Statewide Waterfowl Seasons Open December 5- January 31
The second segment for Tennessee’s statewide 2025-26 waterfowl hunting season is open from Dec. 5 through Jan. 31, 2026. Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until official sunset each day. The daily bag limit is six ducks with species restrictions. Waterfowl hunters should review the season dates, license requirements, daily bag, and possession limits listed in the 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide. Hunters also need to review the Federal Regulations summary on page 58 in the guide. Other migratory bird hunting seasons include the Canada goose season, which will run through Feb. 14. The sandhill crane season is Dec. 3 through Jan. 31. In the Southeast Crane Zone, it is closed Jan. 16-18 and resumes Jan. 19. The third segment of the mourning dove season is Dec. 8-Jan. 15. For a full list of season dates, visit tnwildlife.org. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) once again reminds waterfowl hunters to inspect their boats to make sure all equipment is in good order. All boats operating between sunset and sunrise are required to display the appropriate lights. Hunters should have a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each occupant. 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.Leadership Opportunity Smith County – Applications Open for 2026
Are you ready to grow as a leader and make a lasting impact in your community? The Smith County Chamber of Commerce invites you to apply for the Leadership Opportunity Smith County Adult Program, a transformative experience designed to develop strong, informed, and engaged leaders.
Since its founding in 1998, this program has empowered over 215 graduates to lead with confidence and vision. Participants gain hands-on exposure to the key sectors shaping Smith County—government, business, education, health, agriculture, and more—while building lifelong connections.
Why Join?
· Engage with local and state leaders through interactive sessions, tours, and panels.
· Develop leadership skills that make a real difference in your career and community.
· Collaborate on projects that address real issues in Smith County.
· Network with peers and influencers who share your passion for progress.
Program Highlights
· Kickoff Retreat: A dynamic 1½-day retreat in February sets the tone for the year.
· Monthly Sessions: Seven full-day sessions from March through September, each focused on a vital community topic.
· Graduation Celebration: Recognize your achievement and join the ranks of Smith County’s leadership alumni.
2026 Adult Leadership Schedule
· Orientation: January 22, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce, 5:30 PM
· Overnight Retreat: February 18–19, 2026 – Beersheba Springs, TN
· Government: March 19, 2026 – TN State Capitol Visit
· Annual Chamber Banquet: TBA, 2026 – Smith County Ag Center, 6–8 PM
· History & Tourism: April 23, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce
· Business, Labor & Technology: May 21, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce
· Agriculture: June 25, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce
· Health & Social Services: July 23, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce
· Law & Order: August 27, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce
· William Walton Harvest Festival: September 26, 2026 – Leaders Help Host
· Education: October 22, 2026 – Chamber of Commerce
· Graduation: Date & Location TBA
(Sessions are typically the fourth Thursday of each month, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.)
How to Apply
Applications open January 2026, and the class begins in February 2026. Space is limited, so don’t wait! Contact the Smith County Chamber of Commerce at 615-735-2093 or email bwoodard@smithcountychamber.org for details.
Business Spotlight: Cedar City Title Continues Its Growth With New Carthage Office
Community Members, Smith County Board Members and local mayors gather with Cedar City Title owners Danielle Imbaratto and AJ Stafford
Cedar City Title, a trusted name in real estate title services, is continuing its expansion with the opening of its newest office in Carthage. Known for strong communication, professionalism, and a commitment to community, the company aims to make every real estate transaction smooth and stress-free for clients across Middle Tennessee.
The company opened its first office in Lebanon in May 2022 with the goal of offering the kind of personal, attentive service that was missing in the local market. Cedar City Title provides full real estate title services, including closings, deed preparation, and property transfers. The team focuses on clarity, accuracy, and keeping everyone—buyers, sellers, agents, and lenders—well informed throughout the process. “Whether someone is buying, selling, or transferring property, they can count on us to guide them with clarity from start to finish,” the team said.
Clients visiting Cedar City Title can expect a friendly, professional atmosphere and consistent communication. The company places a strong emphasis on keeping all parties updated so the closing process stays efficient and stress-free.
After seeing steady growth in its Lebanon office, Cedar City Title expanded to Cookeville in April 2024 to meet rising demand in the Upper Cumberland region. Most recently, in November 2025, the company opened its Carthage office in response to increasing real estate activity in Smith County. According to the team, the welcoming nature of the community made the decision even easier. “Our favorite thing about doing business in Smith County is the strong sense of family and community,” they shared.
Cedar City Title was founded on the idea that clients deserve better communication and more personal service than what they were receiving from other title companies. That mission is reflected in the company’s motto: “Guiding You With Clarity, Securing You Beyond The Deal.”
Looking ahead, Cedar City Title plans to continue building its presence in Carthage while staying closely connected to the community. The team looks forward to supporting local realtors, serving Smith County residents, and growing alongside the area.
For more information, Cedar City Title can be reached at 615-470-8700 or frontdesk@cedarcitytitle.com, or by visiting www.cedarcitytitle.com. The office is open Monday–Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Santa Visits Carthage Junction Depot December 13th
Santa will be visiting the Carthage Junction Depot on Saturday, December 13 from 10-4 for children young and old to whisper their Christmas wishes and take pictures. While you wait for your chance to talk to the big guy, be sure to check out the entries to the Gingerbread House competition.
Rep. Rose Introduces Bill to Lower Housing Costs, Increase Supply Nationally
A companion bill, S. 2414, was introduced in the Senate by Sens. Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) in July.
Smith County Hometown Movie Night Brings Holiday Cheer to the Ag Center
Smith County is kicking off the Christmas season with a heartwarming community tradition: Hometown Movie Night at the Ag Center! Families, friends, and neighbors are invited to come together on Friday, December 5th for an evening of festive fun centered around the beloved holiday film The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.
The Ag Center will open its doors at 5:30 p.m., welcoming guests with live Christmas music to set the mood for a cozy and joyful night. Attendees can mingle, find comfortable seats, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere as the holiday spirit fills the venue.
The featured movie, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. Known for its humor and heartfelt message, the film follows a lively group of children whose mischievous antics lead to an unforgettable Christmas pageant. Its themes of compassion, community, and the true meaning of Christmas make it a perfect choice for audiences of all ages.
To make the night even sweeter, Movie Night will offer complimentary hotdogs, popcorn, hot chocolate, and classic movie snacks—all free of charge. The event is proudly promoted as FREE FOR ALL, ensuring that every member of the community is welcome to join in the festivities regardless of age or background.
Decorated in bright reds, festive greens, and gold stars, the promotional artwork reflects the spirited nature of the evening. The imagery captures the youthful energy of the film’s characters and evokes the warmth and fun of the holiday season.
Whether you’re looking to start a new family tradition or simply enjoy a nostalgic holiday film with neighbors, Smith County Hometown Movie Night at the Ag Center promises to be a memorable celebration of community and Christmas cheer. Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a magical holiday evening—together.
Carthage Junction Depot Gingerbread House Competition
The Carthage Junction Depot is hosting its second annual Gingerbread House Competition. Entries will be accepted at the Depot on December 7 and 8th from 3:30-5pm or by appointment. Houses must be edible and can be no larger than one person could carry. There will be a prize for winners in youth and adult categories. An exhibit of entries will be open to the public on December 13 from 10-4. Winners will be announced the day of the event. Santa will also be present for free photos with children young and old. This event is generously sponsored by Robin Underwood, real estate agent of Underwood Hometown Realty.
Open House & Small Business Saturday Saturday, November 29th
Celebrate Small Business Saturday with an all-day Open House featuring the incredible local shops, restaurants, and services that make our community unique!
Stay in county, stroll through town, discover new favorites, and revisit the businesses you love. Many participating businesses will be offering special promotions, treats, and activities throughout the day!
Whether you’re starting your holiday shopping, grabbing a delicious meal, or simply exploring with family and friends, your support helps our community thrive.
We can’t wait to see you out and about on November 29th!
Let’s show our local businesses some love!
The following local businesses and Smith County Chamber Members will be open. Check their websites or Facebook page for hours of operation.
Retail/Shop/Services
D&D Shoes and Boots
Deerly Blessed Photography
Gordonsville Key Stop
#Holly’s
Kim’s Fram & Art
Kiddo’s Playplace
Magnolia Health & Wellness
Mandi’s Salon & Spa
M1 Outdoors
Mooonstone Spa
Smith County Drugs
Smith County Hardware
Smith County Help Center
Smith County Museum
Stephanie McCaleb Interiors
Teresa’s Gifts
The Grazing Cow
The Rogue and Raven
Treehouse Treasure
Restaurants/Eat
BB’s Bistro
Bellacinos Pizza & Grinders
Defeated Creek Marina and Creekside Café
Domino’s Pizza
El Corral Mexican Restaurant
KFC/Taco Bell Gordonsville
Jane Reed Pleasant Shade Café
McDonalds Gordonsville/Carthage
Rojas
Rokabilly
Sonic
Wildwood Resort & Marina
Beginning Farmer Lunch & Learn Set for December 11
Anyone curious about what type of farming they can realistically pursue on their own land is invited to join the Beginning Farmer Lunch & Learn on Thursday, December 11, from 12–1 p.m. at the Smith County Chamber of Commerce.
The featured speaker will be Tori Griffin, a Farm Management Specialist with the University of Tennessee’s MANAGE program. Griffin will walk attendees through the key considerations for starting a farming operation, from evaluating your land and resources to understanding what programs and assistance may be available to new producers.
The cost to attend is just $5, which covers the price of lunch. Organizers say Griffin is a wealth of knowledge and eager to help beginners navigate their next steps in agriculture.
Participants are encouraged to come enjoy a good meal, ask plenty of questions, and connect with others interested in farming.
To reserve a spot, call the UT/TSU Smith County Extension Office at 615-735-2900
Food for Thought – Holiday Food Safety
With the 2025 holiday season here, many Americans are planning their holiday meals. Amid the rush, it’s easy to overlook essential food safety precautions, but following these tips from University of Tennessee Extension can help ensure you and your guests enjoy holiday meals that are both delicious and safe.
“Hosting a holiday gathering requires careful attention to food safety to prevent foodborne illnesses,” said Kristin Riggsbee, assistant professor and nutrition and food safety specialist with UT Extension Family and Consumer Sciences. “By following simple steps like proper handwashing and cooking foods to the right temperature, you can help protect your guests and make your celebration memorable for all the right reasons.”
So, what are the steps? Most cooks know, but they’re worth repeating:
1. Clean: The first step to preparing a meal safely is to ensure your cooking space, utensils and ingredients are clean. Start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before handling food and after using the restroom, sneezing or handling raw meat. You should clean any surface that could touch food, including cutting boards, utensils and countertops with approved cleaning sprays, especially after contact with raw poultry, meats, seafood or eggs. Finally, be sure to rinse fruits and vegetables under cool running water, without soap, to remove harmful microorganisms.
2. Separate: To avoid cross-contamination, which occurs when raw foods or contaminated surfaces come into contact with cooked foods, wash your hands frequently and store raw meat on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. Consider using separate cutting boards for raw meats and other high-risk items. The USDA advises against washing raw poultry, as this can spread harmful bacteria like Salmonella.
3. Cook: Always cook food to the correct internal temperatures to eliminate harmful bacteria, keeping hot foods above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. For meat, use a meat thermometer and be sure to check the thickest parts of meat to confirm they reach the safe temperature:
· Ground meat: 160°
· Poultry: 165°
· Ham: 145°
· Casseroles: 165°
· Beef, veal, lamb: 145° (rest for 3 minutes)
4. Chill or Keep Warm: Leaving food at room temperature for more than two hours increases the risk of bacteria growth that can cause food-borne illness. Consider serving small amounts of food at a time, storing the rest in the refrigerator or a warm oven. If you think any leftovers have been at room temperature for too long, it is safer to discard them.
5. Store: Leftovers are a great perk of the holiday season! To ensure they remain safe for consumption, it is important to store them correctly. Allow hot foods to cool, then place leftovers in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible. Most refrigerated leftovers should be eaten within four days of the initial meal and frozen items are usually safe for three to four months. Avoid overcrowding your refrigerator, as it will struggle to maintain temperatures below 40 degrees.
6. Reheat: When reheating leftovers, ensure they reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill any bacteria. You can reheat leftovers that are frozen, thawed or from the refrigerator. However, thaw frozen items safely by using the refrigerator, cold water or the microwave. Thawing in the refrigerator takes longer but is the safest method, as it keeps the food safe while it thaws.
While the risk of food-borne illness can seem scary, following these easy steps can make the holidays safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
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.
Cranberry Salad
1 package cranberries (ground)
2 cups sugar
2 oranges (ground) peeling and all
1 cup chopped nuts
1 cup diced celery
2 packages cherry Jell-O
3 cups boiling water
Mix cranberries with sugar, add nuts, celery, and oranges.
Mix Jell-O with boiling water. Let Jell-O cool then mix with cranberry mixture. Pour into mold and let congeal.
Submitted by: Velva Gray, Elmwood/Chestnut Mound FCE Club
“Life of Christ” Christmas Drive-Thru at Brush Creek Baptist Church on December 6-7, 2025.
Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with the “Life of Christ” Christmas Drive-Thru at Brush Creek Baptist Church on December 6-7, 2025. This free, family-friendly event offers a unique, drive-thru experience of the story of Christ’s birth, life, and sacrifice, with displays, live actors and animals bringing key moments of the Gospel to life.
The event is free. All donations from the event will benefit Hats of Love Ministry.
In case of inclement weather please call 615-683-8249 for recorded message.
TWRA News: New 2025 Collectible Waterfowl Stamp Available Through TWRA
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is now accepting orders for its annual collectible state waterfowl stamp, featuring the award-winning artwork from the 2025 Tennessee Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest. This year’s stamp showcases a great piece created by 16-year-old Glory Malone of Dover, whose talent earned her the Best of Show honor in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service competition. Proceeds from stamp sales support habitat improvement efforts across the state.
TWRA has taken the Best of Show-winning artwork each year since 1999 from the state’s Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest to create the collectible stamp. Glory used acrylic paint, colored pencil, and alcohol marker to portray a male ruddy duck for her Best of Show winner. Glory’s winning drawing was selected from 1,464 individuals who competed in four age groups.
The Tennessee Junior Duck Stamp program is an art contest managed by the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service designed to teach students the importance of conserving wetland habitats and waterfowl. It pairs science, the arts, and other core subjects to creatively teach greater awareness of our natural resources. As part of the program, students are invited to participate in an annual art competition.
The public is invited to purchase the collectible stamps. Each state stamp is numbered and printed in full color, measuring 1 2/8 by 2 inches. In addition to this year’s stamp, all previous stamps since 1999 are available.
Stamps are $11 each and may be ordered by completing the Wildlife Stamp order form, located in the Wildlife and Biodiversity section of the TWRA website. The form can be mailed:
TWRA Sales Office
PO Box 41729
Nashville, TN 37204
The public is reminded that the State of Tennessee Waterfowl stamp is voluntary and not required to hunt. However, the Federal Duck stamp is required to hunt waterfowl in Tennessee.
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.
Rep. Rose Introduces Resolution Enabling Speaker Johnson to Argue Unconstitutionality of Senate Payday Provision in Court
Traffic Stop in Gordonsville Leads to Arrest and Seizure of Multiple Narcotics
In the early morning hours of November 16, 2025, a routine traffic stop in Gordonsville, Tennessee, resulted in the arrest of a woman wanted out of Sumner County and the seizure of multiple types of narcotics.
According to Officer Kyle Reynolds (Unit 305), the incident began at approximately 2:46 a.m. when he observed a gray Nissan sedan at the Pilot gas station located at 502 Gordonsville Highway. While Officer Reynolds was in the process of running the vehicle’s registration and the driver’s license associated with the tag, the vehicle began to leave the parking lot. As the car turned onto Gordonsville Highway, he was able to view the driver and noted that she appeared to match the photo on the driver’s license he had just accessed. That driver, later confirmed to be Cortnie J. Bradley, had an active warrant out of Sumner County.
Officer Reynolds initiated a traffic stop near mile marker 258.5 on I40E. The driver came to a stop around mile marker 259. Upon making contact, Ms. Bradley initially provided false information about her identity, claiming that “Cortnie” was her friend. Officer Reynolds noted that she appeared extremely nervous and informed her that continuing to lie would result in an additional charge. Ms. Bradley eventually admitted she was, in fact, Cortnie J. Bradley, and she was taken into custody on the outstanding warrant.
As Officer Reynolds escorted her to his patrol vehicle, Ms. Bradley disclosed that there was a “large amount” of narcotics inside her car. After being read her Miranda Rights, which she agreed to waive, she stated that the drugs included methamphetamine and what she initially called heroin—later clarifying that it was fentanyl, explaining that “everyone called fentanyl heroin.”
Assistant Chief Shane Gregory (Unit 202) arrived shortly thereafter to assist in the search. The drugs were located exactly where Ms. Bradley stated they would be: inside a white box on the passenger-side floorboard. The box contained 8.3g Fentanyl, 23.1g Methamphetamine, and1.5g Crack Cocaine
One of the fentanyl bags field-tested positive. Along with the narcotics, officers found small baggies, a scale, and multiple pieces of burnt tinfoil. Ms. Bradley admitted the burnt foil belonged to her. Based on her statements and the identifications she provided for each substance, the remaining materials will be sent to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for laboratory analysis.
During questioning, Ms. Bradley initially claimed the drugs were for personal use. However, when confronted with the quantity of narcotics, the variety of packaging, and the presence of a scale, she admitted she was selling drugs—though she stated she only sold to “a small group of friends” and did not consider herself a “real dealer.”
Per Ms. Bradley’s request, her vehicle was left at the scene, and she was permitted to contact someone to retrieve it. She was transported to the Smith County Correctional Facility for processing. The incident occurred within Gordonsville city limits in Smith County, Tennessee.
Ms. Bradley faces the following charges:
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TCA 39-17-434: Manufacture, delivery, or sale of methamphetamine
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TCA 39-17-417: Manufacture, delivery, or sale of Schedule II substances
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TCA 39-17-418: Simple possession
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TCA 39-17-425: Possession of drug paraphernalia
The charges and allegations referenced in this report are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.
Celebrate the Season with Santa and a Festive Snow Globe Display on Dec 13th
Santa will be here to take pictures and to hear your Christmas wishes! Bring the whole family for a magical visit and capture memories that will last for years to come.
While you’re here, be sure to explore the Display of entries in the Snow Globe Competition—a charming showcase of creativity and festive holiday spirit.
This event is FREE and open to the public on Saturday, December 13th from 10 AM to 4 PM!
Location:
Carthage Junction Depot
185 Gordonsville Hwy, Carthage, TN 37030
Come enjoy the holiday magic with us. Merry Christmas!
