Grand jury indicts Kian Neal

A Hamilton County grand jury indicted Kian Neal on six criminal counts on Oct. 26 in connection with the death of 56-year-old Collegedale resident Robert Locke. The charges include first-degree murder, felony murder, aggravated burglary, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence and failure to exercise due care. Neal’s arraignment is scheduled for Nov. 4 before Judge Boyd Patterson in Hamilton County Criminal Court. A separate charge of death under suspicious, unusual or unnatural circumstances was dismissed.

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“Not-So-Normal People”: A memoir melding local people, places and great American stories

In his new book, “Not-So-Normal People: Great American Stories Preserved,” a local author recounts his childhood in Collegedale and the community’s transformation from a farm town into a growing college city. The memoir brings together true stories about military, political, social, cultural and religious history through the lives of people with Tennessee connections, including local business leaders, public figures and national icons. The author will read excerpts and sign copies at Ooltewah Whistlestop on Nov. 10.

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Shaye Moon, Patty Ensign and Cindy Blair chat while crafting together in the West Room in Collegedale’s City Hall. Tuesday, October 20, 2026. (Photo by Katie McConnell).

Crafting a community through Collegedale activities

From crocheting and knitting to walking groups and game nights, Collegedale Parks and Recreation offers activities that help residents connect and build community. The Happy Hookers Yarn Club brings together crafters of different experience levels, while Friends & Fun provides social opportunities for adults ages 50 and older. With six clubs meeting throughout the month, residents can learn new skills, share hobbies, volunteer and make lasting friendships. Newcomers are welcome, and walk-ins are accepted.

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Offical

The neighbor we need after the votes are counted

An election may determine who holds public office, but it does not change the importance of being good neighbors. In this opinion piece, Douglas Vandergraph reflects on Collegedale’s recent commission race and encourages residents to maintain respectful relationships despite disagreements over public safety, growth, budgets and local government. Drawing on his Christian faith, Vandergraph emphasizes listening, accountability and showing concern for neighbors regardless of political differences.

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Space Force monument to be unveiled at annual Veterans Day celebration

Collegedale’s annual Veterans Day celebration will include the unveiling of a star-shaped monument honoring the U.S. Space Force at Collegedale Veterans Memorial Park. Hosted by American Legion Desmond T. Doss Post 257, the Nov. 11 ceremony will feature the Collegedale Academy band and is expected to draw local and state officials. In addition to the celebration, post members will visit seven retirement homes and skilled nursing facilities on Nov. 10 to honor veterans who cannot attend.

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Dave O., a community member, takes a selfie with his service dog next to a voting sign outside of Chestnut Hall in Collegedale, Tennessee. Tuesday, November 3, 2026. (Photo by Katie McConnell)

Election results for the City of Collegedale

Jessica Fields and Tonya Sadler won seats on the Collegedale Board of Commissioners, receiving 1,161 and 1,084 votes, respectively. Tennessee voters also elected Republican candidates in several statewide and congressional races and approved all three proposed constitutional amendments. According to the Hamilton County Election Commission, 125,941 ballots were cast out of 223,809 active registered voters, resulting in a 56.27% voter turnout.

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