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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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.

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