The Town of Atoka was proud to serve as a sponsor and attend the First Responders Luncheon hosted by the Millington Area Chamber of Commerce. Events like this are a great reminder of how important it is to build strong relationships with our neighboring communities and to support one another in the work we do every day.
We were honored to have Mayor Barry Akin representing the Town of Atoka, Chief Rudolph representing the Atoka Police Department - TN, & Chief Scott representing the AtokA Fire Department.
Our Chiefs are the kind of leaders who don’t seek recognition, but simply show up every day and serve with dedication, professionalism, and heart. Their humility and commitment to others are exactly what make them such strong leaders for our town.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside fellow first responders across the region and celebrate the people who serve selflessly every single day. Thank you to all of our First Responders.
We were honored to have Mayor Barry Akin representing the Town of Atoka, Chief Rudolph representing the Atoka Police Department - TN, & Chief Scott representing the AtokA Fire Department.
Our Chiefs are the kind of leaders who don’t seek recognition, but simply show up every day and serve with dedication, professionalism, and heart. Their humility and commitment to others are exactly what make them such strong leaders for our town.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside fellow first responders across the region and celebrate the people who serve selflessly every single day. Thank you to all of our First Responders.
🔥 BBQ Fest 2026 – Final Results! 🔥
What an unforgettable weekend in Atoka! From incredible food to friendly competition and a whole lot of community spirit, BBQ Fest 2026 did not disappoint. 🙌
Before we close the books on this year’s event, let’s give one more HUGE shoutout to all of our winners 👏👇
🏆 Sauce: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Beans: Down South Grillers
🏆 Chicken: TBDQ
🏆 Beef: Big Ro Ro’s BBQ
🏆 Bacon: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Bologna: Mean Genes
🏆 Dessert: Bad Pig BBQ
🥧 Pie: Craig with Will Be Que
🍹 Signature Cocktail: Tabatha with Will Be Que
🍅 Bloody Mary: Kevin with Bad Pig BBQ
🧀 Grilled Cheese: Swig & Swine
🐖 Pulled Pork: Woods Custom Cookers
🐷 People’s Choice (Pulled Pork): All Hale the Swine
🐖 Whole Hog: Busted Knuckle BBQ
🍖 Ribs: Swine Life BBQ
🏅 Best Local Team: Mean Genes Cooking Team
👨🍳 Kid’s Cook Off Winners:
• Tripp Carr – Beef & Chicken
• Bodie Fair – Chicken
• Wyatt Judd – Beef & Dessert
👑 Grand Champions: Woods Custom Cookers
The competition was fierce, the flavors were top-notch, and every team brought their best to Atoka. We are so proud of all who competed and grateful to everyone who came out to support, volunteer, and celebrate with us.
Already counting down to next year… 🔥🍖👀
What an unforgettable weekend in Atoka! From incredible food to friendly competition and a whole lot of community spirit, BBQ Fest 2026 did not disappoint. 🙌
Before we close the books on this year’s event, let’s give one more HUGE shoutout to all of our winners 👏👇
🏆 Sauce: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Beans: Down South Grillers
🏆 Chicken: TBDQ
🏆 Beef: Big Ro Ro’s BBQ
🏆 Bacon: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Bologna: Mean Genes
🏆 Dessert: Bad Pig BBQ
🥧 Pie: Craig with Will Be Que
🍹 Signature Cocktail: Tabatha with Will Be Que
🍅 Bloody Mary: Kevin with Bad Pig BBQ
🧀 Grilled Cheese: Swig & Swine
🐖 Pulled Pork: Woods Custom Cookers
🐷 People’s Choice (Pulled Pork): All Hale the Swine
🐖 Whole Hog: Busted Knuckle BBQ
🍖 Ribs: Swine Life BBQ
🏅 Best Local Team: Mean Genes Cooking Team
👨🍳 Kid’s Cook Off Winners:
• Tripp Carr – Beef & Chicken
• Bodie Fair – Chicken
• Wyatt Judd – Beef & Dessert
👑 Grand Champions: Woods Custom Cookers
The competition was fierce, the flavors were top-notch, and every team brought their best to Atoka. We are so proud of all who competed and grateful to everyone who came out to support, volunteer, and celebrate with us.
Already counting down to next year… 🔥🍖👀
Come join us as our District 9 Commissioners bring a severe weather community update to the town.
🚰 Hydrant Flushing Underway Today 🚰
We will be conducting fire hydrant flushing throughout the town today. This routine maintenance helps ensure our water system stays clean, safe, and operating at its best.
Residents in areas where flushing is taking place may notice temporary discoloration in their water or a slight drop in pressure. If this occurs, simply run cold water for a few minutes until it clears.
We appreciate your patience as our crews work to maintain the quality and reliability of our water system!
We will be conducting fire hydrant flushing throughout the town today. This routine maintenance helps ensure our water system stays clean, safe, and operating at its best.
Residents in areas where flushing is taking place may notice temporary discoloration in their water or a slight drop in pressure. If this occurs, simply run cold water for a few minutes until it clears.
We appreciate your patience as our crews work to maintain the quality and reliability of our water system!
The Mayor’s Pie Challenge brought the heat (and the sweet!) this year, with Mayor Barry Akin and a panel of neighboring mayors taking on the tough job of judging.
From classic flavors to creative twists, the entries did not disappoint. Our judges had their work cut out for them, carefully tasting and scoring each pie… and by all accounts, it was a deliciously difficult task!
A big thank you to our visiting mayors for serving as judges and to everyone who participated and made the challenge such a fun and flavorful part of the event. Safe to say, this competition was a sweet success! 😄
From classic flavors to creative twists, the entries did not disappoint. Our judges had their work cut out for them, carefully tasting and scoring each pie… and by all accounts, it was a deliciously difficult task!
A big thank you to our visiting mayors for serving as judges and to everyone who participated and made the challenge such a fun and flavorful part of the event. Safe to say, this competition was a sweet success! 😄
BBQ Fest wasn’t just about the competition—it was about the experience our teams created all weekend long. 🔥
Each team brought their own personality to the event, with impressive setups, creative displays, and a whole lot of pride in what they do. Walking through the cook sites was truly something to see.
Friday night featured live music from Spectrum, setting the perfect atmosphere, and the Hollywood Showliners brought an extra spark with a lively warm-up dance before awards that got the crowd energized.
With food trucks on site and something happening around every corner, it was a weekend full of fun, flavor, and community.
Each team brought their own personality to the event, with impressive setups, creative displays, and a whole lot of pride in what they do. Walking through the cook sites was truly something to see.
Friday night featured live music from Spectrum, setting the perfect atmosphere, and the Hollywood Showliners brought an extra spark with a lively warm-up dance before awards that got the crowd energized.
With food trucks on site and something happening around every corner, it was a weekend full of fun, flavor, and community.
HONORING LEADERSHIP & SERVICE!
Last night, the Town of Atoka proudly recognized Anthony W. Rudolph, Chief of Police for the Atoka Police Department, for five years of dedicated service to our community.
Since taking the helm, Chief Rudolph has led with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.
His leadership has strengthened the department, enhanced community partnerships, and ensured that the citizens of Atoka receive the highest level of service and protection.
From building a culture of excellence within the department to fostering trust throughout the community, Chief Rudolph’s impact is evident every day.
Please join us in congratulating Chief Rudolph on this milestone!
Last night, the Town of Atoka proudly recognized Anthony W. Rudolph, Chief of Police for the Atoka Police Department, for five years of dedicated service to our community.
Since taking the helm, Chief Rudolph has led with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.
His leadership has strengthened the department, enhanced community partnerships, and ensured that the citizens of Atoka receive the highest level of service and protection.
From building a culture of excellence within the department to fostering trust throughout the community, Chief Rudolph’s impact is evident every day.
Please join us in congratulating Chief Rudolph on this milestone!
In recognition of National EMT and Paramedic Appreciation Day, the Atoka Fire Department is proud to have a dedicated team of highly trained medical responders serving our community every day.
From EMTs to AEMTs to Paramedics, our personnel are equipped to provide life-saving care when it matters most, and that matters often. The majority of the calls our department responds to are medical in nature, meaning they are on the front lines of caring for our residents day in and day out.
Whether it’s a late-night emergency, a critical situation, or someone simply needing help, this team shows up with professionalism, compassion, and skill every single time.
💙 These aren’t just responders, they’re your neighbors, your friends, and the people you can count on when you need help the most.
We’re proud of each of them and the service they provide to the Town of Atoka every single day.
Paramedics:
⭐ Captain Andrew Stroud
⭐ Captain Bradley Craig
⭐ Lieutenant Ed Jeter
⭐ FF Caden Bingham
Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs):
🔷 Chief Bill Scott
🔷 Captain Devin Kinney
🔷 Lieutenant Dylan Sykes
🔷 Lieutenant Donny Phillips
🔷 FF Tony Cavallo
🔷 FF Hayden Kirkdoffer
🔷 FF Dean Edgar
🔷 FF Hunter Elmore
🔷 FF Ethan Pannell
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs):
⚪ FF William Carpenter
⚪ FF Joey Greene
⚪ FF Adam Long
⚪ FF Anthony Butler
From EMTs to AEMTs to Paramedics, our personnel are equipped to provide life-saving care when it matters most, and that matters often. The majority of the calls our department responds to are medical in nature, meaning they are on the front lines of caring for our residents day in and day out.
Whether it’s a late-night emergency, a critical situation, or someone simply needing help, this team shows up with professionalism, compassion, and skill every single time.
💙 These aren’t just responders, they’re your neighbors, your friends, and the people you can count on when you need help the most.
We’re proud of each of them and the service they provide to the Town of Atoka every single day.
Paramedics:
⭐ Captain Andrew Stroud
⭐ Captain Bradley Craig
⭐ Lieutenant Ed Jeter
⭐ FF Caden Bingham
Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs):
🔷 Chief Bill Scott
🔷 Captain Devin Kinney
🔷 Lieutenant Dylan Sykes
🔷 Lieutenant Donny Phillips
🔷 FF Tony Cavallo
🔷 FF Hayden Kirkdoffer
🔷 FF Dean Edgar
🔷 FF Hunter Elmore
🔷 FF Ethan Pannell
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs):
⚪ FF William Carpenter
⚪ FF Joey Greene
⚪ FF Adam Long
⚪ FF Anthony Butler
We’re still recovering from an awesome BBQ Fest weekend, and what a time it was!
Over the next few days, we’ll be sharing photos of all the fun, starting with our Sponsor Dinner on Thursday night.
A huge THANK YOU to our incredible sponsors who helped make this event such a success. We couldn’t do it without your support! 👏
Stay tuned… more BBQ Fest memories coming your way! 📸
Over the next few days, we’ll be sharing photos of all the fun, starting with our Sponsor Dinner on Thursday night.
A huge THANK YOU to our incredible sponsors who helped make this event such a success. We couldn’t do it without your support! 👏
Stay tuned… more BBQ Fest memories coming your way! 📸
The Atoka Fire Department is hosting an upcoming CPR Class this May—and you won’t want to miss it!
Whether it’s for your family, your workplace, or just peace of mind, learning CPR is a skill that can truly save a life.
⚠️ Only 25 spots are available, so don’t wait to sign up!
📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer or register here:
👉 https://forms.gle/VHk6NHFU2WDqEJrM6
Be prepared. Be confident. Be the reason someone gets a second chance. 💙
Whether it’s for your family, your workplace, or just peace of mind, learning CPR is a skill that can truly save a life.
⚠️ Only 25 spots are available, so don’t wait to sign up!
📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer or register here:
👉 https://forms.gle/VHk6NHFU2WDqEJrM6
Be prepared. Be confident. Be the reason someone gets a second chance. 💙
👀 Your Town at Work is LIVE!
It was a busy week in Atoka last week — from BBQ Fest prep in full swing to major training, teamwork across departments, and some big moments worth celebrating.
🔥 Recruits pushing through the fire academy
🏆 A first-ever Police Awards Ceremony
🌳 A special dedication at Adkison Park
🚧 Progress on key infrastructure projects
And that’s just the start…
👉 Check out the full update in the News Section: www.atokatn.gov
#YourTownAtWork #townofatokatn
It was a busy week in Atoka last week — from BBQ Fest prep in full swing to major training, teamwork across departments, and some big moments worth celebrating.
🔥 Recruits pushing through the fire academy
🏆 A first-ever Police Awards Ceremony
🌳 A special dedication at Adkison Park
🚧 Progress on key infrastructure projects
And that’s just the start…
👉 Check out the full update in the News Section: www.atokatn.gov
#YourTownAtWork #townofatokatn
The Atoka Fire Department is hosting the Tennessee Firemen’s Association SCBA Search & Rescue Training Trailer over the next few weeks, giving our firefighters the opportunity to sharpen critical lifesaving skills right here at home.
This specialized trailer simulates real fireground conditions where firefighters must navigate tight, dark, and disorienting spaces while wearing full protective gear and breathing air through their Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). The training focuses on search and rescue techniques, firefighter survival, and teamwork, which are skills that are essential when seconds count inside a structure fire.
By bringing this training resource to Atoka, our firefighters are able to practice realistic scenarios in a controlled environment, helping ensure they are prepared for the toughest situations they may face while protecting our community.
This specialized trailer simulates real fireground conditions where firefighters must navigate tight, dark, and disorienting spaces while wearing full protective gear and breathing air through their Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). The training focuses on search and rescue techniques, firefighter survival, and teamwork, which are skills that are essential when seconds count inside a structure fire.
By bringing this training resource to Atoka, our firefighters are able to practice realistic scenarios in a controlled environment, helping ensure they are prepared for the toughest situations they may face while protecting our community.
Last night, the Town of Atoka was proud to dedicate the new Train Playground at Adkison Park, which was led by William Russell as part of his Eagle Scout service project.
William took the lead in planning, organizing, and coordinating volunteers to bring this unique playground feature to life for our community. He also worked closely with the Town of Atoka Parks & Recreation Department to coordinate the project and dedication event, as well as CLS Outdoor Services, who installed the playground equipment.
The train playground was dedicated in honor of Mr. Brown, who had a deep love for trains and was the founder of the Atoka Railroad Adventure. It is a fitting tribute that celebrates both his passion and the joy that trains have brought to so many in our community.
Many thanks to everyone who came together and made this project possible. Thanks to all the efforts, families will have a fun new place to play and enjoy for years to come.
Next time you’re at Adkison Park, be sure to stop by and check out the new train playground! 🚂🌳
William took the lead in planning, organizing, and coordinating volunteers to bring this unique playground feature to life for our community. He also worked closely with the Town of Atoka Parks & Recreation Department to coordinate the project and dedication event, as well as CLS Outdoor Services, who installed the playground equipment.
The train playground was dedicated in honor of Mr. Brown, who had a deep love for trains and was the founder of the Atoka Railroad Adventure. It is a fitting tribute that celebrates both his passion and the joy that trains have brought to so many in our community.
Many thanks to everyone who came together and made this project possible. Thanks to all the efforts, families will have a fun new place to play and enjoy for years to come.
Next time you’re at Adkison Park, be sure to stop by and check out the new train playground! 🚂🌳
The noon tornado siren testing is canceled today due to inclement weather.
The AFD recently hosted a Neonatal Resuscitation class led by Cheyenne Cooper, RN, from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. The training was made available to all departments throughout Tipton County.
Historically, this training has been reserved for critical care and flight paramedics. Through a state grant, UT is now expanding access to EMS and Fire Departments across Tennessee to enhance outcomes for the tiniest and most vulnerable Tennessee residents. Neonatal calls are low-frequency but extremely high-stress events for first responders, making this training especially valuable.
The course covered neonatal airway management, medication calculations, CPR, thermoregulation, and general care of micro-preterm newborns. We trained using a high-fidelity simulation infant that accurately tracked the interventions performed. We also reviewed care for term newborns and conducted hands-on practice.
Some personnel attended while on duty, while others volunteered their time on their day off to earn continuing education credits toward their EMT and paramedic licensure, demonstrating a strong commitment to professional development and improving patient care.
Historically, this training has been reserved for critical care and flight paramedics. Through a state grant, UT is now expanding access to EMS and Fire Departments across Tennessee to enhance outcomes for the tiniest and most vulnerable Tennessee residents. Neonatal calls are low-frequency but extremely high-stress events for first responders, making this training especially valuable.
The course covered neonatal airway management, medication calculations, CPR, thermoregulation, and general care of micro-preterm newborns. We trained using a high-fidelity simulation infant that accurately tracked the interventions performed. We also reviewed care for term newborns and conducted hands-on practice.
Some personnel attended while on duty, while others volunteered their time on their day off to earn continuing education credits toward their EMT and paramedic licensure, demonstrating a strong commitment to professional development and improving patient care.
🚰 Hydrant Flushing Begins Tomorrow 🚰
The Town of Atoka Water Department will begin routine hydrant flushing starting tomorrow as part of our regular system maintenance. This important process helps keep our water system clean, ensures hydrants are working properly, and maintains high water quality throughout the community.
During flushing, residents in nearby areas may notice:
• Temporary drops in water pressure
• Slight discoloration in water
If you experience discoloration, simply let your cold water run for a few minutes until it clears.
💧 We will post updates as crews move through different areas of town, so keep an eye on our page for the latest information.
Thank you for your patience as we work to keep Atoka’s water system running smoothly!
The Town of Atoka Water Department will begin routine hydrant flushing starting tomorrow as part of our regular system maintenance. This important process helps keep our water system clean, ensures hydrants are working properly, and maintains high water quality throughout the community.
During flushing, residents in nearby areas may notice:
• Temporary drops in water pressure
• Slight discoloration in water
If you experience discoloration, simply let your cold water run for a few minutes until it clears.
💧 We will post updates as crews move through different areas of town, so keep an eye on our page for the latest information.
Thank you for your patience as we work to keep Atoka’s water system running smoothly!
Atoka Town Hall offices will be closed Friday, April 3rd, in observance of Good Friday.
There will be no changes to the trash schedule.
There will be no changes to the trash schedule.
Your Town at Work is out!
It’s been another busy week across the Town of Atoka! From firefighter hiring and training, to parks getting ready for spring sports, to Public Works evaluating roads and tackling infrastructure projects — there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to keep our town moving forward.
You’ll also find updates on planning activity around the roundabout, police training, and early work on the FY27 budget.
Take a few minutes to see what your town team has been working on this week. Look under News on the website @ atokatn.gov
#yourtownatwork #townofatokatn
It’s been another busy week across the Town of Atoka! From firefighter hiring and training, to parks getting ready for spring sports, to Public Works evaluating roads and tackling infrastructure projects — there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to keep our town moving forward.
You’ll also find updates on planning activity around the roundabout, police training, and early work on the FY27 budget.
Take a few minutes to see what your town team has been working on this week. Look under News on the website @ atokatn.gov
#yourtownatwork #townofatokatn
The Atoka Fire Department command staff looked especially sharp this week as they conducted interviews with candidates hoping to join the department. From reviewing qualifications to evaluating leadership and teamwork, the process helps ensure that Atoka continues to bring in firefighters who are ready to serve the community with professionalism and dedication.
Selecting the right people to join the team is an important step in keeping our department strong and prepared to protect the Town of Atoka. We appreciate the time and effort our command staff put into making sure the next generation of firefighters meets the high standards our community expects.
All in all, a sharp-looking crew working to build an even stronger department. Stay tuned, we’re just getting started! 👨🚒 🔥
Selecting the right people to join the team is an important step in keeping our department strong and prepared to protect the Town of Atoka. We appreciate the time and effort our command staff put into making sure the next generation of firefighters meets the high standards our community expects.
All in all, a sharp-looking crew working to build an even stronger department. Stay tuned, we’re just getting started! 👨🚒 🔥
🌳 A Big Thank You, Atoka — Tennessee Tree Day Was a Hit! 🌳
What a fantastic turnout this past weekend for Tennessee Tree Day at Adkison Park! Thanks to the Town of Atoka Parks & Recreation Department and the hardworking Scouts from Atoka Troop 60, this year’s event was a huge success.
By 12:00 noon the event was officially SOLD OUT, with hundreds of free trees finding new homes across our community! Residents stopped by to pick up trees like Pecan, River Birch, Elderberry, Eastern Redbud, Northern Red Oak, and Eastern White Pine — all helping make Atoka a little greener for years to come. 🌱
A special shoutout to Troop 60, who hosted the event and kept everyone fueled with hot dog lunches, meat sticks, and birdhouses available for purchase in support of the Boy Scouts.
Thank you to everyone who came out, grabbed a tree, and helped invest in the future of Atoka’s parks, yards, and green spaces. We love seeing our community grow… one tree at a time! 🌳💚
What a fantastic turnout this past weekend for Tennessee Tree Day at Adkison Park! Thanks to the Town of Atoka Parks & Recreation Department and the hardworking Scouts from Atoka Troop 60, this year’s event was a huge success.
By 12:00 noon the event was officially SOLD OUT, with hundreds of free trees finding new homes across our community! Residents stopped by to pick up trees like Pecan, River Birch, Elderberry, Eastern Redbud, Northern Red Oak, and Eastern White Pine — all helping make Atoka a little greener for years to come. 🌱
A special shoutout to Troop 60, who hosted the event and kept everyone fueled with hot dog lunches, meat sticks, and birdhouses available for purchase in support of the Boy Scouts.
Thank you to everyone who came out, grabbed a tree, and helped invest in the future of Atoka’s parks, yards, and green spaces. We love seeing our community grow… one tree at a time! 🌳💚
