Tennessee State News

Vanderbilt takes center stage as ESPN College GameDay returns to Nashville

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 14:39:37 +0000

For years, Vanderbilt struggled with filling their stadium and winning football games. But not anymore. West End has become the center of the college football universe as Nashville finds itself in the spotlight with ESPN's College GameDay returning to Music City to preview the Commodores' big game against Missouri.

The Commodores are currently ranked in the top 10 in the nation and are favored to beat the visiting 15th-ranked Missouri Tigers. Fans are saying they're bleeding black and gold as they prepare for this momentous occasion.

The last time College GameDay visited Nashville was in 2008, and fans are hoping to show ESPN why they have plenty of reasons to come back. Back then, the Commodores weren't ranked in the top 10, the stadium had just been renovated, George W. Bush was president, and Taylor Swift had just released her hit "Love Story."

Now, for only the second time in school history, College GameDay is returning 17 years later. The game kicks off at 2:30 p.m., but the festivities have already begun with ESPN's broadcast starting at 8 a.m.

Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at Patsy.Montesinos@Newschannel5.com

No inflation report means Fed faces blind spot on prices, policy decisions

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 14:28:36 +0000

The government shutdown now in its fourth week likely means there won't be an inflation report next month for the first time in more than seven decades, the White House said Friday, leaving Wall Street and the Federal Reserve without crucial information about consumer prices.

Because surveyors cannot deploy to the field, the White House has learned there will likely NOT be an inflation release next month for the first time in history, the Trump administration said in an email.

Some of the inflation data is collected electronically, but most is gathered in person by government employees who visit stores across the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, which prepares the inflation report, has already reduced the data collected each month because the Trump administration's hiring freeze left some cities without surveyors.

The announcement follows Fridays release of September inflation data, which showed prices ticked higher but remained lower than many economists had expected. That report, which was delayed by nine days from its originally-scheduled release, was based on data that was collected before the shutdown began Oct. 1.

In past shutdowns the consumer price index the government's principal inflation measure was compiled based on partial data. But it may be too late to gather even that level of information, the Labor Department said.

The disruption comes at a particularly challenging time for the Federal Reserve, the government agency tasked with keeping prices in check. It sharply raised its key short-term interest rate in 2022 and 2023 to combat the worst inflation spike in four decades.

Now Fed Chair Jerome Powell and his colleagues on the Fed's interest-rate setting committee are slowly reducing the rate, as inflation has fallen sharply from its peak three years ago. In addition, the central bank is increasingly concerned that a faltering job market could tip the economy into recession. Reducing borrowing costs could boost spending and hiring.

Yet Powell and other Fed officials still want to keep a close eye on inflation. Powell has said that the tariffs could cause just a one-time increase in prices, rather than an ongoing inflationary trend. But they will want to closely monitor data to ensure that is the case.

The government is also not collecting the figures it will need to issue the next jobs report, which is scheduled for release Nov. 7. But once the government does reopen, the Bureau of Labor Statistics can ask businesses for their payroll data from the middle of October, the time of month when they usually ask for such figures. But it's unlikely that they'll be able to retroactively gather pricing data for this month.

When it comes to employment, the Fed can also look at alternative data such as a compilation of job postings by the employment website Indeed, or a measure of hiring prepared by payroll processor ADP. Yet there are few alternative sources for inflation data.

You're saying it wrong: The most mispronounced places in Tennessee

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 13:35:54 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Whether you're a newcomer to the Volunteer State or just visiting, pronouncing certain streets, cities and counties across Tennessee can be quite confusing.

From Milan (my-lin) to Ooltewah (oo-ta-wah), guessing how to pronounce things in Tennessee might not be the best idea, so News 2 has compiled a cheat sheet and audio that will help you sound just like a native.

Beersheba Springs

Located in Grundy County is the tiny town of Beersheba Springs. Residents pronounce it as BURSH-uh-ba Springs.

Castalian Springs

Locals often pronounce this unincorporated community in Sumner County as "kuh-sta-lee-uhn" Springs.

Celina

Founded in the 19th century and seated in Clay County, locals pronounce this city as suh-LY-nuh.

Demonbreun Street

Nestled between residential high-rises lies one roadway that Nashvillians claim to be the most mispronounced in the Music City area.

Demonbreun Street is pronounced by locals as Dee-MUN-bree-yun Street. Oftentimes, tourists (and Siri) are heard pronouncing it as Demon-broo-en, which according to native Nashvillians, is incorrect.

Giles County

The “G” is pronounced as a “J” when saying the name of this Middle Tennessee county: Juh-iles.

| Check out more lists and rankings from across Tennessee →

Lafayette Street

Lafayette Street is usually pronounced by many Nashvillians as Luh-FAY-it, instead of the French pronunciation Lah-fah-yet.

Lebanon

Home of the Wilson County — Tennessee State Fair is Lebanon, Tennessee, or according to locals: Leb-NUN.

Maury County

Not to be confused with the hit tabloid show hosted by Maury Povich, Tennesseans pronounce the county as MURR-ee.

Milan

The city in Gibson County shares a spelling, but not the same pronunciation as the fashion capital in Italy. In fact, Tennesseans pronounce the city as MY-lin.

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

Ooltewah

Located just outside of Chattanooga, the spelling of this city is much different than how it's pronounced by locals: oo-ta-wah.

Rhea County

The Tennessee county rhymes with pay, and is pronounced as RAY county.

Santa Fe

Unlike the New Mexico capital, Santa Fe, Tennessee, is pronounced to rhyme with see: SAN-tuh FEE.

Tropical Storm Melissa could bring catastrophic flooding to Jamaica, Haiti

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 13:17:30 +0000

With Tropical Storm Melissa expected to strengthen into a hurricane this weekend, officials are warning that Jamaica and Haiti could face catastrophic flooding.

According to the National Hurricane Center, Melissa is expected to meander off Jamaicas southern coast, lashing the mountainous island with heavy rain and gusty winds. The storms outer rainbands are also forecast to continue impacting Haiti.

The National Hurricane Center said much of Jamaica and Haiti could see 15 to 25 inches of rainfall, with some localized areas receiving up to 35 inches.

Hurricane-force winds are expected to begin pounding Jamaica on Sunday and may not let up until late Tuesday. By then, Melissa is expected to become a major hurricane.

Melissas slow movement will bring a multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall beginning tonight, likely causing catastrophic flash flooding and numerous landslides. There is an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge early next week. All preparations should be completed today, the National Hurricane Center said as the storm approaches Jamaica.

The storm is forecast to eventually drift north, striking Cuba or Haiti directly before moving through the Bahamas.

Catastrophic flash flooding and landslides are expected across southwestern Haiti into early next week, likely causing extensive infrastructural damage and potentially prolonged isolation of communities, the National Hurricane Center said. Immediate preparations to protect life and property are urged. Strong winds could also potentially last for a day or more over the Tiburon Peninsula.

Trump’s first Asia trip of term pits diplomacy against domestic turmoil

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 11:36:02 +0000

President Donald Trump headed for Asia Friday night for the first time this term, a trip where hes expected to work on investment deals and peace efforts before meeting face-to-face with Chinese President Xi Jinping to try to deescalate a trade war.

We have a lot to talk about with President Xi, and he has a lot to talk about with us," Trump told reporters as he left the White House. "I think well have a good meeting.

The president will have a long-haul flight that has him arriving in Malaysia on Sunday morning, the first stop of a three-country sprint.

His trip comes as the U.S. government shutdown drags on. Many federal workers are set to miss their first full paycheck this week, there are flight disruptions as already-squeezed air traffic controllers work without pay, and states are confronting the possibility that federal food aid could dry up. As Republicans reject Democratic demands for health care funds, theres no sign of a break in the impasse, but Trump seems to be continuing on with business as usual, including his foreign trip.

"America is shut down and the President is skipping town, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement Friday night.

Trumps first stop is at a regional summit in Kuala Lumpur. Trump attended the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit only once during his first term, but this year it comes as Malaysia and the U.S. have been working to address a skirmish between Thailand and Cambodia.

On Sunday, hes scheduled to have a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, followed by a joint signing ceremony with the prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia.

Trump threatened earlier this year to withhold trade deals with the countries if they didnt stop fighting, and his administration has since been working with Malaysia to nail down an expanded ceasefire.

The president credited Ibrahim with working to resolve the conflict.

I told the leader of Malaysia, who is a very good man, I think I owe you a trip," he told reporters aboard Air Force One.

The U.S. leader on Sunday may also have a significant meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva, who wants to see the U.S. cut a 40% tariff on Brazilian imports. The U.S. administration has justified the tariffs by citing Brazils criminal prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro a Trump ally.

Beyond trade, Lula on Friday also criticized the U.S. campaign of military strikes off the South American coast in the name of fighting drug trafficking. He said he planned to raise concerns with Trump at a meeting on Sunday in Malaysia. The White House has not yet publicly confirmed the meeting is set to take place.

After Malaysia, Trump has stops in Japan and South Korea

From there, Trump heads to Japan and South Korea, where hes expected to make progress on talks for at least $900 billion in investments for U.S. factories and other projects that those countries committed to in return for easing Trumps planned tariff rates down to 15% from 25%.

The trip to Tokyo comes a week after Japan elected its first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi. Trump is set to meet with Takaichi, who is a protg of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Trump was close to Abe, who was assassinated after leaving office.

Trump said Takaichi's relationship with Abe was a good sign and I look forward to meeting her.

While there, Trump is expected to be hosted by Japanese Emperor Naruhito, and meet with U.S. troops who are stationed in Japan, according to a senior U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity about the planned trip.

In South Korea, Trump is expected to hold a highly anticipated meeting with China's Xi on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

While the APEC summit is set to be held in Gyeongju, the Trump-Xi meeting is expected to take place in the city of Busan, according to the U.S. official.

The meeting follows months of volatile moves in a trade war between China and the U.S. that have rattled the global economy.

Trump was infuriated earlier this month after Beijing imposed new export controls on rare earths used in technology and threatened to hike retaliatory tariffs to sky-high levels. He has said he wants China to buy U.S. soybeans. However, earlier this week, Trump was optimistic, predicting he would reach a fantastic deal with Xi.

Trump also said he might ask Xi about freeing Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy newspaper founder, saying "itll be on my list."

The only meeting that could possibly eclipse the Xi summit would be an impromptu reunion with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Speculation has been rife since South Koreas Unification Minister Chung Dong-young told lawmakers this month it was possible that Trump could again meet with Kim in the Demilitarized Zone, as he did in 2019.

But such a meeting is not on the president's schedule for this trip, according to the U.S. official.

Trump suggested it was hard to reach the North Korean leader.

They have a lot of nuclear weapons, but not a lot of telephone service," he said.

Tennessee joins 24 states in Supreme Court brief on birthright citizenship

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 03:37:27 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti has joined Iowa and 23 other states in filing a brief with the Supreme Court of the United States, urging the Court to reconsider how the Constitution defines birthright citizenship.

In a 30-page amicus brief, the coalition argues that the 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause — which states that "all persons born or naturalized in the United States" are citizens — has been interpreted too broadly.

Fire crews respond to blaze at Quarters Inn and Suites on Bell Road

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 02:28:29 +0000

Firefighters were dispatched Friday evening to the Quarters Inn and Suites on Bell Road after reports of a structure fire.
When crews arrived, flames were visible on the second floor of the motel. Firefighters are currently working to extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading further through the building.
Authorities say no injuries have been reported at this time. However, traffic in the area is being affected, with at least one lane closed as emergency crews continue their response.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at holly.lehren@newschannel5.com.

Nashville man killed in rollover crash on Old Hickory Boulevard

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 02:26:30 +0000

Metro Police say a 67-year-old Nashville man died Friday afternoon after a two-vehicle collision on Old Hickory Boulevard at Southfork Boulevard.
The crash happened around 1:15 p.m. Investigators say the man was driving a 1998 Toyota Camry north on Old Hickory Boulevard when he crossed into oncoming traffic and sideswiped a southbound pickup truck.
Police say the Camry continued through the intersection, hit a curb, and rolled over. The driver was taken to Skyline Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
The pickup driver was transported to Summit Medical Center with minor injuries. Witnesses told police the Camry appeared to be speeding before the crash.
Investigators found no signs of impairment for either driver.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at holly.lehren@newschannel5.com.

Tennessee among states that filed a SCOTUS brief to challenge birthright citizenship

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 01:17:32 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — As part of a coalition of 25 states, Tennessee has filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court challenging birthright citizenship.

In January, President Donald Trump ordered federal agencies to stop recognizing birthright citizenship. Under the 14th Amendment, anyone born in the U.S. is a citizen. This summer, separate federal courts rejected the order — but the Justice Department has asked SCOTUS to weigh in on the order's legality. Tennessee's brief was filed in connection with that case.

Read the filing here

Tennessee and the other states argue in the brief that they've seen "an influx of illegal aliens." In the summary of their argument, they say that "mere-presence-at-birth-rule cannot be right all the time" and that conferring citizenship "requires a more meaningful connection than mere presence by happenstance or illegality."

“The idea that citizenship is guaranteed to everyone born in the United States doesn’t square with the plain language of the Fourteenth Amendment or the way many government officials and legal analysts understood the law when it was adopted after the Civil War,” Skrmetti said. “If you look at the law at the time, citizenship attached to kids whose parents were lawfully in the country. Each child born in this country is precious no matter their parents’ immigration status, but not every child is entitled to American citizenship. This case could allow the Supreme Court to resolve a constitutional question with far-reaching implications for the States and our nation.”

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Iowa, Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming joined Tennessee in filing the brief.

Witnesses say CBP agents deployed tear gas in a Chicago neighborhood following arrest operation

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 00:41:42 +0000

Chicago residents say ICE and Customs and Border Protection agents carried out multiple operations across the city on Friday.
In one incident, neighbors in the Lakeview neighborhood told Scripps News that agents detained a man who was working on construction outside of a home. Neighbors say that four men were part of a construction crew that was working on the home and that one man was detained.
Witnesses say CBP agents deployed tear gas in a Chicago neighborhood following arrest operation
Dozens of people nearby gathered at the scene some drawn by others who blew whistles to draw attention to what was happening.
"I think it's important that everybody stay vigilant." said Bennett Lawson, the Alderman of Chicago's 44th Ward, which includes the neighborhood in which the incident happened. "The more noise you make, the more likely that others are going to join you, so you're not going to be alone, and certainly I think in every neighborhood around this city no one is alone when it comes to what ICE is doing."
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Abbey Nystedt lives across the street from where the operation took place and came outside when she heard the commotion.
She and other neighbors say that agents deployed tear gas about a block away from the site of the arrest.
"We were yelling. We were protesting, but there wasn't any physical altercations happening," Nystedt said. "It was really frustrating to see people who were close to the tear gas were in front yards using hoses to get it out of their faces and eyes."
The scene of the operation on Friday was several blocks from an elementary school.
Earlier this month, a court order limited the use of tear gas by federal agents in Chicago.
CBP and ICE have not returned Scripps News' request for comment regarding the details of the operation and the use of tear gas.

Vanderbilt fans celebrate as ESPN's College GameDay returns to Nashville

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 00:26:45 +0000

The wait is over for Vanderbilt fans as ESPN's College GameDay returns to Nashville for just the second time in school history, and this year, the hype is bigger than ever.
The sports show will be live in Nashville from the Vandy campus, with some big-name stars like Kenny Chesney and Dierks Bentley scheduled to perform. Nashville native and Commodores fan Nate Bargatze will serve as this week's guest picker.
But for fans, it's all about winning.
For years, Vanderbilt struggled to fill its stadium and the win column. But not anymore.
This weekend, West End becomes the center of the college football universe as ESPN's College GameDay returns to campus for just the second time in school history.
"It's absolutely surreal. I mean, I was over here since we were a two- or three-win team, but every game and just watching us, you know, get pummeled, and they'll see this team turn around. I mean, under, you know, great coach, Clark Lea and Diego Pavi. I mean, it's just been awesome to see," Jacob Welch said.
Welch, a senior, represents the dedication of fans who have stuck with the Commodores through difficult seasons.
Wyatt Lawn has been transformed into the GameDay stage, even featuring a goal post for those cash-winning kicks during Pat McAfee's Kicking Contest.
Fans like Welch say this weekend is about showing the nation that Commodore spirit runs deep.
"We're in the very front, rain or shine, winning or losing. We're there every single game. We've been through thick and thin. So, to see us now, it just feels kind of almost like we earned it too," Welch said.
Even long-time fans say it's a moment they've waited decades for.
"I am so excited. I was here in 2008 when the last time, and I am just so excited," Lyn Brantley said.
It's more than just football it's about pride, perseverance, and a program finally proving it belongs.
"Anchor down. Anchor down. That's right, Anchor down," Welch said.
The GameDay broadcast runs from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. for those wanting to watch from home and avoid the crowds. Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Blind woman entertains assisted living neighbors, plays seven instruments

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 23:54:00 +0000

A woman's special musical talent has been enjoyed by Stones River Manor in Murfreesboro for 20 years. Now, she's sharing that talent and the story behind an incredible life.
The sound of an organ could faintly be heard in the hallway as Tennie Fitzpatrick played a few songs in her room. Stones River Manor is for independent living, assisted living, and advanced care. Everyone loves passing by Fitzpatrick's door.
"I have never met anyone like Tennie," said resident Jeanetta Clark. "I think she plays seven different musical instruments."
"The gifting of her talents is from up above," added resident Werdna Moss.
"It is quite a talent," said certified nursing assistant Stella McPherson. "Just to be able to listen to her day in and day out is such an amazing quality and gift to us."
In her room, Fitzpatrick switched effortlessly from playing the organ to the autoharp to a clarinet in just a few minutes.
"Although she hasn't seen anything in her life, there isn't anything she won't attempt to do," said Clark.
Fitzpatrick's music means even more to the people who know how she arrived in the world.
"I was in the incubator for eleven weeks and the pure oxygen caused my blindness," Fitzpatrick said, thinking back on the story of her birth. "I was never taken care of after that. My birth mother never took me to the doctor, and I was malnourished."
Fitzpatrick's life changed at seven-years-old when she was paid a visit from a man in the health department named James David Fitzpatrick. He and his wife Mary ended up adopting Fitzpatrick and moving to Shelbyville. Life completely changed in wonderful ways.
"They loved me, and I loved them," Fitzpatrick nodded.
It was with this new family Fitzpatrick discovered her musical ability.
"My adopted mother would take me to the church, and I would run my fingers through the piano keys," Fitzpatrick said. "It came natural."
Fitzpatrick could play by ear and taught herself those seven instruments.
"That's a God-given gift," she said. "He used me to play."
Fitzpatrick actually would have played even more instruments, but her parents were concerned a guitar might callous her fingers and make it harder for her to read braille. Her musicality only got better at the Tennessee School for the Blind.
"The girls in the dormitory sang with me when I played the piano," Fitzpatrick said. "They all gathered around and sang to me. I love having an audience."
Over the years, Fitzpatrick has played at many places for many people.
"I played for weddings, and I played for funerals," she said.
Life started out very hard for Fitzpatrick, but today she plays this organ right under a picture of James David and Mary Fitzpatrick. It's an acknowledgment of the way these two people changed her life.
"As she plays, I think she is remembering some precious memories of many years ago," said Moss.
"When I grow up, I want to be just like Tennie!" laughed Clark.
Do you have a positive, good news story? You can email me at forrest.sanders@newschannel5.com.

Mother of four fears feeding her children as Middle Tennessee SNAP benefits face cuts

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 23:51:29 +0000

Thousands of Middle Tennessee families could lose SNAP benefits as federal funding uncertainty looms, leaving mothers like Cassie McWhirder scrambling to feed their children during the holiday season.
At the Piggly Wiggly in North Nashville, the reality of potential benefit cuts hits close to home. Rose Miller shops there for deals on meat, while longtime cashier Janet McClendon estimates that most families in the underserved community rely on food assistance.
"I say at least 80 out of a 100 most people have food stamps and cards also," McClendon said.
For McWhirder, a mother of four including a two-week-old son, the timing couldn't be worse. Her oldest son's love for superheroes brings joy to their household, but the looming benefit cuts cast a shadow over their daily routine.
"He's got all of them," McWhirder said of her son's superhero collection.
McWhirder learned her food assistance benefits could lapse and relies on them to shop for her three boys and her two-week-old son.
"Especially being the month of Thanksgiving that would be horrible timing. It's starting to get cold outside and I got four kids and they go to different schools one goes to Tennessee School for the Blind and I have a newborn," McWhirder said.
The Tennessee Department of Human Services said unless the federal government reopens, families like McWhirder's can use their October benefits in November but no benefits would be added to their cards starting November 1st.
Gov. Lee said the state can't fund federal food assistance program known as SNAP so McWhirder would be just one of 121,000 people in Middle Tennessee who could go without.
House Democrats are asking Gov. Lee to call a special session so lawmakers can approve emergency funds to help supplement the loss of federal funding.
In Kentucky, Gov. Andy Beshear said the state will cover expenses for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.
The potential November cutoff represents an unexpected challenge for families already stretching their budgets.
"It would definitely hurt us we'd probably have to get some food bank stuff, call some family members," McWhirder said.
In the underserved North Nashville community, families depend on stores like Piggly Wiggly to feed their children, making the potential benefit loss particularly devastating for local residents.
Want to share your story about how SNAP benefits impact your family? We want to hear from you. Email reporter Kim Rafferty at kim.rafferty@NewsChannel5.com and watch the full video report to see how local families are preparing for potential benefit cuts.
In this article, we used artificial intelligence to help us convert a video news report originally written by Kim Rafferty. When using this tool, both Kim and the NewsChannel 5 editorial team verified all the facts in the article to make sure it is fair and accurate before we published it. We care about your trust in us and where you get your news, and using this tool allows us to convert our news coverage into different formats so we can quickly reach you where you like to consume information. It also lets our journalists spend more time looking into your story ideas, listening to you and digging into the stories that matter.

Tennessee hardwood, lumber companies ask Trump administration for retaliatory tariff relief

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 22:19:20 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — More than 450 hardwood companies and lumber mills, including 37 from Tennessee, have written a letter to the Trump administration requesting to be included in any future tariff relief programs to make up for what the industry has lost due to retaliatory tariffs.

The letter cited "extraordinary challenges" that the hardwood and lumber industry are currently facing.

"Prior to 2018, hardwood lumber was the second most exported U.S. product to China, behind only soybeans. When China imposed retaliatory tariffs that year, American hardwood exporters lost half their market share to competitors in Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and elsewhere. Even once those tariffs receded, regaining those markets has proven extraordinarily difficult," the letter reads, in part.

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Brandon Clark, the owner of Clark Lumber Company in Red Boiling Springs and Erin and Clark Hardwoods in Lafayette, told News 2 the lumber industry has faced market disruptions in the past, but the recent retaliatory tariffs appear to be impacting nearly everyone, due to the uncertainty they have created in the market and with their customers.

“It causes a lot of volatility with pricing, with demand, so it makes it challenging on a day-to-day basis when they’re enacting these tariffs, and we’re unsure of the dates," Clark said.

"We ship lumber with a 45 to 60 day transit time, and if those tariffs are enacted in the middle of that transit, then who is responsible for paying for the tariffs?” he added. “It has made it very difficult to be profitable during this time, and that’s the struggle that everyone in our industry is fighting right now."

RELATED: Tennessee among states most vulnerable to tariff risks, study finds

Historically, the biggest customer for Clark Lumber Company was China, which in 2017, accounted for 40% of the company's total exports. Today, that number has dropped to around 7%.

Clark has managed to avoid any layoffs, and his companies have survived up to this point, but he said other mills in the state have been forced to close down.

“We receive auction notices weekly of mills that we have competed with, but the industry is to a point now where we’re almost in the same fight together, so they’re almost colleagues, and we just always wonder which one is going to be next on the list of mill closures," Clark said.

Clark told News 2 being included in a tariff relief program would help offset losses, help businesses find new markets to enter, and hopefully make the industry sustainable again.

Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom

Otherwise, he worries additional retaliatory tariffs and more trade uncertainty could devastate the industry.

“We hope that the elected officials have more information than we do and that they are doing what is best for the country," Clark added. "We want to have that confidence, and while that may be the case for the country as a whole, our industry is at risk of being a casualty.”

President Trump recently proposed sending tariff relief to U.S. farmers and those in the auto industry. So far, he has not mentioned including the hardwood and lumber industry in that program.

Support African American businesses when you fly into Nashville

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 19:33:17 +0000

Trump administration seeks to deport Abrego Garcia to Liberia

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 18:41:26 +0000

The Justice Department floated sending Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Liberia, marking the administration's latest effort to remove the once-deported man amid its ongoing prosecution of him.

The Friday court filing said the West African nation has agreed to take him and argued that the country fit Abrego Garcia’s criteria.

“Although Petitioner has identified more than twenty countries that he purports to fear would persecute or torture him if he were removed there, Liberia is not on that list,” the Department of Justice (DOJ) wrote.

The Trump administration has explored a series of countries as possible deportation destinations after wrongly sending Abrego Garcia to his native El Salvador. An immigration judge in 2019 blocked him from being sent there due to gang threats against his family.

After several months being held in Salvadoran prisons, the Trump administration secured Abrego Garcia’s return, only to hit him with human smuggling charges in connection with a 2022 traffic stop in Tennessee in which he was spotted with numerous men without luggage in the van.

Abrego Garcia has denied wrongdoing and has also sought to dismiss the case, arguing he is being selectively and vindictively prosecuted by the Trump administration given the interest in his story.

A Tennessee-based federal judge backed an initial request for discovery, passing a key hurdle to allow the claim to move forward.

As the case proceeds, the Justice Department has argued immigration authorities still have the right to carry out his deportation, a matter that has also been tied up in federal court in Maryland.

In various filings, the Justice Department has proposed deporting him to Uganda, Ghana and Eswatini, while Abrego Garcia has floated Costa Rica as an option.

Attorneys for Abrego Garcia have previously accused the DOJ of having “spun the globe” to pick locations to “troll” their client.

“Having struck out with Uganda, Eswatini and Ghana, ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] now seeks to deport our client Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Liberia – a country with which he has no connection, thousands of miles from his family and home in Maryland,” attorney Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg said in a statement.

“Costa Rica has agreed to accept him as a refugee, and remains a viable and lawful option. Instead, the government has chosen yet another path that feels designed to inflict maximum hardship. Their actions are punitive, cruel and unconstitutional.”

In the Friday filing, the DOJ argued Liberia should be an amenable choice for Abrego Garcia.

“Liberia is a thriving democracy and one of the United States’s closest partners on the African continent,” they wrote.

“Its national language is English, the same as the country in which Petitioner has resided for the last several years; and it modeled its constitution, which has been in place since 1986 and which provides robust protections for human rights, in large part on the U.S. Constitution. Liberia also is committed to the humane treatment of refugees.”

Gov. Lee warns to expect delay in SNAP benefits

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 17:06:51 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Gov. Bill Lee warned Tennessee residents to expect delays in receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November.

The governor told SNAP recipients to expect a lapse in benefits on their cards beginning Nov. 1. Any remaining benefits from the month of October may still be accessed in November, per U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidance.

According to a release, Gov. Lee said, "Congressional Democrats have not voted to end the government shutdown. The longer Democrats wait to reopen the government, the more delays customers can expect as the program restarts."

Tennessee Democrats call on Gov. Lee to fill federal funding gaps

“Congress has a responsibility to fund the federal government, and while Democrats continue to hold federal dollars hostage, my administration is working with members of the faith community and nonprofit partners to ensure Tennessee families do not go hungry,” continued Gov. Lee. “I share the frustration of hardworking Tennesseans who will be impacted by this temporary lapse, and sincerely hope Democrats will choose to put the American people ahead of politics and reopen the government now.”

More than 690,000 Tennesseans rely on SNAP for nutrition assistance, and the program supports farmers, grocers and retailers across the state’s rural economies.

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

According to the state’s latest budget, Tennessee has more than $3.2 billion in federal money set aside for SNAP benefits. However, there are zero state dollars budgeted to replace those benefits if Washington fails to deliver.

The shutdown may also cause delays in processing applications or renewals.

Safer policing in North Nashville: Community leaders call for transparency and partnership

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:21:53 +0000

NASHVILLE, TN — A collaborative conversation about safer and more transparent policing took place on September 11th at the North Police Precinct, bringing together faith leaders, activists, and law enforcement officials to address the changing dynamics of policing in one of Nashville’s most historic and rapidly transforming communities. The meeting was organized by civil rights activist Reverend Venita Lewis and convened members of the Nashville Police Review Committee, including Pastor Howard Jones, Reverend Venita Lewis, Pastor Barry Barlow, Angel Stansberry, and David Conner.

They were joined by Commander Steven Bowers of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD), Chief Greg Robinson, Tennessee State University, and Alberta Auguste of MNPD in a session that emphasized collaboration over confrontation. The committee’s goals were clear and focused: To promote transparent policing in North Nashville, safer policing practices involving college students, particularly regarding ticketing incidents near Hadley Park, increased African American police presence within the community, and discussion of safety for the homeless in North Nashville.

“This community is aggressively being gentrified,” Rev. Lewis explained. “And unfortunately, the police departments appear to be following that trend. The presence of African American officers in North Nashville has noticeably declined, even as the neighborhood’s demographics continue to shift.”

The tone of the meeting was constructive with both community representatives and law enforcement officials agreeing that safety, fairness, and representation must remain central to public service.

The next meeting is scheduled, Thursday, November 6 at 6 pm. The meeting will be held at Kingdom Café and is open to the public. For more information, call 615-237-1110.

'Chaos in the beef market': Tennessee cattle farmers react to President Trump's idea to import Argentinian beef

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:03:18 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Some Tennessee cattle farmers have been sizzling over recent comments by President Donald Trump about importing more beef from Argentina to lower beef prices for consumers.

“The only price we have that's high is beef, and we’ll get that down," Trump told reporters this week. "One of the things we’re thinking about doing is beef from Argentina."

VIDEO | Argentina beef plan could hurt TN farmers, officials say

The comment sparked backlash from cattle farmers and ranchers across the U.S., including the president of the Tennessee Cattlemen's Association, Gary Dering, who posted the following statement on social media:

"The Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association is extremely concerned by the idea of bringing in more Argentinian beef to influence beef prices. Tennessee farmers need certainty and President Trump’s comments have unfortunately created chaos in the cattle market. Tennessee cattle producers are proud of the beef we provide to our state and the nation, and we hope the President stands with us over Argentinian beef."

Julie Bernard, owner of Bernard Farms in Orlinda, Tennessee, told News 2 the U.S. buying more beef from Argentina likely wouldn't impact her family's farm because they raise and sell their own cattle. However, she doesn't believe it will have much of an impact on beef prices for consumers either.

“Only the four meatpackers are going to be the ones that are going to be saving the money," Bernard said. "I don’t think it’s going to make it to the grocery store."

Bernard explained the biggest challenge farmers have faced in the past decade are sky-high input prices and low payments for their commodities. The reason beef prices are so high in the grocery store, she said, is partly because cattle inventory in the U.S. is the lowest it's ever been.

"The reasons for that is because of the inputs," Bernard said. "Fuel, feed cost, the droughts out west, all of those have impacts on your supply, so cattle farmers are not replacing their herds because right now the price is high if you sell them live, so a lot of people are selling and not replacing.”

Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom

Smaller farms like the Bernard Farms have had to diversify their crops and other commodities to make ends meet. Bernard told News 2 it's more important than ever to support local farms, because soon, there may not be many left.

“With farmland being sold at astronomical amounts at a time, there's not going to be any farms, or small farms left, so it’s very important for us to diversify to keep our young sons still on the farm and be profitable," Bernard said.

Medical professionals prepare for increase in ATV crashes

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 22:33:59 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With some hunting seasons underway and temperatures cooling, medical professionals at Nashville trauma centers have started preparing for an increase in all-terrain vehicle crashes.

“We’ve seen an increase in these type of injuries over September, October. October has been a high month for us,” said Dr. Darrell Hunter, Trauma Director for TriStar Skyline Medical Center.

Highland volunteer firefighter injured in crash while responding to fire

In August, a 17-year-old was killed in Antioch when their ATV collided with an SUV. Looking beyond Tennessee, just last week the CEO of LendingTree died in a solo ATV crash in North Carolina.

“People who ride the ATVs are unprotected a lot of times, and they’re high-speed accidents, so they end with a lot of significant injuries,” Hunt explained. “...We see a lot of significant brain injuries with people unconscious when they come in. We also have had some patients who are paralyzed from their injuries.”

Hunt said ATV, or side-by-side, drivers need to always wear a helmet and other protective gear.

“We see a lot of injuries where patients don’t have a lot of immediate help," Hunt said. "Always let someone know where you are."

Most often, Doctor Hunt said ATV injuries will lead to broken arms or legs. Many of them involve kids: national data shows that roughly 25% of ATV accidents involve people 16 or younger.

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

So far this year, data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reveals there have been 14 deadly crashes involving an ATV. Of those, 11 involved riders who were not wearing either a seatbelt or a helmet.

Last year, there were 19 ATV rider fatalities; only 5 of those riders had on a helmet or seatbelt, according to that same data.

Tennessee Attorney General celebrates federal decision on gender identity-related healthcare rule

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:13:37 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The Tennessee Attorney General's Office celebrated a decision from a Mississippi U.S. District Court about gender-based discrimination in healthcare.

The decision, filed Wednesday, considered a May 2024 rule from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that redefined Title IX prohibitions on discrimination "on the basis of sex" to include gender identity. The federal court found the HHS exceeded its authority by implementing the regulation.

Read the full decision here

"When it enacted Title IX, Congress’s concern was prohibiting sex discrimination in education. It was particularly concerned with inequality that female students experienced," the decision reads, in part. "It did not at that time contemplate gender identity, transgender status, or 'gender-affirming care.'"

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti's Office said in a press release about the decision the rule, among other things, would have required some healthcare providers "to administer unproven and risky procedures for gender dysphoria."

“When Biden-era bureaucrats tried to illegally rewrite our laws to force radical gender ideology into every corner of American health care, Tennessee stood strong and stopped them,” Skrmetti said. “Our fifteen-State coalition worked together to protect the right of health care providers across America to make decisions based on evidence, reason, and conscience. This decision restores not just common sense but also constitutional limits on federal overreach, and I am proud of the team of excellent attorneys who fought this through to the finish.”

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia and West Virginia were a part of the coalition in this case.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: Where to drop off your old medications in Middle TN

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 21:49:50 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — It's that time of year again: the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Department of Health and Tennessee Together are teaming up for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Saturday's events mark the second time this year that state agencies have come together to encourage Tennesseans to turn in expired medications or medications that are no longer needed.

“I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music” coming to the East Tennessee History Center

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 02:34:34 +0000

Knoxville, Tennessee – The Museum of East Tennessee History at the East Tennessee History Center in downtown Knoxville will host a travelling exhibition organized by the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. This exhibition honors the hidden heroines, activists, and commercial success stories of women who have impacted the roots and branches of old-time music in a new special exhibit, I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music, on display October 18, 2025 – April 19, 2026.

“Music, and especially old-time music, is at the heart of many of the resources that we preserve at the East Tennessee History Center,” says Adam Alfrey, Assistant Director for Historical Services. “Hosting this exhibition, which explores women’s roles in the preservation and advancement of old-time music, provides a meaningful pathway to these resources and our shared past.”

Created by a women-led content team, I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music spotlights commercial success stories and iconic musicians like Mother Maybelle and Sara Carter, Ola Belle Reed, Elizabeth Cotten, Lily May Ledford, Hazel Dickens, Etta Baker, and Alice Gerrard. It also includes women who have impacted the genre in other ways, such as Audrey Hash Ham, Florence Reece, Helen White, Anne Romaine, and Bernice Johnson Reagon. By showcasing today’s torchbearers and innovators, the exhibit also illuminates the ways that women are carrying the old-time genre forward and the work still to be done to open it up to other underrepresented communities. Women like Rhiannon Giddens, Martha Spencer, Carla Gover, Suzy Thompson, and Amythyst Kiah are but a few examples of students of old-time who are blazing new trails. The content development team interviewed dozens of contemporary female old-time musicians and industry professionals as part of the exhibit.

I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music is a look into the past, present, and future of the genre and the integral role women played in the development of country music as we know it today,” said Head Curator Dr. René Rodgers, Birthplace of Country Music Museum. “In many cases women’s stories have been left out of old-time music or overshadowed by the achievements of male artists through the impact of gender roles and bias, unequal access to financial independence, not having access to decision-making roles, and more. We’ve done our best to include as many of these fascinating women and their stories as possible in the exhibit, and reserved an area for feedback from the community to tell us who we may have missed.”

Old-time music has been passed down through generations. A commercial career in music may never have occurred to many women tending large families and domestic responsibilities. Women were frequently tied to the home. Others were discouraged or even forbidden by their husbands to keep their music going at home, or to play in public. Some women were influenced by their church leaders to stay away from dancing and the music that surrounded it. In many cases women had fewer opportunities than men to make a viable career from their music. Nonetheless, several found ways to work within these challenges – and move beyond them – in order to pass on old-time music, and the related genres of country and bluegrass, as performing musicians or in other roles in music.

“The first songs I learned on the guitar were those Carter Family songs, taught to me by Helen Carter. Musical matriarchs like her have played such a pivotal role in the development of early country music, and so many of their stories aren’t well known or often told. It’s thrilling to see their contributions to our shared music history honored in this exhibit, so that we can more clearly see the path they have forged for those of us who have followed after.” ~ Rosanne Cash

At its heart, old-time is mountain folk music with strong ties to Appalachia and the diverse peoples who have called it home. It is one of the melting pots of American culture, connecting to multiple influences, instruments and genres, primarily country and bluegrass. Defined by upbeat, instrumental dance tunes played with acoustic instruments, including the fiddle, banjo and guitar, old time music often incorporates dance traditions like clogging, flatfooting and buck dancing.

I’ve Endured: The Women in Old-Time Music serves as a starting point for anyone who wishes to delve deeper into music history and women’s great contributions to the soundtrack of our lives. Extensive related programming, along with an in-depth website, will also be part of the exhibit experience.

This exhibition is presented by Jenny Boyd with support from Donna Davis. For more information, visit https://www.easttnhistory.org/exhibitions/ive-endured-women-in-old-time-music/.

National Civil Rights Museum Celebrates Freedom Award Honorees, Voting Rights Anniversary, and Announces Expansion of The Legacy Experience

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 02:01:10 +0000

Memphis, TN, Oct. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel celebrated courage, compassion, and leadership at its 34th Annual Freedom Award ceremony, honoring three transformative figures whose work continues to shape the modern struggle for justice and equality.

This year’s Freedom Award recipients, Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League; Dr. Velma Lois Jones, Memphis educator and civil rights leader; and Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation, were recognized for their outstanding contributions to civil and human rights at a gala ceremony in downtown Memphis. Actor Larenz Tate served as host, with performances by acclaimed vocalist Wendy Moten and a tribute to the late Fred Smith, Founder and CEO of FedEx.

“These honorees have changed the way we think about leadership, whether in city halls, classrooms, or global communities,” said Dr. Russ Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum. “Each of them models our mission to honor and preserve Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy while inspiring others to create positive social change.”

Honoree Mark Suzman referred to Dr. King’s work toward the Poor People’s Campaign and the Gates Foundation’s work in eradicating poverty. “Where there is poverty, there is no true freedom,” he said.

This year’s ceremony coincided with the Museum’s yearlong observance of the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a milestone that continues to shape the moral conscience of American democracy.

“We honor those who risked everything to protect the sacred right to vote,” said Wigginton. “Even as that right faces new threats and attempts to be diminished, we remain resolute in preserving the truth of our shared history and the power of every citizen’s voice.”

Honoree Velma Lois Jones reminded guests that voter apathy is not an option and that every vote, every voice counts. She cited examples of how she won elected posts to associations by a margin of “three votes.”

During his remarks, Wigginton reminded attendees that the Museum’s mission is not only to preserve history but also to use it as a foundation for truth and progress.

Honoree Mark Morial proposed that every elected official and every student in Tennessee should be required to visit the National Civil Rights Museum. “The Museum is a treasure, not just to Memphis or Tennessee, but to the world,” he said.

The Museum announced that its renovated Legacy Building, located across from the Lorraine Motel, will reopen in Spring 2026. The redesigned space, now known as The Legacy, will extend the civil and human rights story from 1968 to the present, connecting historical milestones to contemporary struggles for equity and democracy.

The Legacy experience will include:

Student engagement and leadership spaces for dialogue and civic learning

Rapid-response exhibitions addressing current social justice issues

Digital storytelling and oral history to preserve firsthand accounts

Revelations around the King assassination and investigation.

A capital campaign is underway to fund enhancements and expand programming that promotes understanding and empathy through community conversations and national outreach.

As part of the Freedom Award occasion, the Museum hosted the Student Forum, presented the Keeper of the Dream Award to Memphis student changemakers, and engaged viewers nationwide in virtual conversations about activism, compassion, and the power of leadership.

For more information, visit freedomaward.org.

About the National Civil Rights Museum
The NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM, located at the historic Lorraine Motel where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, gives a comprehensive overview of the American Civil Rights Movement from slavery to the present. Since the Museum opened in 1991, millions of visitors from around the world have come annually. The Museum is steadfast in its mission to honor and preserve the site of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination. It chronicles the American civil rights movement and tell the story of the ongoing struggle for human rights, serving as a catalyst to inspire action to create positive social change. A Smithsonian Affiliate and an internationally acclaimed cultural institution, the Museum is recognized as a 2019 National Medal Award recipient by the Institute of Museums and Library Services (IMLS), the top national honor for museums and libraries.

Clarksville Branch NAACP Hosts its 69th Freedom Fund Banquet

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:23:28 +0000

Clarksville, TN. – NAACP Clarksville TN Branch – The theme for the 69^th Freedom Fund Banquet is “Celebrating Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence”. The banquet will be held at the Valor Hall Event Center, 105 Walter Garrett Lane, Oak Grove, KY, 42262, November 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. and doors will open at 5:00 p.m. The Branch extends an invitation to the community to come join us in our endeavor to make Clarksville-Montgomery County Tennessee a more cohesive community. The Annual Freedom Fund Banquet is the Branch’s main fundraising event.

Guest speaker for the banquet is the 17th Most Worshipful Grand Master L. Lamont Banks, 33ᵒ. Most Worshipful Grand Master L. Lamont Banks, 33ᵒ is a native Tennessean and husband of Grand Worthy Matron, Dr. Crystal E. Banks of the Excelsior Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA. They are the parents of Trinity, Lamont Jr., and Christian. He began his Masonic travels at the age of twenty-eight (28), August 24, 2002, when he became a member of the legendary Capitol Hill Lodge No. 251, F & AM, in Nashville, TN.

The Clarksville Branch #5582 of the NAACP will usher in this season of giving by adopting the Annie E. Moore Toy Drive as this year’s local charity and will collect unwrapped toys and monetary donations during the event. Martha J. Smith, the organizer and a member of the Excelsior Grand Chapter, initially established the toy drive under the authority of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Tennessee and introduced this charitable drive to spread holiday cheer to numerous children from individuals or families whose income is below a certain threshold. Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Tennessee appreciate the opportunity to extend this annual event to meet the needs of children in the community.

Celebrating One year of the Dr. Ernest “Rip” Patton Jr. North Nashville Transit Center

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 02:03:27 +0000

NASHVILLE – WeGo Public Transit is celebrating the Dr. Ernest “Rip” Patton Jr. North Nashville Transit Center with a Community Day on Saturday, October 11. In the spirit of the commitment Dr. Patton had to North Nashville, the new transit center brings added bus service and new connections, providing neighborhood residents with better access to jobs, healthcare, and education. The public event is an opportunity for people to explore how the transit center also serves as a cultural landmark and community gathering space. The Patton Center officially opened in August of 2024. WeGo made significant route changes in March of 2024 for the new transit center. Since those changes, WeGo has recorded:

A 70% increase in service on the routes involved in the redesign (9, 14, 22, 41, 42, 71, 75, 77)

A 40% increase in ridership on those same routes

2.5 times the number of bus boardings in the area

Seven times as many boardings on Routes 75 & 77 as before

The ridership numbers show that passengers are taking advantage of the new and more frequent crosstown service to make their trips without going downtown.

The Patton Center is an example of what can be accomplished with neighborhood transit centers. Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s Choose How You Move program plans for 12 additional transit centers in neighborhoods across Nashville.

Women We Admire Announces Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2025

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 01:42:16 +0000

NEW YORK, Oct. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2025. Tennessee is recognized for its deep cultural heritage, from the music traditions of country, blues, rock and roll, and gospel to its culinary roots. It is also an economic force, with strengths in healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, finance, technology, agriculture, and tourism. Across these sectors, women leaders are shaping strategy, building institutions, and guiding growth that reaches well beyond the state’s borders.

This year’s awardees represent the caliber of leadership driving progress across these sectors. Among them is Raziel Bravo, Senior Vice President of Strategic Management at GEODIS. Bravo is responsible for the oversight, reporting, and management of the Americas region’s strategic management office. She leads activities related to strategy development, provides key industry insights, supports the identification and targeting of potential acquisitions, and seeks opportunities to optimize the business. Concurrently, she manages product strategy.

We also honor Jennifer Brantley, a Managing Partner at MP&F Strategic Communications. With more than 30 years in public relations and marketing, Brantley has guided strategies for companies across Tennessee and beyond. She has led award-winning local and national campaigns for clients including Kirkland’s, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and Integral Senior Living, shaping communications that support both business goals and community presence.

Finally, we congratulate Rita Dancey, CEO of Maryland Electric Co. Dancey directs a team focused on delivering electrical design and contracting services for commercial and industrial clients. With a lifetime in the electrical industry, she brings a wealth of experience, including boots-on-the-ground service, emergency management, and many big-box retail rollouts, and applies her expertise in estimating, consulting, and management to projects of all sizes.

Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Tennessee for 2025.

Emily Taylor (Dollar General), Rosslyn Cooper (WSP), Carolyn Schneider (Ardent Health Services), Monique Butler (HCA Healthcare), Stephanie Daniel (Fifth Third Bank), Pamela Owen (Deloitte), Raziel Bravo (GEODIS), Brittney Ezell (Keller Williams Realty), Lashell Vaughn (Memphis Light, Gas, and Water), Amy Ware (HCA Healthcare), Staci L. Jackson (LPL Financial), Cici Ebersole (Ducks Unlimited), Brittany N. Cole (Career Thrivers), Rebecca Tolene (Tennessee Valley Authority), Rita Dancey (Maryland Electric Co.), Emily Trapani (Google Fiber), Patricia Bible (KaTom Restaurant Supply, INC), Stefana Rusu (Acxiom), Amy Farrar (Pinnacle Financial Partners), Jennifer Brantley (MP&F Strategic Communications), Robin Everhart (Specialtycare), Jessica Manning (Hattie B’s Hot Chicken), Kate Chinn (MP&F Strategic Communications), Angela Anderson (Novartis), Mona Hodge (Smith Gee Studio), Tammy Henry (Data Facts), Lisa Gosselin (Cars Commerce), Christine Norton (Resi Media), Brigitte Tubbs-Jones (Metro Nashville Public Schools), Amy Culpepper (Robert Half), Maureen Nachtsheim (Zscaler), and many others.

To view the full list, visit https://thewomenweadmire.com/2025/10/the-top-50-women-leaders-of-tennessee-for-2025/

About Women We Admire

Women We Admire provides news and information on today’s women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, medicine, law, and many other fields. We cover a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high and continue their journey towards reaching their full potential. Women We Admire circulates its content to over 70,000 individuals and businesses.

Media Contact

Les Gemmes, Inc. Nashville Chapter hosts the Jewels 2025 Meet and Greet

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 03:41:48 +0000

NASHVILLE, TN — The historic Scarritt Bennett Center came alive with joy, laughter, and inspiration as the Nashville Chapter of Les Gemmes; Incorporated hosted its 2025 Meet and Greet with the Jewels and their parents. This spirited event marked the official start of an exciting new season for the chapter’s signature youth mentoring program Lighting the Path for Girls. A total of 25 vibrant young ladies, ages 13 to 17, were warmly welcomed into the Jewels program, where they will embark on a year of growth, service, and sisterhood. Under the leadership of the Tri-Chairs; Rene’ Whittaker, Patsy Rees and Wanda Miller-Benson, each Jewel is paired with a dedicated mentor from Les Gemmes. This ensures every Jewel receives personal guidance, encouragement, and support. Parents, members, and community guests looked on proudly as the Jewels were introduced, symbolizing the beginning of a journey that promises to shape bright futures.

The Jewels program is carefully designed to prepare participants to be good global citizens. Through life-skills training, mentoring, and community engagement, the girls will gain the confidence and tools needed to succeed in higher education, the workforce, or military service. A special highlight of the program is the etiquette class, where the Jewels will learn poise, social graces, and professional presentation skills—valuable assets that will serve them well throughout life.

In true Les Gemmes spirit, the Jewels will engage in acts of service alongside chapter members, and working within the community on projects that reflect the National President’s Initiatives. These experiences not only benefit others but also cultivate leadership, empathy, and a lasting commitment to service.

The festive Meet and Greet set a bright and hopeful tone for the year. The program will culminate in February 2026 at the 19th Annual Literary Luncheon, where the Jewels will be celebrated for their accomplishments and growth. This grand event will serve as both a showcase of their progress and a shining reminder of the chapter’s mission: empowering young women to thrive, excel, and shine like the Jewels they truly are. The Nashville Chapter of Les Gemmes, Incorporated is led by President Sondrea Tolbert.

Message from BNA: Overnight single-lane closure Monday, Oct. 13

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 03:20:41 +0000

There will be an overnight single-lane closure Monday, Oct. 13 while work is executed for the new dedicated valet and hotel lane that will open Oct. 16 at Nashville International Airport® (BNA®).

The overnight single-lane closure will be from 10 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14 while new signage is installed for the new dedicated valet and hotel lane. Please watch for the work zone and follow signage.

Once the dedicated hotel and valet lane is complete and opens on Oct. 16, those using valet or hotel parking must access Terminal Drive via Donelson Pike or Exit 216B to be positioned to enter the new dedicated lane. Using the incorrect entry point to access valet or hotel parking will require users to circle around Terminal Drive, leading to roadway congestion.

While the work is taking place overnight, it is during fall break, which is the busiest travel time at BNA. We would like to take the opportunity to share the following reminders with travelers during this busy travel season:

Know the parking options available at BNA by visiting flynashville.com and plan ahead of time.

Arrive two hours early for a domestic flight, three hours for an international flight.

Picking up a loved one? Remember it takes time for them to reach the curb from the gate – approximately 15 minutes without a checked bag and approximately 30 minutes with a checked bag.

The Museum of Christian and Gospel Music Now Open

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 19:15:23 +0000

NASHVILLE, TN — The Gospel Music Association has opened a new chapter in its mission of honoring the artists who have shaped Christian and Gospel music, and in helping to promote the music’s message of faith.

The Museum of Christian & Gospel Music has opened its doors on Friday, Oct. 3 at 402 Commerce Street, establishing the first permanent home in Nashville dedicated to Christian and Gospel music.

The 11,000-square-feet new museum, which will also house the Mike Curb GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame, now stands alongside other Nashville music museums including the Country Music Hall of Fame, the National Museum of African-American Music, and the Musicians Hall of Fame, while telling the story of Christian and Gospel artists and the impact the genre continues to have.

The museum, which has been four years in the making, tells a sweeping story, connecting more than 500 historical moments and 300 artists, using videos, photos, artifacts, and interactive displays.

“When we say ‘Gospel music,’ that doesn’t define it musically. That defines the content, the message, and that’s the tie that binds,” says Gospel Music Association president Jackie Patillo, one of the industry visionaries who has spearheaded and championed the development of the museum. Indeed, the museum highlights artists spreading a Gospel message through musical styles ranging from country and Southern Gospel to pop, rap/hip-hop, Latin, soul and more.

The museum’s executive director Steve Gilreath visited over 30 museums in the process of curating and designing the space. He spent the past year searching out and selecting items to highlight in the museum.

“I got some calls right away from people that were like, ‘I want you to come over and clean out my attic or clean out my garage,’” Gilreath recalls. “We’re not cleaning out your attic. I want to take three things.”

Attendees can also engage with the music and artists on a personal level, thanks to interactive spaces that allow them to record their own vocals on classic songs, or even leave video messages to artists to share how songs have impacted them. Listening stations allow attendees to hear many of the genre’s classic songs, while digital video panels throughout the space feature 18 artists, among them Steven Curtis Chapman, Dr. Bobby Jones, and Bill and Gloria Gaither, discussing topics including recording and songwriting.

“I am thrilled that we will now have a museum celebrating Christian and Gospel music right here in Nashville,” industry trailblazer Michael W. Smith said in a statement. “This space will not only honor the trailblazers who came before, but it will also inspire future generations to carry the message of faith and hope through music.” A hand-painted grand piano Smith has played on tours is displayed in the museum.

The opening is timed to coincide with one of the biggest weeks on the Christian music calendar, with the 56th annual GMA Dove Awards set for Oct. 7 at the nearby Bridgestone Arena. The museum recognizes not only the genre’s history but its presence and nods to its future. Many of the artists featured in the museum — including Winans, Lake and Daigle — are among this year’s top GMA Dove Awards nominees.

“The Museum of Christian and Gospel Music is more than just a building — it’s a place where stories of faith, perseverance, and the power of music come alive,” Winans said in a statement. “The heart of Gospel music is to uplift and point people to Jesus, and now we have a beautiful museum where that impact can be celebrated and remembered for years to come.”

Stephen Colbert likens final presidential debate to ‘getting our last wisdom tooth taken out’

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 16:25:33 +0000

‘Donald Trump is the only president who gets marks for good behaviour,’ Jimmy Kimmel quipped

AOC snaps back at Trump's 'unhinged' debate attack

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 06:48:05 +0000

Trump picked out Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez during Thursday night’s debate, saying she ‘knew nothing about the climate’