WCTE presents ‘Tennessee Tornado: Putnam Strong’ and ‘Virtual Town Hall: Conversation on Healing’

COOKEVILLE – WCTE PBS will premiere “Tennessee Tornado: Putnam Strong” and “Virtual Town Hall: Conversation on Healing” via broadcast on its main channel and via stream on WCTE’s Facebook and at wcte.org on Thursday, May 28 at 7 p.m. 

“WCTE has partnered with Independent Producer, Daniel Duarte, during these challenging times to help tell the story of the devastating tornado that hit our community in the early hours of March 3,” said Brent Clark, WCTE director of content & digital media.

This documentary, hosted by award winning journalist Demetria Kalodimos, will feature the stories of courage, love, compassion and survival. The final moments of the film will remember those who lost their lives in the storm.

“I am so grateful that Daniel took this project on and made it a labor of love for him and our entire team,” said Becky Magura, WCTE president and CEO. “Also, to have Demetria host this is special for all of us. She deeply cares about our community, and this film will shine a light on the strength of our people, elected leaders, first responders, volunteers and all who survived. While we can’t bring back those we loved and lost, we can honor and remember them.” 

Immediately following the documentary will be a “Virtual Town Hall: Conversation on Healing,” hosted by Magura live from the Putnam County Emergency Operations Center at 8 p.m. Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter and Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton, along with special guests, will discuss the community response during this time of crisis.


This live broadcast and stream will be available on WCTE’s main channel, Facebook page and www.wcte.org. Viewers will be able to ask questions by calling in to WCTE at 931-528-2222 or via WCTE’s Facebook page. 

One on One with Becky Magura” featuring Mayor Porter and Mayor Shelton will follow the Virtual Town Hall and air starting at 9 p.m. From one neighbor to another, WCTE PBS is here for you.

Funding for “Tennessee Tornado: Putnam Strong” was provided by Henry and Monika Bowman, Mike and Rhonda Galligan and Town and Country Overhead Doors. 

WCTE has served the Upper Cumberland for 40+ years as the region’s premier storyteller and is the only television station in a 75-mile radius of Cookeville. WCTE is a proud strategic partner with educators, health services, government, arts and music organizations across the Upper Cumberland. WCTE is a 501-(c) 3 and is owned and operated by the Upper Cumberland Broadcast Council. WCTE is one of only 350 PBS member stations nationwide. 

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