Dewjuan Henderson In “Critical Condition” After Shooting At Saturday Afternoon Traffic Stop
July 31, 2010
Around 4:15 Saturday afternoon (7/31/2010), two males were shot in an exchange of gunfire between sheriff’s deputies and Murfreesboro Police officers. It started when a deputy made a traffic stop of a pickup truck on the Joe B. Jackson Parkway near the Manchester Highway. Details are sketchy at this time, but the deputy called for back-up when the driver allegedly aimed a weapon at the deputy.
Dewjuan Henderson In Critical Condition
Several Murfreesboro Police officers and Rutherford County Sheriff’s deputies quickly converged on the scene. The Tennessee Bureau of Identification (TBI) is conducting the investigation after Dewjuan Henderson and an unnamed passenger were hit in an exchange of gunfire. The deputy allegedly told Henderson to drop his weapon, and reportedly that did not occur. It has not been divulged who fired the first shot, but Henderson was flown by LifeFlight helicopter to the Trauma Center at Vanderbilt Hospital with wounds to his head and hand. He is listed in critical condition. The other male was taken to the ER at Middle Tennessee Medical Center with what is described as non-life threatening injuries.
Total Of 4 People In Truck
Reports indicate that the 25-year old suspect who pointed the gun at the deputy, allegedly had used cocaine prior to the incident. In addition to the two injured suspects, two additional passengers were in the vehicle. At this time, the names of the officers nor of the truck passenger who received minor injuries have been released. As many as three city officers and two deputies were believed to have been at the scene when the shooting occurred. The Joe B. Jackson Parkway was closed to traffic for several hours Saturday night while the TBI gathered evidence, made measurements and completed an in-depth study of the scene.
Power In Historic District Out 2-Hours Saturday…WE’RE BACK!
July 31, 2010
A heavy storm with high winds and torrential rain passed through the ‘Boro in the 2:00 to 3:00 o’clock hour Saturday afternoon (7/31/10). That brought scattered outages which kept Murfreesboro Electric crews busy. And with the electricity off, traffic signals were inoperative—thus police were physically directing traffic in the downpour. Then the sun came out and all was well. Almost that is—unless you have a business or home in the historic district. With the sun shining, power went out in the historic district around 3:30. A spokesperson at Murfreesboro Electric told WGNS that the earlier storm caused limbs to fall on power lines, along with lightning strikes—and evidently it was more than the system could stand.
Electric Crews Worked 2-Hours To Restore Power
Crews worked feverously and two-hours later the electric department had the power restored. The emergency telephone operator at the utility office indicated that the outage was scattered, but large. It was 5:30 Saturday afternoon at that time and baseball fans were delighted to hear the Braves’ game was still going. Unfortunately, the power outage didn’t help the Braves. In the game from Cincinnati, Cinergy field lived up to its name.
Where Are People Cutting Corners to Save Money?
July 31, 2010
With the economy still struggling, people are doing what they can to make ends meet. More than 2,200 Americans over the age of 18 took part in a Harris survey asking how they are saving money. Here are the results:
* 65% buy more generic brands than name brands.
* 40% have switched to refillable water bottles instead of buying bottles of water.
* 38% make less frequent trips to the hairdresser.
* 24% don’t bring as much clothing to the dry cleaners.
* 48% bring their own lunch to work.
* 22% have stopped buying a morning cup of coffee.
* 12% carpool or take mass transit to get to work.
* 31% have canceled at least one magazine subscription.
* 22% have canceled or decreased cable television service.
* 17% have canceled a newspaper subscription.
* 15% have canceled their land line phone and only use cell phones.
* 15% have changed or canceled cell phone service.
Blue Raider Supporters PAINTED THE TOWN BLUE on Saturday!
July 31, 2010
The tried and true Blue Raider ranks met around 9:30 Saturday morning (7/31/2010) at the Kenon Sports Hall of Fame. Each took an MTSU football player, stack of wall poster schedules, table tents as well pockets schedules to distribute to area businesses and their customers.
Bart talks with Coach Stockstill
Coach Rick Stockstill (above photo) gave a pep talk before everyone left to canvass the community and PAINT THE TOWN BLUE! (Below photo) MTSU’s Interim Marketing Director Marc Borg explains the day’s goal and gives suggestions on ways to efficiently distribute the material.
The PAINT THE TOWN BLUE event was also an opportunity to update your Blue Raider wardrobe. Here (L-R below) Ideas’ owner John Brockwell shows Blue Raider alum and community leader Tommy Campbell some of the new items that are available at both Lightning’s Locker Room as well as at Idea’s.
Murfreesboro Street Closures For Week of August 2, 2010
July 31, 2010
Here is a report on road closures here in the ‘Boro for the coming week (starting Monday, August 2, 2010). This data is furnished to WGNS’ listeners by Murfreesboro Traffic Engineer Ram Balachandran.
Closures for the week beginning August 2, 2010
Leaf Avenue Storm Drain Improvement Project
All remaining work is on Leaf Avenue
State Street Sewer Replacement Project
Project completed and the road is opened to traffic
Manson Pike/Fortress Blvd Realignment Project
Expected No Lane Closures: The work entails relocating the intersection of Manson Pike and Fortress Blvd further south along Fortress Blvd and re-aligning Gresham Lane to tie-in with the new intersection. Work continues with no lane closures.
Fortress Blvd Widening Project (Between Blaze Drive and the new Manson/Fortress Intersection)
Expected Lane Closures: The traffic has been reduced to two lanes (one lane each direction) on Fortress Blvd between Blaze Drive and Chippewa Place. The work entails the widening Fortress Blvd from a three lane curb and gutter street to a five lane curb and gutter street with bike lanes and sidewalks. Work also includes adding a right turn lane of Blaze Drive adjacent to the elementary school. Work continues with no lane closures.
Cason Lane (between Old Fort Parkway and Amber Glen Drive)
Expected Lane Closures: Monday, August 2 through Saturday, August 7, 9 AM – 4 PM: There will be lane closures, traffic shifts and traffic interruptions on Cason Lane for paving and striping operations.
Saint Andrews Drive (between New Salem Highway and Kimbro Wood Subdivision)
Project completed
Armstrong Valley Road (between New Salem Highway and City Limits)
Project completed
Annual City Street Paving Project
Expected Lane Closures: Monday, August 2 through Friday, August 6, 9 AM – 4 PM: City paving contractor will be milling and paving the following streets (Scotland Dr, Whitehall Rd, Halifax Ct, Hanover St, Brown Dr and Raleigh Ct and Kingwood Dr). Expect lane shifts and traffic interruptions during the milling and paving operations.
Medical Center Parkway Bridge over CSXT Railroad
Project completed
Obrien Drive Sewer Construction Project (Between Bradyville Pike and Winston Place)
Expected Lane Closures: For the next two months, August through September, Monday through Friday, 9AM – 3:30 PM: Murfreesboro Water and Sewer Department will be replacing the sewer main along Obrien Drive between Bradyville Pike and Winston Place. There will be lane shifts and road closures on Obrien Drive. Detours signs and appropriate traffic controls will be in-place. The road will be opened to local traffic only and the property owners on Obrien Drive have been notified.
Today is LAST DAY to take advantage of lower registration fee for Middle Half!
July 31, 2010
This is just one last reminder that you’ve just got 2 more days to register before the price increases at 12:00 a.m Sunday, August 1. We’re averaging 35 sign-ups a day, and as of this morning we’ve got just 350 spots left! Register Online Mail-In Forms (forms received after the cap is reached will be returned; Online registration or dropping form off at Fleet Feet Sports is recommended). Watch for more emails the next few months, and be sure to check the website and/or Facebook page frequently for exciting new additions to this year’s event!
Date: Saturday October 16, 2010
Time: 7:00 a.m.; Wheelchair start at 6:55; Fun Run immediately after Half Marathon Start
Confirm Registration
If you registered and didn’t receive an email confirmation, it may have be sent to a spam folder, or your email address was entered incorrectly. Click here if you’d like to make sure your registration went through. You can also find out who is coming from your city by leaving off a first and last name when you search. Hint: make sure you enter the information EXACTLY like you did when you registered…even if you misspelled the city name.
Host Hotel
Embassy Suites Murfreesboro
Embassy Suites is offering a fantastic special price of $99/night for race participants. If you’ve ever stayed there, you know how nice, quiet and spacious the rooms are! Just off the interstate, it’s within walking distance to shopping at The Avenue and is just up the road from Fleet Feet Sports and many wonderful restaurants, including Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Que and Jason’s Deli (two of our event sponsors!)
Located just 12 minutes from the race start and finish (MAP)
Free breakfast
Free evening Manager’s Reception
Free shuttle to/from race
Deadline for discount: September 23, 2010.
Registration Reminders
The Murfreesboro Half Marathon does not offer refunds if you get hurt or can not participate for any reason. ONLY EXCEPTION: if you accidentally sign up twice, we will refund the latest registration.
There are no waiting lists, but some of our charity partners may have spots available after we reach the 2,250-runner limit.
If you are unable to participate, you can still pick up your shirt and goody bag during regular Packet Pickup days and times, or you may have a friend pick them up for you if you provide them with a copy of your ID and a note. DO NOT give your bib number and timing device to someone else to use on race day.
Pasta Dinner
The chefs at Maple Street Grill
are preparing a special pasta dinner Friday evening, October 15. Carbo-load with fellow runners in a relaxing atmosphere on the historic downtown square in Murfreesboro. Plenty of easy-to-find parking, and the food is scrumptious!
If you did not purchase tickets during the registration process, it’s not too late. Send a check to: Murfreesboro Half Marathon, ATTN: Pasta Party, PO Box 11985, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. Each ticket is $12, and there are a limited number available.
Walkers
The Murfreesboro Half Marathon welcomes runners and walkers, but we require that every participant maintain at least a 15-minute/mile pace, which is a brisk walk, up to Mile 6. Why? In order to conduct the race, we promised city officials that downtown streets would reopen 90 minutes after the race starts*. Anyone not able to keep this pace will have an opportunity to ride back in a race shuttle bus to the start area. (*And yes, we start counting when the last runner crosses the start line, to make it fair)
Runners will line up at the Start area by estimated finishing time. Look for the sign with your estimated finish time (2:30, 3:00, Walkers, etc.) Faster runners will be in the front; walkers will line up in the back. Lining up in this manner keeps faster runners from zig-zagging around slower participants, thus preventing possible injuries at the beginning of the race.
Technical Race Shirts
Most of you know, our race shirts ROCK! Because we order the exact size that you ordered, no exchanges are available until after Packet Pickup at 6:30 a.m. on race day. At this time, we may have shirts that were not picked up, and you may swap shirts from the sizes that are available. The shirt booth will also be available at the post-race area.
A limited number of "vintage" technical shirts (from past races) will be offered free at Packet Pickup when you make a small donation to The Murfreesboro Half Marathon. Be sure to bring your checkbook…other items will also be available.
Training
There’s still time to get help with your training! Check these out:
Run for A Cause with one of our Charity Partners
Half Marathon Training Program by Fleet Feet Sports, Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro Parks & Rec Training Program
Blue Raider classroom performance recognized by Sun Belt Conference
July 31, 2010
NEW ORLEANS - Middle Tennessee placed a combined 137 student-athletes on the latest Sun Belt Conference academic lists, as announced by the league office Wednesday. Sixty-four Blue Raiders earned a spot on the Commissioner’s List for having at least a 3.5 GPA, while 73 MT athletes garnered recognition on the Academic Honor Roll with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.49 during the 2009-10 academic year.
"We are very excited about the academic success our student-athletes achieve on an annual basis. It starts with their commitment to excellence in all areas," Director of Athletics Chris Massaro said. "Our coaches also do an outstanding job recruiting student-athletes who not only succeed on the field or court, but also in the classroom."
Soccer set the pace for Middle Tennessee student-athletes on the Commissioner’s List with 12, just ahead of nine by both baseball and football. Women’s track and field/cross country had eight members of its squad represented.
Football led the Blue Raider Academic Honor Roll recipients with 21, followed by 12 from baseball and six each by soccer and softball.
"It is great for the system as a whole," Director of the Student-Athlete Enhancement Center Todd Wyant said. "When you look at the entire program with the success we have had by winning the Bubas Cup, we are definitely proving we can do it athletically, but it is also nice to see we can do it academically. It shows we have a complete program.
"The student-athletes need to be commended for their efforts in the classroom. The support we get from the coaches and the faculty, along with the expectations of Mr. Massaro, we have an all-around strong program, which means in the classroom along with on the field or court."
Overall, the Sun Belt set a conference record with 1,710 student-athletes from all 13 institutions on the two lists, raising the bar for the fourth-consecutive year. Seven hundred ninety-five were tabbed to the Commissioner’s List, while 915 were selected for the Academic Honor Roll. The record 1,710 student-athletes tops the previous mark, set in 2008-09, by 10.
2009-10 Sun Belt Conference Commissioner’s List (3.5+ GPA)
BASEBALL (9) Tyler Acker Junior Physical Education
Hunter Dawson Senior Construction Management
Zach Hudson Senior Special Education
Justin Jones Graduate Health, Physical Ed & Rec
Alex McClure Junior Organizational Communication
Blake McDade Senior Liberal Studies
Kenneth Roberts Senior Physical Education
Will Skinner Junior Liberal Studies
Jud Stoltz Junior Biochemistry
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL (3) Brandi Brown Graduate Business Administration
Alysha Clark Graduate Special Non Degree Seeking
Jackie Pickel Senior Interdisciplinary Studies
FOOTBALL (9)
Jeremiah Black Sophomore English
David DeFatta Graduate Engr Tech & Industrial Studies
Gene Delle Donne Senior Health Education
Jeremy Kellem Senior Organizational Communication
Jamal Lewis Senior Liberal Studies
Jeremy Michel Senior Business Administration
Phillip Tanner Senior Liberal Studies
Spencer Wise Freshman Undeclared
Adam Wood Senior Physical Education MEN’S GOLF (2)
Kent Bulle Senior Physical Education
Andrew Green Senior Psychology
WOMEN’S GOLF (3)
Stephanie Gough Sophomore Geoscience
Morgan Hale Junior Nutrition & Food Science
Clara Leathers Senior Geoscience
SOCCER (12)
Paige Goeglein Freshman Undeclared
Emily Harris Junior Sociology
Whitney Jorgenson Freshman Health Education
Laura Lamberth Sophomore Physical Education
Sarah Beth Lee Senior History
Luisa Moscoso Sophomore Economics
Vanessa Mueggler Junior Marketing
Alyssa Palmacci Freshman Nursing
Elisabeth Sikes Sophomore Undeclared
Emily Snowdon Junior English
Allison Stallard Freshman Undeclared
Jen Threlkeld Senior Mass Communication
SOFTBALL (4)
Kelsey Dortch Senior Physical Education
Caty Jutson Sophomore Mass Communication
Caitlin McLure Senior Special Education
Lindsey Vander Lugt Senior Interdisciplinary Studies MEN’S TENNIS (2)
Richard Cowden Senior Psychology
Matthew Langley Sophomore Physical Education
WOMEN’S TENNIS (4)
Marietta Bigus Sophomore Information Systems
Alex Dachos Sophomore Undeclared
Carla Nava Sophomore Finance
Yuiri Nomoto Freshman Physical Education
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD/XC (5)
Philip Benavides Senior Business Administration
David Boiywo Freshman Biology
Jarell Dorsey Sophomore Criminal Justice Admin
Phillip Tanner Senior Liberal Studies
Andrew Wagner Freshman Aerospace
WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD/XC (8)
Kayla Bryan Sophomore Criminal Justice Admin
Ashley Comstock Senior Health Education
Amber Kassuba Freshman Physical Education
Rispah Sang Freshman Biology
Zamzam Sangau Senior Interdisciplinary Studies
Stephanie Smith Freshman Political Science
Caroline Tanui Freshman Mathematics
Kristen Tithof Sophomore Biology
VOLLEYBALL (3)
Izabela Kozon Junior Psychology
Morgan Peterson Freshman Undeclared
Halie Vannoy Sophomore Finance
2009-10 Sun Belt Conference Academic Honor Roll (3.0-3.49 GPA)
BASEBALL (12) Hunter Adkins Freshman Undeclared
Chad Edwards Senior Agribusiness
Ryan Ford Freshman Undeclared
Eric Gilley Junior Liberal Studies
Justin Guidry Sophomore Mathematics
Brandon Hall Freshman Undeclared
Dalton Henzman Freshman Concrete Industry Management
Joey McClung Sophomore Undeclared
Marshall Mears Senior Recording Industry
Stuart Meinhart Senior Marketing
Paul Mittura Freshman Engineering Technology
Davis Pearce Junior Liberal Studies MEN’S BASKETBALL (5) Zane Gibson Freshman Undeclared
Jason Jones Sophomore Undeclared
Calvin O’Neil Senior Health Education
James Washington III Senior Liberal Studies
DeMario Williams Sophomore Undeclared WOMEN’S BASKETBALL (3) Dana Garrett Senior Health Education
Anne Marie Lanning Junior Physical Education
Emily Queen Junior Physical Education
FOOTBALL (21) Jared Bamber Junior Physical Education
Colin Boss Junior Liberal Studies
Jamar Brown Junior Management
Danny Carmichael Senior Physical Education
Nicholas Coleman Graduate Health, Physical Ed & Rec
Antwan Davis Junior Criminal Justice Admin
Marquise Dixon Freshman Undeclared
Mark Fisher Senior Biology
Jesse Grisham Freshman Undeclared
Chris Hawkins Senior Concrete Industry Management
Rod Issac Junior Organizational Communication
Tavarres Jefferson Freshman Undeclared
Logan Kilgore Sophomore Business Administration
Kennedy McGruder Sophomore Marketing
William Pratcher Freshman Undeclared
Jamal Ramsey Freshman Physical Education
Stephen Roberts Freshman Art
Alex Suber Graduate Health, Physical Ed & Rec
Nate Toulson Junior Liberal Studies
Adam Wade Senior Physical Education
Tyler Watson Freshman Management MEN’S GOLF (1) Dane Voss Sophomore Physical Education
WOMEN’S GOLF (2) Karisa Akin Sophomore Undeclared
Ashley Haggard Freshman Marketing SOCCER (6) Charity Blair Sophomore Nutrition & Food Science
Jenna Bowers Sophomore Science
Jaimee Cooper Senior Nutrition & Food Science
Rebecca Cushing Sophomore Business Administration
Emily Hancock Sophomore Athletic Training
Hope Suominen Senior Psychology SOFTBALL (6) Jessica Couch Junior Biology
Kristi Marquez Freshman Undeclared
Kailey McDougald Sophomore Science
Janele Robinson Freshman Recording Industry
Abbey Sanders Sophomore Undeclared
Kandra Singleton Junior Management MEN’S TENNIS (3) Victor Melo Sophomore Finance
Shaun Waters Freshman Construction Management
Kyle Wishing Junior Finance WOMEN’S TENNIS (1) Taylor Coffey Sophomore Physical Education MEN’S TRACK & FIELD/XC (3) Michael Harris Sophomore Accounting
DeRay Sloss Senior Liberal Studies
William Songock Senior Nursing WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD/XC (5) Marla Bailey Junior Accounting
Sarah Nambawa Senior Liberal Studies
Cherice Robertson Senior Liberal Studies
Alissa Ruggle Freshman Biochemistry
Jackline Serem Sophomore Nursing VOLLEYBALL (5) Leslie Clark Senior Interdisciplinary Studies
Sasha McGlothin Senior Liberal Studies
Ashley Waugh Senior Biology
Courtney Wilson Sophomore Physical Education
Alyssa Wistrick Junior Liberal Studies
14-Year Old Shoots 14-Year Old – One Teen Dead
July 30, 2010
NASHVILLE NEWS: Metro detectives in Nashville arrested 14-year-old Donquise Alexander on a charge of criminal homicide for the July 8th fatal shooting of 14-year-old Vincent Lewis outside an apartment building at 1611 6th Avenue North.
Three weeks of continuous investigation by Detective Robert Anderson and his colleagues, which included numerous interviews, led to the identification of Alexander as the suspected gunman. Upon learning of last evening’s issuance of a Juvenile Court arrest order, Alexander’s mother surrendered her son to detectives at 11 p.m.
The investigation into the homicide is continuing. Robbery may have been a motive.
Pictured: Donquise Alexander
TN Army National Guard Specialist Eddie Lowe Reunited With Wife
July 30, 2010
Tennessee Army National Guard Specialist Eddie Lowe, of Murfreesboro, is reunited with his wife, Ashley, and young son, Ty, upon arriving Thursday in Smyrna with other soldiers of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment. The 3,400 soldiers of the 278th, who mobilized in December of 2009, are coming home from Iraq six months earlier than expected. Units began returning in mid-June and have continued each week. (Photo: Nate Crawford, National Guard Public Affairs)
STATE ARCHIVISTS HEAD TO RUTHERFORD COUNTY IN SEARCH OF CIVIL WAR MEMORABILIA
July 30, 2010
Representatives from the Tennessee State Library and Archives and the Tennessee State Museum will be in Murfreesboro August 6 to record and digitize Civil War memorabilia owned by local residents for a new exhibit.
Archivists will be at the Rutherford County Archives, 435 Rice Street in Murfreesboro, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. that day. During that time, they invite area residents to bring in photographs, documents and other artifacts related to the Civil War.
Individuals may call (615) 253-3470 or e-mail civilwar.tsla@tn.gov to schedule a reservation with the archivists. Reservation forms and available times may be found on the State Library and Archives’ section of the Department of State website at http://tn.gov/tsla/cwtn/events.htm.
The archivists will scan or take digital photographs of the materials, some of which will be featured in an upcoming exhibit titled, “Looking Back: The Civil War in Tennessee.” The archivists will not actually take possession of the items from their owners.
“This is an important project for the Tennessee State Library and Archives,” Secretary of State Tre Hargett said. “The Civil War was a major event in our state’s history so we need to take appropriate steps to make sure these treasures are properly preserved for future generations.”
Attendees at the event will receive copies of the digital photographs and tips on how to preserve their Civil War memorabilia.
Archivists plan to visit all 95 of Tennessee’s counties in search of material for the exhibit, which will commemorate the Civil War’s 150th anniversary.
Unbelievable Local Sports Season is Upon Us
July 30, 2010
Local sports fans, it’s here. Football season is upon us. WGNS is once again your source for local Rutherford County sports. From the preps to the Blue Raiders, we have it all. This Monday night will begin the Primetime Sports season with the IDEASTEES Primetime Sports Scene. I will join Jon Dinkins and Donnie Johnson for sports talk each Monday night at 6 from Puleo’s Grille on Broad. Jonathon Hutton with Titans Radio and the DNJ’s Tom Kreager will be regular contributors to the show. Plus, local trivia and call-ins.
Coming up on Mondays beginning August 30th, Rick Stockstill “LIVE.” Chip Walters will talk to the coach from 7-8 every Monday through football season. Plus, you’ll have the chance to call in and talk about the Middle Tennessee football team.
This season, we’ll have every football game broadcast with Chip Walters and Kelly Holcomb and also three hours of pregame before each home game from the tailgate area. The first game is Thursday, September 2nd and our coverage begins at 3pm.
Back to the preps…where this season’s football will be one of the most competitive we’ve seen. Yeah, we say that every year, but it’s been true every year! Our first Prentice Alsup Heating and Air Coaches Corner will be Saturday, August 14th, the week before week zero’s games. You’ll get a preview of all the local high school teams. Jon Dinkins and I will be at the South Church Street Shoney’s for the 2 ½ of conversation each Saturday beginning at 9am.
The kickoff week of high school football on WGNS will feature two games. On Thursday, August 19th, we will follow the Smyrna Bulldogs to Beech as the ‘dawgs battle the defending Class 5-A state champions. Then, Friday the 20th, Oakland entertains Ensworth in a public versus private battle on the gridiron.
You can keep up with all the prep sports at goprimetimesports.com and Middle Tennessee sports at goblueraiders.com. WGNS…with an even bigger signal at FM 100.5…ready to bring you the biggest and most competitive season of local sports coverage ever on the radio!
Boater Backs TRUCK into Normandy Lake in Coffee County
July 30, 2010
Thursday afternoon Dale Frame was attempting to remove his boat from the waters of Normandy lake. He backed his 2004 Dodge with trailer into the water at Barton Springs Boat Dock. While the motor was still running he got out of the truck and walked away from the drivers door. The truck motor stalled and the truck rolled back into the water, completely submerging it. A diver and tow truck were called to pull the truck and trailer from the drink.
After the diver got the truck hooked up the wrecker began pulling the water-logged Dodge from the murky depths. The wrecker sputtered and began rolling backwards. The wrecker driver, who was at the winch controls, ran and dove into his wrecker and saved it. The wrecker rear end was almost completely submerged when he got it stopped. After that the rescue was successful, but uneventful. Coffee County Deputies were on the scene investigating the case of "The water-logged Dodge". - WMSR
Photos by: Barry West
Police Search For East Northfield Home Burglar At Lunchtime Friday
July 30, 2010
At 12:47 Friday afternoon (7/30/10), alert neighbors called police to report an East Northfield Boulevard condo was burglarized. They said a slender black male was seen running from the home and carrying a large trash bag. The 6-foot suspect must have been in good shape, because witnesses said he was jumping hedges and fences. Police quickly set-up a perimeter. The police scent K-9 was brought to Hazelwood Street near Leaf Avenue.
At first it appeared that the dog nosed something as the German Shepherd ran his leashed partner into a wooded area. That did not last long. Murfreesboro Police spokesperson Kyle Evans said, “The K-9 was unable to develop a track.” The suspect was wearing a white shirt and blue jean shorts. If you heard or saw anything, phone your tips to CrimeStoppers. You’ll be anonymous, and not even the police will know your identity. If your tip leads to an arrest and conviction, you’ll be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000. Phone CrimeStopper at 893-STOP (7867).
Rutherford County School Resource Officer Program Receives AWARD
July 30, 2010
Teaching county students and teachers to protect themselves from dangerous offenders earned the sheriff’s School Resources Officers a national safety award.
As part of the “Hide, Flight or Fight” program, SROs simulated a school terrorist attack to allow students and teachers to learn how to be safe. Their efforts earned the division the 2010 National Exemplary School Safety Award from the School Safety Advocacy Council this week at the National School Safety Conference and their partners, the U.S. Department of Justice and Penn State University.
Selection committee members stated Sheriff Truman Jones and his staff have long supported keeping children safe and secure.
A selection committee member stated in 25 years of law enforcement “I have never seen one agency devote so many resources toward school safety. What a commitment by the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.”
Jones said schools Director Harry Gill, the principals, teachers, students and parents cooperate with the SRO program.
“Without that type of cooperation, it just doesn’t work,” Jones said.
SROs are extremely innovative in developing programs for the schools and operate at the highest level.
“If you want to make the bar higher, look at Rutherford County,” Jones said.
SROs developed site plans for every school, participate in mock table top exercises with the schools’ crises response teams, teach educators about the incident command program and conduct safety drills twice a year.After rising reports of school violence and requests for help from educators, Jones initiated the School Resource Officer program in 1993, the first such program in Tennessee.
The program started with SROs assigned to Riverdale, Oakland and La Vergne High Schools, as well as Smyrna and Central Middle Schools.
Forty-five officers are assigned to the SRO Division, covering all Rutherford County Schools. Since Jones introduced the program, similar programs have started in most of the state’s 95 counties, with approximately 650 officers in schools between Bristol and Memphis.
Besides the award, RCSO’s SRO Division has also been recognized by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) for being an “SRO Model Program”, “Presidential Citation for Best SRO Division” and “Best Start-up Agency.”
Lt. Bill West is a past-president of National Association of School Resource Officers and a current board member for the organization.
Maj. Bill Kennedy, who supervises the SRO Division, said he was extremely proud of the reward.
“We are looking forward to the new school year and developing new and original techniques to continue to keep our kids and our schools and educators safe,” Kennedy said.
SROs sponsor more than 50 proactive programs to keep children safe. The programs include “Keeping Kids S.A.F.E.,” Operation Integrity Boot Camp and Parent Education, RAD Kids and RAD Women, Special Needs Kids Rodeo, Teen Education Alcohol Management store beer buys, and Collision Avoidance.
Gill said School Resource Officers have become invaluable in the schools and have greatly contributed to maintaining a safe environment for learning. “The SRO program has proven to be a beneficial partnership for both our school district and the Sheriff’s Department, and I hope to see that partnership continue to thrive as our county grows,” Gill said. This is the second time the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Officer School Resource Officers have been nationally recognized for their outstanding program. In 2000, NASRO honored them with the SRO Model Program.
PHOTO (Click for Enlargement):
First row, L to R:
Bill Kennedy, Shawn Jones, Jackie Bauer, Phil Brooks, John Heath, Dustin Cox, Coleman Murdock, Curtis Lavarello (see above)
Second Row:
Ken Travis, Brian McNeal, David Crim, Dr. David Benke (Jefferson County, CO Schools), George Brown
Hot Days…Hot Cars…Increases In Fender Benders and More!
July 30, 2010
Another day with the heat index sending the mercury over the 100-degree mark. Officials say there appears to be a correlation between unseasonably hot days and an increase in traffic crashes. Short trips don’t allow auto air conditioners to cool the interior to a comfortable level, and some motorists are distracted by the staggering temperatures the build inside a vehicle. If you can’t start and lock your car so that the air conditioner has adequate time to cool, police say the second best thing is to drive with your windows lowered for short jaunts across town. A bad hair day is preferred over any type of crash! (photo below) This rear-end collision occurred Friday morning (7/30/10) on Memorial Boulevard. Extensive bumper and rear damage along with passengers complaining of neck and back pains were the end results of this MVA (motor vehicle accident).
M’boro City Government Receives Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting
July 30, 2010
For the 12th year in a row, the Certificate of Achievement of Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the City of Murfreesboro by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).
The award is presented to Murfreesboro City Recorder and Director of Finance Melissa B. Wright.
The Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, according to GFOA, and its attainment represents the highest and best among government and management accomplishments.
A commemorative plaque will be mailed to the City of Murfreesboro and its Tax and Finance Department.
The GFOA established the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program (CAFR Program) in 1945 to encourage and assist state and local governments to go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles to prepare comprehensive annual financial reports that evidence the spirit of transparency and full disclosure and then to recognize individual governments that succeed in achieving that goal.
Reports submitted to the CAFR program are reviewed by selected members of the GFOA professional staff and the GFOA Special Review Committee (SRC), which comprises individuals with expertise in public-sector financial reporting and includes financial statement preparers, independent auditors, academics, and other finance professionals.
City Manager Rob Lyons said, “This award recognizes the efforts of City Finance Director Melissa Wright, Assistant Finance Director Erin Tucker, their staff and the City’s Auditors, Jobe, Hastings and Associates to ensure the City’s financial reports are accurate and complete. We are proud to again win this award and know that it demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and excellence regarding the city’s finances.”
The City’s comprehensive annual financial report, or audit as it sometimes referred to, is available to our residents on the City’s website.
GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 17,500 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago, Ill. And Washington, D.C.
M’boro City Schools Names Coordinator of Literacy and Instructional Interventions
July 30, 2010
Dr. Caresa Brooks has been named Murfreesboro City Schools’ Coordinator of Literacy and Instructional Interventions. Most recently she was the Coordinator of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Reading Clinic at Vanderbilt University, a position she held since August 2003. She also is adjunct faculty for Dyslexic Studies at MTSU. She has been an Assistant Professor of Dyslexic Studies at MTSU, a Research Assistant in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt, Supervisor of Clinical Services at MTSU’s Tennessee Center for Dyslexia, and a Graduate Assistant at that same Center. Dr. Brooks received her B.S. in Psychology from MTSU as well as her MA in School Psychology and Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction. She received her Ph.D. in Special Education with a minor in Reading from Vanderbilt. She is a Licensed School Psychologist and Nationally Certified School Psychologist. She has co-authored numerous articles about reading and has presented at various national and international conferences. “Caresa interned with us at Murfreesboro City Schools and we are thrilled that she now will be a permanent part of our system. She is recognized in Tennessee, the southeast region, and nationally for her expertise in the development of effective instructional interventions that address reading problems. She will play a vital role in the team that has been assembled to lead instruction for Murfreesboro City Schools,” said Director of Schools, Dr. Linda Gilbert.
Quick Change Artist Gets Nearly $1,000
July 30, 2010
2-Walmart cashiers were quick changed out of close to $1,000. A quick change artist is someone who steals money by confusing cashiers while they are making change. They’re called "artists" because they are amazingly good at what they do.
The quick change act occurred at the Walmart on South Rutherford Blvd. Reports show the culprit was a black male between the age of 25 and 35. He was seen driving a 2000 model Ford Taurus.
State of TN to Focus More on Higher Education
July 30, 2010
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission approved the 2010-15 “Master Plan,” signaling a major shift in the public agenda for higher education in Tennessee. The plan reflects the goals of the Complete College Tennessee Act of 2010, proposed by Governor Phil Bredesen and adopted by the General Assembly during January’s special session. The new law establishes increased educational attainment as the state’s primary need.
The Higher Education Commission told us it is estimated that 54% of all jobs in Tennessee will require some postsecondary training beyond high school in 2018.
The Complete College Tennessee Act was one of two pieces of legislation that were the focus on a special session that was called by Governor Bredesen to address education reforms in the state’s K-12 and higher education systems.
The Act holds higher education accountable for increasing educational attainment in the state and mandates certain fiscal, academic, and research policies in support of that goal. Funding reform will also direct resources away from an enrollment driven model to one that is outcomes-based and rewards institutions for efficiencies and productivity.
UPDATE: Grand Jury to Decide on Charges in the Murder of a 16-Month Old in Murfreesboro
July 30, 2010
The Grand Jury will decide what kind of charges should be filed in the beating death of a 16-month old child in Murfreesboro. 32-Year old Rashii Brisbon is the single suspect in the case. Police say the baby was found to be in his care at Waterford Place Apartments on South Church Street when he took the baby to Middle Tennessee Medical Center on June 18th. Toddler Kymari Clark died after being assaulted. The young child had internal bleeding on the brain. Brisbon claims the child fell off the couch after choking on food.
Brisbon is not the father of the 16-month old, but was said to be watching the child. Reports indicate that Brisbon is related to the family of the toddler.
Brisbon faces additional charges unrelated to the Childs death for deserting military service. Brisbon was enlisted in the U.S. Army and will face federal charges in that case. The man is not being released on bond.
See Previous Stories Involving Brisbon
UPDATE: MPD Still Searching for Man Who Robbed 5/3 Bank on Thursday – See Pictures of the Robber
July 30, 2010
The Murfreesboro Police Department is continuing their investigation into a bank robbery that occurred at the 5/3 Bank located on Old Fort Pkwy near Cason Lane on Thursday morning.The robbery occurred shortly after 9am.
The suspect was armed with a handgun in the hold-up. No one was injured in the heist. To see a picture of the culprit visit WGNSradio.com (pictures below). The Police Department encourages anyone with information to call the Criminal Investigations division at (615) 893-2717.
UPDATE: Man Who Fell from NW Broad St. Bridge Dies
July 30, 2010
WGNS has confirmed that a man who fell from a NW Broad Street bridge near West Main St. has died from injuries sustained in the accident. Pedestrian John Edward Clawson was unconscious when emergency workers were called to the scene around 4-AM on Saturday. 49-Year old Clawson fell from the top of the bridge on Broad St. down to the Greenway below. Clawson was allegedly intoxicated when he fell and foul play is not suspected. Kyle Evans with the Murfreesboro Police Department told us the fall is however being investigated.
UPDATE: Mosque Situation in Murfreesboro
July 30, 2010
Former Muslims United are fighting a campaign that speaks out against the Mosque in Rutherford County that will be built on Veals Road by the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro. The County Commission has already given the religious organization the green light to move forward with their plans. Groups like the Former Muslims United want their voices to be heard. The group even leased space on a digital billboard on Old Fort Parkway July 15th. The message states, “Stop The Murfreesboro Mosque!”
WGNS spoke to at least one former Muslim against the idea of a Mosque in Murfreesboro who refused to go on the air. He told us, “speaking out against the Mosque would put my family in extreme danger and I am not willing to do that.” The former Muslim we talked to lives several miles from the Veals Road location and is now a Christian.
Picture: From www.FormerMuslimsUnited.com
Woman Busted for Stealing at Store She Just Applied In
July 30, 2010
Why go for an employee discount when you can get the five-fingered one? QMI reports police in Ontario, Canada arrested an unidentified 40-year-old woman for shoplifting from a store where she had just applied for a job. After the woman dropped off her resume and spoke to the manager last weekend, surveillance cameras caught her taking several items. Since she left her resume at the scene, it wasn’t too tough for cops to find the woman. Police also say she also showed up for the interview in clothes she’d stolen from the store the previous day.
I Always Feel Like Somebody’s Watching Me
July 30, 2010
You may have seen all the recent TV ads for PC optimization and making your computer faster. While I would never purchase the services of these “Johnny Come Latelys” (because I don’t think their online scans are much more than a fear-based sales tool), they prosper because spyware is one of the fastest-growing internet threats. Read more
New Inductees Into The TENNESSEE INSURANCE HALL OF FAME
July 29, 2010
Dan Brooks of Rutledge, Joe Rackley of Pulaski and Tom McDonald of Franklin will be inducted into the Robert E. Musto Tennessee Insurance Hall of Fame Friday, July 30, in Murfreesboro.
Induction ceremony festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center, 1200 Conference Center Dr., adjacent to Interstate 24 and Medical Center Parkway.
“Once again, we have three outstanding honorees who will be inducted into the hall of fame,” Dr. Ken Hollman, chairholder of the Martin Chair of Insurance at MTSU, said. “They not only have had outstanding careers in the insurance industry and other areas, but they also have been leaders involved in their individual communities. It’s with pride we recognize them.”
Brooks grew up in Jasper, Tenn., graduating from Marion County High School and later earning a B.S. from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville. While successfully coaching the Whitwell High School football Tigers in the early to mid-1970s, he also was attending graduate school at MTSU.
In 1975, Brooks joined State Farm Insurance with the opening of an agency in Dunlap, Tenn., embarking on a 35-year career that saw him spend 27 of those years in east, middle and west Tennessee in various management capacities. He has earned awards and distinctions, overseen award-winning agents, and been on many committees and boards throughout his career before retiring in 2009.
Brooks and his wife, Freda, who have been married 44 years, have three children and four grandchildren.
Joseph M. “Joe” Rackley, a Giles County High School graduate, earned a bachelor of engineering degree in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University. He spent 12 years in the aerospace industry, and gained vast computer programming expertise while at NASA. He inherited his father’s insurance business in Pulaski.
Computers and how they could be utilized in the insurance industry caught his attention in 1979. This led to the founding of Rackley Systems Inc., serving as president and chairman of the board until the company was sold to AMS in 2003. His company provided software solutions to independent insurance agencies and insurance companies.
Rackley and his wife, Diane, have three sons and a daughter, all of whom worked with their father in the business.
Tom McDonald, a native of Jamestown, Tenn., graduated from the Alvin C. York Institute, and he played football and earned a B.S. in education from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville. He has had an outstanding 36-year career in the industry, and retired as a Tennessee Farmers Insurance Company executive.
McDonald quickly moved up the ladder from top-producing agent to director and vice president of sales from 1975 until 1994 when he became chief marketing officer for two years. He then became a regional agency manager for 10 years. He has earned numerous industry and civic recognitions and been a part of many insurance organizations.
His wife, Susan, and other family and friends will join him at the induction.
UPDATE - UPDATE: Lawsuit Filed in 6th Congressional Race
July 29, 2010
A defamation lawsuit has been filed in the 6th congressional race. Democrat candidate Diane Black’s husband David is suing Republican Lou Ann Zelenik. The suit claims that an ad that Zelenik is running will damage his business. David Black is with a drug testing company (Aegis Sciences Corporation). The lawsuit is asking for a temporary restraining order to prevent the ad from continuing.
The ad claims that Diane Black helped her husband obtain a $1-million dollar state contract.
The campaign for Zelenik RESPONDED:
Jay Heine, campaign manager for Sixth District Congressional Candidate Lou Ann Zelenik has issued a brief statement responding to the court ruling today which struck down an attempt by Diane Black to have a Zelenik campaign ad removed from airing. The ad in question reveals the fact that senator Black on such violated senate rule # 13 in voting in committee for an appropriation that eventually led to the benefit of her husband’s company. Senators can vote matters, but are required to disclose the conflict of interest.
Heine said, “It is now apparent that senator Black has crossed some line between desperation and silliness. To attempt to use the court system in a federal election to prevent the disclosure of something that is a documented part of the public record is almost beyond explanation. I can assure you this attempted intimidation will not work. The attempt to stifle free speech, and deny one candidate the ability to expose the record of another is frightening in one way, and also makes one wonder what kind of mindset we would be sending to congress if Black were to win. We need defenders of freedom, not those who will censor public discourse. The court saw this for what it was, and the voters now know we have been telling the truth all along. Diane Black should be ashamed of herself, and her campaign is now exposed for the smoke and mirrors it has always been. I’m sure her negative personal attacks on Lou Ann will continue, but people are sick and tired of that kind of dirty politics. The Lou Ann Zelenik campaign is about conservative values, and putting an end to politics as usual. We will continue on that message.”
United Way Employee Campaign Manager Training
July 29, 2010
On Wednesday (7/28/2010), United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties completed a day of intensive manager training. The local non-profit organization’s President and CEO Brian Hercules thought it was very important that each Employee Campaign Manager (ECM) have a strong understanding of United Way’s vision. The ECMs serve as a liaison between their company and the United Way during the annual campaign. The fund raising officially begins in September. Pacesetter opportunities are available by contacting United Way at 615-893-7303. (below) Those United Way managers who attended the session pose for a photo.
MTSU’s Gbagbeke takes bronze at African Championships
July 29, 2010
NAIROBI, Kenya - Middle Tennessee’s Stanley Gbagbeke won the bronze medal in the long jump on Thursday at the 2010 CAA Safaricom African Senior Athletics Championships, finishing the event with a mark of 26-5.5 (8.06m).
Gbagbeke entered the day ninth in the competition with a standing jump of 25-0.5 (7.63m), earned in Wednesday’s qualifying round. His final round leap of 26-5.5 (8.06m) tied a career best to take third place and earn the fourth overall medal for his native Nigeria at this year’s games. South Africa’s Khotso Mokoena won the event with a mark of 27-0 (8.23m).
The 2010 NCAA All-American’s mark ranks as the fifth-longest in Blue Raider history. Roland McGhee’s jump of 27-6 (8.38m) has stood as the MT standard since 1993.
Gbagbeke’s Middle Tennessee teammate Sarah Nambawa is scheduled to compete Saturday in the women’s triple jump for her home country of Uganda.
M’boro City Schools Announced Coordinator of Curriculum
July 29, 2010
Karen Hawkins has been named Murfreesboro City Schools’ Coordinator of Curriculum. Ms. Hawkins has served as Professional Development Coordinator since 2006 for Williamson County Schools. Prior to that position she served as Curriculum Specialist: Special Projects, the Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Professional Development, and Technology Training Coordinator for Williamson County Schools. Mrs. Hawkins’ classroom experiences are as a K-6 special education teacher in Franklin Special School District, a secondary special education teacher in Williamson County, and a K-5 special education teacher in Griffin, GA. She was the Franklin Special School District Teacher of the Year in 1996-97. Mrs. Hawkins holds an Associate of Arts in Education from Dalton State University, a Bachelor of Science from Valdosta State University, and a Master of Education from Vanderbilt University. She has an additional endorsement in Educational Leadership from Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN. “As Coordinator of Curriculum for Murfreesboro City Schools, Ms. Hawkins brings tremendous educational experience and a strong understanding of learning theory and effective instructional practices. She is exceptionally qualified for the position and we look forward to her joining Murfreesboro City Schools,” said Director of Schools, Dr. Linda Gilbert.
Sex Offender Convicted of Attempted Child Rape Found to be Living Next to Day Care
July 29, 2010
Murfreesboro Police conducted a sex offender check on a man by the name of Joey D. Webb. The check was conducted at Webb’s Carver Street home. Authorities found that the 41-year old was living less then 1,000 feet from a day care and Patterson Park Recreation Center. Webb is on the sex offender list because he attempted to rape a child in year 2008. Under Tennessee law, sex offenders are not allowed to live within 1,000 feet of any daycare or recreation type facility. Warrants have been obtained for Webb.
Police have filed another report regarding a sex offender who has been accused of violating his the sex offender guidelines. The police incident report does not specify the alleged actions of Frankie Edwards, only that he was found to be in violation. The case is being looked into by Detective Roberts.
Edwards, who lives on Christy Court, was placed on the Sex Offender Registry in 2003 after being convicted for statutory rape. At the time, Edwards would have been 23-years of age. Today, he is 30.
COMMENTARY: Japanese Radio and Television
July 29, 2010
LARRY L. BURRISS, Ph.D., J.D.
Professor, School of Journalism
Middle Tennessee State University
lburriss@mtsu.edu
Last week we talked about newspapers in Japan, so I thought this week we could take a look at radio, television and other popular forms of entertainment.
Electronic media in Japan are used far more extensively than in any other Asian country, and indeed, more than in most other countries. Radio broadcasting began in 1926 with the founding of NHK, a public corporation paid for by television set owners. NHK television was introduced in 1953.
Commercial broadcasting began in 1951, and today there are several private commercial networks, most owned by newspaper companies. Just like in the United States, cross-ownership is an issue debated by both the industry and the public.
Although television programs vary from station to station, some generalizations can be made. For the most part variety shows, dramas and news programs make up a large percentage of Japanese evening shows. Western movies are also popular, with Japanese subtitles rather than over-dubbed voices. There are also all-English television stations on cable and satellite.
Although Japanese and US cultures are often seen as totally different, in fact, the media are making them more and more similar. Young, urban Japanese are increasingly known for their conspicuous consumption, and for their adoption of fads that quickly go in and out of fashion. Indeed, on this street corner in downtown Tokyo I can see women in traditional kimonos walking beside teenagers with NFL logo t-shirts, spiked green and blue hair and low-cut blue jeans.
Western music is strong in Japan, along with jazz and blues. There are also many Japanese songs sung to the accompaniment of Western musical instruments. Most unusual was last night’s visit to a Karaoke bar. Patrons sang American standard and rock-and-roll hits in front of a video screen projecting images from American movies that had absolutely no connection to the song. Try to visualize a young Japanese businessman singing the 1977 Barbara Streisand hit, “My Heart Belongs To Me,” in front of a scene from the 1993 hit movie “Jurassic Park.” To Western eyes the juxtaposition just doesn’t work, but no one seemed to mind.
Now, of course, the Internet has linked both American and Japanese audiences and media. A quick search showed dozens of programs available in both audio and video formats, as well as a multitude of newspapers, advertisements and movies. Maybe Marshall McLuhan’s vision of a global village isn’t such a far-fetched idea after all.
Man Shot in Arm Says He Was Just Listening to Music on Headphones
July 29, 2010
A gunshot wound to the arm is what one Murfreesboro man received around 8:00, Wednesday night. The victim told police he was standing on Minor Street at Hancock wearing headphones when all of a sudden a bullet hit him in the left bicep. 19-Year old Christopher Lillard told police he did not see who shot him.
The incident is being investigated by detectives.
Daughter Busted for Putting Lysol in Mom’s Juice
July 29, 2010
Brittany Merrill has been "scent" to jail. Foster’s Daily Democrat reports the 17-year-old girl from Portsmouth, New Hampshire was arrested Monday for putting Lysol in some juice her mother was drinking. The incident allegedly took place after Brittany got into an argument with her mom, who became suspicious when her throat began burning after swallowing some of the contaminated juice.
Narcotics Investigation Ends With Arrest in the ‘Boro
July 29, 2010
The narcotics unit at the Murfreesboro Police Department have wrapped up another investigation into illegal drug sales. Their hard work has placed 46-year old Randall Alan Walters in jail on charges of possessing drug paraphernalia, felony possession of a scheduled 2 drug, maintaining a dwelling for the purpose of selling drugs and manufacturing, selling and delivering marijuana.
Walters has been accused of selling drugs from an apartment on Poplar Avenue. He will appear in court on the 20th of September to face the drug related charges.
Walters was apprehended with his wife Crystal Walters who faces charges for maintaining a dwelling for the sale of narcotics and selling marijuana. Also arrested was 18-year old Mark Walters. Mark faces similar charges.
New Civil War Battlefield Database to be Introduced in Future
July 29, 2010
A new online database is being created that will archive Civil War battlefields and information related to the battle areas. The The project will include online information for 38-important battles fought in Tennessee. The creation of the database is being paid for with a $40,750 grant from the National Parks Service.
Swap and Shop for Thursday
July 29, 2010
For Sale: TWO RIDING MOWERS and a push mower and a mini bike 893-1114For Sale: 60 Watt Crate Amp for a guitar and a Martin
Guitar Case and an old beater guitar for $15 - 663-3077
For Sale: electric cooler, microwave and more - 569-1951
also a coffee maker
WILL DO ELECTRIC WORK - 853-4883 and selling HAY $2 a bale
For sale: POCKET KNIVES and some old oil lamps 569-0933
WANTED: Baby bed and newborn clothing 904-0591 DONNA
For sale: Punching bag for $50 - 217-4938
For Sale: autographed Dale Earnhardt collectables 631-0410
For Sale: Boxer Mix PUPPIE 971-1343 - FREE
YARD SALE: Friday and Saturday - 212 Dill Lane - 691-3187
YARD SALE: 310 Double Springs Rd. - Have Everything
For Sale: Boys 27″ bike 867-1010
For Sale: 1978 GMC Cbalaro for $4500 and an upright bass
fiddle for $500 - firm 663-5211
For Sale: plastic planters in different shapes for $5
each. Also some new fireplace mantles. Call 896-9729
For Sale: 896-8141 PUPPIES!!!!
For Sale: recliner $25 and porch swing $10 - - - - 893-9418
For sale: 2005 PACE Cargo Trailer 542-1709 - $2500 obo
For sale: 1994 Ford Truck 890-7616
WANTED: Storage building - call me 556-3467
Republican Party Makes Bold Move and Ask for Sheriff Jones to Resign After Years of Service
July 29, 2010
WGNS received a notice from Tim Rudd with the Republican Party of Rutherford County shortly before midnight on Wednesday. The information shows that the Republican Party is asking for Sheriff Truman Jones to step down by resigning.
The notice reads:
The Republican Party of Rutherford County Executive Committee unanimously passed a resolution asking for the immediate resignation/removal of Truman Jones as Sheriff for failing to meet the minimum and legal requirements to both serve as Sheriff and be a candidate for Sheriff at its regular monthly meeting held at GOP headquarters on 7/27/2010.
We find it ironic that Truman Jones attempted to use his position with the P.O.S.T. Commission (Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission) to disqualify Robert Arnold as a candidate for Sheriff all the while being an unqualified candidate for Sheriff under P.O.S.T. Commission & Tennessee law at the same time. “Truman Jones has not met the minimal requirements to be a candidate for Sheriff since 1993 and the P.O.S.T. Commission has been covering it up. The P.O.S.T. Commission should be investigated for their cover-up.” Said Jimmy Evans, Chairman of the Republican Party of Rutherford County.
“What we have here is an assault on the democratic process. A Sheriff is entrusted to uphold the law. When you have both a Sheriff serving illegally, and the government agency entrusted with oversight of the Sheriff refusing to enforce the law, you put both our judicial system and our democracy in question.” Said Felicia Hix, Vice Chairwoman of the Republican Party.
The following resolution breaks down the laws Truman Jones and the P.O.S.T. Commission have broken. It is irrefutable under any interpretation.
“Resolution”
“DISQUALIFICATION & REMOVAL OF TRUMAN JONES AS SHERIFF”
WHEREAS, there are several statutory criteria for being appointed or elected to the office of Sheriff, all of which are codified in TCA §8-8-102. Subsection (a) of this statute states, in part, “After May 30, 1997, to qualify for election or appointment to the office of sheriff a person shall…Have been certified by a qualified professional in the psychiatric or psychological fields to be free of all apparent mental disorder as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition (DSM-III), or its successor, of the American Psychiatric Association.” This particular requirement dates back to at least 1993; and
WHEREAS, there are certain forms that must be filed with the Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission (hereafter, “P.O.S.T.”), including a Verification of Psychological Evaluation form, as well as an Affidavit of compliance with TCA §8-8-102(a) sworn to under oath by each candidate. Once the P.O.S.T. receives all the information they require from each candidate, it is the duty of the P.O.S.T. to verify said information and perform background checks on each candidate. For each candidate who is verified by P.O.S.T. to meet the qualifications of TCA §8-8-102, the P.O.S.T. shall issue a Certificate of Compliance to the local election commission, who then shall require certain other information from each candidate. Once the election commission has received certification from P.O.S.T., as well as other documents required to be submitted to the election commission, then the election commission will “qualify” each candidate for placement on the ballot; and
WHEREAS, the psychological evaluation form filed by Truman Jones with the P.O.S.T. Commission for the 2010 election is a photocopy of the form he filed in 2002 and again in 2006. However, this form is invalid, and therefore, void for several reasons. First, and foremost, the form requires certification from a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist and states the following: “I have evaluated tests administered to the reference[d] individual and find that this officer is…Qualified…to be certified under the provisions of TCA §8-8-102. The results of my evaluation are being forwarded to the employing agency.” It further states, “Any person who, with intent to deceive, makes any false statement on this document commits the offense of perjury pursuant to TCA §39-16-702.” This document was signed by one Robert W. Scollon, Ph.D., on August 7, 2001, who was unlicensed to practice psychology at that time; this form references a psychological evaluation administered to Truman Jones on October 28, 1976, which was some 25 years prior to the date it was signed; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Scollon retired and allowed his professional psychology license to expire effective December 31, 1989, which was almost 12 years prior to illegally signing Truman Jones’ psychological evaluation form. Therefore, being unlicensed to practice psychology in 2001, he was unable to legally administer any tests to Truman Jones, and he was unable to legally sign any type of medical document at that time. Consequently, this renders Truman Jones’ psychological evaluation form invalid. Engaging in the practice of psychology without a license is a Class B Misdemeanor, pursuant to TCA §63-11-206; and
WHEREAS, the second reason the psychological evaluation form is invalid is due to the actual evaluation administered to Truman Jones. The evaluation administered to Mr. Jones 34 years ago, in 1976, would have been administered according to the guidelines of the DSM-II (published in 1968), which is quite antiquated when compared to the DSM-III (published in 1980) and its successors. State law (TCA §8-8-102) clearly requires that the test administered to candidates for the office of sheriff must be conducted under the guidelines of the DSM-III or its successor; the DSM-III revolutionized the world of psychiatry, adding almost 400 pages, as well as 80 diagnoses; additionally, the DSM-III introduced a multi-axial system of diagnosis, which the DSM-II did not do. Furthermore, the P.O.S.T. Regulations and the P.O.S.T.’s own form hold the referenced individual to an even higher standard, requiring that the psychological evaluation be completed under the guidelines of the “current edition” of the DSM and that, “Applicants must be certified as meeting those criteria [TCA §8-8-102] by a Tennessee Licensed Health Care Provider qualified in the psychiatric or psychological fields.” The current edition of the DSM in 2010 is the DSM-IV-TR (text revision); which was published in 2000 and is also the edition that was in effect at the times Mr. Jones’ form was illegally signed by Mr. Scollon in 2001; and
WHEREAS, it is the opinion of the Tennessee Attorney General’s office as stated in TN AG Opinion 02-009 that “the individual signing the form must be able to certify that the representations the form includes are accurate as of the date he or she signs the form.” Mr. Scollon clearly was not a ‘licensed health care provider’, as required by law and the P.O.S.T.’s own form, and he had not been licensed for almost 12 years; therefore, he could not ‘certify’ anything in 2001; and
WHEREAS, the filing deadlines for documents required to be submitted in elections are mandatory, pursuant to TCA §2-1-108; see also Koella v. State ex rel. Moffett, 218 Tenn. 629, 405 S.W.2d 184 (1966). Filing a void, illegal document does not allow one the opportunity to go and complete the task and then re-file it, having the benefit of the original filing date; and
WHEREAS, due to the proper psychological evaluation having not been completed and the form having been signed illegally by a then-unlicensed psychologist, the form is invalid, thereby rendering Truman Jones ineligible to be appointed or elected to the office of sheriff, pursuant to the requirements of TCA §8-8-102; and
WHEREAS, the term for the office of sheriff in Tennessee is four (4) years. Each candidate—whether incumbent or not—has to ‘qualify’ for his or her name to be placed on the ballot each time; in doing so, he or she must meet the statutory requirements of TCA §8-8-102 for each and every election every four years. Truman Jones did not meet the requirement of Subsection (8) or the requirement of the P.O.S.T.’s own form; and
WHEREAS, a psychologist “signing off on” a 34-year-old psychological evaluation is not an acceptable medical standard in the field of psychology. Many factors affect a person’s psyche, which can change in a short period of time; and
WHEREAS, Truman Jones signed an Affidavit, under oath, stating the following: “I, Truman L. Jones, Jr., do hereby swear or affirm that I possess all the Qualifications required for the office of sheriff. By means of this Affidavit, I certify that the following statements are true…I have been certified by a qualified professional in the psychiatric or psychological fields to be free of all apparent mental disorder as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition (DSM-III), or its successor, of the American Psychiatric Association…All as required by TCA §8-8-102.” A candidate commits perjury (a Class A misdemeanor) if he or she willfully makes a false statement under oath in the Affidavit required by TCA §8-8-102.
WHEREAS, the election statutes state in TCA §2-19-102 that “A person commits a Class C misdemeanor if such person knowingly does any act prohibited by this title, or if such person knowingly fails to do any act which such person is required to do by this title, or if such person knowingly does any act with the intent that another shall do an act prohibited by this title.”
WHEREAS, the requirements stated in TCA §8-8-102 (including having a sheriff who is certified to be currently free from any mental disorder or defect) are required for the public’s welfare; and
WHEREAS, the sheriff takes an oath of office to uphold the laws of the Constitutions, the State, and the county in which he or she serves; the sheriff is not to be above the law, but is subject to the same laws as each and every citizen of this county, this state, and this great nation.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT Truman L. Jones, Jr., has been ineligible for the office of sheriff of Rutherford County since at least 1993. As such, he has been serving as sheriff illegally and never should have been certified by P.O.S.T. or qualified by the election commission for placement on the ballot for the following elections: 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, or 2010. Mr. Jones is currently illegally running for election to the office of sheriff without meeting the minimal requirements to be a candidate for this office under Tennessee law. Hence, Mr. Jones should resign from office immediately or risk being removed from office forthwith and without further ado. Furthermore, Mr. Jones should be disqualified as a candidate for the office of sheriff immediately.
Passed by the Executive Committee of the Republican Party of Rutherford County, Tennessee, on 7-27-2010.
Neighbors in the Area of a Proposed Mosque in M’boro Want to Know Who is Buried on The Veals Rd. Property
July 29, 2010
The politics continue surrounding the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro and the newly proposed location for a Mosque on Veals Road. Muslims have already utilized the land for a burial site. In fact, neighbors in the area say the religious group buried someone on the land before receiving the proper permit. Some neighbors claim a burial took place on the 17th of May and the single burial permit was issued on the 18th. Murfreesboro Police however, told WSMV that they gave a funeral escort to the burial site on May 19th.
Residents in the area of the proposed Mosque on Veals Road say they want to know who is buried in that grave. There is no marking on the site. A letter was even sent to Rutherford County Sheriff Truman Jones asking for the burial to be investigated.
Woodbury Woman Arrested on Drug Charges After Sealed Indictment Handed Down
July 29, 2010
A 9-month long investigation has led to the arrest of a Cannon County woman. A sealed indictment handed down by a grand jury have landed 27-year old Brandi Lynn Deese of Woodbury behind bars. She turned herself in at the Cannon County Jail on Monday (July 26th).
A sealed indictment was returned against Deese by the May term of the grand jury on charges of:
Sale of Schedule II Controlled Substance,
Maintaining a Vehicle for the Purpose of Sale of Narcotics and
Maintaining a Dwelling for the Purpose of Sale of Narcotics.
Bond was set at $40,000 by Circuit Judge David Bragg. Deese will be arraigned on the charges by Circuit Judge Don Ash on Friday, August 20th.
Investigators for the Cannon County Sheriff’s Department concluded a nine month drug operation on Friday, May 14th when nine cases were presented to the grand jury. Presenting the cases to the grand jury as sealed indictments was Investigator Charlie Wilder, who along with Investigator Vance Walker, conducted the drug operation. Seven defendants have been picked up on those indictments with two remaining un served according to the Cannon County Sheriff’s Department.
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