General George Armstrong Custer peered intently through the early morning mist. He couldn’t see any Indians. The Crow scouts insisted they were there, camped on the bank of the Little Bighorn River some fifteen miles away. more

There are few tales as compelling as that of René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, a French explorer whose intrepid spirit led him to forge a path into the uncharted wilderness of North America. Amidst the late 17th century’s backdrop of colonial expansion and fierce territorial rivalries, La Salle’s vision and determination laid the foundation for one of the earliest European settlements in the Mississippi Valley—the enigmatic Fort Prudhomme. This week’s story delves into the remarkable story of La Salle and the founding of Fort Prudhomme, a momentous chapter in the early history of Memphis and west Tennessee. more

In this part of the state, few achievements are as awe-inspiring as the construction of Kentucky Lake. Nestled amidst the picturesque Tennessee Valley, this colossal man-made reservoir stands as a testament to human ingenuity, foresight and determination. Not only was it an ambitious project but it is essential to remember the challenges overcome and the impact it has had on the lives of countless citizens, the region’s economy, and the prosperity of the states of Kentucky and Tennessee. more

Life is certainly interesting, at both ends. more

One of last week’s calls asked if we printed the newspaper this week. The answer was ‘yes.’ The caller did not receive his newspaper through the mail. more

….are on the lists (yes, there are more than one) of outdated, obsolete and/or old-fashioned things that baby boomers “needlessly” hang on to long past (according to a wave of fresh new thinkers) their effectiveness. more

I am so excited for the new school year and can’t wait to see all the smiling faces on August 1. While it’s been a whirlwind summer as I’ve gotten into the new role as Director of Schools, the community of McKenzie has been tremendous in welcoming me and my family back to West Tennessee. more

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) stands as a testament to the transformative power of public infrastructure. Established in 1933 during the Great Depression, the TVA was born out of a need to revitalize the impoverished southeastern region of the United States. Over the decades, the TVA has played a pivotal role in fueling economic growth, providing reliable electricity, controlling floods, fostering industrial development, and promoting environmental stewardship. This editorial aims to delve into the rich history and enduring significance of the TVA, with a specific focus on its profound impact on West Tennessee. more

We were practicing democracy before we could spell it. Miss Katie would give us the opportunity right after lunch to vote on whether we wanted to go outside and play, or would we rather stay in and eat some ice cream. We never thought about doing both. Time was of the essence in our kindergarten class….and let me tell you, Miss Katie ran a tight ship! more

It is a sad situation for the area. Henry County Medical Center plans to close its obstetrics department. That means, no more babies will be delivered at the local hospital, the one with the most advanced OB care in the region. Add that to no labor and delivery services in Carroll County nor Stewart County. That leaves soon-to-be mothers with the necessity to travel farther and risk their lives in case of a time-sensitive emergency. more

In the early 20th century, amidst the backdrop of racial tensions and social upheaval in the American South, a man by the name of Thomas Sigismund Stribling emerged as a prominent figure. Born on March 4, 1881, in Clifton, Tennessee, Stribling would go on to become a renowned author, capturing the essence of Southern life through his insightful and thought-provoking works. This is the story of Ts Stribling and his enduring impact on American literature. more

The article of the school board meeting on June 15 caught my attention about nothing but money increases all across the system. Not a word was printed about what the new director wanted to do for teaching the children, just new money for so many things. more

June 20, 2023 — The mass shooting at the Covenant School in Nashville has led to an extraordinary legal battle over the public records law and transparency of our criminal justice system. more

In the annals of country music history, one name stands out with a unique blend of talent, humor, and tragedy: David “Stringbean” Akeman. Born on June 17, 1915, in Annville, Kentucky, Akeman’s musical journey would take him to great heights, including performances on the Grand Ole Opry and the iconic television show Hee Haw. However, it is his untimely death and the subsequent events that would forever etch his name in the hearts of fans and musicians alike. more

Folks, next week will mark my 49th wedding anniversary. You see my dilemma right off. I have given my first wife a very special gift every year for the past 48 summers. I have about run out of ideas. more

In the heartland of America, where the sound of lonesome whistle and the rumble of a train echoes through the picturesque landscapes, a legend was born. His name was Casey Jones, and he would become a symbol of bravery and selflessness for generations to come. This is the story of a man who dedicated his life to the rails and made the ultimate sacrifice to protect those entrusted to his care. more

My seventeen year old grandson just took a job at Wendy’s. I was proud for him, and of him. A young man going into his senior year in high school ought to be holding down a steady job. Learning to “earn his way” so to speak. I called to congratulate….and encourage him. more

With the Vols headed to Omaha to compete in the College World Series, my wheels got turning about professional baseball players from Tennessee. Proudly, there is a great number from our state but surprisingly there is only one player in the Hall of Fame. That one player is Norman “Turkey’’ Stearnes who played in the Negro Leagues. So with the help of Google and every sports index online, Turkey Stearnes is this week’s Weekly 150 spotlight. more

John Wesley Crockett was born on August 10, 1807, in East Tennessee, to David and Mary Crockett. He came from a notable lineage, being the eldest son of the legendary frontiersman and former congressman. John Wesley Crockett would leave his mark on the world. more

What is below the pits? This can’t get much worse. I feel like I’m living on Elm Street. I’m so far down I can’t even see the underside of the bottom of the barrel! And there is not an end in sight. Not one ray of sunlight…. more