Tennessee HWY Patrol Increases Activity This Weekend

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is planning to have high visibility for Memorial Day Weekend and through the other summer months. THP to increase patrols and use a variety of traffic safety tools to prevent fatalities and injuries across the state during the holiday weekend. They plan on implementing seat belt and sobriety checkpoints as well as […]
Caring for Dogwood Trees Requires Vigilance

With the arrival of warm spring days comes the arrival of the dogwood tree blooms. Dogwoods are trees native to Tennessee, and the flowering dogwood brings beauty to landscapes across the state. Warren County Agricultural Extension Agent Heath Nokes said to keep the trees healthy, watch for things like fungal or insect-type disease. “When the […]
Workforce Agencies Expect Activity Increase

Governor Bill Lee announced Tuesday that Tennessee would end all federally funded pandemic unemployment compensation programs, and Upper Cumberland workforce agencies are expecting to see an increase in activity. Becky Hull, Executive Director for the Upper Cumberland Local Workforce Development Board, said they have been trying to fill a large number of job openings since […]
Rep. Windle Says Tennessee Unemployment A Priority In Next Session

State Representative John Mark Windle said reforms to Tennessee’s unemployment system will be a top priority heading into the next legislative session. Windle said there is room to improve both compensation and long-term unemployment in the state. Windle said he believes a public service program could be implemented for Tennesseans that cannot find employment. “Show […]
Drawings to be Submitted for New Taco Bell in Baxter

Drawings for the new Taco Bell in Baxter will be submitted to the city on Friday. Mayor John Martin said it will go on Fast Lane, near the liquor store. Drawings were originally submitted in April, but it was decided they need reviewing. Construction is set to start in June.
50th Anniversary of State Natural Areas, Burgess Falls One Of The First

Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of the Natural Areas Act and Burgess Falls was one of the first to be dedicated. Park Manager Bill Summers said it was enacted to protect Tennessee’s most unique pieces of nature. Summers said that Burgess Falls is unique itself, out of nearly 100 natural areas, Burgess Falls is one […]
Funding For Infrastructure And Roads Included In Approved State Budget

Upgrades to roads and more infrastructure for counties are some of the Upper Cumberland benefits of the state’s new budget. That is according to State Representative Ryan Williams. Governor Bill Lee’s $42.6 billion budget passed Thursday. “Our state was one of seven states to show positive economic growth through the midst of COVID, which is […]
State Population Census Numbers Nearing Release

The statewide population total from the census is expected to be released to the state in the next two weeks. That is according to House Speaker Cameron Sexton. Sexton said this number will determine any changes to districts. “In the middle portion of the state, you’ll probably see districts maybe get a little smaller in […]
Putnam Construction Boom Not Stopping For Rising Costs

March was an all-time record month for single family home permits and construction costs in Putnam County. Mayor Randy Porter said there were 52 permits worth $11.44 million, 39 of which were for single family homes. Porter said that despite rising construction costs, Putnam County is seeing a building boom as people leave the big […]
Severe Weather Awareness Week Calls For Planning Ahead

This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week and serves as a reminder to be prepared for the beginning of storm season. Jackson County EMS PIO Derek Woolbright said the anniversary of Cookeville’s March tornado falling on this week makes it even more relevant. “Not only because it is at the forefront of our minds right […]









