Local News
Nearly four months following a major winter storm that swept across Middle Tennessee, local auto engineers said vehicle repairs have not quite finished. TDOT announced they’re dedicating an additional $15 million statewide into resurfacing projects on top of what’s already budgeted for this type of work. It’s thanks to money set aside by Gov. Bill Lee – $4.8 million of that will be used for 33 projects in Middle Tennessee.
A Lieutenant Colonel assigned to Fort Campbell is facing federal charges after law enforcement officers uncovered evidence he unlawfully imported firearms parts from Russia, China, and other countries. According to Henry C. Leventis, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, Frank Ross Talbert, 40, was arrested on Thursday. He worked with the U.S. Army Explosives Ordinance Disposal (EOD). Talbert is also accused of unlawfully dealing firearms without a federal firearms license, and committing multiple firearms violations related to the possession of machineguns. Talbert faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Just $98.4 million of the $140 million provided by the state last summer to put an armed school resource officer in every school in Tennessee has been used, a state report shows, mainly due to staffing problems. Just 67% of public elementary schools and 75% of public middle and high schools have taken advantage of the funds. Chief John Drake told reporters the department didn’t have enough officers, so they planned to turn down the money.
The Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival takes place from Friday, May 3 to Saturday, May 11 in Portland. The festival is free to attend with free parking and shuttles available. There are two main days of the festival: May 10 and 11. Expect a concert and fireworks on May 10 with a packed schedule to follow for the main festival day on May 11.