Bell Buckle to host barbecue cookoff (08/20/08) Bell Buckle will host its inaugural "Best of the Butts" barbecue cookoff on Saturday, Aug. 30, on the stage behind the stores in downtown Bell Buckle. The first-time event will feature butts and ribs from a field of 24 entries. All proceeds will benefit the Bell Buckle Park...

Bell Buckle renters face higher utility costs (08/15/08) New renters in Bell Buckle can look forward to higher utility costs when it comes to signing up than their home-owning neighbors, once the board of mayor and aldermen pass the new Water System Rules and Regulations. "We want to be very clear to the customers what the rules and regulations are," said Mayor Dennis Webb at the work session prior to the Tuesday night meeting. ...

Bell Buckle leaders look at urban growth concerns (08/08/08) Just as Shelbyville has done recently, the town of Bell Buckle is considering changing its urban growth boundary -- but not in the way most people would expect. Where Shelbyville is planning for expansion, Bell Buckle is headed the other direction. "Would you consider pulling the UGB in -- making it more manageable and making it more meaningful?" asked Mayor Dennis Webb at a special called meeting Tuesday afternoon. ...

Unofficial Bedford County primary results (08/07/08) These results do not include paper ballots. Primary election results, in PDF format General election results, in PDF format...

Bell Buckle BZA considers bed & breakfast (07/13/08) The newly re-formed board of zoning appeals in Bell Buckle already has issues waiting for its first meeting. The new BZA was approved by the board of mayor and alderman at the Tuesday night town meeting, with Mayor Dennis Webb, Planning Commission Chairman Rodney Simmons and David Robinson on the board...

Bell Buckle targets speeders (07/10/08) Bell Buckle's narrow roads with sharp curves are not conducive to speeding -- but that hasn't stopped many motorists. Now, with the presence of part-time police officer Chris Spradling, and some changes in his cruising schedule, the town leaders hope that will change...

Bell Buckle says farewell to Shakespeare crew (07/09/08) There was more mirth than "sweet sorrow" in the parting held Monday night in Bell Buckle, as residents of the town said good-bye and thank you to the cast and crew of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.' After months of preparation, the Tennessee Shakespeare Festival production was staged the last weekend in June and the first weekend in July on the grounds of Webb School and featured Lane Davies as both director and in the role of Oberon...

Teacher makes Shakespeare come alive (06/26/08) Ruth Cordell just radiates passion. Whether it's for teaching, acting, Shakespeare, or even her prize-winning American saddlebred horses, the passion is an almost tangible aura around her. She is transferring that passion to her students this summer. ...

Local man produces webcast for boomers (06/25/08) Don't expect these grandparents to sit and whittle on a front porch. The baby boomer generation is rapidly leaving the workforce and joining the ranks of the retired, but television and webcast producer Sam Dalton doesn't see them creeping off to the Golden Acres retirement villages for shuffleboard tournaments just yet...

Davies sets Shakespeare play in South (06/23/08) The director of the upcoming Tennessee Shakespeare Festival's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" stands beneath the massive tent on the Webb School grounds, answering questions, giving instructions, and, yes, directing the flow of work going on around him. Clad in khakis and black T-shirt, actor Lane Davies is in his element...

RC-Moon Pie crowds swarm Bell Buckle (06/22/08) The 14th Annual RC-Moon Pie Festival drew a healthy crowd to Bell Buckle on Saturday for sugar-laden mirth. Jenny Hunt of Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce said she was delighted at the turnout and noted that the festival itself was a free attraction in a time when people are trying to save money. ...

Fest's a family affair for Uncle Tom's Band (06/20/08) Toby Fuss lives in Wartrace and has for some time, but Saturday will be his first visit to the RC-Moon Pie festival in neighboring Bell Buckle. The New York native, his father, Tom Fuss, and James Bolin will be taking the stage throughout the day as Uncle Tom's Band...

Wacky waders rehearse Bell Buckle fun (06/17/08) "Something's rotten in Denmark, But it's worse in Bell Buck-ellll..." So go the lyrics to one of the songs in Bell Buckle's latest creation. There's something rotten in Bell Buckle, all right, but it's not the 13th annual Synchronized Wading planned for the upcoming RC-Moon Pie Festival. ...

Sewer taps allowed again in Bell Buckle (06/11/08) The day Bell Buckle has been awaiting for more than three years has finally arrived -- the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has lifted a sewer moratorium on the small town. As a result, Bell Buckle will be allowed to install sewer taps now that problems with its waste water system have been corrected...

Civil War battle to be revisited (06/11/08) The smell of black powder and thunder from the past will be heard in the hills between Bell Buckle and Wartrace this weekend as 300 Civil War reenactors gather for the 145th anniversary of the Battle of Liberty Gap. On Saturday and Sunday, visitors can step back in time and observe demonstrations of cavalry, artillery and infantry units of the period, as well as games for the kids...

'Big heart' boosts Bell Buckle park (05/28/08) Monday evening's rainfall provided an eye-catching scene of rich greenery Tuesday morning at Bell Buckle Park, making it easy to see why the park earned the 2008 Governor's Environmental Stewardship Award for Parks and Recreation. Bell Buckle Park is a community treasure and the Governor's award is more than gratifying to those who put countless hours of blood, sweat and tears into the park that now serves as a tangible reminder to what Bell Buckle is all about...

Travel Channel gets a taste of Bell Buckle (05/19/08) The Travel Channel's "Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo" will feature Bell Buckle and the Tennessee's RC-Moon Pie Festival on an episode airing 10 p.m. Wednesday. While filming the festival in 2007, the crew highlighted both the festival, the small town charm of Bell Buckle, and the southern tradition of an RC and a Moon Pie...

Bikers blast into Bell Buckle (05/15/08) Be sure to keep a sharp eye on Bedford County rural roadways on Saturday as hundreds of bikes will be taking to the open highway, heading for Bell Buckle. This weekend is when riders will gather from across the state for the fourth annual Bell Buckle Motorcycle Days, which promises to be the biggest event yet...

Bell Buckle board raises tap fees (05/14/08) Water and sewer tap fees will be going up in Bell Buckle this summer. That town's board voted Tuesday night to raise the rates inside the city from $1,000 to $2,000 and from $1,500 to $2,500 for taps outside the town's limits. Mayor Dennis Webb said the costs would be incurred by new customers, not existing ones, and will assist with higher costs for running the water system. The new rates will be implemented July 1...

Beautifying Bell Buckle (05/05/08) The labors of a young man from Bell Buckle will pay off for years to come for the town's park and city streets. The Eagle Scout project of Matthew Bettis, the 17-year-old son of Gregg and Karla Bettis, involved the planting of 100 small trees and 400 saplings in a nursery area in Bell Buckle park...

TUB connection could help pressure in Wartrace, Bell Buckle (04/29/08) A frequent complaint heard from water customers living in the Wartrace and Bell Buckle area is the lack of pressure in the system. But if Wartrace decides to hook up to the city of Tullahoma's water system, that problem could become a thing of the past...

Motorcycles: Part of May in Bell Buckle (04/19/08) May 17 will be the day that the low rumble of thunder will once again enter Bell Buckle. But it won't be due to the weather. Instead, riders will gather from across Tennessee for the fourth annual Bell Buckle Motorcycle Days, which promises to be the biggest event yet...

Shakespeare Festival names artistic director (04/16/08) The new Tennessee Shakespeare Festival, taking place in Bell Buckle this summer, has named a stage and television actor as artistic director. The board of directors has named actor-director Lane Davies to the post. Davies is best known for his TV roles, appearing recently on "Scrubs" as the character Dr. Simon Reid...

Bell Buckle aiming at cleaner property (04/10/08) Bell Buckle passed the first reading of an ordinance establishing property maintenance regulations that will give the town a procedure to deal with residents that have overgrown or dirty lots. Mayor Dennis Webb said that there was already a measure dealing with the topic on the books, but this would give the town some recourse in dealing with the matter...

Wartrace still under boil order (04/09/08) Wartrace water customers will have to boil their water for another day. A drinking water warning was issued for the system last week due to high turbidity levels and the potential of contaminated water. Mayor Don Gallagher said Wednesday that workers have finished flushing all the water lines in the system and that bacteria samples have been sent to Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation for testing. ...

UPDATED: Wartrace issues water warning (04/02/08) A drinking water warning has been issued for the Wartrace Water System due to high turbidity levels and potentially contaminated water. The Town of Wartrace issued the warning Tuesday morning and is telling customers to boil their water before using it until further notice....

Bell Buckle hires judge, attorney (03/29/08) Bell Buckle's board of Mayor and Aldermen met for a brief special called meeting Friday to hire a municipal judge and a new city attorney. The board voted to hire Bill Haywood, who serves as Chapel Hill's municipal judge and city attorney for Lewisburg, as judge for the small village at a cost of $300 per session...

Daffodil Day goes on, despite the rain (03/17/08) Despite wet weather, Bell Buckle enjoyed a respectable crowd for its annual Daffodil Day Festival. Ribbons were awarded during the Daffodil Flower Show to all who entered. Daffodil Day included the annual Arbor Day ceremony at which Bell Buckle was awarded its eighth-year Tree City USA designation; it is the smallest city in the state to earn that honor. Shelbyville-based Duck River Electric Membership Corp. won the Tree Line USA award for the fourth year...

Bell Buckle awaits sewer nod (03/14/08) Bell Buckle is still waiting to hear from Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) about lifting a Director's Order against the town that prevents it from installing any new sewer taps. The topic came up after the town board turned down a request from Alderman Frank Reagor, who was not present for the meeting, for a sewer tap at 104 Hinkle Hill Road...

Bell Buckle sues Ritch over tap fees (03/13/08) The Town of Bell Buckle has filed suit against an area developer over unpaid sewer tap fees. Roger Ritch, doing business as American Value Homes, was served on March 7 with a civil suit demanding a total of $14,000. The town's board voted to move forward with collecting the unpaid sewer tap fees in November that had resulted from an accounting error...

Bell Buckle hires police officer (03/12/08) Bell Buckle moved closer Tuesday to having law enforcement on their streets with the hiring of a part time police officer. The board of Mayor and Aldermen voted to hire LaVergne police officer Chris Spradling on a part time basis. The officer will work only 10 hours a week, with his main duty to watch for speeders...

Bell Buckle renews Tree City designation (03/11/08) For the eighth year, Bell Buckle has been named a Tree City USA community, honoring its commitment to community forestry. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the United State Department of Agriculture Forest Service...

Faxon wins national award (02/25/08) Bell Buckle-based sculptor Russ Faxon's bronze casting "The Signing" was among 15 award-winning statues selected last week by judges of the 75th Annual Exhibition of the National Sculpture Society in New York City. In an e-mail to friends on Thursday, Faxon reacted with his typical reserved and understated comment: "EeHaaaa! How about that?"...

Bell Buckle seeks lift of state sewer sanction (02/15/08) Bell Buckle will be contacting the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) soon about lifting a director's order against the town in regards to their sewer system. Water manager Ronnie Lokey reported to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen Tuesday that work was basically completed on the town's new equalization basin, which was required for the city to comply with a Director's Order issued by TDEC...

Bell Buckle repeals 'unenforcable' brown bag ordinance (02/14/08) Bell Buckle's ordinance over "brown bagging" was repealed Tuesday night by that town's board following a public hearing on the topic. "Brown bagging" is the practice of a customer bringing his own bottle of wine or liquor to a restaurant to consume with a meal....

Plans underway for Daffodil Day (02/14/08) If you are one of those who are getting tired of the cold weather, here's a bit of news to brighten your day: Daffodil Day in Bell Buckle is coming! The annual event is scehduled for March 15 and is sponsored by Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce and the Bell Buckle Tree Board...

Bell Buckle to employ part-time officer (02/13/08) Despite opposition from some citizens, Bell Buckle's Board of Mayor and Aldermen unanimously voted Tuesday to hire a temporary, part-time police officer to enforce traffic and codes violations. The officer, who will be picked from Bedford County Sheriff's Department personnel, will work only 10 hours a week with his main duty to watch for speeders...

City, county could sell unused house (01/16/08) A local real estate agent has expressed interest in an unused building on North Main Street jointly owned by the city and county, according to discussion Tuesday night by Bedford County Board of Commissioners' courthouse and property committee. The house, which at one time was used as a secure and private site for interviewing victims of alleged child sexual abuse, is currently unused, and Wayne Neese of Wayne Neese Realty & Auction Co. ...

County growth plans presented to public (01/15/08) "Is this the right direction?" That was the question posed to interested citizens during the first of three public meetings dealing with Bedford County's revised master growth plan. With large graphics of the different proposed plans displayed, Charles Goforth of the design firm Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon (BWSC) explained to the crowd of about 50 where the county should plan for its growth over the next 20 years...

Hot chili in cool Bell Buckle (01/15/08) "Next to music," said band leader and trumpet player Harry James, "there is nothing that lifts the spirits and strengthens the soul more than a good bowl of chili." Bell Buckle Fire Department is preparing for its second annual Chili Cook-off, which will be held Jan. 26 at the James Elkins Fire Hall in Bell Buckle...

Bell Buckle to be featured on RFD-TV show (01/14/08) For Bell Buckle, one of the county's biggest tourist attractions, getting nationwide exposure is a must. That is what is due to happen over the next few months as the town is to be featured on one of the country's fastest-growing television networks...

Growth plan hearings this week (01/12/08) If the future growth of the county is a topic that concerns you, you will have three chances to sound off with your opinion this week. A series of public hearings will be held by the Bedford County's Joint Economic Development Board (JEDB) on the subject of the comprehensive master plan that is to be used as an update to Bedford County's growth plan...

Bell Buckle may allow brown-bagging (01/09/08) Bell Buckle's board passed the first reading of an ordinance that would make "brown bagging" legal again. "Brown bagging" is the practice of a customer bringing his own bottle of wine or liquor to a restaurant to consume with a meal. The repeal was introduced by Alderman Mark Felices, who stated that he did not want to "change the character of the town," but that it was a bad law because there was no way to enforce it...

The Bard in Bell Buckle (01/08/08) "The play's the thing," said Hamlet, and Bell Buckle will be the choice location for fans of classic literature this summer as the first Tennessee Shakespeare Festival is slated to be held, with help from a daytime television star. The event is scheduled for June 27-29 and July 4-6 on the campus of The Webb School...

Bell Buckle absorbs water rate hike (12/13/07) Bell Buckle hopes to keep water bills low for its customers despite a dramatic rate hike from Bedford County Utility District (BCUD). The town's Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted Tuesday to accept the latest contract from BCUD with the new rate of $4 per 1,000 gallons, an increase of 51 percent over the current rate of $2.65 per 1,000 gallons...

'Christmas in Bell Buckle' planned (11/26/07) With handmade holiday bows and live greenery adorning the downtown area, Bell Buckle is getting ready for its annual Old Fashioned Christmas, set for this Saturday. The fun kicks off at noon with several events, such as the Old Tyme Carolers strolling the sidewalks giving their renditions of Christmas classics. Another event is the opening of the new Bell Buckle Banquet Hall operated by Greg Heinike, owner of Bell Buckle Café. The Hall is located behind The Cat's Meow...

Gordon honors volunteer firefighters (11/21/07) Invoking his mother's childhood memories, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon honored the Bell Buckle Volunteer Fire Department on Tuesday for its important work. Gordon presented a plaque to the fire hall which contained a statement he read into the Congressional Record on Nov. 15 honoring the department. He told Bell Buckle officials Tuesday that his family has strong memories of what can happen when a fire gets out of control...

Bell Buckle water users asked to conserve (11/14/07) Water was once again the main topic for Bell Buckle's Board of Mayor and Aldermen, with officials looking at a drought management plan and asking their water customers to cut back on usage. The board voted to ask residents to voluntarily reduce normal consumption of essential and domestic use by 10 percent and non-essential use by 15 percent, which are the Stage 1 restrictions being implemented in Bedford and surrounding counties...

Haunted evening ahead in Bell Buckle (10/25/07) Thirteen is an appropriately-spooky number for a Halloween-themed event, and the town of Bell Buckle hopes for spooky fun Saturday as it hosts its 13th annual “Old Fashioned Haunted Evening.� The event, presented by Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce, kicks off at 6 p.m. and continues until 9. Admission is $4, which includes a hot dog, chips, Moon Pie and drink...

French students visit Bell Buckle (10/20/07) Approximately 30 French exchange students spent their last day in Bell Buckle Friday, touring the shops and getting a keepsake from the village as they headed back home this weekend. For the past two weeks, the students from the city of Strasbourg have been participating the exchange with Webb School, with many of the kids staying with local students and their families during their time here...

Webb, town, county officials try to slow traffic (10/11/07) In August 1981, 13-year-old Lisa Bennett was crossing Highway 82 in front of Webb School in Bell Buckle to visit her mother, who works at the boarding school. Lisa never made it. She was struck by a car and died of her injuries the next day. The school, the Town of Bell Buckle and county law enforcement want to prevent a reoccurrence...

Work starts soon on Bell Buckle sewer upgrade (10/10/07) Work is progressing on an equalization basin for Bell Buckle's wastewater system, the town's board was told Tuesday. According to environmental engineer Jim Patterson, work on the basin should begin later this week or early next week. The basin is required to comply with a Director's Order issued by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) concerning problems with the sewer system in 2005...

Webb Art & Craft festival nears (10/08/07) If arts and crafts are your passion, then the streets of the Webb School and Bell Buckle should be your destination in two weeks. The 31st Annual Webb School Arts and Crafts Festival takes place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20 and from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 21...

B.R.A.T. cyclists pass through Bell Buckle (09/18/07) Be sure to keep a sharp eye out this week when you are on Tennessee's backroads, because you will likely encounter groups of brightly dressed bicyclists during your travels. A group of nearly 300 cyclists are taking the week off to participate in B.R.A.T., which stands for Bike Ride Across Tennessee. Bell Buckle was an early morning stop for the bikers Monday, who hale from all over the state and the nation...

Carla Webb injured in gun accident (09/18/07) The Bell Buckle mayor's wife, Carla Webb, is recovering at home this morning following an accidental shooting in her home Monday night. According to Mayor Dennis Webb, his wife was showing a pistol that was for sale to friends who were visiting the Webb home when she dropped it...

Bell Buckle Art & Music Festival (09/14/07) A new Bell Buckle festival is hitting town today and runs through Sunday as the Bell Buckle Art and Music Gallery festival is introduced to the community. As a part of the event there will be juried competitions in the fields of wood turning, ceramics, and glass where winning artists will earn prizes totaling $3,000 for the best in each class. The event is sponsored by the Bell Buckle Art Gallery and Bell Buckle Café...

Bell Buckle sidewalks to be improved (09/13/07) Sidewalk improvements are on the way for Bell Buckle as that town's Board of Mayor and Aldermen announced a $300,000 grant during a brief meeting Tuesday. The funding is for Phase III of Bell Buckle's comprehensive sidewalk plan provided by the 2007 Tennessee Department of Transportation's [TDOT] Enhancement Program, according to alderwoman Jenny Hunt...

Bell Buckle to host art, music festival (08/28/07) Bell Buckle is known all over the South for their festivals and artists and in just a little over two weeks, they will be hosting a brand new event. The first Bell Buckle Art and Music Gallery festival is set for Friday through Sunday, Sept. 14-16, and will showcase juried artists of North American in the fields of wood turning, ceramics, and glass...

Ezell leads Bell Buckle church (08/18/07) The Rev. Beth Ezell has been a licensed Methodist minister for the last 10 years, and a year ago she became the pastor of Bell Buckle United Methodist Church. This is her first full-time charge. "I was very involved in the church prior to going into the ministry," Ezell said, "but I always thought I was called to be there to help the pastor. I like being in the background and not up front, but God called me, and here I am."...

Bell Buckle will soon hold court (08/15/07) Bell Buckle's Board of Mayor and Aldermen began taking the first steps Tuesday in establishing a municipal court for the small community. Workshops with the Municipal Technical Advisory Service [MTAS] are to be scheduled so that board members will know the proper handling in setting up the court...

Bell Buckle borrows $1M for sewer repairs (08/01/07) Bell Buckle Board of Aldermen and Mayor approved borrowing $1 million to pay for state mandated improvements to their ailing sewer system on Tuesday during a special called meeting. Also approved were bids for the main part of the project: a 1 million-gallon equalization tank for the town's sewer plant...

Elkins celebrates 50 years at Webb (07/28/07) In March 1957, Dorothy Elkins was asked to help out for a couple weeks in the office at Webb School. Fifty years later she is still there, that two weeks turning into half a century of service. "My good friend Sybil Steiner called me from Webb and asked me if I could come in and help out with some filing and typing for a couple of weeks," Elkins said. ...

Still a firefighter at heart (07/23/07) The building housing the Bell Buckle Volunteer Fire Department bears his name, the James W. Elkins Firehall, and even though he's retired, he's still a fireman at heart. Elkins was born and raised in Bell Buckle and has lived in the same house for all but the first six months of his 82 years. His home sits catty-cornered across the street from the fire hall...

Bell Buckle looks at sewer options (07/19/07) Water and sewer issues continued to be the main topic of discussion for Bell Buckle Tuesday as they approved a telemetry system for the water system and looked over funding options for their ailing sewer system. The Board of Mayor and Alderman gave their approval to purchasing the telemetry system, which will be used check the levels of all the system's tanks and pumps remotely...

Wartrace, Webb awarded for arts support (06/30/07) The Town of Wartrace will be receiving a $2,900 grant for their support of the arts, along with a $1,380 grant for Webb School. The announcement was made Wednesday by Rep. Curt Cobb and Sen. Jim Tracy along with the Tennessee Arts Commission. "This state is indeed fortunate to have elected leaders who support the work of the Tennessee Arts Commission in building better communities through the arts," said Ed Gerace, incoming Chairman of the Tennessee Arts Commission. ...

Telemetry system may help stem Bell Buckle water losses (06/13/07) With an average of a 30 percent water loss this year, Bell Buckle is looking at purchasing a telemetry system to monitor the status of that town's water system. Alderman Mark Felices has been researching the idea so that water mangers would be able to check the levels of all the system's tanks and pumps remotely, saving workers the time of having to drive to each location to check the levels manually...

Travel Channel to visit RC / Moon Pie fest (06/09/07) If you're going to be in Bell Buckle next weekend for the 13th Annual RC-Moon Pie Festival, be sure to smile because you might end up on television. A crew from The Travel Channel's "Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo" are to visit the tiny village next Saturday. The crew will be filming Linda Simmons of the Bell Buckle Country Store making homemade Moon Pies in the kitchen of Dennis and Carla Webb, Mayor and First Lady of Bell Buckle...

Almost Moon Pie time (06/05/07) The 16th of this month may be known to most as the third Saturday in June, but to the folks of Bell Buckle, it only means one thing: RC Cola and Moon Pie time! This is the 13th year the two Southern traditions have been celebrated and with more than 15,000 people attending every year, it is one of the biggest summer events in the county...

Motorcycle Days doubles from last year (05/21/07) More than 2,000 motorcyclists descended upon Bell Buckle for their third annual Motorcycle Days on Saturday. This year's event, which is the Official Tennessee State Bike Show Championship, was about twice as big as last year according to organizers, so much so that parking became an issue early on Saturday...

Bikers rumble into Bell Buckle (05/15/07) This weekend will bring the thunder of motorcycle engines to the hills of Bedford County as Bell Buckle Motorcycle Days kicks off Saturday, and continues on Sunday. The event has been designated as the Official Tennessee State Bike Show Championship, and the first ones from the run are expected to depart at 10 a.m. from Murfreesboro's Bumpus Harley Davidson and Sloan's Motorcycle Supercenter...

Bell Buckle bothered by truck traffic (05/09/07) Traffic safety was a major topic of discussion for Bell Buckle's Board of Mayor and Aldermen Tuesday as they look at ways to keep large trucks from passing through town. Citizens have been complaining about the increase in 18-wheelers traveling on Highway 82 [Webb Road] which runs through Webb School and a residential area. In February, a petition signed by around 120 Bell Buckle citizens was sent to State Sen. Jim Tracy on the matter...

Bell Buckle garden honors Maggi Vaughn (05/02/07) A small crowd gathered at the Bell Buckle Park last Sunday to honor one of the town's and the state's most unique individuals, Tennessee Poet Laureate Margaret Britton "Maggi" Vaughn.  The Leadership Bedford Beginnings Class of 2007 was there to dedicate their "Poet's Garden" to Vaughn. This group of eight high school students planted the garden at the park for a community project designed "to benefit the greater good of Bedford County and the state of Tennessee."...

Motorcycles will return to Bell Buckle (05/01/07) Bell Buckle is well known for its celebration of RCs and Moonpies, as well as hosting country music showcases, antique shops, and country cooking. Now their newest tradition is all about motorcycles! Designated as the Official Tennessee State Bike Show Championship, Bell Buckle Motorcycle Days is set for Saturday, May 19 and Sunday, May 20...

Moon Pie time approaches (04/23/07) It gets bigger every year and Bell Buckle organizers are hoping that this year's 13th Annual RC-Moon Pie Festival will be the best yet. The event, where two Southern traditions, RC Colas and a Moon Pie, are brought together for a grand celebration, is set for Saturday, June 16, kicking off at 7 a.m. until 5 that evening...

Defibrillator may save Bell Buckle lives (04/20/07) As a draw of historic and artistic appeal, Bell Buckle has numerous visitors throughout the year, and a sizable portion of those tourists are elderly. With medical help on the other end of the county, seconds could be vital to saving someone's life. In response to that concern, the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce has donated a defibrillator to the Town of Bell Buckle for the downtown shopping area...

Bell Buckle residents must pay for sewer repairs (04/11/07) About half the residents of Bell Buckle will soon be receiving letters from the town requesting that leaks in their sewer service line be repaired. The town recently conducted smoke testing on the sewer line around Bell Buckle and, according to water manager Ronnie Lokey, 84 of some 160 households in the community were found to have leaks in their service lines...

New gallery owner plans art festival (04/04/07) The owner of a new art gallery in Bell Buckle plans an art and music festival there this September which will award $3,000 prizes in each of three divisions -- considerably more than at comparable shows. "That's really created a buzz in the art community," said furniture-maker Bob Crutcher, who re-opened his Bell Buckle Art Gallery on March 1 after running limited hours last October through December...

Daffodil Day brightens up Bell Buckle (03/17/07) A chilly and windy day didn't stop folks from heading to Bell Buckle Saturday morning for Daffodil Day. The flowers were as bright as the wind was brisk. Judging took longer than anticipated this year due to the large amount of entries and some organizers said it was the largest crowd they have had...

Trees, open space concern Bell Buckle (03/16/07) Recommendations for an open space ordinance will be examined by the Bell Buckle Planning Commission as members continue to shape how they want their community to look. Alderperson Jenny Hunt, who is also a member of the town's tree board, gave commission members suggestions for them and state planners to examine...

Bell Buckle rescinds reward offer after legal opinion (03/15/07) Bell Buckle was forced to rescind a reward offered for information dealing with recent cases of arson due to a legal opinion from the Municipal Technical Advisory Service [MTAS]. Last month, the town council voted to donate a matching amount of $2,500 to Crimestoppers in hopes that law enforcement could learn who is responsible for a series of recent fires in Bell Buckle. Four volunteer firemen was later charged with setting the blazes...

Bell Buckle welcomes spring with Daffodil Day (03/13/07) Getting in the mood for spring will not be a problem for Bell Buckle this weekend as the colors come out for Daffodil Day on Saturday. The annual event, sponsored by the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce & Bell Buckle Tree Board, is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m....

Daffodil Day is coming (03/06/07) With warmer weather bringing all the green stuff back to life, it's time once again for Daffodil Day in Bell Buckle. The annual event is set for Saturday, March 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is sponsored by the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce & Bell Buckle Tree Board...

Three suspects allegedly had to rekindle fires (03/03/07) Three of the four arson suspects in two fires at Bell Buckle are also charged with attempted arson, according to their arrest warrants and the sheriff's chief deputy. "They set it and had to go back ... some of them did," Bedford County Sheriff's Chief Deputy David Williams Jr. said Saturday morning when asked about the warrants...

Fund-raiser postponed in wake of arson scandal (03/02/07) In the wake of four volunteer firefighters' arrests on Wednesday, the Bell Buckle Fire Department's annual portrait photo sale has been postponed at least one month, the fire chief said this morning. "If sales are down, we'll stop, but everybody we talk to feels like we won't have a problem," Chief Ronnie Lokey said, emphasizing his discussion with a representative of the company that conducts the sales...

Bell Buckle named Tree City (03/02/07) For the seventh year, Bell Buckle has been named a Tree City USA community by the National Arbor Day Foundation. A presentation will be made at the upcoming Daffodil Day, set for March 17. Bell Buckle is the smallest town in Tennessee that has this honor...

Bell Buckle web site now available (03/02/07) Bell Buckle has activated its new web site, which will enable residents to download documents and meeting minutes. The site -- http://www.townofbellbuckle.com -- went active on Thursday. Although alderperson Jenny Hunt, who has overseen the construction of the Internet site, said that are there still some additions to be made, users are already able to access a wealth of information about the town's government workings...

Four firefighters charged in arsons (03/01/07) When the fire alarm sounded, four young volunteers eagerly responded to battle the blaze. Fires, in at least two cases, they allegedly set. These volunteer firefighters were charged with arson Wednesday in connection with two house fires at Bell Buckle. Fire Chief Ronnie Lokey said he clearly remembers fighting a fire with one of them, and he described another as a member of an Explorer Post that sparked his interest...

Four firefighters charged in arsons (03/01/07) When the fire alarm sounded, four young volunteers eagerly responded to battle the blaze. Fires, in at least two cases, they allegedly set. These volunteer firefighters were charged with arson Wednesday in connection with two house fires at Bell Buckle. Fire Chief Ronnie Lokey said he clearly remembers fighting a fire with one of them, and he described another as a member of an Explorer Post that sparked his interest...

Firefighters to be arrested for arson (02/28/07) Arrests of four volunteer firefighters on arson charges were anticipated this afternoon in connection with two house fires around Bell Buckle, according to Bedford County Sheriff Randall Boyce. "At least four will be, maybe five," Boyce told the Times-Gazette yesterday afternoon about the suspects who are believed to have set fires together...

Bell Buckle creates new zoning (02/16/07) A new zoning classification has been created in Bell Buckle that will allow residential areas containing large estates. The town board voted Tuesday to create the classification called an Agricultural/Residential Estate Zone, which would "provide suitable areas for large estates and for agricultural uses" with a minimum required lot size of three acres...

Bell Buckle to keep watch on neighbors (02/13/07) Concerns about a series of recent suspicious fires in Bell Buckle have prompted the community to meet later this week to discuss the possibility of forming a neighborhood watch. The meeting is set for Thursday night starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Bell Buckle United Methodist Church and all residents are urged to participate. The event will be a potluck dinner, and residents are urged to bring their favorite dish and drink...

Bell Buckle fired up over Chili Cook-off (02/12/07) Do you have a big appetite? Then get ready because the Bell Buckle Volunteer Fire Department is holding its first ever Chili Cook-off. The event is set for Saturday, Feb. 24, at the new Bell Buckle Fire Station on Main Street. All cooks are encouraged to participate whether they live in Bell Buckle or elsewhere. ...

Bell Buckle retains water resolution (02/09/07) In a special called meeting Thursday afternoon, the Bell Buckle town council voted to keep a water resolution intact that has caused concern from those living outside the small town. The council also suggested that the town's planning commission review the resolution in conjunction with the city and Bedford County's planning efforts this year...

Harmony comes to Bell Buckle (01/29/07) A 1902 Behr Brothers upright piano has been officially donated to the Bell Buckle Town Hall renovation project by First Community Bank of Bedford County. The instrument, displayed at the hall since October, is now there permanently. "The piano will bring harmony back to Town Hall," said Bell Buckle first lady Carla Webb, who has been leading the effort to spruce up the building...

Bell Buckle planners call for resolution to go (01/19/07) Bell Buckle's planning commission recommended that a controversial water resolution be rescinded due to several "technical issues" that had arisen. The commission also asked that after rescinding the move that the topic come back to them for more study...

Growth planning process continues (01/13/07) Leaders from various aspects of Bedford County and its municipalities will gather again soon as an advisory panel to help a consultant develop a growth plan for local governments. The consultant, Doug Tennant of Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon Inc., Nashville, has planned another meeting of the panel he's calling the "PC 1101 Plan Advisory Committee" to help local governments respond to a law requiring urban growth plans...

Taps can be added in Bell Buckle (01/10/07) A water moratorium was lifted by Bell Buckle's town council Tuesday and changes were made to a resolution passed last month that restricts taps to persons living outside that community's city limits. Several landowners from outside the town's corporate limits took issue with the move, which they claim is taking away their rights to do what they want to with their property...

Arson suspected in Bell Buckle fire (12/19/06) One of two fires in Bell Buckle since Friday has been seen as suspicious and while there had been no determination by noon Monday that it's arson, two state arson investigators were on the scene. "It's suspicious and we're looking into it," said Mead McWhorter, a special agent with the Bomb and Arson Section of the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. "We'll see what we can find out" about a fire that burned two barns on Cumberland Street...

BCUD wants new agreement with Bell Buckle (12/18/06) With conversation described as confusing by some commissioners, the Bedford County Utility District Board last week voted 4-1 to have a new water sale contract with Bell Buckle. Despite their debate over when the pending contract, as submitted by the town, might be renewed and/or altered, the commissioners' discussion indicates that they want to negotiate a different price for water sold to Bell Buckle...

Fire in Bell Buckle (12/16/06)

Bell Buckle water system can handle growth (12/14/06) Bell Buckle's water system appears to be in good shape and can handle demands in the future, according to a capacity analysis done for the small town. According to environmental engineer Jim Patterson, much of their water system can serve "reasonable growth within the system without sacrificing the quality of service being provided," and that there are only certain areas that would require upgrades, limited primarily to line size...

Growth plan being reviewed (12/04/06) Bedford County leaders have begun a series of meetings to reconsider their urban growth plan which was adopted several years ago and their approach is with the help of a professional planner. The consultant, Doug Tennant of Barge, Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon Inc., Nashville, met with a panel he's calling the "PC 1101 Plan Advisory Committee." They're members of the community's Joint Economic Development Committee...

Bell Buckle water system shows profit (11/18/06) Water related issues were just one of the topics looked at by Bell Buckle's town council last week. The council received an update about a water system analysis from Alderman James Anderson, which shows that for the past year, the system has had a net profit of $113,551...

Sewer grant plea in Bell Buckle's plans (11/18/06) Bell Buckle will once again be applying for a Community Development Block Grant [CDBG] to help fund state mandated repairs to its sewer system but may try a different approach this time around. Sarah Brown of the South Central Development District said that the town could apply for $500,000 for water and sewer projects, but advised that asking for a smaller amount might be the right strategy to getting funded this time. ...

The other amendment on Tuesday's ballot (11/04/06) It's proposed constitutional amendment #1 -- the definition of marriage -- that's getting all the attention, but the other amendment on Tuesday's general election ballot could have an impact on senior citizens, and on local governments. Amendment #2 would allow counties and cities to grant property tax relief to senior citizens by, in effect, freezing the property tax bill on their primary residence at the time they turn 65. ...

Delk's family grateful for local support (10/30/06) The rambunctious 5-year-old that ran around Bell Buckle Park Saturday seemed like any other child having his birthday party. The only exception was that the occasion also celebrated the end of a three year legal battle over whom Christian Delk would live with: His family in Bell Buckle or foster parents in Florida...

'Haunted Evening' again in Bell Buckle (10/25/06) Bell Buckle will host its 12th annual Old-Fashioned Haunted Evening Saturday from 5-9 p.m., with a wide variety of activities. There will be a cemetery stroll; fortune tellers; carnival games for all ages; a "haunted hayride" and the chance to go through the Murfreesboro Fire Department's Christy Houston Fire Safety House...

Two events for two different children (10/23/06) Two special events for two special kids are slated Saturday at Bell Buckle Park. Jeff and Tiffany Delk are inviting the community to celebrate the adoption of Christian Mormillo Delk at the Park from 4 to 5 p.m. Saturday. The celebration is also an expression of gratitude by the Delks to the community for the support and kindness during the battle they had fought in Florida courts to regain custody of Christian from his foster parents...

Bell Buckle Town Hall spruced up (10/20/06) The look of Bell Buckle Town Hall is changing bit by bit -- and it's the small town's new first lady who's leading the way. Soon after Carla Webb's husband Dennis was elected mayor, she walked into the building and thought "this is not a very welcoming place."...

Webb craft fair planned this weekend (10/18/06) Bright, but cool and clear days are finally upon us and what better way to spend your free time than browsing through Bell Buckle during the 30th Annual Webb School Art and Craft Show. The event will be held this weekend in historic Bell Buckle from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday with plenty of fun for everyone...

Bell Buckle narrowly missed block grant (10/12/06) Bell Buckle was just two steps away from receiving a much needed Community Development Block Grant [CDBG] to help pay for repairs to the sewer system, the town board learned Tuesday. The small town was number 18 on the list and the cut off point was at number 16. Shelbyville was number 15 and received $450,000 while Bell Buckle had requested $377,000 for the state mandated upgrade to the sewer system...

Elkins honored by Bell Buckle (10/12/06) A "living legend" was honored Sunday by the town of Bell Buckle, which named the new volunteer fire hall after Chief James W. Elkins. A large crowd attended to witness the occasion and to shake Chief Elkins' hand and get his picture.  Refreshments were provided afterwards by the Bell Buckle United Methodist Church where everyone waited their turn to speak to Elkins and congratulate him on this-much deserved honor. ...

Bell Buckle to study water capacity (10/06/06) A map of the Bell Buckle water system is to be drawn up as the town's council sat down for a special meeting Thursday to discuss a water system analysis. Last month, Bell Buckle imposed a 120 day moratorium on water taps for persons outside the city limits so that the analysis can be completed...

CORRECTED: Too country, too modest for 'Idol'? (10/05/06) Thousands of hopefuls sing their hearts out each year in cities across the nation during American Idol tryouts. For most of them, that's where the journey ends. Not so for Motlow College student Nicole Nichols, who survived a 20-hour wait in line to register and another long vigil two days later to try out for American Idol in Memphis last month, made it through two tryouts, and earned a personal interview with Simon Fuller, the show's creator...

Bell Buckle fire hall will honor Elkins (10/03/06) Sunday is to be a special day for James Elkins as the Town of Bell Buckle honors the retired fire chief by formally naming the new fire hall after him. The ceremony is to be held Oct. 8 at 3 p.m. The town's leaders say there is no way to ever adequately thank Elkins for his 43 years of service. He served as chief of the Bell Buckle Volunteer Fire Department from February 1950 until he retired in February of 1993...

Bell Buckle turned down for sewer grant (09/30/06) Once again, the town of Bell Buckle will not be getting a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to fund a state-mandated upgrade to their sewer system. The town learned of the rejection Wednesday in a letter from Philip Trauernicht, director of the Department of Economic and Community Development...

Lokey steps down as Bell Buckle fire chief (09/14/06) Bell Buckle Fire Chief Mary Lokey announced her retirement from that post Tuesday, but she will still serve as a firefighter and first responder for several more years. Lokey recommended that the council appoint the slot to her husband Ronnie, who is already deputy chief over fire suppression and also serves as Bell Buckle's water manager. He will serve as interim chief and Mayor Dennis Webb will soon get with the entire department to discuss ways to improve the volunteer department...

Bell Buckle defers water taps due to study (09/14/06) Bell Buckle imposed a 120 day moratorium on water taps for persons outside that town's city limits so that a water analysis can be completed. Last month, two requests for water taps were deferred for so the board could look at capacity and supply with the town's water system. Water manager Ronnie Lokey had said there had been a big demand on the system this summer and some residents had complained about low pressure...

New Bell Buckle leaders sworn in (08/16/06) It was the changing of the guard for Bell Buckle Tuesday as a new mayor and three new aldermen were sworn in. Dennis Webb was the first to take the oath, administered by outgoing mayor Linda Key. Key stated she couldn't think of anyone better to fill the position she held for 12 years in the small community. Key was later presented with a gift as thanks for all the work she had accomplished...

New Bell Buckle leaders sworn in (08/16/06) It was the changing of the guard for Bell Buckle Tuesday as a new mayor and three new aldermen were sworn in. Dennis Webb was the first to take the oath, administered by outgoing mayor Linda Key. Key stated she couldn't think of anyone better to fill the position she held for 12 years in the small community. Key was later presented with a gift as thanks for all the work she had accomplished...

Bell Buckle granted $10K for park (08/09/06) The Town of Bell Buckle will receive $10,000 for amphitheater improvements at Bell Buckle Park, part of more than $11.3 million in parks and recreation grants awarded to recipients across Tennessee. "We are so thrilled to hear this," Bell Buckle Park Chairman Jenny Hunt said Tuesday. "This is absolutely fantastic!"...

Custody battle ends (08/08/06) A long custody battle between a family in Bell Buckle and a foster couple in Florida is over for good. According to the Daytona Beach News Journal, Denise and Ivar Baklid of Orange City, Fla., announced Monday that they will not move forward with their appeal to gain custody of a 4-year-old named Christian...

Yard sale supports custody fight (07/29/06) People usually turn out early for yard sales -- and the one held this weekend to help a Bell Buckle family with legal costs stemming from a long custody battle had folks lining up to pitch in. Plenty of books, computer software, clothes, furniture and other items too numerous to list were for sale, with all proceeds going toward paying for the mounting legal fees incurred in a legal battle for 4-year-old Christian to live with his maternal cousin and her husband, Tiffany and Jeff Delk of Bell Buckle, and his extended family.. ...

Yard sale to help with legal fees (07/25/06) A multi-family yard sale is to be held this weekend to help offset the costs of a prolonged legal battle to keep a 4-year old with his family in Bell Buckle. The two-day event has been organized by family and friends and will take place Friday and Saturday, rain or shine at 3375 Fairfield Pike from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day...

Webb seeks Bell Buckle mayorship (07/25/06) Dennis Webb has announced his candidacy for mayor of Bell Buckle in the Aug. 3 town election. Webb has served as an alderman for two years and has been involved in all aspects of town government. He and his wife Carla have been residents of the town since 1995...

Reagor a candidate for Bell Buckle mayor (07/24/06) Frank Reagor has announced his candidacy for mayor of Bell Buckle in the Aug. 3 town election. Reagor has served for six years as an alderman and 1 1/2 years on the town's planning commission. He has been a resident of Bell Buckle since 1988 and has family connections in the area going back more than 100 years. He is retired. He and his wife have two children, three grandchildren and four-grandchildren. He is a member of Bell Buckle Church of Christ...

Three-Star upgrade is certain for county (07/15/06) It's all over but the shouting. According to a review team which visited Shelbyville on Friday, Bedford County's upgrade to a Level III certification in the Governor's Three-Star Award program is, while not yet official, a foregone conclusion. "The points are here," said Renee Winchester of the review team. "You are being certified, so let me congratulate you."...

Bell Buckle adjusts tax rate for growth (07/14/06) Bell Buckle lowered its tax rate on first reading by eight cents to 21 cents, following action likely to be taken by the county in the same regard. Last week, Property Assessor Ronda Clanton stated that the county's property tax base had grown by more than $532 million. As a result, commissioners might adopt a property tax rate this summer that's lower than the current rate of $2.77 per $100 of assessed value...

Florida couple asks overturn of custody decision (07/08/06) The battle over custody of a 4-year-old boy between his family in Bell Buckle and a foster couple in Florida appears far from over. According to the Orlando Sentinel, an attorney for Denise and Ivar Baklid of Orange City, Fla. filed a notice of appeal with the 5th District Court of Appeal Thursday asking the court to overturn Circuit Court Judge Frank Marriott's decision last month to reject their attempt to adopt the boy...

Bell Buckle Cafe to re-open soon (07/06/06) There isn't any evidence that a fire had taken place at the Bell Buckle Cafe except for the signs out front telling hungry customers the restaurant is closed. Fortunately, the damage was relatively minor and the owners hope to reopen the doors of the famous eatery to the public soon...

RC / Moon Pie fest attracts strong crowd (06/17/06) BELL BUCKLE -- Chamber of Commerce president Billy Phillips said at midday Saturday that he was pleased with the crowd for this year's 12th Annual RC Cola / Moon Pie Festival, which started slow but built as the day went on. "I believe we're going to have a crescendo in about another hour," said Phillips about 11:40...

Boy returned to Bell Buckle family (06/16/06) A 4-year-old boy caught in the middle of a painful custody battle has been returned to his family in Bell Buckle. According to the Orlando Sentinel, the boy Christian has been placed back with his maternal cousin and her husband, Tiffany and Jeff Delk of Bell Buckle, after a judge denied an adoption petition from foster parents Denise and Ivar Baklid of Orange City, Fla., who had kept the boy for the past three months...

Bell Buckle has one year to fix ailing sewer system (06/16/06) The clock is now ticking for Bell Buckle to correct problems with its sewer system. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation [TDEC] informed environmental engineer Jim Patterson that it had accepted Bell Buckle's Corrective Action Plan [CAP] for the ailing system...

Lokey won't resign after all (06/15/06) Bell Buckle Fire Chief Mary Lokey has withdrawn her resignation she submitted to the town council last month. She told the council Tuesday she would like to continue to serve as the head of the volunteer fire department. Last month, Lokey stated that she stay on for an extra month in the spot at the request of Mayor Linda Key, who asked that action on her replacement be deferred until this month...

Bell Buckle disputes water test results (06/15/06) Bell Buckle is disputing some of the results of a recent sanitary survey of its water system, which has resulted in a notice of violation from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation [TDEC]. The survey was conducted on May 18 and the town received a score of 82 out of 100, putting the system in the "Provisionally Approved" category. Water manager Ronnie Lokey said the town got a score of 89 two years ago...

It's RC / Moon Pie time again (06/08/06) The third Saturday of June is next week and everyone in Bell Buckle knows what that means -- it's RC Cola and Moon Pie time! The 12th annual RC Cola / Moon Pie Festival, celebrating one of the South's most honored traditions, is set for June 17. The festival kicks off bright and early at 7 a.m. with the 11th annual Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce 10 Mile Run. According to chamber chairman Billy Phillips, the race has had to limit entries to 1,000 participants. Over 700 are already entered...

Taps approved for scaled-down development (05/19/06) Bell Buckle's planning commission gave a favorable recommendation Thursday for a water tap request for a possible development that has been scaled down. Adam Hensley of Bob Parks Realty had originally asked for 10 to 15 water taps for a piece of property on Highway 82...

Feel the thunder as bikes roar into Bell Buckle (05/18/06) There will be lots of leather and motorcycles rumbling through Bedford County Saturday as Bell Buckle hosts Tennessee's first official bike show championship. The small historic railroad town is already well known for hosting several popular events such as RC/Moon Pie Day and the Webb Craft Fair...

Bell Buckle fire chief Lokey to step down (05/10/06) The chief of Bell Buckle's Volunteer Fire Department has decided to step down from that position, the town council learned Tuesday. However, Mary Lokey will stay on for an extra month in the spot at the request of Mayor Linda Key, who asked that action on her replacement be deferred until next month...

Bell Buckle planners approve tap requests (04/24/06) Bell Buckle's planning commission made several recommendations concerning a water tap request and a site permit for Webb School. Adam Hensley of Bob Parks Reality made a request for 10 to 15 water taps for a piece of property on Highway 82. The taps would tie into the existing line and would not be affected by a moratorium placed on extending water lines by the town...

Bell Buckle election is Aug. 3 (04/20/06) The May primary isn't the only event commanding Bedford County election officials' attention this spring; Bell Buckle is having an election on Aug. 3. That's the same day as the county general election as well as state and federal primaries leading to the Nov. 7 general election for Congress, governor and state House races...

Bell Buckle to host motorcycle rally (04/18/06) The low rumble of those big hogs will fill the air in Bell Buckle next month when the Official Tennessee State Bike Show Championship takes place. Bell Buckle Motorcycle Days is set for Saturday, May 20, with food, entertainment and a lot of motorcycles moving through the streets...

Bell Buckle will miss Marcus (04/15/06) Bell Buckle lost a friend that just about everyone who has visited the village has seen or spoken to. He met his end under the wheels of a vehicle at some point last weekend while crossing Webb Road. His name was Marcus. He was the town dog. Actually, he belonged to former mayor Eugene Strobel, but who owns whom is always in doubt when it comes to human-canine relationships. Many have said that he belonged to the town...

Bell Buckle finds source for sewer loan (04/14/06) Bell Buckle's town council approved a resolution Tuesday which would enable them to spend money on a state mandated sewer rehabilitation project now and be reimbursed later from bond proceeds. The resolution was drawn up by the Tennessee Municipal League [TML]. If the town needs to borrow money through TML for the project, then funds they had spent would be reimbursed under the loan program...

Site at center of Bell Buckle controversy sold (04/08/06) A piece of property outside of Bell Buckle which has been the center of controversy in that small community for nearly two years has been sold. According to records from the Bedford County Register of Deeds, Billy and Sue Dean sold the 210 acres of land on Highway 82 East that many local residents feared would be developed to Virginia L. Stewart of Gretna, La...

Bell Buckle family banned from adoption hearing (03/30/06) Florida courts have ruled that a Bell Buckle family will not be able to participate in a final adoption hearing for a 4-year-old relative they cared for. The Orlando Sentinel reported Wednesday that the 5th District Court of Appeal ruled that Denise and Ivar Baklid of Orange City will be the only ones considered when a Circuit Court judge has the hearing to adopt Christian...

Daffodil Day observed (03/25/06) The wind was a bit brisk last Saturday but with the sun shining, the mood was just as bright as the flowers that were all over Bell Buckle for the annual Daffodil Day. The event was sponsored by the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce and the Tree Board and kicked off with the Daffodil Show at the Town Hall...

Bell Buckle seeks sewer funding (03/15/06) Finding a method of funding for a state mandated sewer rehabilitation project was one of the topics discussed by Bell Buckle's town council Tuesday night. The council approved asking the Tennessee Municipal League [TML] to draw up a reimbursement resolution which would enable the town to spend some of the taxpayers' money on the sewer project. If they need to borrow money through TML, then funds they had spent would be reimbursed under the loan program...

Daffodil day is coming (03/11/06) The sun is shining, the weather is finally warmer and the daffodills are popping up everywhere. So we can't think of a better time to celebrate Daffodill Day in Bell Buckle. The event is set for Saturday, March 18 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and is sponsored by the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce and the Tree Board...

Protecting Bell Buckle's history (02/18/06) State planners turned over copies of new subdivision regulations to the Bell Buckle Planning Commission and proposed subdivision guidelines were examined Thursday. Planners made sure that the new regulations, approved last month, were properly signed off on. The approval of the regulation paves the way for the community to designate its planning commission as a regional planning commission, which requires approval from the county commission and state officials...

Daffodil Day is on the way (02/17/06) You're probably as tired of the dreary, dark and depressing days of winter as many of us are, but in just a few short weeks, the colors of spring will be coming out in Bell Buckle for their annual Daffodil Day. The event is set for Saturday, March 18 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and is sponsored by the Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce and the Tree Board...

Bell Buckle faces hard choices for sewer upgrade (02/16/06) The time to make hard decisions regarding how to pay for a state mandated sewer upgrade is a topic Bell Buckle will have to face within the next few months. That's what the town council heard Tuesday from Jim Patterson, environmental engineer from St. John Engineering of Manchester, who has been assisting the small community with fixing its ailing wastewater system...

Boy must be returned in 30 days (02/06/06) A Florida appellate court ruled Thursday that a 4-year-old boy living with family in Bell Buckle must be returned to his former foster parents in Orange City within a month, according to the Orlando Sentinel. Denise and Ivar Baklid had cared for Christian, for 16 months after his birth. They had planned to adopt him in March 2003 when his maternal cousin, Tiffany Delk, and her husband, Jeff, both of Bell Buckle, applied for adoption...

Livery Stable Antique Mall can expand (01/27/06) The Livery Stable Antique Mall in Bell Buckle was approved Wednesday evening for an expansion of about a third more than its current 6,000-square-foot building. Bell Buckle planning commissioners unanimously approved a request from mall owner Ron Rowlette who estimated the 2,000-square-foot expansion will cost approximately $55,000...

Bell Buckle boy sent back to foster parents (01/26/06) A Florida appeals court ordered a 4-year-old living in Bell Buckle returned to a foster couple who had cared for the boy before local relatives gained custody of him. Denise and Ivar Baklid had cared for Christian, for 16 months after his birth. They had planned to adopt him in March 2003 when his maternal cousin, Tiffany Delk, and her husband, Jeff, both of Bell Buckle, applied for adoption...

Bell Buckle adopts subdivision regulations (01/20/06) A rough draft of subdivision regulations were adopted by the Bell Buckle Planning Commission Thursday, paving the way for the small community to designate its planning commission as a regional planning commission. That action would require approval from the county commission as well as an OK from the State of Tennessee. ...

Bell Buckle seeks block grant for sewer (01/12/06) Bell Buckle's town council has approved a resolution to submit an application for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to fund state mandated sewer upgrades. The council applied for the CDBG with the town to pay 30 percent, about $161,700, with the grant side at $377,300...

New Year's closings announced (12/29/05) A variety of local agencies and offices will close this weekend for the New Year's holiday. Here are some schedules of broad interest: Bedford County Courthouse and courthouse annex offices will close Saturday (where applicable) and Monday....

Bell Buckle businesses burglarized (12/20/05) Several businesses on Bell Buckle's Railroad Square were entered early Saturday. Small amounts of change were missing Saturday morning from Bella's Wood Crafts, Emmy's Cafe, Phillips General Store, Bluebird Cafe and the Cat's Meow. Doors were kicked and cash registers entered, Bedford County Sheriff's Department reports said. A time stamp indicated a cash register at Bella's was opened at 2:49 a.m...

Bell Buckle planners get rough draft (12/17/05) Bell Buckle's planning commission received a rough draft of subdivision regulations and the group will conduct a public hearing next month so that the public can have input. The planning commission meets on the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m., which would be Jan. 19 in this case. The group recommended that the town council advertise notice of a public meeting...

Bell Buckle applies for sewer grant (12/15/05) Hoping to pay for state mandated sewer upgrades, Bell Buckle's town council voted to reapply for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and to request Rural Development funding. The council voted to apply for the CDBG with the town to pay 30 percent, about $161,700 with the grant side at $377,300...

Court may send Bell Buckle boy to Florida couple (11/21/05) A state appeals court in Florida upheld a lower court's decision last week that grants a foster couple in Orange City custody of a 4-year-old boy who has been the object of a legal tug of war between them and his relatives in Bell Buckle. According to the Orlando Sentinel, the 5th District Court of Appeal's made the ruling on Wednesday which may pave the way for Denise and Ivar Baklid to reunite with the boy, Christian, who was removed from their custody almost 2 1/2 years ago...

Cooperation a must in planning, says speaker (11/18/05) Cooperation between the county and cities is a vital component to effective planning, according to one of the authors of Public Act 1101, which requires growth plans in Tennessee. Sam Edwards, executive director of the Greater Nashville Regional Council, the counterpart to the South Central Tennessee Development District, spoke Thursday to various county commissioners and planning commission members, as well as mayors and members of their planning boards, during an educational meeting...

Bell Buckle mulls subdivision rules (11/17/05) Citizens submitted suggestions and the Bell Buckle Planning Commission worked toward tweaking subdivision regulations that many hope would allow the small town to deal with growth and retain its unique character. One possible addition to the regulations, submitted by commission member Frank Reagor, would create a designated open space in any future subdivision. Developers would be required to provide an additional 30 percent of open space over and above the minimum lot size...

Bell Buckle breaks ground at fire hall site (11/14/05) Hoping for an open house by next spring, ground was broken Sunday for the longer awaited expansion of the Bell Buckle Volunteer Fire Hall. Bell Buckle Fire Chief Mary Lokey thanked all the citizens who came out, including Mayor Linda Key, Aldermen Frank Reagor and Dennis Webb, State Sen. Jim Tracy and retired chief James Elkins...

Wartrace, Bell Buckle continue police discussions (11/10/05) How does the "Cascade Police Department Serving Wartrace and Bell Buckle" sound? While Bell Buckle's town council deferred action on a mutual aid agreement between the two communities Tuesday night, citizens got to hear from the officer who might be patrolling their streets in the future...

Bell Buckle approves regional planning (11/10/05) Bell Buckle approved designating its planning commission as a regional planning commission but it will require approval from the county commission as well as an OK from the state of Tennessee. The request will not be submitted to the county body until the planning commission approves Bell Buckle's subdivision regulations, which could take place over the next two months...

Veterans Day closings announced (11/09/05) A number of agencies will close Friday in observance of the Veterans' Day holiday. Here are some schedules of broad interest: ***Closed Friday Bedford County Courthouse and Courthouse Annex offices will close Friday and (where applicable) Saturday....

Bell Buckle hears reasons for grant refusal (11/09/05) Bell Buckle's town council heard the reasons Tuesday why they did not receive a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to help pay for a state mandated sewer system upgrade. Mayor Linda Key was informed last month by Philip Trauernicht, director of Tennessee's Department of Economic and Community Development, that Bell Buckle's project "did not rank high enough to be funded."...

City, county leaders to discuss growth (11/03/05) There are cries about annexation in Bell Buckle. New zoning changes have been made for rural areas. A call for a moratorium on large subdivisions and changes in the urban growth boundary are being discussed in Shelbyville. No doubt about it, one of the leading issues facing Bedford County is growth and development, which is why county and municipal leaders are being called together to talk about it on Nov. 17...

Ward's playground is dedicated (10/29/05) Bell Buckle has been given a gift of love. There were both smiles and tears in Bell Buckle Friday as the playground constructed in memory of Ward Anderson was dedicated. Friday would have been Ward's third birthday. Citizens, children and Webb School students attended the ceremony in honor of the 2-year-old, who died following an accident at Tims Ford Lake this past summer...

Bell Buckle unites to build a dream (10/25/05) With dozens of Bell Buckle volunteers chipping in this past weekend, the playground constructed in memory of Ward Anderson is nearly complete. "It's truly incredible and will be even more so once the bronze statue and landscaping are done," family member Sue Allison said in an e-mail to the Times-Gazette...

Bell Buckle fails to get sewer upgrade grant (10/22/05) The small community of Bell Buckle will have to find a way to come up with a half a million dollars or more to pay for a state mandated sewer system upgrade after the town was denied a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Mayor Linda Key was informed earlier this month by Philip Trauernicht, director of Tennessee's Department of Economic and Community Development, that Bell Buckle's project "did not rank high enough to be funded."...

Planning group wants regional designation (10/21/05) Bell Buckle's planning commission wants to be designated a regional planning commission and will ask for the city council's approval as well as an OK from the county commission. However, the request will not be submitted to the county body until the planning commission approves Bell Buckle's subdivision regulations, which should take place over the next two months...

Workers needed to install memorial playground (10/13/05) Ward's playground is on its way. The word from Bell Buckle is to mark your calendar for Friday, Oct. 21, and Saturday, Oct. 22, to help install the playground erected in honor of Ward Anderson, who died after an accident at Tims Ford Lake this past summer...

Wartrace, Bell Buckle may share police (10/12/05) The city of Wartrace will be meeting this week with a representative from Bell Buckle to talk about possible options for a "joint police cooperative." The meeting is set for Thursday morning at 10 with a representative from the South Central Development Center, Wartrace Mayor Don Gallagher, Chief Billy Smith and Bell Buckle Alderman Frank Reagor...

It's Webb Craft Fair time again (10/11/05) It has been voted the number one Art and Craft Show in the state by the readers of Tennessee Magazine and it kicks off this coming weekend. The 29th Annual Webb School Art and Craft Show will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m....

Responding to Bell Buckle criticism (10/09/05) Well, here we go again. Once again, I express my opinion on a topic of local interest and some folks totally miss my point. I'm speaking about the one section in my most recent column that dealt with the behavior of some citizens during Bell Buckle town meetings...

Moon Pie fest among state's "must-see" experiences (09/24/05) FRANKLIN -- Gov. Phil Bredesen has asked his department commissioners to name 20 things people need to do in Tennessee before they die, and typical tourist attractions don't count. Those other things include attending the RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival in Bell Buckle, according to Dianne Murray, a volunteer with Tennessee's Backroads Heritage who attended the governor's tourism conference Friday...

Bell Buckle planners receive survey (09/17/05) Bell Buckle's Planning Commission received the results of a town survey on growth that many hope will serve as a road map for a land use plan. Alderman Dennis Webb stated that a total of 174 numbered copies of the survey were distributed to homes in the city limits, with 85 returned. Many comments from citizens were also included with the results...

Bell Buckle annexation ban questioned (09/16/05) Questions were raised Tuesday about the wording of a resolution passed in Bell Buckle last month halting any annexation until July 2006. Murfreesboro attorney Jack Heffington, who represents Billy and Sue Dean, said that there was some confusion about the resolution; that the Deans' property "might not been excluded from that resolution."...

Progress continues on Bell Buckle park (09/15/05) Progress on the Bell Buckle Park is moving quickly with the town council accepting a landscaping contract and bids for a memorial playground. The contract from Greenspace Design was distributed to the mayor and all aldermen and city attorney Richard Dugger, who reviewed the contract and gave his approval...

Bell Buckle holds off on water lines (09/15/05) With water issues dominating the discussion, Bell Buckle's Town Council voted Tuesday to temporarily postpone water line extensions outside its city limits while approving a controversial water tap for a subdivision on the edge of its Urban Growth Area...

Labor day closings announced (09/02/05) A variety of local agencies and organizations will close Monday for the Labor Day holiday. Here are some closings of broad interest: Bedford County Courthouse and courthouse annex offices will close Monday and, where applicable, Saturday....

Bell Buckle goes against planners' advice (08/20/05) Despite advice to the contrary from state planners, Bell Buckle's planning commission passed on the issue over a water tap for a subdivision on the edge of its Urban Growth Area to the town council without recommendation. Greg Curl has requested a 6-inch water line extension with 18 taps for the Meadowview Estates subdivision, which will have a Wartrace mailing address. The final plat for the subdivision has already been approved by the county...

Bell Buckle stage, two cars burn (08/15/05) Bell Buckle's stage is gone, at least for now, but the show will go on. "For the Bell Buckle Arts and Crafts Show (Oct. 15-16) there will be entertainment on this stage," Rodney Simmons vowed Sunday afternoon as firefighters extinguished its charred remains a