AGP Executive Report

Tennessee Sports: Josh Heupel’s sixth season at Tennessee is drawing debate among fans who say he’s winning but not recruiting at the elite level needed to win it all. Baseball Coaching: Tennessee hired ECU pitching coach Austin Knight, adding a staff leader credited with developing pitchers and helping the Pirates reach multiple NCAA tournaments. Local Pride & Community: Memphis marked the 51st annual Pride Festival with a large turnout and a parade down Beale Street, highlighting decades of LGBTQ advocacy in the Mid-South. Nashville Safety: A 15-year-old on an electric scooter was injured after being hit by a truck in Mt. Juliet; police cited failure to yield. Mid-South Weather: Storm chances rise Sunday into Monday with scattered, hit-or-miss thunderstorms, then hotter conditions build through the week. Nuclear & Foreign Policy: White House envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visited Oak Ridge to consult nuclear experts as Iran talks enter a critical phase. Business & Health: HCA is expanding urgent care in South Carolina by acquiring MedCare clinics, with some locations rebranded to HCA CareNow. Nursing Home Watch: CMS reports Midtown Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Memphis held a 3-star overall rating in Q1 2026, with fines totaling $188,379.

Memphis Pride: The Memphis Pride Parade rolled along Beale Street, marking 51 years of Pride in the city. I-40 Crash Response: Three people were taken to the hospital after an I-40 crash involving an overturned tractor-trailer near Sycamore View; injuries were reported as noncritical. More I-40 Injuries: Police also reported two women injured in another Memphis-area crash, and three people hurt after a vehicle struck a pole on I-40 near Austin Peay Highway. Public Safety Debate: Memphis’ “Nuclear Family Month” resolution is sparking pushback during Pride Month, with supporters citing traditional values and critics saying the timing targets LGBTQ residents. Nashville Traffic: I-24 westbound fully reopened after a crash involving two semis near the Shelby Avenue overpass. Local Sports: Tennessee baseball hired Austin Knight as its new pitching coach, and Oak Ridge TE Malik Howard committed to the Vols. CMA Fest: CMA Fest continues downtown Nashville with major acts across multiple stages. Weather: Memphis is mostly dry and warm today, with shower chances increasing Sunday.

Iran Talks Prep in Tennessee: Trump envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner consulted nuclear experts at Oak Ridge National Laboratory as negotiations with Iran enter a “serious phase,” with a technical team of about 100 lined up if a preliminary deal is reached. Nashville Zoo vs. Data Center: The zoo is fighting a proposed near-neighbor data center, warning light and noise could disrupt thousands of animals, including clouded leopards, and pushing a petition with massive public support. Memphis Pride Weekend: The 33rd Juneteenth Festival kicked off in Memphis, and Pride events are set for Saturday on Beale Street, with a parade, festival, and family activities. Public Safety & Traffic: TDOT reported an overturned vehicle blocking lanes on I-40E near Sycamore View; Memphis police also charged suspects after a North Memphis shooting that involved a 12-year-old. Local Life: Memphis launched “Play Your Park” summer events in Raleigh, and the Memphis Zoo helped release nearly 500 dusky gopher frogs in Mississippi to support a comeback.

Violent Crime: A Memphis woman, Courtnie Williams, was sentenced in Mississippi to 40 years for attempted murder and 20 years of post-release supervision for kidnapping after she shot a victim and forced her into a car at gunpoint. Local Law Enforcement: A West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force raid hit two Memphis stores and a Cordova home, seizing khat, guns, slot machines, and more than $98,000 in cash; arrests are expected soon. Mid-South Safety: A Memphis chase that spilled into Southaven, Mississippi ended with six teens arrested, including a 14-year-old boy and multiple 15- and 17-year-olds, with charges tied to violent felonies. Public Health & Food Prices: Tennessee is issuing temporary animal import rules after a New World screwworm was confirmed in Texas, raising concerns for livestock and potentially beef costs. Community Events: Family Fun Friday returns to Memphis parks with free food, games, and activities for all ages on select Fridays. Weather: Warm, partly cloudy conditions continue, with rain and storms more likely Sunday and Monday.

CMA Fest in Nashville: Country music filled Nissan Stadium and the riverfront as Ty Myers made his CMA Fest debut and night-one headliners included Jason Aldean, with fans packing downtown for the four-day run. State politics: U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles deleted a homophobic post from his X account and blamed a staffer, saying the employee was reprimanded. Healthcare policy fight: CVS sued Tennessee over the newly enacted Fair Rx Act, which bans pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies. Public safety: The U.S. DOJ launched a nationwide crime initiative modeled in part on Memphis’ Safe Task Force approach, aiming to fund and modernize local efforts in other large cities. Water outlook: TVA says the Tennessee Valley remains in severe drought despite recent heavy rain, with runoff still far below normal. Local business/community: A West Nashville pizza shop, Melissa’s Sir Pizza, is being forced to relocate after a site sale, and the owners are asking for help covering relocation costs.

Local Safety: Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating a deadly early-morning crash on “The Dragon” in Blount County, reported around 1 a.m. Thursday. Nashville Growth & Environment: Nashville Zoo launched a petition against a proposed DC BLOX AI data center next to the zoo, saying there are no public environmental studies and warning about impacts on animals, visitors, and nearby neighborhoods; the petition topped 30,000 signatures in about three hours. Energy Policy: TVA says it was selected for major Defense Production Act Title III funding to support reliability upgrades at the Cumberland Fossil Plant. Immigration & Courts: The ACLU of Tennessee and partners filed a federal class-action lawsuit challenging Tennessee’s HB 1704, arguing it should be blocked before it takes effect July 1. Memphis Public Safety Tech: Memphis Police’s Drone as First Responder program is credited with helping in more than 180 calls since launching in May. State Veterans Benefits: A new Tennessee law expands eligibility for interment in state veterans cemeteries to more reserve and National Guard members. Sports: Former US Open champion Sloane Stephens will play in the Memphis Classic July 25–Aug. 2.

Sports & College: Tennessee softball’s season ends in the Women’s College World Series semifinals as Texas beats the Lady Vols twice, leaving coach Karen Weekly with another near miss despite a roster full of returning starters. Baseball Outlook: Tennessee baseball looks ahead to 2027 with key returners set (including Cam Appenzeller and Trent Grindlinger) while the rotation and lineup may be reshaped through the transfer portal. Local Government: Nashville’s Ordinance No. 106 targets motor vehicle nuisances, spelling out removal/abatement rules and penalties. Rural Health Funding: State Sen. Ken Yager meets rural mayors on grant opportunities tied to Tennessee’s Rural Health Transformation Program, aiming to steer about $1 billion into rural counties over five years. Memphis Public Safety & Housing: Memphis Police expands drone use for faster response, while a renter’s sewage backup complaint highlights ongoing problems in aging apartments. Community & Culture: Memphis Parks brings back free “Family Fun Friday,” and Mud Island Amphitheater could reopen with ADA upgrades.

Memphis Public Safety: A 22-year-old man, Cameron Green, was arrested after admitting he fired 2–3 shots during a road rage crash on Primacy Parkway that followed a collision with a red Ford F-150. Court Update: Two Memphis firefighters accused of drag racing had their charges dropped due to lack of prosecution. Medical District Incident: A man was critically injured after being hit by a car near Union and S Pauline. Gun Violence Spotlight: A mother in the Frayser community is speaking out after her 1-year-old son was killed in a shooting, with no arrests reported. Criminal Justice: A former Weakley County 911 dispatcher was arrested after a TBI cybertip led to child sexual exploitation charges tied to CSAM shared on Snapchat. Health & Courts: A federal jury convicted Murfreesboro nurse practitioner Heather Marks for illegally distributing opioids. Local Life & Services: DeSoto County and Memphis-area partners are launching summer meal programs for kids, with multiple pickup sites and dates. Nashville & Sports: University of Memphis trustees voted to raise tuition and fees for 2026-27, while Memphis athletics is set for a full revenue share under the NCAA settlement.

Nashville Politics & Voting: Memphis leaders held a town hall on Tennessee’s congressional redistricting map, saying the changes could dilute Memphis voters’ influence and push for stronger voter registration, education and turnout as legal fights continue. Nursing Home Watch: CMS data highlighted mixed nursing-home performance across Tennessee, including low-star ratings at several facilities (some with fines/penalties) alongside standout higher ratings like a 4-star Grainger County home. NASCAR in Nashville: Denny Hamlin won the Cracker Barrel 400 after a jump-start penalty sent him to last, then a dramatic comeback in a sellout race that also saw brake-rotor problems end some Trackhouse hopes early. Community & Culture: Darius Rucker’s “Darius & Friends” at the Ryman raised more than $5.1 million for St. Jude, while Chattanooga FC earned a late equalizer on the road. Public Safety: A Clarksville AMBER Alert for a 3-year-old boy ended with him found safe, according to TBI. Everyday Life: AAA reports Tennessee gas prices fell 21 cents statewide, averaging $3.93.

NHL Leadership Shakeup: The Nashville Predators hired Colorado Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland as president of hockey operations and general manager, ending a long search after Barry Trotz’s retirement plans. Tennessee Sports—Baseball: Multiple Tennessee baseball players are entering the transfer portal after the Vols’ season ended with a regional loss to VCU, including sophomore utility Jay Abernathy. Recruiting Watch: Four-star Ohio offensive tackle Dominic Black is set to announce his 2027 commitment June 10, with Tennessee among the finalists. Local Economy & Travel: AAA reports Tennessee gas prices dipped below $4, while TDOT scheduled concrete lane closures on I-24 near Germantown Road for two weekends. Public Safety Alerts: TBI issued an AMBER Alert for a missing 3-year-old in Clarksville and a Silver Alert for a Sevier County man was later canceled as he was found safe. Health Care Moves: Baptist Memorial approved to take over Merit Health Rankin in Brandon, Mississippi, with a $70 million investment. Community & Culture: Chattanooga’s America 250 plans include a 500-drone show July 4 plus major events like Pops on the River and a Hamilton sing-along.

WCWS Championship Set: Texas and Texas Tech will meet for the NCAA Women’s College World Series title after both swept earlier Monday, setting up a best-of-three in Oklahoma City with first pitch at 7 p.m. daily on ESPN. Nashville Dining: Boka Restaurant Group is bringing Momotaro and Middleman to Wedgewood-Houston with June 5 openings, part of a larger three-concept plan. CMA Fest Guide: The festival’s food-and-drink plan for downtown Nashville highlights where to grab quick bites inside the footprint and where to venture for more options. Titans Update: AJ Brown is officially reuniting with Mike Vrabel in a blockbuster move to the New England Patriots. Broadcast Glitch: Holly Rowe started a live stream on Instagram after ESPN on ABC’s WCWS feed cut out mid-game. NASCAR Nashville: Denny Hamlin won the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway in a late three-wide battle. Statehood 230: Tennessee State Museum kicks off summer programming for Statehood Day with new exhibits and free public events.

Titans/OTAs: New Tennessee Titans coach Robert Saleh is leaning on OC Brian Daboll’s quarterback track record as Cam Ward ramps up in OTAs, with Saleh saying early sessions are “good” and built on trust. Sports—WCWS: Tennessee’s Lady Vols’ run ends again in the WCWS semifinals, falling to Texas twice; Karlyn Pickens pitched the full game in the 4-0 loss as Texas advanced to the finals. NASCAR Nashville: Denny Hamlin rebounded from a penalty to win the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway, finishing ahead of Christopher Bell after a dramatic restart finish. Memphis/Business: FedEx Freight began public trading June 1 after its split from FedEx Corp, with the new ticker “FDXF.” Real estate: Zillow faces a potential block in the Nashville-area market as MLS operator RealTracs and Zillow dispute listing access timing. Local human interest: A new 42-acre retreat center in Centerville, Bask, offers free weekend programs for veterans with PTSD. Public safety: Memphis police charged a suspect after an I-240 shooting and crash left two people hospitalized.

Pentagon/SpaceX Contract Fight: Reuters reports the Pentagon is considering buying thousands of Starshield terminal subscriptions after SpaceX executives pushed back on pricing for military use of Starlink-linked drone tech. Tornado Safety: A new analysis says tornado activity is shifting east into “Dixie Alley,” with Tennessee seeing more destructive nocturnal tornadoes and higher risk for communities. State Ethics: After 18 months, Tennessee’s cabinet members finally completed ethics training tied to past travel-payment disputes involving Gov. Bill Lee and Education Commissioner Lizette Reynolds. Healthcare Watchdog: Tennessee regulators say an Erlanger nurse stole fentanyl for months, and AI drug-monitoring software failed to flag missing meds. Memphis Church Incident: The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Memphis closed after a small fire behind the main altar. NASCAR Nashville: Denny Hamlin won the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway after a Lap 1 jumping-start penalty and a final-lap three-wide battle. Sports/Local Football: Chaz Coleman missed Tennessee team activities due to off-the-field issues, reigniting transfer chatter.

Memphis Public Safety: A large police presence shut down lanes on I-240 near Lamar and Getwell Sunday afternoon as officers blocked traffic while investigating. Robbery Chase: MPD says one person is in custody after a pursuit tied to a robbery and shots fired early Sunday; officers say the suspect vehicle was linked to the incident on Chatwood and was stopped after ending the chase near Elmore and Covington Pike. Madison County Shooting Pursuit: In West Tennessee, a multi-jurisdictional chase on I-40 ended with a deputy’s patrol car hit by gunfire; the suspect is accused in a shooting that left a victim struck by bullets, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating. Nashville Sports & Culture: Tennessee softball’s WCWS win over Texas Tech sparked a handshake-line dispute—coach Karen Weekly denied former player Taylor Pannell’s claim she said Pannell “made a mistake.” NASCAR Nashville: Denny Hamlin will start on the pole for the Cracker Barrel 400 after rain washed out qualifying; the race airs on Amazon Prime Video. Local Living: A study found Kingsport, Knoxville and Chattanooga among Tennessee’s most overpriced housing markets.

NASCAR & Weather: Rain canceled qualifying at Nashville Superspeedway, setting the Cracker Barrel 400 lineup by NASCAR rules. Denny Hamlin takes the pole, with Tyler Reddick alongside on the front row; Daniel Suarez starts third. NASCAR O’Reilly Series: Also affected by weather, Jesse Love was awarded the pole for the Sports Illustrated Resorts 250. Flooding Alerts: East Tennessee faced flash-flood danger with warnings and road closures across multiple counties as heavy rain hit saturated ground. WCWS Softball: Tennessee and Texas Tech met in a winners-bracket matchup, but ABC’s broadcast briefly went dark after a reported power outage at Devon Park. Tennessee Baseball: The Vols’ season ended after a 5-4 loss to VCU in the Chapel Hill Regional, going winless in the regional for the first time in program history. Crime & Safety: A man was fatally struck by a vehicle on Poplar Avenue in Memphis; authorities say the driver stayed on scene. Local Pop Culture: Dolly Parton’s Tennessean Travel Stop is set to open June 24 in Cornersville.

NASCAR in Nashville: Layne Riggs rallied late to win the Allegiance 200 at Nashville Superspeedway, taking the Victory Guitar trophy with a final-lap pass over Rajah Caruth after a rain delay and a wild finish. Softball postseason: Tennessee’s WCWS run is rolling—Texas was shut out by the Vols 6-3 in the opener, and the winners’ bracket matchup Saturday has Tennessee facing Texas Tech. Local courts and state power: Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy sued Tennessee to block two new laws he says illegally interfere with his office tied to the federal Memphis Safe Task Force. TV and streaming guide: CONCACAF Champions Cup coverage in the U.S. is on FOX/FS1/FS2 with streaming via Fubo. Sports betting watch: Nashville Cup Series odds and picks highlight Denny Hamlin as a heavy favorite for Sunday night’s race. Lottery: Tennessee Lottery results for May 29 include Mega Millions 19-24-47-59-65 (Mega Ball 07) and Cash 3 morning 6-9-0.