Fentress Audit Shows Two Findings; Around ARP, Schools
The state’s annual audit of Fentress County revealed two financial deficiencies for the year ending June 30, 2025. The annual financial report summary detailed issues within the Office of the Finance Director regarding the management of the Special Purpose American Rescue Plan Fund and general ledger payroll liabilities. The budget and subsequent amendments approved by […]
Johnson Not Running; Said Time To Step Away After 54
After serving two terms, Fentress County Executive Jimmy Johnson said he is not running for re-election in the August election. Johnson said he has been helping Fentress County in various ways since he was 16 years old. Johnson said now that he is 70 years old, he believes it’s time to step away. “When you […]
International World Pig Championship Returns To Fentress
Card players from across the United States and beyond will gather at the York Country Store in Fentress County next Saturday for the 24th Annual World Pig Championship. Organizer Jim Buck formalized the rules for the regional card game in 2001, transforming a local pastime into a competitive event. The tournament now draws more than […]
Fentress Awarded Ag Grant To Build York Slaughterhouse
A slaughterhouse coming to York Institute thanks to a state grant awarded to Fentress County. York Institute Director of Schools John Bush said the $3.4 million project will be a USDA-certified facility and will play a major role in the school’s agriculture program. Bush said the facility will allow students to learn how to handle […]
Ten Fentress Youth Compete For $1,000 Prize Saturday
Ten Fentress County students will pitch their business ideas to local judges this weekend for a chance to win a $1,000 cash prize. Biz Foundry Youth Coordinator Jessica Hinton has taught over 150 students in the area how to start their own businesses. The upcoming event features participants ranging from 11 to 16 years old […]
Big South Writers Workshop Empowers Aspiring Authors
A Jamestown-area author has organized a new support group to help writers of all experience levels navigate the complexities of storytelling and publishing. Big South Fork Writers Group Organizer Leslie Helm said the initiative began after a previous group in Crossville became too large to address specific needs. She noted that the new gathering aims […]
Fentress County Set To Appoint New Sheriff In March
Fentress County will look to appoint a new sheriff in March. The County Commission voted to set the deadline for qualifications for March 2 and the appointment date on March 23. The county has 120 days from the day the resignation letter from former Sheriff Michael Reagon was received. County Attorney Leslie Ledbetter said the […]
Clarkrange Hosting Annual Popsicle Bridge Contest
Purchase a kit this Friday at “The Barn” in Clarkrange to participate in the Refuge Community Church’s annual popsicle-stick bridge contest. Competition Coordinator Jessica Hinton said participants will have two months to use kits that contain 200 popsicle sticks and wood glue to see who can build the strongest bridge possible. Hinton said bridges are […]
County Commission To Begin Process To Replace Sheriff
The Fentress County Commission will be responsible for appointing a new sheriff after former Sheriff Michael Reagon resigned last month. Fentress County Executive Jimmy Johnson said the commission has 120 days from the date the county received the resignation letter. The county received Reagon’s resignation letter on December 19. Johnson said the county is receiving […]
Allardt Awarded Grant To Purchase New Pumper Truck
Allardt has been awarded an estimated $390,000 Community Development Block Grant to purchase a new pumper truck for the volunteer fire department. Allardt Fire Chief Larry Cooper said the new truck is a 2026 Kenworth model. Cooper said the grant will allow them to replace a 24-year-old truck. “The City of Allardt is just a […]
