2nd Annual Festival of Trees To Raise Funds for Lighthouse Christian Camp Christmas Outreach Program

October 22, 2019
By: Dwayne Page

The 2nd Annual Festival of Trees is set for December 2nd from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at the DeKalb Complex and this year the event will support the Lighthouse Christian Camp’s Outreach Christmas Program which serves more than 500 children.

Hundreds poured into the county complex last year to view the unveiling of the 39 uniquely decorated Christmas trees and to show support for DeKalb County Foster Children during the inaugural “Festival of Trees”.

Patrons came bearing gifts which they placed under their favorite tree along Holly Hall, Candy Cane Lane, Cookies Café, and Stocking Theatre and the tree with the most gifts under it was designated “Tree of the Year”.

Trees were also in the running for “Best Christmas Spirit”, “Most Unique”, “Best Overall Theme”, “Prettiest Tree”, “Most Touching Theme”, and “the tree I want in my living room” as voted on by visitors to the complex.

“Last year was such a huge success with so many getting involved and over 1,000 toys having been donated. It was truly a community event of giving,” said Josh Issac.

“This year will be bigger and better. We are shooting for 50 trees and even more vendors for your Christmas shopping needs. We also will have free Christmas Cookies and drinks as well as Pictures with Santa. It’s a free event but we ask that you bring gifts for kids to teens and place them under the tree you want to win “2019 TREE OF THE YEAR”. There will also be other categories you will be able to vote on during the Opening Night celebration. “ This event is FREE and you can come join us all night or stop by for 10 minutes,” said Issac.

If you would like to put up a tree or be a vendor please call 615-318-2298.

October 22, 2019
By: Dwayne Page

Members of the Smithville Police Department are letting their beards grow next month for a good cause.

No-Shave November is a nationwide fundraiser for cancer awareness. This year’s observance by the Smithville Police Department will be in memory of the late Margaret Judkins, mother of Smithville Police Officer Will Judkins and all proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.

Mrs. Judkins passed away in September.

All officers who choose to participate will make a cash donation. If anyone else would like to support the cause, contact the Police Department at 615-597-8210.

“At some point in time almost everyone will personally know someone afflicted with cancer. It is a privilege to work alongside fellow officers who care enough to try to make a difference,” said Police Chief Mark Collins.

As the participants let their beards grow, family and friends are encouraged to join the campaign and become more educated about cancer prevention, saving lives, and helping those fighting cancer.

“You will soon see some Smithville police officers that could use a shave, but it’s for a good cause,” said Captain Steven Leffew. “Many of our officers are very enthusiastic to take part in the fundraiser. I’m very proud to work beside such caring people,” he said.

October 21, 2019
By: Dwayne Page

An EMT Critical Care Paramedic employed by the DeKalb County Ambulance Service (EMS) has earned a prestigious honor.

Jamie Vernon is the Upper Cumberland EMS Directors Association’s Region IV “Paramedic of the Year”. The award was presented to Vernon during the association’s annual fall symposium October 11 in Cookeville.

She was nominated by DeKalb EMS Director Hoyte Hale.

Nominees for the honor must be a current Tennessee licensed emergency medical technician or paramedic employed by or who volunteers for a Region IV ground or air service and they must exhibit professional qualities expected in this venue. Their contributions should go above and beyond whether it be in their clinical skill set or in actions that have affected the community or someone in a positive way.

In nominating her, EMS Director Hale praised Vernon for her skill and professionalism.

“Despite being a relatively young paramedic with only 5 years of service, I am proud to say that she is dedicated to delivering outstanding service in DeKalb County. She provides excellent care, exemplifying qualities that not only make her a wonderful employee but also a valuable clinician and pre-hospital provider”.

“Ms Vernon goes above and beyond the call of duty expected of her and leads by example. She is constantly striving to better her education and service to the community. For example, she voluntarily trained to become a death investigator and earlier this year completed critical care school. She is now a licensed clinician and critical care paramedic. Jamie is always punctual and readily available to work extra hours if needed. She is an outstanding role model and mentor for new employees and always makes them feel welcome. She has a wonderful attitude, ethic, and optimism which makes her a great leader ,” said Hale.

The Upper Cumberland EMS Directors Association consists of the directors from the primary 911 ground ambulance services and base managers of the air medical companies in the 14 county Upper Cumberland region.

Tennessee EMS Region IV comprises Cannon, Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith, Van Buren, Warren, and White County. Air Evac, LifeForce, and Lifeflight represent the 3 air medical services in the region.

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