UT Awarded More Than $1.7 Million for Nuclear Training Efforts

(KNOXVILLE, Tenn.) -- More than $1.7 million was awarded to the University of Tennessee for its nuclear industry training and research efforts, according to published reports.

The United States Department of Energy for scholarships, a fellowship and research grants donated the money as part of a nationwide program to boost nuclear energy efforts.

There were 46 colleges and universities across the nation that were awarded money under the Nuclear Energy University Program and Integrated University Program. UT students were awarded more scholarship money that any other institution, according to university officials.

Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio

New Website Launched Marks State Parks 75th Anniversary

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) -- The state's Department of Environment and Conservation has launched a new website to mark the 75th Anniversary of Tennessee State Parks.

The website -- which can be access by logging on to www.tnstateparks75.com -- features information on the State Parks' heritage and showcases the activities available to state park visitors, according to a news release by the department.

"Working with our partners at the Department of Tourist Development and Designsensory, Tennessee State Parks now has a new digital platform that engages citizens and visitors with a great new online experience," Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau said in a statement. "That experience is reflective of the exceptional natural, cultural and historical resources available at our 54 state parks."

Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio

Summitt to be Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom

(WASHINGTON) -- Former University of Tennessee women's basketball coach Pat Summitt will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House Tuesday afternoon, according to ABC affiliate WATE-TV.

Summitt, who was diagnosed with early onset dementia last year, stepped down as head coach in April and was replaced by her long-time assistant, Holly Warlick.  She still holds the title of head coach emeritus.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest honor a civilian can receive, and is awarded to people who have made significant contributions to the national interests of the U.S., according to the report. 

Summitt, who won eight national titles at Tennessee, will accept her medal from President Barack Obama.

Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio

Vols Football Player Dismissed from Team

(KNOXVILLE, Tenn.) -- University of Tennessee head football coach Derek Dooley announced Friday that tight end Cameron Clear has been dismissed from the team after being charged with theft of a laptop from a Tennessee Vols baseball player.

The sophomore is accused of stealing the laptop May 19 during the burglary of five Tennessee athletes' dorm room. Dooley said the dismissal is effective immediately.

"It hurts anytime a player is dismissed from the program, but there comes a time when a player's actions dictate that his privilege of being a part of this team should be removed," Dooley said in a statement released Friday. "We will continue to support Cam and his family to help him learn from his actions and become the person and player I believe he has the potential to be."

Clear was initially suspended indefinitely Wednesday while investigators gathered more evidence.

Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio

Tennesseans Warned About Health Insurance Scams

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) -- The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) is urging residents to make informed choices and avoid being swindled when buying health insurance.

Officials said scammers hit consumers by collecting premiums for bogus insurance policies with no intention of paying out claims.

"Companies that are not licensed by the state to sell insurance might lead consumers to think they are operating legitimately, all while attempting to evade state insurance regulations," TDCI Commissioner Julie McPeak said in a statement.

The department offered the following tips to consumers to avoid being scammed:

• Ask hard questions and do your homework. Always read all materials and scrutinize websites carefully.

• Treat ads for insurance via spam emails or blast fax with skepticism.

• Deal with reputable agents.

Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio