Local News

Tennesseans across the Volunteer State remembered Memorial Day with tributes and parades.  In Middle Tennessee, residents in Smyrna gathered in Lee Victory Recreation Park to remember fallen veterans of past wars.  At Nashville’s National Cemetery, dozens gathered to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  And a memorial service was held at Knoxville’s National Cemetery to remember fallen soldiers.  The group known as Wreaths Across America placed American flags on headstones.

Governor Bill Lee has signed into law a bill to reform campaign finances and to create more reporting requirements for political action committees and candidates.  Governor Lee signed the bill Friday.  Among other things, the bill requires candidates to report any expenditures of more than 100-dollars.  All reports will be publicly available on the state’s campaign website.  Supporters say the bill will help shed light on so-called dark money contributions that have escaped pubic scrutiny for years.  

Actor Gary Sinise — whose nonprofit helps and supports members of the U.S. armed forces — is moving his foundation as well as his family to the Volunteer State.  Sinise — who gained fame as Lieutenant Dan in the film, Forrest Gump — says he’s moving to Tennessee because the state is more centrally located to help its charitable efforts.  His foundation also helps build homes for veterans.  In a news release, Sinise’s foundation says Tennessee’s lack of income tax and proximity to the music industry were also factors in the decision.

Pleasant Green Pool in Goodlettsville is closed for a second consecutive season.  Parks Director Sarah Jennings says a lack of lifeguards continues to plague the department.  Job fairs and offers to cover certification costs have not generated much interest in the jobs, according to Jennings.