The Cumberland County Board of Education voted 5-4 not to renew director William Stepp's contract, indicating leadership challenges within the district.

A book titled "Taylor Swift and the Philosophy of Re-recording" edited by philosopher Brandon Polite explores themes around music re-recording, inspired by Taylor Swift's situation with ownership rights.

Former President Joe Biden's farewell speech referenced concerns similar to those in Andrew Jackson's farewell about the threat of oligarchy, drawing historical parallels.

The Johnson City Fire Department introduces a hands-only CPR training course following community demand, with plans to expand it after internal employee training.

Rep. Tim Burchett joins the Department of Government Efficiency to assist in reducing federal jobs and regulations, amidst concerns of Elon Musk's potential conflicts of interest.

The University of Tennessee's Board of Trustees Executive Committee will meet virtually on January 24, with President Boyd providing updates and planning the winter 2025 meeting.

Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs endorses Senator Marsha Blackburn for Tennessee governor, hinting he may seek her Senate seat if she runs. Blackburn could become the state's first female governor.

Kingsport will host its 25th MLK Day Parade on January 20, 2025, promoting love over racism and supporting the "Putting Babies First" service initiative.

Gatlinburg closed its administrative offices early due to a winter storm, halting non-essential services like the trolley system, while essential city workers maintain operations.

Traffic fatalities in Knoxville rose by 14% in 2024, with a total of 52 lives lost, prompting public safety concerns from officials and a commitment to the Vision Zero initiative.

Knoxville has received a $24.7 million RAISE grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for a new South Knoxville Pedestrian Bridge, part of a broad community development effort.

The Knoxville City Council approved a $28 million deal with Axon to upgrade the Police Department's technology, including body cameras and a real-time information center, despite concerns over privacy and racial disparities.

Knoxville reports a decline in key crimes for 2024, with a notable drop in non-fatal shootings and a slight decrease in murders. Officials credit police work and community collaboration for the improvements.