2025-26 Hunting Seasons Set at April Commission Meeting
The Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission set the state’s 2025-26 hunting and trapping seasons at its two-day April meeting which concluded Friday.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency’s Wildlife and Forestry Division had presented its recommendations at the TFWC’s March meeting. A year long-process, the recommendations are formed from biological data collection, public input, and compilation and analysis of data (3-and-5-year averages). A public comment period was held following the March meeting.
The Commission approved the recommendations for no changes to deer or turkey season and bag limits. A change was made in Bear Hunt Zone 2 to shift nine days of the December bear hunting season earlier to October.
Two new public hunting areas were established after being introduced at last month’s meeting. They are the 6,500-acre Scott’s Gulf Centennial State Park in White/Van Buren counties and the 5,500-acre Wolf River State Forest in Fayette County.
Wildlife Management Area (WMA) season recommendations were approved. Notable changes include compliance with the new amendment in state law to allow fluorescent pink to meet the hunter orange requirements and small game hunters to wear 500 square inches of fluorescent orange or pink when hunting during big game seasons.
Individual WMA recommendations changed were to address safety concerns at Big Sandy (Gin Creek) and align South Fork Refuge with Horns Bluff Refuge waterfowl hunting regulations. It was also passed to prohibit all activities in waterfowl impoundments during non-hunting days at Cheatham Lake WMA. Bridgestone Firestone WMA will now follow Unit 4 antlerless bag limits and Catoosa WMA will align spring turkey season opening dates with statewide seasons but only run for four weeks, like their current season length. Increased hunting opportunity or regulation simplifications were proposed for several other WMAs. Complete list of regulations will be in the 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide which will be available in July.
Region IV Boating and Law Enforcement’s Emily Posey was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the TWRA’s Dispatcher of the Year. She has served 11 years and played an integral role in the Agency’s efforts during Hurricane Helene last fall.
An emergency rule was approved by the Commission to comply with a recently passed law that removes the requirement that boater safety exams must be proctored. The rule sets the fee and process for administering boater safety exams.
Mom’s Day Out at Carthage United Methodist Church
Spend an afternoon shopping, sipping, snacking, crafting, and soaking up words of wisdom from local speakers at Carthage United Methodist Church’s Mom’s Day Out on Saturday, May 3 from 10AM-4PM.
Shop apparel and accessories, gifts, and more from local vendors, snag a sweet sip from 56Brew Coffee Co., snap some photos at our photobooth, or get crafty making cute lanyards with Michelle McRae and fresh custom flower bouquets with Carthage Flowers & Gifts. (Husbands – this is a great place to find something special that your sweetheart will love this Mother’s Day!)
Whether you’re a longtime mom, mom-to-be, or mom at heart, Mom’s Day Out is sure to be an afternoon of fun, relaxation, and inspiration!
Sonny Carter Receives Good Scout Award
Sonny Carter received the Good Scout Award this morning at the annual Smith County Friends of Scouting breakfast. Long time Scouter David Bass introduced him, explaining how Sonny’s life exemplified a fundamental tenant of the Scout Oath: “to help other people at all times”.
For 45 years (30 as chief), without pay, and at all hours, Sonny has selflessly attended to our crises through the all-volunteer Smith County Rescue Squad. Although he stepped down from chief of the squad in 2023, he and his family members continue to serve: wife Peggy (20 years), and daughter and son-in-law, Misty and Gary Western. (These family members attended plus granddaughter “Buttercup” aka Alexa Western, a student at TTU.)
For 35 ½ years (27 as assistant chief), he served the Rock City/Rome Fire Department. For at least ten years, he has served area youth as a softball coach. For 35 years, he served our state through his employment with TDOT’s Division of Structures.
Still in service to Smith Countians, Sonny continues his 22 years as EMA Director and three years as Fire Chief of the county’s nine fire halls.
Phillip Piper presided over the breakfast meeting, an opportunity for community-wide financial support in the 2025 Friends of Scouting Campaign. The meal was sponsored by Bass and Bass Attorneys at Law and facilitated through kitchen crew Dr. Larry Turner, David Oyster, and David Bass. Several Scouts from Pack 367 and Troop 367 attended and participated: Canan Barnhart gave the invocation; Wyatt Stark led the presentation of colors, supported by Logan Crocker, Blake Manning, and Ephraim Rodenbach; Thad Stark, Jake Pedigo, and Angel Whitehead provided brief highlights of their scouting experience. Konrad Rustenburg and Vladimir Whitehead also attended.
Ignite your son or daughter’s sense of adventure this summer through Scouting America. There is still time to plan for Summer Camp at Boxwell Scout Reservation (ages 11-17) or Day Adventure Camp in Lafayette (1-5th grade) among other events during the year. Information for younger youth: Cubmaster, Ronnie Butler, Jr. (615-489-7412); older youth, call Scoutmaster, Josh Pedigo (615-633-2080). Information provided by Vivian Reynolds, photo by Ephraim Rodenbach, Scouting America leaders.
Free Baked Potato Bar hosted by For His Glory Ministries
For His Glory invites the community to a delicious fundraising dinner on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at lower level of the Library, across from Dominos, located at 215 Main Street, in Carthage, TN.
Guests can enjoy a free baked potato bar with all the fixings including bbq, butter, sour cream, green onions, bacon bits and shredded cheese.
Tiger Football Booster Club Brings “Big Little Brawlers” Wrestling Spectacle to the Smith County Ag Center
Get ready for body slams, headlocks, and high-octane entertainment as the Tiger Football Booster Club proudly presents an unforgettable evening with Big Little Brawlers — the original “Micro” professional wrestling organization, as seen on the Discovery Channel reality show!
This high-energy, family-friendly event will take place at the Smith County Ag Center on Sunday, May 18, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. and the action kicking off at 6:00 p.m. Fans of all ages will be thrilled by the showmanship, athleticism, and charisma of this one-of-a-kind wrestling crew, whose talents have captured the attention of national audiences.
Tickets are available now and are priced to accommodate everyone:
- Row 4 & Behind – $25
- Row 2 & 3 – $36
- Ringside – $47
The show promises an electrifying night of entertainment, with an impressive lineup of micro wrestlers showcasing their moves and larger-than-life personalities. Whether you’re a seasoned wrestling fan or just looking for a fun community event, Big Little Brawlers guarantees an action-packed night you won’t want to miss.
Local businesses like SAV-WAY and Bates Ford are proud sponsors of the event, supporting both the athleticism of the performers and the community spirit of the Smith County Tigers.
To grab your seats, visit www.microwrestling.com or call/text Jack at 513-519-3287.
Don’t miss your chance to witness the original micro wrestling phenomenon up close — a night of excitement, laughs, and unforgettable memories awaits!
DTC Communitcations Names New CEO
DTC Communications is pleased to announce the appointment of Kasey Krueger as the new Chief Executive Officer of the cooperative. With over a decade of senior leadership experience in the telecommunications industry, Krueger most recently served as Assistant CEO at Pioneer Communications in Ulysses, Kansas. His previous roles included Director of Marketing and Chief Customer Officer. He earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Management and Marketing from Kansas State University and a Master of Business Administration from Kansas Wesleyan University. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Krueger actively serves on various community, economic development, and telecommunications industry boards.
“I am excited to join the DTC family and am eager to connect with the employees and the communities we serve,” Krueger said. “DTC Communications has an established history of serving its members well, and that comes down to a dedicated Board of Directors and employees that care about their neighbors.”
Joining Krueger are his wife, Michelle, a former preschool teacher, their daughter Arrow, and son Hayes. With a lifelong commitment to cooperatives, he has a strong understanding of a member-focused business model and a deep appreciation for the cooperative spirit. “The DTC Board of Directors and leadership team have established a strong vision, and I look forward to continuing the great work that DTC has been doing,” Krueger said. “I am proud to have the opportunity to lead DTC into the future.”
“Krueger’s exceptional qualifications, strong leadership, and industry knowledge make him a tremendous asset to DTC,” said Bennie Curtis, DTC Board President. “His strategic vision and experience will be instrumental in guiding DTC’s continued growth and success while upholding our dedication to our members.”
DTC Communications is a member-owned telecommunications cooperative established in 1951. DTC provides world-class broadband and technology solutions to improve the quality of life of our members and communities in the regions we serve.
Smith County Democrats Announces 2025 Leadership Team
The Smith County Democratic Party officially elected its 2025 Board Members and Executive Committee. The meeting marked a new chapter for the local party as it looks ahead to a year of civic engagement, community outreach, and organizational growth.
Pictured from left to right are: Daniel Hawthorne (Chair), Lora Sullens, Mark Schwartz, Ashley Massey (Vice Chair), Glen Kirby, Ron Shumake, Greta Kirby, and Anne Waggoner. Also elected but not pictured are: Katie Penny, Keith Waggoner, and Marilyn Shumake.
Monthly meetings are open to the public and take place on the third Saturday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in the basement of the Carthage Library, located at 215 Main Street. All Democrats, as well as community members interested in learning more or getting involved, are encouraged to attend.
Youth Soccer Skills Camp – Registration Coming Soon
The Youth Soccer Skills Camp is coming this summer from June 3rd to June 5th at the Smith County Soccer Complex, and it’s the perfect chance for young athletes to level up their game. Designed for students entering Kindergarten through 8th Grade for the 2025–2026 school year, the camp runs daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and costs just $45 per participant.
This fun and instructional camp will focus on fundamental skills, teamwork, and building confidence on the field—all in a supportive and energetic environment. Whether your child is new to soccer or looking to sharpen their skills, this camp offers something for everyone.
Registration is now open. To secure your place, register and pay online at the following link: https://gofan.co/event/3388836?schoolId=TN8689.
For more information, feel free to contact 615-735-9219 or email nicholus.bussell@smithcoedu.net.
Tech’s Appalachian Center for Craft announces 2025 summer workshop season
Tennessee Tech University’s Appalachian Center for Craft will host more than 30 workshops for the community over the months of May and June as part of its 2025 summer workshop season. Topics range from bladesmithing and bookbinding to glassblowing, wood turning, raku pottery, sourdough bread and more.
Workshops are taught by craft artists from across the country who will converge at the Craft Center to share techniques and inspire creative growth. Open to adults 18 and older, the workshops are designed to accommodate a range of skill levels, from novice to advanced.
The Craft Center seeks to provide quality craft education and a space for creative retreat through its summer workshops —all offered in a serene setting that invites creative exploration and immersive learning for all.
“We invite you to take some time for yourself and make something! Experience the transformative impact of hands-on learning in a community of craft enthusiasts and makers,” said Ashley Lusietto, program manager for the Appalachian Center for Craft.
The Craft Center is located off Highway 56 between Silver Point and Smithville, on the northeast side of Hurricane Bridge. Situated on over 500 wooded acres, the campus overlooks Center Hill Lake in scenic Middle Tennessee. The Craft Center features over 87,000 square feet of spacious studios, a retail store, exhibition galleries, a cafe, on-campus housing, and more. Weekend and weeklong workshop participants are invited to purchase on-site room and board, with meals catered by Chartwells. Workshop guests are also welcome to purchase lunch.
Workshops require online registration and payment of at least 50% of the tuition to reserve a seat. Participants are responsible for room and board as well as material fees, if applicable. A 25% discount on tuition is available for Tennessee Tech students, faculty, and staff, in addition to residents of Putnam, Dekalb, Smith and White counties.
For more information, including workshop policies, room and board details, and a schedule with workshop descriptions and instructor bios, visit our website: https://www.tntech.edu/fine-arts/craftcenter/summer.php.
Connect with the Appalachian Center for Craft on Instagram or Facebook using the handle @TNTechCraftCenter.
The Appalachian Center for Craft is a campus of the nationally accredited School of Art, Craft & Design within the College of Fine Arts at Tennessee Tech University. Its mission is to promote excellence in American craft by teaching both tradition and innovation in professional studio craft and fostering access to the highest quality craft education, craft artists, craft works and events in a community arts context. photos & article submitted by Ashley Lusietto
Ceramics by Susan DeMay featured at Carthage Junction Depot April 26th
The Carthage Junction Depot welcomes renowned ceramics artist, Susan DeMay for a one-day event Saturday, April 26. Her work will be on display and available for purchase from 10-4pm. Ms. DeMay will be answering questions and meeting the public at the formal reception from 1-3.
Susan DeMay produces functional and decorative stoneware pottery and other artistic forms, such as wall works, sculptural vases, and tile projects. She maintains a studio, Made by deMay, in Smithville, Tennessee with the help of a number of assistants. Her work includes a production line of tabletop wares as well as a series of art pieces. All clay work uses colorful glazes with a variety of surfaces, put together to create rich, expressive palettes and distinctive designs. Each series has evolved from many years of working with electric kilns fired to cone six.
Susan DeMay was raised on a farm in Palmyra, New York. She was in the last graduating class before the merger between George Peabody College for Teachers and Vanderbilt University. She was subsequently brought on to the faculty of the Art and Art History Department to teach ceramics part time. for nearly two years. A short break allowed for nearly a year in Europe on a Belgium Cultural Exchange Grant; and then for studies at the Appalachian Center for Craft in Smithville, Tennessee, and to finally establish her own studio there.
Susan returned to Vanderbilt in 1985 and settled into a dual career as a professor and studio artist. Her ceramics studio produced several production lines, most famously sold at the Smithsonian Museum Stores. Susan continued to experiment with wall works and sculptural works. In 2003 she shifted the balance of her work to full time teaching and scaled down her studio operations. She has kept active professionally by presenting and demonstrating at the National Conference of Ceramics Educators. She has written numerous articles that have appeared in national and international publications and books. Her work has been included in five Lark Book Series and books for beginners studying clay. The latest book was The Best of 500 Ceramics: Celebrating a Decade in Clay. “Sixty-four prominent contemporary ceramic artists served as jurors for this special edition, each selecting what he or she found to be the most technically masterful, stylistically inventive, and historically important pieces featured in the ceramics books of the Lark’s 500 Series.”
Susan conducts numerous glazing workshops in the region and participates in many exhibitions around the Southeast. Her work can be found in public and private collections. Susan currently teaches ceramics at Cumberland University, where she has taught on and off since 2010, when she taught the first solely clay class there.
We hope you all will join us in warmly welcoming Susan to Smith County by visiting on April 26.
Carthage Junction Depot is located at 185 Gordonsville Highway, Brush Creek, TN. It is home to monthly arts events highlighting the creative work of regional artists and craftsmen. You can find out more information about upcoming events and exhibits at the Depot on the Events tab on the Carthage Junction Depot facebook page or via Smith County Chamber of Commerce publications..
Second Harvest Mobile Food Truck Wednesday, April 23rd
The Second Harvest Food Truck will be at the Smith County Agriculture Center on Wednesday, April 23rd. The truck generally arrives at 10 a.m. Volunteers work to unload the truck and get the food ready for pick-up shortly after. Food is distributed until it is gone. Cars line up around the Ag Center early. Those hoping to receive food at this distribution are encouraged to be in line no later than 10 a.m.
The food trucks are sponsored by the Hunger Relief Fund of Smith County and grants from Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle TN. Churches, businesses and individuals donate to the hunger relief fund all year. Usually two dates are scheduled each month. For more information feel free to contact the Smith County Chamber of Commerce 615-735-2093.
Smith County Chamber Corner Show – April 2025
Check out the April 2025 edition of the Smith County Chamber Corner Show!
This month’s show features local businesses, community organization and events going on in and around Smith County.
If you would like to promote your event or local business on the Smith County Chamber Corner Show, contact the Smith County Chamber of Commerce by calling 615-735-2093 today.
Watch the full show below, or catch it on DTC3 TV.
Smith County Owls Men’s Soccer Keeps Momentum Going
On Tuesday April 8, 2025 Smith County Owls hosted Monterey in the first District match between the two teams. The Owls were coming off of a District win vs York the week before and were looking to start a streak of wins. The first goal of this game came with 14 minutes left in the first half. Aldrin Jimenez scored the opener with an assist from Adyn Elliott. A few minutes later Elliott would score with the assist from Bradley Pickett. The score of 2-0 would stand into the half time break.
Less than two minutes into the second half, Adyn Elliott would again score this time with an assist from Jarrain Smith. With 29 minutes on the clock Smith County would be awarded a penalty kick that was taken by Elliott and netted him a hat trick for the night. Jarrain Smith came back to add a Goal to his assist bringing the score to 5-0 and 12 minutes left in the game. There were several more attempts but then, with less than a minute remaining, Gavin Kemp scored with an assist to Bradley Pickett. Kemp had been sidelined with an injury for a month so scoring on his return was quite the lift for him. So with 6-0 win and a clean sheet for Keeper James Bunn in the books and the second District win, the Owls had a great evening on the pitch.
Thursday April 10 Smith County traveled to Jackson County for another District match. This one would go a bit differently. The Owls would have 30 shots to Jackson County’s 10. The Blue Devils would strike first scoring with 16 minutes left in the first half. Adyn Elliott assisted by Eli Spain would bring it level with only 8 seconds in the half. The second half opened in the first minute with another Jackson County Goal bringing it to 2-1. At the 26 minute mark Zane Felice would net a beautiful goal with a cross from Gavin Kemp, once again bringing it level. Jackson County would go on to score twice more on the Owls ending the game with an Owl loss of 4-2. This is the first time the Blue Devils have won against Smith County.
The Jackson County game was a set back but the Owls are resilient and growing. The two teams will meet again on April 22nd at Smith County, this will also be the Owls Senior Night. On Tuesday April 15 Smith County will travel to Macon County for a non District match up. Thursday there is no game due to Cannon’s withdrawal. photos and article submitted by Vivian Schaffers
Evan Boyd Receives Resolution at State Capital
On Wednesday, April 9, Gordonsville High School student Evan Boyd was honored at the Tennessee State Capitol for his extraordinary bravery. Recognized by Congressman Michael Hale on the House floor and Senator Paul Bailey on the Senate floor, Evan received official resolutions for his courageous response during a potentially dangerous incident earlier this year.
Back on January 9, during an eighth-grade class, Evan noticed what appeared to be a gun in a classmate’s waistband. Acting swiftly, he disarmed the student, alerted the teacher, and helped secure the weapon. Later the weapon was identified as a BB gun that appeared indistinguishable from a real firearm. His actions prompted an immediate lockdown and response from law enforcement.
Evan’s quick thinking and selfless bravery earned widespread praise from the community, school officials, and law enforcement. “I’d rather me get shot than them,” Evan said, speaking about his classmates.
The Smith County Board of Education commended Evan and the staff involved, stating that the district’s safety plan was executed flawlessly. Counselors were made available following the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Gordonsville High is incredibly proud of Evan and grateful to Congressman Hale and Senator Bailey for honoring his heroic actions. Evan Boyd’s courage has made him a true hometown hero.
Smith County Amateur Radio Club Hosts Meeting
The Smith County Amateur Radio Club will meet Monday April 21 at the Chamber of Commerce in Carthage. The topic is Antenna Feed Lines. Anyone is invited to attend. Contact Larry Puhl for further information 224 489 4330.
