SUMMARY: Tennessee Senator Joey Hensley has proposed a bill requiring blood donors to disclose their COVID-19 vaccination status, allowing recipients to choose between vaccinated and unvaccinated blood in non-emergency situations. Hensley, responding to constituents’ concerns about vaccine safety, emphasizes patient choice, although medical experts note no scientific evidence supports risks from vaccinated blood. Dr. Jennifer Andrews warns that the bill could undermine public trust in the blood supply, which is crucial for emergencies. Similar proposals have failed in other states, but Hensley aims to demonstrate public support for this choice in blood donations. A companion bill will be filed in the House.

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SUMMARY: A couple’s home in Hendersonville burned down while two nearby fire stations could not respond due to a dispute over mutual aid agreements. The mayor blamed the volunteer fire department, Shackle Island, for not signing an agreement that would allow city firefighters to assist. The homeowner, Ray Rainey, expressed frustration, highlighting the close proximity of the city fire department and underscoring the urgency to resolve the conflict. Mayor Clary stated he was willing to negotiate again, but concerns about leadership in emergency situations remain. Meanwhile, the volunteer fire chief insisted that agreements were not necessary for mutual aid.

The home of a husband and wife burned down even though two fire stations were less than ten minutes away.

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SUMMARY: During Black History Month, East Tennessee highlights Bob Booker, who desegregated downtown Knoxville. Born in 1935 in the segregated South, he became Knoxville’s first black Tennessee representative and a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement. He served in the military for three years, experiencing freedom for the first time, and upon returning, he was determined to challenge societal segregation. Throughout his life, Booker engaged with thousands of students, promoting local black contributions through his writings. A documentary celebrating his impactful life and legacy will stream later on WB Plus, showcasing his role as a leader and historian in East Tennessee.

Booker was born in a segregated South in 1935 and later became Knoxville’s first Black Tennessee representative.

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