TOP HOG BBQ | Gallatin, Tennessee 

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Sumner County, Tennessee is set for a stretch of warm, humid weather over the next 10 days, with several rounds of thunderstorms likely.

Temperatures will climb into the upper 80s and mid-90s, with overnight lows holding steady in the mid-70s. Frequent afternoon and evening storms are possible, especially from Wednesday through Monday, bringing both sunshine and unpredictable showers.

Several days may see heavy thunderstorms, mainly during late afternoons. Throughout the week, residents can expect a mix of sun and clouds and should remain vigilant for brief but intense downpours or thunderstorm activity.

Plan for hot, muggy days with limited relief overnight. Keep track of local updates to adjust any outdoor plans, as weather could change quickly in this humid mid-July stretch.

Johnny Ray Jackson, 55, of Sumner County, has been sentenced to ten years behind bars after being found guilty of impersonating a licensed professional and exploiting an elderly client for financial gain.

On July 10, 2025, Judge Dee David Gay ordered Jackson to serve one year in the Sumner County Jail, followed by nine years under Community Corrections supervision.

Jackson's conviction followed a TBI probe uncovering years of illegally selling insurance despite his revoked license and defrauding an elderly client by transferring annuity funds without consent—costing the victim and netting himself over $3,000 in commissions.

Prosecutors highlighted Jackson’s ongoing disregard for the law as they pushed for a strong sentence to safeguard the public.

Under Tennessee law, impersonating a licensed professional is a felony. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to protecting the community and holding offenders accountable.

Sumner County residents are seeing an uptick in mailing expenses as the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) introduced higher postal rates effective July 13, 2025.

The cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp has risen to 78 cents, up from 73 cents, marking a notable increase for everyday letters.

Other mailing options have gone up as well, including metered letters now at 74 cents, domestic postcards at 61 cents, and international mail at $1.70.

These changes are part of the USPS's long-term “Delivering for America” plan, designed to modernize services and stabilize finances.

In a small bright spot, postal insurance rates have dropped by 12%, making it more affordable to protect valuable shipments.

Residents are encouraged to check current rates at their local post office to avoid under-postage and ensure smooth mail delivery.

Law enforcement in Sumner County made major arrests following two traffic stops in Portland, Tennessee, targeting suspected drug activity and human trafficking.

Kenneth Ray Reese, 37, was stopped after a tip-off and found with fentanyl in his possession. Further checks revealed he had multiple outstanding warrants and a lengthy criminal history. His passenger, Amber Renae Armstrong, 25, told officers she had been trafficked by Reese and others.

Leads from Reese’s stop helped officers arrest Brett Mitchell McDorman, 35, who was found with methamphetamine and fentanyl. A search of McDorman’s home uncovered more drugs, stolen property, firearms, and drug paraphernalia.

Both men face a range of felony charges and remain in custody at Sumner County Jail. Authorities say additional charges may follow as the investigation continues, reflecting ongoing efforts to fight crime in the community.

Recent health inspections across Sumner County have highlighted an array of local businesses and public spaces dedicated to exceptional cleanliness and safety.

Between June 30 and July 14, a total of 26 restaurants, pools, and specialty shops in Hendersonville, Gallatin, Portland, Goodlettsville, Westmoreland, Castalian Springs, and White House earned perfect scores of 100 during routine checks.

Well-known establishments like Burger King, Starbucks, Crumbl Cookies, and the Sumner County Family YMCA received top marks, along with unique local favorites such as The Cupcake Collection and The Addiction Ink.

These stellar results reinforce the strong commitment local businesses have to public health, providing peace of mind for both customers and employees.

Residents can report food safety concerns to the Restaurant Complaint/Foodborne Illness Hotline at 800-293-8228 and are encouraged to stay updated on community safety news.

Historical Engagement in Sumner County, TN

July 16–22, 2025

While no major historical anniversaries occur this week, Sumner County’s heritage remains accessible through immersive experiences. Below are curated activities connecting you to pivotal moments in local history:

🏛️ 1. Sumner County Museum’s 50th Anniversary Exhibit

Ongoing through July 2025
Explore artifacts from pivotal eras:

• Native American relics (6,000 B.C. settlements at Castalian Springs)
• Civil War diaries from Alice Williamson detailing Union occupation atrocities (1864)
• Country music memorabilia from Johnny Cash’s performances at the Gallatin Fairgrounds (1960s)
  Location: 183 W. Main St, Gallatin
  Hours: Tue–Sat, 10 AM–4 PM
  Learn more

🌳 2. Hidden History Passport Program

Final weeks! Ends July 31, 2025
Collect stamps at underrecognized sites:

⚒️ 3. Rock Castle Capital Project Tours

Tue/Thu/Sat at 1 PM
Witness Tennessee’s largest historic preservation effort:

• See Daniel Smith’s 1784 limestone mansion restoration
• View his handwritten draft of Tennessee’s first constitution (1796)
• Explore archaeological digs revealing slave quarters artifacts
  Admission: $ 10 adults; reservations recommended
  Details

🍇 4. Agricultural Heritage Experience

Daily at Bledsoe Creek State Park

• 10 AM: Antebellum farming demo (tobacco harvesting techniques)
• 2 PM: Guided walk to Isaac Bledsoe’s 1780s fort ruins
• 4 PM: Muscadine wine tasting at Sumner Crest Winery (continuing 19th-century viticulture)

Why This Week Resonates Historically

July’s heat historically shaped Sumner County’s rhythms:

• Pioneer struggles: Settlers timed crop planting to avoid July’s "fever season" (per 1820 agricultural journals)
• Civil War tensions: Union troops intensified patrols along railroads in July 1864 to prevent Confederate raids
• Cultural shifts: Mid-July marked "circuit rider" visits by Methodist preachers to frontier settlements (1790s–1820s)

Hidden History Passport: An Ongoing Journey Through Time

Running from May through July 2025, this self-guided program invites participants to explore Sumner County's overlooked historical sites, including pioneer cemeteries, Native American mounds, and reconstructed forts.

The "passport" functions as a physical booklet, available at the Sumner County Museum, where visitors collect stamps from each site visited.

Key locations include the prehistoric Native American mounds at Bledsoe's Fort Historical Park—evidence of indigenous settlements dating to 6,000 B.C.—and the Henley Family Cemetery, where Julia Rice's 1866 steamboat tragedy is memorialized.

The program's timing during late June coincides with the anniversary of pivotal 19th-century events, such as the 1795 Battle of Bluff Station, which ended Native American resistance in the region.

By engaging with these sites, participants gain insight into the county's complex layers of history, from pre-colonial times to the Civil War era.

The passport's design encourages reflective observation, asking participants to journal about themes like conflict, resilience, and cultural exchange, thus transforming passive tourism into active historical inquiry.

No-Bake Pineapple Layered Dessert

Here's a delightful summer recipe for No-Bake Pineapple Layered Dessert. It's refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for warm weather gatherings!

Ingredients:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
• Fresh pineapple slices or cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
2. Layer the Ingredients: In a 9x9 inch dish, start with a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom. Then add half of the cream cheese mixture, followed by half of the crushed pineapple. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cream cheese mixture on top.
3. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
4. Serve: Before serving, sprinkle coconut flakes on top if desired and garnish with fresh pineapple slices or cherries.

This dessert is not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for summer parties! Enjoy!

For a visual guide, check out this video. It has 4 other fun recipes that you can also enjoy.

Goodlettsville Parks and Recreation invites families to Fun Friday: Critter Craze on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Moss-Wright Park, 745 Caldwell Drive.

The event features the popular Nashville Zoo’s ZooVentures program, offering up-close animal encounters and interactive presentations about three fascinating species. It's a special chance for visitors of all ages to learn about wildlife in an engaging, hands-on setting.

Educational activities will be provided, making it a fun and informative morning for local families looking to connect with nature.

Activities take place at Shelter 3. Guests should enter the main park entrance and turn right for designated parking, with additional spaces available nearby. For everyone’s safety, parking on grass or in unmarked spots is not allowed.

Bring water, sunscreen, and lawn chairs, and dress for outdoor weather to fully enjoy this memorable experience!

White House, Tennessee, is gearing up for an exciting night as Here Come the Judds, a celebrated tribute band, headlines the Music Under the Stars Summer Concert Series.

The event will light up White House Municipal Park on Saturday, July 19, starting at 6:00 PM.

Proudly sponsored by SixOneFive Realty Advisors, this family-friendly gathering features live music, delicious bites, and local camaraderie.

Enjoy treats from White House Burger and Deja Moo Creamery, the latter donating part of their sales to support Isaiah 117 House – Robertson County, helping children awaiting foster care.

A special lemonade stand will also raise funds for Isaiah 117 House, reinforcing community support.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a perfect summer evening, and visit the Chamber’s Facebook page for a chance at “Best Seats in the House” thanks to NP Clinic.

Sponsorships remain available by contacting the Chamber at 615-672-3937.

Experience a memorable summer night in White House, TN!

Gallatin’s Sip Into Summer returns on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Graham's Estate, promising a vibrant evening from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

This festive gathering celebrates National Wine and Cheese Day, inviting locals to enjoy exquisite wines and gourmet cheeses amidst the scenic beauty of the estate.

Attendees will discover unique finds from a variety of local vendors, including fashionable boutiques, floral displays, and artisans showcasing permanent jewelry.

Live music performances set the mood, making it an ideal occasion for a fun girls’ night, a memorable date, or simply a relaxing evening with friends.

Sip Into Summer guarantees an unforgettable blend of flavors, live entertainment, and stunning views right in the heart of Gallatin.

Celebrate the season in style — mark your calendar and join the community at Graham's Estate for an unforgettable night.

Summer Concert Series at The Streets

FREE concert on the plaza every Thursday, 6:30 - 9:00 pm, June 6 - September 5, 2024

More Info: Summer Concert Series at the Streets

If you would like your business featured in this section, please contact me at here.

Dr. Paul Graden
Founder & Editor, Sumner County Pulse

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Dr. Paul Graden
Founder & Editor, Sumner County Pulse