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On 11/30/2023 at 06:25 AM a roadway hazard that could possibly create traffic congestion has been reported in the area of N JOHN B DENNIS HWY // LINCOLN ST. Motorists should consider an alternate route to avoid potential delays. Anyone already in the area is asked to be patient, use caution, and obey all traffic instructions. CAD_Call 231130-0032
In a heartfelt display of appreciation, the Kingsport community has launched several initiatives to show unwavering support for their local police force, ranging from providing snacks to creating supportive signage to establishing a unique “Prayer Warriors” program.
The movement began modestly, with residents recognizing that Kingsport police officers often miss meals due to their demanding schedules. To address this, a rotating roster of community members started supplying packaged snacks to the officers.
“These snacks are sometimes the only thing we manage to eat during our shifts,” shared Officer Mike Slater. “It’s more than just food. It’s a reminder that our community has our back.”
Building on this gesture, the community introduced yard signs and billboards bearing messages like “Our Heroes Kingsport Police” and “We Back the Blue.” These signs quickly became a common sight in Kingsport, symbolizing the town’s solidarity with its law enforcement.
The initiative’s impact soon echoed beyond Kingsport, inspiring neighboring cities like Johnson City, Bristol, Knoxville, Nashville, and even reaching as far as Texas and Oklahoma. Sign companies partnered with the movement, displaying large billboards with “A Big Thank You to Kingsport Police” across the city.
Perhaps the most personal touch in this wave of support is the Prayer Warriors program. Officers who choose to participate are paired with community members who commit to praying for their safety and well-being. These “warriors” also send encouraging notes and cards to the officers.
“Knowing someone is specifically praying for me and my colleagues is incredibly uplifting,” remarked Sergeant David Johnson.
This outpouring of support comes at a time when police forces nationwide often face challenging public perceptions. Kingsport’s initiatives serve as a reminder of the community’s gratitude and respect for those who serve and protect them.
“It’s about showing our officers that they are valued and respected,” said Terri Farthing, one of the movement’s organizers. “Our police are not just enforcers of the law. They are an integral part of our community.”
The Kingsport Police Department expressed its gratitude for these gestures, noting the positive impact on officer morale.
“It’s a tough job, and gestures like these remind us why we do what we do,” Lt. Justin McConnell stated.
As Kingsport continues to show its support, the community’s actions resonate as a powerful example of respect and appreciation for law enforcement, a model that other cities are now beginning to follow.
For more information, contact Mary Cowden at 423-246-9600 or marylcowden@yahoo.com.
Kingsport’s annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting event is this Saturday (December 2) in downtown Kingsport. The parade begins at 6 p.m. with the tree lighting taking place at 7:45 p.m.
Beginning at 2:30 p.m., expect road closures on Clinchfield Street (from West Center Street to Market Street), on West Center Street (from Clinchfield Street to Sullivan Street), and on East Center Street (from Sullivan Street to Clinchfield Street) and other side streets within this area.
All road closures and detours will be in place by 5:30 p.m. and will remain closed through the duration of the events Saturday evening. Center Street will be reopened at the conclusion of the parade.
Due to construction, Main Street is closed from Sullivan to Cherokee, so please use Market Street as a detour.
In addition to the parade route closures, the 400 block of Broad Street and New Street (from Shelby to Commerce) will be closed Saturday at 10 a.m. for afternoon activities in the area. These closures will be lifted at the conclusion of the events.
For more information about the parade, tree lighting, and other holiday events, visit www.christmasinkingsport.com.
The Kingsport Area Transit Service needs your help in finding Ryder the Christmas Elf. The elusive elf could be hiding on a bus, at a shelter or transit stop or he just might be hiding somewhere at the downtown transit station.
There’s no telling where Ryder might be. But if you do manage to find him, you’ll win a free January bus pass!
From December 1 until December 24, KATS is offering a special “Find Ryder the Christmas Elf” promotion. If you find Ryder, show him to your driver or bring him to the downtown transit station (900 E. Main Street) to receive a free January bus pass.
Be sure to check out the KATS’ website (www.kingsporttransit.org) or the Kingsport Alerts Facebook page each day to receive a clue to where Ryder might be hiding. Limit one free bus pass per customer.
A previously reported roadway closure in the area of HOLLIS ST // W STONE DR has been cleared. CAD_Call 231129-0052
A previously reported crash with property damage in the area of 601 CHIPPENDALE RD has been cleared. CAD_Call 231130-0001
On 11/30/2023 at 12:20 AM a crash with property damage that could possibly create traffic congestion has been reported in the area of 601 CHIPPENDALE RD. Motorists should consider an alternate route to avoid potential delays. Anyone already in the area is asked to be patient, use caution, and obey all traffic instructions. CAD_Call 231130-0001
A previously reported crash with property damage in the area of 3100 E STONE DR has been cleared. CAD_Call 231129-0216
On 11/29/2023 at 08:45 PM a crash with property damage that could possibly create traffic congestion has been reported in the area of 3100 E STONE DR. Motorists should consider an alternate route to avoid potential delays. Anyone already in the area is asked to be patient, use caution, and obey all traffic instructions. CAD_Call 231129-0216