Tennessee State News

TDOT hosting in-person meetings to discuss proposed I-24 Southeast Choice Lanes project

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:51:49 +0000

The Tennessee Department of Transportation is hosting three in-person public information meetings this week as well as a virtual public meeting for the proposed I-24 Southeast Choice Lanes project.

The purpose is to provide the public with an opportunity to learn more about the proposed project and allow TDOT to gather public input.

The meetings will take place on the following days:

September 30 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Smyrna Event Center, 100 Sam Ridley Pkwy East, Smyrna, TN 37167 October 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Coleman Park Community Center, 384 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37211 October 2 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Southeast Community Center, 5620 Hickory Hollow Pkwy #202, Antioch, TN 37013

The virtual public meeting will be available on the project website beginning September 30, 2025, and will provide the same information and opportunity to provide feedback as the in-person meetings.

Fentress County couple accused of taking thousands from elderly relatives

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:21:41 +0000

FENTRESS COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — A couple in Fentress County is facing charges after the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation claimed they were financially exploiting two elderly relatives.

The TBI began investigating the allegations against Bucky Joe Pierce, 54, in May. According to a release, agents uncovered evidence that Bucky and his wife, Heather Pierce, 49, were taking thousands from two elderly relatives for their own personal gain.

Last week, a grand jury indicted Bucky with eight counts of financial exploitation of elderly or vulnerable adults and Heather with two counts of financial exploitation of elderly or vulnerable adults.

The couple was taken into custody on Monday and booked into the Fentress County Jail. Bucky Pierce has a $300,000 bond, while Heather Pierce is being held on a $150,000 bond.

"The charges and allegations referenced in this release are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law," wrote the TBI.

Trump, Hegseth tell generals 'era of politically correct' leadership ends now

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:21:27 +0000

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared an end to woke culture in the military and targeted other policies of past administrations Tuesday before hundreds of top U.S. military officials who were abruptly summoned to Virginia from around the world.

Hegseth announced new directives for troops that include gender-neutral or male-level standards for physical fitness, while Trump bragged about U.S. nuclear capabilities and said the nation's dangerous cities should be used as "training grounds for our military.

Hegseth had called military leaders to convene at the Marine Corps base in Quantico, near Washington, without publicly revealing the reason until Tuesday morning. Hegseths address largely focused on his own long-used talking points that painted a picture of a military that has been hamstrung by woke policies, and he said military leaders should do the honorable thing and resign if they dont like his new approach.

Meetings between top military brass and civilian leaders are nothing new, but the gathering had fueled intense speculation about the summits purpose given the haste with which it was called and the mystery surrounding it.

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Admirals and generals from conflict zones in the Middle East and elsewhere were summoned for a lecture on race and gender in the military, underscoring the extent to which the countrys culture wars have emerged as a front-and-center agenda item for Hegseths Pentagon, even at a time of broad national security concerns across the globe.

The president also warned that America is under invasion from within.

"Portland, Oregon, where it looks like a war zone," Trump said. "And I get a call from the liberal governor, 'Sir, please don't come in, we don't need you.' I said, well, unless they're playing false tapes, this looks like World War 2. Your place is burning down."

Trump is used to boisterous crowds of supporters who laugh at his jokes and applaud his boasts during his speeches. But he wasn't getting that kind of soundtrack from the generals and admirals in attendance.

In keeping with the nonpartisan tradition of the armed services, the military leaders sat mostly stone-faced through Trumps politicized remarks, a contrast from when rank-and-file soldiers cheered during Trumps speech at Fort Bragg this summer.

During his nearly hour-long speech, Hegseth said the U.S. military has promoted too many leaders for the wrong reasons based on race, gender quotas and historic firsts.

The era of politically correct, overly sensitive dont-hurt-anyones-feelings leadership ends right now at every level, Hegseth said.

That was echoed by Trump, who said the purposes of America military is not to protect anyones feelings. Its to protect our republic.

We will not be politically correct when it comes to defending American freedom, Trump said. And we will be a fighting and winning machine.

Hegseth said he is loosening disciplinary rules and weakening hazing protections, putting a heavy focus on removing many of the guardrails the military had put in place after numerous scandals and investigations

Hegseth said he was ordering a review of the departments definitions of so-called toxic leadership, bullying and hazing to empower leaders to enforce standards without fear of retribution or second guessing.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Trump announces relocation of US Space Command HQ from Colorado to Alabama

He called for changes to the retention of adverse information on personnel records that will allow leaders with forgivable, earnest, or minor infractions to not be encumbered by those infractions in perpetuity.

People make honest mistakes, and our mistakes should not define an entire career, Hegseth said. Otherwise, we only try not to make mistakes.

Bullying and toxic leadership has been the suspected and confirmed cause behind numerous military suicides over the past several years, including the very dramatic suicide of Brandon Caserta, a young sailor who was bullied into killing himself in 2018.

A Navy investigation found that Casertas supervisors noted belligerence, vulgarity and brash leadership was likely a significant contributing factor in (the sailor)s decision to end his own life.

Hegseth used the platform to slam physical fitness and grooming standards, environmental policies and transgender troops while talking up his and Trump's focus on the warrior ethos and peace through strength.

Hegseth said the department has been told from previous administrations that our diversity is our strength, which he called an insane fallacy.

They had to put out dizzying DEI and LGBTQE+ statements. They were told females and males are the same thing, or that males who think theyre females is totally normal, he said, adding the use of electric tanks and the COVID vaccine requirements to the list as mistaken policies.

Hegseth said this is is not about preventing women from serving.

But when it comes to any job that requires physical power to perform in combat, those physical standards must be high and gender neutral, he said. If women can make it excellent, if not, it is what it is. If that means no women qualify for some combat jobs, so be it. That is not the intent, but it could be the result.

Hegseth's speech came as the country faces a potential government shutdown this week and as Hegseth, who has hammered home a focus on lethality, has taken several unusual and unexplained actions, including ordering cuts to the number of general officers and firings of other top military leaders.

Hundreds of Iranians held on US immigration charges to be deported to Iran

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:16:05 +0000

The United States will deport hundreds of Iranians back to Iran in the coming weeks, with the first 120 deportees being prepared for a flight in the next day or two, Iran said Tuesday.

The deportation of Iranians, not yet publicly acknowledged by the U.S. government, comes as tensions remain high between the two countries following the American bombings of Iranian nuclear sites in June.

Meanwhile, the United Nations reimposed sanctions on Iran this past week over its nuclear program, putting new pressure on the Islamic Republic's ailing economy.

The deportations also represent a collision of a top priority of President Donald Trump targeting illegal immigration against a decadeslong practice by the U.S. of welcoming Iranian dissidents, exiles and others since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

As many as 400 Iranians would be returning to Iran as part of the deal with the U.S., Iranian state television said, citing Hossein Noushabadi, director-general for parliamentary affairs at Irans Foreign Ministry. He said the majority of those people had crossed into the U.S. from Mexico illegally, while some faced other immigration issues.

Noushabadi said the first planeload of Iranians would arrive in a day or two, after stopping over in Qatar on the way. Authorities in Qatar have not confirmed that.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | How close is Iran to a nuclear weapon? Experts and officials disagree

The U.S. State Department and the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The New York Times first reported the deportations.

In the lead up to and after Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution, a large number of Iranians fled to the U.S. In the decades since, the U.S. had been sensitive in allowing those fleeing from Iran over religious, sexual or political persecution to seek residency.

In the 2024 fiscal year, for instance, the U.S. deported only 20 Iranians, according to statistics from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Iran has criticized Washington for hosting dissidents and others in the past. U.S. federal prosecutors have accused Iran of hiring hitmen to target dissidents as well in America.

Its unclear exactly what has changed now in American policy. However, since returning to the White House, Trump has cracked down on those living in the U.S. illegally.

Noushabadi said that American authorities unilaterally made the decision without consultations with Iran.

But The New York Times said Tuesday, citing anonymous Iranian officials, that the deportations were the culmination of months of discussions between the two countries.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as well as President Masoud Pezeshkian, both attended the U.N. General Assembly in New York last week as a last-ditch effort to stop the reimposed sanctions. However, Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei boxed in their efforts by describing diplomacy with the U.S. as a sheer dead end.

Speaking to state TV in footage aired Tuesday, Araghchi acknowledged that direct communication from Iran went to the U.S. government during the U.N. visit something he had been careful not to highlight during five rounds of nuclear negotiations with the Americans earlier this year.

With Americans, both directly and indirectly, messages were exchanged, and eventually, we are relieved that we did whatever it was necessary," Araghchi said. "It was clear and evident to us after the interpretation the Supreme Leader made that negotiations with Americans is an obvious dead-end.

Trump ally Gov. Landry urges National Guard deployment across Louisiana cities

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:15:41 +0000

Louisiana's Republican governor asked for National Guard deployments to New Orleans and other cities, saying Monday that his state needs help fighting crime and praising President Donald Trump's decision to send troops to Washington and Memphis.

Gov. Jeff Landry, a Trump ally, asked for up to 1,000 troops through fiscal year 2026 in a letter sent to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. It comes weeks after Trump suggested New Orleans could be one of his next targets for deploying the National Guard to fight crime.

Trump also sent troops in recent months to Los Angeles and his administration has announced plans for similar actions in other major cities, including Chicago and Portland, Oregon.

Landry said his request builds on the proven success of deployments to Washington and Memphis. While Trump has ordered troops into Memphis with the backing of Tennessee's Republican governor, as of Monday night there had yet to be a large-scale operation in the city.

Federal partnerships in our toughest cities have worked, and now, with the support of President Trump and Secretary Hegseth, we are taking the next step by bringing in the National Guard, Landry said.

Leaders in Democratic-controlled states have criticized the planned deployments. In Oregon, elected officials have said troops in Portland are not needed.

In his request, Landry said there has been elevated violent crime rates in Shreveport, Baton Rouge and New Orleans as well as shortages in local law enforcement. He said the states vulnerability to natural disasters made the issue more challenging and that extra support would be especially helpful for major events, including Mardi Gras and college football bowl games.

But crime in some of the state's biggest cities has actually decreased recently, with New Orleans, seeing a particularly steep drop in 2025 that has put it on pace to have its lowest number of killings in more than five decades.

Preliminary data from the city police department shows that there have been 75 homicides so far in 2025. That count includes the 14 revelers who were killed on New Years Day during a truck attack on Bourbon Street. Last year, there were 124 homicides. In 2023 there were 193.

In Baton Rouge, the state capital, has also seen a decrease in homicides compared to last year, according to police department figures. Data also shows, however, that robberies and assaults are on pace to surpass last years numbers.

Another man who was injured in triple shooting at Dallas ICE facility has died, his family says

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:50:51 +0000

A second detainee shot in an attack on a Dallas immigration field office last week has died, his family said Tuesday.

In a statement shared by the League of United Latin American Citizens, the family confirmed that Miguel ngel Garca-Hernndez, 32, succumbed to his injuries after being removed from life support.

The Mexican man was one of three detainees shot in the Sept. 24 attack on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Dallas. That attack left one man dead and two other detainees critically wounded. Officials previously identified the man who was killed in the attack as Norlan Guzman-Fuentes.

Authorities have said the gunman, 29-year-old Joshua Jahn, fired indiscriminately from a nearby rooftop. They said he hated the U.S. government and wanted to incite terror by killing federal agents. No ICE personnel were hurt in the shooting, and Jahn fatally shot himself following the assault.

The attack happened as heightened immigration enforcement has generated a backlash against ICE agents and stirred fear in immigrant communities across the country.

"My husband Miguel was a good man, a loving father, and the provider for our family," Stephany Gauffeny said in the statement. "We had just bought our first home together, and he worked hard every single day to make sure our children had what they needed. His death is a senseless tragedy that has left our family shattered. I do not know how to explain to our children that their father is gone."

Gauffeny is expecting their fifth child, LULAC said.

Congress deadlocked as government shutdown deadline approaches Wednesday

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:35:08 +0000

The federal government could shut down Wednesday morning if Congress doesn't reach a deal on funding legislation. Democrats and Republicans remain deadlocked over health care and spending issues, with both sides dug in on their positions.

The House passed a seven-week funding extension, but Senate Democrats want health care benefits included in any agreement. Democrats are upset over expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies and want the Trump administration to address those subsidies. Without action, Democrats say millions of Americans will face higher insurance premiums in the months and years ahead.

Republicans have issues with those subsidies and the program itself, and are not prepared to make health care part of the current funding debate.

With the House of Representatives not even in Washington, any last-minute compromise would require members to fly back to avoid a shutdown. All indications point toward the first government shutdown in several years.

White House officials believe that a government shutdown is likely.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer responded to the impasse, calling it a "joke shutdown" while criticizing the Republican approach.

"Their bill has not one iota of Democratic input. That is never how we've done this before," Schumer said.

Thousands of federal workers could be furloughed or even laid off during a shutdown. The average length of government shutdowns dating back to the 1970s is eight days, though the last shutdown from 2018 to 2019 lasted 35 days.

Federal workers and military members will receive back pay once the government reopens, but there's no telling how long a shutdown might last. Some financial institutions are offering zero-interest loans for military members concerned about October paychecks.

Different government agencies will be affected differently during a shutdown. The IRS plans to use leftover funds from the Inflation Reduction Act to cover employee pay for at least the first few days. Other agencies will operate with skeleton crews, distinguishing between essential and non-essential workers.

Some services will continue during a shutdown, including Social Security checks and Medicare and Medicaid administration. However, economic reports and data releases will be delayed, potentially frustrating economists and Wall Street.

National parks may close or limit services, affecting families with planned visits and reservations.

The Trump administration has threatened mass firings and furloughs, though it remains unclear whether this is a negotiating tactic or a serious threat that Democrats are calling his bluff on.

Republican leadership in the Senate is expected to bring up bills to avert a government shutdown one more time, while Democrats are expected to reject the Republican proposal and Republicans to reject the Democratic proposal.

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.

Memphis Safe Task Force is active in Memphis

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:00:01 +0000

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- The Memphis Safe Task Force, ordered by President Trump to address crime in the city, is on the ground and preparing to move into the community, sources told WKRN's sister station WREG.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers were spotted on Mullins Station Road near Farm Road at Shelby Farms late Monday afternoon. WREG saw Shelby County sheriff's deputies, agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Memphis Safe Task Force at Mullins Station and Farm Road. WREG photo
Memphis Safe Task Force at Mullins Station and Farm Road. WREG photo
Memphis Safe Task Force at Mullins Station and Farm Road. WREG photo
Memphis Safe Task Force at Mullins Station and Farm Road. WREG photo
Memphis Safe Task Force at Mullins Station and Farm Road. WREG photo

WREG learned that it was an operational briefing, which included local and federal officers, as well as White House representatives.

On Friday, Governor Bill Lee announced that a task force comprising 13 agencies, including the National Guard and 300 additional troopers, would be deployed to Memphis as early as Monday.

He says the Tennessee National Guard will serve a critical support role to local law enforcement as a “force multiplier” alongside the Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. He says this is a long-term strategy and will occur in phases over the next weeks and months.

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris told WREG on Monday that Governor Bill Lee is going against the Constitution by deploying the National Guard.

“The Constitution requires an action by the State Assembly before the National Guard can be deployed. It requires a rebellion, and so none of those things have taken place,” Mayor Lee Harris said. “And so we’re trying to figure out how, legally, any of it is happening.”

Mayor Harris says he will gladly work with the ATF, DEA, and THP, “but the National Guard’s just against the Tennessee Constitution.”

What happened when FBI Director Kash Patel brought guns to New Zealand officials

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:42:26 +0000

On a visit to New Zealand, FBI Director Kash Patel gave the countrys police and spy bosses gifts of inoperable pistols that were illegal to possess under local gun laws and had to be destroyed, New Zealand law enforcement agencies told The Associated Press.

The plastic 3D-printed replica pistols formed part of display stands Patel presented to at least three senior New Zealand security officials in July. Patel, the most senior Trump administration official to visit the country so far, was in Wellington to open the FBIs first standalone office in New Zealand.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | FBI Director Kash Patel spars with lawmakers over release of Epstein files

Pistols are tightly restricted weapons under New Zealand law and possessing one requires an additional permit beyond a regular gun license. Law enforcement agencies didnt specify whether the officials who met with Patel held such permits, but they couldnt have legally kept the gifts if they didnt.

It wasn't clear what permissions Patel had sought to bring the weapons into the country. A spokesperson for Patel told the AP Tuesday that the FBI would not comment.

The pistols were surrendered and destroyed

Inoperable weapons are treated as though theyre operable in New Zealand if modifications could make them workable again. The pistols were judged by gun regulators to be potentially operable and were destroyed, New Zealands Police Commissioner Richard Chambers told AP in a statement Tuesday.

Chambers didnt specify how the weapons had been rendered inoperable before Patel gifted them. Usually this means the temporary disabling of the guns firing mechanism.

Three of New Zealands most powerful law enforcement figures said they received the gifts at meetings July 31. Chambers was one recipient, and the other two were Andrew Hampton, Director-General of the countrys human intelligence agency NZSIS, and Andrew Clark, Director-General of the technical intelligence agency GCSB, according to a joint statement from their departments.

A spokesperson for the spy agencies described the gift as a challenge coin display stand that included the 3D-printed inoperable weapon as part of the design. The officials sought advice on the gifts the next day from the regulator that enforces New Zealands gun laws, Chambers said.

When the weapons were examined, it was discovered they were potentially operable.

To ensure compliance with firearms laws, I instructed Police to retain and destroy them, Chambers said.

James Davidson, a former FBI agent who is now president of the FBI Integrity Project, a nonprofit that seeks to safeguard the bureau from undue partisan influence, has criticized Patel's appointment.

But Davidson said the gift of the replica pistols appeared a genuine gesture from Patel and their destruction was quite frankly, an overreaction by the NZSIS, which could have simply rendered the replica inoperable, he said.

New Zealand has strong gun controls

3D-printed weapons are treated the same as other guns in New Zealand. The country bolstered its gun restrictions following a 2019 white supremacist attack on two mosques in the city of Christchurch, when 51 Muslim worshipers were shot dead by an Australian man who had amassed a cache of semiautomatic weapons legally.

IN OTHER NEWS | VP JD Vance: 'I think we are headed into a shutdown'

The guns Patel gifted to the law enforcement chiefs were not semiautomatic models now prohibited after the Christchurch massacre. But there are a suite of other reasons New Zealanders might not legally be able to possess certain weapons, including the specific permits required for pistols.

New Zealand doesnt have a passionate culture of gun ownership and the weapons have been viewed more dimly since the mass shooting. Gun ownership is enshrined in New Zealand law as a privilege, not a right.

The country isnt short on guns; theyre common in rural areas for pest control. But violent gun crime is rare and many urban residents might never have even seen a firearm in person.

Its uncommon even to see police officers carrying weapons. Front-line officers arent usually armed on patrol and leave their weapons locked in their vehicles.

Patel caused discomfort with China remarks

News of Patels visit caused ripples in New Zealand at the time because the opening of the new FBI field office in Wellington wasnt divulged to news outlets or the public until it had already happened. An FBI statement in July said the move aligned New Zealand with FBI missions in other Five Eyes intelligence-sharing nations, which also include the United States, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.

The office would provide a local mission for FBI staff who have operated with oversight from Canberra, Australia, since 2017, the statement said.

Public records disclosed to local news outlets this month revealed that Patel met with and dined with a more than a dozen senior public servants and elected officials, including Cabinet ministers, during his visit. It wasnt immediately clear Tuesday how many officials received the pistols as gifts.

Patel had already provoked mild diplomatic discomfort in Wellington by suggesting in remarks supplied to reporters that the new FBI office aimed to counter Chinas influence in the South Pacific Ocean, where New Zealand is located. The comments prompted polite dismissal from officials in Wellington, who said the bolstered FBI presence was primarily to collaborate on child exploitation and drug smuggling crimes. Beijing decried Patels remarks.

As Tennessee farmers face soybean losses, federal government weighs bailout

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:40:11 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennessee soybean farmers could see some financial relief from the federal government after losing out on sales because of tariffs, but some said they'd rather have access to a free market over cash.

According to the American Soybean Association, China — which used to be U.S. soybean farmers' biggest customer — has not made a single purchase since May due to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump's administration. While the trade war with China may seem like a world away, the impact has hit Tennessee soybean farmers close to home.

“China has long been our biggest customer, and this has cut into our ability to sell soybeans to them," Alan Meadows, a Tennessee farmer and director with the American Soybean Association, said.

According to the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, soybean losses are projected at nearly $110 million for 2025. A report by AgroLatam estimated that farmers who plant 3,000 acres stand to lose $250,000 just this season.

"When you’ve got a product that you’re having a hard time selling, the value of it goes down," Meadows said. "We're dealing with low prices — just really nowhere to move our product, therefore, the price in the end, your profit loss, it’s not a good thing."

Meadows told News 2 the trade war isn't the only problem farmers currently face. High input prices and other challenges, including weather and inflation, have created a perfect storm.

Late last week, President Trump announced his administration would consider using money the federal government made from the tariffs to fund a bailout for farmers.

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

“We’re going to take some of that tariff money that we made — we’re going to give it to our farmers ... We’re going to make sure that our farmers are in great shape," Trump told reporters.

While farmers are struggling financially, Meadows said a bailout isn't the answer.

“As a farmer, I would tell you first and foremost, all we want is fair access to markets around the world," Meadows said. "We’re never looking for bailout money, whatever. We really just want a free, fair, open market to be able to move our product in so that we can continue to sell soybeans in the markets that we’ve sold into for several years now.”

US government on brink of first shutdown in almost seven years amid partisan standoff in Congress

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:17:46 +0000

A partisan standoff over heath care and spending is threatening to trigger the first U.S. government shutdown in almost seven years, with Democrats and Republicans in Congress unable to find agreement even as thousands of federal workers stand to be furloughed or permanently laid off.

The government will shut down at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday if the Senate does not pass a House measure that would extend federal funding for seven weeks while lawmakers finish their work on annual spending bills. Senate Democrats say they wont vote for it unless Republicans include an extension of expiring health care benefits, among other demands, while President Donald Trump and Republicans are refusing to negotiate at all, arguing that it is a stripped down, clean bill that should be noncontroversial.

It was unclear, so far, if either side would blink before the deadline.

Its now in the presidents hands, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said Monday after a meeting with Trump at the White House that yielded little apparent progress. He can avoid the shutdown if he gets the Republican leaders to go along with what we want.

Vice President JD Vance, who was also in the meeting, said afterward, I think were headed into a shutdown, because the Democrats wont do the right thing.

While partisan stalemates over government spending are a frequent occurrence in Washington, the current impasse comes as Democrats see a rare opportunity to use their leverage to achieve policy goals and as their base voters are spoiling for a fight with Trump. Republicans who hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate will likely need at least eight votes from Democrats to end a filibuster and pass the bill with 60 votes, since Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky is expected to vote against it.

No agreement at the White House

Trump had shown little interest in entertaining Democrats demands on health care, even as he agreed to hold a sit-down meeting Monday with Schumer, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.

As he headed into the meeting, Trump made it clear he had no intention to negotiate on Democrats current terms.

Their ideas are not very good ones, Trump said.

It was Trumps first meeting with all four leaders in Congress since retaking the White House for his second term, and he did more listening than talking, Jeffries told House Democrats at the Capitol afterward, according to a lawmaker who attended the private caucus meeting and requested anonymity to discuss it.

Schumer said after the closed-door meeting that they had had candid, frank discussions with Trump about health care. Vance also said Trump found several points of agreement on policy ideas.

Schumer said Trump was not aware of the potential for health insurance costs to skyrocket once the subsidies end Dec. 31.

But Trump did not appear to be ready for serious negotiations. Hours later, Trump posted a fake video of Schumer and Jeffries taken from footage of their real press conference outside of the White House after the meeting. In the altered video, a voiceover that sounds like Schumers voice makes fun of Democrats and Jeffries stands beside him with a cartoon sombrero and mustache. Mexican music plays in the background.

Jeffries posted in response that Bigotry will get you nowhere.

He added, We are NOT backing down.

Expiring health care subsidies

Democrats are pushing for an extension to Affordable Care Act tax credits that have boosted health insurance subsidies for millions of people since the COVID-19 pandemic. The credits, which are designed to expand coverage for low- and middle-income people, are set to expire at the end of the year.

We are not going to support a partisan Republican spending bill that continues to gut the health care of everyday Americans, Jeffries said.

Thune has pressed Democrats to vote for the funding bill and take up the debate on tax credits later. Some Republicans are open to extending the tax credits, but they want to place new limits on them.

Were willing to sit down and work with them on some of the issues they want to talk about, Thune told reporters at the White House, adding, But as of right now, this is a hijacking of the American people, and its the American people who are going to pay the price.

A crucial, and unusual, vote for Democrats

Democrats are in an uncomfortable position for a party that has long denounced shutdowns as pointless and destructive, and its unclear how or when it would end. But party activists and voters have argued that Democrats need to do something to stand up to Trump.

Some groups called for Schumers resignation in March after he and nine other Democrats voted to break a filibuster and allow a Republican-led funding bill to advance to a final vote.

Schumer said he voted to keep the government open because a shutdown would have made things worse as Trumps administration was slashing government jobs. He says things have changed since then, including the passage of the massive GOP tax cut bill this summer that reduced Medicaid.

Some of the Democrats who voted with Schumer in March to keep the government open were still holding out hope for a compromise. Michigan Sen. Gary Peters said Monday that there is still time before the early Wednesday deadline.

A lot can happen in this place in a short period of time, Peters said.

Shutdown preparations begin

Federal agencies were sending out contingency plans if funding lapses, including details on what offices would stay open and which employees would be furloughed. In its instructions to agencies, the White House has suggested that a shutdown could lead to broad layoffs across the government.

Russ Vought, Trumps budget director, told reporters at the White House that a shutdown would be managed appropriately, but it is something that can all be avoided if Senate Democrats accepted the House-passed bill.

Before joining the administration, Vought had advised hardline conservatives in Congress to use the prospect of a shutdown to negotiate for policy concessions. But on Monday, he berated Democrats for engaging in a similar ploy.

This is hostage taking. It is not something that we are going to accept, he said.

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Nashville Public Library launches free music class program

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:17:01 +0000

Nashville Public Library is turning up the volume on community learning with the launch of a full year of free music programming. It's open to all ages and skill levels.

The initiative offers more than just classes. Participants can check out a guitar, ukulele or even a keyboard from the library to use during lessons and continue practicing at home.

You cant be Music Citys library without music, said NPL Director Terri Luke. We are excited to kick off a new year of music programming with local community organizations, and we are proud to make musical learning and discovery accessible to everyone in Nashville.

Classes will roll out monthly through December 2026 and include a mix of formats:

Multi-week courses with professional instructors One-time drop-in workshops Songwriting, music production, and beat-making sessions Instrument petting zoos designed for children

Through partnerships with local groups like Youth Empowerment through Arts and Humanities (YEAH) and Southern Word, students will also collaborate, compose and perform new music.

Teens can continue to explore music technology through Studio NPL, the librarys hub for creative learning, where mentors from the music industry provide hands-on guidance in music production and instrument use.

To get started, visit the librarys events calendar to browse upcoming music classes. Registration is free, but space and instrument availability are limited. Interested participants can sign up online or at any branch.

Tina Turner statue unveiled in Brownsville

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:09:50 +0000

A tribute to a Tennessee-born rock icon has arrived. A statue of Tina Turner has just been unveiled in Brownsville.

The unveiling took place during the Tina Turner Heritage Days festival. Just before the unveiling, fans gathered.

"So, who's the actual #1 Tina Turner fan?" I asked a group.

All of their hands shot up.

"I am!" shouted Larry Edwards. "I'm dressed as Tina!"

Edwards would be a tough one to beat.

"I'm also known as Hot Chocolate," he continued. "I've been performing on the Las Vegas strip for 35 years. I could do Rolling on the River in my sleep!"

It was May 2023, I drove to Nutbush. This is where Anna Mae Bullock grew up. She would later become known to the world as Tina Turner. That drive to Nutbush came one day after Tina died. Growing up, Tina was often in neighboring Brownsville. That includes her years attending and playing basketball at Carver High. After her death, some in that community began talking about the need for a tribute to Tina.

"We have a great opportunity to honor someone who deserves it," said Brownsville Mayor William Rawls.

A place was set, Brownville's Heritage Park. It was announced a seven-foot, nine-inch statue wound be funded by Ford Motor Company.

"People from all over the world will come and see this," said Marianne Dunavant with Ford. "We're preserving the history of this community, and Tina Turner is from this area."

Sculptor Fred Ajanogha was hired for the job.

"When we see her hand holding the mic, there is her finger [raised]," Ajanogha explained. "I used that to explain there is only one Tina Turner."

"She took on the world," Rawls told the crowd gathered for the unveiling. "She became something great, a one word icon. Tina. With faith, with work, with determination, she became something we can all be proud of, a winner on the stage of the world."

The voice of Tina Turner was first heard by many 65 years ago with A Fool In Love. From there, she drew a fanbase that crossed racial and generational barriers. She's still bringing people together. How does Tina continue to do that?

"She's just mesmerizing!" Edwards said.

It's that, but it's also her story, a domestic violence survivor who went on to one of the great comebacks in rock history.

"It's a story of resilience," Rawls continued. "She came from humble beginnings and became the queen of rock n' roll."

So back to where we started. Who is the #1 Tina Turner fan?

"All of us! All of us!" Edwards said. "We're one family."

Do you have a positive, good news story? You can email me at forrest.sanders@newschannel5.com.

How would a government shutdown affect Tennessee?

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 22:33:48 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — As a possible government shutdown looms, you might be asking yourself: what does that mean for me?

According to the Associated Press, congressional leaders met Monday in an effort to avoid the shutdown, which is due in part to Democrats' demands on healthcare. The deadline to avoid a shutdown is Wednesday. As of publication, it's uncertain how those late negotiations have gone; a few things will happen across Tennessee if the government shuts down. Here's what you can expect:

Your neighbors might be furloughed

The most recent report from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and the Office of Management and Budget stated that in Sept. 2024, there were 32,574 federally-employed civilians in Tennessee. It's unclear how much that number may have changed within the past year due in part to federal layoffs and reinstatements, but it's possible that some of the federal workers within the state could be affected by the shutdown — especially after the White House OMB sent a memo "to prepare for potential mass firings in the event of a shutdown," according to News 2's partner The Hill.

Even if not furloughed, your neighbors may have to report to work without pay.

Your experience at BNA could be a little different

In advance of the possible shutdown, the Nashville International Airport released a statement about how operations could shift. BNA officials noted that the Federal Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are all agencies that could be affected by a shutdown. However, the airport's shutdown plan stressed that "airports do not anticipate immediate impacts to day-to-day operations" because most federal workers have been deemed essential, or exempt.

BNA's shutdown protocol explains that means that "essential" workers for air traffic control and on-call accident investigations would have to report for duty without pay. Aviation rulemaking, hiring for air traffic control and law enforcement assistance support would be furloughed. Additionally, CBP officers and contractors who have to repair and maintain screening equipment would also have to report to BNA without pay. TSA screening and other border security measures would be considered "exempt" and continue despite the shutdown.

You may have to reschedule your visit to a national park

Last week, the Associated Press reported that a group of former national park superintendents has called on leaders to close the parks in the event of a shutdown, citing previous instances of vandalism and the destruction of wildlife habitat during previous shutdowns when parks stayed open. During the most recent 35-day government shutdown from 2018 to 2019, national parks remained open with what News 2's partner The Hill called a "bare-bones staff."

There are two designated national parks in Tennessee: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Additionally, the National Park Service operates several historical sites across the Volunteer State, including the Natchez Trace, Stones River and Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.

Your WIC program benefits could be paused

Although the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program would initially continue, both those benefits and the Women, Infants, and Children program could be at risk if the shutdown is extended. WKRN's partner The Hill, citing RealClearPolitics, reported "that an unnamed senior Trump administration official said WIC could quickly run out of funding in October."

Other direct payments, like Medicare, Medicaid and veterans disability, would continue to be paid as usual — but there could be delays in customer service or administration, per The Hill.

UTK professor responds after being suspended over Charlie Kirk comments

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:25:12 +0000

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — A series of emails shows how a University of Tennessee, Knoxville professor responded after being suspended for comments about Charlie Kirk.

On September 15, UTK Chancellor Donde Plowman placed Assistant Professor of Anthropology Dr. Tamar Shirinian on administrative leave pending termination proceedings, saying that "no statement endorsing a campus shooting can be acceptable."

Shirinian responded in a letter dated September 22, apologizing for her comment, calling it "ineloquent and heartless." She said her words came from anger and grief, and now haunt her. She added that she would not have made them had she known they would be "leaked into the public." However, she said that her post, while "insensitive," did not endorse violence.

Shirinian strongly condemned political violence in the letter, saying it never solves social problems. She said that, while she despised "his bigoted, often hateful rhetoric," Kirk didn't deserve to be killed for what he said.

As context, the professor added that she was an Armenian woman, descended from genocide survivors, and as such, objected to some of Kirk's comments, one of which she said "mocked" those who died in the war in Gaza, which some experts have called a genocide. She also criticized many of Kirk's other comments, which she listed in the letter.

Response to Chancellor Plowman September 22 2025[48]Download

"As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and a person who prides themselves on their humanity (though, admittedly, my comment was far from humane), I was disgusted by things Mr. Kirk said and got his followers to believe. I wrote that 'the world is better off without him in it.' I believe that the world is better off without messages of bigotry and hate. Such a statement is not a 'call to action.' When I wrote that 'his kids are better off living in a world without a disgusting psychopath like him,' I was thinking about my own child and what it means for children in America today to be growing up with so much hate speech, hateful ideas, and active endorsements for intolerance and injustice. I am afraid for my child to live in a world where victims of a genocide can be mocked openly and publicly and where that mockery receives praise; a world where trans people are told that they are living a 'foundational lie' (as he posted on X on April 20, 2023)."
Dr. Tamar Shirinian

Shirinan also said that Kirk threatened her profession with the website Professor Watchlist, which compiled entries from students who objected to certain courses. Shirinan said that those professors on the list often received death threats and had private information leaked. She said that Kirk had the right to free speech to express such ideas.

Shirinan said she received hate mail in response to her comments, including death threats and offensive language and that her information was doxed.

She also cited another UT professor who said, "run them down" with a video of protestors stopping traffic, yet was not disciplined. Shirinan said she was "at a bit of a loss" about why the university would punish her for her comments but not punish him.

Shirinan criticized UT System President Randy Boyd and other leaders for failing to speak out against Kirk's "bigoted" rhetoric or the rhetoric of a particular man, whom she quoted but did not name, who she said endorsed violence.

"The only conclusion that I can draw, if I were to be honest, is that they are either scared of him or they agree with him," she said.

She said that she will appeal if not allowed to return.

Two East Tennessee State University professors were also placed on administrative leave, and a Middle Tennessee State University employee was fired over comments on Kirk.

Dolly Parton postpones Las Vegas concerts amid 'health challenges'

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:44:49 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) -- Tennessee icon Dolly Parton turned to social media Sunday to announce the postponement of her upcoming concerts in Las Vegas, saying she's been dealing with some "health challenges" and her doctors told her she needs to have a few procedures.

"As I joked with them, it must be time for my 100,000-mile check-up, although it's not the usual trip to see my plastic surgeon!" Parton said in a statement released on Sunday, Sept. 28.

According to Parton's post, given the situation, she won't be able to rehearse and put together the show she wants her fans to see.

"You pay good money to see me perform, and I want to be at my best for you. While I'll still be able to work on all of my projects from here in Nashville, I just need a little time to get show ready, as they say," the musician wrote. "And don't worry about me quittin' the business because God hasn't said anything about stopping yet. But, I believe He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you. I love you and thank you for understanding."

The post included a list of dates for "Dolly: Live in Las Vegas" that have been pushed from this December to next September:

Thursday, Dec. 4 to Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026
Saturday, Dec. 6 to Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026
Sunday, Dec. 7 to Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026
Wednesday, Dec. 10 to Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026
Friday, Dec. 12 to Friday, Sept. 25, 2026
Saturday, Dec. 13 to Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026

Per the statement, tickets will be valid for the new dates, refunds will be available, and ticket purchasers will receive more instructions via email.

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

This news comes less than two weeks after Parton was absent from the event announcing Dollywood's new attraction, "Night Flight Expedition." Dollywood President Eugene Naughton shared a video with the crowd, allowing the park's namesake to address the situation.

“I had a little problem, I had a kidney stone that was causing me a lot of problems, turned out [it had] given me an infection, and the doctor said, ‘You don’t need to be travelling right this minute, so you need a few days to get better,’ so he suggested I not go to Dollywood today, but I’m there with you in spirit,” Parton said in the video aired at the Sept. 17 event.

According to Parton's website, the limited-run engagement in Las Vegas was set to have six shows at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace from Dec. 4 through Dec. 13. This "hit-driven concert event" would have been Parton's first extended run in 32 years, weaving together seven decades of classic hits and fan favorites, per the site.

Things to know about federal law enforcement activity in Chicago, Portland, Memphis

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 03:37:22 +0000

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Armed federal agents patrolled Chicago’s downtown streets on Sunday and President Donald Trump called up 200 National Guard troops for deployment in Portland, Oregon, a move strongly opposed by the governor that immediately prompted a lawsuit saying Trump overstepped his authority.

The latest examples of creeping federal law enforcement and military presence in U.S. cities occurred as Memphis prepares for the arrival of additional federal authorities, including immigration and drug enforcement agents, that Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee says he expects will happen this week.

In Chicago on Sunday, dozens of armed federal agents, in full tactical gear, walked the streets of some of the city's most prominent tourist and shopping areas. That comes amid a surge of immigration enforcement that began early this month, including repeated conflict at an ICE building in Broadview, west of Chicago, where federal authorities on Friday and Saturday fired pepper balls and tear gas at protesters.

Trump's troop order came a day after he said on social media that he was directing the Department of Defense to “provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland.” Trump said the decision was necessary to protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities. Gov. Tina Kotek said Trump's description was a false narrative meant to spur conflict.

The moves follow Trump’s crime crackdown in the District of Columbia and actions in Los Angeles in response to immigration protests that turned violent with the arrival of troops.

Here's a rundown of potential and current federal law enforcement activity in Chicago, Portland and Memphis.

Chicago

On Sunday, federal agents marched along Michigan Avenue, the Chicago River and upscale neighborhoods, attracting attention from shoppers and families dining at sidewalk cafes. Many used phones to record. Activists also trailed the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents, blowing whistles and shouting.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker blasted the sudden physical show of force.

“While Chicagoans and visitors are enjoying another gorgeous Sunday, they are being intimidated by masked federal agents flaunting automatic weapons for no apparent reason,” Johnson said in a statement.

Pritzker echoed the sentiment.

“This is not making anybody safer — it’s a show of intimidation, instilling fear in our communities and hurting our businesses,” Pritzker said in a statement.

Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol agent central to the Los Angeles immigration crackdown, was among the agents who walked several miles near downtown.

Federal officials have said the Chicago surge was intended to arrest “the worst of the worst” people in the country illegally and with criminal records. Bovino told The Associated Press that agents had made “several arrests” but declined to give specifics on whether the patrols downtown were aimed at specific people.

“We’ve always got a target that’s anyone who is here illegally,” Bovino said.

Over the weekend, tension rose outside an ICE building in suburban Broadview about 12 miles (19 kilometers) west of Chicago. On Friday, agents repeatedly fired chemical agents toward a crowd of over 100 protesters after some of the group attempted to block a car from driving down a street toward the ICE building. Pepper bullets and tear gas canisters went into the crowd, most of them standing away from the fence and not blocking traffic.

Protesters and reporters described similar scenes on Saturday.

Broadview’s mayor criticized ICE for actions she said have endangered local police, firefighters, residents and protesters. Broadview police also launched a criminal investigation of an “unprovoked attack” on the vehicle of a WBBM-TV Chicago reporter, alleging a chemical munition was fired by immigration agents.

In previous weeks, protesters had also tried to block agents’ vehicles from moving in or out of a yard next to the building.

Activists and family members of detainees have raised concerns in recent days that the facility meant to process arrestees is a de facto detention center plagued by inhumane conditions.

Trump previously threatened to send the National Guard into Chicago but has yet to follow through.

Portland

Trump said he ordered the 60-day deployment of Oregon National Guard troops to deal with “violent protests” that threaten the security of immigration detention facilities and other federal property.

He said the protests “constitute a form of rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.”

Protesters at recent demonstrations have numbered in the dozens and focused on the area around a single ICE building. Some federal agents have been injured and several protesters have been charged with assault. Some demonstrators also say they have been injured.

Kotek talked to Trump on Saturday and said the deployment was unnecessary. She refused to call up any Oregon National Guard troops and so Trump did so himself in an order to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

“Putting our own military on our streets is an abuse of power and a disservice to our communities and our service members,” Kotek said. “And it is unlawful. And it will make Oregonians less safe.”

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said he filed a lawsuit in Oregon U.S. District Court against Trump, Hegseth and others on behalf of the state and the city of Portland. It seeks an injunction blocking any deployment on the grounds that Trump doesn't have authority because the situation doesn't constitute an invasion or rebellion or a situation where federal laws can't otherwise be executed.

“Oregon communities are stable, and our local officials have been clear: we have the capacity to manage public safety without federal interference,” Rayfield said . “Sending in 200 National Guard troops to guard a single building is not normal. If you had a concern about safety at your own home, you’d make a few calls and fill the gaps — not call in an army.”

Memphis

Trump said earlier this month that he was creating a task force of federal law enforcement agencies to combat crime in Memphis. The city has experienced high numbers of violent crimes such as carjackings and homicides in recent years, but both Democratic and Republican officials have noted that the majority-Black city is seeing decreases this year in some crime categories.

Lee, the governor, has publicly said he would not expect more than 150 National Guard members to be sent to Memphis, though he’s said the numbers aren’t solidified. The city said Friday there won’t be tanks. The Guard troops won’t be making arrests and won't be armed unless local authorities request that, Lee said Friday.

It’s unclear when Guard members will arrive. Lee also said 300 Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers will be in the region.

Latinos in Memphis have expressed concern that ICE agents will increase their presence in Memphis and detain people who are in the country legally.

On Saturday, dozens of people marched to a plaza in front of City Hall to protest the law enforcement surge. Speakers at a news conference said that, instead of federal troops and agents, Memphis needs more funding for education, crime prevention, youth services and hospitals.

Oregon officials have made similar comments.

Tareen reported from Chicago.

Oregon moves to No. 2 behind Buckeyes in AP poll; Rebels, Sooners join top 5; Alabama back in top 10

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 21:33:45 +0000

(AP) -- The University of Oregon moved up to No. 2 in The Associated Press college football poll on Sunday, the University of Mississippi earned its highest ranking since 2015, the University of Alabama jumped back into the top 10, and the University of Virginia was in the Top 25 for the first time in six years in the wake of a volatile weekend in which four top-10 teams lost.

Ohio State University won at the University of Washington and remains No. 1 for the fifth straight week. The Buckeyes received 46 first-place votes, six fewer than a week ago, and their 37-point lead over Oregon is the closest margin between the top two teams since the preseason poll in mid-August.

Oregon's two-overtime win at Pennsylvania State University earned the Ducks 16 first-place votes, 15 more than last week, and gave them their highest ranking since they were No. 1 for two months last year.

The University of Miami, which had an open date, slipped one spot to No. 3 and was followed by Ole Miss and idle University of Oklahoma. The No. 4 Rebels got a nine-rung promotion for beating LSU and have their highest ranking since they were No. 3 in late September 2015. Louisiana State University fell to No. 13, swapping places with Ole Miss.

Texas A&M University, Penn State, Indiana University Bloomington, the University of Texas, and Alabama round out the top 10.

Alabama, which had been out of the top 10 since losing its opener against Florida State University by two touchdowns, has won three straight after beating the University of Georgia for the 10th time in 11 meetings and ending the Bulldogs' 33-game home win streak. No. 12 Georgia has its lowest ranking since it was No. 12 on Dec. 6, 2020. It's just the second poll the Bulldogs have been out of the top 10 since 2021.

The losses by Penn State, LSU and Georgia marked the first time since 2016 that three top-five teams lost the same week in the regular season.

Florida State's loss at Virginia was the latest development in an up-and-down season for the Seminoles. They went from unranked to No. 14 for beating 'Bama, were in the top 10 for three weeks and plunged 10 spots to No. 18 this week.

Two schools from the Volunteer State are still on the list. The University of Tennessee is still No. 15 for the fourth week in a row following its 41-34 overtime victory against Mississippi State University. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt University jumped from No. 18 to No. 16 after winning 55-35 against Utah State University.

In and out

No. 24 Virginia, not listed on any ballots in the previous poll, was rewarded for beating its highest-ranked opponent since then-No. 4 Florida State in 2005. The Cavaliers are 4-1 for a second straight season for the first time since 2003-04.

No. 25 Arizona State University's come-from-behind victory over Texas Christian University returned the Sun Devils to the Top 25 after a three-week absence.

The University of Southern California (21) and TCU (24) dropped out.

Poll points

— Week 5 marked the second time this season that four top-10 teams lost. It also happened in Week 1, but three of the four top-10 teams had to lose that week because there were three top-10 matchups.

— Ole Miss' nine-spot rise into the top five was the biggest by any team since the Rebels jumped 12 spots to No. 3 for beating Alabama in 2015.

— Indiana has been the fastest riser over the past month, moving up 15 rungs since Week 1. Over that span, Oklahoma and Texas A&M have each risen 13 spots.

Conference call

SEC (10) — Nos. 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19.

Big Ten (6) — Nos. 1, 2, 7, 8, 20, 22.

Big 12 (4) — Nos. 11, 14, 23, 25.

ACC (4) — Nos. 3, 17, 18, 24.

Independent (1) — No. 21.

Ranked vs. ranked

Miami at Florida State: It will be the 27th time the Hurricanes and Seminoles face off as ranked teams. Miami is 15-11 in those games but Florida State has won the last five such contests, the last of which came in 2016.

Vanderbilt at Alabama: The Crimson Tide will be looking for payback. Vanderbilt's 40-35 win as a 23-point underdog last season marked the Commodores' first over a No. 1 team and was widely regarded as the 2024 upset of the year.

___

AP Sports Writer Tim Reynolds in Miami contributed to this report.

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Timeline of the Texas yogurt shop cold case investigation

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 21:17:03 +0000

AUSTIN, Texas (KXAN) — Austin police have linked the deaths of four teenage girls at a yogurt shop in Texas' capital city in 1991 to Robert Eugene Brashers, a serial killer and rapist known to have murdered at least two women and one 12 year-old girl.

On Dec. 6, 1991, four teenage girls were found dead inside the “I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt!” shop along a bustling business road in north Austin. All four girls were found bound and stacked on top of each other -- each shot in the head. Some had been sexually assaulted.

The case was never solved, and it's become one of Texas' most well-known cold cases. Thirty-four years later, the case is back in the spotlight after DNA and ballistics testing identified Brashers as the suspect, according to Austin Mayor Kirk Watson's office.

Though Brashers had a notable record of violent crimes, his name was relatively unknown until 2018, when DNA testing tied him to the murders of two women and a girl (one of the women’s 12 year-old daughter, who he raped) in the early 1990s. He was also named in the rape of a 14 year-old Tennessee girl in 1997, per reporting by News 2’s sister station, WREG, in Memphis.

Brashers died by suicide after a 1999 standoff with police at a Missouri motel. During the incident, Brashers took his wife, daughters and stepdaughter hostage before ultimately shooting himself. His death was ruled a suicide though he died days later from his injuries.

News 2's sister station, KXAN, gathered information surrounding the developments that were made in the yogurt shop case over the course of a nearly 34-year investigation.

Timeline

1990s

Dec. 6, 1991: Police found four teenage girls bound, gagged, and burned, some atop each other, at the I Can't Believe It's Yogurt! shop on Anderson Lane. They were later determined to have been raped and murdered.

December 1991: Police discovered a gun on Maurice Pierce a few days after the murders. The event became a catalyst for pursuing Pierce, Forrest Welborn, Robert Springsteen, and Michael Scott, the four defendants in the case.

1992-1998: Investigators continued to pursue leads.

Sept. 9, 1999: Scott talked to police and was interrogated for more than 18 hours, and police said his confession explained it all: The boys were trying to rob the yogurt shop when it turned deadly. Scott implicated Springsteen, who pointed the finger back at Scott later. (Defense attorneys later alleged that investigators fed Scott details that he repeated under pressure, including how he held the gun to the girl's head. Defense attorneys claimed it was a coerced confession.)

Sept. 14, 1999: Scott gave police a written statement about what happened at the yogurt shop the night of the murders.

Oct. 6, 1999: Police arrested the four men.

Dec. 14, 1999: After a five-hour videotaped interview confession from Springsteen and Scott's written statement, District Judge Jeanne Meurer was convinced there was probable cause. Springsteen was indicted on four counts of capital murder.

Dec. 28, 1999: Springsteen, Scott, and Pierce were indicted on capital murder charges.

2000s

2000: The Austin Police Department established its Cold Case Unit.

May 2, 2000: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives released a report finding the gun discovered on Pierce in December 1991 was probably not the murder weapon after all. Officers began scouring the Colorado River under the Loop 360 bridge, looking for the gun that both Scott and Springsteen said may have been dumped the night of the murders. In the nine years since the murders, six floods had washed out the river.

May 16, 2000: Detective Paul Johnson said an APD ballistics expert told him back in January 1999 that Pierce's .22-caliber gun was almost certainly not the murder weapon.

June 30, 2000: A Texas Department of Public Safety report showed that none of the boys' DNA was found at the crime scene, even after testing for rape, checking fingernails and examining mucus found under one of the girls. Judge Jon Wisser threw out all four charges against Welborn, and Travis County District Attorney Ronnie Earle dropped the case against Welborn after two grand juries failed to indict him.

May 2001: A Travis County jury convicted Springsteen of the murders and sent him to death row.

September 2002: A jury convicted Scott and sentenced him to life in prison.

January 2003: Earle said there was not enough physical evidence or testimony to keep Pierce in jail or to warrant a trial, and all charges against Pierce were dropped. Pierce was set free and moved out of Austin.

June 2005: Because the U.S. Supreme Court ruled convicted killers 17 years old and younger cannot be executed, Gov. Rick Perry commuted Springsteen's death sentence to life in prison.

May 2006: The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned Springsteen's capital murder conviction on the basis that he never got to confront his accuser in court, sending the case back to a Travis County court. Meanwhile, Scott's appeal was pending.

February 2007: The Travis County DA's appeal of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals' ruling was shot down by the U.S. Supreme Court, and Springsteen was on his way to a new trial.

June 2007: The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned Scott's capital murder conviction on the basis that he never got to confront his accuser in court, sending the case back to a Travis County court.

March 2008: State lab testing showed unknown male DNA on swabs taken from victim Amy Ayers.

April 15, 2008: A jury decided to let the defense test clothing for semen.

April 17, 2008: Prosecution said a DNA sample found in new tests could not be linked to Springsteen or Scott.

May 2, 2008: The APD arrested former murder suspect Pierce on charges of resisting arrest and assault on a police officer.

May 28, 2008: Scott spoke in court for a pretrial hearing after he and Springsteen were being retried in the case.

July 15, 2008: A district judge gave prosecutors three days to provide defense attorneys with information about the results of new DNA testing in the murders.

Aug. 20, 2008: Judge Mike Lynch refused to lift a protective order after defense attorneys for Springsteen and Scott said the gag order would not allow them to talk about the case.

Sept. 17, 2008: Springsteen and Scott were in court for another pretrial hearing, and their attorneys asked for new DNA testing of the physical evidence gathered at the crime scene. Lynch told the two sides to narrow down the list of items to test so taxpayer dollars wouldn't be wasted on irrelevant items to the case.

December 2008: Officials tested DNA from the murder scene, and defense attorneys for Springsteen and Scott argued there was no DNA evidence linking the men to the crime. Defense attorneys cited the only evidence prosecutors had was the coerced confessions. Defense said the men were convicted because it was a trial of emotion.

Jan. 7, 2009: Despite new DNA evidence in the yogurt shop murders case, the trials of Scott and Springsteen moved forward as protesters gathered outside the Travis County Justice Complex, hoping charges against the men might be dismissed. New DNA testing revealed DNA of an unknown man found on three of the four teen girls did not match either of the two men.

March 17, 2009: After attorneys for the murder suspects met with a judge to discuss the implications of new DNA testing that placed an unknown man at the scene, the judge took no action. Defense attorneys planned to get the suspects released on a writ bond

June 18, 2009: Springsteen's attorneys presented Lynch with the results of new DNA lab testing and said the results prove their client did not commit the murders. One of the attorneys asked the judge to release his client on bond while he awaited trial.

June 22, 2009: Lynch denied a bond reduction for Springsteen, ruling against his motion to have his bond reduced while awaiting trial.

June 24, 2009: Springsteen and Scott were released from prison on bond pending their upcoming trials. Scott was set to appear for his trial July 6; however, the DA requested a continuance in the case.

Oct. 28, 2009: Travis County DA Rosemary Lehmberg filed a motion for dismissal and requested that the charges against Springsteen and Scott be dismissed. Court records revealed law enforcement was still investigating the DNA testing and related matters, and Lehmberg wasn’t going to go to trial on the case as the investigations continued.

2010s

Cold-case work in the investigation continued with little progress, but technological advancements in the realm of DNA were being made.

Dec. 23, 2010: During an altercation with police, Pierce was shot and killed.

2013: Springsteen filed lawsuits in state and federal courts seeking compensation for being wrongfully imprisoned, but both were dismissed by September.

January 2017: Travis County DA Margaret Moore formed a trial team and partnership with APD’s Cold Case Unit to continue investigating the case. The DA’s Office set aside office space for the newly formed “Yogurt Shop Team” to store evidence and house the detectives.

2017: An Austin detective submitted DNA evidence found from one of the victims into a database for a DNA profile that forensic investigators used to identify male relatives of suspects, and a match was found. The APD requested more information about the match, but the FBI did not provide any.

2018: The cold case collaboration effort was placed under First Assistant DA Mindy Montford, who worked with the Cold Case Unit to oversee the assignment of individual prosecutors and supervise the cases’ eventual prosecution.

2020s

March 2021: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton helps form Texas’ Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit to provide assistance and support to Texas law enforcement agencies with “unsolved cases, including homicides, missing persons, and other matters centered around human identification and forensic genealogy.”

May 2021: U.S. Reps. Michael McCaul, a Republican in Austin, and Eric Swalwell, a Democrat in California, introduced H.R. 3359, or the Homicide Victims’ Families Rights Act, which would allow the families of cold case victims to reopen the case.

August 2022: President Joe Biden signed the Homicide Victims’ Families Rights Act into law.

August 2025: HBO Max released “The Yogurt Shop Murders,” a docuseries on the case.

Sept. 26, 2025: The APD announced it had made a “significant breakthrough” in the cold case and linked Brashers as a suspect in the 1991 deaths.

The department plans to provide additional details surrounding the update during a news conference on Sunday, Sept. 29.

Memphis leaders roll out “Free the 901” campaign to oppose National Guard deployment

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 02:15:12 +0000

Memphis, TN — Today community, faith, labor, youth, culture and business leaders launched Free the 901, a campaign to prepare, protect and uplift Memphis residents amid escalating authoritarian attacks — including the proposed deployment of the National Guard to patrol neighborhoods.

Rooted in the belief that real safety comes from investing in people, not punishment, Free the 901 held a press conference at 1 p.m., followed by the “No Cooperation with Occupation” march at 1:30 p.m. Both events began at the park across from Juvenile Court (intersection of Neely & Adams).

Trinity Williams of the Equity Alliance talks to supporters during the Free the 901 campaign in Memphis to oppose National Guard deployment. Photo by Dave Mason

This campaign was born out of urgency. On Sept. 12, Donald Trump and Gov. Bill Lee announced plans to send the National Guard and a multi-agency task force into Memphis, with more concrete plans revealed at today’s press conference with Lee in Memphis. Free the 901 rejects this overreach and will mobilize residents through trainings, orientations and rapid-response organizing, while advancing policies and narratives that put care over control, people over policing and safety over surveillance. “Memphis is the incubator—what’s tested here becomes the blackprint for the rest of the country,” said Tikeila Rucker, one of the visionaries of Free the 901.

Instead of pouring hundreds of millions into militarization, Free the 901 calls on leaders and neighbors to double down on what works: investing in people and communities. Safety comes from strong schools, affordable housing, living-wage jobs and mental health resources — not soldiers on the streets.

Supporters can text “Free901” to 25225 to join the campaign, organizers said.

Partner organizations include ACLU-TN, American Muslim Advisory Council, Black Voters Matter, Decarcerate Memphis, The Equity Alliance, Indivisible Memphis, Justice & Safety Alliance, Memphis Activism Calendar, Memphis Artists for Change, Memphis for All, Memphis Tenants Union, Memphis Voices for Palestine, MICAH, Official Black Lives Matter, Stand for Children Tennessee, Tennessee for All, TIRRC (Tennessee Immigrants & Refugee Rights Coalition) and Vecindarios 901.

Applications Open for OZ Arts Nashville’s Fifth Annual Brave New Works Lab through Monday, October 20

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 01:21:51 +0000

Nashville, Tenn. – Contemporary arts center OZ Arts Nashville encourages artists from all performance disciplines to submit proposals via the open call the Brave New Works Lab 2026, due on Monday, October 20, 2025. Now in its fifth year, the Lab has become one of the most important resources for daring Nashville-based artists working in contemporary performance, inviting them to transform OZ Arts into a laboratory for the creation and premiere of new works and works-in-progress. As always, there is no fee to apply. The Brave New Works Lab will have performances at OZ’s expansive Creative Warehouse from May 14-16, 2026, and interested creatives can find more information on the OZ Arts website at: ozartsnashville.org/brave-new-works-lab-2026

Each year since 2022, the Brave New Works Lab has debuted entirely original short-form performances created by artists working in dance, theater, music, multimedia, and more. The Lab encourages multimedia experimentation and collaboration across disciplines, creating a safe space for high-risk artistic adventures. In the first four years, the Lab has debuted a total of 16 new performance projects, serving as a crucial incubator for some of the most exciting new work happening in Middle Tennessee. Among them: PYDANCE’s rock-infused dance-theater creation God’s Country, an installment of writer/performer Clay Steakley and dance artist Becca Hoback’s collaboration with The Fire Cycle, and musician Sarah Saturday and filmmaker Dycee Wildman’s collaboration on Voyage. The Lab is also a home for some of the most vibrant dance artists in the region, with previous years including new dance works by choreographers like Alexandra Winer, Stacie Flood-Popp, Kourtney “Koko” French, Gabrielle Saliba, Lenin Fernandez, and many more.

Artist proposals for the Brave New Works Lab are due by Monday October 20, 2025. Artists of all performance disciplines — and especially teams of artists working across disciplines — are encouraged to apply. For additional information, visit the OZ Arts website, or email Daniel Jones (daniel@ozartsnashville.org) with any inquiries.

About OZ Arts Nashville

Founded in 2013 by the Ozgener family, OZ Arts Nashville has quickly established itself as one of the Southeast’s most influential and respected producers and presenters focused on the creation and presentation of significant performing and visual artworks by diverse cultural visionaries who are making vital contributions to the evolution of contemporary culture. Through performances, exhibitions, and community events, OZ Arts focuses on producing and presenting the work of local and visiting artists who reflect our diverse society, utilize new artistic forms and technology in creative ways, and provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with audiences, students and cultural and civic leaders. OZ Arts’ unique creative warehouse has developed a reputation as a major national and regional laboratory for experimentation and a home for contemporary dance and performance. More than 70,000 audience members have been introduced to adventurous artists from around the world since the organization opened, and hundreds of local and regional artists have used OZ’s 10,000 square-foot warehouse theater to develop new works. For more information, please visit ozartsnashville.org.

This Nashville cafe has some of the best coffee in the US, Yelp says

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:22:54 +0000

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — This Nashville cafe has brewed its way onto a list naming the best spots in the nation for a morning cup of joe.

Yelp recently launched its "Top 100 Coffee Shops" ranking and a Nashville shop, including two others in Tennessee, claimed spots on the list.

The food review site released the list just in time for National Coffee Day, which is on Sept. 29.

The only Nashville location that made Yelp's list, The Horn, which came in at No. 20, is known for its sambusas, signature spiced chai, and of course, coffee.

According to the shop's website, The Horn crafts East African tradition with bold tradition, and is more than just place to grab a bite. The shop also serves as a gathering place where "culture, food and community converge."

Yelp reviewers highlighted the shop's fresh sambusas, coffee, and Dubai chocolate treats.

"Service here was great and the staff were very friendly! The sambusas were freshly made, and oh my, the coffee was the very best part, very tasty and was quickly made," said reviewer. "One of the best places to stop for a quick bite and good coffee in the area."

| Check out more lists and rankings from across Tennessee →

"Excellent chai, coffee, incredible sambusas and friendly staff," wrote another Yelp reviewer. "Can't go wrong with anything on the menu, but the Philly sambusas and Somali chai stand out."

The family-owned staple boasts a 4.9 star rating from over 200 reviews on Yelp.

Here are where other Tennessee coffee shops ranked:

(#57): Matt Robs Biscuits - Knoxville
(#60): Butteriffic Bakery and Cafe - Memphis

⏩ Read today's top stories on wkrn.com

The best coffee in the nation can be found at Yaw Farm Coffee Roaster in Las Vegas, Nevada, according to Yelp reviewers.

To see the full list, follow this link.

Knoxville College works toward revival as historic HBCU for Black education

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:04:54 +0000

Established in 1875, Knoxville College is one of Tennessee’s oldest historically Black colleges and universities and remains a vital institution for higher education among African Americans in East Tennessee. Founded by the United Presbyterian Church of North America to serve freed men and women, it opened as a normal school for training teachers before becoming a full college two years later.

The college occupies a 39-acre campus in Knoxville’s Mechanicsville neighborhood. Many of its early structures were built by students, using bricks they made themselves. Over the years, the campus became not only an educational site but also a hub of community life. Knoxville College joined the United Negro College Fund and became part of the national network of HBCUs that played an essential role in advancing opportunities for Black students.

The school also figured prominently in the civil rights movement. In 1960, Knoxville College students took part in downtown sit-ins to protest segregated lunch counters. Two years later, the college amended its charter to allow white students. The campus chapel has welcomed influential speakers, including W.E.B. Du Bois and George Washington Carver.

Knoxville College’s prominence declined in the late 20th century. The school lost accreditation in 1997, a blow that limited access to federal financial aid and made it harder to attract students. Enrollment fell sharply, reaching only 11 students by 2015. Classes were suspended temporarily, though the school welcomed students back in 2018 after a reorganization. In August 2024, Knoxville College submitted an application for accreditation with the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools in hopes of restoring its academic standing.

The physical campus has faced challenges as well. Several historic buildings have sat vacant for decades, and fires have damaged others. Elnathan Hall, a building first constructed in 1893, was destroyed again by fire in November 2024 after years of disuse. Preservationists have listed portions of the campus as endangered, citing its importance to Knoxville’s Black history

Despite these setbacks, Knoxville College continues to symbolize resilience for the Black community in East Tennessee. It remains the only HBCU in the region, and its revival is being pursued by alumni, faculty, and local leaders committed to restoring its legacy. Current efforts focus on meeting accreditation requirements, stabilizing and restoring historic buildings, expanding enrollment, and strengthening academic offerings.

For many in Knoxville, the future of Knoxville College represents more than the survival of an institution. It is seen as honoring the struggles and achievements of generations of Black Tennesseans who viewed education as a pathway to equality and empowerment.

Tennessee Recovery Coalition Launches at Maury County Recovery Fest

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:37:36 +0000

Columbia, Tenn. – The Tennessee Recovery Coalition, a newly formed network of statewide professional, high-quality recovery residence operators and addiction treatment specialists, made its first public appearance at the Maury County Recovery Fest on Saturday, September 20.

With a commitment to providing hope, healing and education, the Tennessee Recovery Coalition sponsored the annual event, helping inform the public about the crucial role that recovery and sober living facilities play in public health and safety.

“When those passionate about recovery band together, it only strengthens our entire community,” said Mary Linden Salter, executive director of the Tennessee Association of Alcohol, Drug & other Addiction Services. “The Tennessee Recovery Coalition’s mission coincides with our own, and we wish them continued success.”

Shawn Baker, co-founder of Freeman Recovery Center, a founding member of the Tennessee Recovery Coalition, was pleased with the successful launch, “We are thankful for everybody that made today special. It was an incredible opportunity for our coalition to sponsor such a wonderful event.”

As the Tennessee Recovery Coalition continues to expand its footprint, Delta Recovery – a substance use treatment center in Columbia – has officially joined the growing association, spearheading its Maury County Chapter.

“The Tennessee Recovery Coalition presents a tremendous opportunity for operators to come together and set a high standard for recovery,” said Matthew White, executive director of Delta Recovery. “We are looking forward to making a difference in the lives of all Tennesseans.”

Looking ahead, the Tennessee Recovery Coalition is sponsoring the Marshall County Recovery Fest on Saturday, September 27, in Lewisburg.

Statement from Meharry President on Campus Nonviolent Hate Crime

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 03:43:29 +0000

Dr. James Hildreth Statement

This week, a nonviolent hate crime occurred on our campus. Unidentified assailant(s) defaced a remote area of the Albion Street parking garage with the threatening phrase “N*****s should die.” The incident was immediately reported to the Metro Nashville Police Department and the graffiti was removed. We have also increased security patrols to ensure the wellbeing of those on our campus.

We do not tolerate hate and will fiercely defend the welfare and dignity of our community. This abhorrent act will not shake who we are—and have been—for almost 150 years. Meharry will continue its mission to educate, serve and inspire, upholding our campus as a place of healing, belonging and safety for all.

Arcade Arts welcomes new class of artists-in-residence at art crawl

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 03:00:45 +0000

Arcade Arts Nashville, an organization whose mission is to create and sustain a well-supported home for the visual arts in the heart of downtown Nashville, welcomed the 12 artists selected for the second year of its Artist in Residence program during the September Art Crawl in the Arcade.

The 12 artists represent a diverse group of established, emerging and student artists working in a variety of mediums and were selected from among more than 165 submissions from across the area, 40% more submissions than for the inaugural year. The artists include:

Sam Angel, photography

Omari Booker, painting, mixed media

Sandra Chandler, textiles

Charles Elwell, painting, mixed media

Georganna Greene, painting

Don Guevara, digital, 3D collage

IMGRNT (Arash Shoushtari), printmaking, performance art

Amanda Micheletto-Blouin, textiles, mixed media

Lesley Patterson-Marx, textiles, mixed media

Jerry Phillips, mixed media

Gabriel Pozzo, painting

Clay Williams, sculpture

Arcade Arts Executive Director Mollye Brown praised the interest from the Nashville creative community in this year’s program. “We were excited to see all who stopped by the Arcade last week to welcome our new cohort of Resident Artists. It was exciting to experience each of the studios filled with new energy and art, and the artists are all grateful to the community for its support.”

She went on to say, “Over the next 10 months, Arcade Arts will embark on a robust programming agenda that includes professional development components for our resident artists, as well as community engagement activities, artist talks, studio visits and other experiences that will foster and promote the visual arts.”

Bios of the artists and examples of their work are available at arcadearts.org.

Located on the top floor of the newly renovated Arcade Nashville at 223 4^th Avenue North between 4th and 5th Avenues, Arcade Arts features 12 studio spaces for Artists in Residence, where visitors can engage with artists actively creating their work in a variety of media, and frequent curated art programs. In addition to the Artist in Residence program, Arcade Arts features curated shows in their exhibition space, Gallery 56.

Raiders Rise to the Challenge at Austin Peay

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 02:53:18 +0000

Saturday’s early morning sun hit Fortera Stadium as 176 Junior ROTC cadets from 12 regional high schools laced up their boots, cinched their rucksacks, and prepared for a long day of teamwork, sweat, and grit. Sixteen teams in total gathered for the annual APSU Raider Challenge, hosted by Austin Peay State University’s ROTC battalion, the Governor’s Guard.

Running since the 1990s, the APSU Raider Challenge is more than just a competition. It’s a proving ground designed to test mental toughness, physical endurance, and the kind of leadership that will carry these cadets well beyond the high school classroom.

Maj. Nicholas Kirschten, officer in charge of the event, explained that this local competition mirrors the national Raider Challenge held at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

“This takes about six months of preparation,” Kirschten said. “The MS4 cadets here at Austin Peay completely design, resource, and execute every lane with oversight. It’s an opportunity for leaders at every echelon. Even those who don’t win still walk away with camaraderie, resilience, and shared experience.”

The event also reflects the ONE ROTC concept, the Army’s directive for Junior and Senior ROTC programs to collaborate as a unified pipeline of leadership. High school cadets are challenged in ways that prepare them for national competition, while APSU’s senior cadets gain hands-on leadership experience by designing and managing the event itself.

For current APSU student Cadet Braden Vest, a criminal justice major, the event brings back strong memories. Vest competed in the Raider Challenge as a West Creek High School cadet and now helps from the planning side.

“As a junior cadet, it pushed me mentally and physically in ways I hadn’t experienced before,” Vest said. “Now being on this side of it, I see just how much work goes into planning. It’s not as simple as showing up—it’s a months-long process. But once it all comes together and everyone’s out here enjoying it, it’s worth every bit of effort.”

He also had advice for today’s competitors: “Keep a strong mindset. Don’t let the pain get in the way of becoming better. Just embrace the suck because at the end, you’ll realize how much you’ve grown.”

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Eric Marhover, who coaches the Fort Campbell High School team, said Raider events are as much about leadership as competition.

“The students do the work. I’m really just here for logistics,” Marhover said. “As coaches, we can’t talk to them during the event. They have to rely on their own preparation and leadership. That’s what I love most about it.”

He also highlighted the value of Austin Peay’s support: “It’s great to have APSU as a partner. Their cadets model leadership for our students, and the connection between our high schools and the university makes this a true community event.”

Santi Tedder, Junior Cadet Santi Tedder from Clarksville High School, participates in “Decipher the Code” challenge at Fortera Stadium

Results:

First Place: Ravenwood High School
Second Place: Northeast High School
Third Place: Montgomery Central High School

“Congratulations to our winning teams and to all of today’s participants,” said Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Walt Lord, vice president for military and veteran affairs. “While a handful of teams took the top honors, every one of you worked hard, gave it your best, and placed the best interests of your teams above your own. Congratulations for that. Congratulations as well for choosing JROTC, a program that will take the grit and determination you displayed today and teach you how to focus it to accomplish all of your future goals.”

Austin Peay State University’s ROTC battalion, the Governor’s Guard, is an eight-time recipient of the prestigious General Douglas MacArthur Award, recognizing it as one of the top ROTC battalions in the nation. Part of the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, the program prepares students for service and leadership in the U.S. Army while offering unmatched opportunities to build character, discipline, and resilience.

Three Democratic candidates address key issues affecting voters

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 03:38:08 +0000

CLARKSVILLE, TN —On September 15, over 100 people attended a candidate forum in Clarksville where three of the four Democratic candidates seeking Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District seat addressed critical issues facing voters ahead of the October 7 special primary election. State Reps. Aftyn Behn and Vincent Dixie, along with businessman Darden Copeland were in attendance. Notably absent was State Rep. Bo Mitchell.

While the candidates showed similar policy positions on a variety of issues, there were still some clear distinctions as shared below.

Rising Costs: All three attending candidates addressed growing concerns about utility bill increases related to data center development along the Cumberland River. Vincent Dixie emphasized the need for federal, state, and local collaboration, highlighting Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and their $29 million fund as potential solutions, particularly for communities that have been historically impacted by industrial development. Rep. Aftyn Behn stressed the importance of organizing and putting pressure on stakeholders in the decision-making process. Darden Copeland focused on the Tennessee Valley Authority’s role and advocated for meaningful solar development that preserves farmland.

Workers’ Rights and Labor Issues: The candidates showed strong alignment on labor union protections. Rep Dixie called for ensuring workers feel safe to voice concerns and join unions. Rep Behn pledged to co-sponsor the Protect America’s Workforce Act and advocated for universal labor protections including H2A and H2B visa reforms. Copeland emphasized the importance of vocational training at the high school level and beyond, noting that college costs have become unattainable for many families.

Immigration and Border Security: The candidates took nuanced positions on immigration reform. Dixie called for repealing the recent “Big Billionaire Budget” passed recently by the Trump administration, arguing that the $150 billion spent on ICE would be better used for housing and community development. Rep Behn emphasized following the money and noted she is the only candidate who hasn’t taken PAC money, arguing that immigrants are not responsible for Americans’ mortgage struggles. Copeland focused on honoring commitments to Afghan allies and the need to tell local stories about immigration impacts.

Healthcare and Privacy Rights: On reproductive rights and healthcare privacy, all three candidates expressed strong support for protecting women’s healthcare access. Rep Behn highlighted her statewide organizing work and advocated for federal right to travel for healthcare. Copeland pledged to always protect a woman’s right to choose while also addressing AI regulation and data privacy concerns. Rep Dixie emphasized the need to think “temporally” about these issues and strengthen HIPAA laws to protect healthcare privacy from big corporations and AI.

Redistricting and Voting Rights: The candidates addressed the controversial redistricting that split Nashville and reduced minority voting power. Rep Dixie, speaking from experience representing a largely Black district, vowed to fight for fair maps and emphasized the importance of census education at the community level. Copeland criticized how Republicans split Nashville and pledged to use his platform to advocate for bipartisan legislation to restore district integrity. Rep Behn called for updating federal voting standards to require independent redistricting commissions.

The Tennessee 7th Congressional District special election primary will take place on October 7, 2025, with the general election scheduled for December 2, 2025.

For more information about the candidates and election, voters can visit their respective campaign websites or contact the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office.

Annual ‘Meet Us at the Bridge’ ceremony set

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 03:25:49 +0000

The Nashville Coalition Against Domestic Violence will host the 21st annual “Meet Us at the Bridge” ceremony Saturday, September 20 to honor victims of domestic violence and recognize those working to end it.

The event marks the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and will feature the reading of names of 12 individuals who lost their lives to domestic violence in Nashville over the past year.

Family members and loved ones will drop purple roses from the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge in their memory.

Mayor Freddie O’Connell is scheduled to attend, alongside family members, advocates, and community leaders.

The coalition will also present its annual MUATB Awards to individuals and organizations for their work in combating domestic violence.

This year’s recipients include the Mary Parrish Center as Outstanding Service Provider, Detective Joshua Beauchesne as Outstanding Law Enforcement Leader, the General Sessions Domestic Violence Court as Outstanding Government Official, and Survivors First — a partnership between the YWCA and District Attorney’s Office — for Innovative Program.

Rusty L. Burdge will be recognized as Outstanding Survivor.

The ceremony will take place from 9 to 10 a.m. on the bridge, with free parking available at Nissan Stadium’s Lot R.

Since its inception more than two de- cades ago, the event has honored more than 200 women, men, and children killed by domestic violence.

Organizers said the annual remembrance is both a call for healing and a demand for change in a state that consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for domestic homicides.

“Tennessee continues to be in the top 10 states for women killed by men, and one in four women will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime,” the coalition said in a statement.

“Metro Nashville police respond to 26,000 domestic violence calls each year.

This event reminds us of the real lives behind those numbers.”

The Nashville Coalition Against Domestic Violence is comprised of local agencies and advocates working to prevent and respond to domestic abuse.

Members include the Agape Morning Star Sanctuary, Davidson County District Attorney’s Office, Infinite Possibilities, Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands, Mary Parrish Center, Metro Nashville Office of Family Safety, Metro Nashville Police Department, Strings of Hope, Tennes- see Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, You Have the Power, and YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee.

Advocates said the “Meet Us at the Bridge” ceremony not only memorializes lives lost but also reinforces the community’s shared commitment to building a safer Nashville.

2025 Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair Spotlights America 250 Celebration and Year of Pork

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 20:08:17 +0000

Great fun! Great crowds! Great tradition!

The 2025 Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair presented by your Mid-South Ford Dealers, which ran from August 14^th to August 23^rd, welcomed 795,523 fairgoers, the second highest attendance in Fair history despite the extreme heat during the first seven days. The Fair’s success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire community and volunteers. We extend our deepest gratitude to all our vendors, volunteers, sponsors and fairgoers whose enthusiasm and support made this Fair so great!

This year’s theme, “Goin’ Hog Wild & Bacon Memories at the Fair,” paired with the agricultural commodity promotion of the “Year of Pork” was carried throughout the fairgrounds with pork-centered exhibits, educational displays and special contests like the Celebrity and Costume Swine Shows, Piggy Wiggle Race, The Great Bacon Toss and more. Fairgoers enjoyed delicious pork-inspired treats from vendors, interactive agriculture exhibits that showcased Tennessee’s pork industry and family-friendly activities that tied the theme together.

This year’s Fair also proudly kicked off a special America 250 Celebration honoring our nation’s upcoming 250^th Birthday (1776- 2026). Patriotic décor and special displays across the fairgrounds set the tone for this milestone tribute. The celebration was formally started during our Grand Opening Ceremony, which featured honored guests including Governor Bill Lee, Commissioner of Agriculture Charlie Hatcher, Commissioner of Tourism Mark Ezell, Representative Clark Boyd and other dignitaries. This special

recognition tied the traditions of the Fair to the history of our state and country giving fairgoers a chance to celebrate America’s story while enjoying Tennessee’s largest family event.

In the Made in Tennessee Building, fairgoers were welcomed and asked to place a pin to represent their home area. Maps were pinned from people who attended from all 95 Tennessee counties, all 50 states and 25 countries.

Powered by volunteers – that’s what makes the Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair special! More than 2,700 volunteers, alongside a small dedicated staff work year-round to make the Fair possible, living up to Tennessee’s proud name as the Volunteer State. Since 1853, the Fair has been a tradition in Wilson County, and this year marked the 46^th Fair produced by Wilson County Promotions, a

non-profit organization. Proceeds from the Fair go back into preparing for next year’s Fair and improving the Fairgrounds for generations to come.

Highlights of the 2025 Fair included:

As Tennessee’s Largest Outdoor Classroom, the Fair includes deep roots as an agriculture Fair! There were over 6,400 livestock entries with over 150 livestock shows, around 1,800 4-H & FFA students competed in over 30 competitions and more than 100 agriculture opportunities for fairgoers around the entire fairgrounds.
The Ag Venture Experience expanded this year bigger and better than ever. Designed to connect families with Tennessee agriculture, this enhanced exhibit gave fairgoers the chance to explore farming through hands-on displays, interactive learning and livestock Created around how long it actually takes to make a bacon cheeseburger, fairgoers learned more about how farmers and producers work diligently to put nutritious and delicious food on our tables.
One of the tastiest additions to the 2025 Fair was the debut of the Fair Food Competition where concessionaires put their best dishes and drinks forward in a friendly contest for top honors. With 79 entries, judges sampled a wide variety of classic fair

favorites and creative new flavors. The competition highlighted the talent and creativity of the Fair’s food vendors and also encouraged visitors to sample delicious and unique tastes of the Fair.

New sky ride to see the entire fairgrounds from the air! Reithoffer Shows created a ride almost 1,000 feet long that any fairgoer could enjoy.

The 2025 Fair was made possible with the outstanding support of our sponsors and vendors supporting stages of entertainment, fun and exciting competitions along with offering shopping opportunities, the Fair showcased the Wilson County and Tennessee communities in grand fashion. From mouthwatering food to unique exhibits and local crafts, their contributions created a diverse and vibrant atmosphere our fairgoers enjoyed each day. We are especially grateful for our sponsors whose generosity allowed us to expand our offerings and deliver top-notch entertainment, competitions and educational experiences.

795,523 fairgoers – 10 memorable days – Countless family times – The 2025 Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair is officially in the record books as the 2^nd largest Fair to date. The countdown is already on for August 13 – 22, 2026. Thank YOU for being part of the Fair’s long-standing tradition.

We’ll see YOU at the Fair!

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’