Posts with the category “local-news”

Tennessee bill would provide $6,000 grants to in-home dementia caregivers
by Sheridan Gaither on March 4th, 2026
From Local 3 News: A new bill under consideration at the Tennessee State Capitol aims to provide financial support to residents caring for loved ones with dementia at home.The legislation, sponsored by state Rep. Renea Jones, R-Unicoi, is titled the “Caring for Caregivers Act.” House Bill 1443 would provide $6,000 grants to family members serving as in-home caregivers for relatives living with dem...  Read More
Cleveland City School Board meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on March 4th, 2026
The Cleveland City School Board met Monday. Director of Schools, Dr. Jeff Elliott, updated the board on the district’s four focus areas, including student academic success, family support services, clear communication, and recruiting and retaining employees.Dr. Elliott highlighted recent events such as the district spelling bee at Cleveland Middle School and meetings with education leaders in Nash...  Read More
Former Cleveland teacher charged with sex offender registry violation near Ooltewah High School
by Sheridan Gaither on March 4th, 2026
From Local 3 News: UPDATE: A former Cleveland teacher previously convicted of secretly recording female students in a locker room is now facing a new charge.Authorities say Christopher Schroll has been charged with violating Tennessee’s sex offender registry law. Schroll was required to register after pleading guilty in 2024 to two counts of attempted aggravated unlawful photographing of a minor.A...  Read More
Tennessee gas prices shift six cents higher, $2.65 in Chattanooga
by Sheridan Gaither on March 3rd, 2026
From Local 3 News: Gas prices in Chattanooga are on the rise following U.S. military action in the Middle East, and experts say drivers could see even higher prices in the coming weeks.Just last week, gas prices across Chattanooga averaged around $2.51 per gallon. Now, that average has climbed more than six cents to $2.56.On Saturday, February 28, the United States and Israel launched a series of ...  Read More
City of Cleveland explores grant funding for proposed indoor pool project
by Sheridan Gaither on March 3rd, 2026
The City of Cleveland is exploring grant funding to build a year-round indoor pool and is asking for public input.City leaders are preparing an application for a Local Parks and Recreation Fund grant to help build an indoor natatorium. The proposed facility would expand swim lessons, fitness programs, and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.Two public meetings have been scheduled ...  Read More
Bradley County Commission meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on March 3rd, 2026
The Bradley County Commission met yesterday.The commission’s Tax Committee recently met with the county attorney to review identified parcels of land that had previously been advertised for sale.After discussion, the committee recommended placing several of those properties back up for sale. Commissioners approved the recommendation unanimously.Commissioners voted 11 to 1 to approve the mayor’s pr...  Read More
149 Tennessee Republican Party candidates 'temporarily removed' from primary ballots
by Sheridan Gaither on March 2nd, 2026
The Tennessee Republican Party has removed 149 candidates statewide from the May 5th primary ballot, including four in Bradley County.Under party bylaws, Republican candidates must have voted as a Republican in three of the last four statewide primaries, be active in the party, and pay a qualifying fee.The four candidates removed locally are County Commission candidates Caleb Luzader and Ron Calfe...  Read More
Local, regional lawmakers react to US, Israel strikes on Iran
by Sheridan Gaither on March 2nd, 2026
From Local 3 News: Some of our local and state leaders are reacting to the United States' and Israel's strikes on Iran Saturday morning, February 28.Here are some of their responses:Congressman Chuck Fleischmann:"For decades, Iran and its theocratic dictatorship have been the world's largest state sponsor of terror, threatening the United States and the peace of the world. President Trump will alw...  Read More
Bradley County Sheriff's Office warns of social media scam
by Sheridan Gaither on March 2nd, 2026
From Local 3 News: The Bradley County Sheriff's Office is warning residents of a scam circulating in local social media groups.The scam involves a person claiming to need assistance and later saying that their driver's license was "accidentally" sent to your home address.The Sheriff's Office is reminding residents to be aware of strangers asking for your home address or any other personal details....  Read More
Lt. Governor Randy McNally to not seek reelection
by Sheridan Gaither on February 27th, 2026
Lieutenant Governor Randy McNally has announced he will not seek re-election to the Tennessee State Senate in 2026, bringing nearly five decades in the legislature to a close.McNally, a Republican from Oak Ridge, said it has been the honor of his life to serve his community and the people of Tennessee.He was first elected to the Tennessee House of Representatives in 1978 and later elected to the S...  Read More
Construction prompts traffic shift on I-75 South
by Sheridan Gaither on February 27th, 2026
From the Chattanoogan: As part of the I-75 Interchange Improvements at Hamilton Place, Tennessee Department of Transportation contract crews will implement a long-term traffic shift on I-75 South to accommodate ongoing construction of the new exit ramp from I-75 South to Shallowford Road.For approximately eight months, I-75 South will be reduced from four to three lanes between Exit 7 (Bonny Oaks ...  Read More
Plumbing problems at Meigs County High lead to early dismissal Thursday, remote learning Friday
by Sheridan Gaither on February 27th, 2026
From Local 3 News: Plumbing problems at Meigs County High School have led the entire school district to switch to remote learning on Friday, February 27.The school district says repairs are currently underway, but apparently the problem was so severe they had to dismiss the high school early Thursday morning.Now, no Meigs County campus (including Meigs Middle, Meigs North, Meigs South) will operat...  Read More
Parkridge to be allowed to build freestanding emergency room in Cleveland
by Sheridan Gaither on February 26th, 2026
From News Channel 12: A few months ago, the Parkridge Health System announced their intentions to build a new freestanding emergency room in Cleveland.However, they faced opposition from Vitruvian Health, who owns the only emergency room in Cleveland, the Bradley Medical Center.Wednesday, they faced off in front of the Tennessee Health Facilities Commission to decide if that would be built.Every h...  Read More
Sheriff’s offices warn of impersonation scam targeting Tennessee residents
by Sheridan Gaither on February 26th, 2026
From Local 3 News: Sheriff’s offices across Southeast Tennessee are warning residents about a phone scam in which callers pose as deputies and demand money to avoid arrest.Grundy, Hamilton, Polk, and McMinn County Sheriff’s offices are among the law enforcement agencies that say scammers are targeting residents with threats of jail time and fake warrants.One victim, Athens resident Kathy Wilson, s...  Read More
UPDATE: Former Hamilton Co. teacher sentenced to nearly 19 years for federal child sex crimes
by Sheridan Gaither on February 26th, 2026
UPDATE: Former Hamilton County Schools teacher Kenya White has been sentenced to nearly 19 years for federal child sex crimes charges.During sentencing, White blamed alcohol for his actions. The defense made seven objections prior to the sentencing on February 25. White's attorney, McCracken Poston, objected to various language in case documents.White will serve 225 months, attend sex offender the...  Read More
Former American Idol contestant charged in wife’s death had Lee University connection
by Sheridan Gaither on February 25th, 2026
From News Channel 9: A former American Idol contestant with ties to Cleveland, Tennessee, is charged with murder in Ohio.Caleb Ashley Flynn has been charged in connection with the death of his wife, Ashley Flynn, in Miami County, Ohio.Investigators say her body was found at a home in Troy, Ohio, and Flynn was taken into custody.Both Caleb and Ashley Flynn are graduates of Lee University. Prosecuto...  Read More
US Senator Blackburn responds to report about American casualties in potential Iran strike
by Sheridan Gaither on February 25th, 2026
From News Channel 9: US Senator Marsha Blackburn from Tennessee is weighing in on a report over the weekend about possible American casualties if military action is taken in Iran.Tensions have escalated in recent weeks between Washington and Tehran.The Trump administration maintains that Iran should not have access to nuclear weapons.Iran claims its nuclear program only engages in academic researc...  Read More
Cleveland Utilities to host Public Informational Session on Friday
by Sheridan Gaither on February 25th, 2026
Cleveland Utilities will host a Public Informational Session on Friday, February 27, at 2 p.m. at the CU Tom Wheeler Training Center.The session will focus on the utility’s upcoming budget, capital projects, and fees.It will be held at 2455 Guthrie Avenue Northwest.Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend and learn more about the plans and priorities ahead.More information is available ...  Read More
Tennessee senate passes bill banning artificial food dyes in public school cafeterias
by Sheridan Gaither on February 25th, 2026
From Local 3 News: The Tennessee Senate overwhelmingly passed Senate Bill 2423 on Monday, approving the measure by a 27–3 vote.The legislation would prohibit public schools from selling or providing food and drinks that contain artificial food dyes, a move supporters say is meant to protect children from prolonged exposure to additives that may affect behavior and health.Republican Senator Rusty C...  Read More
Lee University Choral Union to present “From Darkness To Light”
by Sheridan Gaither on February 24th, 2026
From the Chattanoogan: The Lee University Choral Union will present its spring concert “From Darkness to Light” on Tuesday, March 3, at 7:30 p.m. in Pangle Hall.“This concert journeys from the darkness of humanity apart from God to the radiant light of Jesus,” said Dr. Kay Dick, director of Choral Union. “As we sing, we move from despair to hope—discovering that Christ is the true source of light....  Read More
Cleveland City Council meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on February 24th, 2026
The Cleveland City Council met on Monday and heard a presentation about a proposed school zone speed enforcement program.Council members heard from a Tennessee-based traffic safety company about adding automated speed cameras in school zones.The company’s CEO, a former law enforcement officer, said the system uses the same laser technology that police use, mounted on poles, to measure speed as veh...  Read More
Bradley County Commission meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on February 24th, 2026
The Bradley County Commission met yesterday for a work session. Lots of condolences were shared for County Mayor Gary Davis and his family following the loss of his son, Blake.There were no agenda items and no audience speakers.Several upcoming meetings were announced, including a voting session on Monday, March 2, at 7 p.m.A joint Building and Land Committee and Road Committee meeting is on Wedne...  Read More
USPS hosting job fairs across TN on Tuesday
by Sheridan Gaither on February 24th, 2026
From Local 3 News: The United States Postal Service (USPS) is hosting job fairs across Tennessee on Tuesday, February 24. They hope to immediately fill vacancies across the state, including in the Tennessee Valley. The hiring events will take place at select post offices from 10:00am-1:00pm. Visit any of these locations to apply: Athens Post OfficeChattanooga Post OfficeCleveland Post OfficeCopper...  Read More
THP names new captain for Chattanooga-area district
by Sheridan Gaither on February 23rd, 2026
From Local 3 News: Lieutenant Cecil Harvey with the Tennessee Highway Patrol's Chattanooga district has been promoted to Captain.He's succeeding Patrick Turner.Our partners at Local 3 frequently contacts Harvey's office with media inquiries regarding incidents that occur on local highways.District Two serves the following counties:BledsoeBradleyCoffeeFranklinGrundyHamiltonMarionMcMinnMeigsPolkRhea...  Read More
Spring concert to mark retirement of longtime Lee University Conductor Mark Bailey
by Sheridan Gaither on February 23rd, 2026
From the Chattanoogan: Lee University’s Symphonic Band will present its spring concert Monday, March 2, at 7 p.m. in the Conn Center.The performance will mark the final concert conducted by Dr. Mark Bailey before his retirement after more than 30 years at Lee.The concert will feature the Cleveland Pops Orchestra and the Northwest Whitfield County High School Band.The program will include a mix of ...  Read More
Cleveland City Schools AI bus cameras catch drivers illegally passing; fines begin today
by Sheridan Gaither on February 23rd, 2026
The warning period is over for Cleveland’s new school bus stop-arm safety program.Starting today, Monday, February 23, drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus in Cleveland could face a $250 fine.Cleveland Police say they recorded more than 165 violations during the first three weeks of the warning period.Officials are urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and watch carefully for buses a...  Read More
Tennessee bill would let some private school students play sports at zoned public schools
by Sheridan Gaither on February 20th, 2026
From News Channel 9: A bill that is still making its way through the Tennessee House and Senate would allow private school students to participate in athletics at public schools they would be zoned for.However, that private school must have less than 200 students enrolled.The bill's language specifies this would only apply to students in grades 9 through 12.State Senator Adam Lowe is the sponsor o...  Read More
Bradley County's candidates for the May 5 Primary
by Sheridan Gaither on February 20th, 2026
Yesterday was the deadline for candidates to file petitions to run for local office in the May 5th Primary.In Bradley County, 55 individuals qualified to run for local office. 53 will compete in the Republican Primary, while 2 Democrats will take part in the Democratic Primary; both Democrats who qualified will be unopposed on the May 5th ballot.  Positions that will appear on the May primary ball...  Read More
Investigation underway at Cumberland plant, TVA reports
by Sheridan Gaither on February 20th, 2026
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) says it is cooperating with authorities following an incident at the Cumberland Fossil Plant on Thursday, February 19.In a statement, TVA emphasized that employee safety remains its top priority as the investigation into the situation continues.“The safety and security of our employees is our number one priority,” said Scott Fiedler with TVA Media Relations. “W...  Read More
Controversial TN bill would allow display of historical documents in schools
by Sheridan Gaither on February 19th, 2026
From Local 3 News: A new bill would allow certain historical documents to be displayed in Tennessee schools.This would include the Ten Commandments, which is stirring up controversy among lawmakers. The House passed the bill 75 to 17 on its third consideration. Some lawmakers believe this bill infringes on the separation between the church and state, while others say it's a part of the 1st Amendme...  Read More
Deadline to file petitions to run for local office is today
by Sheridan Gaither on February 19th, 2026
Today is the deadline for candidates to file petitions to run for local office in the May 5th Primary.In Bradley County, as of yesterday afternoon, 62 individuals have picked up petitions to run for office and 53 have had their petitions approved. To seek office, candidates must get signatures of 25 registered voters living in the district they wish to represent. The deadline to file those petitio...  Read More
Hamilton Co. Health Department warns raw milk leading to E. coli
by Sheridan Gaither on February 19th, 2026
From Local 3 News: There has been an increase in E. coli cases in Hamilton County this year associated with the consumption of raw milk. The Hamilton County Health Department says the increase in Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is unexpected. They state that "raw milk can carry harmful bacteria that may cause severe or life-threatening illness, particularly in young children, older adults, pregnant ...  Read More
Tennessee lawmaker proposes ending sales tax on fresh fruits and vegetables
by Sheridan Gaither on February 18th, 2026
From Local 3 News: A state lawmaker from Smyrna is proposing new legislation aimed at lowering healthy grocery costs for Tennessee families. House Bill 2086, also known as the Fresh Food Affordability Act, would eliminate the state sales tax on fresh fruits and vegetables, a move supporters say could provide relief as many households continue to deal with rising food prices.Affordability remains a...  Read More
Dr. Joel Barnes named Supervisor of Special Populations for Cleveland City Schools
by Sheridan Gaither on February 18th, 2026
Cleveland City Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Joel Barnes will return to the district office to serve as Supervisor of Special Populations.At the end of this school year, Dr. Barnes will transition from his role as Principal of Blythe-Bower Elementary School into the new district-level position.Dr. Barnes previously served as Supervisor of Federal Projects and Professional Development and...  Read More
Bradley County Commission meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on February 18th, 2026
The Bradley County Commission met yesterday and approved several key resolutions, including grant applications and budget items.Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution supporting upgrades to Bradley County Parks and the county’s application for the 2026 Community Development Block Grant.The commission also unanimously approved the 2026 Bradley County road list and a rezoning request for pr...  Read More
UPDATE: Benton Elementary receives no violations during re-inspection
by Sheridan Gaither on February 18th, 2026
From Local 3 News: UPDATE: A follow-up inspection for Benton Elementary was completed on February 10. This comes after health inspectors found outstanding risk violations, giving the school as low score of 68. In the new report, it shows zero violations were found during the most recent visit. That is big improvement from the initial findings. Previously, the inspection report cited 16 violations,...  Read More
Schedule for satellite property tax collection locations released for February
by Sheridan Gaither on February 18th, 2026
Bradley County Trustee Mike Smith has released the schedule for the satellite property tax collection locations for the remainder of February.Smith says the satellite locations have been very popular with taxpayers, allowing property owners to pay their taxes closer to home without coming to the main office.To pay at a satellite location, taxpayers must have their tax statement along with a check....  Read More
Conversations continue over Meigs County Jail
by Sheridan Gaither on February 17th, 2026
From News 12: The Meigs County Commission is still working to determine the future of the county jail after it was decertified by the state in December due to overcrowding and other issues.Meigs County Mayor Eddie Jewell recently presented two possible options to commissioners. One proposal would expand the current jail by adding an additional pod.Another option would involve acquiring property fr...  Read More
Cleveland State unveils new strategic plan
by Sheridan Gaither on February 17th, 2026
From the Chattanoogan: Cleveland State Community College has announced a new five-year strategic plan aimed at strengthening student success and community partnerships.The plan, titled “Defining Our Tomorrow,” will guide the college from 2025 through 2030.College leaders say the plan was developed with input from faculty, staff, students, trustees, alumni, and community partners.It focuses on thre...  Read More
UTC's MobileMoc bringing free care to Bradley, Polk counties this week
by Sheridan Gaither on February 17th, 2026
From Local 3 News: The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) has a free mobile clinic that offers primary care and other services.MobileMoc, a Medical Outreach Clinic, serves the following local counties.BledsoeBradleyGrundyHamiltonPolkMarionMcMinnMeigsRhea Sequatchie UTC describes MobileMoc as "a healthcare initiative by the University of Tennessee Chattanooga designed to bring interprofes...  Read More