KINGSPORT, Tenn. — The CSX Santa Train will make its 84th run through Appalachia on Saturday, Nov. 21, continuing a holiday tradition that dates to 1943. The train will follow its traditional route through Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, traveling 110 miles from Shelbiana to Kingsport, Tenn. According to CSX and the North Pole Transportation Authority, the train will deliver more than 15,000 toys, gifts and winter accessories to thousands of families along the route. “As we look ahead to a new year, we’re reminded that the CSX Santa Train is about so much more than a journey along the tracks,” […]

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FRANKFORT, Ky. — Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Edmonson, presented a proposal Tuesday aimed at addressing the financial challenges facing Kentucky’s county jails. Meredith brought the legislation, which he sponsored as House Bill 557 during the 2026 regular session, before the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary. The bill had more than 50 co-sponsors but did not receive a committee hearing during the budget session. Meredith said the interim provides lawmakers an opportunity to discuss the challenges facing county jails, hear from local officials and consider potential changes before the 2027 regular session. “We are at a crisis point amongst the county governments […]

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LOGAN, W.Va. — Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College has received a $50,000 award from West Virginia GEAR UP to expand college and career readiness opportunities for students in four counties. The funding will support students in Boone, Lincoln, Logan and Mingo counties who attend nine participating high schools. West Virginia GEAR UP, administered by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, provides resources and experiences designed to help students prepare for education and training after high school. Services can include college visits, career exploration, ACT and SAT preparation, tutoring, mentoring, financial aid and college-planning workshops, summer academies and […]

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