News from the South - Tennessee News Feed
The Buzz: Taylor Swift, Kelsea Ballerini and Ed the Zebra
SUMMARY: Ed, a zebra that escaped in Middle Tennessee for six days, was safely found after authorities closed Interstate 24 during the search. His escape inspired many online jokes and fake sightings, including one at a local newsroom. In Knoxville, two hand-crafted bronze salamander statues have been placed around town as part of a local art hunt. Meanwhile, CMA Fest in Nashville featured performances by Knoxville natives Kelsea Ballerini and Emily Ann Roberts. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were also spotted at a wedding in Knoxville, delighting fans who shared photos and videos of the event.

Here are your latest entertainment updates of the week on the Buzz!
News from the South - Tennessee News Feed
Hooters restaurants close in 14 states, including TN, KY: Here's where
SUMMARY: Two months after filing for bankruptcy protection, Hooters has closed over two dozen locations across multiple states, including Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, Florida, and Georgia. Initially stating it would keep restaurants open during bankruptcy, the company reversed course, citing a need to optimize its business and focus on a pure franchise model. Closures took effect June 4, 2025, impacting company-owned locations while promising support for affected employees. Founded in 1983, Hooters has faced financial struggles, including a $300 million bond sale in 2021 and prior closures last summer. It now operates slightly more than 200 restaurants in 34 states.
The post Hooters restaurants close in 14 states, including TN, KY: Here's where appeared first on www.wkrn.com
News from the South - Tennessee News Feed
Looking back at CMA Fest Day 2
SUMMARY: Rain delayed Day 2 of CMA Fest at Nissan Stadium by over an hour, causing temporary evacuations during rehearsals. Despite the weather, fans stayed enthusiastic as the show started around 9 p.m. Highlights included Jelly Roll joining another artist to perform their popular single “Amen.” The night wrapped up with 13-time CMA winner Keith Urban playing hits like “Wasted Time” and “Somewhere in My Car.” Radio hosts Big D and Bubba described the weekend as “fun, pandemonium, and hot,” emphasizing country music’s widespread impact. More star performances, including Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts, were anticipated for the following day.

A look back at day two of CMA Fest.
News from the South - Tennessee News Feed
How the head of an embattled Tennessee youth detention center held on to power for decades
SUMMARY: Richard Bean’s leadership of the Richard L. Bean Juvenile Service Center was marked by longstanding issues ignored by a board composed largely of his friends and political allies. Board members included lawyers and political figures closely tied to Bean, some unaware of their appointments. The detention center faced repeated allegations of poor conditions, abuse, and illegal punishment methods over decades. Staff whistleblower Stephani Clowers reported medical neglect and feared for detainees’ safety, yet the board failed to intervene. Following public outcry and Clowers’ firing, Bean resigned in 2025. County leaders now debate dismantling the board and transferring control to the sheriff, though concerns about accountability and juvenile justice remain.
The post How the head of an embattled Tennessee youth detention center held on to power for decades appeared first on wpln.org
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