SUMMARY: The Trump administration has cut about 24% of permanent National Park Service staff, mainly affecting maintenance, scientific research, and emergency response roles, while visitor-facing positions remain relatively stable. Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, despite high visitor numbers, reflects these staffing challenges. Additional proposed budget cuts of over $400 million by Congressional Republicans threaten further reductions. Experts warn these cuts strain park operations, forcing remaining staff to cover essential behind-the-scenes work, risking visitor safety and park maintenance. Advocates emphasize the National Park Service’s small federal budget share and its significant economic benefits to local communities, expressing concern for smaller, lesser-known parks.

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The post ‘They’re not allowed to speak to us’ National parks clam up amid Trump staffing cuts appeared first on wpln.org

SUMMARY: The Tennessee State Board of Education is considering eliminating the two-year foreign language high school graduation requirement. Currently, students must complete two years of a foreign language or obtain a waiver. Chairman Bob Eby proposed a study group to explore replacing language credits with other courses like STEM or fine arts, aiming to offer more flexibility. Supporters argue this could better prepare students for post-secondary success, while opponents emphasize foreign language’s role in critical thinking, cultural understanding, and workforce competitiveness. Some universities recommend but don’t require language credits. A petition opposing the change has over 3,400 signatures. No formal decision has been made yet.

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The post Tennessee weighs pros, cons of cutting foreign language graduation requirement appeared first on www.wkrn.com

SUMMARY: A violent shooting occurred early morning outside a convenience store in South Memphis, captured on disturbing surveillance footage. The suspect approached the victim from behind and shot him multiple times at point-blank range in a gas station parking lot at 2:45 a.m. The shooter fired again as the victim tried to get up, then fled the scene. Remarkably, the victim survived and remains in critical condition at Regional One Hospital. Police have yet to identify a suspect or motive. Local residents express concern over rising violence in the neighborhood, emphasizing the need for increased safety and community vigilance.

GRAPHIC VIDEO WARNING – Police are searching for a suspect who shot a man at point-blank range at the beginning of August. The victim was shot multiple times and hobbled away from the scene.

MORE: https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/video-shows-man-shot-multiple-times-at-point-blank-range/article_bd1cc11b-cc45-44df-8ff9-30b148b8ac3d.html

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