Local Option Sales Tax Collections Remain Strong

March 24, 2023
By: Dwayne Page

DeKalb County’s share of local option sales tax collections for February 2023 outperformed the same month in 2022 by over $28,000 according to the Tennessee Department of Revenue. For the county and the four cities therein, combined collections were up by almost $49,000.

DeKalb County brought in $138,886 in February 2023 compared to $110,300 for February 2022.

Three of the four cities within DeKalb County also hauled in more local option sales tax revenue. Alexandria was the exception

The comparisons between the two months for each municipality are as follows:

Smithville: $328,904 (February 2023), $309,293 (February 2022)

Alexandria: $28,383 (February 2023), $31,189 (February 2022)

Dowelltown: $2,890 (February 2023), $2, 626 (February 2022)

Liberty: $12,749 (February 2023), $9,430 (February 2022)

NET COLLECTIONS (LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX): $511,814 (February 2023), $462,840 (February 2022)

February sales tax collections reflect previous month activity.

March 24, 2023
By:

The DCHS Jazz Ensemble, a 10-piece local jazz band, delivered a stellar performance that was both entertaining and inspiring Thursday night at the Harvester Event Center downtown Smithville. Members of the ensemble were Cadence Orcutt – Alto Sax, B.J. Mosely – Tenor Sax, Ayden Jones – Trumpet, Jayden Wildes – Trumpet, Alexis Stanley – Trumpet, Nate Hall – Trombone, Owen Warren – Trombone, Karson Smallwood – Guitar/Drums, Gavin Conger – Drums, Don Whitt, Band Director – Keyboard

The DCHS Jazz Ensemble powered through songs that covered many decades of music including: The Peter Gunn Theme, Burritos To Go, Fever, Feeling Good, Old Time Rock N Roll, and a rousing Glenn Miller number that gave way to a standing ovation. Each student was introduced and accolades were deservedly given for this a tight knit bunch: they all showed poise, class, talent, and showmanship, which is something that not everyone has. Energetic solos were accentuated by the soulful softness and that playful vibe that only true jazz can bring. Way ahead of the game on the road to something that can be enjoyed their entire lives. You can still make a donation because this band needs your love and financial support (Mr. Whitt mentioned they are trying to acquire a tuba). The main benefit is Saturday, March 25 with the 1920’s Spring Formal starting at 4 p.m. featuring the Beasley Court Big Band. Your ticket to this special event at the Harvester includes a donation directly to the DCHS Band.

March 24, 2023
By: Dwayne Page

The DeKalb County Election Commission hosted a worker reception Thursday at the County Complex.

Dozens of people across the county who have helped work elections for years and especially last year attended the get together for fellowship and light refreshments.

The new voting machine, which is scheduled to be used in March 2024, was also available for viewing and demonstration.

“We wanted to show the workers they are appreciated and they are the ones who help make the electoral process in DeKalb County a success,” said Chairman Walteen Parker.

“These election workers follow the law verbatim. They don’t deviate. They treat everyone equally. We can trust their integrity. It has helped to maintain the integrity of the elections in DeKalb County,” said Chairman Parker.

“We wanted to recognize these workers because without them there is no election process. We have 12 precincts and it takes a lot of workers and we appreciate every one of them,” said Administrator of Elections Dennis Stanley.

Sue Corley, a current election worker who began in the 1970’s, was recognized for her tenure of service.

Two long time election workers, now deceased, were also remembered, Deana Mai Green and Brenda Hooper.