2026 Wildlife Conservation Raffle to Feature 15 Prize Packages
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation (TWRF) has compiled outstanding prize packages for its annual Wildlife Conservation Raffle. This year’s raffle has increased from 10 to 15 packages. The TWRF is a partner of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and proceeds from the raffle fund important conservation projects such as public land acquisition and habitat management.
The 2026 Wildlife Conservation Raffle includes prize packages, totaling more than $200,000 in value. This year’s packages range from outdoor gear and equipment to experiences, including a Caymas CX 19 Pro, $50,000 Ford Voucher, Forest River FSX Camper, Trophy Deer Hunting Package, Waterfowl Hunting Package and more.
Tickets are on sale now through Sunday, Nov. 8, and are available as single tickets for $20, three tickets for $50, and 10 for $100. There is no limit to the number of raffle tickets that can be purchased, and the more tickets purchased, the better opportunity there is of winning one of the packages. Raffle tickets may be purchased online directly at https://wildliferaffle.com/.
The 15 winning ticket numbers will be drawn on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The lucky winners will have the opportunity to select their prize in the order that they are drawn. The winners will be announced Nov. 12 via email and on the TWRF website.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation is a non-profit organization and, as a partner of the TWRA, is dedicated to promoting habitat conservation, responsible land stewardship, and Tennessee’s hunting and fishing heritage for the benefit of Tennessee sportsmen and women.
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.
Tennessee’s Sales Tax Holiday Continues Two Decades of Savings
Get ready to save! It’s almost time for Tennessee’s annual sales tax holiday for back-to-school essentials.
This year, the sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2026, and ends at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, August 2, 2026. Tennessee’s annual sales tax holiday has been in place for two decades. The first annual sales tax holiday happened in 2006.
During the holiday weekend, clothing and school supplies priced at $100 or less may be purchased tax-free. Computers priced at $1,500 or less may also be purchased without paying state or local sales tax, saving Tennesseans nearly 10 percent on qualifying purchases. Items sold online are eligible, and all purchases must be for personal use, not for business or trade.
“Tennessee’s strong track record of fiscal stewardship has allowed our state to cut taxes and put dollars back in the pocket of hardworking Tennesseans,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “I encourage every family to take advantage of back-to-school savings, and thank the General Assembly for their partnership to provide direct financial relief for taxpayers.”
“Tennessee’s sales tax holiday has become a back-to-school tradition for families,” Revenue Commissioner David Gerregano said. “This weekend gives Tennesseans an easy way to save on many back-to-school essentials.”
The sales tax holiday applies to many back-to-school items, including shirts, pants, shoes, dresses, binders, backpacks, crayons, paper, pens, pencils, computers, and tablets. However, some items do not qualify, such as jewelry, handbags, sports and recreational equipment, computer software sold separately, printer supplies, and household appliances. Tennesseans are encouraged to review the list of qualifying items before they shop.
Visit the Department of Revenue’s sales tax holiday page, www.tntaxholiday.com, for more information, including lists of exempt and taxable items. If you have questions, you can also call 615-253-0600 or email revenue.support@tn.gov.
The Department of Revenue is responsible for administering state tax laws and motor vehicle title and registration laws, as well as collecting taxes and fees associated with those laws. The department collects about 87 percent of the total state revenue. During the 2025 fiscal year, it collected $21 billion in state taxes and fees and more than $5 billion in local taxes and fees. To learn more about the department, visit www.tn.gov/revenue.
New Deer Bait Privilege License Available July 22
The new Deer Bait Privilege License will be available on GoOutdoorsTennessee.com and in the TWRA On the Go App, starting July 22, 2026. The cost will be $50 for a resident of Tennessee and $100 for a non-resident. Public Chapter No. 444, allowing hunting over bait for white-tailed deer, was initiated by the General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Bill Lee in the 2025 Legislative Session.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is informing the public that all hunters wishing to hunt white-tailed deer over bait, are required to purchase this license regardless of exemptions, lifetime licenses, and age. It is valid only on private property (owned or leased), across all private properties the hunter may have access to and is valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.
Under the new law, deer baiting is not allowed on Wildlife Management Areas, in the CWD Management Zone, or any CWD-positive county. For a list of counties in the CWD Management Zone and other positive counties, visit the website here. There are specific types and amounts of bait that are authorized and other bait site rules that are in effect. A full list of the regulations for hunting over bait are listed on the website here.
Feeding and baiting wildlife are regulated to protect both wildlife populations and the public. Concentrating animals increases the risk of spreading serious diseases such as CWD, bovine tuberculosis, and brucellosis, which can affect wildlife, livestock, and pets. Poor‑quality or improperly stored grains may contain aflatoxins that are highly toxic to species like turkeys and quail. Grain overload, or acidosis, can occur with sudden shifts to carbohydrate-rich diets (like corn) during winter, creating a disruption in normal digestive processes, sometimes resulting in fatal outcomes.
Additionally, feed/bait can unintentionally attract raccoons, feral hogs, and growing black bear populations, increasing the likelihood of predation, nuisance issues, and habitat and property damage. Hunters should consider these issues when placing and leaving bait on the landscape.
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.
Smith County Community Resource Fair Set for July 17
Residents are invited to attend the Smith County Community Resource Fair on Friday, July 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Historic Courthouse Lawn, located at 211 N. Main Street in Carthage.
The event is being hosted by the Tennessee Hybrid Lifeline Peer Project and the Community Wellness Alliance of Smith County Drug Prevention. Organizers say the fair is designed to connect community members with valuable information and services related to recovery support, addiction education, and drug prevention efforts in Smith County.
Attendees will have the opportunity to receive free overdose reversal education and information, including naloxone training. Additional resources available at the event will cover recovery support services, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) information, health support, medication safety, and substance abuse prevention.
Community members seeking information, support, or educational resources are encouraged to stop by and learn more about the programs and services available throughout the county.
For additional information, contact organizers at 615-588-1622 or by email at chodgeslifeline3n@gmail.com
Tiger Football Booster Club to Host “Eye of the Tiger” Car Show July 25
Car enthusiasts from across the region are invited to Gordonsville High School on Saturday, July 25, 2026, for the Tiger Football Booster Club’s annual “Eye of the Tiger” Car Show. The event, which is open to all vehicles, will be held at Gordonsville High School, located at 110 East Main Street in Gordonsville.
Registration begins at 7:00 a.m., with the car show officially starting at 10:00 a.m. Participants can enter their vehicles for a $20 registration fee, and a variety of specialty awards and prizes will be presented. Award winners will be announced beginning at 1:00 p.m.
In addition to a wide range of classic, custom, and modern vehicles on display, attendees can enjoy food vendors, restroom facilities, and a designated area to cool off during the summer heat.
The event serves as a fundraiser for the Tiger Football Booster Club, helping support Gordonsville High School’s football program. Organizers encourage community members and visitors alike to come out, enjoy a day of family-friendly fun, and support local student-athletes while admiring some impressive vehicles.
TWRA News: 2026 Wildlife Conservation Raffle to Feature 15 Prize Packages
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation (TWRF) has compiled outstanding prize packages for its annual Wildlife Conservation Raffle. This year’s raffle has increased from 10 to 15 packages. The TWRF is a partner of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and proceeds from the raffle fund important conservation projects such as public land acquisition and habitat management.
The 2026 Wildlife Conservation Raffle includes prize packages, totaling more than $200,000 in value. This year’s packages range from outdoor gear and equipment to experiences, including a Caymas CX 19 Pro, $50,000 Ford Voucher, Forest River FSX Camper, Trophy Deer Hunting Package, Waterfowl Hunting Package and more.
Tickets are on sale now through Sunday, Nov. 8, and are available as single tickets for $20, three tickets for $50, and 10 for $100. There is no limit to the number of raffle tickets that can be purchased, and the more tickets purchased, the better opportunity there is of winning one of the packages. Raffle tickets may be purchased online directly at https://wildliferaffle.com/.
The 15 winning ticket numbers will be drawn on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The lucky winners will have the opportunity to select their prize in the order that they are drawn. The winners will be announced Nov. 12 via email and on the TWRF website.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation is a non-profit organization and, as a partner of the TWRA, is dedicated to promoting habitat conservation, responsible land stewardship, and Tennessee’s hunting and fishing heritage for the benefit of Tennessee sportsmen and women.
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.
Smith County Humane Presents Purse Bingo
Come out to join Smith County’s FIRST EVER Purse Bingo Event !!
When: Monday August 10, 2026 at 6PM
Where: Smith County Ag Center
All proceeds support Smith County Humane!
$35 ENTRY FEE
Only 200 Tickets Will Be Sold
Tickets of 8 or More will have reserved seating.
• 10 Games of BINGO
• BONUS ROUND + Extra Ways to WIN !
• Designer Purses are the PRIZES!
COACH. KATE SPADE. TORY BURCH. MICHAEL KORS to name a few !!
• Silent Auction + Raffle Prizes
• Family Friendly + Fun Event
• Doors Open at 5:00
Get your tickets today :
Smith County Fine Arts Center/Theatre is proud to present FrUiTCaKeS
Mix together a batch of fruitcakes, three dozen Christmas trees, 10,000 outdoor Christmas lights, a chicken pox epidemic, two southern spinsters, an estranged old man, a lost cat named Tutti Frutti and a Christmas hog named Buster and you’ve got the recipe for a fun-filled and touching evening of holiday cheer. Into this world comes Jamie, a kid who has run away from home and come as far as his money will take him. At first, he thinks this town’s inhabitants are “nuttier than fruitcakes,” but soon he comes to admire, appreciate and adore this nutty little town. A moving story of alienation, understanding and reconciliation, FrUiTCaKeS provides audiences with a heaping helping of holiday warmth and Christmas cheer.
Characters needed: 4 men, 4 Woman, 6 Boys, 7 Girls, extra children for Christmas Pageant
Mack Morgan: Makes whirligigs for a living, at Christmas time he also sells Christmas Trees, takes Jamie in.
Jamie: a runaway teenage boy from a nearby city
Beebo Dantzler: the town’s only policeman
Betty Jane: Beebo’s Wife-directs the town’s annual Christmas Pageant
Little Beebo: their son (preteen)
Sally : their Daughter (8-10 years old)
Miss Sarah: a grouchy spinner, who, with her sister Alice, makes hundreds of fruitcakes each Christmas (middle age-mid 80’s)
Miss Alice: Miss Sarah’s younger sister, more gentle and caring (middle age to early 80’s)
Skeeter: a local fisherman and lover of poetry
Mattie Sue: a neighbor, who has been married six times
Rick Morgan: Mack’s son (late 20’s, early 30’s)
James : Rick’s son, Mack’s Grandson (8-10 years old)
Children in the Pageant: (speaking roles) 2nd grade-5th grade
Meredith (Mary)
Sammy (Joseph)
Laura (Sheep)
Joanie (Sheep)
Amy (Angel)
MaryBeth (Angel)
Frances (Narrator)
Little Skeeter (Innkeeper)
Little Larry (Wise man)
Little Billy (Wise Man)
You do not need to prepare anything. We will have Scripts at auditions for you to do cold reads. We look forward to seeing everyone from our community come out and audition.
TWRA Requests Public Input for 2027-28 Fishing Regulations
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is seeking public comments on the 2027-28 fishing regulations. This comment period, open from Wednesday, July 15, through Thursday, August 16, 2026, allows anglers and stakeholders to share feedback and suggestions with TWRA staff. Proposed regulation changes will be presented at the December meeting of the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC).
Public input is an important part of TWRA’s fisheries management process. Comments are reviewed alongside scientific assessments to help determine effective strategies for managing Tennessee’s aquatic resources while serving a diverse angling community.
TWRA Fisheries personnel collect data on fish populations, habitat conditions, and angler use through various monitoring techniques and surveys. These efforts support decisions on habitat improvements, fish propagation and stocking, and other management actions. All collected information is considered during the regulation development process.
An additional public comment period will follow TWRA’s presentation to the Commission. Approved regulations will take effect August 1, 2027.
To submit comments, please click the link or scan the QR code to submit your comments: https://stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/2027_fishing_reg_public_comment.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for conserving the state’s fish and wildlife resources and promoting public safety through law enforcement and boating education.
tnAchieves Students on Their Way to an On-Time Degree
Smith County Young Farmers & Ranchers Celebrate Beef Month with Free Burger
The Smith County Young Farmers & Ranchers are excited to host a special community event in celebration of July as Beef Month, recognizing the vital role beef plays in Tennessee agriculture and family meals.
The event will take place on Friday, July 24th at 5:00 p.m. at Sav-Way and will feature free hamburger plates, giveaways, and fun activities for all ages.
Held annually, Beef Month highlights the contributions of local cattle producers and the beef industry as a whole. Smith County’s farmers and ranchers are proud to share their work and passion with the public during this free event aimed at bringing the community together.
We will also have a drawing for giveaways which will include a Yeti Cooler and Sav-Way gift cards!
To learn more about beef and its nutritional benefits, visit https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com.
Make plans to come see us Friday at 5:00 p.m. at Sav-Way! Bring your appetite and enjoy an evening of great food, community fun, and support for local agriculture.
July Beef Month Free Hamburger Plates and Giveaways
The Smith County Young Farmers & Ranchers are excited to host a special community event in celebration of July as Beef Month, recognizing the vital role beef plays in Tennessee agriculture and family meals.
The event will take place on Friday, July 24th at 5:00 p.m. at Sav-Way and will feature free hamburger plates, giveaways, and fun activities for all ages.
Held annually, Beef Month highlights the contributions of local cattle producers and the beef industry as a whole. Smith County’s farmers and ranchers are proud to share their work and passion with the public during this free event aimed at bringing the community together.
We will also have a drawing for giveaways which will include a Yeti Cooler and Sav-Way gift cards!
To learn more about beef and its nutritional benefits, visit https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com.
Make plans to come see us Friday at 5:00 p.m. at Sav-Way! Bring your appetite and enjoy an evening of great food, community fun, and support for local agriculture.
Lissa’s Nutrition Turns 4
WE’RE TURNING 4!!
Four years of teas, shakes, coffees and the BEST community we could ever ask for!
Lissa’s Nutrition is turning 4, and we want to celebrate another trip around the sun with the people who made it possible- YOU!
Join us Saturday, August 1st from 8:00 to 3:00 for:
•A new birthday menu (Stay tuned for that coming out soon)
•Giveaways- A ton of different ones to win, so come put your name in our bucket.
•Incredible Vendors including Sugar Rush, Lullaby Lane, Linked and Layered Jewelry and more!
We also have something extra special to show our love and appreciation… BUCKETS! (Exclusive only to our birthday menu)
Come for the tea and stay for the party
We couldn’t thank everyone enough for these amazing 4 years
Living Water Ministries to Host Free Backpack and School Supplies Giveaway
As the new school year approaches, Living Water Ministries is helping local students get off to a great start by hosting a Free Backpack and School Supplies Giveaway on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The event will take place at Living Water Ministries, 15 New Middleton Highway, Gordonsville, Tennessee, and is designed to provide students with free backpacks filled with essential school supplies to help them begin the upcoming school year prepared and confident.
Families are encouraged to attend while supplies last. The giveaway is part of the ministry’s ongoing commitment to serving the community and supporting local students as they head back to the classroom.
Community members are invited to spread the word and help ensure every child has the tools they need for a successful school year.
Citizens Bank Supports Friends of Cordell Hull Lake Singer Songwriter Festival as Silver Sponsor
Citizens Bank is demonstrating its continued commitment to the community by serving as a Silver Sponsor for the 2026 Friends of Cordell Hull Lake Singer Songwriter Festival.
The annual festival on September 12, 2026 evening celebrates talented singer-songwriters while bringing the community together to enjoy live music and support the ongoing efforts of the Friends of Cordell Hull Lake organization. Sponsorships from local businesses like Citizens Bank help make the event possible and contribute to its continued success.
Pictured above are Olga Beddingfield, representing Friends of Cordell Hull Lake, and Jared Goad, Assistant Vice President at Citizens Bank, recognizing the bank’s sponsorship of this year’s festival.
