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With snow and ice in the forecast for large portions of the state, AAA – The Auto Club Group urges drivers to take proactive steps to stay safe on winter roads. Winter weather can be deadly: the U.S. Department of Transportation reports that each year 1,300 people are killed and 116,000 are injured in crashes on snowy or icy pavement.

“Winter driving hazards such as slick ice, snow-packed roads, and reduced traction make braking and steering treacherous,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Speeding, tailgating, and poorly maintained vehicles amplify the danger, so prepping your car with winter tires, a strong battery, and proper fluid levels is essential for safety.”

AAA’s Winter Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

• Tires: Check pressure weekly; consider winter tires.
• Battery: Test regularly; cold weather reduces power.
• Fluids: Use winter-grade washer fluid; check antifreeze; change oil for winter viscosity.
• Wipers & Defroster: Replace blades; ensure heater works.
• Brakes & Lights: Inspect brakes; clean and check all lights.

Drivers can ensure their vehicles are winter-ready by visiting a AAA Car Care location or AAA.com/AutoRepair to view a network of trusted AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities nearby.

Primary Reasons for Roadside Assistance in Winter Weather

• Dead Batteries: Cold weather significantly reduces a car battery’s power output and efficiency. A battery that works fine in warm weather may fail completely when temperatures drop, making a jump-start or a replacement battery more common.  
• Tire Issues: Icy and snowy roads demand good tire traction. The tread needs to be able to effectively push snow and grip wet/icy surfaces to steer and propel your vehicle. Drivers should check their tires’ tread depth to see if replacement tires are needed.
• Vehicle Crashes/Sliding off the Road: Reduced traction from ice and black ice increases the risk of skidding, sliding off the road, or getting involved in crashes.
• Running Out of Fuel: Being stranded without fuel in freezing temperatures can become an emergency very quickly. Drivers should not let their gas tanks drop below a quarter of a tank in inclement weather.
• Car Lockouts and Frozen Locks: Freezing moisture can cause car locks to freeze, preventing access to the vehicle.

What to Do If You Become Stranded

If your vehicle becomes disabled in winter weather, staying calm and taking the right steps can save your life:

• Stay inside your vehicle for shelter unless it is unsafe to do so.
• Turn on hazard lights to increase visibility.
• Call for help and share your GPS location.
• Run the engine sparingly (about 10 minutes per hour) and crack a window for ventilation.
• Layer clothing, stay hydrated, and conserve your phone battery.

“If your car stalls in traffic, act fast: turn on hazard lights, set the emergency brake, stay inside with doors locked, and call for roadside assistance immediately,” added Cooper. “If remaining in your vehicle puts you at risk, such as on a blind curve or in heavy traffic, exit carefully, move to a safe location away from the roadway, and call for assistance immediately.”

How To Request AAA Roadside Assistance

• App: AAA.com/mobile
• Online AAA.com/roadsideassistance
• Text: Text ‘help’ to 800.222.1134
• Have your membership card and ID ready

Electric Vehicle Winter Tips

For those with electric vehicles, cold weather can slash EV range by up to 40% and slow charging. To conserve the battery:

• Precondition Your Battery: Warm up the battery before driving by using the preconditioning feature while the car is still plugged in. This helps maintain range and efficiency.

• Keep It Plugged In: Whenever possible, leave your EV plugged in overnight. This keeps the battery warm and prevents deep discharge in freezing temperatures.
• Manage Charging: Charge more frequently in winter since range can drop by 20–40% in cold weather. Use Level 2 charging for faster replenishment and better battery health.
• Optimize Cabin Heating: Use heated seats and steering wheel instead of blasting cabin heat—they consume less energy. Preheat the cabin while plugged in to avoid draining the battery on the road.

Rescuing Stranded Motorists

AAA’s service providers play a critical role in winter, rescuing stranded motorists from icy roads and ensuring safe transport during wintry conditions. Drivers can do their part to help keep all first responders safe by adhering to the Slow Down, Move Over law, which requires drivers to slow down and move over a lane when approaching tow trucks, law enforcement, or emergency vehicles.

Tennessee began the busy 2025 holiday season in November with more people in the workforce than the previous year, according to newly released data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD).

The seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate for November 2025 dropped by one-tenth of a percentage point, to 3.6%, compared with the 2024 rate.

Over the month, nonfarm employment in Tennessee grew by 7,600 jobs. The largest increases were in the private education and health services sector, the other services sector, and the administrative, support, and waste services sector.

In a year-to-year comparison, the state’s nonfarm employment increased by 34,800 jobs. The biggest gains were in the professional and business services sector, the trade, transportation, and utilities sector, and the leisure and hospitality sector.

TDLWD has compiled a comprehensive analysis of Tennessee’s November 2025 statewide unemployment data.

Eighty-seven of Tennessee’s 95 counties reported unemployment rates below 5% in November. Eight counties had rates between 5% and 10%.

Williamson County had the state’s lowest unemployment rate for the month, at 2.9%, which matched its rate from November 2024. Trousdale, Sevier, and Rutherford counties had the next lowest jobless rates.

Cannon County had an unemployment rate of 3.4 percent in November.  This translates into 242 residents out of work.

Perry County recorded the highest November unemployment rate at 6%, 1 percentage point higher than the rate recorded in the same month the previous year. Pickett, Meigs, and Grundy counties had the next highest unemployment rates in Tennessee in November.

Additional county and city unemployment data for November is available.

There are no labor force estimates for October 2025. Household survey data, the primary input used to produce these estimates, was not collected in October due to a lapse in federal appropriations and was not collected retroactively. Industry employment, hours, and earnings data are available and include self-reported employer data from October as part of the establishment survey. Additional establishment survey data was collected once government operations resumed in November.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security is updating older Commercial Driver License records to comply with current federal and state requirements. 

Approximately 8,800 of Tennessee’s 150,000 CDL holders will receive a notice by mail requesting citizenship or lawful presence documentation that were not required when their licenses were originally issued. 

Federal rules require all CDL records to include proof of citizenship or lawful presence. Many long-standing CDL holders obtained their licenses before these requirements were in place.  

As a result of the President’s executive order, the Department identified older files that need to be updated under the current federal and state standards. It is important to note that not every Tennessee CDL holder will receive a letter to update. 

Affected drivers will receive a letter by mail that explains which documents are acceptable and how to submit them. Only one valid document is needed to complete the record update.  If you do not receive a letter, then no action is needed.  By law, the updates must be completed in person at a state driver services center. 

“This action is designed to ensure that all CDL records meet today’s state and federal requirements and are in line with the Presidential directive. Drivers whose files predate modern documentation rules will receive instructions on how to complete their records,” said Russell Shoup, Assistant Commissioner of the Driver Services Division. “We appreciate the cooperation of Tennessee’s commercial driving community.” 

As previously stated, not every CDL holder will receive a letter.Drivers who do receive a notice may visit any Driver Services Center with one acceptable document listed in the letter. Examples include a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or other approved documents. 

The Department has created a dedicated information page at: www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/commercial-driver-license/account-review.html. This page includes a list of acceptable documents and details on how to update a CDL record.  Employers or drivers with questions may contact the Driver Services Call Center at : CDL.division@tn.gov.

Hearing booms on New Year’s Eve is not unusual.  However, many persons in Cannon County reported experiencing a boom on Saturday night.

According to Cannon County Sheriff Darrell Young, dispatch took several calls from residents saying a rumbling boom shook foundations and rattled windows.  No injuries or damage was reported.

Residents in Coffee and DeKalb Counties also reported the rumble.

No valid reason for the mystery boom has been discovered.

Six days have now passed that the Cannon County Election Commission office has  accepted petitions for this year’s elections.  As of Friday, three incumbents will be facing opposition.

Note: Candidates who have Qualified for the Ballot will be Marked with a (Q) – otherwise, they have only collected their Petitions.

Note: Candidates running as Republicans will be Marked with (R) – otherwise, they are running as Independents. These Candidates, if qualified, will appear on the May 5th Ballot.

Sandy Hollandsworth (Q) – Register of Deeds

Franz Walkup (R) – Register of Deeds

Chris Brown (Petition Returned / Waiting on POST) – Sheriff

Bill Sharp (R) (Petition Returned / Waiting on POST) – Sheriff

Norma Knox (Q) – Trustee

Neal Appelbaum – Trustee

Lana Jones – County Clerk

Katina George (Q) – Circuit Court Clerk

Greg Mitchell (Q) – County Executive

Jim Bush (R) – County Executive

Krystal Alexander – County Commission, District 5

Tony Burnett – County Commission, District 5

Randy Gannon (Q) – County Commission, District 4

Michael Hollandsworth – County Commission, District 4

Curtis George – County Commission, District 3

Chase Martin – County Commission, District 3

Rebecca Tramel – School Board, District 2

The Window to qualify for the August 6th, 2026 Ballot is now OPEN. February 19th at NOON is the end of the window.

Tennessee recorded a significant decline in traffic fatalities in 2025, with 147 fewer roadway deaths than the previous year, according to year end data released by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. The Tennessee Fatality Analysis Reporting System shows 1,045 traffic fatalities statewide in 2025, down from 1,194 in 2024, a reduction of approximately 14 percent. Much of the statewide improvement was driven by significant progress in Memphis and Shelby County, where coordinated enforcement and safety initiatives, including the Memphis Safe Task Force and the Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Bluff City Task Force, contributed to a substantial reduction in fatalities. “Fewer fatalities mean fewer families experiencing unimaginable loss, and that matters,” said Commissioner Jeff Long. “Our department works every day to do everything in its power to prevent crashes and reduce traffic fatalities across Tennessee, and we will not let up on that mission.” “This is meaningful progress, and it represents lives saved,” said Col. Matt Perry, commander of the Tennessee Highway Patrol. “Our troopers see the consequences of dangerous driving every day. Enforcement, education and visibility matter, and we will continue working to slow drivers down, curb impaired driving and reinforce seat belt use across the state.” Urban areas accounted for the largest share of the statewide improvement, with 128 fewer fatalities compared to last year. Rural fatalities also declined, though at a smaller rate, reinforcing the need for continued focus on rural road safety. Statewide data also showed reductions in crashes involving teen drivers and older drivers, as well as a decrease in pedestrian fatalities. “Tennessee’s progress in reducing traffic fatalities reflects the impact of education, enforcement and strong partnerships,” said Buddy Lewis, director of the Tennessee Highway Safety Office. “Our focus remains on proven strategies like seat belt use, impaired driving prevention and pedestrian safety. These numbers show progress, but they also remind us that every driver has a role in keeping our roads safe.” Statewide Fatalities by THP District District 1 – Knoxville Fatalities decreased from 170 in 2024 to 144 in 2025, a reduction of 26 deaths. Knox County accounted for a significant share of this improvement. District 2 – Chattanooga Fatalities increased slightly from 124 to 128, highlighting the need for continued focus and targeted enforcement in Southeast Tennessee. District 3 – Nashville Fatalities declined from 268 to 255, a reduction of 13 deaths. Trends varied across Middle Tennessee counties, reflecting growth and changing traffic patterns. District 4 – Memphis Fatalities declined from 259 to 169, a reduction of 90 deaths, representing the largest district level improvement statewide. District 5 – Fall Branch Fatalities declined from 126 to 119, a reduction of seven deaths across Northeast Tennessee. District 6 – Cookeville Fatalities dropped from 77 to 57, a reduction of 20 deaths, one of the largest percentage decreases in the state. District 7 – Lawrenceburg Fatalities declined from 77 to 65, a reduction of 12 deaths across southern Middle Tennessee. District 8 – Jackson Fatalities increased from 88 to 97, with increases concentrated in rural areas, while urban fatalities declined. Despite the overall decline, troopers cautioned that certain areas remain concerning. Motorcycle fatalities remained largely unchanged year to year, and unrestrained occupants, while improving, continue to represent a significant portion of traffic deaths. While New Year’s Eve traffic fatality data is not yet finalized, the year end figures reflect a clear statewide trend of fewer fatalities across most districts in 2025. The department urges drivers to buckle up, slow down, avoid impaired driving and remain attentive behind the wheel. All data are preliminary and reflect totals reported as of Dec. 30, 2025.

Influenza (flu) activity is currently increasing, and it’s important to consider getting a flu shot to protect yourself and those around you. Tennessee typically sees the highest number of seasonal flu cases in January and February each year.

‘’If you haven’t received your annual flu shot, consider doing so now as flu activity is rapidly increasing,’’ said Tennessee Health Commissioner John Dunn. ‘’The flu shot protects against severe disease and death from the virus, and I encourage Tennesseans to talk with their provider.’’

TDH recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone ages six months and older. Pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and people with certain medical conditions are at the highest risk of severe complications from the flu. Typical flu symptoms include fever, cough, congestion, and body aches, and will improve on their own after about a week. If you suspect you or someone in your family has the flu, call your health care provider.

Nationally, 7.5 million illnesses, 105,000 hospitalizations, and 6,300 deaths could be prevented annually if more people chose to get the flu vaccine. To prevent the spread of the flu virus to others, ensure you follow recommended precautions such as proper hygiene, including handwashing, covering your coughs or sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and staying at home if you are sick.

Information on increasing statewide and regional influenza-like activity is available online in Tennessee’s Weekly Flu Reports. Flu vaccine is available in all county health departments across the state as well as medical clinics and pharmacies.

Road construction won’t delay travelers during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is once again halting all lane closure activity on interstates and state highways in anticipation of higher traffic volumes across the state. No temporary lane closures will be allowed for construction on Tennessee roadways beginning at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, 2025, through 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026. 

AAA expects an estimated 2.8 million Tennesseans to travel between December 20 and January 1, with 2.6 million of them driving.

“Safety is our top priority, and with so many people expected to travel Tennessee roadways during the holidays, we want to keep traffic moving and get everyone to their destinations,” said TDOT Commissioner Will Reid, P.E. “As always, please wear your seatbelt, reduce your speed, avoid distractions, and move over for emergency vehicles as our HELP Truck drivers will be on patrol.”

Except for a few long-term closures that must remain for safety, all construction-related closures will be suspended during the holiday period. Workers may still be on-site in some construction zones. Drivers should obey all posted speed limits, particularly in construction areas. Slower speeds are necessary in work zones due to the temporary layout of the roadway and will be enforced. 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.

Christmas is a magical time of the year for children.  Unfortunately, for families in need, the holidays can be stressful.  Your family, business, church, or civic organization can embrace the season of giving by becoming a Secret Santa to a needy family. There are nine families who still need Secret Santa’s. Please contact the Child Advocacy Center this week to be matched with a needy family.

Gifts need to be delivered to First Baptist Church at 738 E. Castle Street in Murfreesboro on Thursday, December 11th and Friday, December 12^th from 7:30a.m. – 12:00 noon.

In Cannon County, contact Amanda Hammond at 615-563-9915 or ahammond@cannoncac.org

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) has announced the fourth round of funding for the Tennessee Forestry, Agriculture, and Rural Markets (FARM) cost-share program, which supports projects that enhance agricultural supply chains and strengthen rural economies.

“The FARM program has already proven how targeted investments can make a meaningful difference for Tennessee agriculture,” said Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt. “This new round of funding will help support jobs and enable producers to build resilience.”

The application portal will be open Dec. 10–31, 2025 and can be accessed on the TDA FARM webpage.

To help applicants prepare, an informational webinar is available Dec. 2, 2025, from 2 to 3 p.m. Central time. The webinar is free, and participants must register online for the FARM informational session.

This round of the FARM program will focus on equipment purchases, offering a 50% cost share rate with a maximum award of $250,000. A total of $3.3 million is available, and all purchases must comply with federal procurement guidelines. Projects awarded must be completed by Aug. 31, 2026.

Applications will be evaluated on factors such as economic impact, readiness to proceed, benefits to the agricultural supply chain, and the applicant’s ability to successfully complete the project. FARM funds are reimbursement-based and do not need to be repaid.

During the application window, applicants will have access to program details, including FAQs and a user guide, on the FARM webpage.

Contact TDA’s Business Development Division at business.development@tn.gov with questions.