was accepted by the department to undergo training to be a drug detector K-9.

On the same day Justice was accepted for training, the canine was evaluated by veterinary Dr. Perry Harmon and determined to be in poor health but could be rehabilitated due to his age of only two years old.

Also that day, Justice was assigned to Trooper Brinkley, who would be responsible for housing and working the canine until the training class as a drug detector K-9 began weeks later.

When the class started, Justice’s health had im-

proved dramatically. While working Justice back to health, Trooper Brinkley developed a bond with the canine.

Justice, along with his handler, Trooper Brinkley, graduated the THP’s 10 week K-9 program on November 30, 2001, beginning what was to become a long and productive career for Justice with the highway patrol.

During their career, Justice and Trooper Brinkley patrolled Smith County and surrounding counties which make up the highway patrol’s Cookeville District.

In addition to patrolling roadways, Justice and Trooper Brinkley held presentations at the local schools and participated in programs throughout middle Tennessee.

In addition to their duties with the highway patrol, Justice and Trooper Brinkley were on call to assist local law enforcement with drug round ups and searches of vehicles, etc.

In 2008, Trooper Brinkley and K-9 Justice were assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Nashville office where they both worked in the investigations unit.

In December 2010, Trooper Brinkley left the DEA for a promotion as sergeant with THP’s Research, Planning and Development Unit where he remains assigned.

Upon Sgt. Brinkley’s promotion, Justice was retired and offered to Sgt. Brinkley and his family.

Without hesitation, Sgt. Brinkley accepted the offer.

After caring for and working with the canine, Sgt. Brinkley had spent more time with Justice his family.

“There was no way I was going to abandon Justice,” Sgt. Brinkley said. “He had been such a part of my family’s life for so many years.”

At the age of 15, Justice,

Justice while still with the Brinkley family, developed kidney failure and passed away on May 9 with Sgt. Brinkley at his side.

Justice was cremated and his remains are with Sgt. Brinkley and his family.

“We miss him every day,” Brinkley notes.

During his tenure as a THP drug detector, the K-9 partnered with Sgt. Brinkley to make numerous discoveries of illegal drugs and proceeds.

The following are some of the more notable accomplishments: •Justice was involved in numerous seizures of illegal drug proceeds totaling more than $1.2 million.

His largest currency seizure was $535,000 from a Commercial Motor Vehicle stop on Interstate 40 in Smith County.

•Justice was responsible for the seizure of over 80 pounds of cocaine during a stop also made on Interstate 40 in Smith County.

•During his career, Justice located hundreds of pounds of marijuana and numerous amounts of methamphetamine and heroin.

•These statistics do not account for the hundreds of smaller felony and misdemeanor drug cases in which illegal drugs were located and seized.

•Justice was also responsible for numerous drug arrests along with weapons and vehicle seizures.

(A native of Smith County, Trooper Brinkley still resides locally.)

Fair featuring political rally From page – A1 July 29.

All candidates must pre-register by 6:30 p.m.

Names will be drawn at random by the moderator.

Candidates must be on hand to speak in person.

Also, all candidates will receive an alloted time to speak.

There will be no charge for the candidate (other than gate admission).

Any candidate for any office which appears on the ballot is allowed to speak at the event.

This year’s fair will held July 26 through August 2.

Those who may have questions about the event can contact Chairperson Bill Woodard at 615-566-9150 or 615-735-2093.

Meanwhile, inside this week’s Courier is The Fair on the River—Smith County Fair Guide, a guide to all of the activities which will be taking place at the county fair.

The 88 page tabloid contains fair event times and dates, as well as register times for those planning to enter contests and participate in events.

The fair guide also includes a layout of the fairgrounds and admission costs.

Readers are encouraged to set aside the tab in an easy to remember location for use as a guide during the week of the event.

Indictments in high dollar crimes From page – A1 2013 through December 23, 2013 from the Dollar Store located on Highway 25 in Carthage. Gammons has posted $15,000 bond and is to appear in criminal court on August 15. The case was investigated by Lt. Detective Tommy Proffitt.

In an unrelated case, Kenneth Ray Allmond, 66, Carthage, was indicted on a charge of theft of property between $10,000 and $60,000.

The indictment alleges Allmond “obtained or exercised control over a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup truck valued at more than $10,000 but

less than $60,000 (on May 8, 2012), the property of Larry Hatmaker”. The case was investigated by the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Criminal Investigation Division. Allmond has posted $10,000 bond and is to appear in criminal court on August 15.

Also, Jeff Parker, 53, Carthage, was indicted on charges of theft of property between $1,000 and $10,000, two counts of failure to maintain records of auto part sales and selling vehicle parts without a license. The indictment alleges Parker “obtained or exercised control over certain property, a 2001 Chevrolet 1500 of the value of more than $1,000 but

less than $10,000, property of Joesph Boyd”. Parker has posted $10,000 bond and is to appear in criminal court on August 15. The case was investigated by the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Criminal Investigation Division.

In another unrelated indictment, Maria Rae Hines, 29, Gordonsville, was charged with introduction of drugs into a penal institute. Hines allegedly attempted to take Suboyone, a schedule III drug, into the county jail.

The case was investigated by Randy Glover with the sheriff’s department correctional department.

Additional indictments remained sealed, Monday.

Fourth of July parade, fireworks From page – A1 features floats and costumed historical characters such as Uncle Sam, Benjamin Franklin,

etc. Following the parade, entertainment takes place in downtown Lancaster. Concessions are available. This will mark the tenth year the parade has been held.

Electricity for several communities From page – A1 power line from Carthage to Lebanon. Current for the line was to be provided from the falls of the Caney Fork River at Rock Island.

A right of way of one hundred feet in width was cleared from Carthage to Lebanon for the new line which included three aluminum lines carrying 44,000 volts of electricity.

Also in April of 1926, the Tennessee Power Company began an extension from Carthage to Gainesboro. The extension included 11,000 volts of electricity on three Number 4 copper wires and furnished electricity to Elmwood, Chestnut Mound, Granville and Gainesboro to Celina, Livingston and Algood.

Construction of a line to New Middleton and Grant was expected to begin in the summer of 1926.

Plans were being devised for the extension of electric lines from Gordonsville to Lancaster and Buffalo Valley.

Also, Monoville was to be connected to Carthage in April of 1926.

Negotiations were taking place for extension of electric lines to Defeated and Difficult.

In February of 1926, Will Burbage, a resident of Carthage, was named manager

of the Carthage Division of the Tennessee Power Company. Burbage succeeded G.B. Shawyer who was promoted to executive of construction of all the company’s plants in the state.

In addition to Carthage and Gordonsville, communities which already had electric power were Hickman, Brush Creek, Riddleton, Dixon Springs, Hartsville, Pleasant Shade and the Macon County communities of Russell Hill, Willette, Red Boiling Springs and Lafayette.

The company was preparing to construct a line from Willette to Gainesboro in Jackson County which meant power to Elmwood and Chestnut Mound.

Singing convention In October of 1926, the county’s third singing convention was held in Carthage.

Professor Carl Dickerson of Pleasant Shade was president of the Smith County Singing Association which sponsored the annual singing convention which was held at the courthouse.

“Singing classes” came from all parts of the county to be a part of the event which began at 9 a.m. and continued through the day.

One of the features of the convention was the Smith County Radio String Band which included Rob King, T.K. Ford, Ernest Grisham and others.

Bridge opens next Wednesday From page – A1 transportation department awarded the reconstruction contract to Mid-State Construction Company of Livingston, low bidder for the project at $9.5 million.

Initially, the bridge reconstruction project was

scheduled to be completed in November of 2013.

The contractor was given an extension on the project several months ago.

The color of the bridge, silver, was selected by the Carthage City Council.

The council had the option

of silver or blue.

Silver was the original color of the bridge.

After being closed several times for inspection from the summer of 2007 until December (2007), the bridge has been barricaded since December 13 of 2007.

A Special Section Honoring an Historical Smith County Landmark ---------------The Cordell Hull Memorial Bridge

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58 Cookeville Hwy • Carthage, TN • 615-735-9200 | Monday - Saturday 6:30 A.M.- 9 PM • Sunday 7 AM - 8 PM

2 CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE CARTHAGE COURIER JULY 3, 2014

Cordell Hull Bridge opens Wait finally over for restoration of historic structure

By Eddie West Staff Writer

After being closed for more than six years, transportation officials have determined the Cordell Hull Bridge will open to traffic following a ceremony set for Wednesday (July 2).

A ceremony including a ribbon cutting is set for 2 p.m. Immediately following the ceremony, the bridge will be open for pedestrians, according to a release from the Smith County Chamber of Commerce.

The bridge will open to traffic at 6 p.m.

Representatives from the Tennessee Department of Transportation, state and local legislators and officials are expected to take part in the ceremony planned for the Carthage side of the bridge.

The reconstruction contract ended June 30 when all work was completed.

Final stages have included completing painting, paving approaches to the bridge, installing lighting and final steel work.

The color of the bridge, silver, was selected by the Carthage City Council who also had an option of the color blue.

Silver was the original color of the bridge.

Installation of electrical/lighting, lattice work and a general cleaning took place as final stages of the reconstruction project, according to Jensen, noting final work is “weather dependent”.

In August of 2011, the transportation department awarded the reconstruction contract to

JENNIFER BUSH / COURIER

Mid-State Construction Company of Livingston, low bidder for the project at $9.5 million.

Initially, the bridge reconstruction project was scheduled to be completed in November of 2013.

The contractor was given an extension on the project several months ago.

After being closed several times for inspection from the summer of 2007 until December 2007, the bridge has been barricaded since December 13 of 2007.

Before being barricaded, the bridge was inspected by state engineers for several hours on December 10 and December 11 (2007).

When barricaded, transportation officials initially said the bridge would be closed for a seven day inspection.

Transportation officials later said the bridge was undergoing a 30 day review, during which time a decision would be made as to whether the bridge

would reopen or be closed indefinitely.

Transportation officials determined the bridge was in need of extensive repair work and remained closed.

According to the transportation department, the inspection revealed significant deterioration to the bridge’s steel truss, spans and connections.

The project has included removing and replacing the bridge’s concrete deck, replacement of bridge rails, repairs to various steel sections of the bridge, bearing replacement and repairs to bridge piers.

Prior to the December 2007 closing of the bridge, in July of 2007, the structure was temporarily closed for a few days during an inspection by state transportation engineers.

The bridge was temporarily closed for a few days again in November of the same year.

The bridge opened in 1936.

New look for a . . .

very, very old friend . . .

EDDIE WEST / COURIER

JULY 3, 2014

CARTHAGE COURIER CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE 3

Remembering . . .

WHEN BRIDGE FIRST OPENED The Cordell Hull Bridge first opened on Thursday, May 14, 1936. Here’s how the opening was recalled in a Courier article.

“Thursday, May 14 was a great day for Carthage and for Smith County.

That was the day on which the new two hundred thousand dollar bridge across the Cumberland River at Carthage was thrown open to traffic.

The bridge has been under construction nearly two years and though it has been open to traffic, R.B. Culbertson, the engineer in charge of the work, says the finishing touches will not be completed until about the first of August. The finishing work includes the polishing of the piers and other concrete portions and the painting.

Mr. Culbertson has furnished the Carthage Courier with some very interesting figures as to the amount of material used in the bridge as follows: cement—31,283 bags; reinforcing steel 521,108 pounds; structural steel 1,492,478 pounds; gravel—8,665,391 pounds; sand—5,849,921 pounds.

The actual cost of the structure was $199,083.39.

The contractors were Vincennes Bridge Company of Vincennes, Indiana.

The sub-contractors were: R.E. Martin, Nashville grading; G.M. Nichols, Knoxville, handrails; Backham Painting Corporation, Chicago, painting.

The general superintendent of construction was J.H. Moon, later succeeded by Luther Shoemake. Most of the labor was employed locally or in Smith County.

The engineering force was composed of Mr. Culbertson, who, by the way, is one of the best in the state, assisted by N.H. Hickerson, instrument man; Ben Drake, Sidney Harper and Newman Porter, rod men.

The bridge has been appropriately named in honor of Secretary of State Cordell Hull. The naming of the bridge was done by a special act of the Legislature.

This Act was sponsored

by Representative I.D. Beasley.

Truly, this new bridge does come as a great blessing to Smith County. It was a great day back in 1908 when the fi rst bridge was built at Carthage, eliminating the ferry across the Cumberland River. Though the first bridge was built as a toll bridge and remained a toll bridge until 1927 when it was purchased

by Smith County and the state highway department and opened to the public, it was a great improvement over the ferry system.

In the days of 1908, there were no automobiles or heavy trucks in use on the highways and the bridge at that time was built for horse and buggy and wagon traffic and served well. After the innovation of the automobiles and trucks, the general increase of transportation across the Cumberland River at

Carthage became a serious matter to those most concerned because no one knew just how long the old bridge would stand the heavy strain.

But through the good graces of Governor Hill McAlister and his state highway department and the federal authorities, this critical situation at Carthage has been taken care of by the construction of a modern, new free bridge that will serve all purposes for years to come.

The people, not only of Carthage, but in all parts of Smith County are indeed grateful for this new bridge. This gratitude on the part of the people will be demonstrated with a big celebration in the near future. Such celebration will be held at such time as Secretary of State Cordell Hull, Governor McAlister and others instrumental in its construction can be present.

From the above, it is to be seen that Carthage and Smith County have had three great days on which to rejoice in connection with the transportation problem across the Cumberland River at Carthage. First, in 1908 when the toll bridge supplanted the ferryboat; second, in 1927 when the toll bridge was made a free bridge; third, in 1936 when the old and inadequate bridge was replaced with the present modern new bridge.

The approach of the new bridge on the Carthage side is at the old Benton McMillin home on South Main Street and the other approach is on the highest point

Various postcards from the Cordell Hull Bridge.

of U.S. Highway 24 (State Route 70), under the bluff and pad passes directly over where the Tennessee Central Railroad Company depot formerly stood. The depot has been removed to the forks of Highway No. 24 and the Gordonsville Road in South Carthage, near Waggoner’s

Store.

This bridge not only serves a vast number of people on the south side of the county who wish to come to their county seat and the numbers on this side of the county who want to go to the other side, but it connects two of the state’s main highways, No. 24

and No. 25.

The old bridge is being taken down and stored for use by the county.

After-all, Smith County is making much progress and the people should be, and are, happy over their handsome new free bridge.”

HISTORICAL GEM . . .

Overlooked until state closure

By Eddie West Staff Writer

It’s one of the county’s most historically significant structures, perhaps ranking second only to the county courthouse, but the Cordell Hull Bridge was overlooked for years.

Maybe because the bridge played such a vital role in the county’s modern infrastructure (highway system), its historical importance was overshadowed.

Efforts to have the bridge placed on the National Register of Historic Places did not begin until after the bridge had been closed due to structural deficiencies and its future clouded with uncertainty.

In December of 2007, the bridge was closed to traffic by the state’s transportation department.

It was not until November of 2009 the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

On November 20 of 2009, the bridge was added to the register.

The county has 12 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the bridge was next to last to be added.

When there was a possibility the historic structure would be torn down, residents of the community began pondering its demise.

Smith County without the Cordell Hull Bridge?

The thought caused many who look to future rather than the past to cringe.

Carthage resident and local historian Sue Maggart Petty was assigned the duty of filing appropriate paperwork to submit to the organization.

Dixonia, located on Highway 25 in Dixon Springs, was added in July of 1973; Dixon Springs District (downtown) was added in February of 1975; James Bradley House, located in the Dixon Springs community, was added in September of 1978; Smith County Courthouse was added in April of 1979; Cullum Mansion, located in Car-

Bridge work EDDIE WEST/COURIER

(Right) Bridge down to the steel frame on the South Carthage side. (Below) Workers reconstructing bridge.

Other entries include:

thage, was added in January of 1983; Davis-Hull (Cordell Hull) House was added in January of 1983; Carthage United Methodist Church was added in July of 1985; Rome Ferry in Rome was added in December of 1986; Fite-Williams-Ligon House, located in Carthage, was added in July of 2003; Battery Knob Earthworks, a Civil War site where trenches were dug for soldiers guarding Carthage during the war (located on the hill behind Riverview Regional Medical Center) was added in November of 2003; Fortified town at the mouth of Dixon Creek-Beasley Mounds was added in July of 2010;

4 CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE CARTHAGE COURIER JULY 3, 2014

Bridge restoration photos by Eddie West, Jennifer Bush

JULY 3, 2014

CARTHAGE COURIER CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE 5

Pathway to the Past

Cordell Hull Bridge Restoration

TIMELINE 2007

The Cordell Hull Bridge pictured from the South Carthage side leading to downtown Carthage.

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Cordell Hull Bridge Overview

STRUCTURALLY, the Cordell Hull Bridge is what is known as a steel truss bridge. A truss bridge is one whose load-bearing superstructure is composed of a truss, a triangular arrangement of members that distributes compressive and tensile forces in a pattern determined by the specific design of the truss. Truss bridges are one of the oldest types of what are classified as modern bridges. A truss bridge is economical to construct because it uses materials efficiently. Specifically, the bridge is a three span continuous through truss. A truss is framework of beams which creates support. The nature of a truss allows the analysis of the structure using a few assumptions and the application of Newton’s laws of motion according to the branch of physics known as statics. For purpose of analysis, trusses are assumed to be pin jointed where the straight components meet.

This assumption means members of the truss (chords, verticals and diagonals) will act only in tension or compression.

The Cordell Hull Bridge is what is known as a “through truss” bridge, meaning the truss members are both above and below the roadbed. A bridge with the roadbed atop the truss is a “deck truss’ bridge. A bridge where the sides extend above the roadbed but are not connected is a pony truss or half-through truss bridge.

JULY—Bridge temporarily closed for a day.

Transportation officials say it was closed for a routine inspection.

AUGUST—Bridge temporarily closed two days after bridge of similar construction collapsed in Minnesota. Transportation department officials says it is conducting a routine inspection of the bridge.

SEPTEMBER—Bridge is temporarily closed again for routine inspection by the state’s transportation department.

NOVEMBER—Bridge temporarily closed for inspection by the transportation department for inspection.

DECEMBER—Bridge is closed for inspection on December 13. Transportation officials say bridge could reopen after inspection. The bridge remains closed at the end of the December.

2008

JANUARY—As inspections continue, transportation officials say the bridge could still reopen.

By the end of the month, transportation officials say the bridge has 10 significant deficiencies and it can not be reopened without structural problems being corrected. Future of the bridge is very much in doubt.

JUNE—State transportation officials announce a New York based firm would be hired to inspect the bridge and pin-point deficiencies and how they can be corrected.

OCTOBER—New York company examined the bridge to produce estimate of repair costs and list deficiencies.

NOVEMBER—Announcement was made of a meeting which would be held on December 4 to reveal findings of the New York company.

DECEMBER—Problems and estimated costs of repairs are revealed. The estimated cost to repair the bridge is $12 million. Because of repair costs, the bridge remains in jeopardy. However the state has spent excessive funds in studying and inspecting the bridge which means the project could move forward.

2009

Cordell Hull

alternately inverted equilateral triangle shaped spaces along with its length, ensuring that no individual strut, beam or tie is subject to bending or torsional straining forces, but only to tension and compression. Length of largest span is 315.9 feet. Total length of bridge is 1,412.1 foot. Bridge deck width is 23.9 feet. Vertical clearance of above deck is 15.4 feet.

SOME FACTS about the bridge constructed from 1934-1936:

THE BRIDGE was constructed and —A total of 31,283 bags of cement opened for traffic in May of 1936. Conwere used. struction took almost two years. An ap—A total of 521,108 pounds of reinproximate one million dollar renovation forcing steel were used. to the bridge took place in 1992.

—A total of 1,492,478 pounds of DIMENSIONS (when first constructural steel were used. structed) and bridge style—The main —A total of 8,665,391 pounds of span is a three span continuous truss whose central span is a 318-foot Park- gravel were used.

—A total of 5,849,921 pounds of er-K trough truss flanked on each end with a 144.5 foot Warren deck truss. A sand were used.

Parker truss is a Pratt truss design (in—The bridge were constructed at a cludes vertical members and diagonals cost of $199,083.39. A total of $200,000 that slope down towards the center) with was allotted for construction. a polygonal upper chord. A ‘Camelback” —One person was killed while conis a subset of the Parker type, where the struction was taking place. The man was upper chord consists of exactly five segstruck by a piece of lumber which fell. ments. In reference to the “Warren deck truss”, the Warren truss was patented APPROXIMATELY 7,600 vehicles in 1848 by its designers, James Warren crossed the bridge on a daily average and Willoughby Theobald Monzani, and when it was closed in December of 2007. consists of longitudinal members joined Compiled by Eddie West only by angled cross members, forming

JANUARY—Courier runs front page editorial on January 29 as to why Cordell Hull Bridge should be reconstructed. Copies of the newspaper are dispersed on Capitol Hill in Nashville.

APRIL—Residents are urged to write state legislators in support of Cordell Hull Bridge.

Cordell Hull Bridge rehabilitation project makes 2010-2012 transportation department list, however funding remains in question. Bridge undergoes more inspections by the transportation department.

JULY—State budget approved, but funding for the Cordell Hull Bridge not secured.

2010

MAY—Cordell Hull Bridge included on transportation department’s list of projects. Funding remains in question.

OCTOBER—Funding for reconstruction of bridge becomes issue in fall of 2010 election as reconstruction has not started and funds have yet to be secured. The state’s department of transportation’s policy is to pay for projects as they are developed instead of borrowing funds.

2011

MARCH—Announcement comes from state’s transportation department reconstruction of the Cordell Hull Bridge could start as early as summer.

MAY—Funding for Cordell Hull Bridge in state transportation budget.

AUGUST—Contractors bid on bridge project first of month. Mid-State Construction Company of Livingston low bidder at $9.5 million.

Reconstruction on bridge began in the fall of 2011 with the projected completion date as fall of 2013. The contractor moved equipment to bridge site, but little work was done at first.

2012

JANUARY—Reconstruction work continues.

NOVEMBER—Transportation department grants contractor an extension for reconstruction project until June 30 of 2014.

2014

JANUARY—Reconstruction continues. Most concrete work completed. Painting continues.

JULY—Bridge reopens on July 2.

6 CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE CARTHAGE COURIER JULY 3, 2014

How Cordell Hull Bridge came to exist

By Eddie West Staff Writer In order to learn about the Cordell Hull Bridge as it is today, one must look at how the structure came to be.

Before a bridge was constructed across the Cumberland River in Carthage, a ferryboat operated along the waterway.

At the time, horse and buggy or wagons were the main mode of transportation.

Opening in 1908, a privately owned toll bridge was the first structure to span the Cumberland River at Carthage.

In 1927, the toll bridge was purchased by the state government and made a free crossing.

By the 1930s, the aging structure, which was referred to as the Carthage Bridge, had become outdated and falling into a state of disrepair.

Automobiles were replacing horse and buggies and wagons.

A local movement began to have the bridge replaced.

By the mid-1930s, Carthage resident Cordell Hull was a prominent figure in Washington D.C., holding the position of Secretary of State.

Through the secretary of state’s efforts, in 1934, funds were approved for a new bridge in Carthage through the National Industrial Recovery Act. THOSE BEHIND THE MOVEMENT Carthage Attorney H.B. McGinness and others from Carthage met with Governor Hill McAlster to ask for appropriating funds for a new bridge. The governor agreed a new bridge was needed.

The next step was securing funding from Washington D.C. The federal road department “did not look upon the proposition with much favor, insisting road funds should be used for road purposes and not for building a bridge”, according to an article which appeared in the Courier. Secretary Hull, familiar with the community’s needs, “interceded and it was then the federal authorities permitted funds to be appropriated for the erection of a new bridge”.

CORE DRILLING FOR BRIDGE In June of 1934, the state highway department announced the contract for drilling the core for the Cordell Hull Bridge had been awarded to the Kentucky based company Diamond Drilling Company.

In August of 1934, the Diamond Core Drilling Company, which had been contracted for making the “sounding” (drilling holes) for the Cordell Hull Bridge, had completed its work.

The drilling took approximately four weeks.

Approximately ninety holes were drilled on each side of the river and some in the river’s channel.

The holes were drilled through the soil surface to a rock bed.

The type of rock was studied for stability purposes.

ACT OF CONGRESS In order for the core drilling to begin, permits had to be obtained by the state’s department of highways and public works from the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads and the War Department.

An act of Congress is required for construction of a bridge over a navigable stream. The passage of such an act for the bridge at Carthage was secured months prior to construction or the project being bid.

Plans for the bridge had to be approved by the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads.

Drilling for structures such as bridges had to be done in the bed of the river where the piers are built, not only on solid rock but thirty feet deep in the rock.

Also, the U.S. War Department held a public hearing for the proposed bridge.

A representative from the department came to Carthage and held a “sort it out” hearing where all interests, particularly in regards to the Cumberland River navigation interests, were given an opportunity to present any objections to the construction of a bridge.

If any objections are made or if they are made and either adjusted or over-ruled, the project will have reached the point of advertising for bids for the construction of the bridge.

PROJECT BID, CONTRACT AWARDED The next phase of the bridge project was for engineers to design the bridge which would be advertised for bid. This came after core drilling had been completed and a federal hearing.

In October of 1934, the state’s department of highways and public works advertised the bridge project to be bid.

The contract set certain wages for workers. The minimum wage paid to all skilled labor employed as part of the project was 75 cents per hour.

The minimum wage paid to all intermediate grade labor employed as part of the project was 45 cents and for all unskilled labor was 30 cents per hour.

The Cordell Hull Bridge was awarded to the Vincennes Bridge Company of Vincennes, Indiana, in the late fall.

Frank L. Oliphant, John P. Oliphant and Jacob L. Riddle incorporated the Vincennes Bridge Company in 1898 for the purpose of fabricating structural steel for bridges.

Until the 1920s, the firm’s work consisted primarily of small I-beam spans and pony truss bridges.

Although the company undertook jobs in 27 states, it primarily constructed bridges in Illinois and Indiana.

The firm changed its name in 1932 to the Vincennes Steel Corporation.

BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION During the first week in December of 1934, machinery required for construction of the bridge was unloaded from freight cars. The machinery included derricks, steam shovels, concrete mixers, etc.

The first few weeks were spent readying equipment for construction.

Here’s a description of work which appeared in a February 1935 Courier article.

“In recent weeks, the bridge builders constructed a large conveying cable across the river, the ends of the cable being attached to tall and massive steel towers on each side of the stream.

This steel cable, which is capable of carrying a load

of several tons, is used to convey materials to be used in the bridge construction wherever desired. The contraptions, someone has said, greatly resembles the old water telegraph system, which was operated by a wire being strung from the residence upon the hill down to the spring in the hollow, and the water bucket caused to travel to and from the spring on the wire by use of a small cord and windlass. The piling is being driven and much other preparation is being made for the construction of the bridge foundation.”

In the May 30, 1935 edition of the Courier an article read: “The new bridge that is being erected across the Cumberland River at Carthage is now beginning to take form.

Last Tuesday, the first steel was placed in the structure.

This work began on the west end, and on that side of the river the peers are completed from the highway to the river’s edge, and no doubt steel will be placed this distance within the next few days. At present the contractors are completing the piers from the east bank to Main Street in Carthage, there being several of these. Also, at times, workmen are preparing the coffer dam for the construction of the pier that is to be placed out in the river several feet from the west bank. It is already to be seen this new bridge is going to be tall and handsome and one of the greatest improvements that has come to Smith County in a very, very long time.”

BRIDGE IS NAMED In August of 1935, (as construction was taking place) approval was given for the bridge to be named the Cordell Hull Bridge. An act was introduced to the General Assembly in Nashville by state Representative I.D. Beasley (Smith County native) and passed by state legislators approving the naming. In addition to being Secretary of State, Hull was a former captain in the Spanish American War, a former congressman from the Fourth Congressional District. The state legislature directed a plate or marker to be placed on the structure with its new name. Hull was noted as one

of the nation’s leading statesmen at this time.

WORK ON BRIDGE PROGRESSING In December of 1935, workers were installing a long span across the Cumberland River. The span was 318 feet and was “high enough for steamboats to pass under at the highest water mark. To be exact, the clearance is 91 feet at the low water mark and 40 feet on a high tide”.

The location of the bridge is 308 miles from the mouth of the Cumberland River which empties into the Ohio River.

The following Courier article describes what workers faced: “Work on the Carthage bridge is just as hazardous as on the large ones. Workmen have to climb about and over the steel work like squirrels hopping from limb to limb in the tree tops.

One of the workmen explains to be a bridge builder you have to be sure-footed, have a non-swimming head, a strong back and a mind weak enough not to see danger.

Also, you have to know how to shoot and catch red hot bolts just like boys playing marbles. All this work is carried on with the rattling music of the jackhammer or riveting machine.”

Work on the Cordell Hull Bridge was completed and opened to traffic in May of 1936.

TEARING DOWN THE OLD BRIDGE When the Cordell Hull Bridge opened to traffic in 1936, the old bridge (one time toll bridge) was torn down. The bridge was dismantled and parts were salvaged for use on rural bridges.

In June of 1936, the last and main span of the old bridge was “pulled down”.

“Tons of steel were pulled off the piers and the mass fell into the water. Now the contractors are engaged in taking the structure apart and the pieces are being stored for use by the county,” a Courier article described.

Several hundred people stood on the Cordell Hull Bridge and watched the span fall.

The old bridge stood for almost 30 years.

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

(Left) Workers restore steel on bridge. (Top) Workers jackhammer old concrete.

JULY 3, 2014

CARTHAGE COURIER CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE 7

Restoring county’s historical icon photos by Eddie West

8 CORDELL HULL MEMORIAL BRIDGE CARTHAGE COURIER JULY 3, 2014

CORDELL HULL BRIDGE Editorial Carthage Courier

An Enduring Symbol Restoration of historic structure embodies the vision of Smith County’s very own & renowned world leader An industrialized society as we live in today places a premium on modernization which often translates into demolition reigning supreme over preservation.

Such a philosophy often results in the hasty casting aside of that which may be of historical significance or serve a meaningful economic purpose.

Historically significant structures and vistas are often discarded or eliminated from existence to make way for modern thoroughfares, buildings, various developments or a simple asphalt parking lot.

Pieces of our communities, cities, counties and nation are forever lost from viewing and can no longer be experienced.

Generations who follow can only research what is lost in our past from pages of books.

Missing is the often emotional impressions, ranging from awe inspiring to melancholy, which can be experienced through witnessing.

Bridges are built, leading to the downtown areas of cities throughout the country, because of their economical importance.

The location of the Cordell Hull Bridge in relation to economics of our community is self-explanatory and by all means argue this point

simply as a means of crossing a freeflowing body of water.

Numerous buildings, facilities and 47th United States agencies in the mid-state area bear the Secretary of State name of the honorable Cordell Hull.

The longest serving However, there is no greater symbol in U.S. Secretary of State — the state which immortalizes Tennessee’s holding the position for 11 years greatest statesman than the Cordell Hull (1933-1944) in the administration of Bridge.

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt Here is where eyes should be opened. during much of World War II This state has produced three presidents Received Nobel Peace Prize in 1945 for his role in and at least one vice president, in addition establishing the United Nations and was referred to by to other noted regional and national President Roosevelt as the leaders.

“Father of the United Nations”.

Cordell Hull’s legacy (body of work), arguably, rises above that of these alone as reason enough for the bridge to have individuals because his contributions to the world been restored. continues today in epic proportions.

However, when analyzing why the Cordell Hull By any standards, the millions of dollars Bridge should have been reconstructed, there needed to reconstruct the Cordell Hull Bridge is a is one argument for the structure to be restored substantial sum of money. which rises well above economics—history.

However, years after his death, we feel this sum Sometimes eyes are blinded by modernization pales in comparison to the contributions Cordell and have to be opened to that which cannot be Hull made to our town of Carthage, our county seen. of Smith, our state of Tennessee and our nation The Cordell Hull Bridge is not another structure known as the United States of America and to the which simply links two river banks. world.

Through the years, millions of individuals The goal of the United Nations is to bring have crossed the north countries together to fight poverty, work for peace and south banks of and harmony and enhance relationships between the Cumberland countries.

River by way Cordell Hull played such an immense role of the Cordell in creating the United Nations, Carthage was Hull Bridge, considered to be the location for the world agency. viewing Through his work in helping to found the United the aging Nations, Cordell Hull envisioned an agency which structure would bridge countries of the world.

When eyes are opened, a bridge serves a greater purpose than a simple passage connecting two divided bodies of land. A bridge fills a void to connect that which is separated.

The United Nations looks to unite countries of the world by building bridges between its governments.

What better symbol to represent Cordell Hull’s legacy than a bridge which he envisioned.

Smith County is home to the Cordell Hull Dam and the Cordell Hull Lake, both of which were constructed years after the Tennessee statesman’s death and named in his honor.

The Cordell Hull Bridge was a project which the former secretary of state worked to secure funds to construct — for our county and our state.

Like the United Nations, it is an actual piece of his body of work, conceived while he was serving under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, leaving no doubt the Cordell Hull Bridge should have been restored to the majestic state it is today.

Cordell Hull

Since his death, Cordell Hull has never stopped contributing to society by his efforts to establish the United Nations and other works including the Cordell Hull Bridge, a vital economic component to this area.

Some may argue the cost to reconstruct a bridge built in the 1930s is an act of “throwing good money after bad” which is not always the case.

For instance, some states maintain pre-Civil War era bridges which remain functional and serve a vital role in their communities.

Now that the reconstruction has been completed, the Cordell Hull Bridge will remain a legacy for its namesake and continue to have a positive economic impact on our community.

BUILT MAY 14, 1936

—

RESTORED

JULY 2, 2014

THIS ISSUE:

18 Yard Sales 16 Help Wanted 226 Real Estate Listings 5 Auctions

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Presenting News And Views From around Smith County Volume 102 Number 28-USPS No. 092-180July 10, 2014

Carthage, Tennessee 37030

24 pages

Single Copy 75¢

Man faces child abuse charges Several sealed indictments returned by grand jury

Election Sample Ballot B6 - B7

By Eddie West Staff Writer A Carthage man has been indicted on child abuse charges.

Kenta Grooms, 26, faces seven counts of aggravated child abuse.

A sealed indictment was returned charging Grooms during a special session of the grand jury in June.

INSIDE ...

The indictment alleges Grooms “did knowingly, other than by accidental means, treat the victim, a child of eight years of age or less in such a manner as to inflict injury and the act of abuse resulted in serious bodily injury to the child”.

The alleged incidents took place from January 15 through April 30.

Bond for Grooms was set at

$75,000.

Grooms is to make an initial court appearance on August 15.

The case was investigated by sheriff’s department Detective Chris Jenkins.

Other sealed indictments include: Paul Timothy Wright, 46, Cookeville, was indicted for

theft of property between $1,000$10,000. Investigators allege Wright took a 2001 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck owned by Joseph Boyd. Bond was set at $5,000.

The case was investigated by the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s CID Trooper Randy Crain.

See Sealed Indictments A9

Residents, young & old, stroll across revamped bridge

Where’s Scoop?

Entry Form, Contest Rules & Last Week’s Winner . . . . . . . . A7

Sports 12U All-Stars

Blast Their Way To Tourney Sweep, 3-0. . . .

B1

Purple Pride Caravan Makes Stop At Carthage Walmart . . . . . . . B1

News Solid Waste

EDDIE WEST/COURIER

Reveals No Signifi cant

Two youth look over the edge of the Cordell Hull Bridge as pedestrians walk along the bridge, Wednesday afternoon. Additional photos inside.

Shortfalls; Disposal

Rehabilitated bridge opens with fanfare

Fee Talks Continue . . . . . . . . A10

78 Years Later . . .

Glenn B. Grisham Walks Cordell Hull Bridge, Again . . . A6

Briefly

COMMISSION MEETING COUNTY The county commission will meet Monday night (July 14) for its July session. Items on the agenda include: items 1-4 routine; public hearing concerning the footage between a residential dwelling and an establishment that sells beer and alcoholic

See County Page A9 Auctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B8, B12 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . B5-B12 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2, A3 Bob Cowan Gary Grisham Jane Lohman Daisy Ramsey Janie Weyebacher Laura Woodard

Public Notices . . . . . . . . . . . B6, B7 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1

By Eddie West Staff Writer Motorists had to wait a little longer than pedestrians to cross the newly revamped Cordell Hull Bridge which had been closed for more than six years.

Hours before last Wednesday’s 2 p.m. ribbon cutting ceremony, pedestrians were trekking across the historic structure.

After a brief ceremony, which included Transportation Commissioner John Schroer, the bridge

remained open for pedestrian traffic only until 6 p.m.

A large crowd fi lled the Carthage end of the bridge for a ribbon cutting ceremony.

“This must be special. This is the largest crowd I have ever seen at a bridge opening,” remarked Schroer.

As soon as the ceremony concluded, a fl urry of curious residents, who had bypassed the bridge in their vehicles for more

See Cordell A9

Inmate faces host of charges

By Eddie West Staff Writer An inmate faces vandalism and assault charges following some unruly incidents which occurred behind bars at the county jail.

Jonathan L. Woods, 32, Knoxville, has been indicted on vandalism and assault charges.

Woods was indicted for vandalism between $1,000 and $10,000 for allegedly smearing feces on the walls and floors of an isolation cell and claiming to have hepatitis C. Woods was also indicted for vandalism up to $500 for “slinging all the sandwiches for inmate meals onto the floor”. Bond for Woods on the two charges was set at $10,000.

In an unrelated incident, Woods was indicted on two counts of as-

We are Riverview

Cordell Hull Bridge Facts

(Provided by the Tennessee Department of Transportation) ■ Bridge is one of 50 steel truss bridges in use in Tennessee.

■ Bridge design features a continuous deck truss with riveted construction.

■ Deteriorated steel and concrete resulted in the closing of the bridge.

■ Mid-State Construction was able to save the truss and most of the rivets.

■ As much as 70 percent of the original structure remains, including the substructure and lattice work.

■ The reconstruction project involved 150 workers and 12 subcontractors.

■ A total of 400,000 pounds of rebar were used during reconstruction and 200,000 pounds of new structural steel was installed.

■ A total of 4,000 gallons of paint was used in the project.

sault for allegedly striking another inmate on May 28. Bond on the charge was set at $10,000.

The sealed indictments were returned during a special session of the grand jury held in June.

The cases were presented to the grand jury by sheriffs department corrections Col. Randy Glover with the sheriff’s department correctional department.

Police records show Woods has been incarcerated here since January when he was taken into custody in Gordonsville on charges filed by Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Jeremy Willhite.

Those charges included driving on a revoked license, violation of open container law, manufacture/ delivery/sell of a controlled substance and theft of property.

PRIVATE COMFORT HEAL

Gospel music show added to fair events Fair organizers continue to add events to this year’s annual Smith County Fair.

A bluegrass/country gospel music show will be held on Friday (July 25) night at the agriculture center pavilion, according to County Mayor Michael Nesbitt, a fair volunteer/organizer.

The event will include the Isaacs, a multi-award winning family group who began singing 35 years ago.

Based in Hendersonville, the Isaacs often perform at the Grand Ole Opry and are active members on the Gaither Homecoming Videos and concert series.

The special concert also includes Wilburn and Wilburn, a duo featuring Smith County native Jonathan Wilburn and son, Jordan.

As their special guest, Wilburn and Wilburn will feature Jonathan’s mother and South Carthage resident Elaine Wilburn.

Jonathan Wilburn formed Wilburn and Wilburn after leaving the

See Gospel A9

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JULY 10, 2014

CARTHAGE COURIER A – 9

Cordell Hull Bridge opens after being closed over six years From page – A1 than six years, rushed onto the bridge, some stopping to eye the structure while others viewed the breath-taking scenery.

A man attending the event grabbed one of the numerous American fl ags which lined the entrance to the bridge for the ribbon cutting ceremony and led the procession across the bridge, swaying the fl ag back and forth in the air.

“I will always remember this event,” said 72-yearold Carthage resident Vivan Allen, who was celebrating her birthday. “I have crossed this bridge in my car all these

years, but have never walked across it.”

Because of a medical condition, the Upper Ferry Road resident only half-way traversed the bridge.

“I just wanted to see the forks of the river,” Allen said, who made it safely to the center of the bridge to view the sight of the Caney Fork River merging with the Cumberland.

The transportation department had originally planned for the event to be held in the middle of the bridge, but apparently only notifi ed the media.

Local organizers planned

to stage the event at the Carthage end of the bridge in order to allow room for the crowd.

Tents, sound system and seating were in place by 1 p.m. when two transportation department trucks pulling trailers to stage the event arrived.

A compromise was reached and the ceremony took place where the concrete attached to the pavement.

Throughout the afternoon, parents holding hands with curious youngsters made their way across the bridge.

After a series of inspections, the bridge was closed

in December of 2007.

A routine inspection revealed significant deterioration in the bridge’s steel truss, spans and connections, according to transportation officials.

Repair work on the bridge offi cially began in August of 2011 when Mid-State Construction was awarded a contract to rehabilitate the truss style bridge.

The official reconstruction cost, according to the transportation department, was $9.5 million.

The project included the removal and replacement of the concrete bridge deck in

all truss spans, replacement of the bridge rails for the full length of the bridge and various structural steel repairs and bearing replacements.

Concrete repairs were also made to the bridge piers, ac-

cording to the transportation department, which noted that through blast cleaning and repainting, much of the original structure remains, including the overhead truss, lattice work and countless rivets.

NOW OPEN

County commission to meet Monday night From page – A1 beverages of less than five percent; presentation plaque to the Gordonsville Tigerettes softball team for their accomplishment of winning the 2014 Class 1A state championship; approval of May 12 Smith County Commission meeting minutes; presentation of Budget and Finance Committee meeting minutes (May 13, May 15, May 27, May 29, June 3, June 5, June 12 meetings); presentation of Smith County Agriculture Committee meeting minutes; presentation of Smith County Joint Economic and Community Development meeting minutes; presentation of Solid Waste Committee meeting minutes (June 10, July 1 meetings);

presentation of Smith County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting minutes; presentation of Beer and Alcoholic Beverage Law Study Committee meeting minutes (June 2, June 17, July 14 meetings); presentation of joint meeting of the Smith County Living Committee and Downtowns Committee meeting minutes; notifi cation of over budget on the general fund 101-54610-county coroner/ medical examiner; notifi cation of correction on resolution 05-2014-15 Smith County High Department; presentation of Smith County Veterans Service office report; Resolution No. 07-2014-01-request for support of Amendment 1 on the November 4, 2014 General Election ballot and encouraging support of the

same; Resolution No. 07-2014-02-appointment of Smith County genealogist; Resolution No. 07-2014-03-appointment of Smith County historian; Resolution No. 07-2014-04-appointment of Board of Zoning Appeals members; approval of Smith County Trustee’s year to date cash receipts, disbursement and balances for year ending June 30, 2014; approval of Smith County Circuit Court annual financial report for year ending June 30, 2014; approval of Smith County General Sessions Court annual financial report for year ending June 30, 2014; approval of the Smith County Tennessee audit for year ending June 30, 2013; comp time and overtime report for county employees July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014; election of notaries; adjourn.

DYER

Gospel music show part of this year’s fair From page – A1 popular gospel music group Gold City.

Jonathan and Elaine Wilburn performed with the wellknown southern gospel group The Wilburns for a number of years.

“I have been very fortunate to have grown up listening to

a lot of good gospel music.

The Wilburns have been one of many,” said County Mayor Nesbitt. “Jonathan Wilburn with Wilburn and Wilburn brought Gold City to the Smith County Agriculture Center several years ago with a packed house. Gold City has come back to Smith County twice since then. Great times

Sealed indictments

and great gospel music. Jonathan thought it would be a great addition to the Smith County Fair with some good old gospel music so he was able to put together a deal with the Isaacs for the 2014 Smith County Fair. I am looking forward to some good times and good gospel singing. Way to go Wilburns and thanks for keeping Smith County in your hearts and minds.”

Admission to the event is $10.

Premier Medical Park 315 N. Washington Ave. • Cookeville 931-528-3300

Those attending the event are encouraged to bring their lawn chair.

Fair events will continue beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday, July 26 with a fishing contest.

Other events for Saturday include a homemade wine contest, ham, bacon and jowl show, draft horse and mule show and a 4-wheeler rodeo for adults.

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Carnival rides arrive on Monday, July 28.

From page – A1 Robert J. Hickman, Elmwood, 37—one count theft of property between $10,000-$60,000. The indictment alleges Hickman took a 2006 Chevrolet pickup truck valued at more than $10,000 but less than $60,000 from Auto Village in Lebanon on May 22, 2012. Bond for Hickman was set at $12,000.

The case was investigated by Tennessee Highway Patrol CID Trooper Randy Crain.

Gary Wayne Thomas, 40, Pleasant Shade—aggravated assault (two counts), reckless endangerment (two counts), assault, resisting arrest. Bond was set at $20,000. The case was presented by sheriff’s department Lt. Dt. Shannon Hunt.

Kenneth L. Hires, 36, Carthage—simple possession of schedule II drug Oxycodone, simple possession of schedule IV drug Alprazolam, simple possession of schedule IV drug Clonazepam. Bond was set at $1,000. The case was presented

by Carthage Police Department’s Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt.

Rupell Allen Gulley, 24, (address unavailable)—aggravated burglary, theft of property between $500-$1,000. Bond was set at $5,000. Carthage Police Department’s Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt investigated the case.

Bobby Lee Heady, 20, Carthage—theft of property between $1,000-$10,000. Heady allegedly took a Ford F-150 pick-up truck from John Hayden. Bond was set at $25,000. The case was investigated by sheriff’s department Detective Chris Jenkins.

Richard Lee Stafford, 34, Pleasant Shade—theft of property between $1,000-$10,000. Bond for Stafford was set at $1,500.

The case was presented by Carthage Police Department’s Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt.

Sary Marie Gulley, (age unavailable), Pleasant Shade—theft of property between $1,000-$10,000. Bond was set at $1,500.

The case was investigated by Carthage Police Department’s Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt.

Amber Jackson, 18, Carthage—theft of property between $1,000-$10,000. Bond was set at $1,500. The case was presented by Carthage Police Department’s Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt.

Nicholas Mayberry, 23, Carthage—theft of property between $1,000 and $10,000. Bond was set at $1,500. Case was investigated by the Carthage Police Department’s Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt.

Nicky Joe Silcox, 41, Carthage—contraband into penal facility. Bond was set at $2,000. The case was investigated by sheriff’s department correctional Col. Randy Glover.

Tyler Shawn Fowler, 19, Carthage—vandalism between $500-$1,000. Bond for Fowler was set at $1,500. Case was presented by sheriff’s department Dt. Chris Jenkins.

Grazyna Warchalowski, 61, Carthage—forgery up to $1,000, passing a forged instrument, theft under $500. Bond was set at $1,000. Lt. Dt. Tommy Profitt investigated the case.

Taylor Williams, 21, Carthage—statutory rape. Bond was set at $1,500. Case presented by sheriff’s department deputy Kevin Dick.

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