The Tennessee Department of Transportation’s Nobody Trashes Tennessee campaign is rolling out its fifth annual No Trash November, aiming to clear 75,000 pounds of litter from roads and waterways statewide.

In Sumner County and across Tennessee, residents are invited to team up for local cleanup events to help reach this ambitious milestone.

Governor Bill Lee has officially recognized November as No Trash November Month, celebrating the community’s effort to protect Tennessee’s natural beauty.

Since 2021, thousands of volunteers have removed nearly 250,000 pounds of litter, with more than 2,400 pitching in this year alone.

Working with Keep Tennessee Beautiful, local groups, and youth organizations, the initiative offers rewards and recognition for outstanding litter prevention, and even a special Rocco the Raccoon patch for participating scouts.

All Tennesseans are invited to join, track progress, and share their efforts using #NobodyTrashesTennessee and #NoTrashNovember on social media.

David Pannell of Hendersonville has won a remarkable $1 million prize with the Tennessee Lottery's The Fastest Road to $1 Million instant-ticket game, after purchasing his lucky ticket at Exhale Smoke Shop.

The overnight grocery worker says the news still feels surreal and plans to finally buy a fishing boat, the one thing he’s always wanted.

This win follows a recent wave of lottery luck in Tennessee, including a $100,000 Powerball win in Murfreesboro and another $1 million instant-ticket jackpot in Johnson City.

Since 2004, the Tennessee Education Lottery has awarded more than $22 billion in prizes and raised over $8 billion for college grants, scholarships, and K-12 initiatives, while supporting local retailers with commissions.

David’s big win has energized Hendersonville, offering a reminder of the life-changing possibilities the lottery brings to everyday Tennesseans.

The Bradford-Berry House, built in 1795 by Major Henry Bradford, stands as one of Sumner County’s oldest homes, symbolizing Hendersonville’s founding heritage.

Years of neglect and a leaky roof now threaten its survival, despite urgent concerns from groups like the French Lick Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Located just behind City Hall, the property’s restoration has stalled due to complex deed restrictions set by the General Electric Company since 1997.

The city’s recent environmental surveys cleared one hurdle, but legal negotiations still block progress.

As new developments rise nearby, the home’s future hangs in the balance.

Alderman Mark Burgdorf, whose family ties deepen his resolve, leads the Bradford-Berry Preservation Society to rally support and funding.

With the U.S. Semiquincentennial approaching, restoring the Bradford-Berry House would honor both national and local history—if action comes soon enough.

The Unlimited Potential Fall Drive-Thru Mobile Food Pantry returns on Saturday, November 15, 2025, offering food assistance for local families at the First Baptist Church, 290 E Winchester St, Gallatin.

Running from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, this quarterly event, organized by Unlimited Potential CDC, is dedicated to serving Sumner County residents facing food insecurity.

Friendly Rotary volunteers help coordinate the drive-thru, making pickups easy for every attendee.

This service happens rain or shine, underscoring the community’s steady support.

Additional resources are available year-round, including Feed Sumner Food Bank and Gallatin CARES, both offering routine distributions and other support services.

With the holidays nearing, these programs highlight how Sumner County unites to ensure everyone has what they need to thrive.

Reaching out, volunteering, or donating can make a tangible impact; helping neighbors while nurturing a spirit of unity across the community.

The Gallatin community is coming together in a heartfelt search for James Gestwicki, 24, who has been missing since November 3.

James was last seen alone near South Water Avenue, wearing gray sweatpants, a dark hoodie, and black shoes.

He’s described as 5'7" with dark brown hair and a distinctive “LOVE” tattoo on his right hand close to the thumb.

His family is deeply worried, especially given his pre-existing medical conditions, and has launched a Facebook page to coordinate the community’s search.

Police and canine units tracked his scent to a four-way stop, but it ended there, and reviews of extensive surveillance footage haven’t provided new leads.

Residents, especially near Central Drive, are urged to check their security cameras from November 3.

A search party will gather Saturday, November 8 at 9:00 a.m. at 195 Sumner Avenue, with hopes high and support strong to bring James safely home.

Hendersonville, TN—Lamont Martin, a local Eagle Scout, has unveiled the touching Rainbow Bridge Project at Samson’s Dog Park, creating a special space for the community to honor their deceased dogs.

The Rainbow Bridge offers pet owners a chance to memorialize their companions by attaching leashes to the structure, transforming grief into a shared, heartfelt tribute.

Martin’s leadership guided both fundraising and construction, uniting volunteers to bring his vision to life.

The bridge quickly became a beloved spot, providing comfort for visitors and enhancing community connection.

City officials expressed enthusiasm for more Eagle Scout collaborations, seeing the valuable impact these projects have on public spaces.

Recent Eagle Scout initiatives, such as Salvatore Napolitano’s accessible garden beds and Loyd W. Lyons IV’s storage shed, highlight the transformative role scouts play throughout Sumner County and the region.

Strong opposition surfaced from residents during a recent Sumner County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting regarding a proposed storage facility at 2340 New Hope Road in Hendersonville, TN.

The 12-acre parcel, owned by Charles Roberts, lies in a sensitive floodplain, raising significant community concerns about flooding, traffic, and environmental impacts.

Roberts stated he seeks only to store personal items, not to expand his business Earthworks Incorporated at the site, yet residents cited noise, traffic, and ongoing flood risk as major issues.

Homeowners and the neighborhood association demanded stronger oversight, including documented flood and environmental safety compliance, before any permits are issued.

The board deferred a decision, signaling the debate’s larger implications for future development in Sumner County floodplains.

Sumner County restaurants continue to maintain high food safety standards, with most establishments scoring in the 90s during recent health inspections conducted by the Tennessee Department of Health.

Routine, unannounced visits covered eateries from Gallatin and Hendersonville to Portland and smaller communities, reflecting steady compliance across the region.

While a handful of locations dipped into the low 80s due to issues like hand-washing and temperature control, most corrected violations within days thanks to a collaborative approach from inspectors.

Local schools and daycares performed particularly well, routinely posting near-perfect scores.

Minor challenges persist with hand-washing timing and date marking, but regular enforcement helps keep risks low.

Residents can view inspection results online, fostering transparency and confidence in local dining.

Stability in inspection scores shows that Sumner County businesses are prioritizing food safety, reinforcing public trust and ensuring a safer dining experience for all.

Christmas 4 Kids and Hendersonville Hometown Jam are launching their first “Songwriter Night 4 the Kids” on November 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club in Hendersonville.

Guests will experience music and engaging storytelling from acclaimed Nashville songwriters Chuck Cannon, Phil Vassar, Josh Mirenda, and Jeffrey Steele. Radio personality Shawn Parr will energize the evening as the guest MC and auctioneer during a live auction featuring exclusive prizes.

All proceeds will support Christmas 4 Kids’ ongoing efforts to make the holidays brighter for underprivileged children across Middle Tennessee. Tickets are available at $75 for general admission or $1,000 for a VIP table of eight.

This benefit adds a new chapter to over forty years of bringing holiday cheer through shopping trips, gifts, and special events for local kids.

Gallatin, Tennessee is preparing to kick off the holiday season with Tinsel & Treasures: Holiday Retail Open House, running November 14–16, 2025.

Celebrating over 50 years, this cherished event ignites community spirit by motivating locals and visitors to shop small and savor the season’s warmth.

Downtown retailers will roll out exclusive deals, unique holiday items, and festive cheer throughout the weekend.

The reimagined Yuletide at the Station (formerly Merry Market Day) arrives at its new home, The Station, at 117 W Main St.

Shoppers can browse artisan goods, handmade gifts, and enjoy live music from local talent, creating an inviting holiday vibe.

Admission is free, making it accessible for all.

With recent local growth, including Gap Inc.’s $58 million center expansion and the arrival of Scout’s Barbershop, Gallatin’s small businesses continue to thrive.

Supporting Tinsel & Treasures strengthens local connections and helps Gallatin’s vibrant economy shine this season.

The beloved Holiday on the Hill Market returns to NorthField Church in Gallatin, TN on November 14 and 15, 2025, promising a vibrant marketplace filled with festive crafts and gifts.

Located at 2100 Nashville Pike, the church will buzz with activity as local vendors showcase unique holiday goods.

Proceeds directly benefit Night to Shine, a prom night celebrating teens and adults with special needs, scheduled for February 13, 2026.

By supporting this event, attendees help foster inclusion and community spirit throughout Gallatin.

NorthField Church encourages early sign-ups for vendors and volunteers, aiming to ensure everyone can join in this heartwarming tradition.

With additional events like the Christmas Harvest Craft Show at the Gallatin Civic Center, the holiday season shines bright with opportunities for shopping and giving back.

Don't miss out on this cherished local tradition.

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The 12th Annual Christmas Market by Boutique Bazaar returns to Gallatin, offering festive cheer on Friday, November 28th from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturday, November 29th, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

This event, set at the charming Chapel at Three Oaks on Douglas Bend Rd, invites locals and visitors to ring in the season with over 60 vendors, food trucks, and unique handmade finds.

Friday’s festivities include dinner under bistro lights and live Christmas music, while Saturday features photo ops with Santa Claus from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Early visitors each day receive complimentary shopping bags, and new “Last Chance Santa Shopping Hours” offer free Santa earrings and special door prizes per vehicle.

Parking is $10 cash per vehicle at the gate, with admission otherwise free.

Celebrate the holidays, support local makers, and enjoy a magical weekend in Gallatin.

The White House Inn Museum invites local families to its first-ever 'Christmas at the Inn' celebration on Saturday, November 22, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Guests can enjoy free photos with Santa, lively pioneer-era crafts, classic carolers, a whimsical puppet show, and delicious treats inspired by local tradition.

This festive morning offers a unique way to experience an old-fashioned Christmas right in White House, TN.

The museum, located at 412 Highway 76, has recently unveiled a breathtaking 1800s stagecoach and horse exhibit, which quickly became a highlight for both Robertson and Sumner County visitors.

Plan to join the fun and make new holiday memories at one of the area’s most charming seasonal destinations.

The historic Rose Mont mansion in Gallatin, Tennessee will open its doors for the annual Christmas Market on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Residents are invited to explore artisan booths, connect with local makers, and immerse themselves in a festive holiday atmosphere.

Treats like mulled cider and wine add to the seasonal cheer, while traditional carolers fill the mansion with joyful melodies.

This cherished market marks the start of the season and forms part of Gallatin’s lively holiday events, including the Tinsel & Treasures shopping weekend.

Locals are encouraged to shop small, discover special deals, and support businesses across Sumner County throughout November 14 to 16.

Start the holidays in style and experience the spirit of community at Rose Mont’s beloved celebration.

If you would like your business featured in this section, please contact me at here.

Dr. Paul Graden
Founder & Editor, Sumner County Pulse

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