Serpas bids farewell to Nashville, giving praise to police department

Metro police veteran Steve Anderson takes over as interim chief By Brian Haas • THE TENNESSEAN • May 11, 2010 Ronal Serpas on Monday handed Nashville's police department over to a 35-year police veteran who has been at the agency since he was an officer in training. Deputy Chief Steve Anderson takes charge of the department while Nashville is still reeling from historic flooding. Serpas, who has been chief since January 2004, will move on to another city in need: his hometown of New Orleans. He left the department only four days after announcing he accepted a position as superintendent of police there. In his farewell address to police employees, Serpas praised the department's progress in building relationships with businesses and residents and said that crime-fighting initiatives — including his heavy reliance on crime statistics — have worked. "Through our years of fighting crime, make no mistake about it, many of our neighborhoods are safer today than they were six years ago," he wrote. Anderson joined the department as a rookie officer in 1975 and worked his way up over the past 35 years in nearly every capacity. As an administrator, he has overseen operations, criminal investigations and road patrol functions. Anderson said Monday his biggest job is to maintain the department as is and take care of the officers until a successor is chosen. He said residents should not be concerned about a leadership transition as Nashville recovers from disaster. Instead, they should expect, "the very same," he said. "We'll be in the same posture, same officers doing the very same thing," he said. Union endorses fill-in Sgt. Robert Weaver, president of the Nashville Fraternal Order of Police, said Anderson is a good choice for interim chief. "Especially in a time like this, there needs to be stability," Weaver said. "He is a good person in a position of stability." It's unclear how long it will take to find a permanent replacement for Serpas. Mayor Karl Dean has said the search for a chief is secondary to flood recovery and has set no timetable. Anderson said he is not applying to be chief permanently. He said he preferred police work to taking on more administrative duties. "I like what I do," Anderson said with a smile.

METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY

5/11/2010 Updates from Vivian. Also save the date of May 22 for our 7th Annual Great American Clean-up. More information to come! Stay tuned. MAYOR DEAN EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR DAVIDSON COUNTY NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Mayor Dean has signed another Executive Order to extend the current State of Emergency. State law limits a State of Emergency declaration to seven days but authorizes the Mayor to extend the order by seven day increments as needed. Due to last week’s unprecedented rain event that resulted in widespread flooding, emergency actions by government agencies are still necessary in order to safeguard the citizens of Davidson County. CURRENT DAMAGE ASSESSMENT Metro has identified over $1.56 billion in property damage throughout Davidson County and the assessments are still ongoing. Approximately 99 percent of the property assessments are complete and damage has been identified on nearly 96-hundred (9,651) parcels. Follow-up inspections to inaccessible parcels and self-reported areas have begun. The damage figures include only building damage and not personal property or infrastructure damage. It doesn’t include damage to areas such as greenway trails and facilities. The value of damaged public buildings and building contents is not included. GREENWAYS TEMPORARILY CLOSED For safety reasons, Metro Parks closed the Greenways system pending a safety assessment after last week's historic flooding. Some greenways sustained significant damage to bridges, boardwalks and barriers. Some sections of trail are impassable, and Metro Parks has deemed it in the best interest and safety of users to close the trails system until further notice. Damage assessments are underway and estimates should be completed in the next couple of days. In the meantime, individuals should refrain from using the Greenways until they are re-opened and please don't attempt to circumvent gates or other barriers. FLOOD-RELATED FATALITIES INCREASES TO TEN The body of a 53-year-old man, who was known to camp in a wooded gulch in the 1100 block of Elm Hill Pike, was recovered this morning. Friends reported they had not seen him in several days and began looking for him in the area. During heavy rains, the gulch regularly and quickly fills with flood waters. His name is being withheld pending notification of family. The other flood-related fatalities were previously identified as: Billy Rutledge, 70, Mary Rutledge, 65, Graybar Lane; Mary Jane McCormack, 86, of Sawyer Brown Road; Robert Woods, 74, W. Hamilton Avenue; Joshua Lanotroop, 21, of Valley Way; Andrew J. England, 78, and Martha England, 80, 908 Delray Drive; and Joseph Formosa, 88, and Bessie Formosa, 78, of Sawyer Brown Road.

SEARCH FOR MISSING PERSONS Two men remain missing. Danny Tomlinson, 39, was last seen Saturday, May 1, at 11:30 p.m. inside a car on Newsom Station Road that was overcome by flood waters. Daniel Brown, 18, was last seen on Sunday, May 2, at 6:30 p.m. when he and two other men tied floatation devices together to go tubing on Mill Creek. The makeshift raft struck a bridge and was dragged under water. The other two men made it ashore.

Recovery efforts will continue today following a week-long search for the two missing men from two of the areas that were affected by the floods. Representatives from the Nashville Fire Department, Metro Police, Urban Search and Rescue Team (USAR), and several volunteer groups have assisted in combing the areas by foot, boat and air since Sunday. Metro will continue to coordinate the responders in both locations. METRO WATER SERVICES UPDATE Metro Water Services customers can do essential loads of laundry and dishes but we ask that water not be used in excess. Laundry mats and nurseries have been allowed to resume water use for necessary operating purposes. The effect of this water use on our reservoirs will be assessed and a decision will be made regarding the continuation of water conservation efforts as we move forward. However, customers must remain vigilant about continued conservation. As a courtesy to those who need water for cleaning and watering plants while water is in short supply, non-potable water is being made available at West End Summit - 1600 West End. This water supply should be used for activities including nursery plant watering, sidewalk and street cleaning, and neighborhood cleanup. Those picking up water must provide their own tanks intended for transporting non-potable water and pumps. This non-potable source is not for filling milk jugs, pitchers, or other small containers. The site will be open Monday - Friday from 9 am. until 3 p.m. or until the supply is depleted. Entrance to the site will be allowed off of West End or 16th Avenue. Metro Water Services and the property owners assume no liability. Assessment and repair at the K.R. Harrington Water Treatment Plant continues. Draining of the 9 million gallon clear well began Sunday, after inspection by divers, in preparation of further inspection. Assessment and repair will be a lengthy process. The flood water destroyed the electrical systems within the plant as well as the computerized monitoring system, flooded pumps and motors and contaminated basins and storage wells at the facility. Power has been restored to the property and contractors will be hired to begin necessary electrical work within the facility this week. The pumps and motors have been removed and are in the process of being dried and assessed. DISASTER DEBRIS CLEAN-UP This morning, a combined fleet of nearly 80 trucks left LP Field to begin running multiple routes collecting discarded furniture, appliances and other disaster debris from flood-ravaged homes. At least one truck will be dispatched to each of Metro's 12 maintenance zones; however, today the majority of trucks will be returning to neighborhoods in Bellevue, Antioch, North Nashville and Pennington Bend/Music Valley Drive.

All three Metro Convenience Centers are open during regular business hours this week and accepting residential debris. Today through Sunday, May 16, Public Works is waiving usual fees at the Centers, and residents will be able to make up to three (3) visits per day for free.

Locations, operating hours and phone numbers for Convenience Centers are at www.nashville.gov/pw. The EOC Community Hotline -- 862-8574 -- can provide information about where businesses can dispose of commercial debris. ROADWAY AND TRAFFIC SIGNAL REPAIRS/ESTIMATES Numerous Public Works crews continue working to repair roads, bridges and traffic signals. Metro's trash and recycling collections have resumed and operating on schedule. Roadway crews are repairing streets damaged by flooding, sinkholes and mudslides, and getting them re-opened for traffic. As of Sunday, engineering crews had repaired over a dozen traffic signal cabinets that had been flooded, and technicians are continuing to monitor and repair traffic signals. Other Public Works employees are supervising and coordinating Metro Beautification volunteers, crews from the Davidson County Sheriff's Office, Drug Court and community service workers who are assisting with cleanup. METRO HEALTH OFFERS TETANUS SHOTS, MOLD INFORMATION The Metro Health Department continues to offer free tetanus shots at the Lentz Public Health Center, 311 23rd Ave. North, East Health Center, 1015 East Trinity Lane, and Woodbine Health Center, 224 Oriel Avenue, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday. 2,400 doses are expected to arrive Monday afternoon.

Nashville residents and volunteers cleaning up after the recent flooding should not be concerned about the risk of tetanus from floodwaters, and should not delay participating in the clean up efforts because of not having a tetanus shot. Exposure to flood waters does not increase a risk for tetanus infection according to officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Tennessee Department of Health. According to CDC, there has never been a diagnosed case of tetanus related to floods or flood cleanup in the United States.

Metro Health Department is taking calls and providing information to residents concerned about mold following last week’s flood. Informational flyers are available in English and Spanish on the Nashville.gov web page.

METRO CODES VISITS FLOOD-DAMAGED NEIGHBORHOODS Metro Codes officials are producing flyers today that detail the process homeowners must go through in order to apply for flood-damage repair permits. They will go door-to-door in flood-damaged neighborhoods handing out flyers and answering permit questions from residents. The information will also be posted on the Nashville.gov flood web page. In addition, Codes representatives will be stationed at the disaster information centers to assist citizens with the permitting process. To verify the status of any licensed contractor or any business licensed by the Board of Licensing Contractors, visit www.verify.tn.gov or www.liscrch.state.tn.us. METRO STUDENTS RETURN TO THE CLASSROOM MONDAY Classes at Metro Nashville Public Schools resumed today. Overall, the district is pleased that schools are open and operating smoothly with some accommodations given the unusual circumstances. Employee attendance is consistent with normal operations. Student attendance information is still being gathered, but at this point it appears to be good under the circumstances. Transportation ran smoothly this morning with 137 portions of some bus runs modified. In addition to MNPS school counselors, Vanderbilt and Centerstone are providing counselors to help support our students. DISASTER RECOVERY EFFORTS Disaster Information Centers Disaster Information Centers will be open this week from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Disaster Centers will remain open until FEMA centers are up and operational on the ground. Centers provide food, water, personal hygiene supplies and information about city services and FEMA registration. Metro Public Health and Social Service case workers are on site. The public can come to the Centers to pick up limited quantities of cleaning supplies to assist with home restoration efforts. Centers are not equipped for emergency medical needs. Residents who have security and health emergencies should call 9-1-1. Disaster Information Centers are in the following locations: • Bellevue Community Center, 656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221

• East Community Center, 700 Woodland Street, 37206

• Hermitage Community Center, 3720 James Kay Lane, 37076

• Hadley Community Center, 1037 28th Avenue North, 37208

• Coleman Community Center, 384 Thompson Lane 37211 The Disaster Information Centers served approximately 2,109 people affected by the flood last weekend:

East: 436 Hadley: 175 Hermitage: 299 Bellevue: 965 Coleman: 234

TOTAL= 2,109 FEMA Flood Relief Assistance FEMA inspectors are contacting Tennessee disaster applicants who sustained losses from the storms, tornadoes and flooding. It is important to emphasize that legitimate FEMA inspectors will not ask for personal information, such as a Social Security number, or request payment at the time of the inspection. They will also wear an official FEMA photo ID badge. Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties are urged to begin immediately applying for assistance by registering online at www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585. When applying please have the following information available:

• Current telephone number

• Address at time of disaster and address where you are currently staying

• Your social security number, if available

• A general list of damages and losses

• If insured, the name of your insurance company and your policy number

• Bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance by using direct deposit Individual assistance to homeowners and renters can include grants to pay for temporary housing, home repairs, and other serious disaster related expenses not met by insurance or other assistance programs. Also, low interest loans are available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance. FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Nashville for those affected by severe storms and flooding last week. The DRC is located at 100 Oaks Mall, 719 Thompson Lane, near the Hollywood 27 theater. The center is open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., seven days a week until further notice. Nearly 18,000 Tennesseans have registered with FEMA and more than $28 million has been approved in individual assistance monies. Red Cross Disaster Assistance Red Cross Assistance is available by calling toll-free 1-866- GET- INFO (1-866-438-4636). Two Red Cross shelters remain open: Lipscomb University with 132 residents and capacity for 200 and the Al Menah Shrine center with 45 residents and capacity for 300. Other assistance being provided by the Red Cross includes: • Fixed feeding sites at two shelters, Sawyer Brown Community Center, 1417 Murfreesboro Road, Riverwalk Community Pool at Riverwalk Road, as well as 13 mobile feeding routes. Residents in need should look for ARC Emergency Response Vehicles in their neighborhoods.

• “Clean up kits” are available at the five Disaster Information Centers in Davidson County. The kits contain the following items: bleach, buckets, storage containers, coolers, work gloves, hand sanitizer, hoses with nozzle, insect repellent, dust masks, rakes, rope, shovel, sun screen, duct tape, and trash bags.

• In Davidson County, to date the Red Cross has provided 20,190 meals, 21,244 snacks, 4474 clean up kits, 2609 comfort kits, 991 health services contacts and 776 mental health contacts to affected families and individuals. NASHVILLE ELECTRIC SERVICE OUTAGES AND REPAIRS NES currently have about 300 total outages countywide, largest pocket in the northeast/Hendersonville area. On the downtown network, all 4 primary circuits on the Demonbreun East Network are restored; about 2 dozen businesses remain disconnected because of internal damage they are repairing. Their power will be restored when they are ready for it. In addition, Municipal Auditorium is back to normal. Power was restored earlier today to the Country Estates, Sheffield on the Harpeth, Morton Mills and Hickory Estates subdivisions in Bellevue. We have replaced the necessary equipment and energized transformers to restore power to the River Plantation area in Bellevue by late this evening; some of these customers, however, may not be ready for power. The Stadium Substation is energized and power to LP Field was restored around noon today. Crews continue making significant progress at the McCrory Substation and the West Substation. MENTAL HEALTH ASSISTANCE Citizens seeking mental health assistance can contact the local "Crisis Line" at (615)244-7444. This hotline is free, manned by trained volunteers and is available 24/7.

The national "Talk Line" at 1-800-273-TALK is also available. This is a federally-funded hotline that routes the calls (by area code) to local mental health professionals. HANDS ON NASHVILLE VOLUNTEERS DONATE THOUSANDS OF HOURS Over nine-thousand Hands On Nashville volunteers spent nearly 40,000 hours participating in flood recovery efforts between May 2nd and Sunday, May 10th. The projected economic impact of Hands on Nashville volunteerism is $815,235. NASHVILLE SALVATION ARMY STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS ASSIST FLOOD VICTIMS Salvation Army personnel continue to partner with OEM Disaster Information Centers, providing relief to flood victims at the Bellevue Community Center, Coleman Community Center and Hadley Community Center. The Salvation Army is on hand at each location to provide food, water and spiritual support. From May 1- 7, the Salvation Army has served 7,210 hot and cold meals, provided 9,499 drinks (soda, coffee, juice, water) and 4,610 snacks (donuts, cakes, chips). In addition, The Salvation Army has provided the same services for those working at the Office of Emergency Management, as well as to emergency responders working out of the Metro Police Department’s Southeast Precinct. FLOOD EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHS Flood recovery effort high-resolution photographs are available for download at www.metrophotos.nashville.gov/eventphotos/images/flood-recovery-efforts.html.

Flood debris recycling - Metro convenience centers to allow free visits this week

Metro convenience centers to allow free visits this week for residents with flood debris Public Works is waiving the usual fees at its three Recycling Convenience Centers this week to help Davidson County residents dispose of flood debris. Through this Sunday, May 16, three visits a day will be allowed at no charge. East Center 943A Doctor Richard G. Adams Drive/Mon.-Sat. 7:30am-5:00pm and Sun. Noon-4:00pm Omohundro Center 1019 Omohundro Place (entrance on Freightliner Drive)/Tues.-Sat.: 8:00am-4:30pm Anderson Lane Center 939A Anderson Lane, Madison/Tues.-Sat.: 8:30am-5 pm No oversized loads or vehicles with commercial tags will be allowed. Carpet/carpet pads, and small amounts of construction and demolition waste will be permitted; all loose materials should be bagged. Household hazardous waste (such as paint, cleaners and solvents), as well as flood-damaged electronics, should be taken to the East Convenience Center. Details are in Public Works' media release.

COUNTYWIDE DISASTER DEBRIS PICK-UPS START TODAY

Metro residents advised to move parked vehicles so trucks have room to work NASHVILLE, Tenn. – This morning, a combined fleet of nearly 80 trucks began running multiple routes collecting discarded furniture, appliances and other disaster debris from flood-ravaged homes in Davidson County. Mayor Karl Dean joined Lynch and other Public Works officials today when trucks began leaving the staging area in Parking Lot “B” at LP Field. Two Alabama-based companies specializing in disaster recovery have been contracted by Metro to provide trucks, equipment and crews to work along with Metro’s Public Works fleet of 17 vehicles. The companies are Storm Reconstruction Services (SRS), Inc. and The DRC Group. “These firms bring the trucks, personnel and disaster recovery experience that our city needs right now to assist Public Works and all citizens of Nashville with cleaning up after the worst flood we’ve ever had,” Public Works Director Billy Lynch said. The department has been using all available trucks and equipment to collect debris in the areas hardest hit by last week's historic flood, but Lynch said officials knew early on outside help would be needed. “We began sending out Public Works trucks on Wednesday as soon as flood waters began to recede," Lynch said. "It quickly became evident that additional resources would be required.” The SRS and DRC crews will be picking up debris using a grid based on MPW’s 12 brush collection routes. Public Works has already identified the affected areas, and Lynch said drivers have been instructed to pick up "whatever debris residents have placed curbside.” Citizens are being asked to separate their items, so Public Works can sort them later for proper disposal. All items should be placed at the street for easier access by the trucks. Vehicles parked on the street need to be moved so debris trucks can reach the piles. According to Metro officials, both SRS and DRC have extensive experience in coordinating disaster recovery operations after hurricanes, tornadoes and floods. In addition, SRS Inc. provided Metro brush collection from 2006-2008. Complete listings of the companies' previous work for federal, state and local governments can be found on their websites: www.stormreconstruction.com www.drcusa.com The complete Residential Disaster Debris Collection guidelines are available on the Public Works website at www.nashville.gov/pw . While debris collection efforts take center stage this week, Lynch said numerous other Public Works crews continue working to repair roads, bridges and traffic signals. Metro's trash and recycling collections have resumed and operating on schedule. "Regular brush collections have been suspended so those drivers and vehicles can be used for the recovery efforts, but all other Public Works services are up and running," Lynch said. Roadway crews are repairing streets damaged by flooding, sinkholes and mudslides, and getting them re-opened for traffic. Engineering crews are monitoring and repairing traffic signals. Other Public Works employees are supervising and coordinating Metro Beautification volunteers, crews from the Davidson County Sheriff's Office, Drug Court and community service workers who are assisting with cleanup. Metro Recycle Convenience Centers All three Metro Convenience Centers are open at regular operating hours, and Public Works is allowing residents to make one extra free visit each day to dispose of trash and debris. (While disaster recovery efforts are underway, Davidson County residents can visit a Metro convenience center three times a day, instead of two.) Household hazardous waste (such as paint, cleaners and solvents), as well as flood-damaged electronics can be taken to the East Convenience Center, 943A Doctor Richard G. Adams Drive (off Trinity Lane). Metro’s other convenience centers are the Omohundro facility, 1019 Omohundro Place (entrance on Freightliner Drive), and in the Rivergate area at 939A Anderson Lane (off Myatt Drive). For more information on Metro’s Convenience Centers visit www.nashville.gov/Recycle/centers.asp . Metro Government/Public Works Call Center The 311/Public Works Customer Service Call Center is fully staffed and operating from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Anyone who has questions or needs assistance with a Metro Government issue can call the following numbers: o 3-1-1 for Metro Government directory assistance and general government information o 862-8750 to report potholes, traffic signal malfunctions, street signs, etc. o 880-1000 for trash, recycling and other Waste Management questions Please visit www.nashville.gov/pw/ for the latest information on the Nashville & Davidson County Disaster Relief Efforts.

District 29 Updates for Flood and Recovery Update

District 29 Updates on Historic Flood and Recovery. Please check out my blog for previous updates. God bless you and your family. 60 TRUCKS DISPATCHED TO FLOOD DAMAGED NEIGHBORHOODS Starting today, at 6 a.m., Mayor Karl Dean will join Public Works officials at LP Field when a fleet of at least 40 privately-contracted trucks will be dispatched with 20 Public Works vehicles to begin countywide disaster debris collections. Emergency contracts were finalized late Saturday allowing Public Works to proceed with hiring two Mobile, Ala. companies -- Storm Reconstruction Services, Inc., and The DRC Group -- that specialize in disaster recovery operations. METRO SCHOOLS OPEN Today, MONDAY Metro Schools will be open today. Monday, May 10. For displaced families, or those who need a new school assignment, please call the MNPS Customer Service Center at (615) 259-INFO (4636) for information, assistance with school enrollment, free and reduced meals, school clothing or transportation needs. The center was open from noon – 5 p.m. Sunday, May 9, and as early as 5:30 a.m. Monday. Parents are also encouraged to check www.mnps.org. METRO WATER SERVICES UPDATE The majority of the community has done a spectacular job conserving and we are beginning to see increases in the water reservoirs. The current reservoir levels are 78%, up from 65% this time yesterday. On Sunday, Metro Water Services customers can do essential loads of laundry and dishes but we ask that water not be used in excess. Irrigation, car washes and other non-residential domestic use is not permitted. The effect of this water use on our reservoirs will be assessed and a decision Monday will be made regarding the continuation of water conservation efforts as we move forward. However, customers must remain vigilant about continued conservation. The K.R. Harrington Water Treatment Plant continues to have around the clock staff and contractors working to restore operation. Electricity and internet connectivity has been restored. Divers will begin inspection of clear wells today and installation of the new instrumentation is expected to begin this weekend as well. The pumps and motors are still away being dried and repaired. There is still some assessment to be done and lots of repair work and disinfection to complete before it is operational and can be approved for production. MWS will continue working closely with TDEC during this process. Contracted Street sweepers are being diverted from normal routes to impacted Metro roadways needing cleanup. These street sweepers are being filled with non-potable water collected from flooded basements and parking garages. Bottled Water Distribution Centers Bottled water distribution continues today at the following locations from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Use of bottled water for drinking and cooking greatly assists with conservation of the city’s water supply. *THERE WILL BE AN ALLOWANCE OF 2 CASES PER VEHICLE. · Nashville Fairgrounds at 500 Wedgewood Avenue · Antioch Middle School at 5050 Blue Hole Road · Bellevue Middle School at 655 Colice Jeanne Road · Pearl Cohn High School at 904 26th Avenue North · Bailey Middle School 2000 Greenwood Avenue · Two Rivers Baptist Church at 2800 McGavock Pike FLOOD RELIEF VOLUNTEERS URGED TO CARPOOL An influx of volunteers, coupled with sightseers, has caused significant traffic congestion in some of the neighborhoods hardest hit by flood damage, particularly those in the Pennington Bend-Opryland and Sawyer Brown Road areas. The congestion is such that debris collection trucks are being impeded from their work. The Metropolitan Police Department strongly urges volunteers to carpool into storm affected areas, or park in nearby church/business parking lots and walk into neighborhoods. Officers will be working to minimize congestion/gridlock on residential streets impacted by flooding. Hands On Nashville is coordinating volunteer efforts. Citizens can register to volunteer at www.HON.org. Once registered, volunteers will be contacted with information regarding which of the six reception centers they should report to. DISASTER RECOVERY EFFORTS General Information Community Hotline 862-8574 Metro Channel 3 (Cable Channel 3) 211 FEMA Legal Help/Fraud Prevention Hotline 1-888-395-9297 Disaster Information Centers Disaster Information Centers will be open this week from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Disaster Centers will remain open until FEMA centers are up and operational on the ground. Centers provide food, water, personal hygiene supplies and information about city services and FEMA registration. Metro Public Health and Social Service case workers are on site. The public can come to the Centers to pick up limited quantities of cleaning supplies to assist with home restoration efforts. This weekend, Centers will serve as staging areas for volunteer neighborhood clean up sweeps. Centers are not equipped for emergency medical needs. Residents who have security and health emergencies should call 9-1-1. Disaster Information Centers are in the following locations: Bellevue Community Center, 656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221 East Community Center, 700 Woodland Street, 37206 Hermitage Community Center, 3720 James Kay Lane, 37076 Hadley Community Center, 1037 28th Avenue North, 37208 Coleman Community Center, 384 Thompson Lane 37211 Questions about Disaster Info Centers should be directed to Laurel Creech, Metro’s Chief Service Officer, via email at laurel.creech@nashville.gov. FEMA Flood Relief Assistance FEMA inspectors are contacting Tennessee disaster applicants who sustained losses from the storms, tornadoes and flooding. It is important to emphasize that legitimate FEMA inspectors will not ask for personal information, such as a Social Security number, or request payment at the time of the inspection. They will also wear an official FEMA photo ID badge. Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties are urged to begin immediately applying for assistance by registering online at www.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585. When applying please have the following information available: Current telephone number Address at time of disaster and address where you are currently staying Your social security number, if available A general list of damages and losses If insured, the name of your insurance company and your policy number Bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance by using direct deposit Individual assistance to homeowners and renters can include grants to pay for temporary housing, home repairs, and other serious disaster related expenses not met by insurance or other assistance programs. Also, low interest loans are available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance. Customers can call MTA at (615) 862-5950. AccessRide customers may call 880-3970, while RTA customers should call 862-8833. Customers should also review the nashvillemta.org Web site for updates. A list of the bus routes and their modifications will be posted on the Web. Red Cross Disaster Assistance Red Cross Assistance is available by calling toll-free 1-866- GET- INFO (1-866-438-4636). Two Red Cross shelters remain open: Lipscomb University with 116 residents and capacity for 200 and the Al Menah Shrine center with 54 residents and capacity for 300. The Gordon Jewish Community Center shelter closed Saturday and the remaining 12 guests are being housed at Bellevue Church of Christ. Other assistance being provided by the Red Cross includes: · Fixed feeding sites at all shelters, as well as eight mobile feeding routes. Residents in need should look for ARC Emergency Response Vehicles in their neighborhoods. · “Clean up kits” are available at the five Disaster Information Centers in Davidson County. The kits contain the following items: bleach, buckets, storage containers, coolers, work gloves, hand sanitizer, hoses with nozzle, insect repellent, dust masks, rakes, rope, shovel, sun screen, duct tape, and trash bags. · In Davidson County, to date the Red Cross has provided 15,852 meals, 14,937 snacks, 3669 clean up kits, 2332 comfort kits, 700 health services contacts and 673 mental health contacts to affected families and individuals. WATER RECOVERY TEAMS CONTINUE TO SEARCH FOR MISSING PERSONS Two water recovery teams continue to search for individuals that were reported missing last week. The locations are Mill Creek and the Harpeth River in Newsom Station. Disaster Debris Collection UPDATE AND GUIDELINES Debris collection services continued Saturday in Bellevue's Boone Trace, Beech Bend and Harpeth Bend areas; West Hamilton, Morrow Road, Del Ray Drive communities in North Nashville; and Antioch neighborhoods along Wimpole Drive, Currey Road and Antioch Pike. Added were Pennington Bend communities along Steamboat Drive and Cain Harbor; East Nashville neighborhoods along Shadow Lane, McGinnis Drive, Welcome Lane and Moss Rose Drive; and the Waterford Subdivision in Old Hickory. Besides hauling off debris for disposal, Metro Public Works employees, Davidson County Sheriff's Office Corrections Center crews and General Sessions Court Community Service workers are assisting neighborhood residents with separating debris and pulling it to the curb so trucks can collect it. Residents are being asked to separate items into four piles: appliances and metals; construction and demolition; household trash and garbage; brush and other waste. All piles should be placed at the street. DO NOT put debris under TVA power lines or stack on/near NES equipment boxes. TVs, computers and other e-waste should be taken to any Metro Recycle Convenience Center. A comprehensive plan and schedule for Metro’s countywide disaster debris collection will be available Monday. Public Works roadway crews continue repairing roads, culverts and traffic signals countywide. Nashville Electric Service UPDATE NES Line crews continue to work on scattered outages replacing equipment as necessary. By yesterday, Sunday afternoon, the downtown network should be back to normal operation. The Pinnacle remains off and other downtown businesses will be connected as NES receives Codes Releases. NES underground field crews are requesting that debris NOT be placed on or near pad mount transformers. There have been instances of debris dropped near the Bellevue/River Plantation transformer site. This greatly hinders the speed of restoring power to this area. If water got into the outlets, plugs, switches, panel box or meter base of any home or business, the owner MUST hire a licensed electrician to make the repairs, and have Codes inspect before NES can restore power. This particular safety issue CANNOT be waived. NES will be waiving the following fees to FLOOD VICTIMS: · $45 turn-on fee, same day service · $30 turn on fee for future day service · $225 temporary service fee · $15 transfer fee (for customers who have to move to a new residence due flooding) NES may expand its relief efforts for FLOOD VICTIMS ONLY and will have more information later. Davidson County Sheriff’s Department ASSISTS WITH CLEAN UP EFFORTS The Sheriff’s Department’s Correctional Services Center currently has 80 inmate workers with 20 staff members and 20 trucks clearing debris from severely affected areas. They’re also picking up and delivering goods, food boxes and water from Second Harvest to the Disaster Information Centers and the Food Box sites. In the past week, Sheriff’s Dept. officials have: - removed 252 tons of debris - used approx. 700 inmate workers - filled 34,200 sandbags w/ 500 tons of sand & hauled it to the three emergency locations. - hauled approx. 2,000 food boxes to the disaster sites for distribution - delivered 150 food boxes and 150 cases of water to neighborhoods to the stranded The Transportation Division has been moving people from their homes to shelters as the calls come in. Approximately 53 persons and 12 animals have been transported from their homes to various shelters. Update on tetanus shots can be found at www.health.nashville.gov. Damage Assessments CONTINUE Metro Codes Department was open for business Sunday from 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Inspectors from all divisions are on duty and damage assessment continues across the city. Courts to Resume on Monday, May 10 All courts will be operational on Monday, including General Sessions courts (jail and bond dockets), criminal trial courts (all divisions), traffic court, environmental court (metro court - held on Wednesdays), grand jury, and juvenile court. Additionally, booking for state misdemeanor citations will be operational. The Birch Building will be fully operational. If your case is scheduled for that location, it will be held there next week. Juvenile cases will be held at various locations. All juvenile detention hearings will be held at the CJC in the old jail docket courtroom in the CJC building (Room 131 - second floor, above night court). The hearings will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and officers will need to be there at 2 p.m. All other juvenile cases will be held in various locations on a temporary basis as described below: Judge Green - Historic Courthouse 510 Magistrate Calhoun - Historic Courthouse 607 Magistrate Crawford - Historic Courthouse 611 Magistrate Lewis - Historic Courthouse 605 Magistrate O’Neil - Criminal Justice Center Felony Jail Courtroom 131 Magistrate Rosenberg - East MPD Precinct Trinity Lane Magistrate Griffin - East MPD Precinct Trinity Lane Magistrate Calloway - East MPD Precinct Trinity Lane METRO WEBSITE FOR REPORTING FLOOD DAMAGE Davidson County residents can now report their flood damage to a special website link to help Metro Government assemble the most complete and accurate data about the effects of last week's flooding. Report your flood damage at www.maps.nashville.gov/damage/ . There is also a “Report Flood Damage” link in the left hand column of the Nashville.gov/flood website. The Nashville.gov flood damage site is NOT connected to relief efforts or emergency services – it will be for reporting property damage only. If you need disaster assistance, register with FEMA at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA. ###

16,000 Tennesseans Already Registered For Disaster Help

Channel 5 Posted: May 08, 2010 1:26 PM CDT NASHVILLE, Tenn. – As of 6 a.m. Saturday, over 16,000 Tennessee residents have applied for disaster assistance from FEMA. With 650 inspections already complete, over $4.1 million has been approved for assistance to individuals. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano made the announcement at a news conference Saturday morning at Belmont University in Nashville. "This has been quite a large disaster in Tennessee, so it was important to see with my own eyes what the impacts were, but also to see the recovery efforts," said Napolitano. She said Federal Emergency Management Director (FEMA) Craig Fegate has been all over the state assessing needs, and relaying the information back to Homeland Security. She also praised the efforts of Tennessee residents and local officials. "I think Tennesseans can be assured that everybody is really focused on this and really paying attention," she said. Napolitano stressed the need for a continued effort. "We've been traveling around today and talking with the Governor and the Mayor about other things that need to be done in the coming days and weeks," said Napolitano She said officials would need to think through all the recovery efforts that need to be made, like housing and getting businesses set back up. "This is a big flood and it affected a lot of areas across Tennessee. Some parts are dry and open for business and people should know that – but other parts are going to need long term help," said Napolitano. Secretary Napolitano stressed the importance for victims to register for assistance. Victims who need disaster recovery help should call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA or log onto www.fema.gov. Those with mobile Internet access can go to m.fema.gov. Officials have been looking at the immediate needs of victims like housing. Napolitano cautioned that there are limits to the help FEMA can offer. "There will be individuals who suffer financial damages, no doubt. We will help in every way we possibly can," she said. FEMA workers and officials expect to be in Tennessee for around six months helping with the recovery efforts. Other organizations will join in the help and eventually take over for FEMA. Napolitano said President Barack Obama has been receiving regular updates about the progress being made in the state. She said other cabinet members will also be visiting the state to see how their groups can help. Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, Senator Lamar Alexander, Congressman Jim Cooper, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, FEMA Director Craig Fegate and State Senator Doug Henry were also at Saturday's news conference. Governor Bredesen said he has been in constant contact with Washington. "Through the entire process I've had a chance to talk several times to Secretary Napolitano and she has been very helpful. She wanted to come down today to see things first hand," said Bredesen.

New Metro website for reporting flood damage

Report your flood damage at www.nashville.gov/flood/ - this will help Metro Government assemble the most complete and accurate data about the effects of this week's flooding. At midday, damage had already exceeded $1.5 billion, not counting government buildings or building contents, and with initial assessment still incomplete.

Tennessee Walk Now for Autism Speaks

TENNESSEE KICKOFF EVENT RESCHEDULED

Tennessee Walk Now for Autism Speaks TENNESSEE KICKOFF EVENT RESCHEDULED Due to the devastating floods in Nashville, the 2010 TENNESSEE KICKOFF EVENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS SATURDAY AS BEEN RESCHEDULED. The families in our community are our priority and we ask that your time and talent be dedicated to helping them at this difficult time.

AUTISMCARES If you are aware of a family in our autism community that has been affected by the floods and are in need of support, please have them call 615-238-1625 for immediate assistance from AutismCares. 2010 TENNESSEE KICKOFF EVENT - NEW DATE: When: Saturday, August 7, 2010 Time:10:00 am – 12:00 pm Where:Embassy Suites Nashville South – Cool Springs 820 Crescent Centre Drive Franklin, TN 37067

Childcare will be provided. CLICK HERE to RSVP for the NEW KICKOFF DATE TEAM CAPTAIN PACKETS & WALK INFORMATION Please email tennessee@autismspeaks.org if you would like a Team Captain Packet, Walk Brochures, Walk Posters or Puzzle Piece pin-ups mailed to you. Autism Speaks is Listening!!! Autism Speaks - Tennessee 7900-D Stevens Mill Road - #182 Matthews, NC 28104 615-238-1625 tennessee@autismspeaks.org AutismCares Helping Families Affected By Tennessee Floods Nashville, Tennessee has just experienced the worst flooding in the city’s history. Many families have lost everything, including their homes, cars and clothes. Water rescues continue and many households are without power. Households which have a family member who has autism are particularly affected. IF YOU ARE IN TENNESSEE AND NEED ASSISTANCE Please contact: Kathy L. Streng Director, Regionally Supported Walks, Southeast 615-238-1625 Kathy.streng@autismspeaks.org AutismCares helps families affected by autism to cover costs associated with critical living expenses such as: housing, utilities, car repair, daycare, funeral expenses, and other essential items on a case-by-case basis. The program relies on donations to assist these families who are in need. Please make a donation today to help families that have members with autism who are struggling in Tennessee.

COMMON SCAMS COMMITTED DURING NATURAL DISASTERS

EVEN BEFORE THE FLOOD WATERS SUBSIDE, ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS TO FLOAT ASHORE ARE SCAM ARTIST PRETENDING TO OFFER HELP

A. CONTRACTOR FRAUD 1. Beware of people coming to your home soliciting to do repairs. 2. Use local licensed contractors, ask for references and ask for a written estimate (get at least three). 3. Make sure the contractor carries liability insurance, workers comp and is bonded. 4. Get a written contract, and read the small print. 5. Pay by check, avoid payment in cash. 6. Never give the full payment, up front, for any contracted services. B. POST DISASTER DONATIONS 1. Research fully the charitable organization 2. Call the charity directly and confirm the person asking for funds is an employee or volunteer. 3. DO NOT GIVE CASH. Write a check in the name of the charity, and get a receipt, never make the check out to a private individual. C. STATE AND/OR FEDERAL AID 1. DO NOT REVEAL PERSONAL INFORMATION if you are unsure of person or organization. * FEMA Contracted Inspectors call to schedule an appointment before visiting a home. They will wear a photo id and have the applicant's registration number and name. They will never ask for any type of payment. 2. You should never have to pay a fee for FEMA assistance. Federal workers do not solicit or except money. 3. FEMA inspectors only verify damage. FEMA inspectors do not hire or endorse specific contractors to do repairs. D. Phone solicitors 1. Stay alert for phone solicitors who promise to speed up insurance, assistance or building permit process, or ask for large cash deposits or advance payments in full. ****HELPFUL HINTS**** 1. Do not give out bank account, credit card, social security numbers or any other personal information over the phone if you are not applying for FEMA assistance, or do not know who you are speaking with. FEMA will get this information during the initial application process and will provide you with application number. 2. Disaster assistance can be applied for two ways. *Calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or * on-line at www.fema.gov or www.DisasterAssistance.gov. 3. If in doubt about a local contractor make sure to check with local permit officials, builders associations and the BBB. 4. Be cautious of e-mails sent on-line that may state they can assist you with claims. REMEMBER: IF SOMEONE OFFERS A DEAL THAT JUST SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBALY IS.

Hi District 29 residents and Davidson County:

I have been helping all over Davidson County. If you are assisting with clean-up, please use your mask where possible and make sure you get your tentanus shot. Boy, do I hate needles (smile!) but I got the shot anyway. Below is some info some I provided earlier today but have decided to include in this update info as well. Take care of you, your family and your friends (both known and unknown). Gratefully, Vivian Tide Loads for Hope trucks are coming to Nashville on Wednesday, May 12. The Tide staff will literally wash, dry,and fold clothes for people who need it. Contact Tide at 800-879-8433 (press 0 for operator).

Recovery Continues, From Katrina to Historic Nashville Flooding, Three Families That Needs Your Help

Teacher Norma Fleming-Super requests assistance to three families whose children are in great need. One family lost everything in Katrina and now has lost everything again.

If you, or anyone you know, can contribute anything on the lists below, they can drop off donations tomorrow from 8am-12pm at: Medvance Institute, 3354 Perimeter Hill Drive. Nashville, TN 37211 - right across the street from DeVry University, just off the I-24 Harding Road exit on the airport side. Turn right at McDonalds and left 1/2 block. Norma Fleming-Super, 713-7145, will be in the upper parking lot with volunteers to assist. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Family #1: Stacey Fedele and family 504-201-4723 South Brook Apartments, Nashville, TN(South Nashville off I-24/Harding Area) She, husband and 3 children lost everything in Katrina and have lost everything in this flood as they were on a first floor level. They are in another apartment within the same complex but have absolutely nothing. I took some clothes to her today. They could use any type of household items, furniture etc. They were able to salvage nothing and they are sleeping in sleeping bags on the floor. They are okay for food 9 year old boy Size 8 shirt and 6 pants - Size 2 Boys Shoes 6 year old girl SIze 6 shirt and pants - Size 11.5-12 Shoes 13 year old girl and mom 11-12 or 13/14 pants with XL tops size 7 -7.5 shoes Dad 36-30 pants and 2X Shirts 10-11 Shoes They have no clothes other than what I have taken today and the kids have no shoes!! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Family #2: Jasmine Bouck 22 year old mom with 6 month old baby girl and 3 year old son - so she needs diapers terribly She has lost everything as well but we are working with her and I have gotten her son a bed. She is in need of a bed for herself. Staying with family friend. at 308 Oak Timber Court They were also on the ground floor of the South Brook Apartments 3-6 Month old Girl clothes 4 T Boy Clothes Size 2 Diapers Mom is Size 13 Pants/Shorts and 5.5 shoes...also has no shoes ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Family #3 is in Ashland City and they have lost everything.

Angela White 615 364 2189 They have an 18 year old 8.5 month pregnant with a girl daughter - size 10.5 shoes - size 16 bottom and large tops Mom - 8 shoe - Size 16 bottom - XL Shirts 16 Son 11.5 shoes Shirts 3X - Shorts 2X 11 Son - Size 12 Shirt and Pants - Size 6 boy shoes Husband and 15 year old - 34-30 - Large Shirts SIze 12 shoes They are still in a shelter and have lost house, car and all belongings - FEMA cannot get to their house to inspect yet! Ashland City - Our Fathers House Ministries Shelter -- No cooking facilities They need FOOD!! Things they can prepare without a stove and keep in a cooler (yes, they need the cooler) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Updates from Mayor Dean’s 5/7/10 briefing and other postings

Where to Report Flooding Damage - Report your flood damage at http://www.nashville.gov/flood/ - this will help Metro Government assemble the most complete and accurate data about the effects of this week's flooding. Tomorrow’s School Closing Correction - There was a text message sent out Friday morning by NewsChannel5 incorrectly stating that Metro Schools will be closed on Monday. We have learned that the message was sent as the result of a technical error. There has been no decision yet about whether or not to open schools on Monday. The decision will come Saturday afternoon. You can check www.MNPS.org or your school's website at that time to see the decision. Thank you for understanding. MNPS will make a decision Saturday afternoon about opening schools on Monday. They will have information on all bus routes and are working on maps to explain the status of each route. When finished, they will be posted on MNPS.org, on Children First! and in their "Flood Information and Help for MNPS Families" page. Or come back to http://www.vivian-29.blogspot.com/ current info. MTA Bus Schedule - MTA will be running Saturday schedules on Monday. For full details on MTA routes and schedules, visit their website. Where to find housing or offer housing. The massive flooding in Middle Tennessee will displace many households for weeks and months to come. A database of rental housing is ready for landlords to add properties and for searchers to identify available properties. Nashville’s housing leaders urge property owners to post properties right away. The database is www.TNHousingSearch.org. It is free for landlords to post property and free for renters to search. The database allows for a high level of detail including photographs, location, access to public transportation, bedroom and bathroom count, square footage, rent amount and amenities listing such as fencing, cable, appliances, accessibility, deposit requirements and pet allowances. The site allows for comparison of several properties at a time. TNHousingSearch.com is open to properties of all rental levels and types. It is not relegated to subsidized properties. Duplexes, multi-family units, manufactured homes and single family homes are all appropriate to list. Landlords can easily post properties with Social Serve, the site manager, by communicating by on-line at the site, through phone (1-877-428-8844), e-mail, or fax (1-866-265-7811). Landlords will receive a user name and password to control listing information. Once a property is leased, the landlord “hides” the property from view while it is maintained in the database for easy retrieval. Renters can search for properties by city or county name and display several properties on a map at once to determine the best location for them. http://www.tnhousingsearch.org/ is an important part of Tennessee’s disaster housing intervention plan and is already being used by caseworkers and agencies across affected areas to relocate those in need of housing. “Making sure that our residents can stabilize quickly will help minimize the trauma that flooding is causing in our region,” said Tennessee Housing Development Agency Executive Director Ted R. Fellman. “It is critical that as many housing options as possible are available to victims. We urge landlords to list on this free, centralized service right away.” Registration with www.TNHousingSearch.org can be a temporary activity for property owners who are not “in the rental business”. “We need all vacant properties to be made available for our displaced neighbors,” said Phil Ryan, executive director of the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency. “This is an opportunity to put a vacant property to use for a family in need.” Among the housing and service providers joining THDA and MDHA in the effort to secure temporary housing are the Greater Nashville Housing Association, Catholic Charities, The Housing Fund, Urban Housing Solutions and Woodbine Community Organization. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- METRO TO HOST E-WASTE COLLECTION TOMORROW, 5/8/10, NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Metro Public Works and Creative Recycling Inc. will sponsor an E-Waste Collection Event from 8 a.m. until noon tomorrow at the Wal-Mart Supercenter located at Nolensville Pike & Old Hickory Boulevard. Residents can bring flood-damaged computers, TV's and other electronics for disposal. Metro Beautification and Environment is planning other e-waste collection events, and will announce them when locations and dates are final. Residents can also bring their damaged or unwanted electronics to one of Metro's three Recycle Convenience Centers all of which are open on

Saturdays. In addition, the East Convenience Center off Trinity Lane is open on Sundays. East Center 943A Doctor Richard G. Adams Drive Nashville, TN 37207 862-8631 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 7:30am-5:00pm and Sun. Noon-4:00pm

Omohundro Center 1019 Omohundro Place (entrance on Freightliner Drive) Nashville, TN 37210 880-1955 Hours: Tue.-Sat.: 8:00am-4:30pm

Anderson Lane Center 939A Anderson Lane Madison, TN 37115 860-2588 Hours: Tues.-Sat.: 8:30am-5 pm

For more information, contact Public Works Customer Service at 862-8750, or visit www.nashville.gov/recycle .

Mayor Proposes Metro Codes Fee Waiver Legislation will be filed tomorrow with the Metro Council which will allow the Metro Codes Department to relieve home owners and small business owners from the costs of construction related to damage to homes and businesses caused by the flood. The legislation would provide credits for the rehabilitation and repair of buildings damaged by the flood. The following credits will be available. $75 Plumbing Permit $100 Electric Permit $100 Gas/ Mechanical Permit $375 Building Permit Construction The legislation will not be voted on for 2 weeks, but once passed will be effective starting May 2, the same date which Mayor Dean declared Nashville a disaster area. Citizens will be able to apply for assistance through July 31. Fraud Advisory. The Metro Police Department's Fraud Unit urges citizens to be extremely cautious when dealing with telephone and email solicitations for money in the name of disaster relief. One Nashville woman who used her debit card to donate over the Internet to what she thought was a legitimate charity has reported a number of unauthorized withdrawals from her checking account arising out of the United Kingdom. The Police Department urges citizens to deal with charities at their offices or over secure Internet sites. Citizens are also encouraged to donate with credit not debit cards.

Metro Water. Water asks that residents please continue to protect our water reserves by cutting your daily water use in half. Reservoir levels are currently holding steady at only 51% even though Metro Water Services produced only 3 million gallons less yesterday than on May 5, 2009. As a courtesy to those who need water for cleaning and watering plants while drinking water is in short supply, Metro Water Services has arranged several sources of large quantity non-potable water available on May 7 for activities including nursery plant watering, sidewalk and street cleaning, and neighborhood cleanup. This water is being pumped from flooded basements at two large downtown facilities. The intention is to fill large trucks or vehicles with tanks intended for transporting non-potable water. People needing water must provide their own trucks with tanks or vehicles intended for transporting water. This operation cannot support filling milk jugs, pitchers, or other small containers. Tanks can only be filled from the top. Pumps will be running continuously, and contractors will provide assistance in filling the tanks/trucks. Metro Water Services, the property owners, and the contractors operating the pumps assume no liability.

Noon to 5 p.m. The Pinnacle at Symphony Place Filling Location: 1st and Demonbreun Directions: Gateway Bridge to 1st Ave, right two blocks to Demonbreun 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nashville Symphony Filling Location: 4th and Demonbreun Directions: Gateway Bridge to Almond St, left on Demonbreun

Flood water being pumped out of homes and/or businesses should be done in a manner that will not negatively impact neighbors. Before pumping, assess the area and attempt to pump water into the stormwater system such as a ditch or stormdrain. If water can not be pumped into the storm system, direct it toward a grassy area away from downhill structures. Repairs are proceeding well at the K.R. Harrington Water Treatment Plant. There is still a significant amount of inspection, repair, and testing to accomplish before the plant can be placed back in service and operations evaluated. Metro Water Services is coordinating closely with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) during this process. Donations. Flood relief donations are still in need throughout the Metro Nashville area. Items in bulk, pallets, or packed large quantities are preferred and are a priority. Various bulk items needed include: Bulk Non-perishable foods – canned meats, canned vegetables/fruits, box cereal/pasta, baby food/formula, peanut butter, and boxed meals. Bulk Supplies, Accessories and Tools – Shop Vacs (wet/dry vacuums), baby diapers, wipes, cleaning supplies, rubber gloves/boots, brooms, mops, fans/dehumidifiers and generators. Cash and Monetary gifts – can be done on the web with the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee at www.cfmt.org or via phone at 888-540-5200. All bulk and large quantity donations including money can be processed through the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Companies and corporations are encouraged to lead the way with bulk donations, but citizens that can also donate these items may also do so. Citizens donating non-bulk or small quantities of the needed items should contact the Community Resource Center (CRC) at 911 Division St. Nashville, TN 37203. The email contact for this location is betsycrc@comcast.net

Nashville Electric Service. System wide, approximately 3,000 customers are without power. 1,500 of those customers are in the Bellevue area. Power should now be restored to all who can accept power. If you are not restored, call 615-234-0000. If water got into the outlets, plugs, switches, panel box or meter base of any home or business, the owner MUST hire a licensed electrician to make the repairs, and have Codes inspect and issue a release before NES can restore power. This particular safety issue CANNOT be waived. NES will be waiving the following fees to FLOOD VICTIMS as follows: $45 turn-on fee, same day service $30 turn on fee for future day service $225 temporary service fee $15 transfer fee (for customers who have to move to a new residence due flooding) NES may expand its relief efforts for FLOOD VICTIMS ONLY and will have more information later Piedmont Natural Gas Safety Bulletin. What Tennessee Customers Affected by the Flood Need to Know:

If water has entered your home or come in contact with natural gas appliances: Call Piedmont Natural Gas at 800-752-7504 so we can inspect your meter and your natural gas appliances for possible flood damage. Do not attempt to disconnect your gas service or work on or around your gas meter. Do not attempt to relight any of your gas appliances. Do not attempt to clear flood debris from your gas meter or from any other gas appliance, including your water heater. If your gas appliances have been damaged or submerged by flood waters: Do not attempt to make repairs yourself or use unauthorized, unlicensed individuals to work on your natural gas appliances. It is imperative that residents choose a licensed contractor who follows all safety and manufacturer guidelines. Unauthorized repairs can be unsafe and may void your warranty. Call your appliance manufacturer if you are unsure about work being performed. Some gas appliances damaged by water may need to be replaced. You can choose to work with Piedmont Natural Gas or other local approved Gas Advantage Dealers to repair or replace damaged appliances. Customers can view technical information on water heaters on Piedmont’s website at www.piedmontng.com. If your home was not damaged by flooding, but your natural gas service was interrupted, call Piedmont Natural Gas to schedule an appointment. Disaster Information Centers These Centers will remain open through the weekend. Hours Friday/Saturday will be Hours 10-6; Sunday 12-6. Centers will provide: food, water, personal hygiene supplies and information about city services and FEMA registration. Metro Public Health and Social Service case workers will be on site to assist with health and human needs. Legal Aid/TN Bar legal assistance clinics will operate at each site. Saturday and Sunday members of the public can come to the Centers to pick up limited quantities of cleaning supplies to assist with home efforts. This weekend, Centers will serve as staging areas for volunteer neighborhood clean up sweeps. Centers are not equipped for emergency medical needs. Security and health emergencies should be managed through 911. Bellevue Community Center 656 Colice Jeanne Rd. 37221 East Community Center 700 Woodland Street, 37206 Hermitage Community Center 3720 James Kay Lane, 37076 Hadley Community Center 1037 28th Avenue North, 37208 Coleman Community Center 384 Thompson Lane 37211 Questions about Disaster Info Centers should be directed to Laurel Creech, Chief Service Officer laurel.creech@nashville.gov

Metropolitan Action Commission Provided Meals for Children Yesterday, 5/6/10, the Metropolitan Action Commission, working through the Flood Resource Center in St. Paul AME Church at 3340 West Hamilton Road, began to distribute box meals for children normally are served by the federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program. Volunteers went door to door in the North Nashville area providing these meals to the children. Distribution will continue through today, 5/7/10, again beginning at 3 p.m. Because school is closed there is a concern that children that normally receive meals through this program at their local school may have difficulty receiving regular meals during this time in the North Nashville area. Emergency Waiver of HOV Lane Restrictions. HOV lane restrictions on Davidson County Interstates are now temporarily waived until further notice. This action will enable emergency personnel, work crews and the public, to utilize all available lanes to move traffic more smoothly and safely, as the recovery phase of the catastrophic flooding gets underway Urban Search & Rescue Teams Continue to Visit Homes in Devastated Neighborhoods. The search is now complete of 400 additional homes for a total of 1,200 in the past 2 days. In addition, teams in swift water boats searched the Cumberland River from Newsom Mills to the Cheatham County line using search dogs. Foot searches have begun in the Mill Creek area are foot searches, also using search dogs, moving from Murfreesboro Road to the Cumberland River. Police Officers Remaining Vigilant in Flood Impacted Neighborhoods. Metro police officers continue to provide enhanced security to flood damaged neighborhoods. Persons observed removing belongings may be approached by officers to ensure that the property being removed belongs to them. Residents who see an influx of strangers in their neighborhoods or who have safety/security concerns are urged to contact police at 862-8600. Please thank our police officers as you see them. They have done a tremendous job. Metro Government Offices and Courts. Metro Government Offices and Courts opened for business 5/6/10, with a few exceptions. The Juvenile Court and Juvenile Court Clerk offices experienced extensive water damage and flooding. These services will relocate and the relocation plan will be released to the public when available. The County Clerk’s and Metro Social Services’ offices located in Metro Center are closed until the access restriction is lifted. All other County Clerk’s Offices are open for business. Farmer’s Market continues to be closed due to flooding. Municipal Auditorium will not be opened until next week.

Great News!

Tide Loads for Hope trucks are coming to Nashville on Wednesday, May 12.

The Tide staff will literally wash, dry,and fold clothes for people who need it.

Contact Tide at 800-879-8433 (press 0 for operator).

Please Share with others!

www.tide.com/en-US/loads-of-hope/about.jspx

Antioch firm hosts job fair for post-flood workers Thursday

Advantage Staffing in Antioch is hosting a Job Fair 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Thursday, May 6, looking for workers to help with flood clean-up and general construction. They estimating that 250-300 workers are needed. The office is at 2411 Edge O’ Lake Drive in Antioch For more information, call 615-360-5660

Tenn. court system publishes database on judges

Posted 5/5/2010 4:04 AM ET NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Tennessee court system has published a database of trial judge statistics on its website. It's the first time the court system has published statistical information by individual judges. Previously, the courts have shared filing and disposition data by judicial district. The database shows the number of cases disposed or appealed by individual judge or by Judicial District during the 2008-09 fiscal year. Administrative Office of the Courts director Elizabeth Sykes said the information is designed to inform the public about the work done in the state judiciary. The database is at www.tncourts.gov/JudgeStats. Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Water shortage likely without conservation

Residents asked to cut usage 50% during recovery By Jaime Sarrio • THE TENNESSEAN • May 5, 2010 Nashville's fresh water reserves shrunk Tuesday, despite warnings urging residents to use less or face a shortage. Water treatment plants in Davidson and Williamson counties are operating at half capacity after record floods crippled the area, knocking out power and choking the infrastructure. City officials are pleading with residents to cut back until the facilities are at 100 percent. "People are using water faster than we're making it," said Scott Potter, director of Metro Water Services. "We need folks to stop using so much water." The city is making 81 million gallons of fresh water a day, and buying five million from the West Wilson Utility district. But Nashville residents typically use about 100 million gallons a day, and Potter suspects anxious residents are hoarding water by filling up bathtubs and buckets. As a result, the city's reserve supply, which makes up the difference, is being depleted. Monday, the reserve supply filled up 66 percent of available holding space but by Tuesday evening, it filled only 37 percent. "The treatment plant is operating normally and we're making really good water," he said. "But I think people aren't appreciating the extraordinary nature of the emergency. They're behaving normally and I need them not to do that." Sunday, floodwaters swallowed Metro's Donelson-area treatment plant and came close to wiping out the city's other plant, a scenario that would have left Nashville with no running water. If the reserve supply continues to shrink, people in the outer areas of Davidson County will be most affected. Metro will still produce fresh water, but residents who live closest to the downtown treatment plant will get to it first. Residents are being asked to cut their usage by 50 percent. That means showering every other day, cutting back on laundry and dishwashing and not watering lawns or washing cars. Officials also need to be notified of any water main breaks so they can be repaired. Conserving is critical The average household uses 170 gallons per day for showering, laundry and dishes. Halting outdoor watering, car washing and other non-essential uses is the best way to save, said Robert C. Renner, executive director of the water research foundation, a nonprofit based in Denver. A running water hose typically uses 18 gallons per minute, while watering your lawn can use up to 250 gallons per cycle. Tuesday, Metro police driving around the city were asking car washes to close and for businesses to turn off their sprinklers. Rumors were circulating that Metro planned to stop water service, prompting some residents to turn into conservation activists. To underscore the conservation message, the state issued an unprecedented mandate to Davidson and Williamson county residents to use water only for hygiene and drinking. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation won't be handing out tickets, but it has the power to if necessary. Sandy Jones, who runs National Car Wash along with her husband and son, said she got nasty phone calls from residents who were angry the business hadn't been shut down. But floodwaters kept Jones and her family from leaving their home in Lebanon until Tuesday. "They were saying, 'We can't give water to our babies and you're washing cars. We know you're all about the money, but save water,' " she said. "But even if we had wanted to close washes, we could not get to them." Mafiaoza's Pizzeria and Pub on 12th South brought in three outdoor port-a-potties and two hand-washing stations for customer to help conserve water. The restaurant also switched to paper products, canned drinks and bottled water. "We cut our water use down by 60 or 70 percent," said Lars Kopperud, co-owner of the restaurant. "We're trying to make a good effort. This is essentially the brown-out of water." Kopperud said the restaurant went into crisis management mode on Sunday to make sure operations could continue. Employees still use water to wash their hands and when needed to make sure they are up to code. "A restaurant is a moving piece of machinery — it doesn't stop," he said.

Tent City homeless camp is destroyed by flooding

Homeless people flee to dry refuges By Bob Smietana • THE TENNESSEAN • May 5, 2010 Tent City is gone. The embattled homeless encampment, just off of Hermitage Avenue, which has escaped several shutdown notices from Metro police, was washed away by the weekend's flooding. About 120 people were evacuated from the camp on Sunday, with the help of volunteers from local churches. They left their few possessions behind. Most escaped with little more than the clothes on their backs. Reginald "Vegas" Watson, 45, a member of the residents council that helped organize Tent City, said the camp is uninhabitable. The property is covered with diesel fuel from a nearby ruptured storage tank and waste from overturned portable toilets. "We're not going back," he said. "It's not a fit place for people to live." Watson and about 70 other residents are staying at a Red Cross shelter setup at Lipscomb University. Others are at Green Street Church of Christ and Woodbine Cumberland Presbyterian Church and other local shelters, or are staying in hotels or with friends. A group of volunteers from local churches and homeless advocates are looking for a new temporary site for Tent City before the emergency shelters close down. "The folks will literally have no place to go," Watson said. Plans had been in the works to close the camp by the fall, said Clifton Harris of the Metro Homelessness Commission. The long-term plan is to get Tent City residents into a Housing First program, where they have a permanent place to live and case management services. "That's the permanent solution," Harris said, "but we also need a temporary solution." Harris said that he and volunteers such as Doug Sanders from Otter Creek Church of Christ are looking for one or two acres for the new Tent City. The site has to be along a bus line, and can't be close to a school or day care. Having a water meter on the site would help as well, Sanders said. "We don't need much beyond water," Sanders said. "We can bring in portable toilets and Dumpsters." Otter Creek Church and other local congregations are trying to collect tents, sleeping bags and other supplies for Tent City residents. "We're trying to give them a place to start over,'' he said. Patricia Coronado, a 23-year-old who lived at the homeless camp, said she will not go to the new location. "I won't go back to living in a tent," she said, but she doesn't know what she's going to do. Watson said that former Tent City residents are nervous and worried about the future. For now, he and other members of the residents council are trying to keep in touch by cell phone with Tent City residents who are scattered at various shelters. But he believes things will work out, pointing to the biblical story of the flood. "God sent that flood to cleanse things and to make way for something better," he said. "I'm hoping for something better."