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A daily look at the most significant and interesting stories affecting Nashville. Written by Nate Rau and Adam Tamburin.

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COP28 president says there's "no science" in fossil fuel phase-out calls

Energy & Environment

U.S. warship responds to Houthi-claimed attacks on commercial ships in Red Sea

World

Maria Martin, founder of "Latino USA," dies at 72

Politics & Policy

Palestinian student shot in Vermont is now paralyzed, family says

Democrats wrestle with young voters' mixed messages

Tennessee Gov. Lee launches school voucher expansion effort

GOP leaders praised the plan while Democrats rallied opposition.

News

Scoop: Mayor O'Connell hires former CM Dave Rosenberg

Rosenberg is the third former council member hired by O'Connell.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O&#x27;Connell is hiring former Councilmember Dave Rosenberg for a role in the mayor&#x27;s office, multiple sources tell Axios.Details: Rosenberg will serve as director of data and innovation. The details of his responsibilities will be unveiled in the coming days.

Metro Nashville Court House and City Hall 

Scoop: A new racetrack redevelopment plan

The future of the city-owned racetrack has been a political knife fight spanning five mayors.

How a people-loving nerd became Nashville's mayor

Over two decades, Freddie O'Connell went from being a political footnote to a beacon of hope for Nashville progressives

Election

Nashville gas prices fall before Thanksgiving travel

Gas prices average $3.07 in metro Nashville.

You may see some relief at the pump over the Thanksgiving holiday.<ul><li>Gas prices averaged $3.07 in metro Nashville as of Nov. 1.</li></ul>

Nissan retains naming rights for new Titans stadium

The automaker struck a new, 20-year agreement with the football team

Business

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new Titans stadium" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/04/26/metro-council-approves-funding-for-new-titans-stadium" data-vars-content-id="99d28c54-bcf7-4e27-8416-123c62053718" data-vars-headline="Nissan retains naming rights for new Titans stadium" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/04/26/metro-council-approves-funding-for-new-titans-stadium" target="_self">new Titans stadium</a> will be called Nissan Stadium, as part of a new, 20-year agreement between the automaker and the football team.Why it matters: For the Titans, choosing a naming rights partner presented one of the most important business decisions for the new stadium, expected to open in 2027.<ul><li>Nissan, which is one of the largest employers in the region, provides continuity since the current stadium has had four names in its 24 years.</li></ul>

Former Titans star Eddie George a semifinalist for Pro Football Hall of Fame

George was previously a semifinalist in 2022.

Sports

Former Titans running back Eddie George was named Tuesday as a semifinalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame&#x27;s class of 2024.Rushing the news: George became a household name in Nashville during the team&#x27;s early years in town. He is one of the NFL&#x27;s top rushers — he rushed for more than 10,000 yards with the Titans, setting a franchise record.

Former running back Eddie George of the Tennessee Titans on the field at halftime

Checking in on the Predators season

With Thanksgiving behind us, it's the perfect time to give the gridiron a rest and focus on the Nashville Predators.

You&#x27;ve polished off the leftover turkey, bid farewell to your out-of-town family and watched far too much football in the last few days.Zoom in: With Thanksgiving behind us, it&#x27;s the perfect time to give the gridiron a rest and focus on the Nashville Predators.

Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators skates as a star of the game after a 3-2 win against the Winnipeg Jets during an NHL game at Bridgestone Arena on November 26.

Southern Grist beer makes national best-of list

Beer and Brewing unveiled its list of the top 20 beers for 2023.

Food and Drink

A beer made by the quirky brewing masterminds at Southern Grist has been named one of the best in the entire country.Driving the news: Beer and Brewing unveiled its list of the top 20 beers for 2023, and Southern Grist&#x27;s gin barrel-aged Perpetual Composition was among those honored.

Inside East Nashville's new candy shop Lucky Rabbit

Nashville has precious few locally owned candy shops that thrill kids and adults alike.

East Nashville entrepreneurs Allison Holley and Camille Alston have seen their combined sugar intake spike considerably in the last month.Driving the news: For Holley, the cause of the sugar high has been a honeycomb-dipped chocolate candy called Violet Crumble. For Alston, it&#x27;s a peanut and molasses-covered candy bar called Peanut Chews.<ul><li>Violet Crumbles and Peanut Chews are just two of the many unique offerings at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lucky Rabbit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/luckyrabbitcandy/" data-vars-content-id="95957fb2-db9c-44fd-999f-e63c926afceb" data-vars-headline="Inside East Nashville&#x27;s new candy shop Lucky Rabbit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/luckyrabbitcandy/" target="_blank">Lucky Rabbit</a>, East Nashville&#x27;s new 240-square-foot candy shop that Holley and Alston opened on Oct. 21.</li></ul>

Two women standing in front of a wall of candy.

Dolly's new album "Rockstar" is out now

The album features hard-charging electric guitars and cameos from rock idols like Paul McCartney.

Music

Dolly Parton&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rockstar era" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/11/14/dolly-parton-media-blitz-rockstar-album" data-vars-content-id="f1d58c91-4780-47d7-ba9c-60d9f6355454" data-vars-headline="Dolly&#x27;s new album &quot;Rockstar&quot; is out now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/11/14/dolly-parton-media-blitz-rockstar-album" target="_self">rockstar era</a> has finally arrived.<ul><li>Her new album, featuring hard-charging electric guitars and cameos from rock idols like Paul McCartney and Joan Jett, is out Friday.</li></ul>Why it matters: &quot;Rockstar,&quot; inspired by Parton&#x27;s induction into the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame, is the culmination of another blockbuster year that saw her <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="take over grocery store shelves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.foodandwine.com/dolly-parton-duncan-hines-sugar-cookie-mix-7969761" data-vars-content-id="f1d58c91-4780-47d7-ba9c-60d9f6355454" data-vars-headline="Dolly&#x27;s new album &quot;Rockstar&quot; is out now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.foodandwine.com/dolly-parton-duncan-hines-sugar-cookie-mix-7969761" target="_blank">take over grocery store shelves</a> and notch a bestselling book.<ul><li>At 77, she remains firmly embedded in pop culture.</li></ul>

Previewing the CMA Awards

They're Nashville's version of the Oscars, but with a lot more talk about pickup trucks.

Nashville hosts the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Country Music Association Awards" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/07/lainey-wilson-cma-award-nominations" data-vars-content-id="32421c5d-6264-4d0e-802e-95019961f94b" data-vars-headline="Previewing the CMA Awards" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/07/lainey-wilson-cma-award-nominations" target="_self">Country Music Association Awards</a>, billed as &quot;country&#x27;s biggest night&quot; on Wednesday.Why it matters: There are a lot of country-centric award shows, but the CMAs are clearly on another level. They&#x27;re Nashville&#x27;s version of the Oscars, but with a lot more talk about pickup trucks.<ul><li>&quot;It&#x27;s the report card of the last year in country,&quot; says country music expert Beverly Keel, College of Media and Entertainment dean at Middle Tennessee State University.</li></ul>

Brenda Lee's "Rockin'" eyes the top of Billboard chart

Lee's label is marking the 65th anniversary of "Rockin'" with a promotional push.

Move over, Mariah.<ul><li>Nashville&#x27;s own <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Brenda Lee" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2022/12/12/brenda-lee-rocks-christmas-charts-yet-again" data-vars-content-id="49a25914-f0c4-4cb9-8348-0f58d69754a2" data-vars-headline="Brenda Lee&#x27;s &quot;Rockin&#x27;&quot; eyes the top of Billboard chart" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2022/12/12/brenda-lee-rocks-christmas-charts-yet-again" target="_self">Brenda Lee</a> is vying to take her Christmas anthem to the top of the charts this year.</li></ul>Driving the news: Lee&#x27;s 1958 recording of &quot;Rockin&#x27; Around the Christmas Tree&quot; has been a holiday classic for decades, and each season it has reliably climbed into the upper echelon of the Billboard charts. (It&#x27;s currently at No. 8 on the Hot 100 and is expected to vault higher next week.)

Nashville's December concert calender

A guide to some of our favorite shows coming to Nashville.

Things to Do

There&#x27;s plenty to enjoy around town this month.<ul><li>Here&#x27;s a guide to some of our favorite shows coming to Nashville in December.</li></ul>

Nashville's top artists, songs on Spotify Wrapped

Swift was the top artist in Nashville — pretty much everywhere else.

It&#x27;s no surprise that Taylor Swift continues to reign supreme in the city where she started her career.What&#x27;s happening: Spotify released its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="year-end listening stats" data-vars-click-url="https://newsroom.spotify.com/2023-11-29/wrapped-top-songs-worldwide-map/" data-vars-content-id="2ccf6c71-237f-443c-8d35-487cdb82b86f" data-vars-headline="Nashville&#x27;s top artists, songs on Spotify Wrapped" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://newsroom.spotify.com/2023-11-29/wrapped-top-songs-worldwide-map/" target="_blank">year-end listening stats</a>, known as Spotify Wrapped, this week. The streamer calculated the top draws for individuals and cities.

Behind the last-ditch effort to save a trucking company that owes $700M to taxpayers

There's an offer on the table that would repay every dime.

Economy

When trucking company Yellow <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="went bankrupt" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/07/yellow-bankruptcy-trump-loan-criticism-trucking" data-vars-content-id="f5a17690-5b25-4003-aa3e-7857c3a47963" data-vars-headline="Behind the last-ditch effort to save a trucking company that owes $700M to taxpayers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2023/08/07/yellow-bankruptcy-trump-loan-criticism-trucking" target="_self">went bankrupt</a> in August, it seemed that U.S. taxpayers would eat much of a $700 million loan from the pandemic-era CARES Act.Why it matters: There&#x27;s an offer on the table that would repay every dime. But a large number of prominent politicians, from both sides of the aisle, are asking the Treasury Department to punt.

Nashville airport addresses traffic problems with new parking policy

BNA rolled out new efforts to combat its traffic quagmire.

The influx of new flights and amenities at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nashville International Airport" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/27/bna-airport-international-arrival-retail" data-vars-content-id="43315aab-05bb-47a0-82a4-2065014e0b3d" data-vars-headline="Nashville airport addresses traffic problems with new parking policy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/27/bna-airport-international-arrival-retail" target="_self">Nashville International Airport</a> has come with a frustrating flip side.<ul><li>To put it bluntly, the traffic stinks.</li></ul>Driving the news: The combination of construction and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="record-breaking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.newschannel5.com/news/bna-expected-to-break-records-with-high-amount-of-departures-in-october" data-vars-content-id="43315aab-05bb-47a0-82a4-2065014e0b3d" data-vars-headline="Nashville airport addresses traffic problems with new parking policy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.newschannel5.com/news/bna-expected-to-break-records-with-high-amount-of-departures-in-october" target="_blank">record-breaking</a> passenger volume has made things even worse in recent weeks, with media reports showing travelers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="leaving their rides" data-vars-click-url="https://www.newschannel5.com/news/passengers-are-feeling-forced-to-ditch-their-rides-to-get-to-nashville-airport-on-time-wheres-the-relief" data-vars-content-id="43315aab-05bb-47a0-82a4-2065014e0b3d" data-vars-headline="Nashville airport addresses traffic problems with new parking policy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.newschannel5.com/news/passengers-are-feeling-forced-to-ditch-their-rides-to-get-to-nashville-airport-on-time-wheres-the-relief" target="_blank">leaving their rides</a> and walking down the shoulder of Interstate 40 with their roller bags to get to the terminal.

Illustration of a street sign with a person checking their watch.

Dolly Parton's "Rockstar" album is chart-topping success

"Rockstar" hit No. 1 on the all-genre album sales chart.

Dolly Parton&#x27;s foray into rock and roll immediately proved to be a commercial success and one of the best-performing albums of her career on the Billboard sales charts.By the numbers: &quot;Rockstar&quot; debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, which tracks physical album sales, downloads and streams. It&#x27;s Parton&#x27;s third album to reach the top 10 on the chart and the highest-ranked of her career.<ul><li>Parton reached No. 1 on the all-genre Top Album Sales chart, which tracks just physical and digital sales.</li><li>&quot;Rockstar,&quot; released Nov. 17, also topped both the country and rock album sales charts.</li></ul>

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee to announce voucher expansion plan

The Tennessean reports Lee will introduce his proposal Tuesday afternoon.

Gov. Bill Lee is expected to announce his plan to expand school vouchers statewide on Tuesday.<ul><li>Under the plan, which would require legislative approval, 20,000 students from across Tennessee could use public funds to pay private school tuition.</li></ul>Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="School vouchers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2022/05/19/lees-voucher-program-tennessee-supreme-court" data-vars-content-id="6fc7a9d6-cef9-4f10-8959-b4f4652c43ca" data-vars-headline="Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee to announce voucher expansion plan" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2022/05/19/lees-voucher-program-tennessee-supreme-court" target="_self">School vouchers</a> are currently allowed in Davidson, Shelby and Hamilton counties. Lee&#x27;s expansion plan would open the program to rural and suburban districts.

Photo illustration of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee with lines radiating from him.

Walking trips have become less routine in Nashville

There were 170 annual average daily walking trips per 1,000 people in 2022, compared to 300 in 2019.

There&#x27;s been a staggering decline in the number of trips Nashville residents take by putting one foot in front of the other.Why it matters: Walking is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="good for us" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/09/22/walking-brisk-pace-steps-health-risks-dementia" data-vars-content-id="1e73b334-feeb-47f3-a6fd-1ba48d7c2350" data-vars-headline="Walking trips have become less routine in Nashville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/09/22/walking-brisk-pace-steps-health-risks-dementia" target="_self">good for us</a> — especially after a weekend of Thanksgiving feasting. And it&#x27;s better for the environment if we opt to walk rather than drive when possible.

Nashville mayor's transition committee eyes 2024 transit vote

O'Connell said he would use the recommendations "as guiding principles in the months ahead."

Mayor Freddie O&#x27;Connell&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="transition team" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/18/nashville-mayor-elect-freddie-oconnell-prepares" data-vars-content-id="b96b04ce-5b0c-418b-a95f-11e60dc0d1ce" data-vars-headline="Nashville mayor&#x27;s transition committee eyes 2024 transit vote" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/18/nashville-mayor-elect-freddie-oconnell-prepares" target="_self">transition team</a> has urged him to decide soon if he will pursue a referendum to overhaul mass transit in Nashville.Driving the news: Committees focused on transit, growth and government functions released their recommendations for the O&#x27;Connell administration on Tuesday.<ul><li>The transit committee <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="said" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nashville.gov/sites/default/files/2023-11/How-Nashville-Moves-Policy-Brief-231121.pdf?ct=1700573834" data-vars-content-id="b96b04ce-5b0c-418b-a95f-11e60dc0d1ce" data-vars-headline="Nashville mayor&#x27;s transition committee eyes 2024 transit vote" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nashville.gov/sites/default/files/2023-11/How-Nashville-Moves-Policy-Brief-231121.pdf?ct=1700573834" target="_blank">said</a> O&#x27;Connell should make an &quot;early determination&quot; about pushing for a transit referendum, which would allow voters to weigh in on establishing a dedicated local tax stream to support and expand mass transit.</li><li>The committee identified Nov. 5, 2024, as the next high-turnout election that could include a referendum on the ballot.</li></ul>

Photo illustration of Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell with lines radiating from him. 

Fisk University's new president wants to "flip the story"

Agenia Walker Clark says "there is no other place I'd rather be."

Agenia Walker Clark spent decades developing connections to Nashville institutions. One of her early stops after moving to town more than 30 years ago was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fisk University" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/13/fisk-university-new-president-nashville" data-vars-content-id="7395752c-326f-42ba-9f9f-a9e9b6828979" data-vars-headline="Fisk University&#x27;s new president wants to &quot;flip the story&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/13/fisk-university-new-president-nashville" target="_self">Fisk University</a>.<ul><li>She worked at Fisk for a while as a volunteer marketing instructor. She says she was quickly impressed by the caliber of her students and their dedication to Fisk&#x27;s storied history.</li></ul>Walking back onto campus this fall as Fisk&#x27;s newest president, she says, she found the same level of passion.<ul><li>&quot;That kind of took my breath away,&quot; Clark says. &quot;It hit me that there is no other place I&#x27;d rather be.&quot;</li></ul>

Benefit featuring Joy Oladokun raises money for mental health care

The Healing in the Holidays benefit starts at 6:30pm on Dec. 1.

A new local nonprofit seeking to improve the mental health system for marginalized communities is hosting a benefit concert Friday featuring the celebrated singer-songwriter<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Joy Oladokun" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/15/arts/music/joy-oladokun-proof-of-life.html" data-vars-content-id="c7c4b5b8-707b-4875-85cd-3ab622504869" data-vars-headline="Benefit featuring Joy Oladokun raises money for mental health care" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/15/arts/music/joy-oladokun-proof-of-life.html" target="_blank"> Joy Oladokun</a>.<ul><li>Country artist Fancy Hagood will also perform.</li></ul>Why it matters: Funds raised through the benefit will go to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Healing in the Margins" data-vars-click-url="https://www.healinginthemargins.com/" data-vars-content-id="c7c4b5b8-707b-4875-85cd-3ab622504869" data-vars-headline="Benefit featuring Joy Oladokun raises money for mental health care" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.healinginthemargins.com/" target="_blank">Healing in the Margins</a>, which works on two fronts to bolster mental health services for the LGBTQ+ community and for people of color.

Joy Oladokun performs at Ryman Auditorium in 2021 

Arnold's to temporarily reopen

It will reopen for four days next week, including Thanksgiving.

Good news, Nashville foodies: Our long, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Arnold&#x27;s-less nightmare" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/01/06/goodbye-to-arnolds-for-now" data-vars-content-id="2ec5e536-1be4-45df-9c00-d2a6615bf0f0" data-vars-headline="Arnold&#x27;s to temporarily reopen" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/01/06/goodbye-to-arnolds-for-now" target="_self">Arnold&#x27;s-less nightmare</a> is coming to an end. At least temporarily.Driving the news: Arnold&#x27;s Country Kitchen will reopen at its old location on 8th Avenue South for four days next week including on Thanksgiving.<ul><li>The beloved meat-and-three plunged the city into mourning when it closed its doors earlier this year, albeit with the caveat that it hoped to reopen soon.</li></ul>

Fox Nation Patriot Awards come to Nashville

Several Fox New personalities, including Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham, will broadcast their shows from the Opry House

Fox Nation, the streaming platform for Fox News, will host the fifth annual Patriot Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House on Thursday.Why it matters: The Patriot Awards serve as a sort of Comic-Con for fans of Fox News.<ul><li>Several Fox News personalities, including Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham, will broadcast their shows from the Opry House this week. They&#x27;ll also serve as presenters during the awards ceremony.</li></ul>

American Legion Post 82 emerges as a top Nashville honky-tonk

The club's popularity is an important music industry win.

The American Legion Post 82 isn&#x27;t situated on iconic lower Broadway and it isn&#x27;t a regular stop on any party bus tour, but it&#x27;s become one of Music City&#x27;s best honky-tonks.Driving the news: Located off Gallatin Pike in the Inglewood neighborhood, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Post 82" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/post82nashville/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="6b47e973-2021-4ce9-b7d4-e452049fe449" data-vars-headline="American Legion Post 82 emerges as a top Nashville honky-tonk" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/post82nashville/?hl=en" target="_blank">Post 82</a> holds weekly honky-tonk nights each Tuesday.<ul><li>Word is out about the authentic experience. Post 82 claimed third place in the most recent Nashville Scene readers&#x27; poll for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="best honky-tonk" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nashvillescene.com/bon/2023/music/readers-poll/robert-s-western-world/article_d8146df6-6392-11ee-8a3b-6f266c71e355.html" data-vars-content-id="6b47e973-2021-4ce9-b7d4-e452049fe449" data-vars-headline="American Legion Post 82 emerges as a top Nashville honky-tonk" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nashvillescene.com/bon/2023/music/readers-poll/robert-s-western-world/article_d8146df6-6392-11ee-8a3b-6f266c71e355.html" target="_blank">best honky-tonk</a>.</li><li>At this week&#x27;s gathering, about 600 people showed up for a night of line dancing, no-frills drinks and community, soundtracked by the country stylings of the Cowpokes.</li></ul>

A stage with an American flag made out of Christmas lights.

November concerts coming to Nashville

Plus Liz Phair, Brittany Howard and more.

Here&#x27;s a rundown of some of the live shows coming to Nashville this month.👋 Nov. 3: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Akon" data-vars-click-url="https://www.marathonmusicworks.com/event-details/13607868/akon-super-fan-tour/" data-vars-content-id="3f53f8d6-a450-458c-9691-48cabdc98b31" data-vars-headline="November concerts coming to Nashville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.marathonmusicworks.com/event-details/13607868/akon-super-fan-tour/" target="_blank">Akon</a>, Marathon Music Works🎹 Nov. 5: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="David Foster and Katherine McPhee" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nashvillesymphony.org/tickets/concert/2023-2024-season/david-foster-and-katharine-mcphee/" data-vars-content-id="3f53f8d6-a450-458c-9691-48cabdc98b31" data-vars-headline="November concerts coming to Nashville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nashvillesymphony.org/tickets/concert/2023-2024-season/david-foster-and-katharine-mcphee/" target="_blank">David Foster and Katherine McPhee</a>, Schermerhorn Symphony Center🪁 Nov. 6: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Paper Kites" data-vars-click-url="https://www.brooklynbowl.com/nashville/events/detail/the-paper-kites-the-roadhouse-house-band-g5viz9nk6k6js" data-vars-content-id="3f53f8d6-a450-458c-9691-48cabdc98b31" data-vars-headline="November concerts coming to Nashville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.brooklynbowl.com/nashville/events/detail/the-paper-kites-the-roadhouse-house-band-g5viz9nk6k6js" target="_blank">The Paper Kites</a>, Brooklyn Bowl

Dolly Parton's fashion celebrated in new Nashville exhibit

The exhibit at Lipscomb University features 25 outfits.

Everything about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dolly Parton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/01/19/dolly-parton-77-birthday-rock-album-duncan-hines" data-vars-content-id="a2394266-d2ac-4554-b028-3af9008b444e" data-vars-headline="Dolly Parton&#x27;s fashion celebrated in new Nashville exhibit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/01/19/dolly-parton-77-birthday-rock-album-duncan-hines" target="_self">Dolly Parton</a> sparkles. And that&#x27;s intentional.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="A new exhibit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/08/30/new-exhibit-on-dolly-parton-fashion" data-vars-content-id="a2394266-d2ac-4554-b028-3af9008b444e" data-vars-headline="Dolly Parton&#x27;s fashion celebrated in new Nashville exhibit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/08/30/new-exhibit-on-dolly-parton-fashion" target="_self">A new exhibit</a> opening Tuesday at Lipscomb University&#x27;s Beaman Library pays tribute to her dazzling fashions and the people who put them together, in conjunction with her new book &quot;Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones.&quot;

Sen. Blackburn pushes further crackdown on ticket bots

Government scrutiny on the live music industry and online ticketing specifically is at an all-time high.

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn resumed her decade-long crusade against online ticket scalping, filing legislation earlier this month to further crack down on the use of illegal &quot;bot&quot; software.Why it matters: Government scrutiny on the live music industry and online ticketing specifically is at an all-time high.<ul><li>Thanks in large part to Taylor Swift fans who missed out on tickets to her record-setting tour, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Congress held hearings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/01/25/senators-ticketmaster-taylor-swift-tour" data-vars-content-id="aa5ed09e-8c1d-4d99-8741-38f3b734d351" data-vars-headline="Sen. Blackburn pushes further crackdown on ticket bots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/01/25/senators-ticketmaster-taylor-swift-tour" target="_self">Congress held hearings</a> and introduced a slate of legislation in the last year.</li><li>The Department of Justice is also reportedly pursuing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a possible antitrust investigation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/live-nation-antitrust-investigation-investor-class-action-1235559328/" data-vars-content-id="aa5ed09e-8c1d-4d99-8741-38f3b734d351" data-vars-headline="Sen. Blackburn pushes further crackdown on ticket bots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/live-nation-antitrust-investigation-investor-class-action-1235559328/" target="_blank">a possible antitrust investigation</a> of the industry&#x27;s largest company, Live Nation.</li></ul>

Illustration of a hand in a boxing glove versus a robot hand holding a roll of tickets.

Why Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell packs his public schedule

O'Connell's approach shows his preference for being in the community.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nashville Mayor Freddie O&#x27;Connell" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/15/how-a-people-loving-nerd-became-nashvilles-mayor" data-vars-content-id="3c47970b-1dab-4384-ad8a-e1e96d4ea626" data-vars-headline="Why Nashville Mayor Freddie O&#x27;Connell packs his public schedule" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/09/15/how-a-people-loving-nerd-became-nashvilles-mayor" target="_self">Nashville Mayor Freddie O&#x27;Connell</a> has maintained a very busy public schedule since taking office, giving his early days on the job the appearance of continuing his rigorous approach to campaigning.State of play: Take Thursday, Oct. 26, as an example. O&#x27;Connell began his day at the hip coworking coffee shop and social space SoHo House for a meeting about &quot;synergizing wellness and prosperity.&quot;

Metro wins legal challenge over airport law

The unanimous 3-0 ruling is another emphatic victory in Metro's battle with the state

A panel of judges ruled Tuesday the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new law" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/04/17/tennessee-republicans-close-to-airport-board-overhaul" data-vars-content-id="1089bd25-8c0c-4426-8442-ad3ca526d88d" data-vars-headline="Metro wins legal challenge over airport law" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/04/17/tennessee-republicans-close-to-airport-board-overhaul" target="_self">new law</a> granting state leaders control of the Airport Authority&#x27;s board of directors violates the state constitution.Why it matters: The unanimous 3-0 ruling is another emphatic victory in Metro&#x27;s battle with the state over a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="wave of new laws" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/04/24/tennessee-lawmakers-vs-nashville" data-vars-content-id="1089bd25-8c0c-4426-8442-ad3ca526d88d" data-vars-headline="Metro wins legal challenge over airport law" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2023/04/24/tennessee-lawmakers-vs-nashville" target="_self">wave of new laws</a> targeting Nashville.<ul><li>The ruling restores local control over the Nashville International Airport, a major economic engine for the region that has enjoyed massive growth in recent years.</li></ul>

Illustration of Nashville City Hall with lines radiating from it.

Food insecurity is rising in Tennessee

Recent polling suggests the problem is even more acute for families with young children.

Food insecurity is on the upswing in Tennessee and slightly above the national average, according to the latest federal data.Why it matters: Food insecurity levels have ticked up as new data starts to reflect historic inflation rates and the disappearance of pandemic-era benefits, which affected vulnerable Americans last year.

Mayor O'Connell hires Rep. Jernigan for legislative role

Mayor Freddie O'Connell announced Thursday the hiring of veteran state Rep. Darren Jernigan as his new director of legislative affairs.

Mayor Freddie O&#x27;Connell announced Thursday the hiring of veteran state Rep. Darren Jernigan as his new director of legislative affairs.Why it matters: The Old Hickory Democrat will oversee Metro&#x27;s interests at the state and work to repair the city&#x27;s fractured relationship with Republican leaders.<ul><li>A political moderate, Jernigan is well-regarded by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.</li><li>Jernigan has served in the legislature since 2012. He previously served six years on the council representing the Donelson, Hermitage and Old Hickory areas.</li></ul>

Tennessee poll: Bama fans most obnoxious

Florida Gators and Tennessee Volunteers fans tied for second in the poll at 18% apiece.

The Beacon Center, a nonprofit Nashville think tank, polled Tennessee residents about pressing issues facing the state.Let&#x27;s start with the most vital poll result: Alabama has the most obnoxious fan base in the SEC, according to 30% of Tennessee residents surveyed.<ul><li>Florida Gators and Tennessee Volunteers fans tied for second in the poll at 18% apiece.</li></ul>

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