SUMMARY: Dollywood announced a new Great Smoky Mountain-themed attraction set to open in 2026, described as the park’s largest and most ambitious project. During the 2025 season preview, Dolly Parton and Dollywood president Eugene Naughton revealed guests will be able to “take flight.” Visitors have spotted posters seeking “adventurers” linked to “Hidden Hollow Aviation,” hinting at the new attraction’s theme. Construction near Big Bear Mountain features banners for Hidden Hollow Aviation, which shares a name with a Wildwood Grove play area. The attraction’s story involves a family’s quest and “The Legend of the Secret Lake.” More details will be shared on Dollywood’s social media soon.

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SUMMARY: Tennessee schools face losing nearly $2.5 billion—about 20% of funding—if President Trump’s plan to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education proceeds. Some districts, like McNairy County, have already cut programs such as after-school activities, impacting students and parents alike. Tennessee ranks 16th nationally in per-pupil federal funding. A Joint Federal Education Deregulation Cooperation Task Force recently convened to evaluate the potential effects. Democrats doubt the state can replace federal funds, while Republicans assure no child will be left behind. Educators warn cuts could worsen teacher shortages, increase class sizes, and reduce enrichment programs. The task force must propose solutions by year-end.

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SUMMARY: Tennessee is embroiled in a redistricting battle similar to Texas, where Democrats fled the legislature protesting new Republican-favored congressional maps. In 2022, Tennessee faced lawsuits accusing the Republican supermajority of partisan gerrymandering by splitting counties and misnumbering Senate districts, violating the state constitution. A federal judge dismissed the House map suit, but a three-judge panel ordered the Senate map redrawn; this was paused by the Tennessee Supreme Court, which heard arguments in October 2024 with no ruling yet. Sen. Jeff Yarbro criticized partisan redistricting for undermining fair representation and harming voters, linking Tennessee’s conflict to national struggles over political power.

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