Tonight, at the Public Square in Nashville in front of the courthouse, the Nashville Symphony will stage it's scheduled Pops concert, featuring Christopher Cross, free of charge for the city.
8:00 PM Central Time. The link has the map to the concert.
The Nashville Symphony's beautiful new hall suffered heavy damage in the flood, including the loss of two Steinways and the console to their concert organ. This is a classy response to an unfortunate situation.
Usually, an orchestra's music director is nowhere to be found when a pops concert is staged, but Guerrero will be on hand tonight to conduct portions of the concert.
Very classy.
Friday, May 7, 2010
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 7 2010 Morning
OS bows in the direction of his betters, this time Patten Fuqua, a rabid Nashville Predators Hockey Fan/Journalist/Blogger at Section 303.
This man can by-golly write, and says much that needs to be said about what has happened here since last Friday evening. He notes that most of the world never noticed the devastation that visited this part of the country, choosing to focus on the car bomb in Times Square that (by God's Grace) did not go off, and the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. (OS would add to his list, the UK elections, the slow motion train-wreck of the EuroZone, and our friends on Wall Street who once again proved that they are just little boys playing with gasoline and matches. But he digresses...)
Here's what Patten has to say:
The Cumberland River crested at its highest level in over 80 years. Nashville had its highest rainfall totals since records began. People drowned. Billions of dollars in damage occurred. It is the single largest disaster to hit Middle Tennessee since the Civil War. And yet…no one knows about it.
Does it really matter? Eventually, it will…as I mentioned, there are billions of dollars in damage. It seems bizarre that no one seems to be aware that we just experienced what is quite possibly the costliest non-hurricane disaster in American history. The funds to rebuild will have to come from somewhere, which is why people need to know. It’s hard to believe that we will receive much relief if there isn’t a perception that we need it.
But let’s look at the other side of the coin for a moment. A large part of the reason that we are being ignored is because of who we are. Think about that for just a second. Did you hear about looting? Did you hear about crime sprees? No…you didn’t. You heard about people pulling their neighbors off of rooftops. You saw a group of people trying to move two horses to higher ground. No…we didn’t loot. Our biggest warning was, “Don’t play in the floodwater.” When you think about it…that speaks a lot for our city. A large portion of why we were being ignored was that we weren’t doing anything to draw attention to ourselves. We were handling it on our own.
OS keeps looking for the tales of societal breakdown here, and they're not happening. People who lost lots of their worldly goods are out helping people who lost more. Not hearing many stories about price gouging, abandoned homes being burglarized by neighbors or strangers, looting, random violence, etc. Story after story, most never publicized, of people showing up with a pickup truck of supplies and a crew of people to help out their friends and neighbors, and people they've never met. People cutting back on water usage because it needs to be done. People setting up donation pages for other people who lost everything, because it needs to be done.
This area has a loooong way to go to get back to a semblance of normal, and there are some long-term losses to work through. But, there is a recovery underway, because of the social cohesion of the small towns and neighborhoods, often centered around the thousands of small churches that dot the landscape; the thousands more small businesses that make the local economy resemble a beehive; and the relatively small but nimble governments that try to keep things more or less organized. It's certainly not a perfect world here, as OS has chronicled, but here at 'crunch time' it has been inspiring to live here.
The next time you hear some horse's ass like Bill Maher or Keith Olbermann ridicule people who live in places like Middle Tennessee, OS hopes you remember some of what happened here this week, and how we responded.
Gotta go. Furniture on the porch, and rain on the way overnight.
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 6 2010 Late Evening-2
Today was spent ripping out soaked carpet, with attendant furniture moving, etc.
This was the day an Angel of Mercy showed up with a trailer, a couple of fans, energy, enthusiasm and a plan for how to attack the problem. He remained some thirteen hours, bless him.
The challenge of how to protect the house against the next watery invasion lies before us, and decisions about new flooring.
OS is sore in places he had forgotten existed, but deeply aware how blessed he and his are to only be dealing with a nuisance instead of a tragedy.
Bright notes in the day:
The Lowes in Dickson was well-stocked on our visit, with clean-up needs stacked toward the front, ready to go. Store manager at the front, directing traffic and answering questions. (Note to Self: Buy Lowe)
Mr. Angel of Mercy even took me to lunch. We checked out the Ace Diner on North Main in Dickson. Bright, clean, the best cheeseburger in memory, and hopping with customers. A welcome break from the dirt and tragedy of the week.
*****
OS usually keeps track of news, but was stunned to learn of today's events at the NYSE today.
Holy Hysteria, Batman!
All reason has long ago left the room.
Happiness is a 90% cash position when the looniness begins, and it is about to begin in earnest.
Chin-straps on. It's about to get very interesting.
****
This was the day an Angel of Mercy showed up with a trailer, a couple of fans, energy, enthusiasm and a plan for how to attack the problem. He remained some thirteen hours, bless him.
The challenge of how to protect the house against the next watery invasion lies before us, and decisions about new flooring.
OS is sore in places he had forgotten existed, but deeply aware how blessed he and his are to only be dealing with a nuisance instead of a tragedy.
Bright notes in the day:
The Lowes in Dickson was well-stocked on our visit, with clean-up needs stacked toward the front, ready to go. Store manager at the front, directing traffic and answering questions. (Note to Self: Buy Lowe)
Mr. Angel of Mercy even took me to lunch. We checked out the Ace Diner on North Main in Dickson. Bright, clean, the best cheeseburger in memory, and hopping with customers. A welcome break from the dirt and tragedy of the week.
*****
OS usually keeps track of news, but was stunned to learn of today's events at the NYSE today.
Holy Hysteria, Batman!
All reason has long ago left the room.
Happiness is a 90% cash position when the looniness begins, and it is about to begin in earnest.
Chin-straps on. It's about to get very interesting.
****
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 6 2010 Late Evening-FEMA Eligibility Update
The updated list of Tennessee counties now available for FEMA disaster assistance, announced shortly after 8:00 pm Central Time on 6 June.
From the Dickson Herald:
[begin copy]
Gov. Phil Bredesen just announced that the federal government has authorized a major disaster declaration for six additional Tennessee counties: Benton, Dickson, Humphreys, Maury, Sumner and Rutherford counties. This new declaration brings the total number of Tennessee counties in the federal disaster zone to 27. Residents in these counties are eligible to apply for federal assistance through FEMA.
In addition to the six counties just announced, the following counties are already part of the disaster declaration: Carroll, Cheatham, Crockett, Davidson, Decatur, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Hardeman, Haywood, Henderson, Hickman, Houston, Madison, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion, Perry, Shelby, Tipton and Williamson.
[end copy]
From the Dickson Herald:
[begin copy]
Gov. Phil Bredesen just announced that the federal government has authorized a major disaster declaration for six additional Tennessee counties: Benton, Dickson, Humphreys, Maury, Sumner and Rutherford counties. This new declaration brings the total number of Tennessee counties in the federal disaster zone to 27. Residents in these counties are eligible to apply for federal assistance through FEMA.
In addition to the six counties just announced, the following counties are already part of the disaster declaration: Carroll, Cheatham, Crockett, Davidson, Decatur, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Hardeman, Haywood, Henderson, Hickman, Houston, Madison, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion, Perry, Shelby, Tipton and Williamson.
[end copy]
Thursday, May 6, 2010
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 6 2010 Morning--Perry County/Hickman County
OS made his relief journey with a friend to visit a family in Perry County, and returned home deeply depressed by what he saw.
The Buffalo River, normally about 4-5 feet deep, had overflowed its banks massively. Fortunately, most farming operations along the river graze livestock, so pastures can recover.
Cane Creek, however, was another story. OS drove along the state route, and saw the high water line eight feet up in the trees. The road was washed out just past the Hickman County line. The Amish and Mennonites who inhabit that valley live off their gardens and cottage industries, which were washed away. OS missed the final turn into his friends lane, as too many landmarks had been washed away or relocated by the flood. (Amazing how we drive on auto-pilot, is it not?)
Perry County has not yet been declared a disaster area, but undoubtedly will qualify.
We delivered supplies and cash, took as many pictures as we could to document the damage while it was fresh, and returned home, grateful to have homes to return to.
Pictures later. OS has a carpet to tear out, a minor matter compared to the plight of so many others. Mrs. OS pulling china from cabinets.
We lead blessed lives.
The Buffalo River, normally about 4-5 feet deep, had overflowed its banks massively. Fortunately, most farming operations along the river graze livestock, so pastures can recover.
Cane Creek, however, was another story. OS drove along the state route, and saw the high water line eight feet up in the trees. The road was washed out just past the Hickman County line. The Amish and Mennonites who inhabit that valley live off their gardens and cottage industries, which were washed away. OS missed the final turn into his friends lane, as too many landmarks had been washed away or relocated by the flood. (Amazing how we drive on auto-pilot, is it not?)
Perry County has not yet been declared a disaster area, but undoubtedly will qualify.
We delivered supplies and cash, took as many pictures as we could to document the damage while it was fresh, and returned home, grateful to have homes to return to.
Pictures later. OS has a carpet to tear out, a minor matter compared to the plight of so many others. Mrs. OS pulling china from cabinets.
We lead blessed lives.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 5 2010 Morning--Water Use Restrictions/Boil Advisories
OS is about to head out the door with supplies for friends in Perry County. Will take a camera as well. Back later afternoon.
Most important bits to be passed along concerns water usage in Davidson County/Nashville:
From TN Dept of Environment and Conservation:
[begin copy]
May 4, 2010 Update from Nashville Metro Water Services: There are rumors that Metro Water Services plans to cut off water service to its customers.
THIS IS NOT TRUE.
In response to the rumors, we are concerned that citizens are filling bathtubs, buckets and other containers. This reaction is placing a significant strain on our water supply. We ask all citizens and businesses to stop using water for uses other than drinking, cooking, hand washing, and other critical uses.
Lawn watering, watering of plants, car washing, cleaning sidewalks and parking lots, and similar uses are not essential and need to stop until the water shortages are resolved.
[end copy]
In other words: Yes this is scary, but please think of your neighbors, especially when things are scary.
This also from TN Dept of Environment and Conservation
[begin copy]
As of 1 p.m. on May 4, 2010, the following systems have boil water advisories in effect:
• Ashland City Water Dept. (Cheatham Co.)
• Bon Aqua-Lyles Utility District (Hickman Co.)
• Celina Water System (Clay Co.)
• Centerville Water Sytem (Hickman Co.)
• Lexington Water Systems (Henderson Co.)
• Lobelville Water Department (Perry Co.)
• Michie Water Dept. (McNairy Co.)
• Mount Pleasant Water System #1 (Maury Co.)
• Poplar Grove Utility District (Tipton Co.)
• Ridgewood Park (Giles Co.)
• Trenton Water System (Gibson Co.)
• Waynesboro Water System (Wayne Co.)
• Westmoreland Water System (Sumner Co.)
As of 1 p.m. on May 4, 2010, the following systems no longer have boil water advisories in effect:
• Brentwood (Williamson Co.)
• Castilian Springs-Bethpage Utility District (Sumner Co.)
• Jackson Water System (Madison Co.)
In addition to adhering to boil water advisories, it is critical that water customers in flooded areas who have water service adhere to water conservation measures in order to keep water service available.
This is particularly critical for people in Davidson and Williamson counties. One of Metro Nashville’s two water treatment plants is offline due to flooding, and Metro is asking residents to cut their water consumption by half.
Harpeth Valley Utility District, which serves parts of Davidson and Williamson counties, is also currently operating at half capacity. The Department of Environment and Conservation strongly recommends all municipal water customers in counties affected by flooding practice water conservation measures for nonessential uses. This includes taking steps such as delaying clothes washing, running dishwashers, flushing toilets, washing cars, filling pools and hot tubs, etc.
[end copy]
If you can, help your neighbors. It will give you a sense of hope during the bad times.
If you need help, please don't be too !!!***!!! Tennessee-Stubborn to ask for it.
Stay patient, a sense of humor helps.
Moh', latuh.
Most important bits to be passed along concerns water usage in Davidson County/Nashville:
From TN Dept of Environment and Conservation:
[begin copy]
May 4, 2010 Update from Nashville Metro Water Services: There are rumors that Metro Water Services plans to cut off water service to its customers.
THIS IS NOT TRUE.
In response to the rumors, we are concerned that citizens are filling bathtubs, buckets and other containers. This reaction is placing a significant strain on our water supply. We ask all citizens and businesses to stop using water for uses other than drinking, cooking, hand washing, and other critical uses.
Lawn watering, watering of plants, car washing, cleaning sidewalks and parking lots, and similar uses are not essential and need to stop until the water shortages are resolved.
[end copy]
In other words: Yes this is scary, but please think of your neighbors, especially when things are scary.
This also from TN Dept of Environment and Conservation
[begin copy]
As of 1 p.m. on May 4, 2010, the following systems have boil water advisories in effect:
• Ashland City Water Dept. (Cheatham Co.)
• Bon Aqua-Lyles Utility District (Hickman Co.)
• Celina Water System (Clay Co.)
• Centerville Water Sytem (Hickman Co.)
• Lexington Water Systems (Henderson Co.)
• Lobelville Water Department (Perry Co.)
• Michie Water Dept. (McNairy Co.)
• Mount Pleasant Water System #1 (Maury Co.)
• Poplar Grove Utility District (Tipton Co.)
• Ridgewood Park (Giles Co.)
• Trenton Water System (Gibson Co.)
• Waynesboro Water System (Wayne Co.)
• Westmoreland Water System (Sumner Co.)
As of 1 p.m. on May 4, 2010, the following systems no longer have boil water advisories in effect:
• Brentwood (Williamson Co.)
• Castilian Springs-Bethpage Utility District (Sumner Co.)
• Jackson Water System (Madison Co.)
In addition to adhering to boil water advisories, it is critical that water customers in flooded areas who have water service adhere to water conservation measures in order to keep water service available.
This is particularly critical for people in Davidson and Williamson counties. One of Metro Nashville’s two water treatment plants is offline due to flooding, and Metro is asking residents to cut their water consumption by half.
Harpeth Valley Utility District, which serves parts of Davidson and Williamson counties, is also currently operating at half capacity. The Department of Environment and Conservation strongly recommends all municipal water customers in counties affected by flooding practice water conservation measures for nonessential uses. This includes taking steps such as delaying clothes washing, running dishwashers, flushing toilets, washing cars, filling pools and hot tubs, etc.
[end copy]
If you can, help your neighbors. It will give you a sense of hope during the bad times.
If you need help, please don't be too !!!***!!! Tennessee-Stubborn to ask for it.
Stay patient, a sense of humor helps.
Moh', latuh.
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 4 2010 Evening #3--General Observations
It is more difficult to find information about the outlying counties, which is always worrisome. One phenomenon of recent years has been the shrinkage and/or disappearance of the small-town local paper. At times like this, their absence is really felt.
In general, it appears the State of Tennessee and local authorities have responded well to a challenging situation, which confirms the wisdom of the idea that local control of recovery, as opposed to Federal control, works best. FEMA hasn't really swung into action yet. This is when the really stupid stuff will begin. It's what they do best.
OS's friends who were wiped out have checked in a couple of times. Indeed, almost everything was lost, but power and phones are now back on line. It has been moving to be contacted from friends from around the country and world with offers of help for this family. A photographer friend heads there in the morning to help document their losses, carrying the FEMA forms with her. These are proud people, totally unused to accepting help from anyone, anywhere. Here's hoping events of the past few days will help soften that attitude a bit.
It is a bad situation, and it could have been much worse.
This from the Army Corps of Engineers today:
[begin copy]
Release 10-29
For Immediate Release
May 4, 2010
NASHVILLE, TENN. — The decision to release water from Old Hickory Dam this weekend prevented an additional four feet in flood waters from reaching downtown Nashville, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced.
Water behind the dam in Old Hickory Lake reached a record elevation of 451.4 on Sunday afternoon, just seven inches short of the Corps losing control of the project due to the lake overtopping the dam.
“If we had allowed the lake go to 452 and overtop Old Hickory Dam, the loss of that dam would have added another four feet to the flood levels in downtown Nashville,” explained Lt. Col. Anthony Mitchell, Commander of the Nashville District.
“By making the decision to release water from Old Hickory Dam, our water managers saved the dam and prevented flood waters from reaching even higher,” he added.
“The perception is that flooding along the Cumberland River was made worse by releases from Corps dams,” stated Mitchell. “The truth is that Corps dams kept the flooding throughout the region from being much worse.”
[end copy]
Although by no means the only place in the world generosity is practiced, it is inspiring to see America at her best, as she mobilizes at times like this. If you are reading this from overseas, OS hopes that you will gain insight into who we are as you follow these stories.
Chin straps on, and keep an eye out for those around you in need.
In general, it appears the State of Tennessee and local authorities have responded well to a challenging situation, which confirms the wisdom of the idea that local control of recovery, as opposed to Federal control, works best. FEMA hasn't really swung into action yet. This is when the really stupid stuff will begin. It's what they do best.
OS's friends who were wiped out have checked in a couple of times. Indeed, almost everything was lost, but power and phones are now back on line. It has been moving to be contacted from friends from around the country and world with offers of help for this family. A photographer friend heads there in the morning to help document their losses, carrying the FEMA forms with her. These are proud people, totally unused to accepting help from anyone, anywhere. Here's hoping events of the past few days will help soften that attitude a bit.
It is a bad situation, and it could have been much worse.
This from the Army Corps of Engineers today:
[begin copy]
Release 10-29
For Immediate Release
May 4, 2010
NASHVILLE, TENN. — The decision to release water from Old Hickory Dam this weekend prevented an additional four feet in flood waters from reaching downtown Nashville, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced.
Water behind the dam in Old Hickory Lake reached a record elevation of 451.4 on Sunday afternoon, just seven inches short of the Corps losing control of the project due to the lake overtopping the dam.
“If we had allowed the lake go to 452 and overtop Old Hickory Dam, the loss of that dam would have added another four feet to the flood levels in downtown Nashville,” explained Lt. Col. Anthony Mitchell, Commander of the Nashville District.
“By making the decision to release water from Old Hickory Dam, our water managers saved the dam and prevented flood waters from reaching even higher,” he added.
“The perception is that flooding along the Cumberland River was made worse by releases from Corps dams,” stated Mitchell. “The truth is that Corps dams kept the flooding throughout the region from being much worse.”
[end copy]
Although by no means the only place in the world generosity is practiced, it is inspiring to see America at her best, as she mobilizes at times like this. If you are reading this from overseas, OS hopes that you will gain insight into who we are as you follow these stories.
Chin straps on, and keep an eye out for those around you in need.
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 4 2010 Evening #2 Electric Service/Water Service Update
This also from Nashville.gov:
A lot of different info here.
Notable here is the reminder from FEMA: Take lots of photos if at all possible, and keep all receipts. Documentation is required for assistance.
Water is still being supplied via the city system, but restraint is urged.
Also, info on locations of bottled water distribution, and locations for disaster assistance.
The scammers have come out from under their rocks already, it appears. They are destined for a special circle of perdition, preying upon people whose lives have been upended.
[begin copy]
Hands On Nashville Volunteer Efforts
Nashvillians have and will continue to make remarkable contributions as flood volunteers. In the last 48 hours, more than 7,000 volunteers have registered with Hands On Nashville. Today they will begin staffing Disaster Information Centers and distributing Second Harvest’s Emergency Food Boxes in critical areas, like Antioch, East Nashville, and Opryland/Donelson. As clean-up and recovery continues, the use of volunteers will increase dramatically. If you are interested in serving as a flood volunteer, please register at External Linkwww.hon.org.
Donations
Very specific donation requests include large quantities of the following: diapers, formula, cleaning supplies and rubber gloves, wet vacs, brooms, mops, and generators. If citizens have large quantities, they should contact the Community Foundation.
FEMA Update
As citizens start cleanup efforts, it is important to document everything and keep receipts. As soon as FEMA assistance is available, the public will be provided with information about how they can apply for assistance. FEMA will have 800 numbers and Web sites.
Shelter Update
The shelter in Bellevue located at 655 Colice-Jeanne Road is full and has closed. All other shelters remain open. Bellevue citizens are encouraged to seek shelter at Gordon Jewish Community Center located at 801 Percy Warner Blvd.
Citizens Encouraged to Check on Neighbors
Dr. Paul encourages congregations and neighbors to check on elderly residents in their homes and report those to Metro Health. Elderly neighbors who have been sheltering may need medical assistance or other services. If citizens find a senior with medical emergency they should call 911 and other assistance needs should be directed to 211.
Nashville Electric Service
All circuits coming out of the East Network substation of the Demonbreun substation are out of service. All businesses in the area from Fifth Avenue to First Avenue and from Demonbreun Street to Commerce Street are without power. Power will be out for the next few days downtown due to water in underground vaults. NES has 54 crews working the current outages, and 3,500 total customers without power.
Consumer Advisory
Citizens should be aware of contractors and others who may claim to be associated with local, state or federal agencies. One reported case involves people claiming to be Metro Codes inspectors. Note that all Metro Codes inspectors travel in Metro vehicles. If they are on foot, Metro Codes inspectors will have Metro IDs as proof of their association with Metro. Citizens are cautioned to only work with licensed contractors and to seek multiple bids before having repairs done. To report suspected consumer fraud, file a report with the Tennessee Consumer Affairs Division.
Status of Omohundro Water Plant and Continued Need for Water Conservation
All Metro Water customers continue to receive services, and there are no outages reported at this time. The public water supply provided by Metro Water continues to be safe, but there is some concern that Nashville could experience a water shortage if conservation measures are not taken. Customers are directed to use water for drinking and food preparation only.
The Omohundro Water Treatment Plant continues to operate at normal capacity. The sandbagging operation is maintaining flood protection. However, with the K.R. Harrington Water Treatment Plant out of operation, it is imperative that citizens conserve water. Lack of conservation efforts has resulted in a 15 percent loss of reserves.
Customers in higher elevations may experience reduced water pressure. If a customer loses pressure completely or has discolored water, they should contact Metro Water Services at (615) 862-4600. Harpeth Valley Utilities District treatment plant has also been affected by the flood and their customers are asked to conserve water for essential uses as well.
Bottled Water Distribution
Metro Southeast is being used as a staging area for distribution of donated bottled water to area mobile feeding stations at St. Edwards Church and Bellevue Baptist Church. Walmart, Sam’s Club, Purity Dairies, and Kroger have donated bottled water.
No additional fatalities reported at this time
The Mayor’s Office of Emergency Management has confirmed a total of ten fatalities in Davidson County that are thought to be flood related.
Red Cross Shelters Remain Open
All Red Cross shelters remain open as the operation moves from response to recovery. Damage assessments are being conducted by interdepartmental teams that will provide information to enable long term planning.
Juvenile Court Cancelled
All proceedings at Juvenile Court are cancelled for Wednesday, May 5.
Road Closure Update
No new updates. Public Works is working mudslides and debris and gravel removal.
Disaster Information Centers and Assistance Open Today at Noon
Community-based response for social and human services has begun in coordination with the Metro EOC and Nashville Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). Today at noon Metro will open two Disaster Information Centers to provide general information on utilities, social service assistance, and legal and insurance information. Centers will be staffed by volunteers, Parks Department and other Metro employees. Citizens can drop by for information from 12-8pm.
* Bellevue Community Center
* 656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221
* Coleman Community Center
* 384 Thompson Lane 37211
We will have Salvation Army mobile feeding stations available nearby at St. Edwards Church and Bellevue Baptist Church to provide lunch and dinner for individuals and families who need information support. These centers will not be equipped for medical assistance. Citizens who need emergency assistance are urged to call 911. Metro continues to coordinate volunteers through Hands On Nashville. The most urgent need continues to be cash donations, which can be made to the Metro Disaster Fund.
A lot of different info here.
Notable here is the reminder from FEMA: Take lots of photos if at all possible, and keep all receipts. Documentation is required for assistance.
Water is still being supplied via the city system, but restraint is urged.
Also, info on locations of bottled water distribution, and locations for disaster assistance.
The scammers have come out from under their rocks already, it appears. They are destined for a special circle of perdition, preying upon people whose lives have been upended.
[begin copy]
Hands On Nashville Volunteer Efforts
Nashvillians have and will continue to make remarkable contributions as flood volunteers. In the last 48 hours, more than 7,000 volunteers have registered with Hands On Nashville. Today they will begin staffing Disaster Information Centers and distributing Second Harvest’s Emergency Food Boxes in critical areas, like Antioch, East Nashville, and Opryland/Donelson. As clean-up and recovery continues, the use of volunteers will increase dramatically. If you are interested in serving as a flood volunteer, please register at External Linkwww.hon.org.
Donations
Very specific donation requests include large quantities of the following: diapers, formula, cleaning supplies and rubber gloves, wet vacs, brooms, mops, and generators. If citizens have large quantities, they should contact the Community Foundation.
FEMA Update
As citizens start cleanup efforts, it is important to document everything and keep receipts. As soon as FEMA assistance is available, the public will be provided with information about how they can apply for assistance. FEMA will have 800 numbers and Web sites.
Shelter Update
The shelter in Bellevue located at 655 Colice-Jeanne Road is full and has closed. All other shelters remain open. Bellevue citizens are encouraged to seek shelter at Gordon Jewish Community Center located at 801 Percy Warner Blvd.
Citizens Encouraged to Check on Neighbors
Dr. Paul encourages congregations and neighbors to check on elderly residents in their homes and report those to Metro Health. Elderly neighbors who have been sheltering may need medical assistance or other services. If citizens find a senior with medical emergency they should call 911 and other assistance needs should be directed to 211.
Nashville Electric Service
All circuits coming out of the East Network substation of the Demonbreun substation are out of service. All businesses in the area from Fifth Avenue to First Avenue and from Demonbreun Street to Commerce Street are without power. Power will be out for the next few days downtown due to water in underground vaults. NES has 54 crews working the current outages, and 3,500 total customers without power.
Consumer Advisory
Citizens should be aware of contractors and others who may claim to be associated with local, state or federal agencies. One reported case involves people claiming to be Metro Codes inspectors. Note that all Metro Codes inspectors travel in Metro vehicles. If they are on foot, Metro Codes inspectors will have Metro IDs as proof of their association with Metro. Citizens are cautioned to only work with licensed contractors and to seek multiple bids before having repairs done. To report suspected consumer fraud, file a report with the Tennessee Consumer Affairs Division.
Status of Omohundro Water Plant and Continued Need for Water Conservation
All Metro Water customers continue to receive services, and there are no outages reported at this time. The public water supply provided by Metro Water continues to be safe, but there is some concern that Nashville could experience a water shortage if conservation measures are not taken. Customers are directed to use water for drinking and food preparation only.
The Omohundro Water Treatment Plant continues to operate at normal capacity. The sandbagging operation is maintaining flood protection. However, with the K.R. Harrington Water Treatment Plant out of operation, it is imperative that citizens conserve water. Lack of conservation efforts has resulted in a 15 percent loss of reserves.
Customers in higher elevations may experience reduced water pressure. If a customer loses pressure completely or has discolored water, they should contact Metro Water Services at (615) 862-4600. Harpeth Valley Utilities District treatment plant has also been affected by the flood and their customers are asked to conserve water for essential uses as well.
Bottled Water Distribution
Metro Southeast is being used as a staging area for distribution of donated bottled water to area mobile feeding stations at St. Edwards Church and Bellevue Baptist Church. Walmart, Sam’s Club, Purity Dairies, and Kroger have donated bottled water.
No additional fatalities reported at this time
The Mayor’s Office of Emergency Management has confirmed a total of ten fatalities in Davidson County that are thought to be flood related.
Red Cross Shelters Remain Open
All Red Cross shelters remain open as the operation moves from response to recovery. Damage assessments are being conducted by interdepartmental teams that will provide information to enable long term planning.
Juvenile Court Cancelled
All proceedings at Juvenile Court are cancelled for Wednesday, May 5.
Road Closure Update
No new updates. Public Works is working mudslides and debris and gravel removal.
Disaster Information Centers and Assistance Open Today at Noon
Community-based response for social and human services has begun in coordination with the Metro EOC and Nashville Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). Today at noon Metro will open two Disaster Information Centers to provide general information on utilities, social service assistance, and legal and insurance information. Centers will be staffed by volunteers, Parks Department and other Metro employees. Citizens can drop by for information from 12-8pm.
* Bellevue Community Center
* 656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221
* Coleman Community Center
* 384 Thompson Lane 37211
We will have Salvation Army mobile feeding stations available nearby at St. Edwards Church and Bellevue Baptist Church to provide lunch and dinner for individuals and families who need information support. These centers will not be equipped for medical assistance. Citizens who need emergency assistance are urged to call 911. Metro continues to coordinate volunteers through Hands On Nashville. The most urgent need continues to be cash donations, which can be made to the Metro Disaster Fund.
The Great Middle Tennessee Flood: May 4 2010 Evening Downtown Nashville Power Out
This from nashville.gov
Also contains info about where to obtain assistance in Nashville, and where to donate to help those in need. The biggest need is for cash to the agencies like Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Metro Disaster Fund. It may feel good to donate 'stuff', but 'stuff' is expensive to transport around, and may not be appropriate to the needs at hand in a given location.
And, remember, no 'rubbernecking', especially downtown. They've all got enough to do without dealing with sightseers.
[begin copy]
POWER OUT IN A LARGE PORTION OF DOWNTOWN
Disaster Information Centers and Assistance Open Today at Noon
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2010
EOC Media Desk
(615) 862-8540
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Electric Service’s East Network substation of the Demonbreun substation are out of service. All businesses in the area from Fifth Avenue to First Avenue and from Demonbreun Street to Commerce Street are without power. Power will be out for the next few days downtown due to water in underground vaults. NES has 54 crews working the current outages, and 3,500 total customers without power.
Disaster Information Centers and Assistance Open Today at Noon
Community-based response for social and human services has begun in coordination with the Metro EOC and Nashville Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). Today at noon Metro will open two Disaster Information Centers to provide general information on utilities, social service assistance, and legal and insurance information. Centers will be staffed by volunteers, Parks Department and other Metro employees. Citizens can drop by for information from 12-8pm.
Bellevue Community Center
656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221
Coleman Community Center
384 Thompson Lane 37211
We will have Salvation Army mobile feeding stations available nearby at St. Edwards Church and Bellevue Baptist Church to provide lunch and dinner for individuals and families who need information support. These centers will not be equipped for medical assistance. Citizens who need emergency assistance are urged to call 911. Metro continues to coordinate volunteers through Hands On Nashville. The most urgent need continues to be cash donations, which can be made to the Metro Disaster Fund.
Also contains info about where to obtain assistance in Nashville, and where to donate to help those in need. The biggest need is for cash to the agencies like Red Cross, Salvation Army, and Metro Disaster Fund. It may feel good to donate 'stuff', but 'stuff' is expensive to transport around, and may not be appropriate to the needs at hand in a given location.
And, remember, no 'rubbernecking', especially downtown. They've all got enough to do without dealing with sightseers.
[begin copy]
POWER OUT IN A LARGE PORTION OF DOWNTOWN
Disaster Information Centers and Assistance Open Today at Noon
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2010
EOC Media Desk
(615) 862-8540
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Electric Service’s East Network substation of the Demonbreun substation are out of service. All businesses in the area from Fifth Avenue to First Avenue and from Demonbreun Street to Commerce Street are without power. Power will be out for the next few days downtown due to water in underground vaults. NES has 54 crews working the current outages, and 3,500 total customers without power.
Disaster Information Centers and Assistance Open Today at Noon
Community-based response for social and human services has begun in coordination with the Metro EOC and Nashville Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD). Today at noon Metro will open two Disaster Information Centers to provide general information on utilities, social service assistance, and legal and insurance information. Centers will be staffed by volunteers, Parks Department and other Metro employees. Citizens can drop by for information from 12-8pm.
Bellevue Community Center
656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221
Coleman Community Center
384 Thompson Lane 37211
We will have Salvation Army mobile feeding stations available nearby at St. Edwards Church and Bellevue Baptist Church to provide lunch and dinner for individuals and families who need information support. These centers will not be equipped for medical assistance. Citizens who need emergency assistance are urged to call 911. Metro continues to coordinate volunteers through Hands On Nashville. The most urgent need continues to be cash donations, which can be made to the Metro Disaster Fund.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
And, From The UK Election Campaign, Just For Laughs('Cuz We All Need To Laugh)
Strangers In The Night, a brilliant little spoof by Gerald Warner at The Telegraph.
It's reminiscent of the work of the late, great Art Buchwald, who kept us laughing at the political idiocy of the '60s and '70s.
Well done, well done!
It's reminiscent of the work of the late, great Art Buchwald, who kept us laughing at the political idiocy of the '60s and '70s.
Well done, well done!
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