OKINAWA, JAPAN; Korea; the Philippines; Thailand; Australia; Singapore; Hong Kong; Saudi Arabia; the United Arab Emirates; Qatar; Kuwait; Iraq; Kosovo; Cuba; Greece; Italy; Spain; France; Germany;...

I PLUNKED MY keys and cellphone into the plastic tray. Two windowless metal doors separated us from the outside world. A third interior door was unbolted, and Lt. Chris Cook, the director of the...

THE HOMETOWN Heroes & Harmony event, sponsored by the United Veterans Council of Bedford County, began as an invitation-only event before welcoming our community to a free concert on the...

WHEN PEYTON Allison was a little girl, she lined up her Bratz dolls and imagined she was their teacher. Other times, she talked her little brother, Alex, into pretending he was one of her students....

"WORK HARD, play hard, pray hard” is the motto of the White family, who own White Associates LLC, which opened at 100 L. Fisher Rd. in 2000. What began as two separate businesses opened the door for...

ON MAY 9, the aroma of fish fillets and hushpuppies sizzled and crackled inside deep fryers. Children played tag on the freshly manicured lawn. Others smiled joyfully as they gathered new friends at...

EMILY WOODRUFF turned the brass knob and pushed the door open. “This two-bedroom townhome is move-in ready. I think you’ll love this retirement community,” she said. Her client wearily scanned the...

AT THE corner of East Depot Street and Thompson Street, a few blocks from the historic Bedford County Courthouse, treasures await at Shelbyville’s oldest antique store. Every counter, curio cabinet,...

THE FIFTH annual Spring Fling, hosted by the Bedford County Fair Board at 2119 Midland Rd., included a free countywide Easter egg hunt, a guest appearance by the Easter Bunny himself, 60 vendors...

A STUDENT IN our community today will walk the halls of Congress with a pinned American flag on their chest. A student in our community today will pray their knees still hold when their nerves get...

COURTNEY BOGLE applied to Thomas Magnet School (TMS) three years ago, hoping to teach English to seventh and eighth graders. When the principal, Mrs. Tracy Watson, asked if she’d be willing to start...

THE CONNECTED Community 5K on May 10, 2025, left many participants with more than just shin splints. Not long after everyone crossed the finish line of the "Run, Walk, and Roll," Beth Davis and...

GLITZ, GLAMOUR, balloons, sparkly sequins, and a whole lot of pictureperfect smiles transformed the theater at Shelbyville Central High School on Saturday, Feb. 7, for the 2026 Mister and Miss...

WHEN WE think about the basic requirements of a thriving community, our minds naturally go to the grocery stores that feed us, the banks that hold our futures, and the schools that educate our...

IN 1860, three women in Hartford, Connecticut, started an after-school club to provide young boys with a safe place to stay out of trouble. By setting high expectations, the boys learned positive...

“LOVING AND taking care of God’s people is in our DNA,” Patricia Simmons said. When she and her husband, Robert, retired to Shelbyville from Los Angeles, California, a decade ago, they felt the Holy...

THE FLY Arts Center is abuzz with activity. Community potlucks, professionally catered dinner theatre shows, fundraisers for nonprofits, a quarterly “Maker Market,” plus exhibitions by local artists...

LOVE IS one of those things we recognize instantly, even when we struggle to explain it. We feel it before we understand it. We see it in the quiet moments that never make headlines, and in our...

BIG HAIR bands, leg warmers, neon spandex, mullets, perms, and ultra-teased bangs, bright geometric shapes, and colorful wind suits — each of these reminds us of the 1980s. But this era, with its...

On Nov. 21, 2026, Billy Joe and Kerri Calvert will celebrate their 28th wedding anniversary. These high school sweethearts have a love that has stood the test of time. Their commitment to each...

MONITORS BEEP. Patients are wheeled into sick bays. Codes are called. Through the bedlam of a busy emergency room (ER), Brian and Erica Cox found themselves growing from co-workers to friends, and...

A WAITING ROOM chair creaks as someone shifts their weight. A cup of water sweats onto the lobby’s tile floor. Somewhere down the hall, a name is called. Life pauses in places like this. It always...

AN EXTENDED hospital stay; an injury on the job, at home, or in an accident; post-surgery; or the need to increase mobility following a stroke, age-related decline, or to improve flexibility,...

NO MATTER where you live in Bedford County, mention the name Virginia Freeman and faces light up. “The mold was thrown away after God made her,” and “God has blessed her, and everyone who knew her...

THE SHELBYVILLEBEDFORD County Chamber of Commerce hosted A Bedford County Christmas on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. This second annual event included lighting the Christmas tree on the lawn of the historic...

THE CALL comes in, and the world doesn’t slow down. The clock feels like it ticks faster, but our heroes stay strong. The firefighter is halfway through dinner. The nurse just pulled into the...

Dear Good News Magazine,My 13-year-old granddaughter KaemeyYoung is my hero — and a hero to manyothers — as she continues her battle againstacute lymphoblastic leukemia. She’s not afirefighter, a...

GROWING UP, most of us played outside long after the streetlights in our neighborhood buzzed to life high above our bicycles. Electricity has hummed through our lives like a silent servant — so...

THE ROAR of five mighty engines, the thrill of the crowd cheering from the stands, and the wholesome family atmosphere made the Monster Truck Wars at the Cooper Steel Arena on Oct. 25 unforgettable....

IN MARCH of last year, my cousin’s work schedule became incompatible with raising his first pet, a brown and white Bernedoodle puppy. I took her in, not knowing just how much she would change, well,...

MORGAN HEAD bent her elbow and slowly raised the mascara wand toward her dark eyelashes. Her grasp faltered, and the wand dropped from her shaking hand, leaving a black trail down the front of her...

FROM THE livestock in your barn to the pets snuggled on your living room couch to your furry — or not-so-furry — friend snoozing in your pocket, Cascade Veterinary Hospital LLC (CVH) welcomes every...

ON OCT. 18 and 19, Bell Buckle welcomed thousands of visitors to the annual Webb School Art & Craft Show. The salty-sweet aroma of kettle corn, funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar, and...

THE CREAK of an old wooden floor, the worn edges of a brick building, the way a nameplate on a storefront shines a little softer with age. These are not just small details from the past. They are...

WE HAVE understood the term “kick the bucket” for centuries. But it wasn’t until 2007 that screenwriter Justin Zackham coined the phrase “bucket list,” following the release of his film, which...

THE SHELBYVILLE-BEDFORD County Public Library at 220 S. Jefferson St. is topsy-turvy. Staff completed a much-needed reset, replacing the adult book section with the children’s and youth books...

THE CELEBRATION City Car Club began in March 1982 with a group of car enthusiasts, led by Garland King, who wanted to share their passion for classic cars, bring the community together, and...

WE’VE ALL heard, “The sky’s the limit,” but for Clara Grace Sanders, the sky isn’t the limit — it’s home! From a young age, she attended several Girls in Aviation events with her Girl Scout troop,...

THE BEDFORD County Fair, July 14-19, 2025, brought a blend of lighthearted, down-home entertainment and beloved traditions, reminding us why this yearly event buzzes with anticipation. This year,...

“FRANKENSTEIN,” PUBLISHED in 1818, is considered the first science fiction novel. The Gothic story cracked open an entire genre of literature that has endless new entries today. It inspired...

WHEN MELONIE Valleroy entered second grade, her mom started a job as a pharmacy technician at Middle Tennessee Pharmacy Services (MTPS), so Valleroy often spent time there after school and during...

THE SCENT of warm butter-covered popcorn and the huge roar of the crowd… does anything bring you back faster than a Friday night under the stadium lights? For me, it’s a flood of memories: the...

For nearly 86 years, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been deeply woven into the fabric of the Shelbyville, Tennessee community. To Bedford County and surrounding areas, this...

EVERY EYE was on the center ring. The floodlights overhead, which had previously illuminated the arena for dozens of Tennessee walking horses (TWH) and their riders, switched off. A subtle hush fell...

HURRICANE HELENE dumped an astonishing 30 inches of rain on portions of Tennessee and Western North Carolina, triggering deadly landslides. Scenes unfolding across social media showed utter...

SADDLE UP your Tennessee walking horses, slip on your favorite pair of boots, and bring your excitement and appetite to the largest event facility in Tennessee for the 87th annual Tennessee Walking...

IF YOU’VE ever seen a fighter jet cut across the sky, you know what powerful looks like. You know what freedom sounds like. That roar overhead reminds us that we live in a country where people put...

THE SHELBYVILLE Garden Club has been cultivating beauty — not just in flowerbeds, but in friendships and civic pride — since April 27, 1955. Whether they’re planting flowers at The Fly Arts Center,...

FIVE DAYS after her 17th birthday, on June 14, 1942, Muriel Moyers nervously squeezed Leonard Coble’s hand. “How old do I have to be to get married?” Leonard asked the justice of the peace in...

A FAMILY LOADS up their navy blue Jeep in Tennessee and takes a cross-country road trip. It’ll take several days to get to the Sequoia National Park in California. There may be hours when the Jeep...

FOR KAY Templeton, the insurance industry has been her life’s work, a career spanning over 40 years that began when she graduated from Shelbyville Central High School (SCHS) in 1966. After attending...

THE RHYTHMIC clatter of pins and the squeak of shoes echoes across the wooden floors of the Shelbyville Bowling Alley. The buzz of conversation — and sometimes lively songs coupled with overly...

YOU ARE loved. You are valued. Imagine hearing these words from a stranger, or receiving a gift bag and discovering these words have been lovingly penned inside a card. Whispers of Hope Founder...

WHEN YOU choose a locally owned business over a national chain, you’re not just spending your money, you’re planting it. And the roots of that investment reach deep. Every dollar counts, and it...

STEP INSIDE the newly remodeled JW Boutique at 203 N. Cannon Blvd., Suite C, and discover a wide array of trendy yet budget-friendly clothes, jewelry, and accessories. Though Jennifer “Jen” Whitson...

BACK WHEN she was a student, Jennifer Jordan Thompson examined every detail of the photo in her marketing book. The overhead spotlights illuminated a stage where rows of picture-perfect models were...

A STUDENT IN our community today will walk the halls of Congress with a pinned American flag on their chest. A student in our community today will pray their knees still hold when their nerves get...

"I SAW MYSELF as a teacher, in a bank, as a doctor — never prisoner number 00660725 at the Bedford County Correctional Complex,” wrote Shawna Barrier. “My pathway to becoming a habitual offender...

DURING HIS formative years in Maryland, Kasey Kesselring’s mother and three siblings gathered around the dinner table each evening, taking turns reading from the devotional “Our Daily Bread.”...

NINETY-YEAR-OLD MARY Sadler’s eyes twinkle as she studies the eager faces around the kindergarten classroom at Cascade Elementary School. Every morning, she lovingly delivers the bags of hot...

SOMEONE IS unresponsive and has quit breathing. A loved one is struggling to breathe or appears to be experiencing a heart attack. A child is choking on a grape. Any one of us could find ourselves...

THE SKY blushed with shades of peach and coral above the metal bleachers of Shelbyville Central High School (SCHS). Wild honeysuckles sweetened the slight summer breeze. One by one, the stadium...

AFTER DAYS of nonstop chemo infusions, Ezralee Swing was much too weak to open his eyes. Above the metal headboard of his hospital bed, a machine beeped. Had he finally completed his seventh day of...

THE SOUNDS of the self-checkout registers beep through the entire store. The short lines of people with baskets and carts move across the reflective tile like a conveyor belt and out the door. Uh,...

You know that first breath of spring? The way the warmer air gives you goosebumps — the air is soft, full of promise, carrying hints of something new. After months of cold, we step outside, and for...

Courtney Clardy awoke before her alarm clock. All five of her children were still sleeping, but there was another child who needed her. She quietly settled into the dining room chair and reviewed...

Jeremy Smith, the lead pastor of The Experience Community Church’s (ECC) Shelbyville campus, has dedicated his life to serving both his faith and his community. Married to his wife, Kelly, for...

JFigurines from your favorite games and movies, such as “Dungeons & Dragons,” “Star Wars,” and “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” alongside colorful backpacks adorned with iconic characters, such as...

A nurse walked down the hallway his mother walked decades before he did. Beep … beep … he could hear the sounds from patients’ rooms. He kept a small keepsake pinned to his scrubs, a pin his mother...

Mackenzie Respress “kneaded” a way to nurture herself during a turbulent time in her life, so she turned to the art of baking sourdough. As her confidence in the kitchen rose, along with her...

Amy Neese Jones grabs her buzzing phone from her purse and presses the answer button. Before the “hello” brushes her lips, a dear friend on the other end unravels a series of heartfelt pleas.  “My...

Buddy Carter settles into the seat facing the sewing machine. Turning the handwheel, he ensures the needle pierces the folded edge of the purple and blue calico fabric. He pushes the toe of his...

The people of the year 1000 faced division, uncertainty, and fear for the future. They didn’t know it then, but they stood at the edge of change, transitioning from the Dark Ages to the Middle Ages....

Touchdown Wings, a small and unassuming restaurant specializing in all things wings, is a haven for those who crave bold and satisfying flavors. It’s Friday night after a hectic work week — the last...

Darren and Deena Delin scanned the young man’s application, and their eyes widened. Although they, along with Les Price, oversee the one-year mentorship program for boys at Riverbend Ranch and...

After fastening the gold buttons of his dress blues in October 2020, Col. Mike Corrado plunged his fingers into the snow-white gloves that he and other United States Marines reserved for formal...

Henry Ford, who started the Ford Motor Company in 1903, was a firm believer that history should be absorbed — not through textbooks but by seeing and experiencing it firsthand. Ford believed that we...

Autumn settles into our town like a puppy in a warm bed. There’s a magic in the air that only this season can bring. Golden leaves drift gently from the trees, painting the sidewalks in shades of...

On the corner of Shelbyville’s iconic square, Glass Hollow Table & Tavern emerges as a beacon of fine dining, transforming the former Knox Pitts Hardware into an elegant and refreshing culinary...

Christmas day was rapidly approaching, and my husband and I were seniors in high school. Warm candlelight bathed the stucco walls as the waiter jotted down our orders. When he emerged sometime later...

WHEN THE late Kenneth “Kenny” Cooper opened his first shop with two employees, his dream was simply to make a better life for his wife, Faye, and two sons, Gary and Barry. He had no idea the impact...

WHEN SOMEONE mentions Emmy’s Restaurant, my taste buds become excited. I immediately begin fantasizing about the hand-cut sweet potato fries served with a dipping bowl of melted butter and brown...

THE CHURCH parking lot is full. Fire trucks, ambulances, police and sheriff ’s department cars, and other emergency response vehicles encircle the property and overflow into areas surrounding...

SHE FLASHES her lights and pushes the gas pedal a little harder. The walkie-talkie is too quiet, so she spins the dial and makes her bulletproof vest a little more comfortable. She worked hard to...

On the corner of Shelbyville’s square, Arty All the Time is a refreshing fusion of creative expression and cafe confections. The bright blue facade is impossible to miss, beckoning both locals and...

AS A native of Shelbyville who began his career in public service over 50 years ago, police Chief Jan Phillips is deeply rooted within the core of our community. He started his career as an EMT at...

“I DIDN’T CHOOSE this career. Honestly, it chose me,” said Detective Lt. John Sweeney with the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office. “I never thought in a million years I would ever become an officer,...

ALMOST 25 years before Regis Philbin began asking players of the popular 1990s game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” if they wanted to “phone a friend,” Donald Floyd and Wickey Parker have done...

OUR FOOD nourishes us, from the soil beneath our feet to the table where we gather with family and friends. The hot sun beams from the sky into the field of sprouting seeds. Farmers rise early,...

PREPARE TO throw everything you thought you knew about candy out the window. The Shelbyville Snack Shop provides a new and delicious way to experience your favorite candies.  Stepping into...

ASHLEY POTTS blew a warm breath across the cover of a book, arousing dust particles into the air. Overwhelmed by a mixture of anticipation and sadness, she studied the other items that belonged to...

SOFT LINEN tablecloths, colorful stemware glasses, an eclectic mix of chairs and benches, and jars bursting with zinnias were the perfect backdrop for the first Farm-to-Table Dinner sponsored by the...

VANESSA YENTZ is fulfilling a legacy. It isn’t just for herself or for her husband, Eric, but for their children, grandchildren, and everyone who comes in contact with the Yentz Family Farm. ...

BESIDE THE historic Capri Theatre, Shovel Pizza has found its home. Upon entering, the first thing that strikes you is the sleek, contemporary design. Black, white, and wood accents create a warm...

WHEN THE stadium lights blaze and the roar of the crowd echoes, true fans know the game-day experience begins in the parking lot. Celebrate your team’s spirit with these tailgating recipes, which...

THE CROWD fills the stands, row after row, of people in our high school’s colors. The family in front of you sits down with a fresh hot dog from the concession stand. It’s still steaming with a...

ANTICIPATION FILLS the air like the smell of donuts, onion rings, and smoked brisket. As the gate opens, a hush falls over the crowd. A snow-white Tennessee walking horse carrying a rider adorned in...

JOHN ALLAN Callaway is the only trainer in the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) history to win the World Grand Championship four years in a row. In fact, the name “Callaway” has...

TEN-YEAR-OLD J. French Brantley IV scooted to the edge of the seat and gazed toward the organist in the center of the arena. The melodies flowing from Larry Bright’s fingers carried J. to an...

TEN DAYS out of the year, taste, tradition, and Tennessee walking horses combine to create the touchstone of the crowning of the national grand champion. Lines as long — and longer at times — as...

STEPPING INTO Rico’s, a riot of colors from the numerous piñatas and festive decorations adorning the interior greets you. The lively and inviting atmosphere sets the perfect stage for a sweet treat...

It’s a reality for too many with blood diseases and cancers. Hopefulness with the start of radiation or other treatment fades to disappointment. Fear threatens to suffocate patients’ dreams of...

THEY SAY never judge a book by its cover. In its spot on the Shelbyville Central High School library shelves, it sat untouched, passed over for the more recent, colorful selections around it. It...

AS THE warm summer sun shines high in the Southern sky, it’s time to embrace the vibrant flavors of the season. Our July recipes showcase the best of summer’s produce, from juicy peaches and crisp...

WHEN I was 8, I wanted to be a teacher. I remember my third grade teacher clicking the chalk on the green board on the wall. And when I was 9, I wanted to be a director. My parents bought me a...

THE RUMBLE of a warbird engine vibrates your stomach as the gleaming restored aircraft taxis past the crowd. Kids press against the fence, eyes wide with excitement, as adults lift phones to snap...

STEP OUT of the stress of your work week and into the past a few hours every fourth Friday, April through October, on the Shelbyville square. Vintage and antique automobiles, along with more recent...

YOU’VE DREAMED of owning a home for years and promise yourself each rent payment will soon be your last. Perhaps your family has outgrown your current home, or you no longer need the extra space,...

IF YOU took a snapshot of any moment in our country’s history, there is a hurt we were trying to heal. The same is true today. It’s our independence that lets us correct our wrongs, to heal, and to...

WHAT BETTER time to indulge in the ultimate celebration of all things American: backyard barbecues, July Fourth festivities, and the comforting flavors of home? Let’s salute the classic dishes that...

THIS TINY building with a huge following has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals throughout town. The Southern Cup is in a cozy corner in the middle of town. This drive-thru-only cafe may...

AS TRAFFIC came and went along Madison Street, a two-lane main street through the heart of Shelbyville in 1975, late model, pre-owned cars lined the lot of Ernie Cook & Son Motors. Once you’d...

THERE WAS always a place for them. In Jessica O’Neal’s childhood home, their names were all different, but the loving spirit they brought with them was the same. They were children and teenagers...

PERCHED ATOP a stool in the colorful Bad Rabbit Art Studio, 8-year-old Weston Johnson glances thoughtfully from a photo to the artboard beside it, brush in hand. The iconic Stonehenge emerges stroke...

SUMMER IS coming. And surely your home will sit empty for a week in this heat. The playful cheers of the kids on summer break go missing for a week that was planned for a year. The dishes sit in the...

HERE’S THE scoop — Nash Family Creamery has perfected form, function, design, and deliciousness with each masterfully crafted sandwich or scoop of flavorful ice cream. As I pulled into Nash Family...

WHEN YOU step into Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio on the Shelbyville square, you enter more than a cosmetics and gift shop. You step into the legacy of Merle Norman, a visionary cosmetician who,...

THE HUM of the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit had become the summer’s soundtrack, a constant drone against the chirping crickets and the distant rumble of lawnmowers. But...

INSIDE HERITAGE Jewelers on the Shelbyville square, each gleaming gem seated in engagement rings and wedding sets, earrings, fashion rings, and estate jewelry is poised to hold a memory, a...

THE ECONOMIC Policy Institute reports that for every dollar spent at a locally owned business, 68 cents of it stays in the local economy. Compare this to 32 cents staying in a local community when...

LOCATED IN the Piggly Wiggly parking lot, the aroma of smoky barbecue wafts from the Holy Smokes BBQ food truck, luring patrons in with every sniff of the air. As a connoisseur of all cuisine, and...

THINK SCHOOLS, and you immediately picture students in class, heads bent over computers and notebooks, and teachers at the front of the room leading lessons. You see the principal walking the halls...

FEW NAMES appear in resolutions adopted by the Tennessee House of Representatives, but it’s a recognition claimed by Julie Haynes and Layne Draper-Talbott. Haynes, Bedford County Schools’ Supervisor...

AS DR. COLT Boyce walks the halls of Community Elementary School, the unmistakable sense of belonging he feels within the school’s walls doesn’t just come from doing the work he loves but from where...

THE METAL beams tick, tick, tick with every inch the cart climbs to the top of the hill. The experienced thrill-seekers in the front cart raise their hands as the coaster inches toward the climax of...

LIFE WAS good; it was normal, something Samantha Shreve, then 29, didn’t realize was so precious. As a dental assistant in a local office, catching up with patients was normal. As a mom to two...

WE OFTEN overlook the significance of basic abilities such as independence, clear sight, good hearing, problem-solving skills, and easy access to essential resources. Navigating the challenges...

IT’S HARD to tell what’s shining the brightest — the Saturday morning sun or the smiles of those gathered outside Gateway (GTWY) Church’s building on Madison Street in Shelbyville. Children laugh...

IN THE quiet corners around us, away from negativity, thrive the true heartbeats of our community — the local charities and the selfless individuals who support them. It’s in these spaces, often...

I’VE KEPT my eyes on Nenitas Delicias for quite a while now and was lucky enough to catch them for lunch one day. The star of my visit was undoubtedly the miniature pancakes adorned with brownie...

IT’S TIME for embracing warmth, love, and the joy of sharing delicious meals with those closest to our hearts. As we endure the lingering winter days, here’s a selection of recipes filled with...

ONCE A week and on holidays, Randy and Edwina (“Wina”) Reynolds make room in their modest home. The goal: memories. The tables are set, and the family meal waits in the kitchen more patiently than...

LINDSEY TRICE was stuck. Life as she knew it changed forever on Mother’s Day in 2018 when she returned home from church to find her father lifeless. “I tried to resuscitate him. [I] tried to do all...

THE RIVALRY of the hometown teams charges the Friday night air. The center snaps the football, and the quarterback slides the ball into the running back’s hands, consistently moving the chains...

IT'S HOLDING the door open for the person behind you. It's sending a sweet text when they cross your mind. It’s stopping by to say “hi” when they’ve had a bad day. Showing up and showing love is...

WITHIN OUR community and not hours away, Definite Wellness, owned by Candi Kinney, a board-certified family nurse practitioner, is not just a clinic but a beacon of hope and transformation. With a...

“OUR PEOPLE deserve good things, too,” Misty Bennett told her friend, Laura Huggins. One of the good things she had in mind was accessibility to mental health services for everyone in Bedford...

THE FIRST sounds of life are screams and cries of joy. Oxygen fills little lungs for the first time. The lights above are bright. And the beeping machines from every corner of the room can be...

AS WE step into the new year, explore the tastes of hometown healing through recipes built around healthy ingredients. A soup loaded with healthy vegetables flavored with your favorite herbs hits...

BIRRIA TACOS have been hailed as a must-try dish, and Los Hermanos undoubtedly excels in this regard. I couldn’t think of anything better to warm me up on this cold night.  The tacos quickly...

IN A quiet corner of Bedford County, a dedicated woman is on a mission to save the lives of cats, one feline at a time. Blake Nutter is the founder of A Nutter Cat Rescue, a nonprofit organization...

HOME IS a haven of comfort and familiarity, where cherished memories and a sense of belonging intertwine. It’s where laughter echoes through familiar hallways, the aroma of favorite meals dances in...

AS WE emerge from the fog of the pandemic, we’re searching to find balance in how we work today. We loved meeting in our pajama pants (for a while) and appreciated the flexibility of new work...

LIKE THE cozy warmth of a heated blanket, Good News and the holidays are in the air once again. The season of festive lights, crackling fireplaces, and familiar carols is upon us, inviting a sense...

BETH NICOLAY dedicated 31 years to raising her five children. Originally from Ohio, Nicolay dined at the Barrelhouse BBQ in Lynchburg while visiting her oldest daughter and grandchildren five years...

OFFERING MORE than a simple cup of Joe, Koffee Beanz has what it takes to suit everyone’s needs.  Koffee Beanz is not your typical coffee shop; it’s eclectic, cozy, and welcoming, with soft...

WE ENCOUNTER unsung heroes who walk among us without recognition. They may not be wearing a cape and a mask, but they’re a hero regardless. Their unwavering commitment to service and sacrifice makes...

THE SMALLEST building on Shelbyville’s historic square anchors the childhood memories of countless residents. Big enough for only one person, its tiny footprint connects our hearts to the past and...

NOTHING EXCITES me more than the idea of autumn. The trees are beautiful and never fail to take your breath away and then give it back to you. The perfect Saturday is a cool breeze coming in from...

New Alliance Unleashes Unlimited Opportunities for Economic Growth. Shelbyville-Bedford Partnership and Shelbyville Chamber of Commerce recently announced a new collaborative relationship to support...

MORNING GLORY Donuts offers a delightful haven for donut aficionados seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.  From the moment I stepped inside the charming bakery, the sweet aroma of...

OUR HOMETOWN sports is not simply a spectacle of athletic prowess; it is a celebration of the human spirit -- an embodiment of the unwavering bond that emerges when we come together to support our...

Wartrace music legend memorialized with historic marker.  WARTRACE CELEBRATED its musical heritage in June with the unveiling of a marker honoring jazz trombonist Jimmy Cleveland, a Wartrace...

IT’S THAT time of year again when friends gather, jerseys are donned, and anticipation fills the air. Whether you’re an avid sports fan or simply enjoy the camaraderie, there’s one thing that can...

NESTLED WITHIN the heart of Shelbyville lies a culinary treasure steeped in history and renowned for its exceptional burgers — the iconic Pope’s Cafe. Since its establishment, this historic eatery...

RECOVERING FROM drug and alcohol addiction is not only possible, but life can be even more meaningful and beautiful afterward. Just ask Tyler Bowman, founder and CEO of Brooks Healing Center (BHC). ...

INSPIRED BY their own experiences and unique challenges, students from Youth Leadership Bedford recently made a lasting impact by hosting the first annual Benefit For Hope on April 15 at Shelbyville...

THE CALSONIC Arena, located at the Celebration grounds, has a new identity — the Cooper Steel Arena. The exterior and the interior received much-needed updates, including fresh exterior paint, an...

SINCE 1979, Lazarus Lake has organized the annual Strolling Jim Ultra 40 Marathon in Wartrace, Tennessee. According to Lake, some of the best runners in the world have been to Bedford County for the...

TOWN SQUARES are well known for being hubs for the community. Serving as the heart of a community, people gather to socialize, shop, and enjoy several events. While town squares have seen their ups...

AS SOMEONE who has spent a lot of time in Memphis, I consider myself somewhat of a barbecue connoisseur. Sure, Southern barbecue is easy to find, but finding the perfect barbecue is more difficult....

THIS SUMMER, the children on Shelbyville’s south side walked, ran, and jumped with happy feet, not because school was out but because every student at Southside Elementary received a new pair of...

DAN LIPINSKI said, “On the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldier behind. As a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no veteran behind.” It’s a pledge...

AS THE sun casts its golden glow upon our world, we find ourselves awakening to the delights of summer – the vibrant colors, the warm breezes, and the echoes of laughter and togetherness. With the...

IT WAS absent for more than 65 years. There were no blue ribbons, midways, cotton candy, or prized livestock competitions. Multiple generations missed the experience of a local county fair until two...

DICTIONARY ENTRIES identify “community” as a noun, but community at its best is an action verb. Shelbyville’s First Community Bank (FCB) has put community at the heart of its mission for 35 years...

WHEN I think of the next generation, I feel excitement. I want this issue of Good News to be a joyous celebration of the young adults who will be the leaders of tomorrow, carrying the torch of...

ONE OF the most significant accomplishments of health care professionals is patient satisfaction. Bedford County patients offered positive feedback, which resulted in awards to area professionals...

THROUGH THE years, we’ve seen this location change many times. But La Fiesta Grande is quickly becoming the most popular selection so far. Walking through these familiar doors, I was promptly...

COUNTY FAIR beauty pageants are a long-held American tradition. To this day, they remain popular and draw a large crowd of family and friends to support those on stage. For many, it is a rite of...

PROGRAMS LIKE Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library are a blessing, putting books into the hands of children from birth to 5 years. But once a child enters school, their library may not continue to...

NEAREST GREEN Distillery’s local and worldwide influence expanded when it opened its doors to The Humble Baron on March 23, 2023. With something for everyone, The Humble Baron features a 17-station,...

AH, RETIREMENT! We dream about it, save for it, and imagine how we’ll fill our days. While many seniors and retirees find countless ways to spend their time, others discover extra time on their...

THE AIR is thick and heavy, like a woolen blanket draped over the landscape. The sun blazes down, casting a golden glow over the world below. The grass is tall and green, swaying in the breeze like...

THE SETTING was dark and ominous, the plot thrilling and mysterious, and the entertainment value was absolutely off the charts! What else could be expected for the recent production of “Clue” at The...

SUMMER IS a season of warmth, joy, and fun. It is a time when people get together to enjoy the outdoors, dance to great music, and make unforgettable memories. Summer music festivals are a perfect...

IT’S A modern love story. Love at first bite, if you will. It all started with a chicken bacon ranch quesadilla. My love grew stronger with the Kitchen Sink fries, then tragedy struck. The Blue...

FIFTH GRADE is a time of transition — the end of elementary school and the threshold of middle school. It’s a practical time to offer students tools for the prevention of substance abuse like...

MUCH OF education, it feels, centers on a correct answer. Knowing the answer is the key to success, and fourth grade teacher Kelly Heflin gets it in more ways than one.  Many children answer...

A CAMERA’S VIEWFINDER in the hands of a shy, awkward 14-year-old became the portal to a successful professional photography career for Shelbyville’s Nelson Holliman. What began as another way to...

THE ECONOMIC Policy Institute reports that for every dollar spent at a locally owned business, 68 cents of it stays in the local economy. Compare this to 32 cents staying in a local community when...

A LOCAL ORGANIZATION, Bedford Builds for Habitat for Humanity, works year-round to help those in need in Bedford County. Their tireless efforts never cease, and they always look for ways to help the...

FOR THE pinnacle of country cooking, look no further than The Bell Buckle Café. This world-famous restaurant is serving meals reminiscent of eating at Mama’s table for dinner — soul food only found...

I THINK OF education the same way I think of the spring season. In that time of year, out of season and lifeless-looking trees begin to bloom and become like new. The new nutrients, new water, and...

MEMORIES OF books, card catalogs, and hushing librarians come to mind when we recall the libraries of our childhood. We can almost smell that perfect mixture of paper, dust, and nostalgia. Those...

THERE IS at least one in nearly every reader’s home. Barna.com reports that in 2021, approximately half of American adults go to it at least occasionally and that half of the U.S. adults believe it...

LAURENCE J. Peter said, “It’s better to have loved and lost than to have to do 40 pounds of laundry a week.” Erica James-Hernandez, the owner of Fresh Fold Laundry Co., agrees and doesn’t want you...

Sometimes life just isn’t what it seems.  There are situations where we view each other through the fishbowl of life. We watch from outside, sure of what we’re seeing. Meanwhile, inside, life is its...

WHETHER YOU’RE on the go or wanting to eat a meal that’s packed with good for you ingredients, Earth Bar has your back with their multiple options of smoothies, açai bowls and fresh juice shots....

AFTER TWO long years, the Bell Buckle Daffodil Day and Best of the Butts BBQ Cook-Off were back in action. Cozy, little historic Bell Buckle sparkled and shined for the third weekend in March when...

WHEN MARY Beth Gunn and her friends used to hit the tennis courts on high school Friday nights, college championship matches may not have been on her radar, but a love of the game and her...

THE QUAINT town of Wartrace has recently added to its charm with the addition of the Big Creek Winery Tasting Room. The local business recently celebrated its arrival with a grand reopening....

IT’S LUNCHTIME on a Friday, and Mother’s Subs has parked their bright yellow food truck in my work parking lot. My co-workers and I swarmed the vehicle, ready for a delicious meal, and luckily for...

 AT WORK, Eddie Medley wears many hats: job coach, record keeper, counselor, facilitator, job developer, etc. But he said it all comes down to three important tasks: advocate, facilitate, and...

A CHURCH THAT has endured fire, natural disasters, the Civil War, cholera epidemics, and a global pandemic persevered and held its Bicentennial Plus Two celebration Sunday, September 18, 2022. The...

IMAGINE LIFE is a car, and our goal is to make it from one side of the country to the other. The only way to do that is by having a full tank of gas. What is the gas in our lives, as humans, that...

WITH SO many options for Mexican restaurants, how do you stand out from the crowd? Birria pizza, quesadillas with Flaming Hot Cheetos, or elote in a cup sure will help to be unique. These are...

ROSES ARE red, violets are blue, treat your loved one to a treat that is made by you! Whether you’re celebrating the beginnings of a new relationship, or spending the day with your longtime...

CALEB MCCALL walked into Canvas Community Church in Manchester as a young adult, not realizing how big an impact they would make in his journey to restoration. He served as the young adult pastor...

It’s finally here! Although the outside temperature argues for summer, your school spirit knows it’s fall. Tonight you’ve chosen shorts and flip-flops, but soon it will be flannel shirts, pants, and...

RAPID GROWTH in any environment creates challenges. Adolescent rapid growth brings with it complications in healing from injuries, and repetitive sports-related injuries are a particular concern....

LITTLE GUYS dressed out in pads and grass-stained uniforms dot the field. They pass, catch, run, and tackle with the fervor of professional football players, although clumsily at times. With sweat...

SHELBYVILLE IS full of entrepreneurs, pioneers, trendsetters, athletes, engineers, politicians, and everything in between. In this city, one can't help but feel a sense of community with each...

COUNTY MAYOR Chad Graham said he had a broad vision of what he wanted to accomplish before he took office. One of the many things on that list was what he called the "downtown revitalization model."...

BEDFORD COUNTY’S 2021-22 school year was a success, as each school took the time to ensure the highest quality of education for its students. One of the many exciting things about being a part of...

WARREN WELLS reports that the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration facility upgrades are set to begin before the 84th Annual Celebration event. Wells said the upgrades are "more of a capital...

IF YOU’VE never heard of or eaten at Bocelli’s, you must be new to town. Nestled in our beautiful historic square is a restaurant guaranteed to satisfy your Italian cravings. With an updated...

THERE IS strength in numbers. Ask any member of Wartrace’s largest family, the Cataldo family, and they would confirm the saying as true. The family of 15 (13 children born to Don and Janet Cataldo)...

DEFINING THE meaning of teacher requires more than Merriam-Webster; it takes a deeper look and a second glance. More than a job with a summer-long vacation, teachers are motivated by their love for...

SURROUNDED BY a sea of classmates, a student filled with potential may feel invisible or wish he could disappear. Another student’s highest aim might be to coast through school until graduation. One...

WITH THE first cup of steaming coffee in my hand and the stiffness still in my joints, I gently ease into my spot on the couch. A fresh, new day offers a blank page, although the to-do list in my...

THE CLASSROOM is like railroad tracks. Hard workers spent years, decades—centuries even—laying the groundwork for the trains to run smoothly from coast to coast. They’re strong. And they last for...

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DAVID HOWARD had dreams of being a sportswriter. He did something few are able to do— he achieved that dream early in life thanks to the Chattanooga newspaper. Well ahead of the curve,he wanted to...

IT MIGHT be one of the most exciting yet stressful times of the year, rivaling that of Christmas. It requires preparation, planning, logistics, time, and money. I’m almost sure there are military...

AS WE commemorate teachers and their dedication to educating our future leaders, we also recognize the teachers who are no longer formally teaching; their legacies continue to mold the community for...

JUNE HAS been recognized as Dairy Month since 1939, but on June 1, Bedford County Mayor Chad Graham signed the proclamation to further commemorate dairy farmers all over Middle Tennessee. For some...

ALL STUDENTS deserve equal academic success opportunities, but every student learns differently. Over 14,000 students in the state of Tennessee are given a second chance at academic success that...

AFTER A challenging past few seasons, Cascade Middle School’s baseball team recently earned the title of conference champions. Cascade High School alumnus and boys head baseball coach, Justin Reese,...

The newest food truck to grace Shelbyville offers a fresh take on traditional smash burgers and hotdogs, with some amazing side dishes. When I heard about M•A•C Daddies Food Truck, with burgers...

CROWDS OF horse enthusiasts fill the arena, row after row and seat after seat. The silence of the former moments is gone. Slowly, as each new group settles into their box for opening night, the...

IF PLAYING has been a low priority on your agenda, be sure to dedicate some time to it when the new playground is completed at HV Griffin Park. The $750,000 grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)...

Free Dental Clinic One reason to smile is Fredia Flack Lusk, the executive director of the Community Clinic of Shelbyville and Bedford County. When the decision was made to add dental care to the...

THE SHELBYVILLE-BEDFORD Partnership was born out of a need for a county-wide focus on economic and community development. It is tasked with providing the City of Shelbyville and Bedford County with...

TALK TO Bedford County Schools summer learning coordinator Becky Miller for five minutes and you will understand that summer learning isn’t what it used to be. The State of Tennessee passed an...

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KABOOM. LIGHTNING struck a tower of speakers for the horse show. The storm was relentless; it had no signs of stopping. The problem was, it knocked out an entire tower of speakers. A baseball game...

CHARLES MCDONALD is the show chair- man for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, but that’s not the only hat he has worn in the center ring. For the past five decades, Charles has given...

IT WAS a cool summer in Bedford County. School started after the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Students were excited to show off their new school clothes on the grounds. It was the...

Sand Tart Cookies: Submitted by Elizabeth McGee INGREDIENTS 2 sticks butter1 t. vanilla2 1⁄2 c. flour, sifted1 T. sugar1 c. chopped pecans 5 T. powdered sugar DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, cream...

HAVE YOU explored the fresh goodness that is available at the Bedford County Farmers’ Market on Thursdays at 2:30? All of the items available are either grown or produced locally. Along with the...

HAVE YOU helped to break the Bedford County United Way record for “Stuff the Bus” items donated? In 2020 they had over 25,000 school supplies donated to help local students start the school year...

Here are fun facts to challenge your players:  DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE: John Hancock’s was the first and only one on July Fourth. The remaining signatures were added over time, following the...

WHEN VIKTOR Makela arrived in America from Finland, the Statue of Liberty welcomed him. He brought more than a few material possessions with him; he arrived with a heart filled with dreams. Makela...

IF YOU took a snapshot of any 10 years in our country’s history, there is a hurt we were trying to heal. The same is true today. It’s our independence that lets us correct that, to heal, and to...

WE WELCOME a summer celebration more than ever, and Independence Day is the perfect time to gather for food, fun, fireworks, and flag-waving. There’s an event near you, so there’s no excuse for...

HMMM AAAHH. It smells like the weekend. Those grilled pineapple burgers will be lip-smacking, mouthwatering, and juicy down to the last bite. However, what lies on the grill is much more than your...

WHEN I was a young buck, I decided if there was a rule, I was going to break it. There have been many distinct times in my life when I have felt suffocated by others’ control, expectations, or...

THE SHELBYVILLE-BEDFORD 501(c)(3) Community Foundation partnered with Bedford County public safety agencies to create a funding opportunity to improve rescue operations and safety awareness along...

WHAT COMES to mind when you hear the word “Juneteenth?” Some people think of the tireless strides made by civil rights advocates and allies alike, to end the battle against slavery. Others think...

GENEROSITY IS not a new concept for Bedford County, but it is essential to make it a point to recognize acts of kindness whenever we see them. Super Mercado Shelbyville, Los Amigos, Tortilleria...

MANY YOUNG athletes dream of playing sports on a professional level. With the help of his family and the community of Shelbyville, Keon Johnson was able to turn his dreams into reality. ...

EVER SINCE I first ate at Southern Fare restaurant, I knew they would be around for many years to come. Their first location was smaller in size, which could not handle the capacity of patrons...

Tims Ford Reservoir is 10,600 acres in South Central Tennessee, a major portion of which is located in Franklin County. The lake is considered one of the most picturesque in Tennessee. It’s regarded...

Located below Tims Ford Dam, the Elk River is popular for panfish and trout fishing. The tailwaters below the dam are about 50 feet wide with gravel bars and intermittent deep pools. For...

HAVE YOU ever given something away and later felt regret settle in? Last summer, I was push-mowing our grass. I thoroughly enjoy breaking a sweat and getting a little exercise while doing yard work....

According to nature.org, the Duck River is one of the state’s most scenic waterways and North America’s most biologically diverse freshwater river. It is located entirely within the state of...

Whether it’s relaxation or adventure you’re seeking, you don’t have to look far to find it. Middle Tennessee’s waterways will refresh and restore you. A lazy float with nature’s soundtrack of...

Right in our own backyard, we have access to one of the most di- verse ecosystems in the world. Henry Horton State Park (HHSP) neighbors the peaceful Duck River and is waiting to be explored. The...

TENNESSEE MAY not have sandy shores. We may not have Buckingham Palace sitting in our backyard. Vacation spots all around the world, from Big Ben to the Eiffel Tower, attract tourists from far and...

SPANNING 284 miles long, with 87 miles landing in Bedford County, the famous Duck River is where visitors and locals alike enjoy fishing, family picnics, and kayaking, among many other activities....

ROOTED IN African American History, Uncle Nearest Distillery is more than a place for tourists to try new drinks; it is a historical monument and reminder of an incredible moment when a skilled man...

NINETEEN HIGH school seniors from Bedford County Youth Leadership visited the state Capitol on their annual State Government Day trip on Wednesday, March 16, 2022. The purpose of the trip was to...

THE SHELBYVILLE-BEDFORD Partnership recruits new industries and businesses to Shelbyville and Bedford County, but the Partnership also has a robust program to retain and expand existing businesses....

THE WEBB School girls basketball team clinched their 68-point game- winner against Middle Tennessee Christian School, making them TSSAA Division II Class A champions for the second consecutive year....

April 12, 1972, THE BELL BUCKLE SKY was indeed ablaze. The school that housed grades 1-12 was fully engulfed and a total loss. Bell Buckle students finished the school year at Wartrace School. In...

Imagine it, a Friday night after a long week, and you're looking for something fun to do. Somewhere with great food choices, ice cold beer, and and live music. Look no further than The Iron Horse...

IN MAY of each year, the town of Shelbyville starts filling up with King Ranch trucks with massive horse trailers in tow. License plates are caked and covered in dust, as many of these vehicles have...

Easter parades may have passed on by, but its many other traditions are alive and well. Even though the internet has changed how we watch movies, families still watch “The Ten Commandments” every...

AS MORNING’S first light nudged the last of the darkness, Mary Magdalene walked with heavy heart and feet along the dirt road. The garden’s birdsong and fragrant blossoms, usually welcomed,...

GET READY for this year’s series of Fourth Friday Fests on Shelbyville’s Historic Uptown Square. Coinciding with the Celebration City Region Car Club Cruise-In, the festival provides opportunities...

THE MERRIAM-WEBSTER dictionary defines the word selfless as “someone who has no concern for self, or unselfish.” As the world keeps turning, it may feel like selfless people are few and far between....

WEBSTER MAY define selflessness as having no concern for self, but givers in our community give the world and our lives deeper meaning. They take to heart the well-being and care of others and place...

HOMES OF Hope (HOH) of Bedford County is a faith-based nonprofit organization. HOH inspires citizens within the community to recruit families to care for children in crisis. It also provides support...

DORIS SMITH is a retired teacher, volunteer, and advocate for children’s education who learned that teaching and helping others is essential through her spirited Baha’i Faith. She is a 20-year...

ON FEBRUARY 11, the Tennessee Department of Education awarded Bedford County School District the Best for All District Award. Bedford County School District is one of 68 districts to receive the...

THE SHELBYVILLE-BEDFORD Partnership focuses on economic and community development for Shelbyville and Bedford County. The Partnership’s efforts focus on retaining existing business and industry and...

ATHLETICS COORDINATOR for Shelbyville Parks and Recreation Department Jace Mallory began working at the rec center on January 5, 2021. He came from Louisiana, where he graduated with a media degree...

IN 2021, Bell Buckle was named the South’s best small town by Southern Living magazine; what an honor for this quaint town in Bedford County, Tennessee to receive! According to Southern Living’s...

I’VE BEEN very excited to get to Ruth’s Kitchen and try her food. When the announcement broke on Facebook, Shelbyville responded with such enthusiasm, and it shows. At 9:40 a.m. the place was packed...

CHILDREN’S BASKETBALL is just one of many sports that impact children’s health and development. Bedford County school districts are making it a point to ensure elementary-aged basketball players are...

AS THE regal, iridescent purple martins flew in and out of their colony housing, she pointed and asked through my phone’s translator, “Can I take one home?” Over the birds’ noisy chatter, I...

THE POTHOS plants on the kitchen window seal are from your grandmother last summer. The welcome mat has little specks of dirt from your brother’s boots from his visit over the weekend. Your favorite...

THERE IS no doubt that the city of Shelbyville is growing at accelerated rates. Shelbyville Fire and Police Departments continue to adapt to such growth and make the city a safer place one day at a...

DESPITE THE tremendous staffing shortage Bedford County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) faced this past year, the level 1 ambulance service is combating such issues by teaching training programs...

BEDFORD COUNTY School District is constructing its new and highly anticipated elementary school. District Superintendent Dr. Tammy Garrett reports that a new elementary school has been in the works...

THE SHELBYVILLE-BEDFORD Partnership, the local economic development organization, is actively working on more than 16 projects in the City of Shelbyville and Bedford County. 10 of the projects...

DID YOU know the holiday involving copious amounts of green beer is actually an Irish holiday celebrating Christianity? It is! In fact, the holiday is held each year on the anniversary of Saint...

WELCOME HOME. That’s how it feels when walking into Mai House Asian Cuisine for the first time. I was promptly greeted by some of the nicest staff I've ever met in the restaurant industry, which...

DRIVING PAST historic Bell Buckle at night, one might mistake the small cluster of buildings for a sleepy little town with not much going on. However, anyone who has stopped and spent time in this...

AT SHELBYVILLE Mayor Eugene Ray’s funeral, Fredia Lusk saw evidence of a well-lived life. As Shelbyville’s first and only African American mayor to date, Ray’s legacy was more than a statistic. Lusk...

INDUSTRIAL PARK INVESTMENT Planning and Community Development Director Waleed Albakry said some of the main changes in community planning are rezoning the Industrial Park to I-3 to allow for more...

THOMAS MAGNET School’s fifth- grade students impact the lives of their peers by celebrating random acts of kindness. Fifth-grade teacher Tara Turner said that Thomas Magnet School Principal Mrs....

FOUR DAYS before Christmas, the City of Shelbyville and Bedford County received news of $1,000,000 headed to the local area from the State of Tennessee. Tennessee Governor Lee and Department of...

CASCADE HIGH School Marching Band, led by band director David Lucich, finished 4th place in the Division II state championship, and their hard work, both on and off-season, pays off. They honed...