Even as her talents and work ethic opened up the world to her, she kept coming home. For many in the complicated region she’s from, that meant a lot.

© Will Crooks for The New York Times

The country music star kept her home state at the forefront of her music and work. “She inspired Tennesseans to be better,” one resident said.

© Landon Edwards for The New York Times

Frustrated with the government’s slow effort to improve Nashville’s public transit infrastructure, a group of residents has taken bus stop seating into their own hands.

© Seth Herald for The New York Times