SUMMARY: The Land Between the Lakes National Recreational Area, located along the Kentucky-Tennessee border, is facing challenges from invasive feral swine that threaten visitor safety, native wildlife, and local farmland. These hogs dig up essential plants and cause considerable agricultural damage. Beginning January 21, a collaborative effort by several government agencies, including the USDA and wildlife departments, will initiate a campaign to reduce the feral hog population using aerial operations and bait trapping. Visitors should expect increased official presence in the area this winter to address the issue.

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SUMMARY: Wilson County Schools has introduced rotating metal detectors, beginning with Mount Juliet High School, but parent Jordan Farmer raises concerns about the effectiveness of announcing their presence in advance. Students were informed ahead of time, prompting her to question the deterrent value since those with malicious intent could avoid detection. Additionally, she noted delays caused by everyday school supplies like binders and water bottles triggering the detectors, which has extended entry times. School spokesperson Bart Barker acknowledged the initial difficulties in adjusting the machines’ sensitivity but hopes the detectors will eventually serve as a deterrent and enhance security. Farmer suggests more targeted checks might be more effective.

Mt. Juliet is testing new metal detectors in its schools, but one parent shared some concerns with News 2.

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SUMMARY: The Federal Highway Administration has approved $352.6 million in Emergency Relief funds for North Carolina and Tennessee for disaster recovery. This is in addition to $167 million for Hurricane Helene recovery. Funds will aid repairs for storm damage, including landslides, washouts, and bridge collapses, with significant portions going to Interstate 40 in both states. North Carolina’s Department of Transportation will receive $250 million, and Tennessee will get $70 million. The National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service will receive funds for repairs along the Blue Ridge Parkway and other areas. Helene caused severe damage, with North Carolina suffering $53 billion in losses.

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