Heartland Real Estate and Auction is hosting an online-only auction. This auction contains high quality household goods, tools, furniture and much more.

All bidding will take place online. Bidding ends on Tuesday, December 5th at 10 a.m.

Purchases will be available for pickup on Thursday, December 7th at 521 Robards Circle, Old HIckory TN. No Shipping options. All items sold “as is”. Full terms and conditions available upon registering for the auction.

Riverview Regional Medical Center (RRMC) has been recognized with a 2023 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Quality. RRMC was presented with this award as part of National Rural Health Day on November 16. Compiled by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards honor top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in Quality, Outcomes and/or Patient Perspective.

“At Riverview Regional we are proud to be our community’s choice for healthcare,” said Carolyn Sparks, CEO of Riverview Regional Medical Center. “Focusing on providing quality care that is safe, effective, patient-centered, timely and efficient directly improves the outcomes for our patients, and I think this award proves that commitment to quality at RRMC.”

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health around the country to measure and monitor performance across several areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

“Wherever we go in rural America, we witness first-hand the commitment, determination, and compassion with which rural hospitals serve their communities. Rural healthcare truly is mission-driven,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “This National Rural Health Day, let us recognize the efforts of this year’s Performance Leadership Award winners and all those driven to deliver high quality care throughout rural communities.”

About Riverview Regional Medical Center

Riverview Regional Medical Center (RRMC) is a 35-bed critical access hospital in Carthage, Tennessee. RRMC provides general medical and surgical care, 24-hour emergency services (including an accredited chest pain center), skilled nursing, psychiatric services, childbirth and geriatric care to residents of Smith and surrounding counties. Riverview Regional Medical Center is a facility of HighPoint Health System. To learn more, call 615-735-1560 or visit MyRiverviewMedical.com.

Smith County Agriculture News – By Katie Martin, Smith County Extension Agent

It is that time of year when we are encouraged to reflect on all the many things we have to be thankful for. As someone involved in agriculture on a daily basis, when I think of what I’m grateful for, farmers always make the list. Not only do they help put food on our tables, fuel in our cars, and clothes on our backs, but they work as environmentalists caring for the soil and other natural resources, they work as educators teaching the next generation about agriculture, and they work as advocates to ensure American agriculture and the rural way of life can endure.

If you haven’t stopped lately to think about how important farming and agriculture are, not just globally, but right here at home in Smith County, you might be interested to know that in Tennessee, agriculture and forestry contribute over $81 billion to the economy and employees over 342,000 people. In our county alone agriculture output has a total estimated economic impact of $169.2 million with over 1,300 jobs generated by agriculture in the county.

When you look at the diversity of agriculture commodities in our county you see farmers working hard to produce everything from cattle, sheep, goats, hay, wheat, corn, soybeans, tobacco, watermelons, pumpkins, strawberries, peaches, blueberries, mushrooms, all kinds of vegetables, flowers, and so much more. Farmers and agriculture organizations in our county support youth in 4-H and FFA, provide scholarships, host livestock shows, volunteer for the Smith County Fair and other worthy causes. They sit on advisory boards, and hold leadership roles in the community, all while providing top-quality care for their land and livestock. It’s not an easy job, but I’m thankful for those that do it.

While you may pay a little more at the store for your Thanksgiving meal this year, I am thankful to live in a world with hardworking farmers who produce a safe and abundant food supply. A wise farmer once told me, “When you have plenty of food to eat, you have many problems. When you have no food to eat, there is only one problem.”

For further information about UT Extension- Smith County, please visit our website at smith.tennessee.edu or call our office at 615-735-2900.

Smith County Sheriff’s Office K9s Braun and Udo have received bullet and stab protective vests thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Both vests were sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. through the Amazon Smile donor percentage purchase program and embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,350 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

The members of DeKalb-Smithville #374, The Order of the Eastern Star, have collected over 400 new and gently used stuffed animals from the good neighbors of two counties in Tennessee. They were distributed to the First Responders: the Sheriffs, Police, Ambulance Center, Fire Department of DeKalb and Smith Counties in Tennessee, and others. These organizations use the stuffed animals to comfort families especially the children in traumatic and emotional situations that involve their services.

NASHVILLE — Tennessee’s 2023-24 statewide gun hunting season for deer opens Saturday, Nov. 18. The season traditionally opens each year on the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving. During gun season, sportsmen may also use muzzleloaders or archery equipment.

The statewide bag limit for antlered bucks is two. No more than one antlered deer may be taken per day, not to exceed two for the season. Hunters are allowed the following antlerless bag limits: Unit L-three per day, Unit A-two per season, Unit B-one per season, Unit C-one per season (Nov. 18-Dec. 3 only), and Unit D-one per season (Nov. 18-24 only).

In Unit CWD, there is a limit of three antlerless deer per day with no season limit. A bag limit of three antlered deer applies in Unit CWD, too. However, the bag limit of three antlered deer may be exceeded within Unit CWD if taken under the Earn-A-Buck Program or the Replacement Buck Program. Details on each of the programs are on page 30 of the 2023-24 Tennessee Hunting and Trapping Guide.

Anyone born on or after January 1, 1969 is required to carry proof of satisfactory completion of a hunter education class or be in possession of the Apprentice Hunter Education Permit (along with other required licenses) while hunting any species in Tennessee. Hunter education can be completed online for free along with other options.

For more information about Tennessee’s 2023-24 deer hunting seasons, exact boundaries of deer units, and complete license requirements refer to the 2023-24

Tennessee Hunting and Trapping Guide available online at tnwildlife.org or the TWRA App. Physical copies can be picked up at an agency office or license agent retail location.

The Smith County Heritage Museum is decked out for the Christmas Season.

Each year, the Smith County Heritage museum releases a collectible Christmas ornament featuring a notable scene or landmark from somewhere in Smith County. This year’s limited edition Christmas ornament theme is Preserving the Past.

Ornaments can be purchased at the museum or the Smith County Chamber of Commerce for $10 each.

In addition, the museum also has mugs, ‘Play Smith County’ board games, T-shirts, hats, toboggans, all natural soaps & lotions, and much more that would make great Christmas gifts. The Smith County History Books are also available for purchase at the Smith County Museum and Smith County Chamber of Commerce for $125.00

The Smith County Heritage Museum invites you to stop by, tour the museum, and do a little shopping. All of the proceeds goes towards the operational expenses of the museum to ensure that it stays open for years to come. There are 7 beautiful Christmas trees decorated by various clubs , organizations and individuals from around Smith County. When you visit the museum, pick your favorite Christmas tree. The tree with the most votes will receive a prize. Additionally each person who votes will also be put in a drawing for a special prize.

The Smith County Heritage Museum is located at 107 3rd Avenue East in Carthage, Tennessee. The museum is open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. If you have any questions, please call 615-735-1104.

Louisville, Ky. (November 9, 2023) – Farm Credit Mid-America is now accepting applications for its Customer Scholarship and Farm Credit Mid-America Scholars programs. Children or grandchildren of Farm Credit Mid-America customers as well as college students who plan to pursue a career in agriculture are encouraged to apply. Scholarship recipients are chosen based on academic performance, leadership qualities, community involvement and passion for promoting and being part of the future of agriculture.

An employment outlook by Purdue and the United States Department of Agriculture estimated jobs related to food, agriculture, renewable natural resources and the environment would increase 2.6% between 2020 and 2025 to nearly 60,000 jobs annually. Farm Credit Mid-America’s scholarship programs encourage the next generation of agricultural leaders to pursue degrees in these fields.

“We are excited to see the many career opportunities that exist in agriculture and related fields. We want to encourage young people to pursue these careers and nurture them in their journey because we recognize they are the future of our industry,” said Randy Barbee, Farm Credit Mid-America community investment manager. “By awarding financial support to tomorrow’s agricultural leaders, we are fulfilling our mission to secure the future of rural communities and agriculture.”

The Farm Credit Mid-America Scholars program is available to rising college sophomores and juniors pursuing careers in agriculture. The program awards $5,000 in financial support over two academic years to 25 students each year. Recipients also participate in learning and travel experiences that develop leadership skills and enhance financial literacy. 

The Customer Agricultural Scholarship is awarded to children or grandchildren of Farm Credit Mid-America customers. Each year, 36 students majoring in agriculture or pursuing an agricultural or rural community-related career at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, vocational or trade school receive a $1,500 scholarship.

Farm Credit Mid-America’s collegiate scholarship programs are a part of its community investment initiatives, which will return nearly $4 million this year to programs and organizations that nurture the next generation of agriculture leaders, expand industry access for young and beginning farmers and promote agriculture’s value and economic impact.

College-bound students who meet the eligibility requirements for a Farm Credit Mid-America scholarship are encouraged to apply before the December 31, 2023, deadline. Recipients will be announced in the spring of 2024. To learn more about the scholarships or to submit an application, visit: www.fcma.com/scholarships.

About Farm Credit Mid-America

A proud member of the Farm Credit System, Farm Credit Mid-America exists to secure the future of rural communities and agriculture as a leading provider of reliable, consistent credit and financial services to farmers, producers, agribusinesses and rural residents in Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio and Tennessee. The customer-owned cooperative serves more than 137,000 customers and manages a portfolio of $38 billion in total assets owned and managed. Farm Credit Mid-America’s products and services include loans for real estate, operating, equipment, rural living, crop insurance and vehicle, equipment and building leases. For more information visit www.fcma.com.

by Rachel Petty, UT Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development

Smith County 4-H’s best-of-the-best gathered at the Smith County Ag Center on Thursday, November 2, 2023, for the 6th Annual Smith County 4-H Awards Banquet. Over 30 4-H’ers were recognized at this event for their outstanding club and project work, contest participation, and community involvement through 4-H over the past year.

4-H’ers and their families, community supporters, volunteers, and UT Extension staff enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Stroud’s BBQ out of Cookeville, Tennessee. The meal was generously sponsored by Smith County Farm Bureau.

The program for the evening was led by 4-H’ers David Ferrell, Turner Harville, Emmy Bibbings, Owen Meeks, Caleb Hensley, Kynlee Davis, and Tana Harville. The awards ceremony was conducted by 4-H Agent Rachel Petty with help from Administrative Assistant Nancy Malone. Chris Hicks served as the Guest Speaker for the evening.

Special awards for the night went to Jay Driver, Outstanding Junior 4-H Member; Emmy Bibbings, Outstanding Junior High 4-H Member; and Easton Bibbings, Outstanding Senior High 4-H Member. David Ferrell was also honored as a graduating senior. The Smith County “Friend of 4-H” Award went to Katie Martin to acknowledge her years of service and dedication to the 4-H program.

Other 4-H’ers recognized at the banquet were: Josie Harville, Scarlett Hicks, Haven Brown, Katie Belle Butler, Charlotte Driver, Aubrey Hicks, Oakley Lawrence, Erica Paige Stinnett, Marshall Taylor, Cole White, Colton Wright, Kolt Ortiz, Jordyn Swann, Mollie Hatter, Tana Harville, Owen Kilcher, Maddux Parker, Millie Stinnett, Cooper Wright, Gage Blair, Turner Harville, Levi Ferrell, Caleb Hensley, Owen Meeks, Kynlee Davis, Gabe Harville, and Erin Hensley. The future is so bright for these incredible young people!

Our 4-H program is successful thanks to all of the supportive families, dedicated volunteers, and generous community partners that continue to support Smith County 4-H year after year.

The 4-H Youth Development Program delivers programs through cooperative efforts of the University of Tennessee, Tennessee State University, and public and private sector volunteers. 4-H educational programs are offered to all youth, grades 4-12, on an age-appropriate basis, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. For further information concerning the many opportunities that 4-H has to offer the youth in Smith County, call 615-735-2900.

Smith County Agriculture News – By Katie Martin, Smith County Extension Agent

Backyard composting is a simple way to improve your soil while keeping more waste out of the landfill. Composting is simple in theory, and with a few basic dos and don’ts in mind, you can turn leaves, grass clippings, and food waste into rich humus for your garden, landscape, or flowerbeds.

Do: Begin your compost pile with an appropriate mixture of green and brown materials. Green materials, like kitchen scraps and fresh yard waste, provide nitrogen, while brown materials, such as dried leaves and straw, supply carbon. A proper balance of approximately 2 parts carbon-rich materials to 1 part nitrogen-rich materials ensures efficient decomposition. Do turn your compost pile regularly to aerate it and speed up the decomposition process. Additionally, monitor moisture levels to maintain a consistency similar to a damp sponge. Using a compost thermometer can help you gauge the internal temperature of your compost pile, ensuring it reaches the ideal range of 130-160°F, which is necessary to kill weed seeds and pathogens. Do make sure your finished compost appears dark and crumbly with an earthy odor.

Don’t: Do not add diseased or insect-infested plants to your compost pile, as it can spread pests and diseases. Similarly, do not incorporate meat, bone, dairy products, or whole eggs, as they can attract rodents and create unpleasant odors. While a properly managed compost pile will get hot enough to help kill weed seeds, your future self will thank you for avoiding compositing weeds that have already gone to seed. Also, avoid adding anything larger than 2 inches in size as smaller particles are more quickly turned into compost. While newspaper can be added to compost piles, its high carbon content will slow down decomposition, so recycling through community paper recycling centers instead is recommended. Refrain from composting pet waste, which can contain harmful pathogens. Lastly, do not let your compost pile become too dry or too wet, as either extreme can slow decomposition and create unfavorable conditions for beneficial microorganisms.

Whether you compost in a pile, bin, or pit, composting is a simple yet effective way to reduce waste and enrich your garden’s soil. By adhering to these dos and don’ts of composting, you can have free soil amendments and mulching materials right at your fingertips!

For further information about composting or any other agriculture topic, please visit our website at smith.tennessee.edu or call our office at 615-735-2900.

“Spring forward, fall back”, time has just changed to give us back the hour we lost in the spring. Do we really get our hour back? Can time change affect our health and sleep?

In 1916 Germany adopted Daylight Savings Time (DST) to save energy during World War I. Other countries soon followed to extend energy. All states in America follow the DST time change except Arizona and Hawaii.

There are concerns by many people as to the impact this has on our health and safety. Research by David Trilling shows negative impact on health, which is causing controversy. “Researchers have shown increases in car accidents and heart attacks— the latter by as much as 24 percent. Those phenomena may decrease for a few days after the fall switch, when we are given that extra hour of sleep. Another study reports a mild health boost in the fall, though a 2016 study in Epidemiology found increased depressive episodes in the autumn, when the change means we are suddenly leaving work in the dark”.

People with small children report higher levels of unhappiness during the spring transition from loss of sleep. Without DST, there is a concern of parents for the safety of children leaving for school in the dark.

Benjamin Franklin is said to have invented DST, however, he did not. He did suggest changing sleep schedules by setting clocks one hour early to save money on candles and lamp oil. There is much debate as to whether we should do away with DST. Personally, I would like for the time to just stay either way and not change! For more information on DST check out journalistsresource.org.

Pumpkin Pie

1 – 8 oz package cream cheese

¼ cup sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla

1 egg

1 – 9 inch unbaked pastry shell – deep dish

1 ¼ cups canned pumpkin

1 cup evaporated milk

½ cup sugar

2 eggs, slightly beaten

1 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ginger

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Dash of salt

You can use pumpkin spice mix instead of the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt

Combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, mixing until well blended. Blend in egg. Spread onto bottom of pastry shell. Combine remaining ingredients; mix well. Carefully pour over cream cheese mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 5 minutes. Let cool. Brush with maple syrup and garnish with pecan halves. Submitted by Faye Reece, Carthage FCE Club