Vintage holiday decorations are back in style and, for many households, they’re more than sentimental keepsakes. A University of Tennessee Extension consumer economist says they can represent a chance to save money, make money and make meaningful memories this holiday season.

Across the country, shoppers are willing to pay premium prices for classic Christmas décor that reminds them of childhood holidays. Those boxes of ornaments in Grandma’s attic could hold real value both emotional and financial.

“Collectors are currently seeking Shiny Brite glass ornaments, ceramic Christmas trees, aluminum tinsel trees and mid-century holiday figurines. Some of these items, especially if they’re in good condition or still in their original boxes, can sell for significant amounts online,” says Christopher Sneed, associate professor and consumer economics specialist in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences.

The value of a vintage decoration depends on three key factors:

· Condition. Chips, cracks, or fading lower the price, while well-preserved pieces fetch more.

· Rarity. Limited-edition or unusual designs often sell quickly.

· Completeness. Full sets, especially with original packaging, are more desirable to collectors.

If you’re interested in selling, start by researching current market prices. Online auction platforms, resale sites, and specialized social media groups are good places to learn the price of similar items. These collector groups are an excellent educational resource and can also help you identify authentic pieces and avoid scams.

Buying new holiday décor can quickly add up. Shopping vintage or reusing family decorations can help you decorate beautifully on a budget. Estate sales, thrift stores and flea markets often carry affordable vintage decorations. With a little creativity, older pieces can be refreshed or repurposed for modern displays.

Reusing decorations year after year also supports sustainable living by reducing waste and consumer demand for new products. That’s good for both your wallet and the environment.

When purchasing some items consumers might need to carefully consider use. For example, many vintage ornaments were produced using materials such as lead-based paint, fragile glass or mercury coatings that can pose potential health hazards in today’s homes. Consumers should handle these pieces with care, keeping them away from children. They should avoid any items that show signs of deterioration, flaking finishes or breakage.

It’s important to know what you’re buying or selling. Generally, antiques are items that are more than 100 years old, while vintage refers to pieces that are typically 20 to 40 years old and reflect the trends of their era. Both can hold value, but vintage items tend to appeal more to nostalgic consumers looking to recreate mid-century or retro holiday looks.

While there’s value in selling and saving, the real payoff often comes from the memories these items bring back. A slightly frayed stocking from childhood or Grandma’s old holiday towel set might not sell for much, but their sentimental worth could be priceless.

This holiday season, consider taking inventory of your decorations. Decide which pieces to keep for tradition, which to sell for profit, and which might be reimagined for new uses. Whether you’re decorating, downsizing or decluttering, vintage holiday treasures can offer financial opportunity and emotional connection—rare gifts that truly keep on giving.

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is comprised of the Herbert College of Agriculture, UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch and UT Extension. Through its land-grant mission of teaching, research and outreach, the Institute touches lives and provides Real. Life. Solutions. to Tennesseans and beyond. utia.tennessee.edu.

Fiesta Sweet Potato Soup

1 package of Polish Sausage Link, chopped 1 can Rotel (hot or adjust to taste)

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 large onion, chopped

1 small pepper, diced Toppings:

2 tablespoons olive oil Sour cream

2 teaspoons Ground Cumin Green onions, thinly sliced

2 cans reduce sodium chicken broth

In a large saucepan sauté sausage, potatoes, onion and pepper in olive oil until tender. Add Ground Cumin and cook 1 minute longer. Stir in broth, Rotel and beans and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are done. Garnish with sour cream and green onions. Note: I add some crushed red peppers to the first part of the recipe when sauteing to add more spice. Submitted by: Velva Gray, Elmwood/Chestnut Mound FCE Club

Highpoint Health Behavioral Health – Riverview with Ascension Saint Thomas is urging community members to pay close attention to persistent changes in mood, energy, and sleep patterns as the winter season brings shorter days and reduced sunlight. While many experience general “winter blues,” these symptoms can indicate Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression linked to seasonal changes.

As the days get shorter, decreased sun exposure and lower physical activity can disrupt the body’s internal chemistry and sleep cycles. Highpoint Health Behavioral Health recognizes that many people initially attribute these feelings to everyday stress, such as managing work, raising children, or the pressures of the upcoming holidays. However, feelings of prolonged sadness, gloominess, or being “in a funk” may signal the need for professional support.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is clinically characterized by symptoms that include:

· Persistent sadness, gloomy outlook, or empty feelings.

· Feelings of hopelessness, irritability, or worthlessness.

· Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities.

· Feeling tired with low energy and difficulty concentrating.

Researchers believe that SAD may be linked to a chemical imbalance caused by the change in light exposure or insufficient Vitamin D.

Proactive Steps and Treatment Options

The primary treatment for SAD often involves light therapy, which is designed to replace the natural sunshine that is less prevalent during the fall and winter months. Proactively, you can spend 10–15 minutes outside daily to stimulate serotonin and synthesize Vitamin D.

Highpoint Health Behavioral Health staff also emphasizes simple, effective lifestyle adjustments:

“Preparation is key when managing seasonal changes,” says Nancy Moore, Program Director at Highpoint Health Behavioral Health – Riverview. “We encourage residents to focus on daily steps like getting adequate exercise, staying hydrated, maintaining consistent sleep, and actively practicing stress reduction techniques like meditation. Critically, connecting with your support system and making time for loved ones can dramatically improve energy levels and mood stability throughout the colder months.”

Knowing one’s tendency to experience SAD and preparing for it can significantly reduce the impact of the condition.

Accessing Care Close to Home

Knowing your tendency to experience SAD and preparing for it can significantly reduce the impact of the condition. For those requiring professional assistance, Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas provides compassionate, comprehensive mental health services close to home, including emergency stabilization and specialized geriatric care. This includes Geriatric Inpatient Services and Senior Life Solutions—an outpatient program designed specifically for adults ages 55 and older. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent symptoms of seasonal depression, Highpoint Health Behavioral Health – Riverview is available to offer assistance 24/7. To learn more or to speak with a professional, call the Resource Line at 615-735-5211 or visit HighpointHealthSystem.com.

About Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas

Highpoint Health is a regional health system dedicated to making communities healthier in Middle Tennessee. It is composed of Highpoint Health – Sumner, a 167-bed hospital in Gallatin; the Highpoint Health – Sumner Station campus in Gallatin; Highpoint Health – Riverview, a 35-bed critical access hospital in Carthage; Highpoint Health – Trousdale, a 25-bed critical access hospital in Hartsville; and in March 2025, Highpoint Health – Winchester and Sewanee (jointly 198 acute and skilled care beds) joined the system as well. Highpoint Health is operated as part of a joint venture between Lifepoint Health and Ascension Saint Thomas. This collaboration brings together the organizations’ clinical excellence, best practices, and talented caregivers to collaborate in new ways that improve access to high quality clinical programs and specialty care for patients and communities. To learn more, visit HighpointHealthSystem.com.

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has received positive chronic wasting disease (CWD) test results in hunter-harvested deer in Dickson and Williamson counties, the first positive CWD case for both.

Because these counties are not within or immediately adjacent to the current CWD Management Zone, there will be no changes to transportation or feeding regulations at this time. However, hunters are now eligible for the Earn-a-Buck Program. Hunters can earn additional bucks by harvesting antlerless deer in Dickson and Williamson counties and submitting them for testing. Hunters who have already submitted antlerless deer for testing this fall will be provided with an earned buck and notified via email.

Wildlife officials encourage hunters to continue hunting and submit their deer for testing. TWRA will be increasing CWD sampling and monitoring in these counties in response to the presence of CWD. Hunter’s participation in CWD testing is critical for the continued surveillance and monitoring of CWD throughout the state. Hunters can access CWD testing through participating taxidermists and meat processors or by using drop-off freezers.

CWD is a progressive, fatal disease of the nervous system of cervids, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, and moose. The agency partners with certified laboratories to test samples, and TWRA has already submitted approximately 9,186 samples for testing this hunting season. For more information on CWD and current regulations, visit CWDinTN.org. Select “Drop off and Results” for freezer locations, participating processors and taxidermists, and CWD test results.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.

Bill Woodard, Director of Smith County Chamber of Commerce presents Chamber Membership plaque to Lindsey and Skyler Brock at ReRooted Consign

A new shopping destination is quickly gaining attention in Smith County. ReRooted Consign, a sister-run consignment boutique located at 74 Dixon Springs Circle, officially opened its doors in November and is already making an impact with its curated, affordable, and sustainable approach to fashion.

Owned and operated by sisters, Lindsey & Skyler Brock, ReRooted Consign offers a carefully selected inventory of top-pick, name-brand apparel for women, men, teens, and children. Shoppers can browse everything from everyday wardrobe staples to premium labels, including activewear, denim, outerwear, shoes, and accessories. Popular brands such as Lululemon, Free People, Gymshark, Kancan, and American Eagle can often be found on the racks—at prices significantly lower than traditional retail.

“We wanted to create a place where families could shop high-quality, name-brand clothing without the high price tags,” the owners shared. “Growing up in a small town, this was something we always wished we had locally.”

Beyond affordability, ReRooted Consign focuses on delivering a welcoming, boutique-style shopping experience. The store is clean, well-organized, and refreshed daily with new inventory, making every visit feel like a treasure hunt. Customers are encouraged to explore new styles in a relaxed, stress-free environment—without boutique prices.

Sustainability is at the heart of the business. By giving clothing a second life, ReRooted Consign helps reduce waste while supporting local families and the community. The sisters behind the store are passionate about making fashion accessible, fun, and environmentally conscious for everyone who walks through their doors.

ReRooted Consign is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The best way to connect with the store is through Facebook or Instagram, or by email.

Business Information:
74 Dixon Springs Circle, Dixon Springs, TN 37057
615-934-5280
Rerootedconsign@gmail.com
www.rerootedconsign.com

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or the whole family, ReRooted Consign makes it easy and fun to find quality, name-brand fashion at unbeatable prices, all while supporting a local, family-run business.

Amy Waggoner with her winning gingerbread barn

Congratulations to Amy Waggoner, winner of the Carthage Junction Depot’s second annual Gingerbread house competition! Her winning entry was a beautifully detailed replica of the Agee Doubletree Farm barn on Main Street in Gordonsville. A well deserved win for an amazing entry. Amy took great care to include details down to the wood grain in the planks as well as cows resting in the snow.

It is easy to overspend during the holidays. Between gifts, potlucks, travel expenses, and decorations, your credit card bill may have been piling up, so what do you do now?

Michigan State University suggests the following steps to reduce your credit card debt:
1. Assess your situation by finding out exactly what you owe on each credit card.
2. Make a list of your credit cards and include the balance on each card, the interest rate, and if there are any annual fees on the cards. Make the decision to not add additional debt
to your credit card.
3. Calculate your monthly income.
4. Determine how much your monthly bills will be, including rent or mortgages, utility payments, credit card bills, insurance payments, cell phone, and Internet bills.
5. Determine how much you spend on food, medication, etc.
6. After you have determined how much money is available to spend every month and where you are currently spending your money, you can decide if you have extra money to
put on your credit card balances.
7. If you have more than one credit card bill, start reducing your balance one credit card at a time. Start with the highest balance or the highest interest rate and pay a fixed amount
extra each month, such as $70.00. You can also start with the card with the lowest balance each month to reduce the number of cards you are paying each month.
8. Continue to make the minimum payment on all of your other cards.

Many times there are better deals on merchandise after the holidays. If you do not have the
money for it, do not be tempted to spend more just because you think you will save money. Here
are some additional tips to limit your credit card damage:
• Limit eating out
• Try to find a side job, such as tutoring or coaching
• Limit social media as advertisements come into play and may be tempting
• Use cash or your debit card for expenses
• Start planning for next holiday season
For more information, check out
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/how_to_get_rid_of_credit_card_debt.
Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies
1 cup white sugar
1 cup white corn syrup
¼ cup butter
1 cup peanut butter
6 cups cornflakes
In a large saucepan, bring sugar and syrup to a boil. Remove from heat and add butter and peanut
butter. Melt together and addcornflakes. Mix until all stick together. Spoon on wax paper.
Velva Gray, Elmwood/Chestnut Mound FCE Club

tnAchieves is celebrating after surpassing its mentor recruitment goal! More than 5,398 volunteers raised their hands to support students in 2026 as they take their next steps.

“We are so grateful for the thousands of volunteers who have stepped up and answered the call to serve students,” shared tnAchieves Vice President of Workforce Tyler Ford. “In surpassing the goal of recruiting 5,000 volunteer mentors, tnAchieves is poised to provide meaningful local support to students across the state as they transition from high school to college and, ultimately, a gainful career. Tennessee once again showed why we are nicknamed The Volunteer State.”

Volunteer mentors had a choice this year between the Access Mentorship program and the new Workforce Mentorship program. Access Mentors play an important role in helping students transition from high school to college. The Workforce Mentor program is aimed at bridging the gap between college
graduation and beginning a career.

“tnAchieves exists to help students reach their goals and take their next steps,” said tnAchieves Director of Mentors Baylor Atkins. “We are best able to do that by ensuring students have wraparound supports designed to make sure students achieve success. This isn’t possible without mentors who live and work in
the same communities as the students they serve.”

With 84.7 percent of tnAchieves graduates living and working in the state, supporting tnAchieves students as they transition to their next phase of life supports Tennessee’s thriving economy. tnAchieves is now working to get these mentors trained and paired with the students they will work with in 2026.

To learn more about the tnAchieves Mentor Program, visit http://www.tnAchieves.org/mentors. tnAchieves is a 501©3 nonprofit that has been providing scholarships with mentor support since 2008. Any interview requests or questions can be directed to Rebecca Franklin at rebecca@tnAchieves.org or
(865) 748-7767

COOKEVILLE, TN—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) announced that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has approved full federal funding for the establishment of the new Upper Cumberland State Veterans Cemetery in White County — less than a month after Rep. Rose led a letter urging the VA to prioritize the project.