United Way and Alexander Auto Team Again For “Chase The Cars”!
September 3, 2010
The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties has announced that it will feature the Chase the Cars promotion again during its 2010 fundraising campaign. Any individual contributing $300 or more to the local United Way by December 31st will automatically be entered to win a brand new Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris, or Ford Fiesta donated by Alexander Automotive Murfreesboro.
“We are so grateful for the generosity of Alexander Automotive Murfreesboro in their contribution to the campaign through the Chase the Cars initiative,” said Pat Murphy, 2010 Campaign Chair and plant manager at General Mills. “Last year, there were 1,274 eligible donors for the giveaway and our 25 finalists represented the many professions and industries that compose our workplace campaigns.”
The vehicles will be showcased at local retailers and community events throughout the end of the year. The Avenue Murfreesboro will be the first to host the vehicle, where it will be on display through September 8th.
The 2010 United Way campaign marks the third year that the Chase the Cars promotion has been incorporated into the local United Way’s campaign. Dr. Andra Helton, principal at Thurman Francis Arts Academy in Smyrna, was the winner of a Ford Focus following the 2009 campaign.
Individuals become eligible after making a donation via payroll deduction, check, cash, or credit card that totals $300 or more. Twenty-five finalists will be notified by March 1, 2011, and must be present at the final drawing to be eligible to win the car.
Those interested in donating to United Way may do so via www.uwrutherford.org or by calling (615) 893-7303. Retailers in Rutherford and Cannon counties interested in displaying a car at their location can contact Meagan Flippin at (615) 893-7303 ext. 102 or meagan.flippin@uwrutherford.org.
United Way will officially kick off its 2010 campaign in conjunction with the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours on September 14 at City Tile, located at 223 Spring Street in Murfreesboro. The event will be 5 PM – 7 PM and cost is $5 for chamber members and $10 for non-members. The Chase the Cars vehicles will also be on display at the kick-off event.
“Gypsy” Open September 10th At Murfreesboro Center for the Arts
September 3, 2010
The Center for the Arts will present "Gypsy!” directed by Robert Allen, beginning September 10. Musical direction by Denis Pessar with choreography by Julie Wilcox.
Gypsy, which many critics have called the greatest American musical of all time, is based on the 1957 memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, the famous striptease artist. The show focuses on her mother, Rose, whose name has become synonymous with the ultimate show business mother. The musical, set during the Vaudeville area, follows the dreams and efforts of Rose as she tries to raise her two daughters - Louise (better known as Gypsy Rose Lee) and June (better known to many as actress June Havoc) to perform onstage.
L-R photo ID: Kaylin Davis as Louise Hovick – aka Gypsy Rose Lee; along with Francine Berk as Rose Hovick & Caroline the Cow.
The Role of Rose Hovick is played by the inimitable Francine Berk, Louise Hovick – aka Gypsy Rose Lee is played by the talent Kaylin Davis. ‘Baby’ June is depicted by Emily Conley, ‘Dainty June’ is played by the talented Kaylie Hackett and ‘Baby’ Louise is portrayed by Calee Bryant.
Gypsy will be presented from September 10-26, 2010, Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, students and active military, and $10 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be reserved by calling 615-904-2787 or on line at www.boroarts.
The Center for the Arts is located at 110 W. College St., one block off the historic Murfreesboro Square. For more information, visit their website at www.BoroArts.org or call 615-904-2787.
Minnesota Escapes With A 24-17 Win Over Middle Tennessee
September 2, 2010
The Golden Gophers come to Murfreesboro and escape with a 24-17 win over Middle Tennessee. Chip Walters and Kelly Holcomb had the play-by-play on WGNS and talk about Minnesota’s size, which proved to be too much for the Blue Raiders…
Middle Tennessee will be back in action on next Saturday, the 11th, at home versus Austin Peay. Kickoff is at 6pm, with pregame coverage beginning at 3 on WGNS AM / FM.
Coach Rick Stockstill on the game…
Middle Tennessee Quarterback Logan Kilgore…
UPDATE: THP High Speed Chase From Marion to Rutherford County
September 2, 2010
More on the high-speed chase Thursday morning (9/2/2010) that began in Marion County and continued until the vehicle crashed near Murfreesboro’s Joe B. Jackson Parkway (west bound mile marker 84). Department of Safety spokesperson Mike Browning told WGNS News, “The driver and passenger in the fleeing vehicle were both taken to the ER at Middle Tennessee Medical Center. However, the passenger was later transported to the Trauma Center at Vanderbilt Hospital.” Both suspects are from Atlanta. Driver of the vehicle is 23-year old Teaundre Deangelo Brown. Passenger is 22-year old Ricquel Jerome Luttery. The case is under investigation and the Tennessee Highway Patrol only says that the high speed chase began when a trooper clocked the vehicle driving 91 miles per hour in a 55 mile per hour zone.
Photo: Murfreesboro real estate broker Justin Holder was driving by seconds after the crash occurred. Here you see the wrecked vehicle still smoking as two troopers and a deputy approach the vehicles with their weapons drawn.
Initially Driving 91 In A 55 MPH Zone
The Highway Patrol Chattanooga District Trooper Nick Neal initiated the pursuit on I-24 near the 135 mile marker in Marion County. Trooper Neal clocked the vehicle driving a reckless 91 mph in a 55 mph zone.The driver of the car apparently refused to stop when law enforcement tried to pull him over. The car had Georgia tags and other motorist say the driver was passing people on the shoulder of the road during the chase. The pursuit reached speeds of up to 120-miles per hour between Marion County and Murfreesboro on I-24 West.
During the chase, officers made 3-attempts to stop the speeding car with a set of spike strips. Each attempt failed. The culprit avoided the strips by slowing down just enough to steer into the grassy median and around the metal spikes. Authorities in Rutherford County placed the 4th spike strip across the interstate near the Joe B. Jackson Parkway exit in hopes of stopping the subject. The suspect attempted to hit a patrol car during the pursuit, and eventually lost control in Murfreesboro where the spike strip had been placed. The subject crashed at west bound mile marker 84 (toward Nashville). The pursuit lasted approximately 25 minutes. As to why the driver refused to stop – it is not known at this time. The case is under investigation.
Labor Day Holiday Hours At MTSU
September 2, 2010
As the Labor Day holiday weekend approaches, certain MTSU facilities will be open or observe special hours of operation. These include:
• the James E. Walker Library will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and closed Sunday and Monday. It will be open from 7:30 a.m. until midnight Sept. 7. For more information, call 615-898-2772;
• Keathley University Center will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday and open Monday from 4 until 11 p.m.;
• the Health, Wellness and Recreation Center will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and closed Saturday through Monday. It will reopen at 6 a.m. Tuesday. For more information, call 615-898-2104;
• Phillips Bookstore, which is on the first floor in KUC, will be open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday and be closed Sunday and Monday. It will reopen at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday;
• Dwight’s Mini Mart, outside the KUC Grill area, will be open Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., then closed the rest of the weekend. It reopens at 8 a.m. Tuesday;
• the James Union Building will be open from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday and closed until it reopens at 7 a.m. Tuesday;
• Information Technology’s Help Desk will close at 11:59 p.m. Sunday and reopen at 8 a.m. Tuesday, said Robin Jones, director of IT Communication Support Services. For more information, call 615-898-5345.
ARAMARK Dining Services locations and hours of operation:
• McCallie will be open from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday;
• Cyber Café will be open from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and open from 7 a.m. Monday until 2 a.m. Tuesday, then reopening at 7 a.m. that day.
Note: The KUC Grill and Raider Zone at the JUB will be closed from Saturday until Tuesday morning when regular hours resume. For more information, call 615-898-2675 or 615-904-8486, or visit www.mtdining.com.
No classes will be held and all offices will be closed Monday, the university announced. Classes resume and offices will be open from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday.
MTSU Public Safety (Campus Police) has personnel available 24 hours a day in case of emergencies. For information, call 615-898-2424.
State Employee’s PAC Back Bill Ketron’s Re-Election To 13th District State Senate
September 2, 2010
The Tennessee Employees Action Movement (TEAM), the Political Action Committee of the Tennessee State Employees Association, endorses Murfreesboro’s Bill Ketron in his bid for re-election to the 13th District State Senate seat.
TEAM Chair James Braswell said, “Bill Ketron appreciates state employees and values the services they provide daily to the citizens of Tennessee. He understands that quality services depend on a motivated, effective and efficient workforce and has shown a commitment to improving working conditions for state employees.”
TSEA was established in 1974. For further information, visit the Web site at www.tseaonline.org.
IRS Scam Alert
September 2, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service issued an alert today regarding a new e-mail scam that uses the name of the government’s Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to lure victims.
"This scam claims you made a tax payment through EFTPS that was rejected," said IRS spokesman Dan Boone.
"Remember the IRS never sends e-mails about your taxes," Boone said.
The recipient of this new scam e-mail is directed to a website which contains malware that may infect the user’s computer.
If you receive this or any similar message claiming to be from the IRS or EFTPS, do not access links or submit any information. Forward the message immediately to IRS at phishing@irs.gov using the instructions at IRS.gov.
EFTPS is a tax payment system provided free by the U.S. Department of Treasury that allows individual or business taxpayers to pay federal taxes electronically via the Internet or by phone 24/7. Visit EFTPS to enroll.
For information about other common tax scams, check out the IRS Dirty Dozen Tax Scams for 2010 at IRS.gov.
Out of State Man Caught Driving on Revoked License
September 2, 2010
A Huntsville, Alabama man has been arrested in Murfreesboro for driving on a revoked license for the 4th time. 41-Year old Billie Leslie was stopped in his Cadillac while driving down Main Street. The Alabama man will have to return to Tennessee on October 5th to face the driving on a revoked charge, in General Sessions Court.
OFFICIAL: MPD Chief Garrett Retires from City Police to Work at Sheriffs Office
September 2, 2010
FROM THE MPD: Deputy Chief of Police Randy Garrett has announced his retirement from the Murfreesboro Police Department after 34 years of service. The retirement was effective Tuesday, August 31, 2010. His last working day was Friday, August 27, 2010. A retirement ceremony will be held at the Murfreesboro Police Annex training room on Friday September 3, 2010 at 2:30 p.m. and is open to the public.
Deputy Chief Garrett joined the Murfreesboro Police Department July 1, 1976 as a patrol officer having previously served at the Watertown Police Department. He was promoted after three (3) years to Sergeant in the Uniform Patrol Division. In July, 1984 he was promoted to Lieutenant; August, 1995 to Captain; and Major in July, 1996, all in the Uniform Patrol Division. In October 2003, Garrett was promoted to his current position of Deputy Chief of Police.
Deputy Chief Garrett was awarded the Officer of the Year award in 1982 and has been commended numerous times throughout his career. He is a graduate of the 191st session of the FBI National Academy and has attended thousands of hours of law enforcement training during his tenure at the Murfreesboro Police Department. He is a 2008 graduate of Leadership Rutherford. He is a member of the FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA), the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police (TACP) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).
Becoming Second In Command At Sheriffs Office
Chief of Police Glenn Chrisman stated: “Deputy Chief Garrett has had a remarkable career serving the citizens and visitors of the City of Murfreesboro. For thirty-four (34) years he has helped save lives, brought criminals to justice, and made Murfreesboro a safer community. His leadership as a supervisor, commander and as Deputy Chief of Police is legendary in our department. During his career, he has influenced hundreds of police officers. He has helped officers personally, professionally, and most importantly, always encouraged them to be the best they could be day in and day out. We commend him for his service and immeasurable contributions to the Murfreesboro Police Department. As he closes this chapter of his career, we look forward to working with him as he serves the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department as Chief Deputy. We look forward to a continued strong relationship with the Sheriff’s Department including working with Chief Deputy Garrett in his new capacity to make Murfreesboro and Rutherford County a safe and wonderful community.”
UPDATE: Hot Pursuit Down I-24 Between Manchester and Murfreesboro Ends Near S. Church St.
September 2, 2010
The Tennessee Highway Patrol and deputies from neighboring counties chased a vehicle down I-24 Thursday morning at 10. The Highway Patrol Chattanooga District Trooper Nick Neal initiated the pursuit on I-24 near the 135 mile marker in Marion County. Trooper Neal clocked the vehicle driving a reckless 91 mph in a 55 mph zone.The driver of the car apparently refused to stop when law enforcement tried to pull him over. The car had Georgia tags and other motorist say the driver was passing people on the shoulder of the road during the chase. The pursuit reached speeds of up to 120-miles per hour between Marion County and Murfreesboro on I-24 West.
During the chase officers made 3-attempts to stop the speeding car with a set of spike strips. Each attempt failed. The culprit avoided the strips by slowing down just enough to steer into the grassy median and around the metal spikes. Authorities in Rutherford County placed the 4th spike strip across the interstate near the Joe B. Jackson Parkway exit in hopes of stopping the subject. The suspect attempted to hit a patrol car during the pursuit and eventually lost control in Murfreesboro where the spike strip had been placed. The subject crashed at mile marker 84.
The pursuit lasted approximately 25 minutes. The suspect in the vehicle was taken to the hospital, according to Mike Browning with the Department of Safety. A second person was also injured in the pursuit. That person has also been transported to the hospital. As to why the driver refused to stop – it is not known at this time. The case is under investigation.
PHOTO: Click to enlarge – taken by Realtor Justin Holder
MURFREESBORO: Special Benefit Event for Family of 6 Who Lost 37-Year Old Father
September 2, 2010
A benefit program for Michael Benford, a 37-year old man who leaves behind four children will be held on FRIDAY. Mary Glass explains…
The event is FRIDAY NIGHT at 7 at the Smith Fork Tabernacle on Halls Hill Pike in Murfreesboro. Everyone is invited to attend to help this family during their time of need.
Need More Information:
Call Dorothy Matthews at 615-907-0555
UPDATE: Child on Motorized Mini Bike Hit by State Trooper
September 2, 2010
We have more news on the 11-year old child who was riding a motorized mini-bike when struck by a State Troopers’ patrol car. The accident occurred on Wednesday afternoon at 4 on Lee Lane off of Elam Road. Reports indicate the child who was struck by the car was not wearing a helmet. The good news is that the child was not seriously injured and was treated and released from the hospital.
State Trooper Joseph Carmouche who was driving the car that struck the 11-year old was off duty and on his way home when the accident happened. The case is under investigation.
Saving For College – New Plan by State and Costs to Attend MTSU
September 2, 2010
The state of Tennessee is about to start offering parents extra financial incentive to save for their children’s college education.
There are about six million people in Tennessee but only about 2,000 are taking advantage of a state college savings plan. Tennessee has a tax-free savings plan that’s helping some people, but State Treasurer David Lillard says participation is low. He is hoping incentives like scholarships, grants or matching dollars for participants will give the program a boost and children a future.A strong savings account and a plan for future would go a long way, especially when tuition fees at schools like MTSU run about $15,000, if a student is living on campus.
September is College Savings Month in Tennessee. Right now, if the parent of a newborn contributed $50 a month into the state’s plan that money could nearly double at an earnings rate of four percent by the time the child is ready for college. Lillard said the new incentive plan should be in place by December.
More Information:
Go to path2college529.com for more information.
UPDATE: Fire at Islamic Center of Murfreesboro
September 2, 2010
The Islamic Center of Murfreesboro has posted a public comment on their website in regards to the arson that was reported on Friday, August 27th. The information shows they beleive an individual or individuals trespassed onto the property of the future site of the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro and intentionally set fire to construction equipment. As reported earlier, a heavy hauler was destroyed in the fire. A fire accelerant was also found to have been used in starting the blaze.
The Islamic Center of Murfreesboro posted online:
“This atrocious act of terrorism has shaken our community and left many frightened, especially the children. However, we place our at most trust in our local and federal law-enforcement authorities and know that justice and truth will ultimately prevail. The members of the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro maintain their strong will while practicing their constitutional rights and they just wish to reside in peace within this great community. Although we feel heartbroken that we have been a victim of yet another shameful crime, however, we are grateful to the majority members of this community who expressed their support. We believe that this event was instigated by the hate campaign that our Muslim community has been subjected to recently.”
The arson is being investigated.
County Officials Sworn In at Courthouse
September 1, 2010
A generous batch of newly elected Rutherford County officials including members of the county commission and courts, as well as re-elected Mayor Ernest Burgess, were sworn into their positions in a ceremony held in the county courthouse, Wednesday, September 1st. The oath read the same for all parties, and pledged to not only serve the county, but uphold the Constitution in doing so. Afterwards a brief commission meeting was held, the first with the new group, where a commission chairman and steering committee was elected, and appointments were made to the planning commission.
UPDATED: Murfreesboro Family Learning Center Posts Needed Wish List
September 1, 2010
The Murfreesboro City Schools Family Learning Center has formed an important wish list of items they need to better serve student this school year. Murfreesboro operates two centers that serve Murfreesboro City School children and their families, system wide and with a special emphasis on the Franklin Heights area. The Family Learning Center in Franklin Heights, a government housing structure.
Andrea Bell with the center wrote, “In the next several weeks, we will be working hard to create and develop a warm, welcoming environment at the Family Learning Center in order to better engage and empower Murfreesboro children, families, and communities to achieve and succeed!”
Once you have decided how you or your group would like to help, please contact Andrea Bell at 663-9721. You can also email Andrea: andrea.bell@cityschools.net.
Family Learning Center Wish List
The Ultimate Wish:
For each room and category to be adopted by a civic group, faith-based community, school organization, family, business, etc. committed to creating and maintaining an awesome space at the FLC. This is a great way to serve the community and have your group take ownership of a service project!
Baby Room (Goal: safe, engaging, and fun childcare room during class times)
Foam, interlocking play floor (96 sq); black and white
Play Kitchen and accessories
Tool Bench and accessories
Easily sanitized toys (Infant-6 yrs.); no batteries needed
Mural or black and white polka dots painted on wall
Baby wipes
Family Room/Older Youth
(Goal: Youth hangout, small group meeting room. encourage/model healthy family interaction)
Family Friendly Board games (ex. Jenga, Candyland, Catch Phrase, Phase 10, Scattegories)
1 Easy clean loveseat/1 easy clean couch (possibly vinyl)
Small folding Card/game table
TV/TV stand or mount to wall/DVD/DVDs (family oriented/educational-G, PG)
Set of standing, table lamps
Pictures for walls (ex: families, motivational art, etc.)
Childcare Bathroom
Colorful and/or clear plastic storage to fit on shelves
First Aide Kit
Velcro curtain around storage shelves
Childcare Kitchen
Child plates/forks/spoons
Sippy cups
Stocked with healthy snacks (Juice boxes, cheerios, animal crackers)
Dish washing liquid, dishcloths and towels
Dish drying rack
Family/Staff Kitchen (Goal: Utilized for cooking classes, staff use)
Dish washing liquid
Dish towels/cloths
Dish drying rack
Set of dinnerware, flatware, cups
Small breakfast table and chairs (4)
Coffee pot
Microwave
Serving items for special events
Cleaning Supplies
Clorox Wipes (Many)
All purpose cleaner/disinfectant
Windex
Dust cleaner
Paper towels
Boxes of tissues
Cleaning brushes, cloths
Sports Equipment
(2) Girls and (2) Boys basketball (outdoor)
(2) Footballs
(2) Soccer balls
Portable soccer goals
Air pump
Jump Ropes
Hula Hoops
Small Conference Room/Multi-Purpose (Goal: Professional; quiet environment for tutoring)
Large floor rug (dark brown)
Entry Table
Coat Rack
Set of standing/table lamps
Storage box of calculators
Storage box of each: pencils, crayons, washable markers, rulers, notebook paper
Pictures for walls (ex: families, motivational art, etc.)
Computer Room:
User Friendly and Current Books on Resume Building, Online Jobs Searching, Microsoft Word, Computer Basics, etc.
Screen cleaner
Keyboard Air Duster
General Items:
Clear (S, M, L) totes to fit on closet shelves to label and clear rolling storage units for closet floors
Labeler
Holiday items (Christmas, Easter, Halloween)
Shelf paper
Sidewalk Chalk
Coloring Books/Crayons
Lightweight portable indoor/outdoor tables (8)
Once you have decided how you or your group would like to help,
please contact Andrea Bell at 663-9721.
Possible Change of Plans for Islamic Center of Tennessee
September 1, 2010
More news on the sensitive Mosque issue in Middle Tennessee. As plans in Murfreesboro continue to move forward with the clearing of land on Veals Road for a future structure, plans have been put on hold in Antioch.
You may recall, Muslim leaders in Nashville were going to transform the old Bell Forge Theater near Hickory Hollow Mall into a worship center that included classrooms and basketball courts. The center was also going to have a swimming pool. Local followers of Islam are now considering leasing the building to Nashville Tech. A number of months ago, Nashville Tech showed interest in buying the old theater, but they could not gather enough money to buy the property. Muslim leaders purchased the property for $1.5-million dollars, a bid that was higher then Nashville Tech. Evidently, residents near the theater had signed a petition encouraging the owners of the theater to sell the property to Nashville Tech for educational purposes.
Only time will tell if the Islamic Center of Tennessee moves forward with original plans to convert the Bell Forge Theater into a worship center of if they decide to lease the property to Nashville Tech.
Learn More:
August 10th Press Release Notifying the Public that the Bell Forge Theater had been Sold”
The Islamic Center of Tennessee (ICT) announces the purchase of the Antioch property(Carmike Theatre) located on 5400 Bell Forge Lane in Nashville, TN. The purchase of the Center was made possible through contributions and funding provided by hard working American Muslims.
There are thousands of American Muslims who live in Middle Tennessee that call this area their home. The new Center will cater for the growing needs of American Muslims from all walks of life and serve as a place of worship and a comprehensive Center. ICT is determined to reach out to the public and to promote strong interfaith relationships as well as foster bridges of understanding with neighbors, people of other faiths, and the public at large. The Center will focus on meaningful dialogues on matters of faith, peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and pluralism. The Center’s mission will encompass education of the youth to help them to be able to do the right things at the time it has to be done relative to respecting others, and to learn to live peacefully while contributing to the positive advancement of human society. The Center will promote intellectual discourse and network individuals and students of religious studies and scholars alike on learning the Islamic Sciences. Studies done by The Pew Research Centre reported three years ago that most Muslim Americans were “largely assimilated, happy with their lives… and decidedly American in their outlook, values and attitudes.” The Center will soon be open to the public to visit, meet, and interact with American Muslims.
Islamic Centers in TN have enjoyed good relations with their neighbors and Muslims are happy to be raising families in Tennessee. ICT will continue to build upon these good relations and advance the mission of the greater good of togetherness and community unity.
Murfreesboro Offices Closed on Monday – Pool and Golf Courses “OPEN”
September 1, 2010
During the Labor Day Holiday, The City of Murfreesboro will be closed on Monday, September 6th. Despite all city services being closed, the Old Fort and VA Golf Courses and the Sports Com Outdoor Pool will remain open on Monday.
Regular Garbage Pickup will not take place on Monday and has been rescheduled for Tuesday. Tuesday’s garbage pickup will be on Wednesday in the City of Murfreesboro.
Murfreesboro Middle Half has New Spokesperson
September 1, 2010
.jpg?n=5096 "Murphy's Burrow")
Murph, who lives in Murphry’s Burrow and is a regular face on Murfreesboro’s Cable Channel 3, has signed on as spokesbunny for the Murfreesboro Half Marathon’s Fun Run, newly named Murph’s Fun Run. "The race committee searched for a person, or animal, who embodied our mission of health and fitness while having fun" said Melinda Tate, race director. "Murph was the obvious choice, as he is an advocate of helping kids lead a healthy and happy lifestyle."
The one-mile race is open to children ages 6 through 13 and will start immediately after the start of The Murfreesboro Half Marathon Oct. 16 at 7 a.m. The registration fee is $15 per child. The course begins in the Greenland Drive parking lot at MTSU, goes up and down a portion of Old Lascassas Highway and finishes on the track at MTSU’s Dean Hayes Track and Soccer Stadium. Murph is the host of Adventures in Murphry’s Burrow, a collaboration among Murfreesboro City Schools, Cable Channel 3 and series creator nancy Phillips. It airs which airs weekdays at 3:30 p.m. and weekends at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
"I am so ‘hoppy’ to be the face of the Murfreesboro Fun Run," said Murph. "Even with the hectic life of a celebrity, I try to stay healthy and to let children know how important it is to eat right and get plenty of exercise. I guess I am the obvious choice for spokesbunny since I run everywhere I go." Participants will receive a souvenir t-shirt, a finisher’s medal, a goodie bag and refreshments at the finish area. There will be two starting times. The first group, ages 10 to 13, immediately after the start of the half marathon and be followed by a start for children ages 6 through 9.
Registration forms are available at Fleet Feet Sports, SportsCom, Patterson Community Center and Barfield Park Office. Online registration and more information may be found on the Kids Fun Run page at www.TheMiddleHalf.com. "It is going to be so much fun and everyone is welcome….except for tortoises (due to their unfair advantage and secret ninja skills)," said Murph.
Highway Patrol to Set Up Roadside Safety Checkpoint This Weekend
September 1, 2010
State Troopers will be out in full force on Saturday. Trooper Rick Jones told WGNS NEWS…
Special Event at Nashville Symphony – Middle Tennessee Invited to Attend
September 1, 2010
World-renowned pianist André Watts will help the Nashville Symphony kick off the SunTrust Classical Series, September 16-19 at Lipscomb University’s Collins Alumni Auditorium. He’ll be the featured soloist on Beethoven’s fifth piano concerto, a piece marked by energetic, sparkling passages and a second movement of uncommon beauty. The evening opens with two pieces inspired by Shakespeare’s beloved romantic tragedy Romeo and Juliet: Tchaikovsky’s Overture-Fantasy is best known for its soaring, achingly beautiful love theme, while Leonard Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances is a lively adaptation of his music from West Side Story.
WGNS’ Scott Walker is a member of the Nashville Symphony Council. The Nashville Symphony Council is an organization of established community leaders in Middle Tennessee who are the first to know about major developments within The Nashville Symphony. It includes leaders in all sectors of our region: from law, medicine, religion, education and community service to real estate, banking, technology and government among several others.
Other members of the council include Ronni Shaw with Read to Succeed, Rita Shacklett with the Linebaugh Library, Jonathan Jones with Red Realty, Justin Holder with Bob Parks Realty, Henry Golczynski with Franklins Printing, Phil Cavender with the Cavender Financial Group, just to name a few.
Rebecca Dempsy Upton with Dempsey Vantrease & Follis, PLLC and Peter Demos with Demos’ Restaurants are both co-chairs for the Rutherford County chapter of the Nashville Symphony Council.
To learn more or to obtain tickets, visit http://www.nashvillesymphony.org/
Photos and information from the Nashville Symphony, Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
United Way Kick Off Party Nearing
September 1, 2010
The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties will kick off its annual campaign at the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours on September 14th at City Tile in Murfreesboro. United Way Campaign Chair Pat Murphy will announce this year’s campaign goal, recognize pacesetter campaigns, and reveal the percentage of the goal already attained through pacesetter campaigns.
The annual campaign, which occurs during the fall each year, has a goal of securing pledges from the community through workplace campaigns, special events, and individual contributions that benefit the local United Way’s 44 partner agencies and programs.
The event will be from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, and City Tile is located at 223 South Spring Street. The cost is $5 for Chamber of Commerce members and $10 for non-members.
Voting on the Right to Hunt and Fish in Tennessee This November?
September 1, 2010
A constitutional amendment to guarantee the right to hunt and fish in Tennessee will go before voters in November’s general election.
Voters will see the Constitutional Amendment question on the ballot right after the Governor candidates.
You will be asked to vote either "yes" or "no" to the following question: "Shall Article XI, Section 13 of the Constitution of the State of Tennessee be amended by adding the following sentences at the end of the section:"
"The citizens of this state shall have the personal right to hunt and fish, subject to reasonable regulations and restrictions prescribed by law. The recognition of this right does not abrogate any private or public property rights, nor does it limit the state’s power to regulate commercial activity. Traditional manners and means may be used to take non-threatened species."
Voters will also be electing a new governor, a new representative for the U.S. House of Representatives from the sixth district. State representative and senators will also be elected. In LaVergne, Smyrna and Eagleville, new Mayors and Councilmen or Aldermen will also be chosen. The election will be Tuesday, November 2nd. Early voting is set for October 13th-28th.
The Charging Stations for Cars are Coming to Murfreesboro
September 1, 2010
Finding a place to fill up your car is not that big a deal here in Rutherford County, but what if you drive an electric car?
Murfreesboro is one of several communities in Tennessee that will be a site for a future charging stations.
A recent meeting was held with participants such as Nissan, TVA and Clean Cities of Middle Tennessee (CCMT) as well as leaders from other Tennessee communities, to learn more about the initiative. CCMT is a voluntary program of the U.S. Department of Energy for the expansion of the use of alternatives to gasoline and diesel fuel. Other communities including Shelbyville, Manchester and Columbia could also have the charging stations.
Currently, two major auto makers are coming out with fully electric models — the Chevy Volt, which only has a range of around 40 miles per charge, and the Nissan Leaf, with a nearly 100-mile range. But smaller firms are also developing electric vehicles as well.
According to Nissan, it takes eight hours to get a full charge for a Leaf with a 220/240V home charging station. A 480V quick-charging capability will eventually be made available, that charger would charge the vehicles in approximately 28 minutes. –WMSR
Arnold Takes Office as New Sheriff
September 1, 2010
Well now it truly is official, there is a new sheriff in town. When new Sheriff Robert Arnold opened the door to his new office at midnight last night, he also opened the door into a new era of law enforcement in Rutherford County, ending Truman Jones’ impressive 28 year tenure. But the midnight meeting wasn’t purely ceremonial; Arnold actual had fair reason to believe that his office might have been left in a state of disarray, or that evidence might have been misplaced or tampered with, as has been the case in many neighboring counties during the transition to an incoming sheriff. We’re glad to report that there was no funny business. And although Arnold won the election by over 2,700 votes, to all the non-believers out there, he offers this simple request: "Just give me a chance, that’s all I’m asking for is just give me a chance."
Federal grant aids Rutherford anti-drug efforts
August 31, 2010
A $125,000 Drug Free Communities Support Program grant will allow the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of Rutherford County to continue its efforts to curb drug use among the county’s youth, Congressman Bart Gordon announced.
“These funds will help CADCOR continue its efforts to reduce young people’s access to drugs in Rutherford County,” Gordon said. “This is an organization that looks at the factors that drive kids to drug use and aims to stop drug abuse at the root causes.”
CADCOR is an alliance of community agencies, groups and individuals working to reduce youth substance abuse at the community level. CADCOR will use the grant to assess and address youth drug use in Murfreesboro, with a focus on the Patterson Park community area. DFC funding accounts for a substantial proportion of the program’s total budget, according to Coalition Coordinator Karen Lambert.
“Our DFC funding will allow us to conduct student surveys and learn about the issues young people face. Alcohol and marijuana remain major problems and prescription drug abuse is on the rise,” Lambert said. “We collaborate closely with families, retail establishments and law enforcement to figure out where kids are getting these things and what can be done to make them harder to access.”
The President’s Office of National Drug Control Policy administers the Drug Free Communities Support Program
Middle Tennessee Medical Center Set To Move 10-2-10, But No One Ready To Take Old Hospital.
August 31, 2010
Middle Tennessee Medical Center is nearing moving day. On Saturday, October 2nd, ambulances will be busy all day transporting patients from the old complex to the state-of-the-art 286-bed hospital on Medical Center Parkway.
How Will The Old Hospital Be Used?
During the question and answer segment of Tuesday’s Murfreesboro Rotary Club meeting, the question of how will the old hospital be used came up. MTMC Vice President of Support Services Rodger Klein indicated, “There have been several inquiries, but no one has pulled out a checkbook.” A Rotary member asked if various public service organizations might locate offices there? The hospital’s Vice President of Membership and Leadership Formation Timm Glover noted they conducted several public meetings and gathered many ideas on what the community would like to see on the Highland Avenue campus. He indicated that the idea of non-profit groups using a hospital had in fact been done in another city, but no decision has been made for Murfreesboro.
L-R photo ID: MTMC VP of Support Services Rodger Klein, VP of Mission and Leadership Formation Timm Glover, and Project Manager Jennifer Garland.
Open House and Ribbon Cutting
Middle Tennessee Medical Center’s Project Director Jennifer Garland shared some of the patient-friendly services that will be offered when the new 68.5 acre campus opens on October 2nd. However, before that date–the public will have an opportunity to tour the new hospital on Saturday, September 25th, from 11:00 that morning until 3:00 in the afternoon. A ribbon cutting will take place at noon on that day. Check their website: www.TheNewMTMC.org.
BULLETIN: Fleet Footed Celebrity Rabbit Named Middle Half Spokesperson!
August 31, 2010
"Murph", the beloved rabbit who lives in "Murphry’s Burrow", has signed on as spokesbunny for the Murfreesboro Half Marathon’s Fun Run, newly named "Murph’s Fun Run".
"The race committee searched for a person, or animal, who embodied our mission of health and fitness while having fun" said Melinda Tate, race director. "Murph was the obvious choice, as he is an advocate of helping kids lead a healthy and happy lifestyle."
The one-mile race is open to children ages 6 - 13 and will start immediately after the start of The Murfreesboro Half Marathon at 7 a.m. on October 16. The registration fee is $15 per child. The course begins in the Greenland Drive parking lot at MTSU, goes up and down a portion of Old Lascassas Hwy. and finishes on the track at MTSU’s Dean Hayes Track and Soccer Stadium.
Murph is the host of the national award winning children’s educational television program Adventures in Murphry’s Burrow which airs on the cable access channel City 3. Now in its seventh season, the series is a winning collaboration between Murfreesboro City Schools, City 3, and series creator Nancy Phillips. It airs weekdays at 3:30 p.m., weekends at 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. for the newest episode.
"I am so ‘hoppy’ to be the face of the Murfreesboro Fun Run," said Murph. "Even with the hectic life of a celebrity, I try to stay healthy and to let children know how important it is to eat right and get plenty of exercise. I guess I am the obvious choice for spokesbunny since I run everywhere I go!"
Participants will receive a souvenir t-shirt, a finisher’s medal, a goodie bag and refreshments at the finish area. There will be two starting times: the first group will be those age 10-13, followed by children age 6-9. Registration forms are available at Fleet Feet Sports, SportsCom, Patterson Community Center and Barfield Park Office. Online registration and more information may be found on the Kids Fun Run page at www.TheMiddleHalf.com.
"It is going to be so much fun and everyone is welcome….except for tortoises (due to their unfair advantage and secret ninja skills)," said Murph.
Middle Tennessee Medical Center is the presenting sponsor of the event. The City of Murfreesboro, Murfreesboro Parks & Recreation, Fleet Feet Sports, Middle Tennessee State University, Snapple, The Avenue, CB&S Bank, IdeasTees, Purity Dairies, State Farm, The WORX Group, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Emerson Heating Products, Jason’s Deli, Daymar Institute and The Sleep Center are major sponsors. The Daily News Journal, The Murfreesboro Post, Murfreesboro Magazine, WGNS and HobNob Murfreesboro are media sponsors of the race. Special Kids, Inc., will be providing volunteers for Murph’s Fun Run.
Spectators along the course are encouraged to cheer on the runners with signs and music. Admission is free to the MTSU Track and Soccer field where the runners will cross the finish line.
For more information, visit www.TheMiddleHalf.com.
"Murph" signs on as spokesbunny for the Murfreesboro Half Marathon Fun Run
August 31, 2010
"Murph", the beloved rabbit who lives in "Murphry’s Burrow", has signed on as spokesbunny for the Murfreesboro Half Marathon’s Fun Run, newly named "Murph’s Fun Run".
"The race committee searched for a person, or animal, who embodied our mission of health and fitness while having fun" said Melinda Tate, race director. "Murph was the obvious choice, as he is an advocate of helping kids lead a healthy and happy lifestyle."
The one-mile race is open to children ages 6 - 13 and will start immediately after the start of The Murfreesboro Half Marathon at 7 a.m. on October 16. The registration fee is $15 per child. The course begins in the Greenland Drive parking lot at MTSU, goes up and down a portion of Old Lascassas Hwy. and finishes on the track at MTSU’s Dean Hayes Track and Soccer Stadium.
Murph is the host of the national award winning children’s educational television program Adventures in Murphry’s Burrow which airs on the cable access channel City 3. Now in its seventh season, the series is a winning collaboration between Murfreesboro City Schools, City 3, and series creator Nancy Phillips. It airs weekdays at 3:30 p.m., weekends at 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. for the newest episode.
"I am so ‘hoppy’ to be the face of the Murfreesboro Fun Run," said Murph. "Even with the hectic life of a celebrity, I try to stay healthy and to let children know how important it is to eat right and get plenty of exercise. I guess I am the obvious choice for spokesbunny since I run everywhere I go!"
Participants will receive a souvenir t-shirt, a finisher’s medal, a goodie bag and refreshments at the finish area. There will be two starting times: the first group will be those age 10-13, followed by children age 6-9. Registration forms are available at Fleet Feet Sports, SportsCom, Patterson Community Center and Barfield Park Office. Online registration and more information may be found on the Kids Fun Run page at www.TheMiddleHalf.com.
"It is going to be so much fun and everyone is welcome….except for tortoises (due to their unfair advantage and secret ninja skills)," said Murph.
Middle Tennessee Medical Center is the presenting sponsor of the event. The City of Murfreesboro, Murfreesboro Parks & Recreation, Fleet Feet Sports, Middle Tennessee State University, Snapple, The Avenue, CB&S Bank, IdeasTees, Purity Dairies, State Farm, The WORX Group, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Emerson Heating Products, Jason’s Deli, Daymar Institute and The Sleep Center are major sponsors. The Daily News Journal, The Murfreesboro Post, Murfreesboro Magazine, WGNS and HobNob Murfreesboro are media sponsors of the race. Special Kids, Inc., will be providing volunteers for Murph’s Fun Run.
Spectators along the course are encouraged to cheer on the runners with signs and music. Admission is free to the MTSU Track and Soccer field where the runners will cross the finish line.
For more information, visit www.TheMiddleHalf.com.
AIR Promotes Arts In Rutherford County
August 31, 2010
Art is essential. That is the message the new organization called Arts in Rutherford hopes to show the public in the coming years.
AIR was created in light of Rutherford County’s Three-Star program coordinated through the State’s Department of Economic & Community Development. Three Star aims to promote a higher quality of life in Tennessee communities. AIR was created to promote the arts and to educate residents of Rutherford County about the importance and relevance of arts to economic and community development.
The AIR council will serve as an umbrella for all arts groups and those interested in promotion of the arts in the county. The council plans to aid in the continued economic growth of Rutherford County through promotion of, and education about, the visual and performing arts. The council includes representatives from the Business Education Partnership of Rutherford County, the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, local government, arts organizations, businesses, and educational institutions.
“Rutherford County has been a Three-Star community since 2007. Organizations like AIR not only enable our community to access supplementary funding through grants, but also preserve the unique qualities that define Rutherford County,” said Chassen Haynes, Director of Government Affairs & Community Development at the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce
According to national research done by Americans for the Arts, the non-profit arts and culture industry generates $166.2 billion nationally per year. The total economic activity of this industry has a significant national impact, generating 5.7 million full-time equivalent jobs, $104.2 billion in household income, $7.9 billion in local government tax revenues and $9.1 billion in state government tax revenues. The results of this study demonstrates that the nonprofit arts and culture industry is an economic driver in communities—a growth industry that supports jobs, generates government revenue, and is the cornerstone of tourism.
Since September 2009, the AIR council has met to develop a plan to promote the arts in the county though networking, arts education and a central website with information about the many local arts organizations, artists, arts related events and businesses.
For more information about AIR, please contact Lee Rennick at (615) 278-2008.
21st Annual White Oak Craft Fair: September 11-12, 2010
August 31, 2010
Come spend a early fall day in the country at the 21st annual White Oak Craft Fair scheduled from 9:00AM to 5:00PM on Saturday and Sunday, September 11th and 12th, 2010. The White Oak Craft Fair returns for its 21st year, offering something of interest for everybody who delights in items and products that are individually designed and hand crafted. See artists and craft vendors display their beautiful and unique wares along the banks of the East Fork Stones River just down from the Arts Center of Cannon County. Top craft artisans from throughout the region will offer for sale their original textiles, jewelry, woodcarving, metalwork, pottery, photography, chairs, baskets, ironwork, stained glass and much more. Shopping doesn’t get any better than this.
The White Oak Craft Fair will present an enormous variety of work, all of which is chosen for it excellence and integrity by a highly respected selection panel. In an age when mass production makes so many things widely available, the White Oak Crafts Fair celebrates the inspiration and skill of the individual maker as well as being an opportunity to appreciate uniqueness. Although a high percentage of the participants in the show are typically perennial favorites, new exhibitors join the show each year, so there is always something new and fresh for visitors to look forward to.
Come for the shopping or come for the food! “The Kitchen at the Arts Center” will provide traditional southern cooking inside the Arts Center with additional food booths to choose from down on the river. In addition a Children’s Activities Tent will be provided allowing young children (and their parents and grandparents) a chance to re-hydrate, sit down and slow down with special activities planned just for them.
Admission to the fair is FREE with a $2 donation benefiting the local Lion’s Club and The Arts Center. Make your plans now to visit the White Oak Crafts Fair, but be sure that you give yourself plenty of time because you will not want to miss all that this year’s fair has to offer. The 21st Annual White Oak Crafts is sponsored in part by the Cannon Association of Crafts Artists, The Arts Center of Cannon County and The Tennessee Arts Commission. The fair will be at The Arts Center of Cannon County, 1424 John Bragg Highway, just west of the town of Woodbury, approximately 20 minutes from Murfreesboro, Manchester, and McMinnville and one hour southeast of Nashville. Fair hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm both days. For additional information call 615-563-2787 or 1-800-235-9073 or visit our website at www.artscenterofcc.com
Middle Tennessee Athletic Ticket Office expands hours
August 31, 2010
As a result of the interest in Middle Tennessee’s home game with Big Ten foe Minnesota on Thursday night, Athletic Ticket Manager Marco Born has announced extended hours for ticket availability on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
"Ticket sales have picked up dramatically since school started, and the phone lines have been busy all day," said Born. "We felt that we needed to expand our hours to make sure that everyone that wanted to come to the game got the opportunity to buy a ticket."
The main ticket office on Faulkinberry Drive will open at 8:00 am, and close at 6:00 pm on both Tuesday and Wednesday. In addition to the main ticket office, which will open at 8, all stadium ticket booths will also be open on game day, starting at 10 am, to prevent long waits to purchase tickets.
Season tickets may still be purchased as well, but only at the main ticket office, over the phone at 1-888-YES MTSU (937-6878), or online at GoBlueRaiders.com.
Arts in Rutherford County
August 31, 2010
Art is essential. That is the message the new organization called Arts in Rutherford hopes to show the public in the coming years.
AIR was created in light of Rutherford County’s Three-Star program coordinated through the State’s Department of Economic & Community Development. Three Star aims to promote a higher quality of life in Tennessee communities. AIR was created to promote the arts and to educate residents of Rutherford County about the importance and relevance of arts to economic and community development.
The AIR council will serve as an umbrella for all arts groups and those interested in promotion of the arts in the county. The council plans to aid in the continued economic growth of Rutherford County through promotion of, and education about, the visual and performing arts. The council includes representatives from the Business Education Partnership of Rutherford County, the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, local government, arts organizations, businesses, and educational institutions.
“Rutherford County has been a Three-Star community since 2007. Organizations like AIR not only enable our community to access supplementary funding through grants, but also preserve the unique qualities that define Rutherford County,” said Chassen Haynes, Director of Government Affairs & Community Development at the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce
According to national research done by Americans for the Arts, the non-profit arts and culture industry generates $166.2 billion nationally per year. The total economic activity of this industry has a significant national impact, generating 5.7 million full-time equivalent jobs, $104.2 billion in household income, $7.9 billion in local government tax revenues and $9.1 billion in state government tax revenues. The results of this study demonstrates that the nonprofit arts and culture industry is an economic driver in communities—a growth industry that supports jobs, generates government revenue, and is the cornerstone of tourism.
Since September 2009, the AIR council has met to develop a plan to promote the arts in the county though networking, arts education and a central website with information about the many local arts organizations, artists, arts related events and businesses.
For more information about AIR, please contact Lee Rennick at (615) 278-2008.
Alzheimer’s Assoc. Memory Walk Invites Dogs This Year
August 31, 2010
Something new is happening this October at the annual Alzheimer’s Memory walk on the downtown Murfreesboro Square. Memory Walk Chairman Mark Perry told WGNS…
To register for the October 2nd Memory Walk, visit WGNSradio.com
REGISTER HERE: http://www.kintera.org/FAF/home/default.asp?ievent=338689
Taxing Tanning Beds Bad for Local Tanning Bed Stores
August 31, 2010
Tanning salons taxing their customers is a hot topic. A new 60 Minutes/Vanity Fair poll covered the issue in a recent survey. The question was asked, “Is taxing tanning at a salon a good idea?”
Of those who answered, 46% clearly said, “NO.” There are over 10-tanning locations throughout the city of Murfreesboro and according to “All-Tanning-Beds.com“,” they are already working on a narrow profit margin. Some say that a tax on tanning in places like Tennessee would sink the tanning business all together.
All Tanning Beds.com have written on their site, “On average, a tanning salon with eight tanning rooms that is open 6 days a week for 12 hours each day can generate a gross income of $21,000 during the busy season and $14,000 per month the rest of the time.” The site also shows that utility bills, rent, property upkeep and wages cost over $8,500 per month. Keep in mind, taxes are not even factored into those figures. Once we factor existing taxes in and exclude the tax on tanning, tanning salon owners are only taking home about $3,800 per month or $45,600 annually.
Going back to the 60-minutes study, among people ages 18-29, 35 percent said taxing tanning was a bad idea. Seventy-four percent of respondents over the age of 64 also said it would be a bad idea. Taxing customers of tanning salons is part of the federal governments healthcare law.
Rutherford County Sales Going UP – Population Increasing Too
August 31, 2010
July’s heat wave throughout most of the country burned a hole in people’s pockets. How else to explain why Americans’ rate of spending was better than it has been since March of this year?
The Commerce Department reported Monday that consumer spending jumped 0.4 percent last month, a vast improvement from June, when there was no increase. At last study, retail sales in Rutherford County proved to be well over $5-billion dollars annually, that news according to the Tennessee Department of Revenue.
Consumer spending is especially critical to economic growth in the U.S., since it accounts for 70 percent of the gross domestic product. Speaking of growth, 2009 numbers show that just over 255,000 resident live in Rutherford County. The Chamber of Commerce reports on their website that population numbers are expected to hit 297,000 residents by year 2014.
New TN State Troopers Needed
August 31, 2010
The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) has announced it is aggressively seeking men and women who are interested in careers in law enforcement for a new Trooper Cadet Class slated to begin in the spring of 2011, if funds become available. Applications will only be accepted through Friday, September 17, 2010.
In an effort to recruit qualified candidates, the Tennessee Department of Safety invites interested individuals to visit an Informational Session, Friday, September 10, and Saturday, September 11, at the THP Training Center, located at 283 Stewarts Ferry Pike in Nashville. To attend, interested individuals must register online at www.appointment.com/trooper to schedule a two-hour appointment between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Need More Information:
Those interested in and qualified for the position of State Trooper should submit an employment application to the Tennessee Department of Human Resources for approval to take the civil service examination. All applicants must apply online at http://tn.gov/dohr/employment/career.html beginning Thursday, August 26, 2010, through Friday, September 17, 2010. Applications will not be accepted after September 17, 2010. Current applicants on the register will also be required to submit a new application and take the examination.
Recruits are paid while in training. The Trooper Class will last 18 weeks.
For additional information on becoming a State Trooper, visit the Department of Safety website at http://state.tn.us/safety/thp/school.htm
For more information about applications and testing, interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Tennessee Department of Human Resources Applicant Services Division at (615) 741-4841.
False Accusations Cast Against Senator Ketron by Opponent
August 30, 2010
A candidate running against Senator Bill Ketron has issued a press release suggesting that Ketron voted against using $70-million dollars of lottery money for scholarships. Debbie Matthews says that Ketron voted to leave the money in what she calls, “an energy-efficient slush fund.”
According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, the term slush fund dates back to 1839. The word means, “a fund for bribing public officials or carrying on corruptive propaganda.” The dictionary also shows the word can be used, “to signify an unregulated fund often used for illicit purposes.” WGNS looked into Matthews allegations and could not prove any such accusations. Of course, a lot of what happens in politics is a matter of opinion.
Read the Press Release Sent to the Media by Matthews (below):
As students return to Middle Tennessee State University today, their lottery scholarships will be worth less than ever thanks to State Senator Bill Ketron.
“Senator Ketron had the opportunity to put $70 million back where it belongs – in the hands of Tennessee students – and he refused,” said Debbie Matthews, Ketron’s District 13 opponent. “He voted to change light bulbs instead of changing lives.”
This year Ketron voted against returning $70 million to the lottery scholarship fund, instead leaving it in an energy-efficiency slush fund for K-12 schools. Since Ketron cast the deciding vote to take $90 million from lottery scholarships two years ago, only $13 million in energy grants and $3.8 million in loans have been approved.
Meanwhile, MTSU students have to shoulder yet another tuition increase as the lottery scholarship remains unchanged for the fourth straight year. The average tuition at state universities has increased 50 percent over the last eight years, meaning the HOPE scholarship will cover only 63 percent of tuition this year.
Tennessee faces an uphill climb to increase college degrees in order to attract businesses with a highly educated workforce. Currently only 19 out of every 100 Tennessee ninth-graders go on to receive a higher education degree of any kind, placing Tennessee near the bottom of the country in nearly every higher education ranking.
“If we’re going to continue to bring new jobs to Tennessee, we have to increase access to a college education,” Matthews said. “We must put this lottery scholarship money to work for Tennesseans and put Tennesseans back to work.”
UPDATE: Death of Woman in Percy Priest Lake
August 30, 2010
The death investigation into the Middle Tennessee State University graduate who drowned in Percy Priest Lake on August 15th has taken a twist. 25-Year old Holly Nelson, whose body was recovered from the lake a week ago, was evidently hit by a boat propeller. Nelson was on the boat with a group of co-workers who rented the pontoon at Elm Hill Marina in Nashville.
So far, no charges have been filed, but the investigation is ongoing.
Local Jobs and What They Pay
August 30, 2010
The economy continues to struggle, but there are occupations out there that are thriving and growing. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Economic Policy Institute think tank has discovered the five fastest-growing occupations in America from 2006 to 2009. They are:
- Food preparation and serving
- Home health aide
- Warehouse stock clerk
- Medical assistant
- Registered nurse
And now the bad news. According to the Economic Policy Institute, the downside of the list is the fact just one of the occupations — registered nurse — paid a salary above the median wage of $15.95 an hour. RNs on average earn $30.65 an hour. Three of the occupations — food preparation and serving, home health aide and warehouse stock clerk — pay just a bit more than $7.25 an hour.
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