Moffitt, who recently took over the Senate’s energy portfolio after Sen. Paul Newton’s resignation, said he has been immersing himself in the subject — including a trip this month to coal mines in West Virginia. “What a fascinating field that is, because that’s going to be the battleground for the next 25 years politically, is over energy,” Moffitt said.

Division 13 construction engineer Nathan Moneyham described the progress from the site of the old highway alignment, now serving as a staging ground for permanent reconstruction. Behind him stretched the two-lane temporary paved road completed this spring.

Wildlife experts say coyotes are generally wary of people, but that natural caution can fade if they become too comfortable around homes. When coyotes linger near food sources, problems are more likely to arise, making awareness and prevention especially important.

The initiative brought together law enforcement from both states, creating a strong presence aimed at reducing impaired driving. The joint operation took place on August 25, 2025, and produced the following results in Rutherford County:

Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg said the initiative reflects the detention center’s goal of addressing not only the security needs of detainees but also their personal growth. “Our goal is not just to house detainees but to help transform lives,” he said.