Knoxville, TN (WOKI) She’s made it official. A Knoxville city councilwoman announces her candidacy Thursday, November 9 for Tennessee State House District 90.

Currently in her second term on the Knoxville City Council, serving the 3rd District, Seema Singh is setting her sights on Representative Gloria Johnson’s seat in Nashville. Johnson is running against Marsha Blackburn for her seat in the U.S. Senate.

In a news release, Singh stated she felt called to bring her skills and experience to Tennessee’s state legislature.

“Despite the dysfunction in Nashville, I know we can, must and will make a difference in the General Assembly,” Singh said. “I know how to work toward common ground while holding my ground.”

Some of the top priorities Singh listed include keeping children safe, helping to ensure Tennesseeans have access to quality health care, fully funding public schools, and working to ensure the state attracts good jobs with good benefits.

“I’m running to listen to our communities and represent what Tennesseans actually want. I will be a spark for sanity in Nashville,” Singh said. “I hope that voters will support me so that I can take my proven skills in collaboration and cooperation to our State House.”

An official campaign kickoff event is scheduled for Wednesday, November 15 at Fanatic Brewery on North Central Street from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Cleveland, TN (WOKI) A cluster of fires burning in the Cherokee National Forest is being investigated as arson.

Forest officials report there are three fires altogether, collectively being called the Buck Bald Fire:

• Hogum Hollo 44 acres, North Zone, 2 miles SW of Roan Mountain
• Bullet 78 acres, South Zone, 5 miles SE of Etowah
• Buck Bald 140 acres, South Zone

“We’re seeing a rapid increase in wildfires across the forest placing people, homes and infrastructure at great risk,” said Stephanie Bland, deputy forest supervisor with the Cherokee National Forest. “Human-caused fires take valuable resources away from the protection of people and structures making dry conditions much more dangerous for everyone.”

Officials say the situation is exacerbated by drought and dry conditions. They say some structures are at risk but add that firefighters are working to keep people and property safe.