Tennessee
Tennessee woman baptized by sheriff’s deputy after traffic stop found dead
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(RNS) — Per week after a federal decide dominated {that a} lawsuit may go ahead towards two former sheriff’s deputies for baptizing a girl in a lake after a visitors cease, the girl has been discovered useless.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation instructed a Chattanooga tv station that the physique of Shandele Marie Riley, 42, was present in Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee. Riley’s first identify is listed as Shandle within the lawsuit, and it couldn’t be instantly decided which spelling is appropriate.
Authorities are reportedly awaiting outcomes of an post-mortem.
The baptism, stated U.S. District Decide Travis McDonough of the East District of Tennessee, violated the First Modification. “Any cheap officer would have acknowledged that coerced participation in a Christian baptism — an overtly non secular act with no secular function — was illegal,” McDonough dominated in early April.
The ruling, first reported by The Chattanoogan and Courthouse Information Service, stems from an incident in February 2019, when Hamilton County sheriff’s Deputy Daniel Wilkey pulled Riley over exterior her ex-mother-in-law’s home. In the course of the visitors cease, in response to courtroom paperwork, Riley admitted she had a “marijuana roach in her cigarette pack.”
After Wilkey searched the automobile and located the marijuana, he supplied Riley a alternative: She could possibly be arrested or get baptized. If she selected baptism, Wilkey would give her a quotation however not take her to jail. He promised he would additionally communicate on her behalf in courtroom.
With ‘Christian hashish,’ a pastor is selling the religious facet of marijuana
Riley went alongside as a result of Wilkey was a “God-fearing, church like-man,” in response to the decide’s ruling.
When the 2 went into her ex-mother-in regulation’s home to get a towel for the baptism, in response to courtroom paperwork, Riley instructed her ex-mother-in-law, “I suppose I’m fixing to get baptized.”
The 2 had been met at a close-by lake by one other deputy, Jacob Goforth, whom Wilkey had referred to as to ask him to witness the baptism. Wilkey didn’t inform Goforth in regards to the visitors cease initially, the ruling stated, however even after Goforth realized Wilkey had cited Riley for possession of marijuana, he didn’t cease the baptism.
Former deputies Daniel Wilkey, left, and Jacob Goforth, proper. Images courtesy of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Workplace
As a substitute, Wilkey stripped right down to his underwear and T-shirt and waded into the water, and Riley, absolutely clothed, adopted. Wilkey baptized her by immersion as Goforth filmed the occasion on his cellphone.
Gorforth later stated that he filmed the occasion “to guard all individuals current and doc the occasion,” in response to courtroom paperwork.
After the baptism, Wilkey and Riley hugged for a number of seconds and she or he left.
Riley later claimed that Goforth smirked at her — one thing he denies — and stated she felt the baptism was incorrect. The occasion had nothing to do with saving her soul, she stated, however as an alternative was about “energy and management.”
Riley initially pleaded responsible to possession of a managed substance however the fees had been dismissed. She finally sued the 2 deputies, alleging that that they had violated her freedom of faith, that that they had failed to guard her and that the search of her automobile had been unreasonable. She additionally accused them of battery, assault and intentional infliction of emotional misery.
Wilkey, in response to information experiences, faces at the least 5 federal lawsuits and has been indicted on 44 counts of alleged prison conduct. The Chattanooga Occasions Free Press has reported that Wilkey and Goforth are not deputies.
The decide rejected a number of of Riley’s claims, together with the allegation that the 2 deputies had conspired to baptize her, but in addition rejected Goforth’s declare that the baptism had been voluntary. “No authorities curiosity is furthered by the baptism of a detainee by an on-duty law-enforcement officer,” McDonough wrote.
Moreover, Goforth had an obligation to intervene to cease it, the decide wrote.
“And an inexpensive jury may conclude that Goforth had each discover of the violation and a chance to cease the baptism. Accordingly, Goforth isn’t entitled to abstract judgment on Riley’s First Modification declare,” the decide dominated.
Learn Extra: In Catholic Italy, ‘de-baptism’ is gaining recognition
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Tennessee
What Are The Best Taylor Swift Spots To Visit In Nashville, Tennessee?
![What Are The Best Taylor Swift Spots To Visit In Nashville, Tennessee?](https://imageio.forbes.com/specials-images/imageserve/184220155/0x0.jpg?format=jpg&height=900&width=1600&fit=bounds)
Taylor Swift started her career in Nashville when she was in her early teens. The talented teen worked very hard at mastering her singing and songwriting skills in the city. Also, she visited record labels and gave them her demos in hopes of signing a record deal. Her hard work paid off, and her success is now history. She has broken hundreds of records with her achievements as a singer-songwriter-storyteller extraordinaire.
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 12: Singer Taylor Swift officially opens the Taylor Swift Education Center … [+]
Swift still has strong ties to Music City, and she is believed to visit there quite often. After all, it is home to the Taylor Swift Education Center at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Nashville is one of the best cities for Swifties hoping to see a part of Swift’s history because they can find pieces of it all over the city. From murals to cafes to museums, Swifties could spend a week in the city and not run out of interesting things to do.
Here are some of the most fun Taylor Swift spots to visit on your next visit to Nashville. You might want to bring along some friendship bracelets to trade with other Swifties you are likely to meet along the way.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
NASHVILLE – NOVEMBER 24: Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum, in Nashville, Tennessee on NOVEMBER … [+]
Every Swiftie who comes to Nashville should stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Not only is it home to the Taylor Swift Education Center, but the museum itself displays a lot of memorabilia from her illustrious career. The museum has fascinating displays and interactive exhibits that cover many aspects of country music history. You’ll probably want to linger for at least a few hours to take in everything.
The Bluebird Café
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 3, 2019: A crowd gathers outside the iconic Bluebird Cafe in … [+]
Taylor Swift’s connection to The Bluebird Café is legendary. When she was already an accomplished songwriter trying to get discovered in 2004 at the age of 14, Swift performed at The Bluebird Café.
There she met Scott Borchetta, and he later signed her to Big Machine Records where she released her first six album. Their long-time partnership ended when Borchetta sold Taylor Swift’s master recordings instead of giving her a chance to buy them herself. In a blog post on Tumblr, Swift explained the depths of betrayal and pain she felt after that happened.
Swift has since been triumphant in the release of her Taylor’s Version re-recordings of those albums. They have been extremely well-received and have broken records, and she has left that pain in her past. The Bluebird Café remains an iconic part of the star’s history.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 3, 2019: A neon sign in the shape of a bluebird burns above the … [+]
Taylor Swift returned to The Bluebird Café for a surprise visit in 2018. At that time, she performed her hits “Shake It Off”, “Love Story”, and “Better Man”. Her show was filmed as part of the documentary Bluebird.
Tickets to see a show at The Bluebird Café can be hard to obtain, so be sure to plan your visit in advance and book tickets on The Bluebird Café website.
The Reading Bench in Centennial Park
Centennial Park is a great spot for Swifties to visit.
During Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour stop in Nashville, she learned that a bench had been placed in the city’s beloved Centennial Park in honor of her song lyrics. In “Invisible String” from the Folklore album, Swift sings, “Green was the color of the grass where I used to read at Centennial Park.” She was so honored by this gesture that she added “Invisible String” back into her set list during the second night of The Eras Tour in Nashville. It had previously been on her set list before she switched it out for fan favorite song “The 1”.
The plaque on the city’s bench read, “For Taylor Swift, a bench for you to read on at Centennial Park.” The text concluded with, “Welcome home, Nashville”.
It still stands in the park for fans to visit. It’s a popular spot for Swifties to hang out and take selfies when they visit Music City. Bring along a book to enjoy the full experience.
Kelsey Montague’s Murals and AirBnB
The What Lifts You Wings in Nashville have a special connection to Taylor Swift.
Kelsey Montague is an artist Taylor Swift has celebrated for years. The singer first posed with a mural of wings Montague had drawn on a wall in New York City. Later, Swift commissioned Montague to create a butterfly mural to announce her single “ME!” from her Lover album.
That mural was always meant to be temporary, but Montague has several other murals in the city now. The most famous is probably her butterfly wings in The Gulch. The “What Lifts You Wings” can be found at 230 11th Avenue South in Nashville.
You can also book an AirBnB full of whimsy and Kelsey Montague art. There are artistic renderings of Taylor and art that will remind you of her at the beautiful multi-story home. The Gulch Wings Home by Kelsey Montague Art is a three-story home with a rooftop balcony that’s unlike any other place to stay in Nashville.
Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium is a historical place to see a show.
Not only has Taylor Swift performed many concerts at Ryman Auditorium, but she also told Nashville Lifestyles Magazine that she loves to go watch concerts there. You can visit the historical auditorium for a show, and they also offer a variety of fun tours. You can feel like Taylor Swift herself with their guided backstage tour which lets you walk in the foosteps of stars who have performed there.
Shopping Hot Spots
Historic Main Street with Red Brick Storefronts, parked cars and Grays Pharmacy in Franklin, … [+]
Taylor Swift has expressed her love of shopping in Nashville. She revealed to Nashville Lifestyles Magazine that she loves to visit the shops in Franklin, and she also said she loves going to Target in Nashville.
Music lovers are sure to enjoy a visit to Fanny’s House of Music, which Swift praised for its instruments, lessons, sweet staff, and vintage items. Taylor also recommended shops like Gilchrist and Gilchrist for those who like shabby chic styles. She likes Fire Finch and Pangaea in Hillsboro Village, and she also praised the Hill Center area shops H.Audrey and Anthropologie.
Nashville International Airport and Bus Stop
Nashville, TN, USA – March 11, 2024: The Nashville International Airport, originally known as Berry … [+]
If you’re flying into Nashville for your visit, you won’t have to go far to see a location from a Taylor Swift video. Parts of her endearing music video “Ours” were filmed at the airport and bus stop. A Taste of Country revealed a behind-the-scenes video so you can make sure you hit the exact spots before leaving the airport for further Nashville adventures.
Grand Ole Opry
Nashville, TN, USA – September 22, 2019: The Grand Ole Opry House, a world famous concert hall … [+]
Any country music enthusiast should stop by the Grand Ole Opry while in Nashville. Taylor Swift made her debut on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry back in 2006, reported The Tennessean. You can do a backstage your of the Grand Ole Opry for a glimpse into what it might have been like when Taylor graced its stage. Look for a photo of Taylor and a quote from her appearance at the Grand Ole Opry posted backstage.
Tennessee
Governor Lee Announces Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program – WBBJ TV
![Governor Lee Announces Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program – WBBJ TV](https://www.wbbjtv.com/content/uploads/2024/02/f/u/ap24032826957225-scaled.jpg)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Monday, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Tennessee Department of Veterans Services Commissioner Tommy Baker announced the launch of the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Program. This initiative aims to recognize Tennessee businesses that demonstrate exceptional commitment to recruiting, hiring, and retaining service members,Veterans, and their families.
“The Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program reinforces our state’s commitment to being the best place in the nation for Veterans to live, work, and raise a family,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “This initiative not only honors their service, but connects Tennessee employers with highly skilled individuals, driving economic opportunity across the Volunteer state.”
The program will utilize a three-tier system – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – to recognize businesses based on their level of commitment and support to the Veteran community.
“I am filled with immense pride as we introduce the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program. The program’s primary focus is to recognize Tennessee businesses that go above and beyond in their efforts to Recruit, Hire, and Retain service members, Veterans, and their families,” said Commissioner Tommy Baker.
Participating businesses will benefit from:
- Public recognition of your commitment
- Recognition on the Department of Veterans Services website
- Enhanced recruitment opportunities
- Demonstrated community engagement
- Access to a skilled workforce with proven leadership experience
The program also offers public recognition through official certificates, window decals, and digital badges, with additional benefits based on the achieved recognition tier.
Applications for the Tennessee Veteran Ready Business Recognition Program will be accepted from July 01, 2024, through October 01, 2024. Interested businesses can apply by visiting www.tn.gov/veteran/VRBP.
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services • WRS Tennessee Tower 13th Floor •312 Rosa L. Parks Ave. • Nashville, TN 37243 Tel: 615-253-0638 • tn.gov/veteran
For more information, businesses, community organizations, and chambers of commerce are encouraged to email the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services at tdvs.doso@tn.gov.
About the Department
The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services is dedicated to serving Veterans and their families with dignity and compassion as an entrusted advocate. The department strives to ensure that Tennessee’s Veterans receive the care, support, and recognition they have earned in service to our nation. For more information about the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services, please visit www.tn.gov/veteran.
For more Tennessee news, click here.
Tennessee
New Tennessee law requiring AEDs in high schools goes into effect
![New Tennessee law requiring AEDs in high schools goes into effect](https://www.wate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/42/2022/03/tennessee-state-capitol1_1525724124999_41960956_ver1.0.jpg?w=1280)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Tennessee’s “Smart Heart Act” is now in effect after it was signed by Governor Bill Lee in May. The legislation requires automatic defibrillators in schools and also establishes protocols for medical emergencies related to cardiac issues.
As of July 1, each public and non-public school where students attend grades 9 through 12 must maintain an automated external defibrillator (AED) thanks to the Smart Heart Act. The law also requires that the AED be made accessible during the regular school day and athletic events.
The Tennessee General Assembly passed the Smart Heart Act, sponsored by Cepicky and Hensley, in April 2024.
“Nothing is more important than keeping our students healthy and safe, and the Smart Heart Act ensures schools will be ready to respond in the event of a cardiac-related emergency,” Gov. Bill Lee stated in May upon signing the legislation into law. “I commend the General Assembly for their commitment to Tennessee students in passing this legislation.”
The Smart Heart Sports Coalition, which was launched in 2023, comprises major sports leagues and leading health advocacy groups seeking to drive the adoption of policies that could help prevent fatalities from Sudden Cardiac Arrest among high school students. Among the priorities include clearly marked AEDs at or within minutes of each high school athletic venue, an emergency action plan specific to each athletic venue that is posted and regularly rehearsed, plus education in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with AED use, for coaches and school personnel.
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