Congressman John Rose Visits Those Hit Hardest by Government Shutdown
Smith County Republican Party Announces Annual Christmas Celebration
Please register by visiting: https://forms.office.com/r/YeFdyrMR2n.
Date: Monday, December 2, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Smith County Chamber of Commerce
RSVP: https://forms.office.com/r/YeFdyrMR2n
Lunch & Learn – Introduction to Composting
Do you have leaves falling all around your yard? Do you have any leftover food that you are trying to find a use for? Composting might be the answer you are looking for! On Monday, November 17th, UT/TSU Smith County Extension is holding a Lunch & Learn titled, “Introduction to Composting.” We will learn how to use the correct practices and the correct materials to compost the right way! This Lunch & Learn will be held at the Smith County Ag Center from 12-1 pm.
The cost is $5 and that isjust to cover your meal! Make sure to call the UT/TSU Smith County Extension Office at 615-735-2900 to sign up! We hope to see you there!
Submitted by William Herber – UT Extension
Food for Thought – Maintain Don’t Gain
If you are like me, you love the holiday season – time with family and friends, holiday shopping, seasonal decorations, and eating. The holiday season provides an abundance of opportunities for overindulgence.
Research suggests the average American gains at least one pound over the holiday season. Unfortunately, researchers at the National Institutes of Health report most people never lose that extra pound of weight, so it accumulates year after year. Later in life, the extra weight may be a major contributor to obesity and the diseases associated with it.
Join me and UT-TSU Extension as we embark on a healthy holiday journey, the Maintain, Don’t Gain Healthy Holiday Challenge. This is a free program that lasts seven weeks. It begins November 23, 2025 and ends January 10, 2026. The challenge offers tips about how you can prevent weight gain and stay fit during the busy holiday season. Each week during the seven-week challenge, you will receive one email message that will help you to survive and thrive in spite of all the temptations to overeat and be inactive. At the end of the seven-weeks, you will be asked to complete a short survey. You don’t reveal your weight, just whether you maintained – gained or lost.
The holiday season is a minefield of overeating opportunities. Add the hectic festivities to your calendar, and exercise takes a backseat. Don’t let this combination allow you to gain weight. This challenge is for anyone wanting encouragement and accountability through the season….but still enjoy the food and fellowship.
Participants also get free access to Smith County Fitness Center during the challenge for signing up. The free opportunities conclude at the end of the program.
Register for the Maintain, Don’t Gain Healthy Holiday Challenge now at https://tiny.utk.edu/MDG25.
For more information on free fitness opportunities associated with the Maintain, Don’t Gain Healthy Holiday Challenge, contact Mary Draper, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension agent for UT-TSU Extension in Smith County. Mary may be reached at mparke33@utk.edu or 615-735-2900.
Fruit Casserole
1 15. 25 oz can slice or chunk pineapple
1 15.25 oz can peach halves or slices
1 15.25 oz can pear halves
1 15.25 oz can apricot halves
½ cup butter or margarine
2 tablespoons flour
½ cup firmly packed brown sugar
¾ to 1 cup orange juice
Drain fruit, arrange in layers in a 2-quart casserole dish, set aside. Melt butter or margarine in sauce pan over low heat, add flour and sugar stirring until smooth. Gradually add orange juice. Cook over low heat stirring constantly until thickened. Pour over fruit, cover and chill overnight. Let come to room temperature. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until bubbly. 10 servings.
Substitute or add: spiced apple rings, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries.
Submitted by: Faye Reece, Carthage FCE Club
October 2025 Meeting of the Carthage City Council
The Carthage City Council held its monthly meeting on October 2, 2025. Several items were discussed. Watch the full meeting below
Thanks to Teresa’s Gifts for sponsoring Smith County Insider’s live broadcast of this meeting.
Subscribe to Smith County Insider’s YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on meeting coverage, business spotlights, video features, and more!
The Carthage City Council generally meets at 6:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at Carthage City Hall, located at 314 Spring Street in Carthage, Tennessee – 37030.
All meetings are open to the public and streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/smithcountyinsider/.
October 2025 Meeting of the Smith County Commission
The Smith County Commission held its meeting on the evening of Monday, October 20, 2025
You can watch the full meeting below.
Thanks to Powell & Meadows Insurance Agency for sponsoring the live broadcast of this meeting.
Subscribe to Smith County Insider’s YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on meeting coverage, business spotlights, video features, and more!
Commission meetings are held in the Smith County Agricultural Center, 159 Ag Center Lane, Carthage, TN.
All meetings are open to the public and are streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/smithcountyinsider/.
October 2025 Meeting of the Smith County Board of Education
The Smith County Board of Education met at 5:00 p.m. on October16, 2025
The live broadcast of this meeting is sponsored by Teresa’s Gifts.
Subscribe to Smith County Insider’s YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on meeting coverage, business spotlights, video features, and more!
The Smith County School Board meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. at the Smith County Board of Education, located at 126 Smith County Middle School Lane in Carthage, Tennessee.
All meetings are open to the public and streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/smithcountyinsider/.
You can watch the full meeting below.
BBB of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky Announces 2026 Students of Integrity Scholarships
Ten (10) high school seniors will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Two recipients will be chosen from each of the following regions served by BBB:
- Tenn-Tucky: Christian*, Logan*, Todd*, Trigg*, Houston, Montgomery, and Stewart counties
- Central Tennessee: Bedford, Cannon, Coffee, Franklin, Moore, Rutherford, and Warren counties
- Upper Cumberland: Clay, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, White, and Wilson counties
- Williamson: Marshall, Williamson, and Maury counties
- Greater Nashville: Allen*, Monroe*, Simpson*, Cheatham, Davids
- on, Dickson, Giles, Hickman, Humphreys, Lawrence, Lewis, Lincoln, Perry, Robertson, and Wayne counties
(*Counties marked with an asterisk are in Kentucky.)
Five (5) high school seniors planning to attend a trade or technical school will also be awarded $1,000 each. Recipients will be selected from across Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky.
- Be a high school senior graduating in 2026
- Attend a school within the BBB Middle TN & Southern KY service area
- Hold a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Plan to attend an accredited college, university, or trade school
- A 500-word essay discussing an ethical issue and what it taught them
- Documentation of leadership, community service, and academic achievements
- Two letters of recommendation (one academic, one non-academic)
- A copy of their transcript
Willette Volunteer Fire Department to Host 3rd Annual Benefit Coon Hunt for Jude’s Hallelujah Story
The Willette Volunteer Fire Department in Red Boiling Springs, TN, will host the 3rd Annual Benefit Coon Hunt for Jude’s Hallelujah Story on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The event aims to raise funds for young Jude Thayer McCaleb, who was diagnosed with the rare genetic disorder MPS1 three years ago, following years of testing, specialists’ visits, and prayers.
The hunt will feature a $500 first-place prize, with a $50 entry fee per cast. Participants can increase their chances by bringing in a coon, which earns them an additional entry for the cash prize. Sign-up runs from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., and the hunt deadline is set for 11 p.m. Winners must be present to claim their prizes.
All proceeds from the event will go directly to support Jude’s ongoing medical journey. His treatment includes regular enzyme infusions at home and frequent visits to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. Funds raised will help the family cover expenses associated with his condition.
For more information, call 615-735-7817 or 615-735-7796.
Free Community Lunch Planned at Carthage Full Gospel Church
In response to the recent stoppage of SNAP benefits, Carthage Full Gospel Church is stepping up to help. The church will be hosting a free community lunch on Friday, November 8, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at 109 First Avenue, Carthage.
All are welcome to attend and share a meal together. The event aims to provide support and encouragement to local residents affected by the changes in SNAP benefits, while also fostering community connection.
Community Invited to Free 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Dinner
Everyone is invited to the 2nd Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Smith County Ag Center.
This free event is open to all neighbors, family, and friends, offering a chance to enjoy a delicious meal together and celebrate the season of gratitude. It’s a great opportunity to gather as a community, share good food, and spend time with friends both old and new.
No reservations are needed, and everyone is welcome. Come hungry, bring your loved ones, and join the Smith County community for a warm and festive evening at the Ag Center.
Carthage to Celebrate 226th Christmas on the Town Square with Hometown Parade & Festivities
The Town of Carthage invites you to gather for the annual Hometown Christmas Parade on Sunday, December 7th at 4:30 PM, marking the 226th Christmas since our founding. This beloved holiday tradition brings us together for an evening of music, lights, and cheer centered around the Historic Smith County Courthouse Square. The parade will begin in the parking area on Industrial Drive, proceed east on Highway 25, continuing south on Main Street to 2nd Avenue. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at the Historic Courthouse to greet children at North Pole Main Street – Historic Courthouse. Entertainment & Festivities
• 3:30 PM – Performances on courthouse steps, River City Dreamin and Carthage Dance Studio.
• 4:30 PM – Parade begins from Industrial Drive.
• 5:00 PM (approx.) – Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at the courthouse. (Visits Start Shortly)
• 5:15 PM (approx.) –tree-lighting ceremony Mayor Jeff Mason & Harvest Queen royalty.
• 5:25 PM (approx.) – The Smith County Playhouse presents a holiday performance. Parade float judging will award prizes of $100, $75, and $50, with winners announced during the evening.
Santa’s Visit Families will be assigned numbers upon check-in with Santa’s elf’s to ensure smooth and enjoyable visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. While waiting, attendees can enjoy live entertainment, music, and holiday treats around the courthouse square.
Float participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy as their entry fee, which will be donated for the children in our community. The rain date for the parade is Monday, December 8th at 6pm. In the event of inclement weather on both days, the parade will be canceled. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteer details, please contact the Carthage Christmas Parade Committee. 615-735-2093
Veterans of Smith County to Host 2025 Veterans Day Parade on Sunday, November 9th
The Veterans of Smith County invite everyone to come out and show their support during the 2025 Veterans Day Parade on Sunday, November 9th, in Carthage, Tennessee.
The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. and will feature local school bands, Scouting youth, emergency vehicles, antique cars, and area motorcycle groups. Parade line-up will start at 1:00 p.m. on Carmack Avenue, with the route proceeding down Main Street and ending at the Historic Smith County Courthouse.
Following the parade, a Veterans Ceremony will be held on the courthouse steps. This year’s Guest of Honor is SgtMaj Jon Henry, United States Marine Corps (Retired). A group photo of all veterans present will be taken after the ceremony.
All veterans are welcome and encouraged to participate in the parade. Those who own antique cars are invited to drive a veteran who may be unable to walk the route, while other veterans are welcome to ride on the parade wagons stationed on Carmack Avenue.
Come out and line the streets of Carthage in honor of the men and women who have served our country.
For those unable to attend in person, Smith County Insider will provide live coverage of the parade on our Facebook page.
Community Lakeshore Cleanup
The Friends of Cordell Hull Lake, in partnership with the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Keep Smith County Beautiful, and the Cordell Hull Lake Community, would like to invite you for an exciting lakeshore cleanup day. On November 15th, please lend a hand to help preserve the beauty and health of our beloved lake. Afterward, enjoy a complimentary lunch, where the FOCHL will present their accomplishments and plans for 2026. This public meeting and luncheon are open to anyone interested in the FOCHL or those who volunteer for the cleanup day. To register, please visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/shore-line-cleanup
FOCHL alongside with U.S Army Corps of Engineers, Keep Smith County Beautiful and the surrounding communities are coming together on November 15th for our 3rd annual Lake Shore Cleanup. “I encourage everyone to join in on making our lake cleaner. Bring a friend, gather the family, and invite your church or club. If you can’t attend the lakeshore cleanup, please take a moment on Veterans Day in your own community and pick up some trash from our roadways. Everything we see on the side of the road leads to our creeks and finds its way into our beautiful lake. Every small thing we do matters.”
As part of the necessary preparations for winter and spring rains, each October, the USACE lowers the water in Cordell Hull Lake, which often results in plastic bottles and trash washing up on the shores. The cleanup event will be held at Wildwood Resort & Marina in Granville at 9:00 a.m. Participants will be divided into groups to focus on specific coves in the area. You are welcome to bring your boat or kayak and aid from the water. Trash bags and gloves will be provided.
The Community Lakeshore Cleanup will begin at Wildwood Resort & Marina 7316 Granville Hwy, Granville, TN 38564
- 8:00 – Light Breakfast
- 9:00-12:00 – Lakeshore Cleanup
- 12:00-12:45- Luncheon and FOCHL Presentation & Annual Meeting.
To register, please visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/shore-line-cleanup
About the Friends of Cordell Hull Lake
The FOCHL non-profit (501c3) is a collaboration of citizens, businesses and community leaders that are organized to protect and preserve Cordell Hull Lake and its environment. The FOCHL mission is to support the recreational and educational use of Cordell Hull Lake, to bring attention to the natural beauty and friendliness of the communities and businesses around the lake, and to protect and care for the lake and its surroundings for the benefit of generations to come. To learn more or to become a member of the friends group visit http://FriendsOfCordellHullLake.org.
NOTE: PLEASE BE SURE TO WEAR PANTS AND BOOTS OR STURDY SHOES FOR WALKING THE ROCKY SHORELINES.
Food for Thought – Apple News
“An Apple A Day Will Keep the Doctor Away,” or so I have been told. Apples are one of the most popular, flavorful, and healthful fruits grown, according to the U.S. Apple Association.
Apple growing is an important industry in America. The pilgrims in the Massachusetts Bay Colony planted the first U.S. apple trees. In the early 1800s John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, traveled across the Ohio Valley carrying bags of apple seeds. He planted seeds and grew apple trees wherever he roamed to ensure that settlers would have nutritious apples to eat.
Pollination of the apple tree blooms is necessary for apple production. Many apple grower place beehives in their orchards so that the honeybees can pollinate the flowers. When the blossoms fall off, the pollinated flowers will produce apples. The apples grow during the summer and the crop is harvested in the fall when the apples ripen.
There are 2,500 varieties of apples grown throughout the United States with the state of Washington being top apple producer. The top ten apples are: Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, McIntosh, York Imperial, Rome Beauty, Johnathan, Stayman, Newtown Pippin, and Winesap.
Apples come in many varieties, convenient to eat, and very nutritious. A medium apple contains no fat, no sodium, an excellent source of fiber, only 80 calories, no cholesterol, and no artificial color or flavor. Could these facts be the reason for thinking apples keep the doctors away? For more information on apples check out Apples: A Class Act published by the U.S. Apple Association.
Scalloped Apples
2 cans Apple Pie Filling
8 oz Velveeta Cheese, cubed
1 cup sugar
1 cup flour
1 stick of butter
Directions: Place apple pie filling in bottom of sprayed baking dish. Cover top of filling with the cubed cheese. Mix sugar, flour, and butter with a fork until you have a crumbly mixture. Put this mixture on top. Cook in oven uncovered for 50 minutes on 300 degrees.
Submitted by: Janie Mundy, Defeated FCE Club
