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Investigation continues into death of child hit by unmarked sheriff’s vehicle

The investigation into the death of 11-year old LaKeisha White (left photo) who was hit by an unmarked sheriff’s car on July 17th continues. The special prosecutor handling the case is former Williamson County District Attorney Joe Baugh (see background listed below). According to reliable sources, evidence gathered at the scene shows this to be a tragic accident and no charges have been filed against Detective Ron Killings. In fact, the respected law enforcement officer remains at work and has been assigned to inside duties at the sheriffs office.

CITY MANAGER ROGER HALEY:  A letter from Murfreesboro City Manager Roger Haley to police Sergeant Sam Campbell says, “I question who was actually in charge based on the removal of Sgt. Killings and his vehicle from the scene by personnel of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office”. (see background information below referring to convenience store surveillance video). Haley continued, “The degree of outside influence over a potential crime scene when the scene was the responsibility of the Murfreesboro Police Department should not have occurred. I also find unacceptable the failure to gather and log information and evidence.”

MURFREESBORO POLICE CHIEF GLENN CHRISMAN:  As you recall, on August 8th Chief Glenn Chrisman pulled Campbell from the command position of this investigation when he learned that a bottle containing alcohol had been linked to Detective Killings (left photo) and it was not secured as evidence.

MURFREESBORO POLICE DEPUTY CHIEF RANDY GARRETT:  In another letter, Murfreesboro Police Deputy Chief Randy Garrett recommended that Sergeant Campbell be placed on a 10-day suspension for failing to properly handle evidence and failing to take command of the crash scene. Haley approved that suspension, and in his letter to Sergeant Campbell gave him an unsatisfactory job performance and placed him on 6-months probation. The Murfreesboro city manager made it clear that more severe punishment would be issued if a standard of behavior was not met during this period.

Background: Hopkinsville’s Lakeisha White was visiting her grandmother in Murfreesboro. Shortly before 9:00 o’clock on the evening of July 17th, the 11-year old was walking from her grandmother’s apartment along Bradyville Pike to visit a nearby aunt. She was struck by an unmarked Rutherford County Sheriffs Office vehicle as she reportedly attempted to cross the roadway. Sheriffs Detective Ron Killings was on-duty and driving that vehicle. Family members told police that they saw the driver of the car put two bottles in a nearby trash can. It has not been released whether or not those bottles were in the vehicle’s passenger area or in the trunk. When police did not collect that evidence, members of the deceased girl’s family took the bottles to their attorney who had them analyzed. Reportedly, when they were linked to Detective Killings, their attorney presented that evidence to District Attorney General Bill Whitesell. In addition, surveillance video from a convenience store shows Detective Killing buying non-alcoholic drinks a half-hour after the incident occurred. Reports from an alcohol test that was made later in the evening did not show alcohol as a factor. The family asked that Rutherford County D.A. Whitesell step-down from the case, since he regularly works with the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office and the Murfreesboro City Police. The family asked that a special prosecutor be appointed. Former Williamson County District Attorney Joe Baugh agreed to take the case.

$7.5-million lawsuit: The family filed a $7.5-million lawsuit against Rutherford County, the Rutherford County Sheriffs Office, and Detective Sergeant Ron Killings.  Lakeisha White’s mother is asking for $5-million dollars in the wrongful death suit that was filed Friday, August 8th. In the suit, she ask that her six other children each receive $250-thousand dollars. Witnesses to the crash that include a grandmother and three cousins also seek to be paid $250-thousand dollars each. The suit noted that they were in the danger zone and suffer from observing the tragic event.  

What is the truth:  Conflicting information related to this case continues to be released by various media. Implications are being made without having evidence to back-it-up. And since the case is under investigation, police are unable to release everything about which the media questions. One media reported that the child was hit while riding a bicycle. Police files show the child was walking and darted into the roadway when she was hit by Detective Killings’ vehicle. Other reports say Special Prosecutor Baugh is calling this vehicular homicide, when evidence released at this time does not substantiate that charge. WGNS is attempting to locate a reliable source to confirm this information or prove it to be in error. Please e-mail information and contact data to bart@WGNSradio.com

Oakland, Smyrna, Siegel & MTCS In Football Playoffs

The prep football playoff picture is complete with four Rutherford County teams in the post-season. In Class 5-A, the number one seed Oakland Patriots will host Warren County next Friday night after winning the 4-5A title. Defending two-time state champion Smyrna will host Franklin County and Siegel will travel to Cookeville. WGNS will broadcast the Siegel game on the plateau…the first-ever playoff appearance for the Stars.

Middle Tennessee Christian School is in the playoffs in Single-A for the first time in school history too. They defeated Forrest last Friday night for the last playoff spot in their region. They’ll play at Wayne County.

All playoff football games will begin at 7pm. WGNS will be on the air at 6:30pm next Friday with Siegel at Cookeville.

Donate Food For Needy…Clear Library Fines At Same Time!

Got overdue library fines- and some extra groceries? If so, the Linebaugh Public Library System is offering you an easy way to pay off those overdue fines! And, you will be helping your fellow neighbor too. Last year, patrons of our local library donated nearly 1,400 cans to this food drive!

From Sunday, November 9 through Saturday, November 15, 2008, the Linebaugh Public Library System (Linebaugh Library in Murfreesboro, Myrtle Glanton Lord Library at Patterson Park, Smyrna Public Library in Smyrna, and the Eagleville Bicentennial Public Library in Eagleville) will be collecting food donations. Smyrna’s collection will go to the Smyrna-LaVergne Food Bank. All other sites will collect for The Salvation Army.

Bring your canned goods to the Library Circulation desk, and we will waive your fines for overdue items. Charges for lost or damaged items can not be waived. We will waive one dollar in fines for each can donated to help feed the hungry. Please bring only new, unopened cans within expiration date. No fines? You can make a food donation anyway.

Do I have any fines? How much do I owe? Go to the library’s website (www.linebaugh.org) and choose “review my account”. Enter your library card number and PIN (typically the last six digits of your library card).

Full Election Coverage on Tuesday

Join ABC News Radio beginning at 6pm Tuesday until a presidential winner is decided! Plus, Bart Walker, Bryan Barrett and Jeff Jordan will continually update local races…with TRN providing a statewide prospective. LIVE election coverage Tuesday beginning at 6pm on WGNS and WGNSRadio.com.

Click here to view our local and national election page

Friday Swap’n Shop

For Sale: 1977 Ford F-150; Winchester deer rifle with scope  893-114

For Sale: green tomatoes and turnip greens  893-2463

Lost: heavy green sweater in Scotland and Greenland Drive area  896-3882

For Sale: aluminum Jon boat on trailer (trolling motor, battery)  542-6022

Event: trunk or treat Fosterville-Midland Volunteer Fire Department

For Sale: 1989 GMC pickup $1,000; Yard Sale: 2079 Ghee Road (off Bradyville Pike) Saturday 7AM  971-0127

Yard Sale: 4140 Old Salem Road 8am-4pm on Saturday  217-2982  Lost Dog: in Gresham Lane  area, miniature Jack Russell dog is named “Liberty”  849-5813

For Sale: 1974 Ford pickup; thread mill; 1955 Evinrude boat, motor and power trim $300  785-9307

For Sale: 2 fold-down wire dog pens $15 each (large dogs); brush guard for Ford pickup; electric chain saw  556-3093

For Sale: computer desk, printer (new) but no tower $250 for all with chair and printer stand also  848-6840

For Sale: large George Foreman rotisserie oven $50; iron skillet and soup pot; telephone  890-0707

Free: black walnuts (40-50 gallons)  890-5396

For Sale: rolls of hay  796-0253

Moving Sale: 1911 Atlas Street thru Saturday  809-4591

For Sale: fresh black walnuts (already bagged) $5 per bag  890-4309

Friday Swap’n Shop

For Sale: 1977 Ford F-150; Winchester deer rifle with scope  893-114

For Sale: green tomatoes and turnip greens  893-2463

Lost: heavy green sweater in Scotland and Greenland Drive area  896-3882

For Sale: aluminum Jon boat on trailer (trolling motor, battery)  542-6022

Event: trunk or treat Fosterville-Midland Volunteer Fire Department

For Sale: 1989 GMC pickup $1,000; Yard Sale: 2079 Ghee Road (off Bradyville Pike) Saturday 7AM  971-0127

Yard Sale: 4140 Old Salem Road 8am-4pm on Saturday  217-2982  Lost Dog: in Gresham Lane  area, miniature Jack Russell dog is named “Liberty”  849-5813

For Sale: 1974 Ford pickup; thread mill; 1955 Evinrude boat, motor and power trim $300  785-9307

For Sale: 2 fold-down wire dog pens $15 each (large dogs); brush guard for Ford pickup; electric chain saw  556-3093

For Sale: computer desk, printer (new) but no tower $250 for all with chair and printer stand also  848-6840

For Sale: large George Foreman rotisserie oven $50; iron skillet and soup pot; telephone  890-0707

Free: black walnuts (40-50 gallons)  890-5396

For Sale: rolls of hay  796-0253

Moving Sale: 1911 Atlas Street thru Saturday  809-4591

For Sale: fresh black walnuts (already bagged) $5 per bag  890-4309

Bill Davis Wins Chevy Traverse Competition

Bill Davis, a sales consultant for Alexander Chevrolet Cadillac has won the district “Chevy Traverse Walk Around Competition.” To compete, the sales consultant must present a 15-minute product presentation on the new Chevy Traverse. The presentation includes features, function, benefits and style of the vehicle. The 2009 Traverse is Chevrolet’s brand new, no-compromise crossover vehicle. It has been rated best in class in passenger seating, best in class in towing capacity and best in class in cargo capacity.

Winners in the district competitions will complete in the Nashville Zone competition on November 5^th at the Chevrolet Traverse plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee.

Bill, a native of Murfreesboro, graduated from Riverdale High School in 1982. He jointed the United States Air Force right out of high school and spent the next four years in the service. Bill coached T-ball and baseball in the years after the USAF. He came to Alexander Chevrolet Cadillac from industrial sales in January of this year. Bill and his wife Janet have one son. Janet is the owner of Lemon Up! Salon in Murfreesboro.

Blackman High Teacher Suspended for Alleged Improper Conduct

A Blackman High School teacher has been suspended indefinitely without pay following allegations of improper sexual conduct through electronic communications with at least two female students at the school.

Rutherford County Schools is cooperating with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department while it conducts an investigation into the allegations. The teacher will remain suspended without pay until the conclusion of any criminal proceedings.

The teacher, 36-year old Jason Lancaster, has been with Rutherford County Schools for 15 years. He teaches English at Blackman and previously taught English at Riverdale High School, where he started in 1993. His personnel file shows no prior reprimands or disciplinary actions of any kind.

Director of Schools Harry Gill Jr. suspended the teacher without pay today after learning of the allegations, which is standard procedure in these types of situations.

Lancaster is accused of participating in improper communications of a sexual nature through both text messaging and social Web sites.

NASHVILLE SOUNDS SOLD!

The Nashville Sounds have agreed to be sold. A holding company based in New York, AmeriSports Companies, LLC, have agreed to purchase the Nashville minor league baseball team. The new owners will likely take over operations before next year’s season. AmeriSports has already discussed a lease extension with the Nashville Metro Government for the Greer Stadium. Reports indicate the team will remain in Nashville.

Last day to early vote - RECORD NUMBERS

Today is the last day to early vote for the November 4th presidential election. Reports at this point indicate that over 55,000 people have already voted in Rutherford County. Across the entire state of Tennessee, over 1-million people have headed to the polls. By this evening, the number of early voters will likely increase to over 1.3-million, a number that will surpass the 2004 presidential race of Bush Verses Kerry. Early voting turnout has been the highest in not only Rutherford County but also Williamson and Davidson Counties. Voter turnout has also been extremely high in Shelby County, which is where Memphis, Tennessee is located.
Today, the polls are open from 10-AM to 8-PM at Sports Com, the Agriculture Center inside Old Fort Park, The Election Commission Annex, The Tennessee Rehabilitation Center in Smyrna, and the LaVergne Civic Auditorium. Voting on the Murfreesboro Square in the election office will be open from 7-AM to 8-PM.

Election day is next Tuesday. The polls will be open from 7 in the morning through 7 in the evening.

GUN Sales UP as we near ELECTION DAY

Gun sales across the state of Tennessee have increased. One reason for the increase in sales, a downturn in the economy. Apparently, some residents fear an increase in crime will be the result of an increase in job loss. As far as gun carry permits in the Volunteer state, those too have increased. Since last year, 10-thousand more people have been approved to have a handgun permit. Gun sales have also increased in Florida, Georgia, Texas and even New Mexico.

Speculation also indicates that some people have purchased a handgun in fear of Brrack Hussein Obama being elected and attempting to ban handguns altogether. Interesting enough, the Obama campaign asked broadcasters to quit airing radio and television commercials purchased by the NRA. Here’s an excerpt of that commercial…

2-Pitt Bull attacks over 2-months

Over the past two months, there have been two Pitt Bull Dog attacks in the city limits of Murfreesboro. One attack took place in the area of Lokey and North Church Streets. Evidently, a Consolidated Utility Worker was bit in the leg. The victim was hurt but not seriously injured. This week, a FedEx delivery man was attacked after knocking on a customers door. The FedEx worker was bit in the arm. Like the first case, the worker was hurt, but not seriously injured. The attack occurred on West View Drive. In both cases, information about the dog was recorded by the Murfreesboro Police Department, no citations were issued.

Set clocks BACK 1-hour

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday. That means you will need to move your clocks back by one hour when you head to bed on Saturday. Again, you will move your clocks back by one hour on Saturday night.

GROSS: Things that make people never return to restaurant

The food is just one factor when deciding where to eat. According to a survey of nearly 22 hundred people conducted by SCA Tissue North America, which is a wholesale distributor of tissue products, 29 percent say they would never go back to a restaurant if it had a restroom that was unclean or unsanitary.

Here are the top 10 dirty restroom factors that would prevent restaurant customers from returning:

58% - Overflowing toilets
57% - Unpleasant odors
49% - Slippery/dirty floors with buildup, gum or other residue
38% - Dirty partitions, doors, doorknobs, walls or fixtures
38% - Dirty and wet sinks and countertops
33% - Insufficient toilet paper
31% - Overflowing trash cans
28% - Insufficient liquid soap
22% - Non-working toilet paper dispenser
19% - Management/employees unavailable for reporting problems

Swap and Shop for Thursday (Last Day to Early Vote)

NOTE: Last day to early vote is TODAY! Polls close at 8-PM

For Sale: 1995 F-150and a 2006 28′ Camper, 135lb weight set 893-3382

YARD SALE: Fri. and Sat. starts at 7:30 on 926 Esquire Ct. off Compton Rd. 896-6237

For Sale: Bass guitar with case and amp, wicker furniture and a Plymouth Coupe 1948 - 243-7736

For Sale: Chevy Cavalier for $2,000 and a 1990 Honda Accord - call 653-8090

For Sale: Ipod Nano and Ipod Cuts 556-2692

For Sale: Swingset 596-8795

For Sale: weedeaters and mowers cal;l 893-0680

For Sale: table for behind sofa for $65, WANT - Topsoil to be delivered and mushroom compost 848-0463

For Rent: Near Buchanan School and firewood 895-5746

For Sale: Utility trailer for $800 call 785-6069

For Sale: Antique dinning room table for $1200 call 482-1387

CHURH has quilt prayer ministry - needs sewing machine call 273-2281 or 273-2155

For Sale: Cell phones for $10 a piece 995-2374

Want: WOOD HEATER 907-8710

For Sale: Nursing scrubs, wedding band set and want to sit with sick 563-2081

Yard Sale: Fri, Sat and Sun on 4102 Woodbury 890-2249

5:18AM Wednesday Fire Displaces 10 Persons In Smyrna

Four families were put out in the cold early Wednesday morning (5:18AM; 10/29/08) when fire heavily damaged a four apartment complex at 323 Lake Farm Road in Smyrna. Units from the Smyrna Fire Department were on the scene within minutes. The first responder radioed that flames were coming out from under the eves of the roof as they drove-up. One apartment was almost destroyed, and the unit next door had significant damage. Officials said that some items can be salvaged from the two other apartments. A father and his 11 and 16-year old sons were rushed to Vanderbilt Medical Center. Next door a mother and her 18-month old daughter were taken to StoneCrest Medical Center. Officials at the scene told WGNS News that both families suffered from smoke inhalation and they were taken to the hospital as a safety precaution. The local Red Cross Disaster Assistance Team (DAT) helped with financial assistance, shelter and the necessities of life. Captain Matt Inyart lead the Red Cross team that helped the ten displaced persons.    DAT members included Lee and Catherine Daugherty along with Charlie Clark.

 

Local Red Cross Answered Two Fire Calls Wednesday

The Heart of Tennessee Chapter of the American Red Cross is not a government agency. Assistance is covered strictly by donations from the public. $1,570 in direct financial assistance was given to the victims of the early Wednesday morning fire in Smyrna. In addition to that tragedy, the local Red Cross helped a Tullahoma family of 8 with financial assistance totaling $1,421.50.

If you would like to make a contribution to the local Red Cross, you can mail a check to the local chapter at 836 Commercial Court; Murfreesboro 37129. A secure internet payment can also be made at www.midtnredcross.org.

Arsonist Burns Murfreesboro Policeman’s Truck

Murfreesboro police are investigating the arson of an officer’s truck. Police reports indicate the vehicle was set on fire some time after 11:30 late Monday night (11/27/08).  Officer Tim Jensen said that someone threw two plastic bottles filled with an accelerant into his parked pickup. One bottle was found in the front floor board, and the other was on the floor by the rear seat. The 2007 Ford F-150 pickup was at the Nottingham Apartments on Greenland Drive where Officer Jensen lives. The fire was so hot that it melted the seats. In addition, PIG was scratched on the hood of the burning vehicle. This was not the first-time Officer Jensen’s truck was targeted that day. A few hours earlier, the rear window was broken out. Additional felony charges will be placed, if the arsonist committed the crime to retaliate against Officer Jensen. Assistant Fire Marshal Carl Peas is conducting the arson investigation for the Murfreesboro Fire Department.  If you have heard or seen anything, call CrimeStoppers and remain anonymous.  No one…not even the police will know your identify. And if your tip leads to an arrest and conviction, you are eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.  Phone 893-STOP (7867).

Rutherford County Teacher Awarded $$$

A Rutherford County educator receives a 25-thousand dollar surprise.  WGNS’ Theran (THAIR-en) Nicholas (NICK-oh-les) has more…

Animal Sanctuary’s Fur Ball Raises Hope, But No Money!

The Second Annual Fur Ball to benefit On The Fifth Day Animal Sanctuary was recently held at the Stones River Country Club. Director Jen Flatt Hilsher said, “No money was raised. What was raised was hope. What were made were new friendships.” She noted the organization’s officers and board members were scratching their heads due to the low turn-out until they walked into the parking lot. They discovered a malnourished three-pound tabby. The kitten found a home, which showed them what the night had really been about. Hilsher stated, “We don’t know the plans of our Creator; we just knew we had worked hard and gained nothing financially for the animals that night. Then, as we worked together for Cozy, the true reason for holding the ball on this very evening…” For more information, visit their website www.onthefifthday.org or phone 615-233-5398.

Riverdale to be rezoned

Local high schools will likely see a variety of changes in the upcoming school year. Riverdale High School could be rezoned in a measure that would send students to Blackman and Oakland High Schools. The proposal, that could mean new schools for hundred’s of students, could be approved by January. Currently, there are over 2,300 students at the Warrior Drive school. Oakland and Blackman have less than 2,000-students.

Catalytic converters stolen

The catalytic converter thieves are apparently at it again. Most recently, culprits cut the converter off an Americare Termite and Pest Control truck that was parked on Walnut Street in Murfreessboro. The converter was cut from the vehicle’s exhaust. Several months ago, catalytic converter’s were stolen from trucks parked on MTCS Drive. So far, no suspects have been named in the ongoing problem of catalytic converter thefts.

UPDATE: More yard signs stolen!

More political yard signs have been stolen. A police report was filed in the area of Garrison Cove that indicates a McCain - Palin sign was TAKEN. Oh, here’s the kicker, it was thoughtfully replaced by a dark blue sign that read: O-B-A-M-A.

A 46-year old Murfreesboro man who lives in a home on Maple Street called authorities after unknown persons STOLE his Barack Obama for President yard sign. The sign was in the victim’s front yard. In the downtown area, there are a large number of Obama signs posted on Maple, North Church and North Spring Streets.

State Representative Donna Rowland told officers that 3 of her campaign signs have also been taken. Rowland reports the large wooden signs that were stolen were removed from locations on Cason Lane, Highway 99 at Warrior Drive, and on West Main Street. A white male driving a tan in color Chevy Truck was seen near the signs prior to the thefts.

Halloween on Friday: Let your kids eat all the candy on Friday

Okay, here’s the real deal about what to do with all that Halloween candy your kids collect Friday night.

Nope, getting them to share is not an option.

Knowing that your youngsters will be tempted to eat their candy all at once rather than ration the goodies, a pediatric dentist at Temple University says let him go hog-wild if they want to.

While the thought of a kid downing a pillow case full of Kit Kats and Starburst Fruit Chews may sound crazy to most parents, Dr. MARK HELPIN says it’s better for their teeth in the long run.

No matter what kind of candy they push in their mouths, it creates enamel-corroding acid, which can normally be neutralized by brushing or just letting saliva wash it away.

Helpin says it’s better that they consume as much candy as they want in one sitting rather than rationing it because constant snacking just builds up levels of acid that’s responsible for tooth decay.

Flying in the near future? The best airline is…

Flying is a tricky business these days, but Southwest Airlines is doing its part to make it better. The company dominated SmarterTravel’s Readers’ Choice Awards, which rated the major airlines in the U.S. Nearly 10 thousand people took part in the survey. Here are the results:

Best Overall Value: Southwest Airlines
Best Domestic Airline: Southwest Airlines
Least Favorite Airline: US Airways
Best Airfare Prices: Southwest Airlines

Most Reliable On-Time Service: Southwest Airlines
Best Customer Service: Southwest Airlines

Dirtiest Airline Cabin: US Airways
Best In-Seat Comfort: JetBlue Airways
Best Onboard Entertainment: JetBlue Airways

Best Baggage Service: Southwest Airlines
Best Value International Airline: British Airways

Favorite U.S. Airport:
9.15% - McCarran International, Las Vegas
9.05% - Denver International
7.84% - Hartsfield-Jackson International, Atlanta
6.01% - Washington Reagan National, Washington, D.C.
5.33% - Baltimore/Washington International

Least Favorite U.S. Airport:
20.61% - O’Hare International Airport, Chicago
13.82% - Hartsfield-Jackson International, Atlanta
13.34% - John F. Kennedy International, New York City
10.32% - Los Angeles International
9.14% - LaGuardia, New York City

Swap and Shop for Wednesday

For Sale: 2-Cell phones for $10 ea. 995-2374Free: Kittens 497-1826

For Sale: 1977 Ford F-150 and a Winchester Model 70
Rifle - call 893-1114

For Sale: 2-Yearling Walking Horse Colts 890-4809 ($65)

WANT: Wlec. Range and junk cars - selling min. ponies 563-9844

For Sale: Antique table for behind a sofa $70, WANTED - someone who lives near Franklin Rd. who can do some
bobcat work, selling flowers as well - call 848-0463

For Sale: 1990 Geo Metro and laptop computers, 796-4294

For Sale: upright vaccum for $10 and a deep freeze 896-8346

For Sale: Brand SPANKING New - CALL With price! Childs swing set, boys costume, 904-0910

For Sale: dog houses 274-2998

For Sale: 1974 Shortbed Truck and a thread mill for $200 and a 55- Evinrude - 785-9307

For Sale: Green Tomatoes - 893-2463 (Jones Blvd)

For Sale: 42″ TV for $200 and couch and loveseat $200 713-9900

WANTED: ChipNdale dining room chairs 896-4710

For Sale: 1989 Buick LaSabre (low miles) 890-7943 and selling storm windows

For Sale: Seasoned firewood and want queen size bedroom suite 895-1258

Broadcast Visionary Cal Young Died Monday

This past May, the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters honored Nashville’s Cal Young with its Distinguished Service Award. Young’s willingness to take risks created many of the first radio stations that focused on one audience, which is what most station formats are today. He created one of the first all Black format radio stations in the nation with the old WSOK in Nashville. This station continues the focus created by Young, but with different call letters. It is now WVOL. He also started the first 100 per cent country music station. It was WENO in Nashville. That led to a western theme village where tourists would see cowboy shootouts, stroll through livery stables, ride buggies and more. He was a skilled promoter. A double-deck bus and British taxi was purchased during a trip to England in the 1970’s. Those along with numerous WENO trailers parked on hillsides, a caboose trailer from which remote broadcasts originated…all clearly displayed WENO/1430. Young even had several giant carbon arc searchlights that he used in conjunction with remote radio broadcasts. After that he built a string of country music stations in Memphis, Birmingham, New Orleans, and Augusta. Cal Young got into television for a short time in 1962 when he purchased channel 22 in Los Angeles and started the first 100 per cent African-American format TV station. In an interview with the late Dr. Linnel Gentry of Murfreesboro, Young said, “Always work hard at any job you attempt, but at some time in your life attempt what you want, if at all possible.” (Photo L-R:  Earlier Award Recipient Bill Barry presents the award to his friend Cal Young on May 3, 2008 at the TAB’s 60th Anniversary Celebration in Nashville’s Millennium Maxwell House Hotel)

86-year old H. Calvin Young passed away Monday, October 27, 2008. He is survived by his wife Joan Henshaw Young. Also by his daughter Babs Behar, and sons Jay and his wife Barbra, Chuck and his wife Deborah, step-children Jerry Moore and his wife Gina and Jeanne Talley and her husband Mike, along with 5 grandchildren and a great grandchild.

Funeral arrangements: Woodlawn Funeral Home (660 Thompson Lane in Nashville).  Visitation from 4:00-7:00PM on Wednesday, October 29, 2008.  A second visitation will be held one-hour prior to the funeral.  Services will be at 11:30 Thursday morning, October 30, 2008 at Woodlawn Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the Historic Carnton Plantation; 1325 Carnton Lane, Franklin, TN 37064.

Domestic Violence…Man Jailed

According to reports filed by the Murfreesboro Police Department, on Sunday (10/26/08) officers responded to a 10-86 (domestic call) at an apartment on South Rutherford Boulevard. Brittney Megan Crownover’s roommate told Officer James Thomason that she walked-in and saw William Michael Tyler get off her and run away. The victim told police that Tyler held her to the floor and choked her. She also related that in a moment of rage, the man poured a bottle of cleaning agent into her aquarium and killed several fish. Officers located Tyler and booked him in the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center. He is scheduled to appear in general sessions court on November 20th. WGNS News will keep you informed.

Johnny L. McGowen, Jr. Appeal Denied

Johnny L. McGowen, Jr. petitioned the Tennessee Court of Appeals to overturn his 1994 conviction. On Tuesday (10/28/08) his request was turned-down and McGowen remains in the slammer. According to court records, on January 24, 1994, he pled guilty to aggravated arson, arson as well as vandalism. The former Rutherford County resident was sentenced to 20-years in prison. Judges Jerry L. Smith and Robert W. Wedemeyer reviewed the facts. Appeals Court Judge David H. Welles ruled that state law requires that a request for such an appeal must be made within a year after the ruling is made. That meant this appeal was more than a dozen years late, since it should have been filed prior to Januuary 24, 1995. The court also agreed that Circuit Court Judge James Clayton was correct when he dismissed the original petition that called for post-conviction relief as time-served.  

5th Grade Teacher Trey Duke Receives $25,000

On Tuesday morning (10/28/08) there was standing room only in the gym at Smyrna’s Stewarts Creek Elementary School. The excited students, educators, parents and community leaders sat quietly, because this was a surprise party for a fifth grade teacher. It turned out to be more than that, since Trey Duke was presented the Milken National Educator Award. Tennessee’s Education Commissioner Timothy Webb gave the distinguished award that honor outstanding classroom teachers who also serve as mentors to their peers. The honor came with another surprise; $25-thousand! The Milken Award was created to encourage outstanding classroom teachers as well as leaders who act as mentors to other educators. Again–congratulations to Stewart Creek fifth grade teacher Trey Duke, winner of the prestigious Milken National Education Award.

Obama signs STOLEN / Rowland signs STOLEN

A 46-year old Murfreesboro man who lives in a home on Maple Street called authorities after unknown persons STOLE his Barack Hussein Obama for President yard sign. The sign was in the victim’s front yard. In the downtown area, there are a large number of Obama signs posted on Maple, North Church and North Spring Streets. To date, no John Sydney McCain signs have been taken.

State Representative Donna Rowland told officers that 3 of her campaign signs have also been taken. Rowland reports the large wooden signs that were stolen were removed from locations on Cason Lane, Highway 99 at Warrior Drive, and on West Main Street. A white male driving a tan in color Chevy Truck was seen near the signs prior to the thefts.

FIRE: Home possible total loss, burns quickly - 40-minutes

There was a fire at 726 Buford Street in Smyrna just after 11:00, Tuesday morning. Firefighters choose not to enter the residence in fears of too much oxygen entering the home, potentially causing an explosion. Evidently, it was believed that no one was home when the blaze started. Property records show the house is owned by James Peplinski. Firemen reported from the scene at 11:34-AM that a hot spot and possible fire accelerant was found as the fire was being fought. The home is believed to be a total loss.

REPORT: Fire under control at 11:40 AM
LOCATION: Buford at Bragg Ave.

Tuesday Swap’n shop

For Sale: CB radio; gas power blower and weed eater  893-0680

For Sale: toddler Little Tyke bed $150 for both (fire truck and the other is a doll house bed) with new mattress  308-1082

For Sale: cell phone (pay as you go) $10 (includes charger)  995-2374

For Sale: 1974 Ford short-bed pickup truck (needs motor work); thread mill $200  785-9307

For Sale: 135 pound weight set  893-3382

For Sale: language translator $100; Sear’s 12-volt drill $30; stainless steel sink and sprayer  809-5359

For Sale: Beagles (hunting dogs); Murray riding mower 36-inch cut $200; 439-8846

For Sale: mixed firewood $45 per rick  893-3217

For Sale: old Denim Daze $20 per set  896-2867

Moving Sale: 7AM Thu-Sat @ 1911 Atlas St.  809-4591

For Sale: 1967 Ford Mustang (needs to be restored); large wooden doghouse $35  202-7140

Wants: goo9d used car; Play Station II  893-6515

For Sale hickory and oak wood $50/rick (delivered and stacked)  796-7215

For Sale: Hoover upright vacuum; Service: will do odd jobs (painting, yard work, etc.) 896-8346

For Sale: catering items (cake decorating things) 40 plates for stacking, columns (6-inchs to 18-inches), chocolate fountain $125 for it all  848-0463

Plot to kill Obama and behead school children disrupted by Nashville ATF Office

Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms have arrested two men in Tennessee, who are also alleged to have plotted to kill Sen. Barack Hussein Obama and 102 black people.

Twenty-year-old DANIEL COLWART and 18-year-old PAUL SCHLESSELMAN have been charged with possessing an unregistered firearm, conspiring to steal firearms, and threatening a presidential candidate.

Former FBI Special Agent Brad Garrett says the threat is a real one, even if the men were incapable of executing it:

Garrett says white supremacists pose a real threat to America, even if they’re not well organized:

JIM CAVANAUGH, special agent in charge of the ATF’s Nashville field office, said that the alleged skinheads were going to rob a gun store and then go to a predominantly black high school, where they planned to shoot 88 African-American students and behead 14 others.

The number 14/88 is a code used by white supremacist organizations. There are 14 words in the phrase, quote, “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children,” while “88″ is an abbreviation for “Heil Hitler.”

Cavanaugh said that the two suspects wanted to make killing Obama their final act, adding, quote, “They didn’t believe they would be able to do it, but that they would get killed trying.”

Man accused of exposing himself - 4-prior run-in’s

A 38-year old Murfreesboro man was arrested after a witness notified police they saw someone naked from the waist down in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Cory Blake Richmond told officers that he was pleasuring himself prior to their arrival. Evidently, this was not the first time that Richmond had gotten in trouble for exposing himself. Records show he was arrested on at least 4-previous occasions. Richmond told officers he had a problem… his problem will land him before a judge on November 20th. The Bartway Drive Resident was charged with indecent exposure and placed under a $13-thousand dollar bond.

Exchange Club of R’ford Co. shows patriotic pride

The upcoming Rutherford County Christmas Parade is nearing. This year, the parade will be on Sunday, December the 14th. It will begin at 1 at the corner of East Main and Middle Tennessee Blvd. Don Wright, a volunteer with the Noon Exchange Club, told us the parade gives him a chance to be patriotic.

The Exchange Club’s of Rutherford County hand out small American flags to children lining the Christmas Parade route each and every year.

The deadline to register to be in the parade is December the 1st.

From Books to Birth - Elegant Event at new conference center

Rutherford County From Books to Birth will hold a black tie optional dinner and dance this Saturday night at the new Embassy Suites Hotel in Murfreesboro. Music at the elegant event is being provided by the Tennessee Valley Winds and specially invited guest included Governor Phil Bredesen and Mr. John Q. Hammons, the owner of the new hotel and conference center.

Still Undefeated: Titans 31 - Colts 21

The Tennessee Titans are the only NFL team that still has a perfect record. Former UT favorite Peyton Manning couldn’t even stop the winning Titans. In fact, the Titan’s Kerry Collins outplayed Manning. He threw 193 yards with no interceptions. The Titan’s 7-0 win-loss record now places them in the lead of the AFC South. This marks the second best winning streak in the franchise’s history. Let’s see, how do you spell Super Bowl? Does it start with a T?

LaVergne: Current and past codes directors die within a day of each other.

LaVergne’s Public Works Director Chad Bowman died Sunday (10/26/08) of injuries he received last week in a motorcycle accident. Ironically, the man he replaced died a day later. Former Public Works Director Bob Burns passed away early Monday (10//27/08) from long-term health issues. LaVergne’s Mayor Ronnie Erwin visited Burns and his family at Vanderbilt Hospital about a half-hour before he died. The past few months have dealt blows to LaVergne’s government. In addition to the deaths the past two days by Chad Bowman and Bob Burns, that city’s Codes Director Steve Poe died in August.

World Outreach thanked community with festival

Some estimate that 15-thousand people were in attendance others say 20-thousand people showed up at World Outreach Church on Sunday for the fall festival “Hoedown.” The event was totally free and children from all over Rutherford County enjoyed a variety of inflatable moonwalks and slides. Children and adults also climbed rock walls, that were sponsored by the National Guard, ate free cotton candy and won free cakes on the World Outreach Cake Walk. The church on the corner of the New Salem Highway and Barfield Road says the event is a gift to the community.

Who are YOU voting for, WHY?

Early voting throughout Rutherford County is loosing the momentum that we saw earlier this month. Today, you can likely vote after standing in line for as little as 2-minutes at some locations, depending on where you choose to cast a ballot. Early voting will end this week and election day is next Tuesday.

Some residents have told us that their decision on who to vote for in the presidential race is solely based on faith. When asked why, the answer we received was that Senator Obama was fully supportive of abortion Read more

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