Greenbelt, MD – NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is cruising back to Earth with a sample it collected from the rocky surface of asteroid Bennu. When its sample capsule parachutes down into the Utah desert on September 24th, OSIRIS-REx will become the United States’ first-ever mission to return an asteroid sample to Earth.

After seven years in space, including a nail-biting touchdown on Bennu to gather dust and rocks, this intrepid mission is about to face one of its biggest challenges yet: deliver the asteroid sample to Earth while protecting it from heat, vibrations, and earthly contaminants.  

“Once the sample capsule touches down, our team will be racing against the clock to recover it and get it to the safety of a temporary clean room,” said Mike Moreau, deputy project manager at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.

So, over the next six months, the OSIRIS-REx team will practice and refine the procedures required to recover the sample in Utah and transport it to a new lab built for the material at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. There, scientists will unpack the sample, distribute up to a quarter of it to the OSIRIS-REx science team around the world for analysis, and curate the rest for other scientists to study, now and in future generations.  

Flight dynamics engineers from NASA Goddard and KinetX Aerospace are reviewing the trajectory that will bring the spacecraft close to Earth. At Lockheed Martin in Denver, team members are keeping tabs on the spacecraft and preparing a group to recover the sample capsule.

This summer, crews in Colorado and Utah will practice all of the steps to recover the capsule safely, while protecting it from contamination. At Johnson Space Center, the curation team is rehearsing their procedure to unpack and process the sample inside glove boxes. Meanwhile, members of the sample science team are preparing the investigations they will perform with the sample material once received.

“The OSIRIS-REx team has already performed amazing feats characterizing and sampling asteroid Bennu,” said Dante Lauretta, OSIRIS-REx principal investigator from the University of Arizona, Tucson. “These accomplishments are the direct result of the extensive training and rehearsals that we performed every step of the way. We are bringing that level of discipline and dedication to this final phase of the flight operations.”
 
Asteroids are the ancient materials left over from the original era of planet formation and may contain molecular precursors to life. Scientists have learned a great deal from studying asteroid fragments that have naturally reached the ground as meteorites. But to understand whether asteroids played a role in delivering these compounds to Earth’s surface over 4 billion years ago, scientists need a pristine sample from space, free from terrestrial contaminants.
 
In addition, the most fragile rocks observed on Bennu probably would not have survived passage through Earth’s atmosphere as meteorites. “There are two things pervasive on Earth: water and biology,” said Dr. Jason Dworkin, OSIRIS-REx project scientist at NASA Goddard. “Both can severely alter meteorites when they land on the ground and muddle the story told by the sample’s chemistry and mineralogy. A pristine sample could provide insights into the development of solar system.”

On September 24th, as the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft flies by Earth, it will release its sample return capsule, thereby ending its primary mission. The capsule, which is estimated to hold about a cup of Bennu’s material – 8.8 ounces +/- 3.6 ounces (250 grams +/- 101 grams) to be precise – will land within a 37-mile by 9-mile ellipse (59 km by 15 km) within Department of Defense property that is part of the Utah Test and Training Range and Dugway Proving Grounds.

OSIRIS-REx team members from NASA Goddard, KinetX, Lockheed Martin, and NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, are using computer models to test navigation plans in various weather, solar activity, and space debris scenarios to ensure that when the capsule enters Earth’s atmosphere at 9:41am VT (8:41 a.m. MT), it will touch down inside the targeted area 13 minutes later.

Recovery crews are responsible for securing the sample return capsule’s landing site and helicoptering it to a portable clean room located at the range. Additionally, crews will collect soil and air samples all around the landing capsule. These samples will help identify if any minute contaminants contacted the asteroid sample. 

Once the capsule is inside the building with the portable clean room, members of the team will remove the heat shield, back shell, and other components to prepare the sample canister for transport to Houston. 

The return to Earth of samples from asteroid Bennu will be the culmination of a more than 12-year effort by NASA and its mission partners but marks the beginning of a new phase of discovery as scientists from around the world will turn their attention to the analysis of this unique and precious material dating from the early formation of our solar system.

Related Story

• Oct. 14, 2022 — 1st NASA Asteroid Sample Return Mission on Track for Fall ’23 Delivery

About NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center

NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center provides overall mission management, systems engineering, and safety and mission assurance for OSIRIS-REx. Dante Lauretta of the University of Arizona, Tucson, is the principal investigator. The university leads the science team and the mission’s science observation planning and data processing. Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton, Colorado, built the spacecraft and provides flight operations.

Goddard and KinetX Aerospace are responsible for navigating the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft. Curation for OSIRIS-REx, including processing the sample when it arrives on Earth, will take place at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. International partnerships on this mission include the OSIRIS-REx Laser Altimeter instrument from the Canadian Space Agency and asteroid sample science collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Hayabusa2 mission.

OSIRIS-REx is the third mission in NASA’s New Frontiers Program, managed by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for the agency’s Science Mission Directorate Washington.

The post NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft to bring back Asteroid Sample, September 24th appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Richmond, KY – The Austin Peay State University (APSU) beach volleyball team extended its winning streak to eight matches after a 3-2 win against Eastern Kentucky and 5-0 victory against Liberty on the final day of the EKU Beach Tournament, Saturday, at the Eastern Kentucky Beach Volleyball Facility.

Austin Peay State University grabbed the quick advantage in the day’s first match against EKU, as Karli Graham and Tristin Smith improved to 5-4 on the season after defeating the Colonels’ No. 5 pairing of Elizabeth Fonvielle and Chloe Mason, 24-22, 21-15. 

The Colonels answered with a win on the No. 4 line, defeating Tegan Seyring and Erin Eisenhart, but Jamie Seward and Elizabeth Wheat won their match from the No. 3 position, 23-21, 23-21, to regain APSU’s lead. Seward and Wheat improved to 7-4 this season following their straight-set win against EKU’s Bella Williams and Rachel Mueller.

Marlayna Bullington and Kelsey Mead had a six-match winning streak come to an end following a 21-15, 21-17 loss to Eastern Kentucky’s Shannon Stone and Hannah Keating in the No. 1 pairing.

Despite dropping their first set, 21-17, Chloee McDaniel and Mikayla Powell came back to win in three sets and clinch the win for APSU from the No. 2 position. The clinch is the second in as many days for McDaniel and Powell, as they also secured the Govs’ 3-2 comeback victory against Liberty yesterday.

With the win against EKU, Austin Peay State University improved to 10-5 and 6-2 all-time against Eastern Kentucky.

The Governors claimed their season’s 11th win and fourth sweep in a 5-0 victory against Liberty in the tournament finale.

Seyring and Eisenhart won their fifth match of the spring with a straight-set, 21-9, 21-7 win from the No. 4 position. Smith and Graham’s match from the No. 5 line was the next to go final, as the duo earned their sixth win of the season against Liberty’s Abigail Luke and Emma Taylor.

Bullington and Mead avenged their earlier loss with a commanding, 21-16, 21-9 win from the No. 1 position, clinching APSU’s eighth-straight win.

With the result decided Seward and Wheat earned a 21-13, 21-14 win from the No. 3 court, while McDaniel and Powell won a pair of close sets, coming away with a 21-19, 24-22 victory.

The APSU Govs remain on the road for their penultimate tournament of the regular season when they participate in the two-day, five-team UAB Beach Classic at the UAB Beach Volleyball Courts in Birmingham, Alabama.

APSU begins the tournament with a Friday 8:00am match against Jacksonville State before hosting Alabama-Birmingham at 2:00pm later that afternoon. It then wraps up the event with 8:00am and 2:00pm contests against Louisiana-Monroe and Mercer, respectively.

For news and updates on everything APSU  beach volleyball, follow along on Twitter and Instagram (@GovsBVB) or check back at LetsGoPeay.com.

EKU Beach Tournament Day Two Results

Austin Peay 3, Eastern Kentucky 2
1.   Shannon Stone/Hannah Keating def Marlayna Bullington/Kelsey Mead, 21-15, 21-17 
2.  Chloee McDaniel/Mikayla Powell def. Paityn Walker/Sarah Mitchell, 17-21, 21-16, 15-13
3.  Jamie Seward/Elizabeth Wheat def. Bella Williams/Rachel Mueller, 23-21, 23-21
4. EK Lonergan/Maddy Campbell def. Tegan Seyring/Erin Eisenhart, 24-22, 21-15
5. Karli Graham/Tristin Smith def. Elizabeth Fonvielle/Chloe Mason, 24-22, 21-15

Order of finish: 5, 4, 3, 1, 2*

Austin Peay 5, Liberty 0
1. Marlayna Bullington/Kelsey Mead def. Lizzy Armstrong/Kaitlyn Holbrook, 21-16, 21-9
2. Chloee McDaniel/Mikayla Powell def. Heather Forton/Cara Leckloder, 21-19, 24-22
3. Jamie Seward/Elizabeth Wheat def. Grace Cropper/Sydnie Metzker, 21-13, 21-14
4. Tegan Seyring/Erin Eisenhart def. Taylor Arnold/Jillian Kater, 21-9, 21-7
5. Tristin Smith/Karli Graham def. Abigail Luke/Emma Taylor, 21-11, 21-15

Order of finish: 4, 5, 1*, 3, 2

The post APSU Beach Volleyball slides past Eastern Kentucky, sweeps Liberty on last day of EKU Beach Tournament appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Calloway County, KY – The Austin Peay State University (APSU) track and field team earned won three events and finished third as a team during its outdoor season’s opener, Saturday, at the Margaret Simmons Invitational.

The Governors’ 4×400-meter relay team of Kyra Wilder, Sydney Hartoin, Lauren Lewis, and Kenisha Phillips posted a tie of 3:47.94, nearly two seconds faster than the second-place team from Central Methodist.

Each of APSU’s next event wins came in the field, as the reigning ASUN Conference Indoor Pole Vault champion, Karlijn Schouten posted a 3.75-meter leap to tie for the gold. Freshman Emma Tucker then earned her first-career win with a 37.15-meter discus toss on her third attempt.

In addition to her event win, Tucker also tallied three of Austin Peay State University’s 13 top-five finishes. The Collierville, Tennessee native took fourth in both the shot put and hammer throw, registering marks of 11.08 and 40.66 meters, respectively.

Next Up For APSU Track and Field

After a week off, the Austin Peay State University women’s track and field team prepares Ole Miss’ Joe Walker Invitational, April 7th-8th, in Oxford, Mississippi.

Austin Peay State University Results

100-Meter: Isis Banks (12.14, fourth), Kyra Wilder (12.20, fifth), Na’Riyah Lee (12.80, 17th)

200-Meter: Isis Banks (24.99, fourth), Kyra Wilder (25.05, fifth), Na’Riyah Lee (26.56, 22nd)

400-Meter: Ashleigh Stephen (56.69, ninth), Sydney Hartoin (59.73, 10th)

800-Meter: Kenisha Phillips (2:24.67, seventh)

1500-Meter: Mikaela Smith (4:49.29, sixth), Lauren Lewis (4:56.45,12th), Ashley Doyle (5:00.83, 14th), Savannah Fruth (5:03.24, 17th)

100-Meter hurdles: Camaryn McClelland (14.78, seventh), Amani Sharif (15.11, 11th)

400-Meter hurdles: Amani Sharif (1:10.51, fourth)

4×100-Meter: Kennedi Johnson, Kyra Wilder, Nyla Blackmon, Isis Banks (47.15, second)

4×400-Meter: Kyra Wilder, Lauren Lewis, Kenisha Phillips, Sydney Hartoin (3:47.94, first)

Pole Vault: Karlijn Schouten (3.75, first), Myra Eriksson (3.60, third)

Long jump: Amani Sharif (5.27, third)

Shot Put: Emma Tucker (11.08, fourth)

Discus: Emma Tucker (37.15, first)

Hammer: Emma Tucker (40.66, fourth)

The post Austin Peay State University Track and Field places Third at Margaret Simmons Invitational appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Nashville, TN – At the request of 23^rd Judicial District Attorney General Ray Crouch, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) special agents are investigating the circumstances leading to an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday evening in Dickson County.

Preliminary information indicates that during the afternoon of March 24^th, deputies with the Dickson County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check in the 1000 block of Potter Road. 

While speaking with an individual at the address, deputies report the man retreated into a residence on the property with another person and refused to come out or let the other individual leave.

At some point during the negotiations, reports from the scene indicate the man inside the residence fired at deputies and struck a Dickson County Deputy.  The deputy was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

At approximately 8:30pm, during negotiations with the armed individual, for reasons still under investigation, shots were fired, and the man was fatally wounded.  The deceased individual has been identified as Mark Engele (DOB: 5/6/70).  No other officers or individuals were injured in this incident.

At this time, this investigation remains active and ongoing.  TBI agents are working to independently determine the series of events leading to the shooting, including collecting evidence and conducting interviews. 

Throughout the process, investigative findings will be shared with the District Attorney General for his further review and consideration. The TBI acts solely as fact-finders in its cases and does not determine whether the actions of an officer were justified in these types of matters.  That decision rests with the District Attorney General requesting TBI’s involvement.

The TBI does not identify the officers involved in these types of incidents and instead refers questions of that nature to their respective department to answer as it sees fit.

The post TBI Agents are looking into Dickson County Officer Involved Shooting appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Lynchburg, VA – The Austin Peay State University (APSU) baseball team trailed by six runs in the first inning, led by five runs after the fifth inning, and entered the ninth inning tied 15-15.

But first baseman Harrison Brown broke that tie with a two-out, two-run single as Austin Peay State University’s baseball team defeated Liberty, 18-15, in ASUN Conference action Saturday on Worthington Field at Liberty Baseball Stadium. 

Austin Peay (10-13, 3-2 ASUN) led by six runs late but saw its 15-9 lead erased in the eighth inning as Liberty (10-12, 2-3 ASUN) rallied for six runs with two outs in the bottom of the eighth, capped by a grand slam by second baseman Nathan Keeter.

But in the ninth, Austin Peay State University pieced together some two-out magic of its own. Right fielder Nathan Barksdale started the inning with a four-pitch walk but the next two Governors batters were retired. Liberty intentionally walked center fielder Garrett Martin, bringing second baseman Jon Jon Gazdar – a.k.a the ASUN’s toughest batter to strikeout – to the plate. Gazdar would need just five pitches to earn a walk, loading the bases.

Up stepped Harrison Brown, who promptly watched the count run to 3-1. His patience rewarded, he laced the 3-1 offering past the Flames first baseman, and two Governors scored for a 17-15 lead. Shortstop Jaden Brown followed up by taking the first pitch he saw through the same spot on the field for a run-scoring single and an 18-15 lead.

That was enough for APSU Govs closer Davin Pollard (1-0), who struck out the first two batters he saw in the inning before inducing a ground out to seal the victory. He retired all four batters he faced for his season’s first victory.

Harrison Brown was 2-for-6 with two RBI, including the game-winning single. Martin was 3-for-5 with a double, home run, and five RBI. Jaden Brown, Gazdar, and designated hitter Lyle Miller-Green also had home runs as the APSU Govs set season highs for runs scored and base hits (17).

Keeter hit two home runs in his 2-for-5, seven RBI effort to lead Liberty. Reliever Jeremy Beamon (0-1) pitched the ninth inning, allowing three runs on two hits and three walks.

Austin Peay State University got a promising start, scoring two runs in the first inning. Miller-Green hit a solo home run to right center to open the day’s scoring. Martin followed with a double to right field, advanced to third on a balk, and scored on Gazdar’s sacrifice fly.

Liberty quickly erased that lead in an inning eerily similar to its second inning of Game 1. The Flames took advantage of four walks and an Austin Peay State University error to strike for eight runs while sending 12 men to the plate. Keeter delivered the final blow in the inning with a three-run home run into the Liberty bullpen for an 8-2 lead.

The Governors’ adversity started in the second inning when reliever Jackie Robinson departed early due to an apparent injury. Reliever Peyton Jula closed out a scoreless second inning and returned to start the third.

However, his first pitch of the third inning sailed over the Liberty batter’s head. Jula was ejected, along with head coach Roland Fanning, and followed by catcher Trevor Conley. Reliever Tyler Hampu followed and completed the third without allowing a run.

Austin Peay State University’s demeanor changed after the ejections, which showed at the plate in the fourth inning. Catcher Gus Freeman opened the inning with a single, Barksdale walked, and Gray singled to load the bases. Miller-Green then slapped a single through the infield for a run. Martin followed with a two-run single, tying the game 8-8.
 
But the APSU Govs kept going as, two batters later, Jaden Brown hammered a three-run home run to left-center field for an 11-8 lead. Austin Peay State University extended its lead with a three-run fifth inning highlighted by Gazdar’s 409-foot home run to straight-away centerfield for a 14-9 advantage. The APSU Govs tacked on what appeared to be an insurance run in the eighth courtesy of a wild pitch, setting the scene for the frantic final innings.

Governor of the Game

Harrison Brown’s patience paid off in the ninth inning, and he supplied his fourth game-winning hit of 2023. He went 2-for-6 with two RBI, adding a third-inning single to his tally.

Number of Note

18 – The 18-run outburst was the Govs best of 2023. It also was their most runs scored in a game since Game 3 of the 2022 season. The Govs defeated Boston College 18-17 on Feb. 20 in a game won on Knaje Guthrie’s walk-off walk.

Other Notables

Austin Peay State University overcame a six-run deficit, matching its largest comeback win this season. The APSU Govs trailed by six runs against Southern Illinois in the season’s fourth game before winning 14-13.

The top of the APSU order – Gray, Miller-Green, Martin, and Gazdar – combined for 11 hits and 11 RBI in the win.

Austin Peay State University hit four home runs in a game for the second time this season, equaling their tally set on February 19th against Illinois State.

Right fielder Nathan Barksdale did not record a hit Saturday but reached base four times – three walks and reached on an error – and scored all four times. He also nabbed his first stolen base of 2023.

Gray, Martin, and Gazdar each had three-hit days. It was Gray’s second three-hit outing and the third of the season for Martin and Gazdar.

Martin became the second Governors hitter with a five-RBI game in 2023, joining Miller-Green, who had five RBI on February 19th against Illinois State.

Brown’s four RBI outing was his first this season and his team-leading eighth multi-RBI effort this season.

Next Up For APSU Baseball

The Austin Peay State University baseball team leveled the three-game series, 1-1, with Saturday’s victory. The Governors and Flames close the weekend on Sunday at noon CT with the series victory up for grabs.

The post Austin Peay State University Baseball wins hit fest against Liberty, 18-15 appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Charlotte, NC – Jordan Benefiel struck out a career-high 13 batters, for the Austin Peay State University (APSU) softball team, in the opening game of their three-game ASUN Conference series versus Queens, Saturday afternoon at The Stick Williams Dream Fields, as the Governors came away with the 3-0 shutout victory over the Royals.

It was a dominating performance for Benefiel (10-6) as along with the 13 strikeouts, only allowed Queens one hit and one walk over her seven innings of work, which also included retiring the final 16 batters she faced in the contest.

While Benefiel was keeping the Royals hitters at bay, the APSU Govs offense did all their damage in the top of the second inning, scoring all three of their runs in that frame.

Kylie Campbell would open the inning with an infield single and advance to second base on a throwing error by the Queens third baseman.

After an out, Gabi Apiag would lace a single to left, scoring Campbell for the first run of the game.

After the second out of the inning, Emily Harkleroad and Morgan Zuege would follow with back-to-back singles, with Zuege’s driving in Apiag with the second run of the inning.

The final run of the inning came a batter later, with Megan Hodum driving in Harkleroad with a single.

Inside the Boxscore

Jordan Benefiel’s second strikeout of the game was her 300th career strikeout, the sixth Austin Peay pitcher to reach that milestone.

The 13 strikeouts were Benefiel’s fourth double-figure strikeout effort of the year and the fifth of her career.

The shutout was Benefiel’s eighth career shutout, moving her alone into sixth place all-time for career shutouts.
 
In earning the win, Benefiel now has 32 career wins, moving her alone into sixth place for career victories.
 
Lexi Osowski-Anderson was the only player from either team to reach base twice in the contest, those coming on a third-inning walk and a sixth-inning single.

Tickets

For information, or to buy tickets to any other home softball games this season, go online at LetsGoPeay.com/BuyTickets or call the Austin Peay State University Ticket Office at 931.221.PEAY (7329).

APSU Govs Online

For up-to-date news and information on Austin Peay State University softball, go to LetsGoPeay.com or follow along on Twitter and Instagram (@GovsSB), or on Facebook. Live stats will be available during all home games at PeayStats.com.

In addition, all APSU home games will be broadcast on ESPN+ this season, visit the softball schedule at LetsGoPeay.com for a complete broadcast schedule.

Next Up For APSU Softball

The Austin Peay State University softball team and Queens conclude their three-game ASUN Conference series with a  Sunday doubleheader, beginning at 11:00am CT.

The post APSU Softball shuts down Queens, 3-0 appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Nashville, TN – At the request of 20^th Judicial District Attorney General Glenn Funk, and per a memorandum of understanding, TBI special agents are investigating the circumstances leading to an officer-involved shooting that occurred early Friday evening in Davidson County.

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 5:15 p.m., an officer with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department encountered an individual near 54^th Avenue North and Tennessee Avenue.  The individual was suspected in a recent domestic-related incident. 

For reasons still under investigation, during the officer’s encounter with the man, shots were fired, and the man was fatally wounded. The officer was not injured in the incident.

At this time, this investigation remains active and ongoing.  TBI agents are working to independently determine the series of events leading to the shooting, including collecting evidence and conducting interviews.  Throughout the process, investigative findings will be shared with the District Attorney General for his further review and consideration. 

The TBI acts solely as fact-finders in its cases and does not determine whether the actions of an officer were justified in these types of matters.  That decision rests with the District Attorney General requesting TBI’s Involvement.

The TBI does not identify the officers involved in these types of incidents and instead refers questions of that nature to their respective department to answer as it sees fit.

The post TBI investigates Metro Officer-Involved Shooting in Nashville appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Hopkinsville, KY – Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) will host a guest lecture event with Freedom Rider Hezekiah Watkins on Thursday, April 20th, 2023 at noon in the Auditorium Building, Riley Lecture Hall. 

Mr. Hezekiah Watkins is known as known as Mississippi’s youngest Freedom Rider. In 1961, young Hezekiah Watkins was arrested at the Greyhound Bus Station in Jackson, Mississippi at the age of 13. He was sent in a paddy wagon to Mississippi’s State Penitentiary, known as Parchman, and placed on Death Row.  

His crime was allegedly participating with a group known as the Freedom Riders, who had embarked on a journey from Washington D.C. to New Orleans to push for equal rights for African Americans, while also desegregating bus terminals throughout the south. 

After spending five days at Parchman, Hezekiah’s life would forever be changed. Upon his release, Hezekiah was recruited by James Bevel to officially join the Civil Rights Movement. He would continue his involvement in Mississippi’s fight for equality, resulting with him being arrested 109 times in the years to follow. These experiences guided him along a path to focus on improving the quality of life for African Americans everywhere, eventually resulting in Hezekiah’s recognition by the 112th Congress of the United States for his service to Mississippi and to mankind. 

Mr. Watkins now spends his time sharing his experiences in The Movement and educating all who visit the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. 

Mr. Watkins and Andrea Ledwell co-authored the book Pushing Forward, which tells the story of a young man who became an adult overnight, and whose life continues to focus on serving a much greater cause. Pushing Forward will be offered for sale after the lecture. 

This free event is co-sponsored by the HCC Foundation and HCC’s Office of the President. All are welcome and lunch will be provided. 

About Hopkinsville Community College

For many Pennyrile Kentucky region and Fort Campbell residents, higher education begins at Hopkinsville Community College (HCC).  The college serves thousands of area residents each year as a comprehensive regional learning center providing academic and technical associate degrees; diploma and certificate programs in occupational fields; pre-baccalaureate education; adult, continuing and developmental education; customized training for business and industry; and distance learning.

As part of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, HCC is a critical component to transforming the region’s economy by providing citizens with the education and training needed for high growth, high wage careers.

For more information, visit Hopkinsville.kctcs.edu

The post Hopkinsville Community College to hold Freedom Rider Hezekiah Watkins lecture on April 20th appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – A group of students and staff members from Austin Peay State University (APSU) traveled to Chattanooga, Tennessee over spring break to volunteer with multiple nonprofits as part of the University’s Alternative Break program.

During the weeklong trip, the group assisted service organizations such as the Hart Gallery and Habitat for Humanity in addition to exploring the city’s sights.

The Hart Gallery sells arts, crafts, and gifts created by artists within underserved populations, such as those experiencing homelessness, people with mental and physical disabilities, disabled veterans and women fleeing abusive situations.

Volunteers focused on the gallery’s community gardens, where they pulled weeds and added fresh soil. The group also had the opportunity to make paper maché heads for one of the gallery’s upcoming events.

Habitat for Humanity of Chattanooga partners with corporations, churches, civic groups and individuals in the Chattanooga community to help them build or improve a place they can call home. The group volunteered by helping customers at the Habitat ReStore, stocking new donated items and recycling old furniture.

“The trip has been enriching for me because I was able to make a difference to someone,” said Katarie Herman, Austin Peay State University graduate student. “Being at the Hart Gallery, we helped to cultivate a community garden that provides for the local community that would otherwise go without. Working with Habitat for Humanity has its own rewards. I am 100% grateful for the experience and would do it again without question.”

Austin Peay State University’s alternative break trips and other volunteer-based programs are hosted through the department of Community Engagement & Sustainability.

Trips are designed to engage students in meaningful and collaborative community service in an effort to increase awareness of social and environmental issues and strengthen the communities in which they serve, as well as foster a strong sense of community among trip participants and the University as a whole.

The post Austin Peay State University students volunteer in Chattanooga through Alternative Break program appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) in Montgomery County will be doing work consisting of intersection improvements that include grading, drainage, and construction of retaining walls along SR 112 and SR 76.

Daily from 9:00am until 3:00pm, temporary lane closures for utility relocation, grading, and drainage installation.

Davidson County

I-24

The life cycle replacement of Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) on various Interstate routes.

3/26, 8:00pm – 12:00am, there will be a right lane closure and rolling roadblocks on I-24 EB to replace a DMS near Old Hickory Boulevard (MM 37 – 39)

3/27, 12:00am – 4:00am, there will be a right lane closure and rolling roadblocks on I-24 EB to replace a DMS near Briley Parkway (MM 40 – 42)

The retracing of pavement markings with spray thermoplastic on various Interstate and State Routes

Nightly, 8:00pm – 5:00am, there will be temporary mobile lane closures on I-24 in the EB and WB directions for restripe operations. there will be two striping crews so work may be done on multiple routes: MM 40-46, 48-49, 52-53, 57-63.

I-40

The repair of bridges on I-40 over Fairfield Avenue (MM 211 – 213)

Nightly, 8:00pm – 5:00am, there will be lane closures on I-40 WB to stage barrier rail, repair parapet, and mill asphalt.

Look Ahead: 3/31 – 4/3 Continuously from 9:00pm – 5:00am, there will be two lanes closed on I-40 WB at Fairfield Avenue (MM 211) for bridge repair work. I-24 WB will be closed at exit 52A, with traffic detoured to I-440. I-24 WB will be closed at exit 211, with traffic detoured to I-40 around the downtown loop. The on ramp from Murfreesboro Road to I-24 WB will be closed.
 
The retracing of pavement markings with spray thermoplastic on various Interstate and State Routes
 
Nightly, 8:00pm – 5:00am, there will be temporary mobile lane closures on I-40 in the EB and WB directions for restripe operations. there will be two striping crews so work may be done on multiple routes.
 
The grading, drainage, construction of bridges, retaining walls and paving on I-40 (MM 216) at the Donelson Pike interchange
 
Daily, 10:00am – 2:00pm, there will be rolling roadblocks for blasting operations. Blasts are tentatively scheduled for 3/23 and 3/28 at 1pm.
 
Nightly, 8:00pm – 4:00am, there will be lane closures on I-40 for maintenance paving.

I-65

The retracing of pavement markings with spray thermoplastic on various Interstate and State Routes

Nightly, 8:00pm – 5:00am, there will be temporary mobile lane closures on I-65 in the NB and SB directions for restripe operations at the following locations: MM 74-78, 85-86, 87-98) there will be two striping crews so work may be done on multiple routes.

The life cycle replacement of Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) on various Interstate routes.

3/26, 4:30am – 11:00am, The four right lanes will be closed on I-65 SB to replace DMSs near Old Hickory Boulevard and Vietnam Veterans Parkway.

I-65 / SR 254

The grading, drainage, construction of a retaining wall, signals and paving on I-65 at the NB exit ramp to SR 254 (OHB, Exit 74A)

Daily, 9:00am – 3:00pm there will be temporary lane closures on SR 254 (OHB) in both directions for grading and signal work. Two lanes will remain open in each direction.

SR 112

SR 112 (US 41A/Clarksville Pike) from SR 12 (Ashland City Highway) to SR 155 (Briley Parkway) – Piedmont Move Prior

Daily, 9:00am – 3:00pm, there will be a temporary alternating lane closure on SR 112 Clarksville Pike in both directions for grade work, paving, installation of storm drainage, sanitary sewer, installation of water line, underground communications, and overhead power. Courtney Avenue will be closed and the merging lane to Nashville on Ashland City highway will closed. Kings Lane will be closed. Flaggers will be utilized.

Dickson County / Williamson County / Cheatham County / Davidson County

I-40

The expansion of the SmartWay Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) on I-40 from near I-840 in Dickson County to near U.S. 70S (Exit 196) in Davidson County

Daily, 7:30am – 6:00pm, there will be temporary daytime shoulder closure in both directions for trenching and boring operations at various locations throughout the project limits.

Robertson County

I-24

Construction and Bridge Repair

Continuous, the outside shoulder will be closed in both directions with barrier rail at 4 different overpassing bridges for bridge repair: SR-49, Jack Teasley Road, Gause Road, SR-256. Both lanes of travel on I-24 will remain open.

I-65

Interstate Widening – Grading, drainage, construction of bridges and retaining walls, ITS and paving

Nightly, 8:00pm – 5:00am there will be temporary lane closures on I-65 NB and SB for roadway maintenance, one lane will always remain open.

Scheduled Maintenance Work

Pothole Patching will be conducted daily from 9:00am – 3:00pm on the following roads:

• Davidson County SR 11
• Davidson County SR 10
• Davidson County SR 45
• Davidson County SR 171
• Davidson County SR 251
• Davidson County 254
• Maury County SR 247

Davidson County – I-24

Milling and Paving (pothole repairs)

Nightly, 8:00pm – 5:00am, Alternating Lane closures on WB lanes (MM 53 – 63)

Davidson County – I-40

Adding lane on WB exit ramp of I-40 and McCrory Lane, mill and pave existing pavement and traffic light installation

Nightly, 9:00pm – 3:00am, right lane and shoulder closure at I-40 WB off ramp.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

Motorists are encouraged to use caution and obey reduced speed limits in all TDOT work zones, regardless of lane closure activity. Information in this report is provided to the Department of Transportation by the contractors. Most work is weather-dependent and subject to change due to inclement weather.

For more information on this or any other TDOT road construction project or to view travel conditions in this area visit the TDOT SmartWay Information System website ( www.tn.gov/tdot/tdotsmartway/ ).

People can also dial 511 from any landline or cellular phone to access up-to-date traffic conditions, or visit www.TN511.com ( http://www.tn511.com/ ). TDOT is also now on Twitter. For up-to-date traffic tweets for the Nashville area follow Nashville511 ( http://twitter.com/nashville511 ) on Twitter. For statewide traffic tweets just follow TN511 ( http://twitter.com/TN511 ).

Motorists are reminded to use all motorist information tools responsibly. Drivers should refrain from texting, tweeting, or using a mobile phone while operating a vehicle.

The post Clarksville-Montgomery County area TDOT Work starting March 25th, 2023 appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – CDE Lightband reports that there are scattered outages around Clarksville affecting around 270 customers. Most are from a few trees and lines down.

Please stay away from downed lines as they could still be live and dangerous!

CDE crews are working hard as they can to get power restored.

About CDE Lightband

CDE Lightband, the municipal electric and broadband provider for the City of Clarksville, offers electric, internet, video and voice services to customers within the Clarksville city limits. CDE Lightband serves over 80,000 metered homes and businesses with electric service and nearing 30,000 customers with broadband services over our Fiber to the Premise Network.

CDE Lightband provides reliable utilities delivered at the speed of light. Our service area, consisting of 100 square miles within the municipal boundaries, includes 892 miles of power lines and 960 miles of fiber optic cable.

Our world-class Fiber Optic Network keeps electric costs low and allows us to deliver exceptional products and constant innovation. The network provides savings of over $1 million annually in operating costs and provides over $5 million annually in income for electrical grid improvements that result in half as many large scale power outages compared to peer cities.

Additionally, access to our network increases home values by 3% or an average of over $5,000, according to the Fiber to the Home Council. Based in large part on access to the superior digital products provided by CDE Lightband, Clarksville has been designated a first 50 “Next Century City.”

CDE Lightband offers Electricity, Internet, Digital TV and Telephone services with blazing fast speed and superior performance … with the additional convenience of 24/7 local support and bundling all your utilities into a single bill.

Our staff includes 200 full-time employees, a management team with over 100 years of combined industry expertise and governance provided by a board of five local business leaders.

For more information, visit their website at www.cdelightband.com

The post CDE Lightband reports about 167 customers without power in Clarksville appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Montgomery County, TN – The Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation (CEMC) reports that power has been restored to a majority of eastern Montgomery County. Currently, around 800 remain without power across their service area.

To report an outage, please use the SmartHub mobile app, or call or text OUT to 800.987.2362. View our online interactive outage map at www.cemc.org/outagemap/

Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible.

About Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation

The Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation (CEMC) is a nonprofit electric cooperative regulated by TVA and governed by a member-elected board of directors. We are committed to meeting the needs of our membership by delivering safe, affordable, and reliable services the cooperative way.

For your convenience, CEMC has one telephone number to serve all your needs, including power outages and service requests, 800.987.CEMC (2362).

For more information visit their website at www.cemc.org

The post CEMC update on Montgomery County power outage appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Fort Campbell, KY – After a three-day Best Leader competition, Blanchfield Army Community Hospital named its Commissioned Officer, Noncommissioned Officer, and Soldier of the Year during an award ceremony at the hospital, on March 23rd.

Capt. Trevor Rice, a social worker assigned to the hospital’s Social Work Intern Program, Sgt. Mohammad Mansaray, a combat medic specialist assigned to the Emergency Center, and Spc. Angel Galvez, a medical laboratory specialist assigned to Department of Pathology, was named Commissioned Officer, NCO and Soldier of the Year, respectively.

“It speaks volumes about what each one of these warfighters went out and did. When we talk about Army Medicine we talk about readiness. We want to make sure our Soldiers are ready medical Forces to support the Army mission to deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars,” said First Sgt. Johnny Thompson, BACH’s senior enlisted leader.

During the competition events like an 11-mile ruck march with a 60-pound load, combat water survival skills test, tactical combat casualty care, day and night land navigation, and stress shoot simulated conditions Soldiers could encounter caring for casualties during combat operations. Competitors were evaluated on their ability to perform each task in an accurate timely manner.

Competition coordinators also incorporated an Army Combat Fitness Test, marksmanship, oral board, written exam and essay to round out the events.

“When we have Soldiers participate in training like this, they are going out there and becoming the best in their profession and setting the standard for others to emulate,” added Thompson. He praised all the competitors for their enthusiasm and perseverance.

“This is very humbling. It was a tough competition and I want to thank the [cadre] and my fellow competitors for this opportunity.” said Rice.

Mansaray also said that he was thankful for the opportunity and looks forward to training with his teammates and representing the hospital at the next level of competition later this year at the Medical Readiness Command, East, Best Squad Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

This will be his second consecutive year representing BACH at the regional level for Galvez.

“I’m excited. I’ve got my notes from last year and I’m ready to work with the team,” said Galvez, thanking his wife, lab team and leaders for their support.

Enlisted participants were previous BACH Soldier or NCO of the Quarter winners. The competition originated from the Soldier and NCO of the Year Competition, but with the inclusion of commissioned officers, O1-O3 last year, was renamed Best Leader.

Other participants were Capt. Jennah Janney, Department of Physical Therapy; 1st Lt. Dylan Richardson, Nutrition Care Division; Sgt. Christian Shemo, Emergency Center; Cpl. Jillian Yim, Mother-Baby Unit; Spc. Stephon Clarke, Department of Surgery; and Spc. Alim Umarov, Emergency Center.

The post Blanchfield Army Community Hospital Best Leader Competition tests Soldier, NCO, Officer readiness appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Calloway  County, KY – Catcher Trevor Conley had four hits and four RBI as the Austin Peay State University (APSU) baseball team opened its four-game road trip with a wire-to-wire 10-3 victory against Murray State Wednesday at Johnny Reagan Field.

Austin Peay (9-12) set the tone with its first at-bat, with left fielder Clayton Gray rifling a triple off the top of the right-field wall. Two batters later, center fielder Garrett Martin drove Gray in with a single. The Governors would tack on a second run when Jaden Brown reached on an error, and Martin leaped over the Racers catcher to score for the 2-0 lead.

Conley would have a hand in four of the APSU Govs’ final eight runs. His third-inning two-run single put the Govs ahead 5-0. He would extend the lead to 7-0 with a fifth-inning RBI single and capped APSU’s scoring with an RBI single in the sixth inning.

Austin Peay State University reliever Jacob Weaver (1-1) picked up his season’s first win with a career-long 5.1-inning outing. He allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out four batters. Weaver retired eight consecutive batters before surrendering a one-out walk in the eighth inning.

Murray State (10-11) used that eighth-inning walk to start a two-run scoring rally. Shortstop Drew Vogel supplied a two-out RBI single, and reserve second baseman Riley Hawthorne singled to drive in a second run. However, Weaver induced a flyout to end the threat.

Conley led the APSU Govs with his 4-for-5, four RBI outing. Third baseman Ambren Voitik went 2-for-4 with an RBI, and three runs scored. Martin also was 2-for-4 with an RBI and three runs scored.

Murray State starting pitcher Cade Brown (0-1) went 2.2 innings and allowed four runs on three hits and three walks. The Racers used eight pitchers in the contest. Austin Peay State University’s trio of pitchers held the MSU offense to six hits with no batter posting a multi-hit outing.

Number of Note

13 – Austin Peay State University posted 13 hits against the Racers, the third consecutive game the Govs have batted .300 or better in a game. Before the current stretch, the Govs had five-straight games hitting below .300. It also was APSU’s ninth game with 10 or more hits.

Governor of the Game

Trevor Conley notched his first four-hit day as a Governor, opening with a double before placing three singles in play. It was his fourth multi-hit day of 2023, and he is the fourth Governors’ hitter to record four or more hits in a game. He joined Lyle Miller-Green, Matt Aribal, and Harrison Brown in the four-hit club.

Other Notables

Paul Rector opened the game for the Govs and went a season-best 2.2 innings while holding Murray State to one run on two hits, striking out three batters.

Payton Jula closed the game, and it was his third relief pitching appearance since his return from an Illness that sidelined him for 17 days. He has not allowed an earned run in his three relief appearances while striking out two batters in each outing.

Martin extended his reached safely streak to 10 games – second longest by a Governor this season.
 
Conley extended his reached-safely streak to nine games.
 
Austin Peay State University defeated Murray State for the seventh time since the start of the 2019 season (15 games).

Next Up For APSU Baseball

The Austin Peay State University (APSU) baseball team continues its road trip with its first ASUN Conference road series against preseason-favorite Liberty. The three-game series begins with a Friday 3:00pm contest at Worthington Field.   

The post Austin Peay State University Baseball defeats Murray State on the road, 10-3 appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – The Clarksville Police Department (CPD) is investigating a reported theft of property where an individual loaded several spools of wire into a tote on March 17th from Lowes located at 2150 Lowes Drive and left without paying for the items.

Loss prevention officers reviewed the video security cameras and gave the images to the Clarksville Police Department. The suspect grabbed a large bag of grass seed as he was exiting the facility and they stated that the value of the items taken was $1611.00.

CPD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying this individual.

Anyone with information or additional video footage is asked to please contact CPD Detective Howard at 931.648.0656, ext. 6662.

The post Clarksville Police Department trying to identify Theft of Property Suspect appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – The Clarksville Police Department worked a multiple-vehicle wreck with injuries on Edmondson Ferry Road and Ashland City Road (41A Bypass) today, Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023.

The crash occurred at approximately 1:00pm and involved three vehicles.

The southbound lanes of Ashland City Road were shut down and CPD asked motorists to avoid the area and find an alternate route until the scene was cleared.

The status of those injured is not available at this time but does not appear to be life-threatening.

The roadway is back open.

The post Clarksville Police Department reports Multiple Vehicle Wreck with Minor Injuries on Edmondson Ferry Road at Ashland City Road appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – For two separate weekends, one in March, and the other, in April, a parking lot adjoining Clarksville City Hall will be closed to the public, to mobilize cranes for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning work that is planned at City Hall.

The two weekends on the crane mobilization schedule for HVAC work are March 24th-26th, and April 28th-30th.

These dates are subject to change in the event of adverse weather conditions.

Active Energy Services will be conducting the work, with crane set-up on Fridays, lift work on Saturdays and Sundays, and break-down on Sundays.

Active Energy will remove the crane by start of business on both of the following Mondays in March and April.

The specific parking area that will be closed through the two weekend periods is the US Bank parking lot along Public Square at the corner of Public Square and Franklin Street.

Crews will be replacing the HVAC chiller pipe throughout City Hall.

The post Part of Public Square parking lot to close for two weekends for Crane Operations appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – Clarksville Christian School (CCS) will hold summer camps June 6th-30th, 2023.

CCS is excited to offer our camps again this year. CCS offers a variety of summer camps to keep your child busy this summer.

Registration is now open for rising 1st graders to rising 5th graders. Choose half-day or full-day camps from bugs to basketball.

Our camps are open to the community, so CCS invites you to share this with your family and friends.

For more information and to register visit www.clarksvillechristianschool.org/community/camp.cfm

About the Clarksville Christian School

Clarksville Christian School (CCS) is a private, Christian school founded in 2007. CCS serves students in grades PK-12 and has continued to experience significant growth along with Clarksville-Montgomery County.

For more information about Clarksville Christian School, please visit the CCS website at www.clarksvillechristianschool.org

The post Clarksville Christian School to hold Summer Camps June 6th-30th appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – Adults 50 and up can register now through April 30th for the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department’s 50 Plus Games. 

This year’s events will be held May 8th-13th at venues across Clarksville, including Crow Recreation Center, Swan Lake Sports Complex, Pinnacle Family Entertainment Center, D&D Black Light Mini Golf and Kenwood High School track. 

“The mission of the 50 Plus Games is to encourage participants 50 and over to maintain an active lifestyle and continue participation in sports and recreational activities through friendly, low-impact competition,” said Tina Boysha, Athletic Superintendent with Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department. 

Competitors will face off for bragging rights, as well as medals in over 20 events, to include horseshoes, table tennis, track and field, bowling, basketball free throw, pickleball, and 3D blacklight mini golf.  

Participants who register before April 21st qualify for the early bird rate of $25.00. The fee to register after April 21st is $30.00. The registration fee includes a welcome bag, dinner ticket and event t-shirt. 

50 Plus Games will begin with a reception at 11:30am Monday, May 8th at the Wilma Rudolph Event Center, 1188 Cumberland Drive. 

A closing dinner and awards ceremony will feature a “Disney” theme and will begin at 5:30pm Saturday, May 13th at the Wilma Rudolph Event Center. 

“We do this event every year and it’s so much fun. It’s a great opportunity to try new things. You don’t have to participate in every event, and there’s no experience required. Just come out, make friends and be active,” Boysha said. 

Volunteer scorekeepers are needed for each day of the competition. No experience is necessary. 

To register, volunteer, or to receive more information, please visit clarksvilleparksrec.com or contact Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department at 931.645.7476. As an alternative to online registration, paper registration forms are available at the Parks & Recreation Office at 102 Public Square or any City recreation center.  

50 Plus Games is presented by the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department and The Villages at the River Club. Other sponsors include Linda Love Insurance Services, Amerigroup, American Republic Insurance, Pinnacle Family Entertainment Center, Geico, and D&D Black Light Mini Golf.

About the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department

Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department provides a variety of indoor/outdoor programs, facilities, nature activities and entertainment events for people living in Clarksville, Montgomery County and Fort Campbell. These free or reasonably priced, year-round experiences help residents enhance their health, wellness, and social engagement — resulting in a stronger, better community.

The Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of recreational facilities and activities for all ages, maintains more than 700 acres of parks and facilities, provides 22 park facilities that offer a variety of amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails and pavilions or picnic shelters and maintains three community centers with year-round programming for youth, adults and seniors, as well as four public swimming pools

The Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department is located at 102 Public Square, Clarksville.

To learn more call 931.645.7476.

The post Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department announces 50 Plus Games to be held May 8th-13th appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.

Clarksville, TN – Basketball and art have driven Beth Rates since she was 5 years old. She recently seized the chance to unite her passions by designing an official game day graphic for the Chicago Bulls to celebrate Women’s History Month.

Rates currently works as a graphic designer for the Austin Peay State University (APSU) Public Relations and Marketing Department and graduated in 2017. She established herself as a key player for the women’s basketball team as a student, and her career total of 127 blocked shots remains the second-highest in program history.

“This was a surreal moment for me, because I grew up loving and playing basketball while also loving art and design,” Rates said. “Being able to put those two things together on such a huge platform for the Chicago Bulls was incredible, and there’s honestly not just one word to describe how amazing it felt.”

The Bulls commissioned seven artists for their Women’s History Month graphic series, including Rates. Her design was released across the team’s social media platforms on March 17 to promote a home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

“I was going back and forth about whether I wanted to do it, but I decided to just submit it and see how things went,” Rates said, noting that she learned about the campaign through Twitter. “I didn’t know if I’d get selected because there were thousands and thousands of people on that thread … but about two weeks later I got a phone call from one of the designers.”

Rates said she was provided with several photos, logos and assets for her design and asked to use her personal style. She decided to spotlight Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine because of his strong performance this season.

“My creative process was different than usual because I was nervous, and I knew this was going to be posted on huge platforms,” Rates said. “I sat and looked at some different sports design posters – which I do in my free time anyhow because I make a lot of edits with my favorite players – and put on some games. There were actually a lot of NBA games playing the week I did it, so I watched a lot of different matches and looked at designers on Twitter and Instagram to see what they were doing.”

Although Rates looked to posters and game footage to get inspired, her finished design came together through pure instinct.

“I knew I needed to keep it in my style as well, so I just sat down, got in my zone and started working,” she said. “There was no rhyme or reason to why I did what I did – it just felt right.”

After determining a theme and choosing the right logo, Rates in her design roughly a week before the game – and it wasn’t long until Bulls fans from around the world were seeing it.

“I couldn’t do anything but thank God, really,” Rates said. “This was such a blessing and such a huge platform. I called my parents immediately to tell them it was live, and they were so happy for me. My friends and coworkers were also really excited.”

Rates said her time as a design student at Austin Peay helped her develop the skills needed to create the graphic, and her job at the University has allowed her to keep improving.

“Even though they wanted me to be able to customize the graphic, the Chicago Bulls have a brand,” she said. “I’ve learned to work with a brand from being here at Austin Peay State University as an employee and as a student, so that made a huge difference.”
 
Being able to work on a variety of designs, from issues of the University’s alumni magazine to Candlelight Ball invitations, also prepared Rates to take on a project for the Bulls.  
 
“Austin Peay State University was definitely the reason that I was even able to do this,” she said. “I have coworkers and supervisors here that are so encouraging with all of my designs and let me go beyond my limits … having people like that in my corner gave me the confidence to be able to do something new and step out of my comfort zone.”

The post Austin Peay State University designer Beth Rates designs Chicago Bulls game day graphic series appeared first on Clarksville Online - Clarksville News, Sports, Events and Information.