Woodlands Nature Station 'Turtles & Kids'

LBL encourages visitors to celebrate nature with an up-close look at all sorts of creatures, especially those that are often under-appreciated. Cool & Crawly Critters Day will be at Woodlands Nature Station, Saturday, July 10 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. The day’s events include games, crafts, entertainment, and lots of cool and crawly critters such as bugs, snakes, turtles, and more.  Throughout the day, scientists and naturalists who study these animals will be on hand to conduct programs and answer questions.

“The Nature Station will be buzzing with opportunities for children to learn first-hand about the benefits of critters that sometimes give us the creeps,” explained NS employee Carrie Szwed.  “Families will experience a full day of discovery!”

Featured programs for the day include:

10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.        For Goodness Snakes
11:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.       Animal Tales
3:30 p.m.                         Insect Olympics

Families are encouraged to pack a picnic lunch and come ready for a day of fun while learning about these amazingly cool animals.  The day offers a variety of activities for all ages, but is especially geared for ages 5-12. Activities are ongoing throughout the day from 10am to 4pm.  Event admission fee is $4 ages 13 and up, $3 ages 5-12, and free 4 and under.  Cool and Crawly Critters Day is perfect for Home Educators.  All programs are included with event admission.

Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education.

 Additional LBL information is also available on their website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.

The branches that once held the nest

Fort Donelson’s Eagle family is “homeless” today after the nest they have occupied for more than five years tumbled to the ground sometime between Sunday evening and Monday morning.

The adult eagles, which have raised multiple broods in this nest just a few hundred feet from Fort Donelson’s access road, hatched two eaglets this year; the first flew from the nest just over a week ago, while the second was still “finding his wings” and was frequently photographed prancing around the edge of enormous nest.

Eagle’s nests can measure more than eight feet in diameter. Park rangers had estimated that this year’s nest was more than ten feet in diameter.

A young eagle surveys the land beyond the nest.

Rangers and a cadre of photographers arriving Monday morning — as they have done throughout the nesting period — were shocked to discover  the tumble of twigs and branches on the ground, and the top of the tree bare.

Rangers admitted that the tree the eagles chose was leafless and dead, making the nest highly visible to photographers, not just from Tennessee and Kentucky, but from many other states.

Site of the fallen nest

Officials  also said the nest had been “shaky” and deteriorating. Surprisingly, this nest survived a harsh winter and multiple spring storms with extremely high winds. Then, in the windless night, it apparently came tumbling down.

Photographers, park visitors, and rangers are hopeful the eagles will remain at Fort Donelson, but the big question that lingers is, “Will they rebuild in the same tree or find another, more stable and perhaps less accessible (to humans) place to build another nest?”

The month of June is full of outdoor activities and events sure to appeal to the outdoor person in all of us. First on the list is an opportunity for budding nature lovers on June 4, when children can  join the Kids Critter Club: Session 1. For more information, call 270-924-2020.

Water sports fans will want to catch the Drag Boat Races at Pisagh Bay on June 5 and 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 800-732-0088 or visit www.kdba.net for more info.

Saturday is  Children’s Day at LBL; it is a full day of activities just for the young ones. “All Work and No Play Makes Jack a Dull Boy” is a slate of activities at The Homeplace which highlight a farm child’s world of play and fun. Mother Goose will be on hand with stories and games from pioneer days to delight young minds and hearts. The program schedule has events scheduled for 9:30 a.m. til 4 p.m.

National Trails Day also has a Children’s Day focus with its “Be an Outdoors Kid” Hike. The hike will start at 2:15 p.m. beginning at The Woodlands Nature Station.

Evening time on National Trails Day offers another opportunity to appreciate nature’s wonders. End out the day with the Hematite Lake Evening Walk. This is an evening walk on the 2.2 mile loop around Hematite Lake. Among the many natural wonders to be seen is possibly nature’s greatest free fireworks show- the dazzling mystery of lightning bugs along the lake shores.

Or maybe you’re more the indoor type. Saturday the Golden Pond Planetarium will present two Laser Light Music Shows, 7 and 8:30 p.m. The 7 p.m show will feature Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. The 8:30 p.m. will feature Lasermania. The Saturday shows are by advance tickets only. Call 1-270-924-2154 to reserve yours. Doors open 30 minutes before each show. Don’t be late. There will be no late admissions. Visit www.lbl.org or www.friendsoflbl.org for show details.

Eagle Fest 2010 festival opened Saturday morning with a parade and an array of vendors in place, including arts, crafts and food. Among the delicacies cooked to order: homemade potato chips, a massive breaded onion, and a perennial favorite, funnel cakes.

A number of local agencies, including canine search and rescue, local officials, 2010 election candidates,  and FEMA, which positioned itself to offer assistance to those affected by the recent flooding. FEMA also had its mobile Disaster Relief office stationed at the Stewart County Public Library for three days to assist locals in flood recovery.

The military presence was equally noted as the National Guard set up a mobile ‘climbing wall,” a popular attraction despite the heat. Just four weeks ago, National Guardsmen were deployed to the Eagle Fest location for a different mission; delivering sandbags to stave off flooding in Stewart County.

The festival included a  vintage car show, non-stop music, memorial services, and a homemade  ice-cream tasting contest.

The celebrated eagles of Fort Donelson were the subject of numerous photographers; one fledgling has left the nest, while a second is testing his wigs in anticipation of a first flight.

Children were entertained with a “dunking” booth and several inflatables.

The Dover-Stewart County Farmers Market opened Friday morning at 7 a.m. under a new pavilion at the Stewart County Riding Club off Fort Donelson Highway (Hwy 79) at Sandy Road. David Rose, owner of the pavilion and corrals, was pleased with the 2010 market debut.

Jacob Rose his last jar of Clover Honey

He and his young son Jacob were manning several tables, with an assist from Kent Pratt, Theresa Boren and Michael Gray from Progressive Directions.

By 10 a.m., the bulk of available early season vegetables and other items was down to “lean pickin’s…” — which is exactly what market merchants want to see.

According to Stewart County Extension Agent Joe Griffy, the pavilion and its facilities were funded through an $80,000 grant, “stimulus money.” The sign was funded with a portion of a $1,000 grant from Five Rivers RC&D. Griffy noted that the market will be open  every Friday from 7 a.m. to noon through late Fall, and a Saturday opening is being considered.

Deanna Thompson pinch hits for her dad, Larry Mathis, at the farmers market

Deanna Thompson  was pinch-hitting for her father, Larry Mathis, in their corner of the market space, with a selection of plants and overflowing boxes of delicate yellow squash.

Linda Hays of Evawood Bakery showcased an array of home-baked breads and served up delicate, soothing teas. Her son, Jason Langley, was lobbying on behalf of Testicular Cancer Awareness, selling raffle tickets (prize: a huge, fully stocked tool cart) for that cause.

Land Between the Lakes staff has planned several projects and events for its participation in the 18th annual National Trails Day on  June 5. Staff and volunteers from LBL and “Friends of LBL”  are planning a National Trails Day project  near Smith Bay on the North/South Trail.  The beginning stages of a 1.5-mile re-route is scheduled, including flagging the new trail and brush removal.  Staff and volunteers will meet at Gray Cemetery on Road 130 (2 miles west of The Trace) at 8:30 a.m. and working from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

“Trails are a great way to get active and get outdoors, this workday is an opportunity to give back to the places you enjoy,” explains Kyle Varel, LBL Assistant Trails Manager.

LBL offers hikers, bikers, and riders, both four-legged and four-wheeled, hundreds of miles of scenic trails along green forests, open lands, and tranquil shoreline.  In addition to trail work opportunities there will be guided hikes led by LBL staff.  At 2:15 p.m., Woodlands Nature Station will host “Be an Outdoors Kid” hike to teach basic outdoor skills. Atwo-mile evening walk is slated for  7-8:30 pm at Hematite Lake Trailhead.

“Volunteers are very important to public lands, and we welcome anyone who is interested.  This is a wonderful way to meet other outdoor enthusiasts and learn more about LBL and other volunteer opportunities that are available here,” said Emily Schmadeke, Volunteer Coordinator with Friends of LBL.

Participants volunteering to help out on the hiking or biking trails are encouraged to pre-register by calling 270-924-2007.  Bottled water and Permethrin insect repellant will be provided; however, participants are encouraged to bring their lunch, sturdy boots, and work gloves with them.

For more information, contact Emily Schmadeke at 800-455-5897 or 270-924-2007, or by email at eschmadeke@friendsoflbl.org or Kyle Varel at 270-924-2031 or email at kvarel@fs.fed.us.

Additional LBL volunteer opportunities available

Additional volunteer opportunities at LBL include the Adopt-A-Trail Program.  For volunteers who have an interest in equestrian trail riding at LBL, there are several areas of LBL’s trails now available for adoption!  For more information, contact Emily Schmadeke at the number above.

Additional LBL information is also available by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.  You can find out more about “Friends of LBL” at www.friendsoflbl.org.

American Bald Eagle, for which this festival is named. photo by David W. Shelton

The City of Dover in Stewart County is revving up for its 4th annual Eagle Fest, which will be held at Church Street/Highway 79 May 22-23, with a special Memorial Day ceremony at For Donelson on Monday, May 31 at 1 p.m.

The festival begins with an 8 a.m. “Soaring Eagle Race,” a 5k run/walk from City Park. The opening ceremon will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, kicking off a day of arts and crafts, along with food vendors, children’s activities and music.  Entertainment begins at noon.

At 10 a.m., a car show will be staged at Gateway Ford.  At the same time, the Veteran’s and Eaglets (children’s) Parade steps off (line-up is at First Baptist Church Family Life Center at 208 Church Street.

Residents and visitors will be “dancing in the streets” at 7 p.m., when the festival’s street dance begin at Sentry Armor.

Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. brings the day’s events to a close.Fire works can be viewed from Sentry Armor’s parking lot.

On Sunday, the festivval opens with a Sunday service on the mainstage, followed by  arts and crafts, music and more throughout the day. A homemade ice cream contest begins at 3 p.m..

In keeping with the true spirit of Memorial Day, a Sunday evening vigil for veterans and a walk to the luminary program will be held. At 8:30, at dusk, a luminary program will get underway at the Fort Donelson National Cemetery.

While the Eagle Fest celebrations downtown end Sunday evening, Memorial Day services continue at Fort Donelson National Cemetery, where a 1 p.m. ceremony will honors the lives and sacrifices of all who have served our country over the years.

For additional information, contact Dover City Hall at 931-232-8290, Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

GOLDEN POND, KY: The Homeplace  staff at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area  believes that, “All Work and No Play Makes Jack a Dull Boy.” With that sage proverb in mind, the June 5 Children’s Day at the Homeplace will focus on 1850’s entertainment.  Mother Goose rhymes and themed activities will help modern day kids experience old-fashioned fun and entertainment including outdoor play, parlor games, stories, music, work bees, and homemade toys.

A full day of activities is scheduled on the Homeplace farm from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.  Mother Goose stories and group games will be offered throughout the day at 11 a.m.-noon, 1-2 p.m., and 3-4 p.m..  Admission is $4 ages 13 and up, $3 ages 5-12, and 4 and under are free (includes Homeplace admission).

“This year’s event is a unique twist to Children’s Day.  “All Work and No Play Makes Jack a Dull Boy,” was an old proverb warning parents that children needed to experience playtime in order to learn.  Although an 1850’s child had to work hard on the farm, there were many opportunities to play in a child’s day.” – Cindy Earls, Special Events Coordinator.

Cherri Coleman, Nashville native and professional storyteller, will be at the farm to charm children with her whimsical portrayal of Mother Goose.  Her folklore and traditional tales include games, songs, and hands-on discovery for young and old alike.  Kids will also be able to collect Mother Goose rhymes throughout the day and turn them into a storybook to take home.

The Homeplace is located in the Tennessee portion of LBL.  Pack a picnic lunch, bring your camera, and come ready for an enjoyable day of fun and discovery.  The day offers a variety of activities for all ages, but is especially geared for ages 5-12 and for home educators.  Come out and experience the fun side of a farm child’s life and be entertained by Mother Goose and her stories.  Both children and adults can be sure to use their imagination as they learn to play the 1850’s way.

Additional LBL information is also available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.  Find more about “Friends of LBL”at www.friendsoflbl.org.

Before you plan a visit, check for updates on the ‘Travel Flash’ page on their website at www.lbl.org or “Call Before You Haul,” 270-924-2000, for current information and details.

Houston County has been declared a federal disaster area following flooding from the from torrential rains during the weekend of May 1-2. The county sustain heavy damage to business and personal property, and most of the road and bridges in the county sustained damage.

While current food stamp recipients are eligible for the federal benefit to replace food lost in the floodwater or because of power outages, even those not currently receiving food stamp benefits can get a one-time benefit.
Recipients must meet low income requirements and live in counties declared disaster areas. Those who have also registered for FEMA help are eligible for a one-time cash payment of $250 through the Department of Human Services.

Applicants for the emergency food stamps and cash assistance must apply in person at a county’s Department of Human Services office or at the FEMA disaster center at Pageant Lane in Clarksville.

Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area is offering walk and talk tours to visit an excavation being conducted by students attending the Murray State University (MSU) archaeological field school. This year’s field school continues excavations that began last year in the area of former slave quarters associated with the Center Furnace community.

Two tours will be held at 1 and 3 p.m. each Friday afternoon in June. Participants will meet and leave from Woodlands Nature Station and walk about ¼ mile to where the dig is taking place. While walking to the dig site, you will hear about the iron industry history at LBL. Visitors will examine the landscape and history surrounding the Center Furnace community, which was one of nine iron furnace communities Between the Rivers.

Walking tour participants will then visit the dig site and learn about the archaeological investigation that Dr. Kit Wesler and his MSU students are conducting in this portion of the former community. The group is trying to identify the location of former slave quarters based on a hand-drawn map. Participants do not need to RSVP for this program. The event will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.

Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education.  LBL information and maps are available on our website at www.lbl.org or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.  Find out more about “Friends of LBL” at www.friendsoflbl.org.

Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area 2010 summer activities provide the opportunity to celebrate the simple pleasures of exploring, learning, and simply being outdoors in LBL’s beautiful, natural scenery.

The Homeplace season takes off with the Pickin’ Party Old Time Music Festival coming up on May 29-30.  Live music, open mic, great food, and a festival atmosphere will bring the hollow to life with live music. Children’s Play Day will be held  June 5, with stories., games and more.   The Homeplace will also offer the traditional Independence Day Celebration on July 4, complete with a visit from Kentucky statesman Henry Clay.

The Woodlands Nature Station will kick off summer with River Days, May 29-31.  This festival gives families the opportunity to learn about animals that make lakes and rivers their homes, participate in fun activities, and even take excursions out on the water.  The station will offer staff interpreter led canoe trips along the LBL shoreline throughout the summer.  Cool and Crawly Critters Day will be held July 10; this event will give kids the chance to get an up close look at bugs, snakes, turtles, and more.  The ever popular Hummingbird Weekend to be held August 6-8 will feature ruby throated hummingbird programs, workshops, and even dinner with these vibrant creatures.

Celebrate the 2^nd Annual National Get Outdoors Day on June 12, with activities all over LBL and an Expo at the Golden Pond Visitor Center.  Stop by the Planetarium anytime to cool off after spending a fun filled day in the sun.  Laser Light Music Shows, featuring a variety of musical hits, will begin May 28.  The Summer Nights planetarium and astronomy program will begin June 12.  Both of these events will run throughout the summer season.

Wrap up summer at LBL with activities and a visit from Smokey Bear during Summer Finale September 3-6, at the Nature Station.  The HP will host an 1850’s County Fair and Storytelling Festival September 4-5.  LBL offers a variety of programs throughout the season that are ideal for families and home educators.  For more information on these programs, visit the Calendar of Events at www.lbl.org. Load the RV or pack the tent, bring the bikes or fuel up the boat, and experience summer at LBL!

Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education. Additional LBL information is also available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.

FEMA's Banner designates the location

With Montgomery and surrounding counties now deemed disaster areas, two resources offering assistance have temporarily taken over come county office space, centralizing services and resources for flood victims.

One hundred million dollars in federal assistance has been designated for the survivors of the Tennessee flood of 2010. The federal disaster funds included $90.7 million in housing ai including rentals and repair, and $9.5 million for other needs including personal property.

FEMA and SBA are now set up in Montgomery County Civic Hall, 350 Pageant Lane, as part of the area’s disaster recovery center. FEMA and SBA representatives are ready to help those affected by the recent flood. Both agencies will be available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, seven days a week.

FEMA Disaster Center Manager Pat Lynn answers Piesyk's questions

The FEMA Disaster Center manager, Pat Lynn, encourages anyone affected by the floods to seek assistance through the center and the register with FEMA either online or at the center. Individuals can also use the center’s phone banks to register with FEMA. No business at the center is transacted by phone; instead, those in need of assistance must go to the center, sign in and then visit one of several “stations” where specialists assist with everything from financial aid applications to emergency food stamp applications. The SBA, HUD, Department of Human Services, Community Action Commission, along with IRS information and more are centralized at this one location.

“We encourage folks to come in and meet with you,” Lynn said. We can help with housing and personal property needs and issues.” She added that HUD works with landlords to find rental properties for those displaced by the flood. SBA is on hand to assist business owners and individuals with recovery efforts.

Lynn noted a distinction between FEMA and SBA: “FEMA offers grants; the SBA offers low interest loans.”

“FEMA is a designed to be a ‘leg up,’” Lynn said. “It helps you get started again; it is not a replacement for everything you have lost.”

FEMA also has a “mitigation” expert to assist with issues of mold and mildew, which are sometimes impossible to prevent in cases of flooding.

Jackie Johnson and Tamika Hinton, TN Dept. of Human Services, offer assistance

The IRS offers tax information that can help flood victims determined how to account for their losses for the next filing season or for deciding whether you amend the current year’s returns.

The USDA has information available at the center for farmers impacted by the flooding.

Tamika Hinton at the Department of Human Services station noted that they will stop taking emergency food stamp applications at the center on Thursday at 5 p.m, unless their deadline is extended.

“We have a wealth of information,” Hinton said, adding that while business at their table has been steady, many people are often still reluctant to apply for food stamps. “We have a quick application, and some people will be eligible for any combination of food stamps and cash assistance or both, depending on the circumstances.”

Nigel Commack, SBA Loan Advisor is ready to assist flood victims,

More than 200 businesses and many families were affected by the flooding of May 2-3, including virtually every business on Riverside Drive in the Historic Riverfront District. This FEMA/SBA office will serve both businesses and individuals in need of assistance and information.

Nearly $640,000 in loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration has been approved.

Over 34,300 people in the 42 designated counties, including Montgomery, Stewart and Houston counties, have registered with FEMA for Individual Assistance.

Since he floods struck in early May, 2,600 people have visited one of 14 state and federal Disaster Recovery Centers for assistance from recovery specialists.

Teams of community relations specialists have provided information to more than 14,000 flood survivors and have visited more than 300 faith-based organizations, 200 community based organizations and 500 business.

To apply for assistance in Clarksville-Montgomery County Tennessee visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Civic Hall in Veterans Plaza (350 Pageant Lane) in person. the center is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week until further notice.

Programs target disaster counties

NASHVILLE, TN: The Tennessee Department of Human Services is working quickly to address some of the basic immediate needs of the low-income families and individuals affected by the devastating storms and floods that swept through Tennessee the weekend of April 30th. The programs began today and only be available for seven days in counties that have received a presidential disaster declaration. DHS offices in affected counties will be open this Saturday.

The federal Food Stamp disaster program has been approved by the USDA to serve individuals and households not currently enrolled in the program as well as providing additional benefits for those families currently enrolled in the program. Food Stamp disaster benefits are available to households that meet the following criteria:

• Reside in a county that has been designated as a federal disaster area
• Have unreimbursed expenses because of storm/flood-related property damage or loss
• Have an adjusted income below the Food Stamp disaster income limit after allowing for disaster-related expenses

In addition, DHS is operating a replacement Food Stamp program for current beneficiaries that experienced food loss due to power outages but did not have other flood related damage. If a recipient lost power for more than 12 hours due to severe storms, replacement benefits can be made available for the food that was spoiled. Recipients must report the loss to DHS by May 21.

The state has also created a short-term emergency cash assistance program for low-income individuals and families whohave registered with FEMA. Cash payments of $250 are available to one and two person households or $500 forhouseholds of three or more individuals. Household income cannot exceed 130 percent of the federal poverty limit, and the applicant must live in one of the counties designated as a federal disaster area. The applicant’s home or apartment must be uninhabitable on the date of application or the home requires repairs due to damage from the disaster.

Request for assistance must be made at the local DHS office in the designated disaster counties. Disaster emergency cash and Food Stamp (SNAP) assistance programs will be available for seven (7) days beginning Thursday, May 13 and run through Thursday, May 21. Offices will be open on Saturday, May 15 but will be closed on Sunday. DHS office hours for the affected counties during the seven days that these emergency programs are in operation will be 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. For more information, visit the DHS website at www.tn.gov/humanserv.

Residents throughout Tennessee can also call 2-1-1 for Food Stamp/SNAP and other disaster information or visit the TEMA website at www.tnema.org. For a list of DHS offices in the affected areas, see the following page:

Disaster Income Limit: 1 person,$1503; two people, $1815, three people, $2126; four people $2450; five people, $2788; six people, $3125; seven people, $3437; each additional person,  +$312.

Disaster Food Stamp Amount: 1 person, $200; two people, $367; three people, $526;four people, $668; five people, $793; six people, $952; seven people, $1052; each additional person, +$150.

Gross Monthly Income:  one person, $1174; two people, $1579; three people, $1984; four people, $2389; five people, $2794; six people, $3200; seven people, $3605.

For assistance, go to the agency in your county.

DHS Cheatham County Office, 286 Frey Street, Suite 101, Ashland City, (615) 792?5628

DHS Dickson, County Office, 250 State Street, Dickson, (615) 740?2251

DHS Houston County Office, 21 Store Front Drive, Erin, (931) 289?4105

DHS Montgomery County Office, 350 Pageant Lane Suite 301, Clarksville, (931) 648?5500

DHS Stewart County Office, 1011 Spring Street, Dover, (931) 232?5304

Debbie Stinson of Radical Mission Compassionate Ministries offers her assistance to a flood victim.

The Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce Flood Recovery Expo took place today at Austin Peay State University’s Red Barn. The Expo, which opened at 10 a.m., brought together agencies and organizations applicable to flood relief assistance. Each participant had access to a booth space, round-robin style, to present and hand out information to flood victims.

Debbie Stinson, a volunteer for Radical Mission Compassionate Ministries, explained the importance of helping the community. “Anyone that can offer help should,” said Stinson. “Radical Mission is willing to help with emergency housing, food provision and so much more.”

United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region was also at the Expo to volunteer their services. The United Way hand-out included a list of county-wide collection and distribution sites for access to food, clothing, cleaning supplies and bedding. “Our community should stand united and lean on each other during this time,” said Beckie Moore, Executive Director of United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region.

FEMA was on hand at the Flood Recovery Expo to explain the process of filing a flood damage claim.

National agencies such as FEMA and SBA Disaster Assistance saw a steady stream of people seeking information at their respective booths. “The U.S. Small Business Administration is able to grant both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans to Cheatham, Davidson,Hickman and Williamson counties in Tennessee,” said Michael Lampton, SBA representative. “Small businesses and most private non-profit in Dickson, Humphreys, Lewis, Marshall, Maury, Montgomery, Perry, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner and Wilson counties are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans.”

The Clarksville Police Department offered advice on safe business redesigns for those businesses faced with rebuilding due to the amount of damage incurred. The police department also offered tips on setting up a neighborhood watch program to help secure vacant or damaged residences.

Wendy Harrison, a Clarksville-Montgomery County Career Center employee, said that she hopes businesses impacted by the flood will be able to get back to work soon. “I don’t want to see anyone have to try and find another job,” said Harrison. “People are already hurting so much.” Unfortunately, the booth was handing out a lot of information regarding filing for unemployment due to the number of businesses on Riverside Drive that are temporarily not open.Those employees are eligible for fast-tracked unemployment benefits.

Susan Thomas, Health Department RN, hands out information on free tetanus shots for flood victims.

The following agencies and organizations participated in the Flood Recovery Expo:

• Better Business Bureau
• Charter Communications
• City of Clarksville Building and Codes
• City of Clarksville Chief of Staff
• City of Clarksville Fire Department
• City of Clarksville Gas & Water
• City of Clarksville Housing and Community Development
• City of Clarksville Police Department
• City of Clarksville Risk Manager
• City of Clarksville Street Department
• Community Action Agency
• FEMA
• Hands on Clarksville
• Montgomery County Health Department
• Operation Homefront
• Radical Mission Compassionate Ministries
• Clarksville-Montgomery County American Red Cross
• Regional Planning Commission
• Salvation Army
• Small Business Administration
• The Community Foundation
• TN Department of Labor
• Unemployment Office
• United Way
• Urban Ministries
• Workforce Development
• Workforce Essentials

Lylewood Road is a river lane

Lylewood Inn Bed and Breakfast straddles the Montgomery and Stewart County line. Fronted by the Cumberland River and Wildcat Creek, the inn sits high above Camp Lylewood Road looking out over gently rolling hills towards Sailors Rest. Access is provided by Hwy 233, Lylewood Road and Camp Lylewood Road: it’s a meandering drive through wetlands and beaver-built water navigation control mechanisms — beaver dams. Today, though, that drive is short-circuited by high waters still overrunning parts of Lower Lylewood and Camp Lylewood Roads.

The cozy ambiance of the inn is beyond the reach of these standing waters; the waters prevent would-be guests from enjoying the quiet tranquility of the hillside retreat. The inn’s signature peacock is restricted to strutting about the inn’s immediate high grounds, unable to wander through the underbrush of Wildcat Creek.

Looking out towards Sailors Rest

Sailors Rest has fared better, with a noticeable absence of high water, as viewed from the front porch of the inn. This Cumberland retreat has yet to see a discernible dip in the water level on the flooded roads. Lylewood Inn joins those Stewart County businesses dealing with the aftermath of the river’s flood. Unlike Cross Creek Wildlife Refuge, Lylewood needs those visitors to be able to breach their front door.

Photos courtesy Ms Mandy Williams, Lylewood Inn Bed & Breakfast.

Dover City Park floating boat dock partially submerged

Just Tuesday morning, Dyers Creek Recreation Area was re-opened. The roadway is not yet clear of all river flood debris and the picnic area is not usable. The boat launch area is passable.  Picnic tables are still underwater and the status of the porta-potties is yet to be determined. Bumpus Mills Road is open and clear. The waters have receded back into the overflow areas and are six to eight feet below the road and no longer cover the road itself. Also, school reopened in Dover, a sure sign that normalcy is returning.

Lylewood Road just past Burkhart Road remains closed due to flooding

State Highways 49, 149 and 46 are open. This gives access to Cumberland City, Erin, Clarksville and Tennessee Ridge. State Highway 233 to Blooming Grove Road is open and clear. The large lagoon that ran alongside Blooming Grove Road has disappeared entirely leaving visual evidence of the impact of high waters that ran through the area. The bridge on Lylewood Road at John Taylor Road is clear and open. Travel to the Lylewood Inn and Campground by Lylewood  Road just past Burkhart Road is closed due to continuing high water.

Cross Creek’s National Wildlife Refuge at Wildlife Road remains flooded. The entire refuge is closed to the public until further notice. Rangers expect the waters will not recede appreciably for the next two weeks. The rangers will inspect and evaluate the levies of the North Area over the next few days. The public should not expect to utilize the refuge for several weeks.  The Visitor Center is open and the observation affords a clear view of the flooded plains. However, access into the actual refuge is not possible at this time.

North Cross Creek entrance roadway remains flooded

Dover’s City Park boat launch area remains flooded in the off-road recreational vehicles parking and picnic areas. Tie-up docks remain nearly submerged by the increased level of the lake. Picnic tables are submerged and remain islands isolated by the overflow of river waters. The off-road exit path area is also still underwater.

A detailed notice is available at the county website: http://www.stewartcountygovernment.com/. The following is a list of road closures in Stewart County as of Monday morning (5/10/10):

Lower Alsup Road, Cub Creek Road, Lee Hollow Road (lower end), Wildcat Creek Road, Frank Earhart Road, Lewis Circle, Lower Bellwood Landing Road, Lower Standing Rock Road, Commissary Hollow Road, River Road, Cherry Chapel Road, Patricia Circle Road.  State Rt. 434 in Cumberland City is also closed.

Many other roads are damaged or washed out in spots. Emergency officials urge caution when traveling and  warn that there are a number of water snakes as well as sewage in the floodwaters. Residents are advised not to go in the water. Anyone needing assistance is asked to call 931-232-3014.

On  May 8 FEMA declared Stewart County a major disaster area, making the county eligible for both public assistance and individual assistance. Individual assistance from FEMA is available for both homeowners and businesses. Individuals with home or business damage from the flood waters need to call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA or visit www.disasterassistance.gov. Calls need to be made as soon as possible to register for assistance. FEMA is expected to come to the county and set up a Disaster Recovery Center. Information on that development will be reported as it becomes available.

The water levels are dropping slowly, but flood levels are expected to remain high throughout the week. There are still road closures in the county. Rain predicted for the week is expected to be minimal. If anyone needs water or other assistance, please call our EMA office at 931-232-3014.

People should not be in the water throughout our county and other affected areas, and the Stewart County Community Medical Center is giving out free tetanus shots to anyone in need. Please call 931-232-5329 for more information.

Be advised that the Dover water system is on a water conservation situation right now, a temporary but necessary action that will be in effect until further notice. Please do not fill bathtubs, buckets, wash cars or anything of this nature.

More flood concern information is listed at the Stewart County website. Residents are urged to visit the site for further updates. Free legal assistance for flood disaster is available through the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services. The Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services is working with the Tennessee Bar Association, other statewide legal organizations and local bar associations to help flood victims in need of advice about insurance claims, replacing lost documents such as Medicare cards, applying for benefits and other issues.

A toll-free legal assistance line (1-888-395-9297) was activated on Friday for victims of storms in counties designated as a federal disaster area. The service, operated in partnership with the TBA, local bar associations and other legal organizations, is staffed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and messages can be left any time. Victims who qualify for assistance will be matched with lawyers who will provide free legal help.

Houston County Update: Houston County is now listed as one of the counties eligible for FEMA assistance; call or go online to find more information. 1-800-621-FEMA. FEMA will also be set up in the Erin City Hall. Call City Hall at 931-289-4108 for more information 931-289-4108.

Sen. Tim Barnes provided an update on ways to give and receive help in our area, as well as details on applying for federal assistance.

How to help

• Hands On Clarksville is organizing area relief efforts, including 17 volunteer opportunities for Monday. Visit http://hon.org/AboutUs/index.php/clarksville/handsonclarksville.html for more information on how you can get involved.
• The local chapter of the American Red Cross is accepting monetary donations at 585 S. Riverside Drive , Suite L, Clarksville , TN 37040 . Contributors should write “local” or “ Clarksville ” on checks to dedicate the funds to local relief efforts.
• The Clarksville Area Ministerial Association is accepting non-perishable foods; new and gently used clothes, shoes, blankets; and bottled water. Call 931-358-3010 for more information.

How to get help

• Several area churches are offering food, clothing and other forms of aid. Those churches include Faith Outreach Church, 731 Windemere Drive in Clarksville , which is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day this week to help victims. Please contact your area churches to find out about their relief efforts.
• The Red Cross and the Emergency Management Agency are distributing clean-up kits and bottled water at Veterans Plaza in Clarksville from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Cheatham, Houston and Montgomery Counties have been declared a federal disaster area, meaning residents affected by the flood can contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency for damage assistance. You can apply for federal assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or you can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Montgomery County residents can go to the temporary Red Cross shelter at Hilldale Baptist Church , 2001 Madison St. in Clarksville to fill out FEMA forms and receive help.

What FEMA expects from you

When you apply, the agency will ask for the following information:

1. The address of your damaged home or apartment.
2. Names of people living in your home or apartment.
3. A description of your disaster damages.
4. Insurance information.
5. Your Social Security Number.
6. A telephone number where we can reach you or leave a message.
7. An address where you can get mail.
8. If you want your disaster assistance funds sent directly to your bank, you will need to provide your bank account type, account number and routing number.

What you should expect from FEMA

• FEMA will give you an application number when you apply. Write it down and save it, because FEMA will ask for it whenever you contact the agency.
• Save receipts for any relief supplies you purchase, as you may also turn those in to FEMA.
• When it comes to housing needs, FEMA can provide funds for temporary housing, repair and replacement – but FEMA will cover uninsured losses only up to $29,900. For some victims, that will make just a small dent in the losses they sustained. That’s why the continued support from our community is so important, because only together will we be able to help our neighbors fully recover.
• For those who have been affected, FEMA also offers low-interest loans of up to $200,000 for those rebuilding homes, and up to $2 million for businesses, through the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA loan applicants can call 1-800-659-2955 for assistance.

Finally, please be wary of out-of-state contractors and repair offers that seem too good to be true. You can check or report any business by calling the Clarksville office of the Better Business Bureau at 931-503-2210 or 1-800-989-4222. You can also call the BBB’s 24-hour hotline at 615-242-4222. It’s hard to believe there are people who would want to take advantage of these victims, but they are out there, and we all need to be aware of them.

Please remember that this is just the beginning of our road to recovery. If you need any help getting to the right avenues for assistance, don’t hesitate to contact my office. You may reach my office (State Senator Tim Barnes) , toll free, at 1-800-449-8366, ext. 12374.

The Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Clarksville and Montgomery County are holding a Flood Recovery Expo this week for all local residents and businesses affected by the floods.

The expo will be held Wednesday, May 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Austin Peay State University’s Red Barn at 256 Marion Street, and will be a “one-stop shop” for recovery information. Agencies involved in disaster recovery will be represented including city and county departments, relief and volunteer agencies, and service providers

For more information, contact Mark Hays at (931) 245-4339 or markh@clarksville.tn.us.

No missing persons reported in Stewart nor Houston County. Few roads are reported as closed or blocked.

As the whirling waters of the Cumberland River recede from its terrible highs of past weekend, emergency management efforts in Stewart County have shifted focus to rescue and evacuation efforts. The earlier sandbagging operation has produced a reserve supply of twelve pallets of sandbags for use on local roads. The receding waters however make their use seem less likely as time passes.

Bumpus Mill Road closed at the Pit Stop Mart. Photo by Turner McCullough Jr.

State Highway 49 past Bear Springs has reopened to traffic in both directions. Highway 149 is open to Erin and Clarksville. Highway 233 is still closed at the juncture just before the TVA Fossil Plant in Cumberland City. The TVA plant is still operational. Bumpus Mills Road is still closed just past the Pit Stop Mart off Highway 79.

In Cumberland City, the Water Plant is operating, providing clean, safe, fresh water. The waste water treatment plant is also working. There was no ‘Boil Water Order’ issued for the county. Bottled water distribution in the county has been suspended with the resumption of the water plant operations.

In a correction to reports of missing in Houston County, emergency management officials declare there are no missing persons reported, as yet, in either Houston nor Stewart County. The earlier report was a mis-communication about culverts around Houston County. Road damage in that county is plentiful as culverts and creek bridges have been washed away in many spots and sections of road are also weaken.

TVA's Fossil Plant at Cumberland City from the Cumberland River

In the more isolated areas of Stewart County, emergency assistance personnel are checking on trapped residents. They offer those residents transportation to the shelter upon evacuation from their homes. For those who choose to stay in their homes, the emergency personnel provide food and water to see them through for a few more days. In Stewart County, an emergency shelter has been opened at the local high school but as yet no residents have chosen to re-locate to the shelter. When people do leave their home, they are choosing to move in with other family in the community.

Highway 46 is closed off at the Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge entrance road. Two hundred tons of rip-rap is expected to be delivered at 6 a.m. Friday morning. As this reporter was leaving the emergency management center, a call for a family evacuation came in. The response team swung into action and radioed the boat rescue team that they had received another request.  The situation has not yet ended for the people of Stewart and Houston Counties just yet. Recovery is still an ongoing process here.

Young eaglets making their public debut at Fort Donelson National Park

This year’s brood of eagle hatchlings at Fort Donelson are making their public debut. The eaglets are now regularly perching at the top of the nest in full view of appreciative visitors and birdwatchers. The parenting pair have been seen feeding the youngsters in the morning but are not making repeated feeding runs during the day. The eaglets appear to be about eighteen inches or more in height and about fifteen to twenty pounds in weight.

According to Fort Donelson park rangers, the eaglets usually take flight around Memorial Day weekend and they think that pattern will be true this year as well. Eagle parenting means that while the adults are not sitting right at the nest, they are not far away from their young charges. The eagle observation point in Fort Donelson affords birdwatchers a great view of the nest and eagles activities.

Visitors are reminded that it is illegal to approach the actual nest. Binoculars and long-range photography at the observation point are approved. Visitors are also not permitted to feed the eagles or other wildlife in the park. More information on park regulations is available at the visitors center at the park entrance.