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.

Source

SUMMARY: In Tennessee, there have been 130 railroad accidents this year, resulting in 13 deaths, including a recent incident where 66-year-old Shirley Holland was killed when her car was struck by a train. Her daughter raised safety concerns about the crossing, noting the absence of lights and gate arms, which may have contributed to the tragedy. The Tennessee Department of Transportation stated that the crossing should have train-activated flashing lights and is investigating. Holland’s family has launched a GoFundMe to cover funeral expenses, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures at the crossing.

A woman’s car was hit by a train Friday in Portland, TN.

Source

SUMMARY: The Knoxville Convention Center is transforming into a winter wonderland for the annual Fantasy of Trees event, which raises funds for East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. Volunteers are setting up trees, wreaths, and decorations created by designers, schools, and community groups. The event, open to the public starting Wednesday, will feature this year’s theme, “It’s Christmas Time in the City,” inspired by Central Park. Highlights include a canine café, a doggy wedding, and Santa photos for dogs. Fantasy of Trees runs through Sunday, with special hours on Thanksgiving Day, and Tabel Town will broadcast live on Tuesday.

The event will run from Nov. 27 to Dec. 1.

Source