Posts with the category “local-news”
City of Charleston to host Christmas in the Park on Nov. 29
by Sheridan Gaither on November 26th, 2025
The City of Charleston is preparing for its annual Christmas celebration!Christmas in the Park will be held this Saturday, November 29, at Hoyt Berry Municipal Park from 1 to 6 p.m.The free event includes a bounce house, games for kids, a hayride, cake walk, photos with Santa, and more than 30 vendors. The tree lighting will close out the event.Live performances will feature Tyson Leamon and Chatt... Read More
TBI: Jury indicts Meigs County man in deadly July shooting
by Sheridan Gaither on November 26th, 2025
A Meigs County man was indicted by a grand jury Monday in a deadly shooting that happened in July, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.The shooting took place July 6 on Peakland Road in Decatur. Investigators say Chad Mitchell Lankford was responsible for the death of Jason Paul Burnette.Lankford was indicted for first degree murder and arrested Tuesday. He is being held on a $1 mil... Read More
Terra Running Co. to host Cleveland's Thanksgiving Day 5K on Thursday
by Sheridan Gaither on November 26th, 2025
The annual Thanksgiving Day 5K returns to Cleveland this Thursday.Terra Running Company will host the event at Greenway Park on Thanksgiving Day at 8:30 AM.Participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Chattanooga Area Food Bank. Donations will benefit residents in Bradley County.Registration is open in-store at Terra Running Company until 6 p.m. today. Race day registrat... Read More
Mainstreet Cleveland presents Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29
by Sheridan Gaither on November 26th, 2025
Mainstreet Cleveland reminds you to shop local on Small Business Saturday this weekend in Downtown Cleveland.This Saturday, November 29, shoppers are encouraged to support local businesses during Small Business Saturday.Downtown Cleveland has more than 30 retailers and 17 restaurants participating. Organizers say shopping small keeps more than half of your spending in the local community.... Read More
TDOT halts lane closures during Thanksgiving holiday travel period
by Sheridan Gaither on November 25th, 2025
Thanksgiving travelers will not be delayed by construction on Tennessee roads this holiday.TDOT is suspending all construction-related lane closures from noon on Wednesday, November 26th, through 6 a.m. on Monday, December 1st. Nearly 1.8 million Tennesseans are expected to travel by car.Commissioner Will Reid says the pause in road work will help ease congestion on the year’s busiest travel days.... Read More
Bradley County woman arrested for aggravated cruelty to animals
by Sheridan Gaither on November 25th, 2025
Bradley County Deputies responded to a home in Northeast Bradley County on November 23rd after a report that a dog had been shot while secured on the property.Witnesses say Crystal Palmer grabbed a gun and fired several rounds at the confined dog. The animal ran into the home, where it was later found dead. Detectives recovered evidence, including blood in the kennel, a trail into the residence, a... Read More
Bradley County Commission meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 25th, 2025
The Bradley County Commission met yesterday.County Mayor Gary Davis announced three resolutions for the next voting session, including a three-year agreement allowing him to contract with Cintas for janitorial supplies for EMS. Two additional non-contiguous annexation agreements are in process and will move to the next work session, then on to a later vote.Commissioner Mike Hughes reported the Fir... Read More
'Experimental' plane suffers hard landing at Cleveland Jetport
by Sheridan Gaither on November 24th, 2025
From Local 3 News: A pilot of an experimental aircraft walked away without injury after a hard landing at the Cleveland Regional Jetport, the Bradley County Mayor's Office says.The pilot was performing a "touch-and-go" maneuver.Bradley County EMS, Cleveland Police, and Cleveland Fire responded to the scene to secure the scene and ensure there were no "additional hazards."The National Transportatio... Read More
Monroe Co. deputy crashes; gets arrested for DUI
by Sheridan Gaither on November 24th, 2025
From Local 3 News: A court services deputy with the Monroe County Sheriff's Office is charged with driving under the influence after a crash Saturday evening.Josh Woods was off-duty when it happened, according to Sheriff Tommy Jones.Paramedics transported him to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers placed him under arrest.The Monroe County Sheriff's O... Read More
Chattanooga teen facing charges for shooting at group he was fighting in Hamilton Place Mall
by Sheridan Gaither on November 24th, 2025
From Local 3 News: A Chattanooga teen who police say shot himself in the foot while firing at a group he was fighting with at the Hamilton Place Mall is now facing multiple charges.Police were called to Dick's Sporting Goods after receiving reports of an active shooter Saturday afternoon, according to an arrest report obtained by Local 3 News.Employees told officers that someone shot themselves wh... Read More
Ringgold man accused in Bradley County of firing shots, ramming ex-girlfriend’s car in 2023 incident
by Sheridan Gaither on November 21st, 2025
From the Chattanooga Times Free Press: A Ringgold man is being held on a $755,000 bond in connection to a 2023 incident involving gunfire and a crash on I-75 in Bradley County.Matthew Allen McMurray is accused of shooting at and ramming his ex-girlfriend’s car, causing her to crash.The incident began in Bradley County on May 31, 2023, and ended in Hamilton County, where deputies found evidence lin... Read More
Tennessee parents sue to block new statewide private school voucher program
by Sheridan Gaither on November 21st, 2025
From News Channel 9: Some Tennessee parents have filed a lawsuit challenging the state’s new private school voucher program.The suit claims the Education Freedom Scholarship Act violates the state constitution and harms public school funding.It was filed on Thursday in Davidson County Chancery Court.The law gives eligible families $7,295 in public funds for private school tuition and expenses.Gove... Read More
Bradley County Sheriff’s Office investigating retaliatory assault on local judge
by Sheridan Gaither on November 21st, 2025
From Local 3 News: The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office says a local judge reported that a driver twice sped toward them while they were walking their dog in a Cleveland neighborhood on November 19.Deputies say Joshua Dale Phillip Sanford allegedly approached the judge aggressively with his car and made comments suggesting retaliation for past actions. He was later arrested and charged with aggrava... Read More
Outdoor burning guidelines across the TN Valley
by Sheridan Gaither on November 20th, 2025
From Local 3 News: Campfire season is just around the corner. Generally, you can throw twigs, small tree limbs, and leaves in your fire pit year-round.But before you start burning debris outdoors or hosting big bonfires, though, it's always important to review your local guidelines.Regardless where you are, officials say you should always:Check with local authorities to make sure there are no rest... Read More
Robin Smith requests probation sentence in public corruption scheme
by Sheridan Gaither on November 20th, 2025
From News Channel 9: A former state lawmaker from Hixson is asking for a *greatly reduced* sentence following her involvement in a public corruption scheme.Court documents show attorneys for Robin Smith have filed a motion for reconsideration.They argue the recent *presidential pardons* of former House Speaker Glen Casada and Cade Cothren leave Smith to suffer criminal consequences alone.Smith is ... Read More
Bradley county firefighters request 25% pay increase
by Sheridan Gaither on November 20th, 2025
From Local 3 News: Bradley County firefighters are asking commissioners to approve a 25% pay increase to bring starting salaries closer in line with surrounding fire agencies.Fire officials presented the request at the most recent County Commission meeting, saying the current starting salary of $38,000 per year is not competitive. A 25% increase would raise starting pay to about $48,000.Lt. Noah C... Read More
On a scammer's naughty list? Cleveland Police warn residents of uptick in holiday scams
by Sheridan Gaither on November 20th, 2025
From Local 3 News: The Cleveland Police Department and Santa are urging residents to stay alert as scam activity rises during the holiday season. Officials say scammers have recently impersonated the department, even claiming to be Cleveland Police Chief Gibson, to solicit money or resolve fake warrants. Police stress they will never call asking for donations or payments.Key red flags include:Fake... Read More
Bradley Co. man identified and in custody after medical call turns combative
by Sheridan Gaither on November 19th, 2025
From Local 3 News: Bradley County authorities recently resolved an armed encounter with a man that began with a medical call. It happened at a home in Northeast Bradley County near Urbane Road. The sheriff's office said first responders who were there on a medical call had to leave the home because of "the actions of the man they were trying to assist." They said it turned into a mental health cri... Read More
Dr. Corey Limburg named Tennessee Middle School Principal of the Year
by Sheridan Gaither on November 19th, 2025
Bradley County Schools congratulated Dr. Corey Limburg, who was named Tennessee’s Middle School Principal of the Year by the Tennessee Association of Secondary School Principals. Dr. Limburg leads Ocoee Middle School and was recognized by the organization for his leadership and dedication to students and staff.... Read More
Bradley County Fire Committee meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 19th, 2025
The Bradley County Fire Committee met yesterday. Employees of Bradley County Fire and Rescue attended the meeting and asked the committee for more funding.They cited a 69% turnover rate since 2020 and a starting salary of $38,000 as a reason to give the department more funding. The department is asking for a new starting pay of $48,078, along with raises for rank and longevity.Fire officials say t... Read More
Bradley County School Board meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 19th, 2025
The Bradley County School Board met last night for a work session. The focus of the work session was to talk about priorities of the school system. Although this was not a voting session, members discussed several capital outlay projects aimed at capacity issues, growth in the area, and opportunities for students. Board members discussed plans to add four new classrooms at Waterville Elementary. T... Read More
Suspect charged in Cleveland after gunshot victim found lying in parking lot
by Sheridan Gaither on November 18th, 2025
From News Channel 9: Cleveland Police Department is investigating a shooting that happened late Sunday night and left one man seriously injured.Around 10:53 p.m., officers responded to a call about gunfire at 920 25th Street. When they arrived, they found 24-year-old David “Brody” Bishop lying in the parking lot with a gunshot wound to the chest.Officers rendered first aid before EMS arrived and t... Read More
Bradley County Commission meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 18th, 2025
The Bradley County Commission met yesterday.County Mayor Gary Davis reminded county employees that open enrollment is happening this week and encouraged attendance at benefits meetings to ensure everyone understands their options.Under new business, the commission approved a 15-year lease agreement with the City of Cleveland for the parking lot at 95 Church Street. In exchange, the city will provi... Read More
TN SNAP benefits resumed Monday
by Sheridan Gaither on November 18th, 2025
From Local 3 News: Since the federal government shutdown is now over, the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is issuing full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting Monday, November 17. Tennessee SNAP recipients who have received part of their November benefits will soon receive the remainder of their November benefits, according to the TDHS. The remainder of ... Read More
Barry Ray named Lee University Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
by Sheridan Gaither on November 17th, 2025
From Lee University: Barry Ray, a 1981 graduate of Lee, was named the 2025 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year during the university’s Homecoming earlier this month. Ray was recognized for this honor during the Traditions of Lee music showcase. The highest honor given by the university to alumni, this award honors the excellence of a graduate who embraces the values of Lee. “I can’t think of a m... Read More
State officials warn of Bitcoin ATMs stealing seniors’ money
by Sheridan Gaither on November 17th, 2025
From WKRN: The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is warning about rising scams targeting seniors, especially through Bitcoin ATMs.More than $34 million in losses have been reported since October 2024.TBI Director David Rausch says scammers are using these machines to hide their identity, launder money, and take advantage of the elderly.Officials say no legitimate business or agency will ever ask s... Read More
Maryville officer in 'critical condition' after VP Vance motorcade crash
by Sheridan Gaither on November 17th, 2025
From Local 3 News: UPDATE: The Maryville Police Department has identified the officer who was injured during the motorcade for Vice President JD Vance.Field Training Officer Justin Brown suffered significant injuries and was taken into surgery Saturday morning at 10:00am, the department said.Several citizens who witnessed the crash stepped in to administer first aid, helping save the life of the o... Read More
Seven local communities among 30 in TN to receive 2025 Tourism Enhancement Grants
by Sheridan Gaither on November 14th, 2025
From Local 3 News: More than half a million dollars has been awarded to local communities by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD).On Wednesday, TDTD Commissioner Mark Ezell said that 30 towns, cities, or counties across the state, including seven local communities, will receive funding from the more than $2 million in Tourism Enhancement Grants being awarded.Here are the seven co... Read More
Bradley County Sheriff's Office to host blood drive Dec. 5
by Sheridan Gaither on November 14th, 2025
The Bradley County Sheriff’s Office will host a community blood drive on Friday, December 5.Blood Assurance will have its mobile donation center on-site at the Sheriff’s Office on Blythe Avenue from 12:00 to 3:00 PM.Appointments can be made online, but walk-ins are welcome. All eligible donors are encouraged to give.... Read More
Cleveland Christmas events coming up Nov. 22
by Sheridan Gaither on November 14th, 2025
Christmas on the Square and the MainStreet Cleveland Community Tree Lighting will take place Saturday, November 22, from 4 to 8 PM.The event will include ornament-making, holiday coloring, Christmas story time with local teachers, and s’mores at the fire pit.Live performances will feature the Cleveland City Ballet Rockettes and carolers from Good Soil Theatre Company.The Community Tree Lighting be... Read More
After partial SNAP payments, Gov. Lee says full benefits could be restored by Monday
by Sheridan Gaither on November 13th, 2025
From News Channel 9: Governor Bill Lee says Tennessee families relying on SNAP benefits should see full payments restored soon — possibly by Monday.During a visit to the Cookie Jar Café in Dunlap Wednesday, Lee told us partial benefits have already gone out to Tennessee households after the state applied for emergency approval Tuesday night.Tennesseans have paid their taxes to the federal governme... Read More
US government shutdown ends as President Trump signs funding bill into law
by Sheridan Gaither on November 13th, 2025
From News Channel 9: President Donald Trump signed the funding bill passed by Congress into law, ending the historic 43-day U.S. government shutdown on Wednesday night. During the bill signing in the Oval Office, Trump took a jab at the Democrats, blaming the shutdown on their party.“So I just want to tell the American people, you should not forget this,” Trump said. “When we come up to midterms a... Read More
Audit finds $47M error in Cleveland Veterans' Home finances
by Sheridan Gaither on November 13th, 2025
From News Channel 9: It's a system that's meant to care for those who have served our country.But a new state audit has uncovered delays, errors, and millions in financial oversight at the Tennessee State Veterans’ Home in Cleveland.That audit uncovered tens of millions of dollars in financial errors and system problems across Tennessee’s Veterans Homes.The audit, covering the year ending June 30,... Read More
Man charged with attempted murder after he admitted to lighting woman on fire
by Sheridan Gaither on November 12th, 2025
From Local 3 News: UPDATE: Deputies say a man intentionally set a woman on fire in Soddy-Daisy.An arrest report says Christopher Medula told deputies he poured gas and used a cigarette lighter to start the fire.A witness stopped Medula from running away until deputies arrived.The victim was flown to Nashville with third-degree burns on 70 percent of her body.Medula is in the Hamilton County Jail, ... Read More
Lee University's “Classic Christmas” to take place December 7
by Sheridan Gaither on November 12th, 2025
Lee University’s highly anticipated annual “Classic Christmas” concert will take place on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 3 p.m. in the Conn Center. The performance will feature a variety of Christmas music including “Carol of the Bells,” “Christmas Hymn,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” and “It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas,” among other favorites. Several of Lee’s vocal and instrumental ensembles will be feat... Read More
Bradley County School Board meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 12th, 2025
The Bradley County School Board met last night.Director of Schools, Dr. Linda Cash, praised local schools for recent achievements, including Lake Forest and Ocoee Middle School wrestling performances, Walker Valley Golf placing third at state, and Bradley Central Volleyball’s district championship.Walker Valley golfer Cody Walter was named the top golfer in the state.The district food drive, Read ... Read More
One dead in Madisonville house fire; Monroe County detective injured in separate crash
by Sheridan Gaither on November 11th, 2025
From Local 3 News: A man is dead following a house fire on Crowder Road in Madisonville on Monday afternoon. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office says the fire was reported around 4:00pm, and multiple fire departments responded.After the fire was put out, crews discovered the body of an adult male. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Bomb and Arson Division is investigating the case.As first res... Read More
Bradley County Schools announces Principal of the Year
by Sheridan Gaither on November 11th, 2025
Bradley County Schools has announced that Patrick Spangler has been named the 2025–2026 Bradley County Schools Principal of the Year.Spangler, who leads Bradley Central High School, was recognized for his passion and dedication to students and staff.... Read More
Bradley County Commission meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 11th, 2025
The Bradley County Commission met yesterday. Mayor Gary Davis introduced a resolution for a lease agreement with the city. If the county leases a parking lot on Church Street to the city, the city will pave over a nearby land bank property at no cost to the county. One parking space would be reserved for the Archives.Commissioner Tim Mason reported that 215 residents participated in Household Haza... Read More
Cleveland City Council meeting recap
by Sheridan Gaither on November 11th, 2025
The Cleveland City Council met yesterday. The Council approved the annexation and rezoning of nearly 800 acres, known as Hardwick Farms, owned by the Joe Stuart Estate. The property runs along Stuart Road and North Lee Highway. The area is planned for an “urban village” development featuring about 2,000 homes, village commercial space for local restaurants, a new city elementary school, and an 8-a... Read More
