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Aaron Tippin Alley Dedication in Downtown April 8th

April 7, 2025
By: Dwayne Page

The City of Smithville is paying tribute to a hometown country music icon.

Thirteen months ago, the Smithville Aldermen, upon the recommendation of Mayor Josh Miller, voted to name the alley between Main Street and Market Street in honor of Aaron Tippin.

The formal dedication is scheduled for April 8 at 5:30 p.m. downtown Smithville. The city will close West Main Street at around 3 p.m. Tuesday for the dedication.

About Aaron Tippin:

Aaron Dupree Tippin, born on July 3, 1958, in Pensacola Florida is a celebrated figure in American country music, known for his authentic, blue-collar anthems that resonate deeply with the working class. Raised in Greer, South Carolina, Tippin’s early life was marked by diverse experiences including working as a farm hand, welder, truck driver, and commercial pilot, which later inspired many of his songs.

Tippin’s music career began to take shape in the 1970s when he performed in local honky-tonks. His big break came in 1990 when he signed with RCA Nashville releasing his debut single “You’ve Got to Stand for Something”. This song not only became a top 10 hit but also served as an anthem for U.S. soldiers during the Gulf War, cementing his place in country music history. His signature hits include “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio”, “Kiss This” and post-9/11 patriotic song “Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly”.

Throughout his career, Tippin has released nine studio albums, with six achieving gold status and one platinum, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences through his distinctive baritone voice characterized by a Southern twang. His songwriting talent was also recognized early on, with songs written for artists like The Kingsmen, Mark Collie, and Charley Pride before his own recording career took off.
Beyond music, after moving to DeKalb County in 1994, Aaron Tippin has shown his entrepreneurial spirit by opening Aaron Tippin Firearms stores and by founding his own record label, Nippit Records, in 2006. His personal life includes his marriage to Thea in 1995, with whom he has two children. Tippin’s commitment to his community and love for country music makes him a beloved figure in Smithville, where he has also contributed to local businesses and cultural life.

The dedication of Aaron Tippin Alley in downtown Smithville is a tribute to his contributions to music, his connection to the local community, and his embodiment of the hardworking spirited essence of country music.

Join in celebrating Aaron Tippin and his remarkable journey from local talent to country music icon at the dedication ceremony.




Smithville Elementary Kindergarten Registration

April 7, 2025
By: Dwayne Page

Smithville Elementary will hold kindergarten registration for the 2025-2026 school year on Friday, May 9, 2025 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the County Complex.

Please bring COPIES of the following documents to Registration:

– Certified copy of the child’s birth certificate

– Current, up-to-date, physical examination and immunization record (These must be on a Tennessee Department of Health Certificate of Immunization, which can be obtained from your doctor’s office or the Health Department)

– Proof of residency for DeKalb County (i.e. gas/electric bill)

– Your child will need to attend. He/She will be assessed on this day.

* Children who register to attend kindergarten must turn five years old on or before August 15, 2025.




Lady Tigers Tennis Team Roars Back for a Comeback Victory Over Cannon

April 7, 2025
By: Brian Cadle

The DeKalb Lady Tiger Tennis team rallied from a 3-0 early deficit to pull out a 5-4 victory over Cannon County on Friday at the Smithville Golf Club. The girls started the match with losses at #1 and #2 singles and #1 doubles. Abby Joe Crook and Kayce Hale took the court at #2 doubles and kicked off the momentum change. Crook, Hale, and Jayde Lester all won their doubles and singles matches to account for the 5 match victories to seal the victory. Kaylee Hoersch partnered with Lester for the #3 doubles win. DeKalb Head Coach Brian Cadle praised the Lady Tigers’ comeback effort. “Cannon always brings solid and consistent players each year and provides a huge challenge for us. I am so proud of our girls and their continual improvement match by match.” The girls ended the week with a 5-3 record, winning against York last Monday.

The boys’ team dropped their match to the Lions by a score of 8-1. Lance Duke and Ian Barnes accounted for the sole victory for the Tigers. Cannon’s depth from the 1st to 6th seed was too much for DeKalb. “Our boys play together often in the off-season with Cannon County’s boys here in Smithville for our USTA Junior Team Tennis program. We know each other well and understand how deep Cannon’s team is. They simply got the best of us today.” The Tigers ended the week with a 6-2 record, as they also recorded a victory against York. DeKalb goes on the road for matches at Smyrna and Upperman before taking off Friday and Saturday for DeKalb County High School’s prom this weekend.




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