Local news

A woman recently arrested for allegedly engaging in sexual contact with a teenager is identified as a former contestant on The Voice. Officials in Sumner County said 35-year-old Kata Hay allegedly made inappropriate comments about the 16-year-old in front of his parents, then kissed him and forced him to touch her against his will.  Hay was staying with the teen’s family when the incident occured. Authorities said the teen’s mother recorded a conversation with Hay in which she admitted to the accusations.

Everybody’s leaving town:  Nashville International Airport is reporting a record year for travel.  Officials say 18-point-four-million people came through the hub over their last fiscal year.  The number represents an increase of seven percent over the previous record, set in 2019.  This weekend is also expected to be busy, with flight delays and cancellations possible due to short staffs nationally and travelers looking to celebrate the July fourth holiday.

A number of new laws go into effect across Tennessee today.  House Bill 7004 requires school districts to offer bridge camps, mini camps or summer school to make up for learning loss during the pandemic.  The CROWN Act prohibits employers from discriminating against people for their hairstyle.  And every school employee is now required to undergo human trafficking training.

July 5th is the deadline to register to vote in the August 4th federal primary election and the state and county general election.  Registration can be done online or by mail.  Early voting for the election begins on July 15th.

The Oak Ridge Boys will headline at the City of Springfield’s Freedom Fest, Sunday at the Robertson County Fairgrounds.  Gates will open at 3 p.m. for the free event, featuring carnival rides, inflatables for the kids, plus around 20 vendors, as well as food options.  L ive music, sponsored by Grace Baptist Church, will kick off soon after gates open — with opening acts the High Road, a Grammy award nominated gospel group, and local artists Stephen Hogan, the Wyatt Wood Band, Justin Tucker and the Devon Williams Band.