Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has officially signed the legislation that would allow school districts to permit teachers to conceal carry on school grounds. The measure, which garnered significant backlash from teachers and parents—including Covenant families—ultimately passed along party lines despite repeated attempted amendments proposed by Democrats. According to the amended bill, teachers would be able …
Tag: Whitwell News
All but One Area Tennessee County Unemployment Rate Rises in March
Newly released data from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) documented that unemployment rates have decreased in 12 counties across the state. Ten counties recorded rates that did not change from month to month, while 73 counties did see a slight uptick in their unemployment levels. Williamson and Moore counties both had rates …
Booting Bill Heads to Gov. Lee
The Tennessee State House and Senate unanimously approved a bill that aims to prevent car owners from being unfairly immobilized by unlicensed individuals. The bill generally prohibits the booting of vehicles in Tennessee unless by licensed individuals through a local government. The bill also requires that car owners be properly notified should their vehicle be …
Bill would Fine Parents of Guardians for Child’s Criminal Offenses
A proposal that would allow parents to be fined for their child’s criminal offenses is headed to Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his approval. The House approved allowing judges to levy up to $1,000 in fines against parents or legal guardians of children who commit a second criminal offense. The chamber voted 72-24 to …
It’s Cornbread Festival Time in South Pittsburg
This week is the National Cornbread Festival. The carnival has begun, and the official festival runs Saturday and Sunday. Come on out and play games, ride rides, and enjoy wandering through the booths that line the streets of historic South Pittsburg, TN. Stroll down Cornbread Alley, where you can taste all the different recipes using …
Marion County High School Wins Award for Voter Registration
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett recently announced that Marion County High School has won the prestigious Anne Dallas Dudley Silver Level Award. The school earned this designation by registering 85 percent of its eligible students to vote. “Exceeding the 85 percent threshold is a distinction achieved by only 51 high schools in the entire …
Valley Fest May 4 & 5 in Dunlap
Don’t forget that more fun and entertainment is coming to Sequatchie Valley. Valley Fest is a two-day Family Festival in the heart of Dunlap. This annual event features a Carnival, Food, Crafts and Artisans, and fantastic Music. This is the 12th year for Valley Fest, and this year’s event will be held on May 4 …
Give Day for Chattanooga State is Wednesday
Wednesday is Give Day for Chattanooga State. It helps keep students in college! Many students face financial barriers, such as food insecurities, auto repairs, high utility bills, etc., which force them to work more and focus less on college or even drop out. Please donate on April 24 at chattanoogastate.edu/donate By donating on Give Day …
Shredding Day is May 3 at Colonial Chemical
The Marion County Chamber of Commerce announces “Shredding Day” on Friday, May 3rd. from 9:00 AM until noon ET at Colonial Chemical, 225 Colonial Drive in New Hope. Shredding trucks will be there, accepting paper only—no cardboard or foam. You can take your shredded paper with you for packing.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee’s School Voucher Program Fails
Governor Bill Lee and several lawmakers have spent the last year pushing a proposal to provide universal school choice to all Tennessee students, better known as the school voucher program. However, the proposed school voucher bill is dead after lawmakers were unable to negotiate on certain stipulations. Gov. Bill Lee statement: I am extremely disappointed …



