Join
the Smyrna Police Department for a hands-on Women’s Self-Defense Course
designed to empower and educate. Learn practical techniques to protect
yourself and increase situational awareness. Tuesdays, April 7th–28th 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture announces the launch of an
updated Pick Tennessee Products website, offering a more streamlined way
for consumers to connect with local farmers, producers and artisans
across the state.
The website redesign follows continued growth in the Pick Tennessee
Products program, which includes nearly 3,200 active members. The
updated site focuses on improving the user experience and strengthening
connections between Tennessee consumers and local Tennessee producers.
“Tennessee’s farmers and artisans are at the heart of our
communities, and this updated Pick Tennessee Products website makes it
easier than ever for people to find and support them,” Agriculture
Commissioner Andy Holt said. “By improving the way consumers connect
with local producers, we’re strengthening our agricultural economy and
celebrating the quality that sets Tennessee products apart.”
The new website offers an improved interactive map, cleaner visuals
and a more cohesive design. Enhancements also reflect refreshed branding
across the platform. Navigation and search functions have been
simplified to help users more easily find local producers and access
current information.
The Pick Tennessee Products website
is the go-to resource for finding program members. Whether the user is
looking for produce, specialty foods, farm experiences, artisan crafts
or wood products, using the website provides users with accurate
information and a seamless experience to find local producers.
Pick Tennessee Products is TDA’s producer-focused marketing program
that connects consumers to farm-direct and locally made products across
Tennessee. Tennesseans interested in joining the program can find
information online on the Pick Tennessee Products application.
Pick Tennessee Products is dedicated to promoting and supporting Tennessee’s agricultural and forestry products.
The Spring Sprint! It's a 1-mile Fun Run and it's FREE. Join us on Saturday, April 11th at 9 am at Gateway Island. If
you liked the Pumpkin Fun Run, you will love the Spring Sprint. It's
free to participate, but please sign up so we can get a count of how
many to expect. This is great for all ages and a perfect start to the
season. Each participant will receive a flower lei (while supplies last)
and will run, walk, stroll, or even skip the 1-mile course.
AAA’s latest survey
of Tennessee residents finds strong travel intent for 2026, with
Tennesseans planning more vacations this year than last. Nearly one in
three Tennesseans (31%) reported plans to travel for spring break.
Spring Break Travel Key Points
Nearly one in three Tennesseans plans to travel for Spring Break.
Tennesseans are leaning toward beach trips, theme parks, and big‑city getaways.
Most are traveling with immediate family (70%), with friends (29%) and extended family (21%) also common.
Top travel goals include relaxing (67%), experiencing something new (46%), and escaping cold weather (32%).
Most
Tennesseans are willing to travel out of state (81%), while 19% of
residents are planning to stay within the state. Only 10% are willing to
travel internationally.
*The survey was completed in early February
Popular Spring Break Destinations Based on AAA travel bookings
Orlando
Fort Lauderdale
Miami
Anaheim/LA
Tampa
Honolulu
Las Vegas
New York
Atlanta
Chicago
Rome, Italy
Paris, France
Cancun, Mexico
Amsterdam, Netherlands
London, England
Barcelona, Spain
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Oranjestad, Aruba
Dublin, Ireland
“Even
with headlines about gas prices and international events, most
vacations will continue smoothly, said Debbie Haas, Vice President of
Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Preparation, flexibility, and
protection give travelers peace of mind, and AAA can help with all
three.”
Spring Break Road Trips: What to Know
Gas
prices are rising as one in three travelers plan to take a spring break
road trip. Tennessee’s state gas price average price has risen 40 cents
over the past week. Visit GasPrices.AAA.com to review daily gas price averages.
“The
recent gas price hike comes after most people had already finalized
their spring break travel plans, so it is unlikely that they will cancel
their trips,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club
Group. “What we typically see is that travelers rebalance their budgets.
Many choose to spend a little less on dining out or shopping so they
can keep their itinerary intact.”
How to trim road trip costs without cutting the trip
Use AAA’s Gas Cost Calculator to estimate fuel expenses for your road trip and plan your budget accordingly.
Use AAA member discounts on hotels, rental cars, attractions, and dining.
Check tire pressure and remove excess weight to improve fuel economy.
Pack snacks and reusable water bottles to reduce food costs.
Book refundable rates so you can adjust plans if prices change.
For Air Travelers: Navigating A Partial Government Shutdown
Air
travel continues, but a partial government shutdown can create pressure
points across the system. Travelers may encounter longer lines at
security, fewer nonessential services, and occasional schedule
adjustments while agencies manage staffing and priorities.
“Most
flights are operating on time, and major airports remain open,” said
Haas. “Give yourself extra time, build in buffers, and lean on tools
that reduce friction.”
Tips to reduce stress at the airport
Book the first flight of the day, which is statistically less prone to rolling delays.
Aim for nonstop flights when possible or allow longer connection times.
Arrive earlier than usual, especially during peak morning and late afternoon windows.
Enroll in TSA PreCheck to speed security screening.
Monitor your flight in the airline’s app and enable push alerts.
Avoid tight checked-bag connections by using carry-on only, if practical.
Consider travel insurance that includes trip interruption and delay benefits.
International Outlook: Mexico
Many
Tennesseans plan to visit Mexico’s resort areas during spring break and
beyond. Geopolitical tensions can evolve, which is why AAA advises
travelers to stay informed and follow common-sense safety practices.
What travelers should know and how to stay safe
Check the U.S. Department of State’s website for any travel advisories that might affect your destination.
Stay within well-known resort zones and booked tour corridors, particularly after dark.
Use hotel-arranged or vetted transportation and avoid hailing rides on the street.
Keep a low profile, secure valuables, and use in-room safes.
Confirm your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your return date.
“Mexico
remains a top destination for many of our members,” said Haas.
“Choosing reputable resorts, using verified transportation, and staying
informed can make every trip safer and more enjoyable. AAA travel agents
can help travelers evaluate their options and make informed decisions
about where to stay, how to get around, and what to expect when they
arrive.”
Regional Considerations: Iran Conflict and Nearby Airspace
Despite
the Iran conflict, popular international destinations like Rome, Paris,
and Barcelona are still accessible. However, developments related to
the conflict can affect flight routings and regional operations.
Airlines may adjust flight paths or schedules in response to airspace
notices and evolving conditions. Travelers with itineraries that touch
the broader region should stay closely connected with their airline and
travel advisor.
Safe travel guidance
Monitor airline emails and app notifications for any reroutes or time changes.
Review government travel advisories for your specific destinations and any planned connections.
Avoid border areas, protest sites, and large public gatherings.
Keep copies of travel documents in a separate location and share your itinerary with family.
Consider
flexible booking options and comprehensive travel insurance, including
Cancel For Any Reason and trip interruption. Acts of war are generally
excluded from most travel insurance policies. AAA encourages travelers
to work with a trusted travel agent who can walk you through the policy
details and answer questions about what is and isn’t included in case of
an emergency.
“Travel conditions can change
quickly, which is why it helps to have support when planning a trip,”
said Haas. “If your itinerary includes areas experiencing disruptions or
uncertainty, AAA travel agents can help you design a trip that aligns
with your comfort level, preferences, and expectations from the very
beginning.”
This
prayer group meets every 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM at the
fountain in downtown Mcminnville. In the event of inclement weather the
prayer group will meet at Martin Chapel Church, 110 Market St. Across
from the Farmers Market. For more informative contact Debbie Young
931-259-2054
Your voice helps shape the future of our community and our region. Upper Cumberland Human Resources Agency is conducting a Community Needs Assessment, and your input is essential in
identifying the services, resources, and priorities that matter most.
Take a few minutes to share your perspective and help guide meaningful action.
