SUMMARY: Tennessee’s legislative session is reconsidering school voucher programs, allowing families to use public funds for private education. House Speaker Cameron Sexton emphasized the need for equitable opportunities, particularly for low-income families in failing schools. The revised proposal, the Education Freedom Scholarship Act, aims to expand taxpayer-funded scholarships and improve the application process by adding priority lists based on family income. Critics argue it might divert funds from public schools and lack sufficient oversight for accountability. Despite ongoing discussions about its implications, Sexton believes quality education access is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty. For further details, visit wbir.com.

School voucher programs are back on the table for Tennessee’s state legislative session.

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SUMMARY: As holiday shopping intensifies, Mount Juliet Police are implementing “Operation Safe Shopper” to prevent retail theft. The initiative involves increased patrols and mobile surveillance at shopping centers, alongside undercover officers. The department enforces a zero tolerance policy on shoplifting, ensuring immediate arrest for offenders. A Motorola Solutions study highlights that 57% of retail workers feel unsafe during the peak season, citing rising crime rates like petty theft. Police Chief Michael Mullen emphasizes a visible presence to ensure safety, urging shoppers to report suspicious behavior, park in well-lit areas, and use credit or debit cards instead of cash. Traffic monitoring will also improve congestion.

The Mt. Juliet Police Department said it’s increasing efforts to protect the community from retail crime this holiday season.

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SUMMARY: After Hurricane Helene, Newport businesses are still struggling to recover. Many had to close for weeks due to flooding, with 2 to 3 feet of water damaging their stores. Though they have reopened, customer traffic is down by 20-40%, as rerouted roads discourage visits. Business owners express gratitude for community support but emphasize the need for more customers, especially through the holiday season. They urge locals to continue supporting small businesses to ensure the town’s survival. With limited access to I-40 and fewer visitors, these businesses face a challenging winter ahead.

With fewer North Carolina customers, they are relying on East Tennesseans to help them through the holiday season.

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