From TN.gov: The statewide unemployment rate remained unchanged in May at 3.6%, according to the latest data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD). This marks the fourth consecutive month the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has been 3.6%. One year ago, the state’s unemployment rate in May was 3.5%.

Tennessee’s unemployment rate continues to track well below the U.S. rate, which was 4.3% in both May 2025 and last month.

Between April and May 2026, Tennessee employers added 5,700 nonfarm jobs. The largest increases were in the leisure and hospitality sector, followed by durable goods manufacturing and government.

Over the past year, nonfarm employment increased by 8,000 jobs, with the biggest gains in the health care and social assistance sector, followed by the administrative, support, and waste services sector, and leisure and hospitality.

TDLWD has compiled an analysis of the May 2026 unemployment data.

Tennessee’s Industry and Wage data provides valuable insight for job seekers, students, and career changers exploring opportunities across the state's diverse economy.

By comparing wages across industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation and warehousing, individuals can identify sectors that offer strong earning potential while also considering factors such as employment demand, industry growth, and long-term career stability.

Access to wage and industry data helps Tennesseans make informed decisions about education, training, and career pathways that align with workforce needs and personal goals.

These data resources serve as an important tool for connecting talent with opportunity and supporting long-term economic success. The state’s latest data is available on the Industry Employment and Wages dashboard.

Tennessee will release the May 2026 unemployment data for all 95 counties on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. CDT.

From News Channel 9: Two Monroe County Sheriff’s Department employees have been indicted following an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

Investigators say fleet manager Neal Townsend and maintenance garage employee Jamey Lee Frank improperly used an inmate assigned to the sheriff’s department maintenance garage for work on private property.

The investigation found that the inmate was transported to a privately owned watercraft repair business where both employees also worked. Video reportedly showed the inmate performing work on vehicles and equipment at the business and assisting with raising a sunken boat.

Authorities also found the inmate operated vehicles without supervision and used tobacco products while at the business. Investigators say Frank had not completed required inmate supervision training.
 
Frank was indicted on charges of official misconduct and unlawful use of inmates.

Townsend was also indicted on the same charges.

From News 12: The Athens Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating 18-year-old Cornelius Raeshaun Hurst in connection with a shooting at McMinn Village Apartments on Westside Street.

Police say officers responded to reports of gunfire and found that a person had been struck by a projectile. The victim was taken to a local hospital, and their identity has not been released.

Hurst is wanted on charges of attempted first-degree murder and multiple counts of reckless endangerment.

Authorities say he should be considered armed and extremely dangerous. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Athens Police Department.

From Local 3 News: The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office announced on Thursday that a man has been sentenced to prison in connection with a fentanyl overdose death.

Calvin Suttles pleaded guilty to facilitation of second-degree murder on Wednesday, June 17, according to Sheriff Tommy Jones. Judge Andrew Freiberg then sentenced Suttles to eight years in prison to be served at 100%.

Sheriff Jones said the overdose happened on December 10, 2023, on Ridge Road.

After reviewing surveillance footage, detectives determined that Suttles provided fentanyl to the victim, Lamar Rose. Authorities said the two met at the Pilot Fuel Station in Madisonville, Tennessee.

Suttles admitted to delivering fentanyl to Rose, according to Monroe County authorities.

Within two hours of receiving the fentanyl, Rose died of an overdose.

“This case serves as a sobering reminder of the deadly consequences of fentanyl. What may seem like a single purchase can end in tragedy within hours,” Sheriff Jones said in a social media post.

From Local 3 News: The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is encouraging people traveling this weekend to monitor weather conditions closely, as storms are expected to move in beginning Thursday.

Officials say the system could bring strong winds and heavy rain, potentially impacting travel routes and conditions across Tennessee.

Travelers are urged to check forecasts before departing, monitor weather updates along their route, and turn on emergency alerts for real-time notifications. It is also recommended to plan alternate routes in case of delays or road closures.

TEMA also advises drivers to pack a roadside emergency kit, share travel plans with someone before leaving, and consider pets when making travel arrangements.

Cleveland City Schools has named Dr. Keri Miles as the new principal of Mayfield Elementary School beginning with the upcoming school year.

Dr. Miles is a Cleveland City Schools graduate who attended Mayfield Elementary, Cleveland Middle School, and Cleveland High School.

She currently serves as the sixth-grade assistant principal at Cleveland Middle School and has spent the past four years supporting students, teachers, and families.

Director of Schools Dr. Jeff Elliott said Dr. Miles brings experience as a teacher, school counselor, and administrator, and has a strong commitment to students and families.

Dr. Miles has worked in education for 21 years and is entering her 22nd year. She joined Cleveland City Schools in 2022 and is also a National Certified Counselor.

Miles said returning to Mayfield as principal is especially meaningful because of the role the school played in her own educational journey.

From The Chattanoogan: Stephen Hatchett, District Attorney General for Tennessee’s 10th Judicial District, has been elected to the Executive Committee of the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference.

Hatchett was chosen by fellow district attorneys from across the state and will help guide decisions involving public safety and the administration of justice in Tennessee.

Hatchett said he is honored to serve on the committee and praised the work district attorneys and their staffs do to help keep Tennesseans safe.

A native of the Coker Creek community in Monroe County, Hatchett previously served as an assistant district attorney, assistant public defender, and spent eight years in private practice before being elected District Attorney General in 2024.

Executive Director Stephen Crump said the committee plays a key role in improving public safety and ensuring the efficient administration of justice across the state.

Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area is opening a new location in southeast Cleveland later this month.

The new store, located at 2010 Broomfield Road Southeast in the former Fresh ‘N Low grocery building, will officially open June 25.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 8:30 a.m., with doors opening to the public at 9 a.m.

The more than 15,000-square-foot facility will include a retail store, a Donation Xpress Center, and space for a future Goodwill Opportunity Center.

The current Goodwill store on Paul Huff Parkway will remain open.

The nonprofit says the new location will help expand services in Bradley County, including free career search and employment-readiness assistance through its Opportunity Center programs.

The grand opening celebration will feature giveaways, door prizes, and appearances by Goodwill’s Smiling G mascot.

Juneteenth in the Park is scheduled for Saturday, June 20, at Mosby Park in Cleveland.

The event begins at 11 a.m. and will feature food, live music and family-friendly activities.

Free swimming lessons will be available for children in middle school and younger.

The NAACP of Bradley County will also present a historical review of Juneteenth.

A three-on-three basketball tournament is planned for high school-age participants and older.

The event is sponsored by the NAACP of Bradley County, the City of Cleveland, and City Fields.

From Local 3 News: Recent sightings of several cracks along a bridge in Meigs County are sparking concern over safety and the bridge’s integrity.

The Tri-County Veterans Bridge sits along Highway 60 between Meigs and Rhea County over the Tennessee River.

Local Sky 3 shows a large split near the middle of the bridge and multiple cracks along the concrete siding.

The Tri-County Veterans Bridge sits along Highway 60 between Meigs and Rhea County over the Tennessee River.

A TDOT report from 2022 lists the bridge as in “poor” condition.

Following the increase in concerns surrounding the bridge, community member Stephen Eimers took a look at the bridge for himself. Eimers tells Local 3 News that residents are missing another safety concern.

"They're afraid about the wrong thing, and ultimately, if you drive straight and stay in your lanes, I don't think that bridge is going anywhere, but the concrete bridge rails, I have some real concerns, whether they're crash-worthy,” said Eimers.

Stephen Eimers, also known as “The Guardrail Guy,” travels nationally to raise awareness on longitudinal barriers, such as guardrails, following his daughter’s death in 2016.

We reached out to the Tennessee Department of Transportation regarding these concerns and were told the bridge is safe.

“TDOT is aware of the concerns raised, and our bridge inspection crews are actively monitoring the structure. The bridge is inspected in accordance with state and federal guidelines, and current evaluations show that it remains safe for travel. If the bridge is open, it is safe to drive on. If it were ever deemed unsafe, we would take immediate action, including closing the bridge if necessary. A comprehensive repair plan is already in place as part of a longer-range bridge maintenance program. The visual components referenced do not affect the bridge's structural integrity and were previously added to the scope of the upcoming project, which is expected to go to contract early this fall. These improvements reflect our ongoing commitment to maintaining the bridge’s safety and reliability. We will continue to monitor the bridge and keep the public informed as the repair project progresses.”

Eimers says he agrees with TDOT about the safety of the bridge itself. However, his concerns are towards the concrete guardrails and their ability to sustain a crash.

"I'm not a structural engineer, and I don't even claim to be one, but my confidence is that that bridge is not imminently going to collapse. I do believe TDOT is telling the truth there…I think that our concern is not down, it's out, is going to be where the issue is with the crash worthiness of those rails,” said Eimers.

From Local 3 News: The Chattanooga Area Food Bank will be holding their quarterly community food distribution in Cleveland on Thursday, June 18.

The event will be held from 9:00am to 12:00pm at the Mission Cleveland Parish.
 
Distribution is available for those in need of food assistance, with a variety of groceries offered:

“We encourage those who may benefit from this program to attend and share this information with others in our community.”

Blood Assurance will host three community blood drives on June 24.

Donation opportunities will be available at Crown Cleveland Jeep from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., the American Legion from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., and Mountain View Nissan from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.

Organizers say a single blood donation can help save up to three lives.

Appointments can be scheduled through Blood Assurance, and walk-ins will also be accepted.

The Cleveland City School Board met yesterday and received an update on the district’s personal communication device ban.

Cleveland High School Assistant Principal David Turner told board members the policy has improved student engagement and reduced classroom distractions.

Students are not allowed to use personal devices such as cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, AirPods, or gaming devices during the school day.

Turner said teachers have reported stronger classroom participation since the policy was implemented.

He also reported a 16 percent reduction in out-of-school suspensions compared to the previous school year.

School officials say they have also seen increased student interaction and socialization during lunch periods.

The school board also unanimously approved the purchase of a new special populations school bus.

The district authorized up to $185,000 for the purchase due to rising bus costs.

Board members also approved several facility improvement projects, including gym floor repairs, utility upgrades, cooling system improvements, and other maintenance work across multiple schools.

From Local 3 News: Nara Organics is voluntarily recalling all lots of its powdered infant formula due to a potential risk of Clostridium botulinum contamination, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says.

The recall affects Nara Organics Whole Milk Infant Formula in both 700-gram and 400-gram containers sold nationwide through Target stores, Target.com, and Nara.com between July 2025 and June 2026.

According to the company, the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notified Nara of three reported cases of infant botulism involving babies who consumed the formula. The infants were hospitalized in California, Washington, and Pennsylvania, and treated for the illness. No deaths have been reported.

The FDA notes that infant botulism is a rare but serious illness that can cause symptoms including constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, weak crying, muscle weakness, and breathing difficulties.

Nara said its formula has not tested positive for C. botulinum, but the company is recalling all products currently on the market out of an abundance of caution.

Consumers are urged to stop using the recalled formula immediately and contact a healthcare provider if their child shows symptoms of infant botulism.

Customers may request refunds through Nara Organics or return products purchased at Target.

From Local 3 News: Cleveland Utilities will perform a traffic signal upgrade at the intersection of Keith Street and 20th Street on Tuesday, June 16.

Work will begin around 8:00am and will take about eight hours, ending at around 4:00pm, according to Cleveland Utilities. They ask the public to avoid the intersection and take another route during this time.

Cleveland Utilities provided a detour map, showing there will be road closures.

The Bradley County Commission met yesterday.

Commissioners approved the final budget amendments by unanimous votes.

The commission recognized School Resource Officer Tommy Kimsey of Michigan Avenue Elementary after he was named Tennessee School Resource Officer of the Year.

Sheriff Steve Lawson said Kimsey created a program that teaches students about 911 services and the roles of law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency responders.

During public comments, several speakers addressed a proposed property tax increase and salary raises for first responders.

Some residents urged commissioners to fund raises without increasing property taxes, while others spoke about challenges facing law enforcement and emergency personnel and the need for higher pay to remain competitive with neighboring agencies.

The commission announced a special-called meeting on June 26 at noon, where it is expected they will vote on the budget and tax rate.

County offices will be closed on June 19th in observance of Juneteenth.

From the Chattanoogan: Tennessee revenues exceeded budgeted estimates for the month of May. Department of Finance and Administration Commissioner Jim Bryson reported Friday that total May tax revenues were $1.9 billion, $227.2 million more than the budgeted estimate and $244.7 million more than May 2025. The total tax growth rate for the month was 14.38 percent.

General fund revenues were $221.1 million more than the May estimate, while the four other funds that share in state tax revenues were $6.1 million more than the estimates.

“Tax revenue growth in May exceeded expectations,” Comm.

Bryson said. “An increase in corporate quarterly estimated tax payments and solid sales tax receipts, driven by April taxable sales activity, lifted overall monthly revenues. All other tax categories combined performed near budgeted expectations.

With just two months left in the 2025–2026 fiscal year, we remain optimistic and will continue to monitor the year-end results.”

On a year-to-date basis, August through May, total tax revenues are 2.60 percent greater than the budget estimate, or $482.5 million above expectations. When compared to this same period last year, total tax revenues have grown 6.54 percent or $1.2 billion.

General fund revenues are 2.83 percent greater than the year-to-date budgeted estimate, or $443.2 million higher. Likewise, general fund collections compared to this same period last year have increased 6.38 percent or $966.0 million.

Individual tax performance compared to May 2026 Budgeted Estimates:
- Sales Taxes: Above estimate by 3.11 percent or $39.2 million
- Corporate Taxes (Franchise & Excise): Above estimate by 185.19 percent or $187.7 million
- Fuel Taxes: Below estimates by 0.47 percent or $0.5 million
 - All other taxes: Above estimate by 0.32 percent or $0.8 million

Year-to-date performance compared to Budgeted Estimates:
- Sales Taxes: Above estimate by 1.81 percent or $224.6 million
- Corporate Taxes (Franchise & Excise): Above estimate by 5.35 percent or $169.7 million
- Fuel Taxes: Below estimates by 0.11 percent or $1.2 million
- All other taxes: Above estimate by 4.67 percent or $89.4 million

Individual tax performance compared to May 2025:
- Sales Taxes: Up 3.55 percent or $44.6 million
- Corporate Taxes (Franchise & Excise): Up 162.46 percent or $178.9 million
- Fuel Taxes: Up 1.70 percent or $1.8 million
- All other taxes: Up 8.48 percent or $19.5 million

Individual tax performance compared to August 2024 through May 2025:
- Sales Taxes: Up 4.22 percent or $511.9 million
- Corporate Taxes (Franchise & Excise): Up 18.38 percent or $518.7 million
- Fuel Taxes: Down 0.13 percent or $1.4 million
- All other taxes: Up 7.52 percent or $140.1 million

The budgeted revenue estimates for 2025–2026 are based on the State Funding Board’s consensus recommendation from Nov. 25, 2024, which was adopted by the first session of the 114th General Assembly in May 2025. These estimates also incorporate any revenue changes enacted during the 2025 General Assembly session. Monthly estimates for fiscal year 2025–2026 are available on the state’s website.

On Nov 24, 2025, the State Funding Board reconvened and recommended updated revenue projections for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. The Board adopted revised growth ranges of 1.59 percent to 2.04 percent for total taxes and 0.72 percent to 1.32 percent for general fund revenues. Both the Board’s upper-limit projection and the growth assumptions outlined in Governor Lee’s budget proposal for the second session of the 114th General Assembly reflect no changes to the Department of Revenue’s original state tax revenue estimates for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.

On May 16 during the second session of the 114th General Assembly, the Legislature passed the 2026–2027 budget, incorporating the revised revenue ranges recommended by both the Governor and the Funding Board. The appropriations bill, PC 1142, was signed into law by the Governor on May 22.

From Local 3 News: Firefighters worked for more than four hours to control a blaze at the Jackson Manufacturing Router Plant on Goldstar Drive in Cleveland.

The industrial fire response began around 6:40pm on Thursday, June 11, according to a statement from the Cleveland Fire Department.

Nine different fire rescue companies, comprised of 38 firefighters, responded to the scene.

Several firefighters received treatment on the scene for heat-related issues. Paramedics took one to the Bradley Medical Center for evaluation.

No word yet on what caused the fire.

From Local 3 News: UPDATE: Bradley County deputies arrested a man connected to a stabbing incident that occurred on Old Charleston Road NE on Friday night, June 12.

Robert Dakota “Cody” Partin, 28, is now in custody and charged with attempted second-degree murder.

“The Bradley County Sheriff's Office thanks the public for its assistance and vigilance during the search.”

Partin is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, June 15.

The agency did not share any additional information about the circumstances of his arrest, nor about the condition of the victim.

We are working to learn more.


PREVIOUS STORY: The Bradley County Sheriff's Office is searching for a man wanted for attempted second-degree murder following a stabbing Friday on Old Charleston Road NE.

Investigators say 28-year-old Robert Dakota "Cody" Partin stabbed a relative multiple times during an incident at a home on June 12. The victim was transported to a hospital. Officials have not released additional details about the victim's condition.

According to the sheriff's office, Partin fled before deputies arrived and remains at large. He was last seen wearing black shorts and a blue shirt and is believed to have been on foot in the northern portion of the Old Charleston Road area. Authorities do not believe he has access to a vehicle.

Deputies launched an extensive search using patrol units, a K-9 team, and a drone, but Partin has not yet been found.

Partin is described as a white male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing about 225 pounds, with brown hair, brown eyes, and glasses.

The sheriff's office warns that Partin should be considered armed and dangerous and urges the public not to approach him. Anyone with information on his whereabouts should contact the Bradley County Sheriff's Office or call 911.

The investigation remains ongoing.

A Bradley County educator is receiving national recognition for excellence in skilled trades education.

Rob Parker has been named one of 50 finalists nationwide for the 2026 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence.

The award recognizes outstanding teachers who prepare students for careers in the skilled trades and help build the future workforce.

Parker’s selection places him among the top career and technical education instructors in the country as he advances in the national competition.

From Local 3 News: The Rhea County Sheriff’s Department will host a public auction of confiscated, seized, and surplus vehicles this weekend.

Sheriff Mike Neal says it will be Saturday, June 13, at 11:00am in the agency’s training center.

The following vehicles will be sold as is:

• 2010 Hyundai Elantra - KMHDU4AD3AU014981
• 2012 Chevy Cruze 4D - 1G1PC5SH6C7266309
• 2004 Cadillac Deville 4D - 1G6KD54Y44U178831
• 2005 Chevy Equinox - 2CNDL73FX56091029
• 2000 Chrysler Van - 1C4GP64L9YB713173
• 2012 Ford Escape - 1FMCU0D70CK36578
• 2003 RAM 1500 - 1D7HA16K33J504805
• 2008 Honda Accord - 1HGCP26828A114235
• 2004 Toyota Camry - 4T1BE32K14U366697
• 1993 Ford Escort - 1FAPP15J8PW349261
• 2009 Dodge Charger - 2B3KA43D49H539288
• 2011 Buick Lucerne - 1G4HC5EM9BU130191
• 2001 Honda CBR 600F - JH2PC35031M206124
• 2000 Chevy Silverado - 1GCEK19T3YE132610
• 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser - 3A8FY58909T598716
• 1999 GMC Sonoma - 1GTCS1440X8510385
• 1993 Ford Ranger - 1FTCR10A8PPB20843
• 1973 GMC C2500 - TCY233A508685
• 1994 Ford Ranger - 1FTCR14U2RPB15418
• 2006 Kia Spectra 4D - KNAFE121165325692
• 2002 Dodge RAM 1500 2D - 1D7HA16K82J258137
• 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer DE - JA3AU16U38U005358
• 2016 Chevy Sonic - 1G1JC5SHXG4175802
• 2010 Ford Mustang - 1ZVBP8ANXA5128437
• 2007 Honda Accord - 1HGCM66537A089530
• 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo - 1J4GW48S0YC364241
• 1995 Chevy Lumina - 2G1WN52MOS9233208
• 2017 Honda Civic - 19XFC2F51HE012600
• 2003 Toyota 4Runner - JTEZU14R330001203
• 2014 Volkswagon Jetta - 3VWD17AJEM434819
• 2012 Chevy Camaro - 2G1FS1EW4C9205864
• 2004 Infiniti 135 - JNKDA31A94T211269
• 2007 Dodge Nitro - 1D8GU28K67W526744
• 2008 Ford F150 - 1FTPW14V58FA36848
• 2006 Toyota Rav4 - JTMZD33V065014626
• 2006 Chevy 1500 - 1GCEC14X76Z108775
• 2015 Mercedes Benz C-Class - 55SWF4KB3FU030214
• 2008 Audi Na4 - WAUAF78E68A070696
• 2014 Harley Davidson FHX St. Glide - 1HD1KBM11EB622369
• Coleman Mini Bike - Gas operated
• 2000 Ford Econoline - 1FDWE35F3YHA27518
• 2010 Ford Explorer - 1FMEU7D8XAUA48677
• 2017 Dodge Charger - 2C3CDXKT9HH621444
• 2019 Dodge Charger - 2C3CDXKT1KH555124
• 2019 Dodge Charger - 2C3CDXKT8KH555122
• 2019 Dodge Charger - 2C3CDXKTOKH5820010
• 2016 Dodge Charger - 2C3CDXAGXGH228250
• 2015 Ford Explorer - 1FMK8AR0FGA21339
• 2011 Chevrolet Camaro - 2G1FB1ED1B9141280
• 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 - 1D7HU18D94J236866
• 2000 Ford F150 - 1FTZX172XYNA19668
• 2006 Yamaha 200 Hp - 63PX 1027743
• 2006 Yamaha 200 Hp - 63PX 1027065
• 2005 Polaris Ranger 500 - 4XARD50A45D724105
• Miscellaneous vehicle parts

You can inspect the vehicle at 10:00am on the date of the sale.

Besides the cars, there will also be collectible coins and silver up for auction.

Sheriff Neal says it is an absolute auction, and payment must be made at the time of sale and property moved within a week.

Bradley County Fire Rescue are giving away free smoke alarms at a community event this Saturday, June 13.

The department is partnering with the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s office as a part of the Tennessee Get Alarmed program to help keep the community safe.

They say if your home needs working smoke alarms, stop by the Bradley County Fire Rescue Charleston Fire Station 9 on 8824 Hiwassee Street NE.

Alarms are only available to Bradley County residents, and they say you may need proof of residency to get an alarm.

The event is a chance to meet your local firefighters, learn about fire safety, and receive smoke alarms for your home if you qualify.

They say to remember that working smoke alarms can save lives by providing an early warning in the event of a fire.

The Bradley County Board of Education has approved moving forward with plans for a new track and field facility at Bradley Central High School.

Board members unanimously approved several motions related to the project during Thursday night’s meeting.

School officials said Bradley County has already allocated $1.8 million for the facility, but initial construction bids exceeded the budget.

The district is reviewing revised proposals and expects to approve a final vendor in August, with construction expected to begin in September.

In other business, the board approved federal funding applications, authorized certain capital projects, and approved the purchase of a new special education bus.

From the Chattanoogan: The Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation Program announces that it has granted accreditation status to the Cleveland Polce Department. This is the 5th TLEA award for the department. They were awarded this achievement during the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police meeting held in Nashville last week.

Officials said, "To achieve accreditation with TLEA, an agency voluntarily submits to a three-year process of enhancing the agency’s professionalism and effectiveness utilizing 164 law enforcement standards and participating in a thorough on-site assessment.

The standards are used to evaluate an agency’s policies which address a variety of areas including organizational, operational, and budget management practices. The program is intended to encourage cooperation, recognize professional standing, develop professional services, and ensure public safety throughout the State of Tennessee. The TLEA program is a valuable and cost-effective way to enhance overall agency effectiveness and professionalism."

The Cleveland Police Department successfully accomplished TLEA accreditation by meeting criteria that measured the level of professionalism, organization and overall readiness in law enforcement policy and procedures.

“The standard of excellence that is met through this process is to be admired. We are proud to recognize the hard work of the Cleveland Police Department, its staff, and community leaders,” said TACP President Don White.

“I believe being an accredited agency means each member of the Cleveland Police Department is devoted to providing professional services to every person and each day will continue to provide service and protection to all citizens and visitors of Cleveland, Tennessee,” said Cleveland Police Chief Mark Gibson.

Officials said, "The TLEA program was created under the direction and authority of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police which supports and endorses the continued improvement of law enforcement and emergency communications operations. This program provides a framework for Tennessee law enforcement agencies to have equal access to effective and comprehensive polices that enhance the professionalism of law enforcement and the safety of our communities.

"The TLEA Accreditation status represents a significant professional achievement and acknowledges the successful implementation of written directives, policies and procedures that are conceptually sound and operationally effective. It takes commitment, dedication, and hard work from the agency head, agency personnel and community leaders to meet the standards prescribed by the program."

From Local 3 News: Candy's Creek Cherokee Elementary School in Cleveland has been named a 2025-2026 Tree Campus by the Arbor Day Foundation.

This recognition celebrates the school's commitment to trees, environmental education, hands-on learning and community engagement.

Rebecca Lay, teacher and PTO leader, spearheaded the effort to earn the recognition by working with students, families, staff and community partners.

Trees on campus help reduce extreme heat, improve air quality, support physical health and contribute to mental and cognitive well-being for the students.

"This is such exciting news for Candy's Creek Cherokee Elementary School," said Dr. Jeff Elliott, Director of Cleveland City Schools. "The trees on this campus make it a beautiful place to learn and grow, but this recognition is really about much more than that. It reflects the hard work, creativity, and partnerships that are helping students connect with nature in meaningful ways. We are especially proud of Mrs. Lay for her leadership as both a teacher and PTO leader, and for the heart she has put into making this recognition possible."

In order to be named a Tree Campus by the Arbor Day Foundation, schools must maintain a tree campus team, create an education plan that connects students to trees and their benefits, offer a hands-on experience that engages students with trees and the community and hold an Arbor Day celebration.

Congratulations to the school and principal Sara Whitener.