Early Voting Total Stands at 622 through Thursday, February 22

February 23, 2024
By: Dwayne Page

The DeKalb County Election Commission reports that a total of 91 people voted Thursday, February 22 in the March 5 primaries. Of that number, 85 cast ballots in the Republican Primary and 6 in the Democratic Primary.

That brings the seven-day early voting total to 622 of which, 574 have voted in the Republican Primary and 48 in the Democratic Primary.

The early voting period is underway through Tuesday, February 27 at the courthouse in Smithville. The Absentee ballot request deadline is Tuesday, February 27.

The remaining dates for early voting in Smithville are as follows:

Friday, February 23: (9 a.m. until 1 p.m.)

Saturday, February 24: (9 a.m. until 12 noon)

Monday, February 26: (1 p.m. until 5 p.m.)

Tuesday, February 27: (9 a.m. until 1 p.m.)

February 20, 2024
By: Dwayne Page

Smithville Elementary would like to recognize its Teacher of the Month for February, Mrs. Janet Trapp. SES recognizes one teacher each month for his/her outstanding performance in teaching and their contribution to the students at our school. The teacher of the month is selected by the administration at Smithville Elementary.

In making the announcement, school administrators issued the following statement.

“Mrs. Trapp is always kind, she loves her students, and does her best to meet all of their needs.”

“Ms. Janet has been the backbone of SES for many years and is such a blessing! Always with a smile on her face, Ms. Janet is ready and eager to help when needed. She loves all the students at SES and strives to help each one achieve their full potential. She is a phenomenal phonics and reading teacher. Ms. Janet sets the bar high for future teachers as she exemplifies what an exceptional teacher should be for every student in public education. Thank you for all you do Ms. Janet!”

“She is always willing to help anyone in need. She’s always so kind to the kids. She is willing to do anything the kids need!”

“Janet is always so kind and calm to her students and colleagues. She is soft spoken and never gets rattled. She is a great asset to our school and we will miss the wise owl next year.”

“Janet is a wonderful teacher! She has taught a variety of grade levels and always challenges and encourages her students to do their best. She is patient with her students, but firm if she needs to be. She encourages learning with interesting ideas and activities.”

“Janet is always willing to help her fellow teachers and is such an asset to Smithville Elementary School. She is a joy to work with!”

“Mrs.Trapp is a beautiful soul! She is a wonderful, seasoned teacher. She loves and cares for each and every one of her students. We are so blessed to have her here at SES !”

“Janet is almost always calm and collected and wearing a smile. She is one of the first to offer up help when needed.”

“Mrs. Trapp adores her students and makes each of them feel special and loved. She also encourages her coworkers and offers experienced advice without judgement.”

“Ms. Janet Trapp is a wonderful teacher. She is one of the kindest people you will ever meet. She cares deeply for her students.”

“Mrs. Trapp is always going above and beyond for her students. She is willing to share resources and adapt and adjust when something is not working to do best for her students!”

“Mrs. Trapp is the best! She is always so positive and patient with her students. She is the wise owl and we love her!”

“I couldn’t have asked for a better fit for my own personal child! He loves her dearly and she is so patient, as she takes the time to get to know his needs. She will be missed after her retirement! What a wonderful asset she has been to SES-for students who are both typically developing and those that are part of the special education program!”

Congratulations Mrs. Trapp and thank you for your dedication to Smithville Elementary! You are very much appreciated for your kindness, wisdom, and willingness to help the students and staff at SES in any way that you can”.

February 20, 2024
By: Dwayne Page

Quick action by members of the DeKalb County Fire Department Monday kept a brush fire from spreading to structures nearby.

In a brief statement, Chief Donny Green said that “the DeKalb County Fire Department was dispatched to the Midway Community for a brush fire on Page Drive Monday at 1:01 p.m. The brush fire was spreading quickly and threatening structures close by. After a quick response, the brush fire was brought under control and no structures were harmed.

The Main Station’s Brush 2, Midway Engine 63, Cookeville Highway Engine 61, Four Seasons Engine 57 and DeKalb County Sheriff Officer responded to the call.