Girl Scouts Celebrate Blessing Boxes and Free Library Boxes
We are proud to announce that 8 Smith County Girl Scouts, with Troop 1019 have placed Blessing boxes and Free Library boxes up around Smith County.
The first was Compleated by Cadettes Myla Alsup(Left) and Sarah Beth Anderson(right). This box has a food blessing section, one for hygiene products and a free library. They will be given the Silver Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can receive. This box is located right in front of Union Heights School.
The Next Food blessing box was completed by Junior Girl Scouts Sophia Vargas (left) Aryabell Chastain (middle) and Cecilia Dunn (right). They will be given the Bronze Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Junior can receive. This box is located right in front of the Turner-Clark Basketball court, on Spring street in Carthage.
And last but not least a Free Little Library Completed by Junior Girl Scouts Iris Rustenburg (left) Freya Alsup (middle) and Hannah Hiett (right). They will alsi be given the Bronze Award, the highest award a Girl Scout Junior can receive. This box is located right in front of the Turner-Clark Basketball court, on Spring street in Carthage.
Girl Scout Troop 1019 will be commited to keeping these boxes stocked for the needs of our community, year round and we ask the community to give what they can and take what they need!
Special thanks Tractor Supply, Walmart, Cumberland Supply and Sonic for donating supplies to help make this happen. Another big thank you to Dale Anderson and Rocky Fultz for helping make the girls construction dreams happen on this project.
Smith County 4-H’ers Compete in Regional Poultry Judging Contest
Front Row (L to R): Emmy Bibbings, McCall Kemp, Scarlett Hicks, Aubrey Hicks, Willow Lawrence
Throughout the month of September, twelve Smith County 4-H’ers have been hard at work
learning all about chickens and eggs by participating in 4-H Poultry Judging. On Thursday,
September 25, 2025, these 4-H’ers traveled to the Rutherford County Community Center in
Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to test their knowledge at this year’s Central Region 4-H Poultry
Judging Contest.
180 youth from all across the Central Region competed in this contest, and several of our Smith
County 4-H’ers received individual and team awards.
Our Junior Team, made up Josie Harville, Scarlett Hicks, McCall Kemp, and Willow Lawrence,
placed 3rd in their division. Josie was the 10th place individual.
Our Junior High Team, made up of Charlotte Driver, Tana Harville, Oakley Lawrence, and
Everett West, placed 6th in their division. Tana was the 7th place individual. Aubrey Hicks also
competed in the Junior High division.
Our Senior High Team, made up of Easton Bibbings, Emmy Bibbings, and Turner Harville,
placed 2nd in their division, which qualifies them to move on to the state contest. Emmy was the
6th place individual, and Turner was the 3rd place individual.
I would describe that as an egg-cellent day! Congratulations to these 4-H’ers for a job well done!
Through our Poultry Judging practices, 4-H’ers learn how to evaluate live birds for their laying
capacity, how to grade eggs by evaluating their interior, exterior, and broken-out quality, how to
identify various ready-to-cook poultry parts, as well as how to grade those parts and whole
chicken carcasses for quality. Our 4-H’ers also learn how to identify defects in further processed
poultry products like chicken nuggets and chicken patties.
The various components of the Poultry Judging contest help our 4-H’ers develop their critical
thinking skills, be better stewards of their own poultry flocks at home, and even prepare them for
future careers in the agriculture industry.
If you have any questions about how to get involved in Poultry Judging or any other aspect of the
4-H Poultry project, please call the Smith County Extension Office at 615-735-2900 or email
rpetty@utk.edu.
Young Adult Arise Dinner and Fellowship on September 30th
ARISE is a free faith based gathering geared toward young adults (21-35 years old). This free event will be happening at the Smith County Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday 9/30 from 6-9pm. This event will include dinner, spiritual encouragement and fun with a goal to connect and encourage a rising generation of believers in their faith.
McLean convicted of First-Degree Murder
A Wilson County jury has convicted a man of first-degree murder in the slaying of an innocent motorist at a Mt. Juliet marina last year. Adrian McLean, 40, of Jamaica was arrested and charged with first-degree murder of Bailey Gardner and three counts of aggravated robbery relating to an armed robbery of Cedar Creek Marina restaurant which occurred on June 29, 2024. After an extensive investigation involving multiple agencies, police determined that McLean and his two counterparts chose to rob the restaurant as it closed that night. Upon leaving the restaurant after the robbery, the men discovered that Gardner had arrived in the parking lot towing a boat and was sitting in his vehicle. One of the men approached Gardner’s vehicle and shot and killed Gardner while he sat in the driver’s seat.
During the investigation, a surveillance video from a local gas station connected McLean to the vehicle that was seen on the Cedar Creek Marina restaurant video as being used in the commission of the crime. The gas station video was recorded shortly before the robbery and murder, and given the distances travelled and GPS data investigators proved that McClean was one of the men involved in the robbery and homicide. McLean was arrested on July 17, 2024, in Nashville. At the time of his arrest, McLean was in the United States on an expired temporary visa. McLean remained in jail until his trial and will be transferred to the Department of Correction for service of his life sentence.
The trial began on Monday morning progressed for four days. Late Thursday afternoon, the jury returned the verdict finding McLean guilty on all counts. The homicide carries a mandatory life sentence, and a separate sentencing hearing will be held where prosecutors intend to seek additional sentences for the aggravated robbery convictions. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorneys Justin Harris and Tom Swink.
“This was a coordinated investigation by the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and the Mt. Juliet Police Department, both of which did an outstanding job. Having two different police agencies working on a case together led to tremendous resources and a vast number of witnesses to testify at trial, all of which played an important role in the investigation,” said Jason Lawson, District Attorney. “It is our hope that this conviction brings some measure of justice for the family and friends of Bailey Gardner.”
TWRA Highlights Gov. Bill Lee’s Hunting and Fishing Day Proclamation as Archery Season Approaches for Dear and Turkey
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is highlighting Gov. Bill Lee’s proclamation recognizing National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD), which is observed on Saturday, Sept. 27. NHFD also coincides with the launch of the statewide fall archery season for deer and the fall archery season for turkey in select counties. Check the 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide for specific season regulations and visit TNWildlife.org for more information on events and opportunities to get involved.
TWRA’s Executive Director Jason Maxedon presented the proclamation at the August Commission Meeting. “We are thankful for Gov. Lee, who, as a sportsman, recognizes what hunting and fishing has meant to generations of Tennesseans and their importance as we move forward. We are grateful to the hunters, anglers, and boaters in the state of Tennessee who purchase licenses supporting wildlife conservation programs, habitat acquisitions, and outdoor recreational opportunities. We invite all Tennesseans and visitors to go outdoors and experience our beautiful natural resources.”
The proclamation notes that “Tennessee has a rich and storied tradition of hunting and angling that dates further than the state itself. Tennessee fishing and hunting enthusiasts were among the first conservationists to support the establishment of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and together we have strengthened the focus on conservation sustainability and its habitat.”
NHFD was established by the U.S. Congress in 1972 to recognize hunters and anglers for their financial contributions to wildlife conservation. The event is celebrated in all 50 states annually on the fourth Saturday in September. This special day recognizes generations of sportsmen and women for their contributions to the rich tradition of wildlife conservation funded by hunting, fishing, and boating license sales.
In 2024, Tennessee’s sportsmen and women generated more than $78 million through the American System of Conservation Funding, a “user pays-public benefits” approach that is widely recognized as the most successful model for funding fish and wildlife management. Last year alone, more than 910,00 hunters and anglers supported Tennessee’s economy through their spending of $13 billion on outdoor activities in the state.
Wildlife and fisheries conservation in Tennessee is primarily funded by the sales of hunting and fishing licenses, boating registrations, and a portion of the Real Estate Transfer Tax. In addition to license sales, TWRA also receives federal grant funding from excise taxes on the sale and manufacturing of certain outdoor recreation gear, firearms, ammunition, and fishing equipment.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) reminds hunters that the archery-only deer season and the fall turkey season open on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The archery deer season dates are Sept. 27-Oct. 24 and Oct. 27-Nov. 7. For the fall turkey season, the archery season is Sept. 27-Oct. 24, Oct. 27-Nov. 7, and the shotgun/archery season is Oct. 11-24. Turkey season is open in all counties except Crockett, Dyer, Giles, Haywood, Lake, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lincoln, Shelby, Tipton, and Wayne.
There are ample opportunities for deer hunters looking for public land to hunt. More than 100 wildlife management areas and refuges across the state are open at various times for hunting. Find area-specific regulations at tnwildlife.org. Hunters are reminded that they must possess the appropriate licenses and permits. Specific regulations and license requirements do apply. Private lands are also open for hunting. Before accessing private land, hunters must obtain permission from the landowner.
The 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide is the ultimate guide for hunting in Tennessee. Guides are available where hunting and fishing licenses are sold, online at tnwildlife.org, or through the TWRA On the Go app.
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.
Third Annual Glow Walk for Recovery Set for September 25 in South Carthage
The Community Wellness Alliance invites the community to join the Third Annual Glow Walk for Recovery on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Rails to Trails walking trail in South Carthage.
This free event is held in recognition of National Recovery Month and is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. The walk will begin at the Rails to Trails gazebo and participants are encouraged to walk at their own pace and distance.
To celebrate the occasion, glow sticks and battery-operated vigil candles will be available. Attendees are also welcome to bring flashlights to help light their path. A shaved ice truck will be on site for participants to enjoy. In addition, a free T-shirt will be provided for each participant while supplies last.
The Glow Walk offers a chance to enjoy fresh air, get active, and show support for individuals and families in recovery.
For more information, contact 615-588-1622 or email Tammy@SmithCoDrugPrevention.org.
This project is funded under a grant contract with the State of Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
Join Us for National Public Lands Day at Cordell Hull Lake
Lace up your boots and get ready to make a difference! Saturday, September 27, 2025 volunteers will gather at Cordell Hull Lake to celebrate National Public Lands Day (NPLD), the largest single-day volunteer event for public lands in the United States.
This year, Friends of Cordell Hull Lake, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local community members will focus their efforts on the newly established Storybook Trail along the Periwinkle Hiking Trail. Volunteers will help improve the trail by moving mulch and spreading mulch along the trail to enhance families’ visitor experience.
“We’re excited to have the community come together for National Public Lands Day to care for this beautiful area,” said Park Ranger Stone Fagan. “The Storybook Trail is a fantastic resource for children and their families of all ages, and this project will ensure it remains a welcoming space.”
Event Details:
· Date & Time: Saturday, September 27th, 8:00 a.m.
· Location: Wildwood Marina, 7316 Granville Hwy, Granville, TN 38564
· Tasks: Volunteers will assist with moving and spreading mulch along the Storybook portion of the Periwinkle Hiking Trail.
· Sign-Up: Please arrive a few minutes early for volunteer check-in, safety briefings, and group assignments.
· Lunch: A free lunch will be provided at the end of the event for all volunteers.
· Event link: https://www.neefusa.org/npld/periwinkle-hiking-trail/national-public-lands-day-periwinkle-hiking-trail
NPLD is the largest volunteer event for public lands in the country, with over 130 national parks participating and more than 9,000 volunteers contributing 54,000 hours of service nationwide last year. This year’s efforts at Cordell Hull Lake will continue that tradition of community involvement and environmental stewardship.
William Walton Harvest Festival Returns September 27th with Family Fun, Live Entertainment, Shopping, Food, and the Beloved Harvest Queen Pageant
The William Walton Harvest Festival is set to return on Saturday, September 27th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, bringing a full day of fall-themed fun, entertainment, and community spirit to the heart of Smith County. This family-friendly event attracts visitors from across the region.
Festival goers can look forward to a wide variety of activities and attractions throughout the day. Local vendors will line the streets offering handmade crafts, unique gifts, seasonal décor, food and much more. Live music and entertainment will provide a festive backdrop as guests explore everything the festival has to offer.
A highlight of the day will be the Harvest Queen Pageant, scheduled for 4:00 PM on the festival stage. This tradition will showcase participants of various age groups competing for the title of Harvest Queen. It’s an event that draws a big crowd each year, celebrating grace, personality, and community pride. Those interested in participating in the pageant can pick up registration forms at the Smith County Chamber of Commerce or the Register of Deeds Office. For more information about participating, call 615-735-2093.
Mark your calendars for September 27th and bring the whole family for a day filled with music, shopping, food, pageantry, and fall fun at the William Walton Harvest Festival. For more details, contact the festival organizers at 615-735-2093.
Running for a Reason: “Trot on the River 5K” Fundraiser Supports Local Couple’s Adoption Journey
South Carthage, TN — On Saturday, November 8th, 2025, the Smith County community is invited to lace up their running shoes and come out in support of a heartfelt cause. The Trot on the River 5K will take place at 9:00 a.m. at the Smith County Ag Center, located at 159 Ag Center Lane, South Carthage, TN. This family-friendly event promises not just a scenic race by the river, but also coffee, breakfast, and a meaningful opportunity to give back.
The event is being organized by Logan and Meghan Dickens, a local couple with deep roots in Smith County. High school sweethearts from Smith County High School’s Class of 2013, Logan and Meghan married in 2017 and have spent the past eight years building a life together. Now, they’re preparing for their next chapter: growing their family through adoption.
Adoption became part of their journey after Meghan, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2013, was advised by her doctor against pregnancy due to potential complications. Though the decision to pursue adoption came after much prayer and consideration, Logan and Meghan now feel confident and excited about the path ahead.
“This wasn’t the road we expected,” says Meghan, “but it’s one we feel incredibly hopeful about. We’ve already been overwhelmed by the love and support we’ve received from our family, friends, and local businesses.”
The Trot on the River 5K is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community, perseverance, and the power of coming together for something bigger. In addition to the run, attendees can enjoy hot drinks from Cedar City Coffee Truck and a breakfast and bake sale from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Proceeds from the event will directly assist Logan and Meghan with adoption costs, which can be significant. The couple is accepting 5K sign-ups via Venmo, where participants can include their shirt size and order information in the notes. Order forms are also available at select local businesses, and t-shirt orders will be accepted through October 14th, 2025.
“We’re excited to get the community involved in our fundraiser,” Meghan shares. “We feel so blessed for the donations we’ve received already and can’t wait to see everyone at the race!”
For those interested in learning more or staying up to date, Logan and Meghan encourage people to visit their Facebook page, “Trot on the River 5K,” or follow their adoption journey on Instagram at @whatin.thedickens.
So mark your calendars, grab your running shoes (and maybe your sweet tooth), and join the Dickens family on November 8th. Every step you take helps bring them one step closer to bringing a child home.
Free eye screenings at PRC
The Pregnancy Resource Center will be hosting FREE eye screenings on Saturday, October 6th, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.
Location:
108 College Avenue West
Carthage, TN
Open to all ages
🔸 Participants under 18 must have a signed waiver from a parent or guardian.
Come take advantage of this valuable service—no appointment necessary!
Rep. Rose Supports GOP Government Funding Bill
WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) voted ‘Yes’ on H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, which will fund the federal government through Nov. 21.
The short-term funding will prevent harmful disruptions to national security and vital programs on which many Tennesseans rely. The bill also allows the House of Representatives to continue its efforts to restore regular order to the budget process in the weeks ahead.
Rep. Rose released the following statement:
“The vast majority of Tennesseans want to see Washington pass a budget the right way, through what is known as regular order,” Rep. Rose said. “This continuing resolution (CR) gives the House a few more weeks to make that happen. This short-term funding also prevents any disruptions to President Trump’s efforts to deport criminal illegal aliens and restore safety to our nation’s crime-ridden cities, including Memphis.”
Background:
The House Appropriations Committee has successfully passed all 12 appropriations bills out of committee, three of which have already been passed by the full House.
U.S. Representative John Rose is currently serving his fourth term representing Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District and resides on his family farm in Lancaster with his wife, Chelsea, and their two sons, Guy and Sam. The Sixth District includes Cannon, Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Fentress, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith, Sumner, Trousdale, Van Buren, and White counties as well as portions of Davidson, Scott, Warren, and Wilson counties. Representative Rose is an eighth-generation farmer, small business owner, and attorney.
TWRA News: 2025 Deer, Fall turkey archery hunting seasons open September 27th.
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) reminds hunters that the archery-only deer season and the fall turkey season open on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The archery deer season dates are Sept. 27-Oct. 24 and Oct. 27-Nov. 7. For the fall turkey season, the archery season is Sept. 27-Oct. 24, Oct. 27-Nov. 7, and the shotgun/archery season is Oct. 11-24. Turkey season is open in all counties except Crockett, Dyer, Giles, Haywood, Lake, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lincoln, Shelby, Tipton, and Wayne.
There are ample opportunities for deer hunters looking for public land to hunt. More than 100 wildlife management areas and refuges across the state are open at various times for hunting. Find area-specific regulations at tnwildlife.org. Hunters are reminded that they must possess the appropriate licenses and permits. Specific regulations and license requirements do apply. Private lands are also open for hunting. Before accessing private land, hunters must obtain permission from the landowner.
The 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide is the ultimate guide for hunting in Tennessee. Guides are available where hunting and fishing licenses are sold, online at tnwildlife.org, or through the TWRA On the Go app.
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 News: Governor Highlights Hunting and Fishing Day Proclamation as Archery Season Approaches for Deer and Turkey, Sept. 27
NASHVILLE — The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is highlighting Gov. Bill Lee’s proclamation recognizing National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD), which is observed on Saturday, Sept. 27. NHFD also coincides with the launch of the statewide fall archery season for deer and the fall archery season for turkey in select counties. Check the 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide for specific season regulations and visit TNWildlife.org for more information on events and opportunities to get involved.
TWRA’s Executive Director Jason Maxedon presented the proclamation at the August Commission Meeting. “We are thankful for Gov. Lee, who, as a sportsman, recognizes what hunting and fishing has meant to generations of Tennesseans and their importance as we move forward. We are grateful to the hunters, anglers, and boaters in the state of Tennessee who purchase licenses supporting wildlife conservation programs, habitat acquisitions, and outdoor recreational opportunities. We invite all Tennesseans and visitors to go outdoors and experience our beautiful natural resources.”
The proclamation notes that “Tennessee has a rich and storied tradition of hunting and angling that dates further than the state itself. Tennessee fishing and hunting enthusiasts were among the first conservationists to support the establishment of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, and together we have strengthened the focus on conservation sustainability and its habitat.”
NHFD was established by the U.S. Congress in 1972 to recognize hunters and anglers for their financial contributions to wildlife conservation. The event is celebrated in all 50 states annually on the fourth Saturday in September. This special day recognizes generations of sportsmen and women for their contributions to the rich tradition of wildlife conservation funded by hunting, fishing, and boating license sales.
In 2024, Tennessee’s sportsmen and women generated more than $78 million through the American System of Conservation Funding, a “user pays-public benefits” approach that is widely recognized as the most successful model for funding fish and wildlife management. Last year alone, more than 910,00 hunters and anglers supported Tennessee’s economy through their spending of $13 billion on outdoor activities in the state.
Wildlife and fisheries conservation in Tennessee is primarily funded by the sales of hunting and fishing licenses, boating registrations, and a portion of the Real Estate Transfer Tax. In addition to license sales, TWRA also receives federal grant funding from excise taxes on the sale and manufacturing of certain outdoor recreation gear, firearms, ammunition, and fishing equipment.
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.
BeeKeeping 101 – Lunch & Learn on Monday, September 22nd
Interested in starting a beekeeping hobby? Have you been a beekeeper for years? Interested in how honey is extracted? This has something for everyone! Come on out to the Smith County Chamber of Commerce Monday, September 22nd at 12pm! The Extension Agent from Fentress County is taking time to come to us to speak and share his experience beekeeping! Cost is $5 to attend and lunch is included! Please call the UT/TSU Smith County Extension Office at 615-735-2900 to sign up if you are interested! Hope to see you there!
New Veterinary Clinic Opening in Carthage This October
Carthage will soon welcome a new resource for pet owners as Baker Veterinary Services prepares to open its doors on October 1, 2025. Located at 334 Lebanon Highway, the clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for pets throughout Smith County.
Baker Veterinary Services will offer a wide range of services, including routine wellness visits, sick visits, prescriptions, spay/neuter, dentistry, surgery, house calls, and both daytime and after-hours emergency care. The clinic is committed to creating a welcoming, low-stress environment where both clients and their pets feel comfortable.
Dr. Hannah Baker, the clinic’s founder, grew up in Leesburg, Florida, and attended the University of Florida before completing her veterinary degree at Lincoln Memorial University. After moving to Smith County with her husband Nicholas—who attended Tennessee Tech—the couple decided to make the community their home. Along with their two children, dogs, horses, and chickens, the Bakers are excited to build their future in the area.
“I’ve always known I wanted to be a veterinarian, and owning my own clinic was part of that goal,” Dr. Baker shared. “I felt the time was right to pursue my goal. I hope to fill a gap in veterinary care here and help the animals in this area.”
The clinic’s hours will be:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Wednesday & Thursday: 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Friday: 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Dr. Baker hopes to expand the clinic in the future by hiring additional veterinarians and staff, utilizing the extra space at the location to grow and offer even more services.
For more information, visit www.bakerveterinary.com, call 615-706-3111, or email bakervetinfo@gmail.com.
