Sometimes the road we take leads us back home. Such is the case for Jeff Damron. He was only 15 when he took on his first job as a referee for the city’s church basketball league, and he continued...

The eerie wail of Tullahoma’s tornado siren bellowed on Aug. 1, 2012. Storms beat down on houses, structures stood braced against high winds, and power lines began to fall. Monty Hawkins clocked in...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Alley Dogs. Sometimes you don’t need a fancy night out....

According to statistics from the FBI, an estimated 460,000 children in the United States are reported missing every year. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation estimates 500-600 children are...

Come. Sit. Stay. Though these words are usually reserved for favorite pooches, entrepreneur Shelby Dowdy-Scrivnor proudly proclaims these words to her favorite customers, both regulars and those...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Hometown BBQ Shack. Before you even put the truck in...

There's something special about hometown sports. It’s not just the final score or the Friday night lights. It’s the stories behind the people wearing the jerseys, coaching from the sidelines, or...

At just 8 years old, Easton “Kid Rocket” Daddio is already making a name for himself on the racetrack. But behind the quick reflexes and growing list of accomplishments is still a regular little boy...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Kountry Kafe. If you're looking for the kind of local...

Thousands of people gathered at Arnold Air Force Base on June 27 as the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) celebrated its 75th anniversary with a public open house. The daylong event...

PARTNERS FOR Healing compassionately serves the working uninsured in Coffee, Franklin, and Moore counties. This year, it is celebrating 25 years of providing free health care to eligible adults...

AT BEL-AIRE Elementary School’s kindergarten graduation, teachers asked what each student wanted to be when they grew up. Will Spurgeon, the school resource officer (SRO), stood in the back and...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Yamato Japanese Steakhouse. IF YOU’RE looking for a...

UNITED WAY of South Central Tennessee hosted its annual United in Spirits fundraiser on Saturday, June 13, at the historic Jack Daniel’s BBQ Hill in Lynchburg. The event welcomed 250–300 community...

BRITTANY SMITH rarely checked her Ring camera, but that Tuesday, she did. She wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary. It was just another moment in a life full of work, raising three...

AT 14, Brett Henley came home from school expecting a normal afternoon. Instead, his father greeted him with a surprise. “You’ve got a job,” he said. Fifteen minutes later, Henley walked into the 41...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Bluegill Grill. AT BLUEGILL Grill, the menu reads like a...

THE TULLAHOMA Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC) hosted its annual Women Impacting the Community awards luncheon on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, sponsored by SmartBank. The event celebrates local women who...

CHAMBERS OF commerce boost local economies and strengthen communities. This past year, the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC) stood out, earning the statewide 2025 Chamber of the Year award....

Story and photos courtesy of TCS Communications Specialist, Zach Birdsong TULLAHOMA CITY Schools had 44 students qualify for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited One22West. TUCKED JUST off the square, One22West is one...

WOMEN’S RECOVERY program Miriam’s House recently held a garden gala on March 28, bringing together supporters and community members to highlight the organization’s work and its impact on women in...

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...

JOHN CRAWFORD’S love of music began early, tapping in rhythm at 4 years old, belting out the “Love Boat” theme into a makeshift microphone in his living room at age 10, and later teaching himself...

WEST MIDDLE School computer education teacher, Franklin Cammack, is a fan of many things, but the Marvel Universe holds a special place on that list. Spider-Man, Thor, Captain America, and the Hulk...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited The Sammich Shack. YOU’LL USUALLY find The Sammich Shack...

Press release submitted by Zach Birdsong, Tullahoma City Schools communications specialist TULLAHOMA HIGH School sophomore Legend Tipps was notified recently that he is a recipient of the Silver Key...

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...

MUTT SUTTLES doesn’t describe himself as extraordinary, even though the evidence lines the walls of his studio. Oil portraits of presidents, engineers, children, and parents long gone all surround...

Press release submitted by Zach Birdsong, communications specialist JUST BEFORE winter break, the Tullahoma band programs announced that four students received All-State selections, and a total of...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Spinelli’s Pizza. SOME PLACES don’t try to impress you —...

BOASTING A record-breaking 511 members, the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC) had much to celebrate during its 2025 Annual Membership Celebration, “Our proudest achievement came when we were...

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...

WE ALL need a place to feel safe, a place where we can be ourselves. Landon Shelby recognizes that need. He and his fellow staff and church members are working to make Grace Baptist Church in...

IN AND around Tullahoma, it’s easy to recognize Daryl Welch. For 25 years, he’s been the friendly face behind countless successful real estate deals and one of the area’s most trusted brokers with...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Nicholas Family Restaurant. IN A town where trends come...

ON THE morning of Dec. 16, 2025, in Tullahoma, chamber members trickled in with coffee cups in hand, greeting friends and introducing themselves to faces they hadn’t yet met. Some conversations were...

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...

WHEN ROGER, an Iraq War veteran, celebrated at the edge of a horse show ring this summer — phone in hand, music playing, wearing a big grin — Marty and Jennifer Barr could hardly believe their eyes....

Press release submitted by Tullahoma City Schools; Zach Birdsong, Communications Specialist ON OCT. 15, Tullahoma City Schools shared that West Middle School’s Kathy McMillan was named the 2026...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited The Albatross Cafe. THE ALBATROSS Cafe doesn’t shout for...

ON THE Saturday before Thanksgiving, late-November weather sets the tone for the holidays ahead. That’s when Tullahoma gathers for one of its most beloved traditions: the Annual Wobble Gobble...

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...

BEFORE SUNRISE, IWS Logistics Inc. (IWS) — a locally owned company specializing in logistics, manufacturing, and transportation — is already in motion. The staff coordinates routes, oversees...

THE DAY begins early for Mike Shirley; often before the first bell rings or the sun peeks over the horizon. As a bus driver for students who have special needs at Tullahoma City Schools, Shirley...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Backroad Brew. TULLAHOMA HAS a way of hiding its best...

AN EVENING of fun, fellowship, and philanthropy filled the Lakewood Golf and Country Club on Thursday, Oct. 30, as the GFWC Centennial Woman’s Club and the spirited Bunco Babes of Tullahoma hosted...

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,...

THE DAYS are busy for Normandy Fish Hatchery Manager Nathan Singer. From checking water quality and temperature for optimal growth conditions, recording health metrics, coordinating fish transport,...

EQUINE ASSISTED Services offers profound physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits for individuals of all ages, especially children. It enhances balance, coordination, and muscle tone while...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Luna Café Donuts and More. IF YOU’RE looking for a...

THE TULLAHOMA Area Chamber of Commerce geared up to celebrate some of the community’s brightest young stars for its annual 40 Under 40 | Recognizing Young Professionals event, which took place on...

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...

THE RED Raiders stadium was packed as thousands of football fans gathered to witness Coffee County history: The 100th Coffee Pot. The Coffee Pot is the annual football game between Coffee County...

AT 31,000 feet above Hiroshima, Maj. Clyde Kendall Rees received an order that would unknowingly make him a witness to a pivotal moment in history: “Start taking pictures and don’t stop!” His...

WALLS WERE carefully stripped away, panel by panel, as a small crew deconstructed an old, battered home on land that Clark Bussell had purchased to expand his landscaping business. A gentleman had...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Whiskey Trail BBQ & Steakhouse. IF YOU’RE craving...

“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...

PLANTING A summer vegetable garden, installing a fence to keep your animals safe, replacing a mailbox post, or simply digging a hole for a single shrub may seem harmless. But according to the Elk...

RUSSELL BARNETT built his automotive business the same way he raised his family: with integrity, faith, and an unfailing commitment to putting people first. When his father, Albert Barnett, started...

THE DELICIOUS aroma of warm, fresh-baked bread permeates Gracie Austell’s home. The young entrepreneur crafts each loaf with finesse, just the way her nana taught her. Austell’s younger sister,...

KYLEE HOLT stands at ease in front of Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce members attending one of the monthly coffee meetings. She speaks eloquently, introducing herself and giving updates on her...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Legacy Creamery. EXPLORING HIDDEN gems in small-town...

THE EXPANSIVE porch of Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. (George Dickel Distillery) transforms into an outdoor stage for spirited live music during Front Porch Fridays, held monthly from May to October...

GOOD NEWS IS COMING TO DINNER! We will feature a local food critic’s thoughts as they dine in Tullahoma. This month, Tabitha Buckner visited Piggy’s Place Bar-B-Que. Piggy’s Place exudes the...

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...

SHOES SQUEAK against the polished wood of the basketball court, and the swoosh of a ball passing through the net is barely heard over the audience's cheering. Tim Behrendorff proudly watches from...

IT WAS another Friday night under the bright stadium lights for Franklin County High School varsity football player Dawson Sowers, who was in his senior year. The tension on the field was palpable,...

LOCAL CRAFTERS enjoyed selling handmade treasures at the Second Annual Summer Craft Fair on July 13, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. On that Sunday afternoon, colorful tents lined the parking lot in front of...

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...

TYLER WALLS is not just a school resource officer. At Robert E. Lee Elementary, he is a mentor when he talks to kids in the halls, a teacher when he goes to the classroom to talk about his job, a...

CATHERINE “CAT” Murray never quits. When days turn hard, evenings bring fatigue, and nights offer no rest, she keeps going — not for her own gain, but to serve the people around her. Her fight and...

THE END of May buzzes with anticipation as locals await upcoming vacations, festivals, and holidays. Live on the Lawn, hosted by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Centennial Woman’s...

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...

“IN WHATEVER we’re doing, whether it’s at church, at home, our neighbors, ball, or whatever it may be, we just try to love on people,” Renea Rice said. And that goal captures the essence of the Rice...

WATER’S EDGE Chocolates in Tullahoma recently hosted a heartwarming community event to debut its brand-new “You Are” line of chocolate bars. This inspiring series centers around uplifting and...

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...

BRIANNA HALE always knew she wanted to run her own business — she just didn’t know what kind. With a degree in business, she initially started out making and selling home decor, but setting up for...

WHEN LEXIE Heath first stepped inside the historic Daniel House at 206 E. Lincoln St., she felt its history settle around her — there was something undeniably special about the place. But nothing...

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...

THE FIRST thing you notice when stepping into Tullahoma middle and high schools is the creativity — a nice blend of colors, movement, and melody coming from every corner. The gymnasium boasts...

THERE’S A certain kind of light that shines on people who have walked through darkness and come out the other side. You can see it in Anthony and Jessica Earhart, the husband-and-wife duo behind...

ANDREA PARSON leaned in at a corner lunch table in Robert E. Lee Elementary’s cafeteria. Her genuine smile set the tone as students opened up about their day. Between bites of lunch, she helped them...

IN TULLAHOMA, painted murals brighten alleyways, sharing its history while offering a hopeful glimpse into the future. Welcoming storefronts invite neighbors and visitors to linger just a little...

ON A warm summer afternoon, a group of volunteers from The Legacy Church gathered in the parking lot of an apartment complex just a stone’s throw from their new building. Church members unloaded...

GLOVES HIT punching bags, and their thuds infuse a large gym at FIT Beyond Therapy. The beat of tenacity bounces off the walls. Intensity and focus flow through the room, where Parkinson’s warriors...

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,...

When you walk through the doors of Blessed Forever Aesthetics in Tullahoma, you’re stepping into Shannon Cole’s world. Every detail, from the calming colors on the walls to the gentle sound of...

It’s Monday evening in Tullahoma, and the gym at Grace Baptist Church is full of life. The lights are low, the disco ball is spinning, and the room resounds with upbeat music as women of all ages...

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...

Orthopedic Surgery is advancing at an unprecedented pace in a rapidly evolving medical field. Amid these essential advancements, it’s reassuring to know that a love for humanity can surpass even the...

When Christine Jones pops her head into the class at Bel-Aire Elementary School, one child’s smile lights up the room. He runs to her, bursting to tell her about his week as they head to the...

The audience holds its breath as the velvet curtain rolls back, revealing the stage of Tullahoma’s South Jackson Performing Arts Center (SJPAC). This moment, repeated numerous times over the years,...

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...

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....

Lisa Marcrom's fingers glided across her client’s tense muscles, a particular relaxation method that seemed to soothe the body and mind. The client’s crumpled brow started to soften as her hands...

Catherine Stephens didn’t plan a career as a superintendent — it developed naturally, like a story she was meant to live. Early in the mornings, one could find her in the classroom, her smile...

A house mother stepped out of her small cottage, clutching a book in her hand. It was warm outside, but what truly stirred the ground were the joyful shouts and the pattering of tiny feet. Children...

Walking toward the door, you are greeted by neon lights and colorful architecture at Casa Mexico. Smiling faces lead you to your table, welcoming you into a cozy interior with music playing and a...

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...

IN THE very gym where they once raced across the court, ponytails flying and coaches calling plays in sync with dribbling basketballs, Julia Duncan and McKenna Buckner now stride courtside with...

HERE IN Tullahoma, hometown charm and strong community bonds aren’t hard to find. Community leaders, advocates, lawmakers, construction workers, farmers, educators, and medical professionals all...

MIDDLE TENNESSEE represents new beginnings, summer vacations, or job relocations for some. But for many, it symbolizes history. Betty (Newman) Fraley, born in 1934 on Bradley’s Creek in Coffee...

WALKING INTO London’s Restaurant and Bar in downtown Tullahoma, we were greeted by many friendly faces and even a few familiar ones. We grabbed a seat and immediately started perusing the full menu....

S HE 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...

THERE’S A new culinary chef in town, and his audience has four legs and a wagging tail. Daniel Mahon, a local community member, has recreated delicious, allergy-free dog treats. Mahon has become a...

THE GREEN brush conceals the early morning sun, just above a cluttered workspace surrounded by woodlands, high above ground. Here, amongst the trees, Mike Dent spends time crafting his award-winning...

THE SOUND of the engines filled Keith Thornburgh’s ears as he glanced outside the open door. A plot of green stretched below, dotted with tiny figures — the Normandy, France countryside bright with...

WHEN WALKING through the doors at La Fiesta Bar & Grill, a vibrant, lively atmosphere and smiling faces greet you. Traditional Mexican decor, colorful murals, and a casual yet festive vibe set...

GONDOLA RESTAURANT is a family-owned and -operated restaurant serving delicious food and small-town charm. Each time you enter, you are greeted by a chorus of smiles as you are led to your table....

COL. PHILLIP Newman wasn’t looking for a prestigious singing career when he joined the Marine Corps. Joining the service during the Vietnam era, he saw the Naval Academy as a path to both education...

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,...

TRUDY AND Lewis Guthrie, drawn to the tranquility and challenges of farm life, found a fulfilling new chapter on a farm here in Tullahoma. They remarkably transitioned from urban living in Marietta,...

ANGLEA MILLER’S eyes sparkled upon her first encounter with a feverfew two years ago. A world of local blooms she had never heard of unfolded before her like a secret garden. This passion grew from...

DAMRON’S RESTAURANT is more than just a great place for breakfast or lunch — it is a Tullahoma institution. This small family restaurant serves both breakfast and lunch all day, so everyone is sure...

SAM MELTON perched on the edge of the bench, the buzz of spring training swirling around him — but his focus was solely on Ted Williams. The legendary hitter’s gaze was sharp as he analyzed the...

GROWING UP on a farm teaches you a lot about life — hard work, commitment, respect, and the resilience to get back up when you fall. For Leslie Copeland, these lessons have profoundly shaped her...

THE CLAMOR of the crowd at Tom Black Track filled the air as a small boy, barely 4 years old, was hoisted high above the grounds by his father. Giant shadows stretched from the packed bleachers,...

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...

TUCKED AWAY in the heart of Tullahoma, Sushi Thai offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and Thai cuisines, creating a dining experience that is both familiar and exciting. As you step inside, the...

AT JUST 12 years old, Angie Sanders’ mother was brutally murdered at the hands of an abusive ex-boyfriend. It was a nightmare that never seemed to end. The trauma left scars that wouldn’t heal for...

THE STADIUM lights blurred as Leslie Henley Trussler raced down the runway, her heart hammering a counterpoint to the roaring crowd. The wind whipped past, whispering doubts such as “too fast” and...

JULIA BROWN beamed as her students mastered their addition and subtraction skills, but a flicker of something else crossed her eyes as she watched them at recess. Brown had noticed a connection...

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...

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...

DOT WATSON'S life began at 308 N. Atlantic St. in Tullahoma, a place that would shape the foundation of her values and convictions. Growing up in a household that cherished giving back, her parents...

FIFTY-EIGHT YEARS. It has been 58 years since the last time a drink threatened to swallow him whole. At Serenity House, surrounded by encouraging conversations and love, it felt less like a battle...

WALKING THROUGH the double doors, a medley of grunts, thuds, and sneakers squeaking against polished floors fills the air. Bodies blur across the spring floor, twisting, leaping, and defying...

IN THE heart of Tullahoma, Emil’s Bistro and Lounge is sophisticated yet warm. Housed in a charming, historic building just off the downtown square, Emil’s welcomes guests into a world of elevated...

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...

“JACQUELINE SULLENGER-PAINTER has changed the world with her teaching,” said her mother, Kim Dodson. “She is a certified teacher who owns Caterpillar Academy in Tullahoma, and she’s overcome many...

FINGERS FLY across keyboards, the click-clack filling the air, accented by occasional work anecdotes and lively conversations. Unlike a traditional office, this space is laden with a different kind...

YOU’RE CRUISING down a scenic highway in Middle Tennessee with the windows rolled down. A gentle breeze, carrying the sweet, oaky scent of aging whiskey, overtakes you. It’s an invitation to slow...

BE STILL, my grease-saturated heart. And I mean that as a compliment! Have you ever walked into a restaurant and immediately felt right at home, like you’re waiting for your grandma to come out of...

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...

Tickets to the eighth annual Dustin Lynch and Friends Benefit Concert held at Lynch’s alma mater, Tullahoma High School, sold out quickly as fans flocked to see the triple-platinum award-winning...

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...

TULLAHOMA STANDS out as a perfect spot for business enthusiasts, especially those with an appreciation for the taste of smooth Tennessee whiskey. This city, with its deep roots in whiskey...

WELCOME TO Daddy Billy’s Restaurant & Bar, a local watering hole where great dining meets the vibrant atmosphere of a bar, all in one clean and cozy space. Upon entering, you are greeted by the...

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...

EIGHT-YEAR-OLD LEANNE Hale and her sister, Gina, dreamed of owning horses. Little did Leanne know that this dream would win her championships as a horsewoman and ignite a philanthropic journey. She...

IN THE warm, sunlit kitchen of Just Like Granny’s in Tullahoma, magic is made. Lisa Beasley is a symbol of Southern hospitality, her hands lovingly preparing dishes steeped in tradition and comfort....

THE DESPERATE man received his emergency cataract surgery on Friday, saving his sight. The grandmother saw her grandchild following the removal of her cataracts. The woman in the shelter? Yes, she,...

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...

TULLAHOMA IS home to many great places to eat, and not all of them can be found in the same place every day. Tullahoma food trucks sell everything from burgers and tacos to barbecue and...

THEY SAY that home is where the heart is, but a lot goes into finding where your heart lies. Finding a home is not just about finding a place to live; it’s about finding a sense of community and...

MEG GLENN IS nothing if not bold. Though involved in various businesses in her home state of Washington, she decided to broaden her geographical horizons on a whim. Within a few months, she, her...

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...

DEFINING SCIENCE isn’t always easy, but ask Bill Boss to define it, and he will point you to Tullahoma’s Hands-On Science Center. Science is a big, fun adventure where we try to understand how...

BECAUSE MOST students welcome a chance to get out of class, anticipation builds as the first student group gathers in East Middle School’s theatre for an unnamed guest speaker. Students still in...

THE MORNING sun spotlights the American flag as they recite the Pledge of Allegiance, then join hands and pray. Their bowed heads pop up like toast as the young people anticipate circle time. This...

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...

THE MUSIC with Michele music studio is making waves in Tullahoma, offering a unique approach to music education, teaching that healing power can come with teaching and learning music.  A...

SHE PACKED her school supplies days earlier. After the shopping trip with her mom, she carefully picked out her favorite colors and the latest styles, her thoughts racing between which teachers...

THE ALARM goes off, but you can’t stand the thought of getting ready for work yet. You snooze it, and 15 minutes later, the only thing that has changed is the time. You know you face a day filled...

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...

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...

THS Tennis Team Donates Old Tennis Balls to Police K-9 Unit.  You can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can give old tennis balls to a certified police service dog. That is exactly what...

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...

AUTUMN BRINGS a bounty of delicious foods to enjoy as the weather cools down. From sweet to savory, there are plenty of flavors to savor during the fall season. Nothing quite beats a warm apple...

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...

IN THE vast arena of life, there is a paramount lesson that champions across all disciplines have learned: the significance of believing in oneself and casting aside the weight of others’ opinions....

The department of Education released individual district scores Tuesday for the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) and End Of Course (EOC) test results.  TCAP scores are based on...

West Middle School had six Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students win awards and had the district’s first-ever National Champion when the National Leadership Conference concluded in...

Richie Chadwick serves Tullahoma City Schools (TCS) as a high school counselor and head coach for the Wildcats soccer team, a dual role he juggles effortlessly. As an avid soccer player, Chadwick...

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...

TCS Named 2023 Best Communities for Music Education Award Winner.  FOR THE second year, Tullahoma City Schools (TSC) has been awarded the Best Communities for Music Education Award by the...

Whether it's the heart-pounding rush and anticipation of the emergency room (ER) or the quieter scene of the classroom where students are learning about all of the possibilities of the medical...

As a member of a group of people that only make up about 14% of the country’s population, and as a woman, I have faced unique challenges and experiences that have shaped my identity and journey of...

The room was filled with chatter and laughter while ladies reminisced over years of meetings and events where friendships were made, knowledge was gained, and the community was served. It was indeed...

"We can all do more than nothing,” said Dr. Monica Blake-Beasley. As the keynote speaker for the Women Impacting the Community event held on May 9, she recalled how she learned to “fail forward.” In...

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...

Summertime is the perfect time for many things, such as fireworks, going for a swim, barbecuing, and ice cream, just to name a few. It’s also the perfect time for outdoor music. Grabbing a couple of...

As the lazy days of summer drift into the warm embrace of August, our taste buds welcome the vibrant flavors offered by nature. The richness of the harvest season arrives as farmers markets brim...

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...

We saw the sky but little else through the window in the room where we sat. The gray and white clouds marched briskly by as blues and grays traded places.  She was convinced the clouds would bring...

As summer heats up, so do our grills and smokers, giving our kitchens a well-deserved break. Casual worknight dinners, weekend celebrations, and holiday parties bring together families for good food...

Making its mark as a must-visit small town, Tullahoma is one of three towns in Tennessee that recently appeared in a ranking of the best small towns in the country. Coming in at 23rd, Tullahoma was...

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...

Want to know how to save your house plant? Or are you looking for a way to find locally sourced products? Maybe you’ve just bought a few chickens and need to know the best food to feed them. This is...

The Motlow college College Theatre department recently presented the iconic “Chicago the Musical” production for its latest production.  Set in Chicago in the jazz age, the musical is based on a...

The breeze carries a hickory-smoked aroma from the nearby grill throughout the backyard as the family laughs and catches up in the early summer sunshine. It’s Dad’s day, but any excuse to get...

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...

It is the best of times; it is (sometimes) the worst of times. I have three children, ages 16, 12, and 5. It’s not lost on me how fast they grow. Now, with a child who is nearing 18, it really does...

TedxTullahoma recently held its third annual South Jackson Civic Center event. The event featured people from different walks of life sharing their inspiring stories. Speakers included Arianna...

They say home is where the heart is; for one local nonprofit organization, it is their mission to bring the hearts of well-deserved citizens home. With that mission in mind, the Highland Rim Habitat...

Local business owners, community leaders, and chamber members recently came together for the annual 2022 Membership Celebration hosted by the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce. Held at the...

Ever catch the aroma of a memory? You know the one — your mama’s Sunday pot roast, fried onions and potatoes, chocolate chip cookies, or cinnamon rolls? We do our best to recreate them for our...

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...

Star olympian Usain Bolt is known as the fastest man in the world, and his reputation was cemented when he won the gold medal in the 100-meter race at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2012 London...

Patsy Moore, Ann Black Jennings, Ginny Pack, and Sheila Seay — each is considered somewhat royalty in the Tullahoma City School System, even if they don’t realize it. They spent decades molding...

Sophomore Kaitlyn Brown is paving the way for young girls in the local Scouting community. In 2019, she joined Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Troop 1581. Her membership came after a nationwide...

The Highland Rim Scottish Society (HRSS) celebrated Burns Night, a celebration of the famous Bard of Scotland, Robert “Rabbie” Burns, and all things Scottish. The annual festivities are a welcome...

Many verses in the Bible tell of the goodness and fulfillment of helping others.  Acts 20:35 states, “In everything, I have shown you that, by working hard, we must help the weak. In this way, we...

It’s hard to want to eat a large meal after a long day working or playing out in the blistering heat. You know you need something substantial to sustain you, yet you’re so worn out. Those hearty...

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...

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...

The Motlow State women’s soccer team ended the most successful season in program history with a pair of 3-0 losses in the NJCAA women’s soccer championship held in Evans, Georgia. The Bucks (16-5)...

This quote by author and pastor John C. Maxwell speaks to why a leader is the perfect mix of courage, vulnerability, and strength. Leaders have been there and know what is needed to ensure a...

Kids are barreling through the door after school, complaining that they are starving! It’s the age-old gripe of children, no matter how old. We all know that kiddos often get hungry between meals....

We feel the most comfortable when we know where we’re going. Knowing our destination, all the familiar landmarks along the way, and where we’ll settle in once we’ve arrived gives us a sense of...

Mardi Gras is a holiday known across the country and the world. It is a magical time of celebration that includes brightly colored decorations, parades, good food, and lots of fun. A legal holiday...

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...

Helping others has always been the ultimate goal for Emilie Martin. As a child, she was drawn to her aunt, an emergency room doctor. She spent time watching medical videos knowing that someday she...

If you ever want to see what sunshine looks like when encased in human form, look no further than Tullahoma resident Deanna Thomas. Her smile warms everyone who receives it, and her bubbly...

Just over 100 years ago, women finally received what other Americans, but not all, already had — the right to vote. Now, we have the opportunity to lift up and celebrate the groundbreaking women...

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...

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...

I don't know a stranger. Call it a hazard of my job as a writer, but I genuinely enjoy meeting people, and it is even better if I can turn them into friends. There’s a great quote by Maya Angelou...

You know police officers, firefighters, judges, administrators, and more are working every day to support the City of Tullahoma. But do you know what that work actually looks like? Most residents...

Tullahoma welcomed another running event in December at the 66th Annual Tullahoma Christmas Parade: the Mistletoe Mile Fun Run. In true festive fashion, participants raced in costume down Jackson...

This November, the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Tullahoma's 40 Under 40 for the second time in history. The idea behind recognizing local professionals was honor. Chamber Executive...

Longtime resident Lynn Brumfield has spent much of her professional career at Cubic Transportation Systems in Tullahoma. However, after around 20 years of service at Cubic, Brumfield was approached...

The year was 1977, and the decision had been made that the best option for Tullahoma’s first school, South Jackson School, was to destroy it. In their defense, it was falling apart, and although it...

On January 31, 1865, the United States Congress passed an amendment to the Constitution. It would be the 13th change or addition to the Constitution up to that point in history, and its goal was to...

How do you and your loved ones bring in the new year? Do you take time to reflect, journal, and perhaps write new goals? Do you pray and worship? How about throwing a party? Do you and your family...

As he sits back in the chair to smile for a picture, he laughs. “It’s not often I’m sitting still,” he said, smiling. Just as soon as it is taken, the Tullahoma City Schools (TCS) maintenance...

When the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) is brought up, most people think of aerospace engineers and complicated experiments. The reality, however, is that one of the largest and most...

Since 1959, the Tullahoma Swim Club has been making a splash in the community. Over the years they have added a team at Tullahoma High School and most recently a middle school team for both East and...

Thick black smoke pours out of an old home that sits back off of a long winding road. Though the scene looks relatively calm to the naked eye, appearances can be deceiving. Inside, red, orange, and...

Whether good or bad, some of the most memorable moments of a person’s life have been inside the walls of a sterile hospital. For some people, those days are incredibly painful to reflect on or...

When tragedy and hardship strike, we want to help. We demonstrate our love and care in various ways, but feeding those hit hard meets a basic need and fuels them to manage their situations. Few...

Tennessee backroads are notorious for their beauty and knack for hospitality. Pick any old country road, and you’ll find good times hiding around each and every bend. Locally, if you were to take a...

The city of Tullahoma is growing. Responsible for making sure that growth takes place in the correct space is Mary Samaniego. Samaniego is the planning director for the City of Tullahoma Planning...

In Coffee County’s backyard sits one of the largest and most complex flight simulation facilities in the world – the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC). Within the complex are 58...

You can hear them before you see them. Instruments, performing in perfect unison, send an infectious sound out into the air that alerts all who hear it that the evening’s events are about to begin....

While it may not be the first thing someone thinks of when they think ‘Coffee County,’ the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) has been a part of the community for nearly six decades. In...

With fall sports set to get underway, Tullahoma High School (THS) recently served up a bit of news when it announced that Ashley Abraham would be taking over as the school’s new tennis coach. Prior...

Proverbs 24:26 reads, “An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.” But what kind of kiss are we talking about? Because not every kiss is enjoyable, and not every honest word is easily received....

In a small town, many components culminate to make Friday night football games the memorable experiences they are. The most notable element, of course, is the people. Individuals playing different...

The electrifying atmosphere under Friday night lights is majorly fueled by loyal fans scattered across stadium seats. Young children with painted faces, parents with cushioned seats, and...

Tims Ford State Park (TFSP) has more to offer than what meets the eye. The park has a hidden secret not tied to any of its well-worn hiking trails, though they are an adventure of their own. The...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Broadening The public’s accessibility to local beef and produce is Farmington Local Market. The market opened to the public in April. The store is a part of Farmington Angus, a farm based in...

The Coffee County Children’s Advocacy Center (CCCAC) recently unveiled a new recognition for those who work tirelessly advocating for children in Coffee County. According to the CCCAC director,...

For teacher Sharron Woodard, her approach to the classroom is all about making the most of every single day. The Tullahoma High School (THS) marketing teacher has worked tirelessly over the last two...

The beginning of the year marked a large change in the industrial community of Coffee County, as Cookeville native Stephen Crook was hired as the Coffee County Industrial Board executive director....

Chances are, if you’ve played basketball, softball, ran track, or been on the bowling team for West Middle School (WMS) or Tullahoma High School (THS) in the last 37 years, you’ve come across the...

This town can seem a bit off when the Tullahoma Wildcats aren’t taking the field at Wilkins Stadium on any given Friday night. It’s quiet and feels too still. We’ve all felt it, heard it, and...

The words “back to school” can stir up many different emotions. Some young parents hear “school” and are instantly filled with dread and anxiety. Leaving their wide eyed babes for the first time can...

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...

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,...

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...

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 aaaah. 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...

National Volunteer Week was recently observed April 17-23. To further mark the importance of the week, President Joe Biden declared it National Volunteer Week in a presidential proclamation to...

Humble beginnings in designing a flier for a friend’s business have led to a quarter century of business for Catherine Murray. Known affectionately by the community as “Cat,” she is the sole owner...

For almost a decade, Angela Cardwell has worked tirelessly to make sure the bellies of the Tullahoma City School (TCS) students are full and well-nourished. The director of nutrition for TCS and a...

For Tullahoma residents Lyle and Valerie Russell, rehabilitating raptors has become a labor of love. As longtime falconers, the two have opened the Middle Tennessee Raptor Center (MTRC). According...

The Tullahoma High School (THS) girls and boys wrestling teams recently wrapped up successful seasons that included state appearances by both squads. While winning is important for the two teams...

The annual Women Impacting the Community event was held on May 17, at the Lakewood Golf and Country Club. Hosted by the Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC), the event celebrated the success...

It's not every day you turn 100. This year the building that houses the well- known and beloved South Jackson Civic Center (SJCC) will turn 100 years old. Since its construction in 1886 as a public...

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....

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...

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...

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...

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...

The Tullahoma Fine Arts Center (TFAC) recently gave visitors an opportunity to step back in time and tour the center’s well-curated art collection with its recent exhibit, “The History of Tullahoma:...

Field trips are some of the most memorable parts of school. The experiences of riding on a bus, sitting with friends and seeing new things help shape the world around us. For the Tullahoma City...

Along with an award-winning forestry program, Tullahoma is also home to the largest Willow Oak in the state. The local tree was given the title recently by the University of Tennessee Institute of...

Forget your traditional school sport. Bass fishing has become one of the largest growing sports in schools across the country. Growing locally, is the Tullahoma Youth BASS Club (TYBC). The TYBC is...

Imagine yourself being launched forward while sitting inside a giant tin can.That’s exactly how I felt as we took off down the runway, except this tin can wasn’t full of wild-caught tuna. Instead,...

The smell of hotdogs sizzling over an open grill wafted through the air. Faint sounds of lively music drifted into the streets. Each beat ricocheted off the downtown buildings and then made a...

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....

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...

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...

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,...

Service is something that was instilled from childhood for Tullahoma Alderman Rupa Blackwell. A native of Tullahoma, Blackwell had a front-row seat of serving her community with her father Dr....

Tullahoma was recently named as one of five 2022 Great American Defense Communities across the country during the Defense Communities National Summit, held last month in Washington, D.C.  According...

Three instructors with Tullahoma City Schools (TCS) were recently surprised when they received notification that each of them had been named District Teacher of the Year. Teachers receiving the...

The city of Tullahoma was recently awarded the Tree City USA designation, by The Arbor Day Foundation. Tree City USA is a program that provides communities with a four-step framework to maintain and...

For many athletes, tearing an ACL can mean the ending of an athletic season or even an athletic career. For Tullahoma High School (THS) senior football player Brandon Painter, it was an opportunity...

"Hey, it's right here! Here’s the exit!” a young man calls out to his road trip buddy. The car races off an Interstate 24 exit ramp and is immediately slowed by a sleepy town.  “Is this it?” the...

Few paths to positive personal growth are more noble than resolving to help others through increased acts of generosity and kindness. According to Psychology Today, doing good for others—no matter...

Situated on the corner of Lincoln and Jackson Street rests our community’s greatest asset. The Tullahoma Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC) functions as a liaison between local businesses and the...

Long before the sun rises over the horizon, Mama is up putting dishes in the oven and ironing everyone’s Sunday best. Then, it’s a hurried push out the door and into the car. Pulling into the church...