SUMMARY: Dollar General reported a quarterly sales record of $10.44 billion, surpassing Wall Street expectations, and raised its annual profit and sales outlook amid economic uncertainty. Despite a 0.2% U.S. GDP decline and slowed consumer spending, Dollar General’s same-store sales rose 2.4%, with average transaction values up 2.7%, though customer traffic dipped slightly. The retailer earned $391.9 million, beating profit estimates. Unlike many traditional retailers lowering forecasts due to tariffs and anxious shoppers, Dollar General benefits as budget-conscious consumers turn to bargain stores. However, the company remains cautious about tariff impacts, with lower-income shoppers facing ongoing financial pressure.

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SUMMARY: Construction on Maryville’s long-planned Carpenter’s Grade Road Project is underway, aiming to improve quality of life in Blunt County. The $9 million, federally funded multi-phase project began in March, focusing on upgrading about one mile of road, improving drainage with iron pipes, and adding traffic lights at a busy 4-way (technically 5-way) intersection used by thousands daily. As Maryville becomes more urban and densely populated, officials want to modernize narrow roadways to accommodate cars, trucks, pedestrians, joggers, and bicycles. Some neighbors have concerns about road closures and congestion but see the project as a necessary response to growth. Completion is expected by late 2026.

Some neighbors have mixed feelings about the congestion the construction could bring.

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SUMMARY: In June 2025, the Tennessee Court of Appeals ruled that the state can proceed with a plan to reduce Nashville’s Metro Council membership by half. The 2-1 decision overturned a 2024 lower court ruling which had found the law violated the state’s “home rule” amendment protecting local government autonomy. The appeals court argued the law applies statewide to limit council sizes, and Nashville merely exceeds the limit. Tennessee House majority leader William Lamberth praised the decision as reining in government growth, while Nashville Vice Mayor Angie Henderson expressed disappointment, citing it disregards voter intent. An appeal remains possible.

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