Sparta water crews spent hours trying to repair a main water line bust this week on Gaines Street. Water Department Superintendent Greg O’Neal said his crew stood knee deep in water in temperatures only in the teens. O’Neal said his crew’s safety was a big priority. “The guys do get wet,” O’Neal said. “We keep a couple of trucks running ... Read More »

With two more nights of single-digit temperatures, the risk of house fires increases this weekend. Baxter Fire Lieutenant Zachary Womack said fighting fires in freezing temperatures is about making sure to be prepared ahead of time. He said ensuring equipment is in working order and hoses are not frozen is the first priority. He said next is to ensure the ... Read More »

The Northwest Clay Utility District needs your help in finding a potential busted water line. The district said the Hermitage Springs tank is lower than it should be. This is normally a sign of unusual water usage. If you live past Head Equipment near the Macon County line keep an eye out for water leaks. Things to look out for ... Read More »

Van Buren County Sheriff Michael Brock has confirmed the death of a man at Fall Creek Falls State Park earlier this week was directly related to the cold weather. Brock confirmed the cause of death Thursday evening after receiving reports from the medical examiner. Dozens of emergency workers spent almost 17 hours from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday morning searching for ... Read More »

If your kids are climbing the walls or maybe you are following this week’s weather, White County Library Director Cathy Farley said you can take advantage of resources online. Farley said membership to the library gives you access to the Tennessee Electronic Library that offers plenty of reading and activities for kids to do. “Anytime that you are away from ... Read More »

A new session of Leadership Cumberland will begin February 21 to help people identify their leadership capabilities and style. Chamber of Commerce President Ethan Hadley said Leadership Cumberland has been a part of the community for nearly 20 years. Hadley said it helps prospective leaders learn how to practically utilize those skills. Hadley said offering only one course per month ... Read More »

Highlands Residential Services Board voted to revise its pet policy during its Thursday meeting. A pet deposit will no longer be charged to potential residents. Executive Director Dow Harris said the pet policy has become an ineffective tool. “I’d say we have less than a dozen a year, applications for a pet,” Harris said. “They’re all emotional support animals because ... Read More »

McMinnville residential trash pick up rates will increase from $15 to $18 monthly starting in February. A one-time fee of $50 will be charged if you need an additional trash can. Commercial rates have increased to $30 per dumpster. Director of Public Works Frank Southard cited rising costs as the reason for the increase. “We bought like a knuckle boon ... Read More »

Jamestown’s Justin Miller will showcase his tribute to Elvis this weekend at the Smoky Mountain Elvis Festival. The Ultimate Elvis Contest will take place over three days in Pigeon Forge starting Friday. Miller said he has been doing a tribute to Elvis sine 1995. He said he feels like those 29 years have been training for this contest. “I started ... Read More »

The White County Commission will vote next to enter negotiations with Waste Management to take over the county landfill. The Solid Waste Committee heard presentations from two companies Tuesday night who would manage the landfill on behalf of the county. County Executive Denny Wayne Robinson said Waste Management received a 103.5 while Republic tallied a 97.65. The proposals were scored ... Read More »