Why We’re Here — and Why It Matters Now

This week marks a milestone I don’t take lightly—the launch of the first print edition of Highlands Insider.

This newspaper exists because we love this community. We believe in it. And we believe the Upper Cumberland deserves local journalism rooted in truth, transparency, and hope—journalism that reflects the people who live here, work here, worship here, raise families here, and care deeply about the future we’re building together.

For me, this work is personal.

More than a decade ago, I lost my job at a major newspaper after standing for Biblical values. It cost my family dearly—our home, our sense of stability, and our place in the community we loved. At the time, I didn’t understand why God would allow that door to close.

Now I do.

God wasn’t ending my story—He was redirecting it.

Today, my husband Herbert and I own our own media company, and Highlands Insider was born out of that season of refining. This publication exists because I believe Jesus calls us to be light—not just in church, but in culture, in conversation, and yes, in civic life.

I believe deeply in people. I believe most of us want what is good, fair, and life-giving for our families and neighbors—even when we disagree on how to get there. I believe in the positive traits I see every day across this region: hard work, generosity, grit, compassion, and faith.

And I believe that when those qualities are paired with courage, communities thrive.

That belief is especially important during an election season.

Too often, I hear disappointment and frustration after outcomes are decided—yet many of the voices most grounded in faith and values never showed up when it mattered. As Christians, we are not called to sit on the sidelines and then lament the direction things take.

Silence is not humility.
 Disengagement is not faith.

We are called to be present.

That doesn’t mean everyone needs to run for office—but some should. It means supporting candidates, asking questions, attending meetings, voting, and speaking thoughtfully about what concerns you—and offering solutions, not just criticism.

At Highlands Insider, we are committed to doing our part. Over the coming weeks, we will sit down with candidates who are willing to engage respectfully. We will host town halls and some debates. We will provide factual, transparent information so you can make informed decisions—because an informed community is a stronger one.

This isn’t about division. It’s about stewardship.

I believe in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—but above all, I believe we are called to be bold, courageous, and unafraid. As Christians, we are not called to withdraw when the culture gets complicated. We are called to show up with truth, grace, and love.

I believe in Jesus Christ. And because of that belief, I have hope—not just for elections or policies, but for people. For neighbors. For families. For this community.

Highlands Insider exists to reflect that hope. To tell stories that matter. To give voice to everyday people. To shine light where it’s needed. And to remind us that revival doesn’t start somewhere else—it starts when people decide to show up.

Thank you for welcoming us. Thank you for trusting us. And thank you for being part of this community we are honored to serve.

Together, let’s move forward—with faith, courage, and confidence in what can still be built right here at home.

Editor’s Note

Welcome to the first print edition of Highlands Insider. Our goal is simple: to reflect this community honestly, report the facts clearly, and encourage meaningful conversation rooted in respect and integrity.

As a community-rooted newspaper serving the Highlands region, our mission is to provide factual, transparent reporting while celebrating the people, values, and stories that shape this region. We are grateful for the trust of our readers and look forward to fostering informed conversation, thoughtful civic engagement, and a shared commitment to the place we are proud to call home.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you as your hometown news source.

Liane - Pull Quote - Highlands Insider exists because we believe in this community — and in the good, God-given potential of the people who call it home. - Clarissa Reaves-Williams, Publisher & Editor