News

Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes from noon on Thursday, July 3, through 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.

AAA predicts record travel in Tennessee this year, with 1.5 million Tennesseans hitting the road, a 1.8% increase over last year.

“With so many people driving on and around the Fourth of July, we want to do all we can to ensure they reach their destinations safely and without necessary delays,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are suspending lane closures during this busy holiday travel time. Be mindful that our HELP Trucks will be on patrol and drivers must obey the law by moving over and slowing down for all emergency vehicles on the side of the road.”

Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possibly increased insurance premiums.

Get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras from your desktop or mobile device at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 for statewide travel information. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) is launching a comprehensive effort to expand and align college access resources and initiatives across the state, with a focus on supporting students, families, and educators in communities that are historically under-resourced and have lower college-going rates.

This new area of work—supported by the seven-year GEAR UP TN grant from the U.S. Department of Education awarded in 2024—aims to strengthen Tennessee’s college-going culture by coordinating statewide outreach strategies, communications, and partnerships across all regions. Emphasis will be placed on reaching students early in their academic journeys and providing consistent support through high school graduation and beyond.

In addition to increasing postsecondary access, this initiative is designed to support Tennessee’s workforce and economic development priorities. By helping more students access and complete a college credential aligned to high-demand career pathways, THEC’s efforts will help ensure communities across the state have a talent pipeline that meets both regional and statewide labor market needs.

Key components of the initiative include:

• Deploying three regional College Access Outreach Coordinators in East, Middle, and West Tennessee, each working with 10-15 high schools and their feeder middle and elementary schools annually.
• Enhancing statewide college messaging and communications through CollegeForTN.org.
• Identifying and addressing service and resource gaps in college access programming across the state.
• Establishing a Tennesse College Access Advisory Committee to align stakeholders and share best practices

To lead this work, THEC is pleased to announce that Suzette Telli, Director of College Access Alignment, will now oversee the Statewide Services Team for College Access and Outreach. In this role, Telli will be responsible for coordinating stakeholders, supervising key team members and guiding the implementation of college access strategies statewide.

“This initiative represents a major step forward in ensuring that all Tennessee students—regardless of geography or background—have access to the tools, guidance, and support needed to pursue higher education,” said Dr. Steven Gentile, Executive Director of THEC. “By building stronger partnerships, aligning resources, and reaching students earlier, we’re laying the foundation for a more connected and college-going culture across the state.”

Together, this team will focus on the delivery and alignment of college access programming, including THEC’s flagship initiatives Advise TN and GEAR UP TN, as well as expanding statewide communication and outreach campaigns designed to engage students and families more effectively.

For more information on Tennessee’s college access initiatives, visit www.CollegeforTN.org.

First National Bank of Middle Tennessee (“the Bank”) is proud to announce that construction will soon start on a brand-new full-service branch. The branch will be located at 925 W. Main Street, Woodbury, Tennessee.

“We are thankful for the strong support and growth we have experienced in Cannon County since we opened in September 2024,” said Pieter van Vuuren, President and CEO of FiRST National Bank of Middle Tennessee.  He added, “Within weeks of moving into this market we knew we had something special in this community and the team of very experienced bankers. They are community minded folks that have invested their personal time and efforts into the Connon County community for many years. We are just getting started and look forward to building relationships and growing in this market.”

“FiRST National Bank of Middle Tennessee has afforded our local team the opportunity to continue to serve as a true community bank.  We are proud to have served this community for the last 70 years and we are thankful to be able to continue to take care of our friends and neighbors.  Whether we have been lifelong friends or just met last week, your banking relationship matters to us.  We encourage you to come experience why we say, “We Show Up”, said Krista Trail, Vice President, and Relationship Manager. 

The new branch will model the renovated locations with an open concept lobby to enhance customer experience aligning with the values of community banking by promoting transparency, accessibility, and personalized service.  There will be some unique features in the lobby including, a history wall, a map of the locations in middle Tennessee and a digital community board.

To celebrate the construction of the new branch, the Bank will have a groundbreaking ceremony in July 2025. The estimated completion date is Spring 2026. 

FiRST National Bank of Middle Tennessee is committed to supporting the communities we serve and has 150 years of experience showing up and giving back.  The current office is full-service located at 828 McMinnville Highway in Woodbury and the phone number 615-563-2025. This office will remain open until the new location is opened.  

Tennessee’s tourism industry set a new record in 2024, generating $31.7 billion in direct visitor spending and welcoming 147 million visits, according to newly released data from Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

Tourism is a powerful economic driver across all 95 counties, generating $3.3 billion in state and local tax revenue – saving each Tennessee household $1,170 annually on average.

“Tennessee’s tourism momentum is built to last, creating jobs, fueling small businesses, delivering real returns on public investment and generating substantial tax revenues that directly benefit Tennesseans,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “I’m proud of the investments we’ve made to drive intentional growth, and welcome visitors from around the world to experience Tennessee’s urban cities and small towns from Memphis to Mountain City.”

“I’m so grateful to our amazing tourism and hospitality industry for these remarkable results,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “The Tennessee Tourism team has been able to leverage bigger tourism budgets to help grow visitor spending over 35% in these last six years. We are leading the nation as one of just a few states that are aggressively growing tax revenue from non-Tennessee residents to benefit all seven million Tennesseans.”

By the Numbers: 2024 Economic Impact of Travel in Tennessee

• Record $31.7 billion in direct visitor spending, a 3.3% year-over-year increase
• 35.5% growth since 2018, more than double the national average of 16.7%
• Visitors spent $87 million per day in 2024
• $3.3 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2024, saving residents $1,170 in taxes each year

International Travel Surged in 2024

• 12.0% year-over-year increase in international visitor spending
• Each international visitor spent $1,278 on average – nearly six times more than a domestic visitor
• Note: These figures do not reflect the 2025 launch of new direct flights from Iceland and Ireland, which open new doors for European visitation

The data underscores the resilience of Tennessee’s tourism industry, which sustained growth despite a challenging year with major weather events, including Hurricane Helene.

In 2024, Tennessee awarded more tourism funding than ever before – investing $1.5 million in marketing grants, $2 million in Tourism Enhancement Grants and $13.75 million in ARPA funds. These investments support marketing and destination development at both the state and local level, help drive year-round visitation in all 95 counties and open new opportunities for rural communities to grow their tourism economies.

With new air service between Memphis and Knoxville; expanded routes into Nashville, Chattanooga and several regional airports; and luxury coach options like Vonlane and Gray Line, Tennessee is primed to attract even more visitors in 2025, with milestones like B.B. King’s 100^th birthday in Memphis, Grand Ole Opry’s 100^th anniversary in Nashville and Dollywood’s 40^th anniversary. Events like MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol and IBMA in Chattanooga are also aimed to draw visitors. Programs like the upcoming MICHELIN Guide to the American South will continue to elevate Tennessee’s culinary brand.

The full 2024 Economic Impact on Travel Report and direct visitor spending data for all 95 counties will be released in September. The statewide report, including methodology, can be found here. All data is sourced from the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Tourism Economics, with national benchmarks provided by U.S. Travel Association.

As extreme heat continues to impact many parts of the U.S. including Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) is urging everyone to follow important safety tips to avoid heat-related illnesses.

‘’Being outdoors in severe heat can be extremely dangerous, especially for the elderly and young children,’’ said Tennessee Health Commissioner Ralph Alvarado, M.D., F.A.C.P. ‘’Being outside in extreme temperatures can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke, so it’s very important to drink plenty of water, limit your time outdoors and take other steps to stay safe.’’

Heat-related illness symptoms include:
Heat Exhaustion – Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, weakness and nausea or vomiting.

Heat Stroke – Red, dry skin, rapid pulse, dizziness, nausea and confusion.

Steps to avoid heat-related illness include:
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoiding alcohol and carbonated drinks
• Taking plenty of breaks
• Moving to a cool place
• Wearing light, loose fitting clothing
• Using sunscreen
• Seeking medical attention if experiencing symptoms

For more heat safety tips go https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/about/index.html.

The mission of the Tennessee Department of Health is to Protect, promote, and improve the health and well-being of all people in Tennessee.

Learn more about TDH services and programs at www.tn.gov/health.

On Monday, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) applauded his House colleagues for passing his vital legislation to improve the homebuying process for millions of Americans. H.R.2808, the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, would dramatically reduce the number of unwanted calls and messages that follow applying for a mortgage in the United States.

The legislation passed by a voice vote.

Currently, credit bureaus are notified when a consumer applies for mortgage financing. That information (which is referred to as a trigger lead) is then often sold by the credit bureaus to data brokers and other lenders without the consumer’s knowledge or approval. Consumers are then often bombarded with hundreds of unwanted solicitations. 

Rep. Rose released the following statement after the bill’s passage:

“Buying a home is a fundamental part of the American Dream,” Rep. Rose said. “Unfortunately, the process has become more of a nightmare due to abusive mortgage trigger leads. I want to thank my colleagues from both sides of the aisle for supporting my bill. It will no doubt benefit millions of Americans.”

The legislation was co-led by Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) and garnered more than 80 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle. The legislation is also bicameral. The U.S. Senate version of the bill, introduced by Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Jack Reed (D-RI), passed the chamber just last December. It was reintroduced in April. 

Secretary of State Tre Hargett, State Sen. Shane Reeves, and State Rep. Michael Hale today announced a $1,202 Training Opportunities for the Public (TOP) Grant award for the Adams Memorial Library. The funding will help cover the cost of digital literacy instructors and Wi-Fi hotspots at the library. 

“Public libraries are essential resources in building strong communities,” said Secretary Hargett. “We are grateful to partner with the Department of Economic and Community Development and the Tennessee General Assembly to enhance the technological offerings available at their local libraries.”

TOP Grants are funded by the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and administered by the Secretary of State’s office. 

“The investments made in our public libraries increase access to critical resources that fill gaps in the lives of citizens,” said Sen. Reeves. “This grant will ensure Adams Memorial Library continues its important work educating our future leaders.”

Tennessee public libraries can use these funds to address unique needs within their communities. Resources provided through TOP Grants include digital literacy training, hotspots, solar charging stations, and increased internet access at a facility. 

“This grant reflects our ongoing commitment to Cannon County’s future,” said Rep. Hale. “Through these funds, Adams Memorial Library will continue providing services that effectively address the needs of all who visit our library.”

This year, $291,405 in Training Opportunities for the Public Grant funding is being awarded to increase access to technology at 54 public libraries across Tennessee. 

To learn more about grants for public libraries administered by the Library & Archives, visit  https://sos.tn.gov/tsla/services/grants-public-libraries.

Mrs. Julie Vincent, Director Elect of Schools for Cannon County, is pleased to announce Mr. Dustin Brannon as the new Cannon County Middle School principal beginning the 2025-2026 school year.

Dustin Brannon comes to us from the Rutherford County School District but has local Cannon County ties. He has been an educator for 13 years and has been an assistant principal for the past 5 years at Rocky Fork Middle School.  Additionally, Mr. Brannon has experience teaching 7th and 8th grade, as well as, US History at the middle school level.

Mr. Brannon states, “I am truly honored and excited to serve as the next principal of Cannon County Middle School. This community means so much to me and I am committed to creating a safe, supportive and inspiring learning environment, where every student can thrive. I look forward to working alongside our incredible teachers, staff, students, families and board members as we build a strong tradition of excellence for this community. I would also like to thank Director Julie Vincent for the opportunity to serve this community that I love so much.”

Mrs. Julie Vincent stated, “We were seeking a strong, innovative instructional leader who can lead Cannon County Middle School to great success, and we have found that person, with Mr. Brannon. He came to us highly recommended and impressed the interview team with his thoughtful insights on what makes a great middle school. We know the students, staff, and families of Cannon County Middle will be in great hands. Welcome to Cannon County School District, Mr. Brannon, we are excited for you to be joining us!”

Mrs. Julie Vincent, Director Elect of Schools for Cannon County, is pleased to announce Mrs. Emily Hancock Layne as the new Supervisor of Instruction beginning the 2025-2026 school year. Additionally, she is pleased to announce that Jenny McCrery has accepted the position for Supervisor of Exceptional Learners for the 2025-2026 school year.

Mrs. Layne is currently the principal of Cannon County Elementary School. She has been an educator for 18 years and has been an assistant principal, reading specialist, interventionist and classroom teacher.  She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this position.

Mrs. Layne states, “I’m incredibly excited to step into the role of Supervisor of Instruction. This opportunity represents more than just a new position—it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact on teaching and learning across Cannon County. I’m passionate about supporting educators, driving instructional improvement, and fostering an environment where both students and teachers thrive. I’m looking forward to collaborating with dedicated staff, using data to inform decisions, and ensuring high-quality instruction in every classroom. I believe in the power of continuous growth and am eager to contribute to a culture of excellence and innovation. It’s an honor to take on this leadership role, and I can’t wait to get started”

Mrs. Julie Vincent stated, “We were seeking a strong, innovative instructional leader who can lead Cannon County Schools to great success, and we have found that person, with Mrs. Layne. The interview team was extremely impressed with her thoughtful insights on what makes a strong academic school system. We are excited to have Mrs. Layne taking the lead in our curriculum and instructional movement.”

Jenny McCrery comes to us from the Rutherford County School District, where she is currently a Special Education Instructional Coach. She has been an educator for 13 years and will be bringing a deep background knowledge of Special Education to our district.  Dr. McCrery has her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction: Special Education, her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and her administrative license.

Dr. McCrery states, “I am excited to join Cannon County Schools as the Supervisor of Exceptional Learning. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all learners, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with students, families, educators, and community partners. I have thirteen years of educational experience that has prepared me to support educators, administrators and families. I hold a BS from MTSU and an MA, EdS and EdD from Carson Newman University. I look forward to working together to achieve our goal of providing exceptional education to ensure every learner thrives!”

Mrs. Julie Vincent stated, “We are so excited to have Dr. McCrery join our Cannon County team. She brings to us a vast knowledge of special education and will continue to be a strong leader in that department. She came to us highly recommended and was very impressive in her interview. Welcome Dr. McCrery to the Cannon County School District.”

The search for a new principal at Cannon County Elementary is now underway. Applications are available on the Cannon County website at ccstn.net

On Tuesday, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) thanked his colleagues on the House Financial Services Committee for advancing his bipartisan legislation to protect aspiring homeowners. H.R.2808, the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, would dramatically reduce the number of unwanted calls and messages that follow applying for a mortgage in the United States.

Currently, credit bureaus are notified when a consumer applies for mortgage financing. That information (which is referred to as a trigger lead) is then often sold by the credit bureaus to data brokers and other lenders without the consumer’s knowledge or approval. Consumers are then often bombarded with hundreds of unwanted solicitations. 

Rep. Rose released the following statement after the bill advanced committee:

“Enough with the endless unwanted calls and text messages,” Rep. Rose said. “This will undoubtedly be one of – if not the most – bipartisan bill to come before the House of Representatives since I came to Congress in 2019. I look forward to seeing this become law.”

The legislation is being co-led by Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) and has garnered more than 80 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle. The legislation is also bicameral. In fact, the U.S. Senate version of the bill, introduced by Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) and Jack Reed (D-RI), passed the chamber just last December. It was reintroduced in April. 

Background:

The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act would amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) to prohibit a credit reporting bureau from furnishing a trigger lead unless an individual chooses to opt-in while also preserving the use of trigger leads in appropriately limited circumstances.  The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act is supported by a broad coalition of financial trades and consumer groups, including the Independent Community Bankers of America, Mortgage Bankers Association, Tennessee Bankers Association, National Association of Mortgage Brokers, American Bankers Association, and the Broker Action Coalition.