Serving Hohenwald, Lewis County Tennessee Since 1898

Articles written by Josette Riley


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  • The Twinkle Tour: The Best Christmas Lights Around Town

    Josette Riley|Dec 19, 2024

    Jo Knows where to find the glow. Here is a list of addresses featuring stunning Christmas light displays and decorated homes. Load up the car with family, friends, and even the pups, turn on some festive tunes, and create memories to treasure this holiday season. • 520 Beverly Avenue • 929 Kimmins Street • 1601 Buffalo Road • 1907 Buffalo Road • 104 Bowen Road • 659 W. Main Street • 307 Hinson Street • 815 Smith Street • 556 Forrest Avenue • 307 South Park Street • 411 Honeysuckle Lane • 681 Switzerland Road • 2813 Summertown Hwy. • 2827 Su...

  • Jo knows

    Josette Riley|Dec 12, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, Some homeowners and business owners have noticed a rise in their electric bills this month. Could the addition of the numerous Christmas lights in town be contributing to this increase?” Hey Reader! According to the MLEC Lewis County District Manager Jason Graves, “The Christmas lights are metered and paid for in January by the City of Hohenwald every year and not linked to the higher electric statements some are seeing in December. As Meriwether Lewis shared in October, TVA implemented a 5.25% base rate increase. The full impac...

  • "Hey, Jo, What is the true meaning of Thanksgiving?"

    Josette Riley|Nov 28, 2024

    Well, my friend, let me tell you a little story about a wonderful idea that was born thanks to Kelly Hinson. She and her family wanted to host a Thanksgiving dinner up to 100 plates at their venue, Camryn’s Place, offering food and fellowship for $10 per person - especially for those who might not have a place to go, need some company or just simply don’t wanna cook. But, thanks to the incredible generosity of so many in our town who, of their own accord donated money, all 100 Thanksgiving meals are now fully paid for! No one will need to pay...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Nov 14, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, What is the process of getting the speed changed/lowered on my road?” A good starting point would be to gather your information first, it can be helpful to have support from neighbors and other residents. Community petitions can show that there is a wider need or concern. Next, take your information to our Lewis County Highway Comissioner Kerry Cagle 931-796-2287 or Lewis County Sheriff’s Office 931-796-5096. After your request explaining safety concerns or reasons for the change. The county may conduct a traffic study to asses...

  • Jo Knows: I don't have any family, so when I die, who will bury me?

    Josette Riley|Nov 7, 2024

    "Hey, Jo, I don't have any family, so when I die, who will bury me?" In general, people have the option/responsibility to pre-arrange and pay for their burial or cremation, so their wishes are followed. However, If you are totally alone in this world (which I hope you are not; please know everyone is family at Jo's house, and I will help you) I did some searching. Local funeral home director, Diene Adair of Adair Funeral and Cremation Services explains that "When someone dies without family to...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Oct 3, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, I turned 18 this year and it will be my first time voting. How do I figure out if I am Republican, Democrat, or Independent?” Well, let’s take at look at each party and their views. You might be Republican if you believe in personal responsibility and want the government to have less control over your life. If you think taxes should be lower, businesses should have more freedom, and the government should focus more on national defense and traditional values, then you might lean Republican. You might be Democrat if you believe the g...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Sep 26, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, I have been worried about sending my children to school, with all the threats out there” Have you looked into the school’s safety policy? It might help to know what measures are in place, like security systems, lock down, drills, or communication plan for emergencies. If you’re unsure, reaching out to the school or attending a meeting can give you a clearer idea of how they’re working to keep students safe. Sometimes, understanding the steps being taken, can ease some of the worry. “In loco parentis” means that when kids are at s...

  • Jo Knows!

    Josette Riley|Sep 19, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, Are people allowed to fly drones over private property?” In the U.S., drone laws regarding flying over private property are still evolving, but here are some important issues, you might want to keep in mind: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) controls airspace above 400 feet, and below that, it’s considered navigable airspace, where drones can legally fly. However, drones must comply with FAA regulations, including not flying recklessly or invading privacy. While Flying over private property is generally legal, if the drone...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Sep 12, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, “Are our water systems protected? What are some ways we can prepare for cyber attacks and EMP threats?” As the threats to our critical infrastructure continue to grow, it’s important that we prepare to protect one of our most essential resources; our water supply. Recent warnings have highlighted the risks posed by cyber attacks and electromagnetic pulses (EMPs), both of which could disrupt water systems and threaten public safety. Let’s talk about some things we can do to safeguard our water systems from these potential dangers.....

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Aug 22, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, Will there be shade replacement for cutting all the trees down at the park - Was there a community vote on cutting all the shade trees down?” The park board voted on the cutting down of the trees due to safety hazards and concerns about the tree roots cutting into the nearby shed buildings. City officials are set to meet with an engineering team within the next 2-3 weeks to discuss the development of a new park. The meeting will focus on the project’s phases, including plans for shading to improve visitor comfort. “More detaile...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Aug 15, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, What is that new playground equipment beside Hope Hohenwald? Is it for the public?” It is a small public park funded by a Tennessee state grant called the Healthy Built Environment Grant. The park is accessible for everyone, including those in wheelchairs. It has a platform where kids in wheelchairs can transfer and play. The climbing structures have sensory elements for sound, sight, and touch. A fence built by Kevin King and Bermuda grass will be added, along with a picnic table that’s wheelchair accessible. There will also be tw...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Jul 25, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, Does Lewis County have a leash law for dogs?” Yes. The leash law in Tennessee for Lewis County and City mandates that pet dogs must always be under the control of the owners and are not permitted to roam freely. While dogs can be off-leash on their owner’s property, they must not wander onto someone else’s property, streets, or public areas. An exception to this rule applies when dogs are engaged in legal hunting or herding activities. The intent of the law is to protect the health and safety of the public as well as the well-be...

  • Jo Knows:"Hey, Jo, What are all those people walking through town doing and where are they going?"

    Josette Riley|Jul 18, 2024

    They are participating in the Vol State Road Race, from July 11-21. It is a long-distance race covering 314 miles that tests endurance and is not for the weak. Participants can either have support or go without it. The Race starts in Dorena Landing, Missouri and ends in Castle Rock, Georgia. If interested in more information go to www.vacationwithoutacar.com Until next time...stay curious and keep smiling. - Jo...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Jul 11, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, Could you explain the role and importance of the school board in our town’s education system?” Lewis County School Board plays a crucial role in overseeing the educational policies such as curriculum standards, discipline policies, and educational goals. They are responsible for managing the budget for salaries, facilities maintenance, and educational programs. They hire and evaluate the superintendent, who is responsible for implementing policies and managing day to day operations of our schools. The Lewis County School Board serve...

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Jul 4, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, When I was a kid, I used to jump in the water from the bridge on Indian Creek. Now, there’s no water. How does that happen?” If not maintained, there can be a vegetation overgrowth, plants and trees surrounding the swimming hole can absorb significant amounts of water, contributing to its drying up....

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Jun 27, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, Are stamp prices soon increasing?” Unfortunately, Yes they are. The U. S. Postal Service filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission of mailing services price changes to take effect July 14, 2024. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 68 cents to 73 cents....

  • Jo Knows

    Josette Riley|Jun 20, 2024

    “Hey, Jo, How do I know what voting district in Lewis County I live in?” Here are some resources to help you easily find the voting district you live in. 1.Lewis County Election Commission Office: 35 Smith Ave. 931-796-0510 or visit lewiscountyelection.org 2.Lewis County Clerk’s Office: 110 N. Park Street, Room 105- 931-796-2200. They can provide information about your voting district based on your address. 3.Voter Registration Card: Your card typically includes your voting district information. 4.Visit GoVoteTN.com and use their voter looku...

  • Jo Knows-"Hey Jo, What is going on with roads on Highway 412?"

    Josette Riley|Jun 13, 2024

    Highway 412 is currently undergoing maintenance deemed necessary by the Tennessee Department of Transportation. The construction will run from the triangle on West Main Street in front of Dr. Hensley’s office down East Main to Kilpatrick Drive, where crews are milling the top layer of the road surface. This process is part of routine maintenance to address wear and tear, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience. You may have noticed the pot holes, “uneven lanes” and “grooved pavement” signs placed by TDOT. The work is expected...