Smith County Amateur Radio Club to Meet Nov. 17; Go Kit Challenge Set for Dec. 6
The Smith County Amateur Radio Club will hold its next meeting on Monday, November 17 at 6 p.m. at the Smith County Chamber of Commerce, located at 939 Upper Ferry Road.
Members and guests are invited to attend as the club discusses plans for its upcoming Go Kit Challenge, set for Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. The friendly competition focuses on emergency communication preparedness, encouraging participants to assemble and demonstrate portable “go kits” used for radio operation during disasters or field events.
The event offers local amateur radio enthusiasts a chance to test their readiness, share ideas, and learn more about efficient emergency setups.
For more details about the meeting or the Go Kit Challenge, visit the club’s website at www.smithcountyamateurradio.com
TWRA News: Tennessee’s Muzzleloader Season Starts Saturday, November 8
NASHVILLE— The 2025 statewide muzzleloader/archery season for deer opens in Tennessee on Saturday, Nov. 8, and continues through Friday, Nov. 21, in all six of Tennessee’s Deer Management Units (DMU).
The statewide bag limit for antlered deer is two. In Units 1, 2, and 3, there is an antlerless deer bag limit of three per day, and a limit of two antlerless in Units 4, 5, and 6. The bag limit may only be exceeded as part of the Earn-A-Buck program or as a replacement buck in a CWD-positive county.
The statewide gun season opens Saturday, Nov. 22, and will continue until Jan. 4, 2026. The second young sportsman deer hunt is Jan. 10-11, 2026.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency recommends all hunters obtain a 2025-26 Tennessee Hunting and Trapping Guide. The guide lists license requirements, the counties, and bag limits for each of the six DMUs. The guide is available on the TWRA website, the TWRA App, and at locations where hunting and fishing licenses are sold.
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.
—TWRA—
5th Annual Paws-itively Magical Winter Ball
SMITH COUNTY HUMANE’S 2025 ANNUAL GALA
Smith County Humane’s 5th Annual Paws-itively Magical Winter Ball is taking place on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the National Guard Armory, 101 Transport Drive, Gordonsville, TN 38563. This is their largest event of the year and aims to raise funds to support the programs offered to animals and families in Smith County.
Presented to you by Smith County Animal Clinic, join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment, and compassion. Capture your magical entrance on the red carpet with photos by Pheonyx Media Management. Sip on signature drinks from the bar presented by Cumberland Cannabis Co., and enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres by What’s Cookin’ 615?, proudly sponsored by Haven House. Indulge in a delicious dinner by Helen’s Restaurant while enjoying live performances by Christian Recording Artist Natalie Brooke and Mitch Camp. End your meal on a sweet note with desserts sponsored by Chris Steele of Blackwell Realty and Auction. Then, raise your paddle for exciting finds in our live auction, sponsored by Josh Kirby of Blackwell Realty and Auction, and explore the silent auction featuring exquisite items from local businesses. Relax and monitor your bids from the Silver Sponsor Lounge presented by Tom Arnold Construction Co. And what gala would be complete without dancing? Finish the night on the dance floor sponsored by Raborn Insurance, with music by DJ Troy Productions—brought to you by Cedar City Title.
Tickets are $100 each and can be purchased at smithcountytnhumane.com/ball. Unlimited
drink armbands can be purchased additionally. The Paws-itively Magical Winter Ball promises an unforgettable evening with all proceeds directly benefiting Smith County Humane’s various programs. Their programs include low cost spay and neuter services, a TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program for community cats, food and care assistance to help pet owners keep their pets in the home and healthy, and their newly expanded adoption programs to help pets find loving homes.
“Our goal is to decrease pet overpopulation in our community and improve the lives of all pets in Smith County. We also want to help families keep their pets in the home. We need the help of the community to do this. So come join us for an elegant night out and help us raise money to Stop Pet Overpopulation,” states Jessica DiFiore, President and Event Chair for Smith County Humane.
The Paws-itively Magical Winter Ball is limited to 200 reserved seats. Get yours now!
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
