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Report: Despite recent upgrades, wastewater system still needs billions | Tennessee

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Kim Jarrett | The Center Square – 2024-09-19 12:15:00

SUMMARY: Tennessee invested $510 million from the American Rescue Plan to upgrade its wastewater systems, yet faces a $3.5 billion funding shortfall for projects by 2027. The 2018 TN H2O report predicted $8.9 billion is needed through 2040 due to aging infrastructure and rising population, which is projected to reach nearly 8 million by 2042. The American Society of Civil Engineers graded Tennessee’s wastewater infrastructure a C-, citing neglected maintenance amid expansion efforts. Staffing shortages also pose challenges as many certified operators near retirement. Solutions include grants, bonds, and loans, though smaller municipalities may struggle with financing options.

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Virginia jobs caught in cross-border dispute over company’s operations in Mexico | Virginia

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Shirleen Guerra | The Center Square – (The Center Square – ) 2025-04-25 13:01:00

(The Center Square) – A U.S.-based construction materials company, with operations supporting thousands of jobs in Virginia, is at the center of a growing trade dispute as lawmakers urge the Mexican government to reconsider actions they say undermine investor confidence and violate international agreements.

In a recent letter to Mexican Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard Casaubon, Sens. Tim Kaine, D-Va., and Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., expressed their concern over the government’s efforts to expropriate property from the company.

“Vulcan Materials Company, a global leader in construction materials based in Alabama, has been operating in Mexico for over three decades… supporting thousands of jobs in Mexico and across Virginia and Tennessee,” the senators wrote.

Vulcan Materials Company, which supplies construction aggregates used in projects across the United States, has operated in Mexico for over 30 years. The U.S. Senators said that the Mexican government’s disruption of Vulcan’s operations may violate protections established under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

The trade tensions follow recent efforts in Congress to address property seizures abroad. Hagerty also introduced the Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2024, which would identify property in foreign ports controlled by U.S. persons and restrict access to those ports if the property is nationalized or expropriated without due process.

The senators also emphasized that these actions “undermine efforts to strengthen these ties, as they create a perception of unpredictability toward foreign investments.”

They further warned that the Mexican government’s actions are “a critical blow to investor confidence under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.”

The letter urges the Mexican government to “reconsider its actions against Vulcan and to work with the company toward a resolution that respects the rights of foreign investors and Mexico’s commitments under international agreements.”

The senators highlighted the importance of a stable investment environment.

“By doing so, Mexico would demonstrate its commitment to honoring the principles of respect, transparency, and legal certainty that foster a stable and welcoming environment for all businesses,” the senators wrote.

They also noted that “Vulcan remains ready and willing to negotiate… to reach an amicable solution” and encouraged them to “cease unfounded public accusations against the company as you work to resolve the issue.”

They closed the letter by expressing that they are ready to “work with you to strengthen the bonds between our countries” and their hope that the Mexican government will “take the necessary steps to address our bipartisan concerns.”

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Why has Memphis been spared in recent tornado outbreaks?

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www.youtube.com – FOX13 Memphis – 2025-04-25 11:18:32

SUMMARY: Memphis has been largely spared during recent tornado outbreaks, despite the area being impacted by destructive storms elsewhere in the Midsouth. Some locals believe the city’s location near the Mississippi River or the bluffs offer protection, but experts, including Dr. Dorian Bernett from the University of Memphis, confirm this isn’t true. Tornadoes have crossed the river and hit Memphis multiple times, with 56 recorded in Shelby County since 1950. While forecasting has improved, it’s still impossible to predict exactly where tornadoes will touch down. Survivors urge the public to take every severe weather warning seriously and always be prepared.

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he National Weather Service has confirmed that at least 35 tornadoes hit the Mid-South during a series of storms in early April 2025. The severe weather outbreak killed several people and damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes in Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas and Missouri.

MORE: https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/why-has-memphis-been-spared-in-recent-tornado-outbreaks/article_725f44a8-a0cb-4b7a-b8a9-e44c4882e53c.html

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Mangia: Eat. Drink. Sing. Celebrate!

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www.youtube.com – WKRN News 2 – 2025-04-24 15:40:04

SUMMARY: Mangia: Eat. Drink. Sing. Celebrate! is an Italian restaurant where every night feels like a festive Italian wedding, featuring a unique three-hour dining experience aligned with The Godfather film. After nearly closing, community support helped the family-owned restaurant thrive in Melrose for nearly nine years. Open only Friday and Saturday nights, guests can enjoy a delightful spring menu with iconic dishes and even ricotta donuts. With a lively atmosphere and the chance for patrons to join in on the dance floor, it’s the perfect place for celebrations, making lasting memories with family and friends. Reservations are highly recommended.

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When you’re here, you’re family, truly!  You’re invited to check out this pop-up style dining experience. Feel the passion for food as you’re entertained to the core! Sing, dance, celebrate, and don’t forget bocce ball! Cent ‘Anni!

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