“The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has been and is dealing with inmates and employees that have been exposed to the COVID 19 virus. On July 17th, 2021 it was determined that the jail had 38 inmates that were positive for the COVID 19 virus. At the inception of the problem, jail staff and the jail physician put into place all approved and required CDC guidelines and protocols for combating the COVID 19 virus. Quarantine and medical treatment are just two of the guidelines being used to insure the safety of non-infected persons and the care of positive patients are the top priority. All inmates testing positive for the virus are receiving optimal medical care and to date no one has required to be hospitalized. Also, 10 inmates returned to work July 29th, 2021 after a negative COVID Test after going through the protocols put in place. The corrections and medical staff will continue to implement all proper and required guidelines and policies to combat the spread of the virus. Deputies and staff are also following policies and guidelines to minimize the need for citizens to enter the jail. Any business that can be conducted in the parking lot by a deputy will be done that way. If anyone needs a deputy to come to their residence or respond to a public need of course that service is still being provided. Any inquiries about the jail or policies and practices may contact the public information office at 931-962-0123 (Sgt. Chris Guess).”
Manchester Police Department search for subject(s)
The Manchester Police Department is looking for unknown subject(s) involved with a robbery on Saturday July 24th. The individual(s) forced their way into a business on Lincoln Street and stole approximately $10,000 worth of property including, a trailer with an attached welder, and possibly more items.
If you recognize the vehicle in the picture, or have any knowledge about this crime, you are asked to contact Investigator Jamie Norris or Investigator Trey Adcock at 931-728-2099.
Gov. Bill Lee bring sued over decision to pull out of federal unemployment benefits
Governor Bill Lee is being sued over his decision to pull out of federal unemployment benefit programs for Tennesseans.
Seven Tennesseans said this week that they struggle to survive even with the unemployment funds while they look for work.
Lee announced the withdraw from unemployment programs in May that would opt out of funds that pay unemployed Tennesseans an additional $300 per week as wall as an additional $100 weekly benefits for mixed earners.
In the suit, the unemployed individuals say that they have submitted many applications to jobs, most without receiving any responses.
They have asked the court to instruct Governor Lee to reverse his earlier decision and re-enter the pandemic unemployment programs.
Ag Tag Breaks Record on 25th Birthday
Tennessee’s Ag Tag license plate hit the streets 25 years ago and thanks to citizens who support agriculture in this way, 2021 has been a record-breaking year.
For this fiscal year, sales of the specialty license plate raised $487,000 to support Tennessee’s agricultural community with a focus on agricultural development and youth. The Ag Tag became available in 1996 and since then, $7.3 million has been gifted. Contributions include $55,000 each year to FFA, 4-H, and the Governor’s School for the Agricultural Sciences. Ag in the Classroom receives $65,000 annually.
“The Ag Tag with its recognizable red barn is more than a symbol,” Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. said. “The license plate has a real impact on agricultural programs for young people and for local farmers. When you put the Ag Tag on your vehicle, you are helping sustain agricultural and forestry development and leadership programs. The red barn conveys Tennessee’s rural heritage and the value we place on farming families.”
Programs to connect consumers with farm-direct products through farmers markets and restaurants that source local ingredients have also been launched with Ag Tag proceeds.
The Ag Tag idea was sparked by Tennessee Department of Agriculture staff members. “We wanted to recognize Tennessee’s agriculture heroes and contribute to the ag community,” Assistant Commissioner for Business Development Keith Harrison said. “That discussion resulted in the iconic red barn that inspired the Ag Tag and the Pick Tennessee Products logo,” Harrison said. “It’s rewarding to see after more than two decades that the Ag Tag supplies the next generation of farmers with valuable tools.”
The specialty plate is available via the MyTN app or from your county clerk. A list of MyTN services and download information can be found at www.tn.gov/mytn.html. For just $35 added to your county tag purchase or renewal, you can support farms and programs that strengthen Tennessee’s rural economies. Your county clerk can exchange your current license plate for Tennessee’s Ag Tag. Time remaining on any current registration will be credited to the new tag.
Funds collected from Ag Tag sales are administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture through the Tennessee Agricultural Development Fund to directly benefit agricultural youth organizations, agricultural and forestry awareness, education and marketing efforts, and support for farmers markets.
Coffee County Schools release statement regarding upcoming school year
Coffee County Schools will welcome students back into the classroom on August 2nd with their 2 hour day and August 4th with their first official full day of school.
With a new school year comes more recommendations to keep your child safe from Covid-19.
To reduce the spread, Coffee County Schools will practice the following precautions:
– Masks are recommended but not required.
– Every attempt will be made to social distance if space allows.
– Visitors will be allowed for educational purposes only, but some restrictions will be in place.
– Handwashing and sanitizing will still be strongly encouraged.
– Frequent cleaning of common areas will continue.
– Increased air flow and filtration will continue.
– Athletic events will continue to follow TSSAA protocols.
Coffee County Schools will continue to monitor the number of cases in the district and make decisions based on what is safest for students in classrooms. Coffee County Schools are excited for this upcoming school year.
AAA gives tips for high temps
With forecasts predicting temperatures in the 90’s for portions of the state, AAA is urging motorists to keep their children, pets and vehicles safe during what is expected to be some of the hottest weather so far this summer.
“In just 10 minutes, a car can heat up by 20 degrees and become deadly,” said Megan Cooper, spokesperson, AAA – The Auto Club Group.”We are urging parents and caregivers to not underestimate the risks that excessive heat can pose and to understand that hot car deaths are preventable.”
In 2018 and 2019 the nation saw a record number of hot car deaths – 53 child fatalities each year. According to NoHeatstroke.org, these are the highest yearly totals in at least 20 years. Despite warnings from safety organizations each year, children continue to die from this preventable tragedy.
AAA-The Auto Club Group provides the following safety tips to help keep children safe:
· Don’t Leave Children Alone, Even for Short Amounts of Time – Never leave children unattended in a vehicle – even if the windows are open or the air conditioning is running.
· Teach Children That Vehicles Are Not Play Areas – Don’t let children play in an unattended vehicle. Teach your children that a vehicle is not an appropriate hiding spot in hide-and-seek.
· Keep Your Vehicle Locked – lock your vehicle doors and trunk even in driveways and garages, and keep keys out of children’s reach.
· Make it a Habit to Check Your Vehicle– Before locking your vehicle and walking away, make it a habit to always check the front and back seats.
· Create Caregiver Reminders – If you normally drop your child off at a babysitter or daycare, ask the caregiver to call you if your child doesn’t show up as expected.
· Add Reminders in Your Vehicle- Put your purse, wallet or cell phone in the back seat. This way, you are reminded to look in the back seat before leaving the vehicle. You can also keep a stuffed animal in your child’s car seat. When the child is with you, move it to the front seat as a reminder that your child is in the back.
· Call for Help – If you see a child or pet alone in a locked car, call 911 immediately and follow the instructions of emergency personnel.
The soaring temperatures in a vehicle can also place your pets at risk. Never leave an animal in a parked car, even if the windows are partially open. Even on pleasant days, your vehicle can quickly reach a temperature that puts your pet in danger.
Extreme heat can also pose risks to your vehicle. AAA recommends drivers check these five key areas to help their vehicle safely survive higher temperatures:
1. Battery
· Securely mount the battery in place to minimize vibration.
· Clean any corrosive build up from the battery terminals and cable clamps.
· Ensure the clamps are tight enough that they will not move.
· If a car’s battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested by a trained technician to determine how much longer it will last.
· The test can be performed at any AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, or AAA members can request a AAA Mobile Battery Service battery free of charge.
2. Engine Coolant
· Have the system flushed and the coolant replaced periodically as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
· Consult the owner’s manual to determine the service interval appropriate for a vehicle.
· Inspect hoses and drive belts for cracking, soft spots or other signs of poor condition.
· Replace worn parts.
3. Tires
· Check tires when the car has not been driven recently.
· Inflate tires to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer—not the number molded into the tire sidewall.
· Inspect the tire treads for adequate depth and any signs of uneven wear that might indicate a suspension or alignment problem.
4. Engine Fluids
· Check all vehicle fluids including motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid to ensure they are filled to the appropriate levels.
· If any fluids need to be topped off, be sure to use the type of fluid specified in the owner’s manual.
5. Air Conditioning
· Maintain a comfortable driving environment to reduce fatigue and increase driver alertness for increased vehicle safety.
· Have the air conditioning system checked by a certified technician.
Be Prepared for Summer Breakdowns
Even with proper preventive maintenance, summer breakdowns can still occur. AAA recommends every driver have a well-stocked emergency kit in their vehicle. The kit should include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.
Drivers who find themselves stranded can reach AAA by calling or texting “HELP” to 1-800-AAA-HELP.
TDH, Communities Participating In Red Sand Project To Raise Awareness Of Human Trafficking
The Tennessee Department of Health and community partners across the state join together for the third consecutive year to participate in the Red Sand Project during Human Trafficking Awareness Week, recognized July 26-31, 2021.
The Red Sand Project is a participatory art installment designed to shed light on human trafficking. The red sand is used to draw attention to the human trafficking victims that fall through the cracks of our society every day. Although Tennessee has been nationally acknowledged for our continuous efforts and improvements, human trafficking continues to remain a major public health concern in our communities. In 2019, the National Human Trafficking Hotline identified 11,500 trafficking situations, with 180 cases reported in Tennessee.
Counties across the state will be participating in the Red Sand Project by pouring natural, nontoxic red sand in sidewalk cracks, creating yard signs, and many other creative demonstrations throughout their communities. To find a Red Sand Project event near you, please reach out to your local health department or visit your local Welcome Center.
“Addressing human trafficking is a priority in Tennessee,” said Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey, MD, MBA, FAAP. “It is important we raise awareness of human trafficking through initiatives such as this because victims can experience significant trauma that has lasting impacts on them and their families.”
According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, human trafficking is a demand-driven crime that involves exploiting a person for labor, services, or commercial sex acts, particularly targeting women and children. Human Trafficking is also one of the fastest growing criminal
industries in the country, with cases reported in all 50 states.
“Human trafficking must be stopped,” said Tennessee Department of Health Family Health and Wellness Division Deputy Medical Director Denise Werner, MD. “By increasing awareness of this hidden crime that can happen in our own communities Tennesseans can make a difference
in the lives of victims of human trafficking.”
If you know someone who needs help to escape trafficking, contact the Tennessee Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-855-558-6484.
If you suspect you have come into contact with a victim of human trafficking, you may call the National Human Trafficking Hotlineat 1-888-373-7888 or text 233722. Hotline staff members will identify resources in your community. For more information on humantrafficking and the hotline, visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org/.
Learn more about the Red Sand Project at https://redsandproject.org/.
The mission of the Tennessee Department of Health is to protect, promote and improve the health and prosperity of people in Tennessee. Learn more about TDH services and programs at www.tn.gov/health.
Connect with TDH on Facebook, Twitter andLinkedIn@TNDeptofHealth
Plane crash in Bedford County
According to WSMV in Nashville, a small plane crashed in Bedford County near Unionville on Tuesday evening according to the county’s 911 director.
Director Phillip Noel told News4 that an ultralight aircraft had two people on board when it went down in a field on Hopkins Bridge Road in Unionville.
One is reported with minor injuries while the other passenger had to be flown to an undisclosed hospital.
Noel added that no one on the ground was injured in the crash and that the plane landed in a field near a tree line.
Tennessee sales tax holiday to begin this weekend
Tennessee’s annual tax-free holiday is coming up this weekend, and some new items will be going tax-free this year. The Tennessee General Assembly has approved for gun safes and safety equipment to be included in this holiday, as well as food, ingredients, and prepared food, to be included in the tax-free holiday.
Tennessee’s traditional sales tax holiday on clothing, school supplies, and computers will begin at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 30th and will end at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 1st.
The sales tax holiday on food, food ingredients, and prepared food will begin at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 30thand will end at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, August 5th.
The sales tax holiday on gun safes and safety equipment began at 12:01 a.m. on July 1st and will end at 11:59 p.m. on June 30th, 2022.
For more information on the tax-free holiday, visit https://www.tn.gov/revenue/taxes/sales-and-use-tax/sales-tax-holiday.html
Tennessee Counties to undergo redistricting
Tennessee’s 95 counties are expected to undergo redistricting once they’ve received 2020 Census county-level population data this fall, and civic groups across the state say public interest in the redistricting process is increasing. Redistricting Counsel at the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program Yurij Rudensky says state lawmakers call the shots on how to divvy up the districts. Rudensky recently spoke at a virtual meeting on fair representation hosted by the Tennessee League of Women Voters.
The League and other civic groups argue that counties have no clear criteria for map drawing or fair representation, and say that despite steps to better inform the public, such as an online redistricting guide created by the state comptroller’s office, there are few opportunities for residents to view drafts of state legislative and congressional maps or give timely input.
Population flight in rural West Tennessee combined with major urban growth in cities such as Nashville are expected to trigger significant shifts in the state’s legislative districts. Republicans already hold seven of nine Tennessee congressional districts, and some experts say redistricting could help Republicans gain another seat in Congress and erode national Democratic control. Rudensky says the Brennan Center’s 50-state guide to redistricting can help residents parse out an otherwise complicated process that he says is unlikely to change in the near future.
According to the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury’s office, U.S. Census numbers aren’t expected to be prepared until September because of federal delays, making it a challenge to forecast how districts will be drawn at the congressional and legislative levels based on the state’s population trends.
