I remember “perky” Katie Couric when she hosted the Today show. She seemed pleasant enough. Well, based on her most recent appearance on Bill Maher’s podcast, she has lifted the veil on any remaining pretense of perkiness.

Dec 31, 2024 · Editor’s note: As we welcome 2025, The Newport Plain Talk staff has chosen its Top 10 news stories from 2024. Today we complete our countdown with the top five.

6 days ago · NASHVILLE — Legislators have voted on Gov. Bill Lee’s Education Freedom Act of 2025 passing the governor’s private-school voucher program on Thursday afternoon. The bill passed 54-44 in the House and 20-13 in the Senate. The House vote came after four hours of debate, including dozens of ...

Cocke County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies and officers from the Newport Police Department (NPD) were kept busy Friday, Jan. 24 with a pair…

Dec 30, 2024 · In response to unverified reports and social media speculation, Newport Police Chief Scott Lamb posted a message Monday evening on Facebook regarding a death investigation.

Nov 30, 2024 · NEWPORT — Incredible Tiny Homes (ITH) once again became a topic at the Cocke County Regional Planning Commission meeting. Commissioners passed a motion to ask the Cocke County Legislative Body (CLB) to take legal action against ITH and Randy Jones and issue a stop work order unless a site plan is submitted in time for the January 2025 meeting.

6 days ago · PROBATION VIOLATION: On Jan. 25 a deputy observed a vehicle failing to maintain its lane and the driver hitting the brakes erratically. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and made contact with Brandy Epling, 45, and ran her name through the jail. The jail confirmed a hard copy warrant for probation violation out of Cocke County.

Nov 20, 2024 · NEWPORT — An ice skating rink is coming to Newport thanks to the Newport-Cocke County Chamber of Commerce and some local businesses.

Dec 28, 2024 · Regenx USA Inc. is relocating to Newport. A press conference making the announcement was held on Friday. From left are State Senator Steve Southerland, Alderman Mike Hansel, Partnership Board Chair George Barton, Newport Mayor Trey Dykes, Bob Fair and Rick Purdy of Regenx, Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis, Industrial Development Board Chair Clint Hammonds and Crystal Bryant of the Tennessee ...

Dec 19, 2024 · Cocke County residents who had damage or losses from Tropical Storm Helene are encouraged to visit FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Center, located in the old Walmart building behind Krystal’s on West Broadway in Newport, to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.