TWRA to Host Second Annual Tennessee Biodiversity Summit
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has announced the second annual Tennessee Biodiversity Summit will take place on October 21, 2026, at Middle Tennessee State University. All wildlife enthusiasts, including experts, birdwatchers, hunters, and anyone interested in nature, are invited to participate in this experience packed with opportunities to learn about wildlife diversity, habitats, and conservation in Tennessee.
The theme of this year’s event is “Moving the Needle, Wins in Conservation.” Eight dynamic speakers will deliver presentations focused on successes in conservation work across the state. Participants will also hear updates on the State Wildlife Action Plan, a federally guided blueprint to prevent biodiversity decline, and on the Red-cockaded Woodpecker reintroduction plan, announced at the inaugural summit last year. The event also hosts 21 partnering agency booths where attendees can further learn about conservation efforts and ways to get involved in conservation efforts.
Because of the overwhelmingly positive response in the 2025 summit, this year’s event attendance has been capped at 900 participants. Josh Campbell, TWRA’s Chief of Biodiversity, stated, “We’re heartened by the overwhelming response to this event and the interest in the health of the state’s wildlife diversity. The 2026 summit will be equally captivating.”
Those traveling from out of town or those in the area the day before the event have the option to register pre-event hikes taking place at two locations. Registration is currently open and more information can be found on the more can be found on the Tennessee Biodiversity webpage.
Event sponsors include the Greg A. Vital Center for Natural Resources and Conservation at Cleveland State Community College, Tennessee Valley Authority, and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.
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.
Two Drivers Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on I-40 Near Gordonsville
A tragic two-vehicle crash on Interstate 40 near the Gordonsville exit claimed the lives of two drivers late Sunday night.
At approximately 11:30 p.m. Sunday, emergency crews from Smith County Rescue, Gordonsville Fire Department, Smith EMS, and local law enforcement responded to a serious accident at mile marker 258 eastbound on I-40. Upon arrival, responders determined that both drivers had died at the scene. No passengers were found in either vehicle.
According to preliminary information, one of the vehicles was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes when it collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle.
Rescue personnel from Smith County Rescue and the Gordonsville Fire Department worked together to extricate both drivers from their heavily damaged vehicles.
As of 2:12 a.m. Monday, Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers remained on the scene conducting their investigation. Eastbound traffic on I-40 continued to be diverted at Exit 258 in Gordonsville while crews worked the scene.
Officials expressed their appreciation to the volunteers of Smith County Rescue and the Gordonsville Fire Department for their quick response during the overnight emergency and praised the outstanding teamwork demonstrated by both departments.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by wrong-way drivers and the dedication of first responders who answer the call at any hour.
Winners Announced for 2026-27 Tennessee Wildlife Calendar Contest
The winning entries for the 2026-27 Tennessee Wildlife magazine photo contest have been selected by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and will appear in the annual calendar, starting in August.
TWRA staff had the challenging task of narrowing the entries to 14 photos that will appear in the calendar issue. The other entries will be kept on file and could have the opportunity to appear in future agency publications and on the agency’s website.
The photographers with this year’s selected entries are Adam Bajo-Walker (Knoxville), Steve Corneius (Goodlettsville), Nick Dancy (Germantown), Bill Gelsleichter (Crossville), Phillip Grubb (Mascot), Bob Howdehell (Maryville), Timothy Loyd (Hendersonville), Rick McCulley (Rockwood), Michael Pachis (Memphis), Ryan Rice (Jonesborough), Kipp Shipley (Gallatin), Harvey Sullivan (Morristown), and Todd Winn (Memphis).
The staff of Tennessee Wildlife congratulates the winners and reminds photographers that if your photo was not chosen, next year’s entry could be a winner. Rules and deadlines for the next Tennessee Wildlife photo contest will be available in future issues of the magazine and on the TWRA website. Photographers will again be invited to submit their best photos of fish and wildlife species native to the Volunteer State, and fishing and hunting scenes 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.
Tennessee Tech sails through 10-year reaccreditation with full compliance and zero recommendations
Smith County Chamber Corner Show – June 2026
Check out the June 2026 edition of the Smith County Chamber Corner Show featuring Wild Bill and everything Smith County Fair.
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.
Jackson County Green Market Launches to Support Local Homesteaders and Regenerative Farming in Gainesboro
The Jackson County Green Market, a new community farmers market dedicated to supporting local homesteaders and regenerative agricultural practices, announces its launch in Gainesboro, Tennessee. The market’s first market day will be Saturday, June 20, 2026.
The market will operate every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 3013 S. Grundy Quarles Highway, beginning with its inaugural market on Saturday, June 20, 2026. It will provide Jackson County residents with fresh, locally grown produce, value-added products, and direct connections to the farmers and homesteaders who produce them.
The Green Market emphasizes regenerative practices that restore soil health, support biodiversity, and build resilient local food systems. It also focuses on education, helping community members understand the benefits of small-scale agriculture and how to support it through direct farmer-to-consumer relationships. “Local farmer to consumer is the future. We support homesteader growers and are providing food and
education to strengthen our community,” said Mickie Davis, Market Manager and homesteader. “We’re excited to create a vibrant marketplace that champions small agriculture and regenerative farming right here in Jackson County.” The market is led by a board of local homesteaders: Market Manager Mickie Davis, Connor Buckingham, Kara Iskar, and Tammy Dycus. Local producers interested in becoming vendors or community members wanting to learn more or get involved are encouraged to reach out.
ABOUT THE JACKSON COUNTY GREEN MARKET
The Jackson County Green Market is a farmers market serving Gainesboro and Jackson County, Tennessee. Committed to “local soil, local hands,” it supports homesteader growers and small agricultural producers who use regenerative practices. The market provides a vibrant venue for fresh, healthy food, fosters direct farmer-to-consumer connections, and promotes education about sustainable local agriculture. For vendor inquiries, market updates, or more information, visit jcgreenmarket.com or email marketmanager@jcgreenmarket.com
TWRA Releases 2026 Tennessee Spring Turkey Harvest Report
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) reports the state’s spring turkey hunting season resulted in a harvest of 34,990 birds, the fourth-highest reported harvest on record. It is the best harvest since the 2020 COVID record season and ranks behind only the 2006 and 2010 seasons overall.
The 2026 spring harvest is a 13 percent increase over the previous 5-year average of 31,038. A total of 28,266 hunters harvested at least one turkey, which is 19 percent greater than the 5-year average of successful hunters (23,703). Mature toms comprised 92 percent of the harvest, with only 8 percent of the harvest being jakes.
“I was very pleased with the harvest we had this year, and I really expected we’d have more of an average year—up from last year, but nothing like what we experienced,” said Roger Shields, TWRA Wild Turkey Program Coordinator. “I never expected we’d see the harvest we did. But relatively good turkey hatches for the past few years, combined with favorable weather throughout the season, helped to produce a near record harvest year. I’ll certainly take it.”
All five Turkey Management Units (TMU) recorded an increase over the five-year average. The West unit had the greatest increase (52 percent) with a record harvest of 1,411. The Central unit led in terms of total harvest with 17,197, a 17 percent increase from the five-year average. The Midwest unit’s harvest of 5,174 was a 10 percent increase, and the Southeast and Northeast units both increased 4 percent, with harvests of 4,357 and 6,851, respectively.
Tennessee’s harvest followed a pattern across much of the Southeast and Midwest. Several states, including Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Missouri, reported record or near-record harvests this spring.
As spring wraps up and summer approaches, the TWRA also wants to announce that the 2026 wild turkey summer observation survey is underway. Survey participants help the TWRA monitor the state’s wild turkey population by reporting wild turkey sightings. For more information on the survey and how to participate, visit www.tn.gov/twra/turkeyobs.
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.
GHS Alumni Fundraising Meal
Attention:
Pre-sale Tickets are now available For The Tiger Football Booster Club Alumni, Family and Friends Supper on June 20th @ the Ag Center in South Carthage. This is going to be a Special Night for our Booster Club as we celebrate the past and present Alumni, Families, Friends. The Tiger Football Booster Club invites you to come and enjoy.
Mr Mark Medley will be the MC and we have some great Speakers that will be there.
Doors open around 5 pm and supper will start around 6 pm. Tickets can be purchased online on Tiger Football Booster Club Facebook Page by Venmo or Cash App or by contacting Booster Club Members. You can contact Eddie Sykes or Penny Kinslow for tickets.
Tickets are limited so make sure to get yours. This is a Fundraiser Event for the Tiger Football Booster Club as we support the High School
Jr High, and Flag Football Teams
Tickets are $25.00 for the event. We will also offer Gordonsville Merchandise For Sale and Family Membership to the Booster Club can be purchased for $25.00 that night.
The Tiger Football Booster Club in working with the School are trying to provide all we can to help these young athletes to have the best experience during their time at Gordonsville.
History runs deep in our community and we are always looking to do things better and leave it better than we found it.
Come on out and Enjoy this Event.
Again Saturday June 20th at the Ag Center in South Carthage doors open around 5 pm
Thanks
Tiger Football Booster Club
Defeated Creek Bluegrass Festival
Make plans to attend 2 nights of entertainment. The proceeds go to support the Defeated Creek Volunteer Fire Department. These men do a terrific job supporting their local community, so come out & support them! Eat, relax & listen to some good ole Bluegrass music. Don’t miss it. Location is the Defeated Creek Park
TDHS to Provide Summer Nutrition Initiative Benefits to Eligible Families in Select Counties Starting June 12
NASHVILLE – Today, the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) announced it will provide a $120 one-time payment directly to families in need across 13 counties through the Summer Nutrition Initiative starting Friday, June 12, 2026.
The initiative first launched in 2025 as a state-funded effort to provide additional nutrition assistance to serve families in underserved counties.
“This initiative reflects Tennessee’s commitment to ensuring children have access to nutritious food throughout the summer,” said TDHS Commissioner Clarence H. Carter. “By providing targeted support to families in communities with limited access to summer meal programs, we are helping bridge a critical gap to ensure children receive the nutrition support needed during the summer months.”
The Summer Nutrition Initiative will serve eligible children in 13 counties who are currently enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Families First- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program.
The program will use existing EBT cards to provide the one-time payment to families.
Thirteen counties were identified through Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) data as having limited access to SFSP meal sites and thus qualify to receive the one-time payment. The approved counties include: Bledsoe, Cannon, Clay, DeKalb, Fentress, Hancock, Humphreys, Jackson, Lewis, Marshall, Moore, Sequatchie, and Smith.
The one-time TN Summer Nutrition Initiative benefit is available to children who are:
- Age 5-18 as of May 1, 2026
- Members of an open and active SNAP and/or Families First case as of May 31, 2026
- Residing in Bledsoe, Cannon, Clay, DeKalb, Fentress, Hancock, Humphreys, Jackson, Lewis, Marshall, Moore, Sequatchie, and Smith counties as of May 31, 2026
Eligible households do not need to apply for this benefit. Families in the targeted counties will automatically receive the benefit on their existing EBT cards beginning June 12, 2026. Benefits can be used anywhere where EBT is accepted for purchasing food.
For more information on the Summer Nutrition Initiative, please visit: https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/summer-nutrition-initiative.html.
Following recent approval by the Tennessee General Assembly, Tennessee will transition to participation in the federally funded Summer EBT program beginning in 2027.
ABOUT THE TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES (TDHS)
The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) consists of multiple divisions with a unified mission to strengthen Tennessee by strengthening Tennesseans. Led by governor-appointed Commissioner Clarence H. Carter, TDHS serves nearly two million Tennesseans to ensure that all state residents have an opportunity to reach their full potential as contributing members of their community. Among the many services and programs provided by TDHS, some of the leading programs include the Child Support Program, Child and Adult Day Services and Licensing, Families First (the state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Rehabilitation Services for people with disabilities, and Adult Protective Services, along with many others. TDHS is an organization committed to connecting people with resources that help individuals, families and communities with the support they need to overcome any social, economic and developmental vulnerabilities. For more information, please visit: Tennessee Department of Human Services.
Defeated Creek Bluegrass Festival Returns June 12-13
Music lovers, families, and bluegrass fans are invited to gather for a weekend of entertainment and community spirit at the annual Defeated Creek Bluegrass Festival, set for June 12-13, 2026, at 160 Marina Lane, Carthage, TN 37030.
This family-friendly event filled with live bluegrass music, dancing, and fellowship offers live music and supports a good local cause. The event continues to be a favorite annual tradition, offering an environment for families to spend time together while enjoying some bluegrass entertainment. Friday night’s lineup will feature Bluegrass Solutions and Avery Trace, while Saturday night’s performances will include Mountain Ridge Five and Clearview. Festival-goers can also enjoy dancing both nights by the Evermean Evergreens, adding even more excitement to the weekend festivities.
As in previous years, all proceeds from the festival will benefit the Defeated Creek Fire Department, helping support the department’s ongoing efforts to serve and protect the community.
Mark your calendars, invite friends and family, and come out for two days of music, fun, and support for a worthy cause. The Defeated Creek Bluegrass Festival is an event not to be missed.
Underwood Hometown Realty to sponsor Foam Party at 2026 Gordonsville PLAY Day
Families in Gordonsville are invited to enjoy a day of excitement, learning, and community spirit at the Gordonsville Play Day Touch-A-Truck Event, hosted by the Gordonsville Police Department and the Gordonsville Events Committee. The free event will take place at Ivy Agee Park on Saturday, June 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Designed for children of all ages, the event offers a unique opportunity to get up close to a variety of emergency and service vehicles. Guests can see, touch, explore, and even honk the horns of vehicles from local agencies, including law enforcement, fire and rescue services, EMS, the National Guard, utility providers, and other community organizations.
To ensure an inclusive experience, a special sensory-friendly hour will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for children with special needs or sensory sensitivities.
In addition to the vehicles, attendees can enjoy a foam party sponsored by Underwood Hometown Realty, along with food, a bounce house, face painting, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Organizers encourage guests to bring a towel and a change of clothes, as the ladder truck will be spraying water during the event.
The Gordonsville Play Day Touch-A-Truck event is a celebration of community connections and a chance for residents to meet their local heroes while enjoying a fun-filled summer day. Admission is free, making it a perfect outing for families across Smith County and the surrounding area.
Food for Thought – Avoid Wedding Blues
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue-hopefully planning your wedding does not make you blue. Planning a wedding can be an exciting time for all family members involved. However, it can also be a stressful time as so many decisions have to be made. You may be asking yourself questions, such as how can I include my step father in the wedding, or how do I get my guests to RSVP? The following are tips to make planning your big day less stressful.
- Avoid broadcasting the news of your engagement to social networks before sharing with your family. Parents and children from a previous marriage should be told first before the news is public knowledge.
- Determine your budget. Decide how much you can afford and are willing to spend. This will help you prioritize major decisions, such as the number of guests and the venue.
- Create a detailed list of everything you want included in the wedding. It does not matter how small or inconsequential the detail may seem, make sure to write it down on your list. This is helpful as you can check tasks off your list as they are completed.
- Collect ideas. Make a private Pinterest Board or clip photos of cakes, flowers, gowns, etc. from magazines and put in a folder. This makes it easier to show vendors exactly what you want.
- Do your research in order to find the best price and source for various vendors and services. Don’t mention the w-word when first checking prices, as ‘wedding service’ prices may be higher.
- Ask for wedding help instead of wedding gifts from family members and close friends. Maybe your uncle is a great photographer or your aunt is a wonderful hairdresser and they would love to share their talents with you to help on your special day.
- Hopefully your guest will take note of the deadline to RSVP, but if they do not it is acceptable to follow up with a phone call or message. After all, you do not want to pay for guest that will not be attending.
- An agenda is important for all family members, bridal party and vendors on your wedding day. Clear and transparent communication is important to ensure that everyone knows what is expected. You do not want anyone to miss the bridal party photos!
- When it comes to weddings almost anything goes these days. Make your wedding fit your personal style and taste. Don’t feel the need to follow tradition or please everyone.
- Remember common courtesy. If someone thinks enough of you to give you a wedding gift a personal handwritten thank you note is still in order.
As we welcome wedding season here, it is of great significance to focus on what is most important on your wedding day, committing to a lifelong relationship. May your marriage be as beautiful as your wedding!
Strawberry Delight
1 angel food cake
1-quart strawberries, sliced
1 package strawberry gel
8 oz cream cheese
¾ cup milk
1 cup powdered sugar
8 oz Cool Whip
Tear cake into pieces and put in 9 x 13” pan. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add milk and Cool Whip and pour over cake. Mix strawberries and gel and pour on top. Refrigerate.
If you don’t have gel: mix 1 cup sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1 cup of water. Boil until thick and clear. Add ½ box strawberry Jell-O and stir until dissolved. Cool and add strawberries.
Submitted by: Judy Long, Gordonsville FCE Club
TWRA Reminds Middle Tennesseans that Black Bears are on the Move
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is reminding residents across Middle Tennessee that black bears are on the move this spring and early summer. Several counties have reported black bear sightings in recent weeks, including Hickman, Dickson, Wilson, and Sumner counties.
Tennessee’s black bear population is primarily concentrated on the Cumberland Plateau and throughout East Tennessee, but historically their range covered the entire state. Tennessee’s neighboring states also have expanding bear populations. Each spring, yearling bears disperse from their mothers in search of their new home range. During these travels, bears may appear in areas of Middle Tennessee where bear sightings are less common, but always possible. Learn more about what bears are doing in June here.
A bear passing through a neighborhood is not cause for alarm. If it is lingering, it likely has found easily accessible food, called attractants, like unsecured garbage, pet food, or bird seed and will keep coming back as long as attractants remain available.
The best approach to prevent unwanted bear encounters is to secure attractants that bring bears near homes and populated areas. Black bears do not view humans as prey but will learn to associate humans with food if they are continually rewarded with free meals from garbage cans, pet food, birdfeeders, or other human food sources.
TWRA encourages Tennesseans to report bear sightings through the agency’s “I Saw A Bear” reporting system. Sighting reports help wildlife biologists monitor bear movements and better understand the species’ distribution across the state.
For more information about living responsibly in bear country and reducing conflicts with bears, visit BearWise.org, a comprehensive educational resource dedicated to helping people coexist safely with black bears.
Follow the BearWise® Basics:
- Never feed or approach
- Secure food, garbage, and recycling
- Remove bird feeders when bears are active
- Never leave pet food outdoors
- Clean and store grills and smokers
- Alert neighbors to bear activity
By taking simple precautions, Tennesseans can help keep bears wild and people safe!
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.
River City Ball Donates Over $35,000 to Local Non-profits and Graduating Seniors
Photographed left to right, Billy Woodard-Smith County Imagination Library, Ashley Webster, Jerry Solimine, Melissa Hebert, Jordan Stilwell, Johnny Ray Brown- Smith County Mentorship Program, Virginia Alexander, Kristie Glover, Dr. Melanie Cripps-Carthage Family Chiropractic, Samantha Taylor
The 8th Annual River City Ball presented by Travorium and hosted at Catesa Farms was held on May 9, 2026. For the fifth year, Catesa Farms has generously hosted the event. As the event continues to grow and gain support, this year over 325 people attended the event in “La Dolce Vita” themed attire to raise funds for the beneficiary.
At the annual Smith County Chamber of Commerce banquet, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the River City Ball Committee donated $31,000 to this year’s primary beneficiary, the Smith County Mentorship Program.
Photographed left to right, Billy Woodard-Smith County Imagination Library, Jordan Stilwell, Jerry Solimine, Virginia Alexander, Kristie Glover, Samantha Taylor, Johnny Ray Brown- Smith County Mentorship Program
The Smith County Mentorship Program is a deserving local initiative with a powerful mission. This program exists to equip our youth with the foundational principles for personal success in life. Its focus is to guide children and teens toward building strong character, developing life skills, and finding hope for their futures. Many of the children in this program come from high-risk households, facing challenges that no child should face alone. The program bridges the gap between home, school, and community, ensuring each child has consistent, caring mentors who model stability, kindness, and accountability.
Currently, the Smith County Mentorship Program serves, feeds, and mentors 20–25 elementary-aged children each week. The mentors have already seen results such as:
- A reduction in negative behaviors at school
- Increased food stability and family connection
- Stronger confidence and social skills
- Intervention and support for breaking cycles of substance abuse
With the funds raised from the 2026 River City Ball, the program hopes to expand its elementary-age outreach, hire additional mentors, and provide more meals, activities, and resources for the children it serves. These mentors are reaching where few will—helping kids rise above stigma, generational struggles, and instability. They are shaping futures one child at a time, and we want to help them grow. The main idea is connecting potential to purpose.
Again, this year, the funds raised through the donations of Golden Tickets during the event went to a second beneficiary. This cause was chosen from the original applicants, and the local Imagination Library was the recipient of $3,400. These funds will help cover books for children from birth to five years of age who live in Smith County. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library encourages parents to be a child’s first teacher and begin building oral language skills through the books mailed directly to a child’s home. The mission is to foster a lifelong love of reading and learning and give every child an equal start in education regardless of their family’s income.
Continuing with the purpose of the River City Ball which was to improve the quality of life in Smith County, each year Carthage Family Chiropractic generously provides a $1,500 scholarship to two graduating seniors in Smith County. Applicants for the scholarship complete an essay discussing the importance of the River City Ball and the organization being sponsored. The applications are submitted to the committee anonymously and scored based on alignment and content. Scholarships were presented to Kali Underwood from Gordonsville High School and David (Joey) Wright from Smith County High School.
The River City Ball greatly appreciates all the sponsors that went into making this event possible. Please make sure to follow the event on Facebook and Instagram for the most up to date information.
If you are interested in applying to be a sponsor or the cause for 2027, please reach out to the committee through social media or at rivercityball@outlook.com
Planning for the 2027 River City Ball will begin in August and the event will be held May 8 at Catesa Farms. We hope to see you there!
GHS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT: Photographed left to right, Kali Underwood and Bethany Walton of Carthage Family Chiropractic
SCHS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT: Photographed left to right, David (Joey) Wright and Bethany Walton of Carthage Family Chiropractic
