SUMMARY: Tennessee State Parks has hired its first accessibility coordinator, Ryan Jolley, to improve access to outdoor experiences for people with disabilities. Jolley, who has been legally blind since age 10 due to a rare genetic disease, will advise, train, and lead projects to enhance park accessibility. Nearly 50 parks in Tennessee now offer all-terrain wheelchairs, helping visitors with mobility issues enjoy otherwise inaccessible areas. Tennessee State Parks aims to become the nation’s most accessible system, with continued progress driven by Jolley’s expertise and input from those with diverse abilities. The announcement coincided with Disability Advocacy Day.

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SUMMARY: Sam Kenti is reporting live from a storm tracker vehicle south of Murphysboro, Tennessee, where heavy rainfall and flooding are prevalent. Currently on State Route 268, Kenti is approaching White County, which is under a tornado watch. While there has been consistent rain and overflowing creeks, no significant damage has been observed so far. However, the threat of flooding is a major concern, especially in residential areas near Murphysboro, where water levels are rising. Kenti emphasizes the need for caution as they navigate the secondary roads, monitoring conditions as they drive toward Sparta.

News 2 has a crew in the StormTracker checking out the severe weather in Middle Tennessee.

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SUMMARY: A family-owned restaurant in Gallatin, Martin’s Chicken and Waffles, is struggling to survive due to road construction outside their business. Owners Artha and Mo Martin say the noise from the construction, which they were not warned about, has made it difficult for them to continue. They have adjusted their hours, but business remains tough, especially after the impact of COVID-19. The restaurant, once a popular food truck, is a local favorite but is now facing financial strain. Gallatin’s mayor supports the Martins, acknowledging the importance of the roadwork but encouraging a compromise to assist small businesses. They’ve launched a GoFundMe for help.

A family-owned restaurant in Gallatin is pleading with the community to help them stay open.

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