The Manchester PBA wants to clarify some incorrect statements recently made regarding the Manchester-Coffee County Conference Center (MCCCC) and clarify what the MCCCC has been doing to cut costs and improve the economic value to the City of Manchester taxpayers. Additionally, we feel that transparency and openness are important and want to address the questions that members of the community, including current and future customers have. As a result, a more detailed and comprehensive public statement is available at https://www.mcccc.com/press-release Just as importantly, we want to reassure all our current clients (holding more than 30 contracts currently secured for future bookings) that we are open for business. Please reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns.
At a recent Finance Committee meeting, the Finance Director was quoted as saying “Total expenses to date for just from January to May we have spent $225,021.41.” While we cannot speak for exactly where those numbers came from, the actual expenses the city reimbursed the Manchester PBA/MCCCC for January 2021 to May 2021 was $118,755.25 (the city allocated $25K/month for a total of $125K for this time period). It is possible that the $225K figure was based on the total for the past 11 months, which would include the city’s expenses for the old Coffee County PBA from July 2020 to Dec 2020 and the $118K reimbursed to the Manchester PBA. We believe this was an honest mistake of switching numbers or
misunderstanding the question. Since the question was reportedly what the city paid to the Manchester PBA/MCCCC for January to May, we understand the reaction that was generated by a number that was incorrect by over $106K. However, it did cause considerable damage to the reputation of the MCCCC among current and future customers, many of which have been concerned about their already booked meetings, weddings, and other events. Manchester PBA has NOT been over budget this year. In fact, the Conference Center has overachieved on monthly budgets from January to May 2021.
Also, the $39,078.72 figure quoted at the Finance Committee meeting includes money originally included in the $25K/month allocation the city approved for January to June. The Manchester PBA did not ask the city for an additional $39K over the original allocation. This is related to an SBA PPP loan. The city made a decision to reduce the monthly allocation for several months, despite previously instructing the Manchester PBA to submit invoices for the total $25K/month allocation. We hope to quickly resolve that issue with the city.
Members of Manchester PBA and MCCCC management have put considerable work into producing the Fiscal Year 2022 (July 2021 to June 2022) budget numbers to be as realistic as possible given the still uncertain projections about business activities as recovery from COVID continues to shape up. Part of that budget process was cutting out a lot of expenses that would be beneficial to goal of increasing traffic to the conference center but could not be justified given the economic uncertainty as we rebuild operations from the COVID related downturn. Also included in the FY22 budget was a payroll reduction. The Manchester PBA budget for FY22 that was submitted to the city was around $39K/month. The city approved an allocation of $29K/month.
The Manchester PBA will strive to come within the approved allocation set by the city through various means, but the Manchester PBA determined that it will realistically take an investment from the city of $39K/month to operate the MCCCC in FY22. If city funding for the MCCCC is not approved from a comprehensive budget, we will always appear over budget in the public’s eyes. MCCCC continues to explore grants and other avenues to reduce the costs of operations to the City of Manchester and its taxpayers. And we are hopeful that the reopening of the economy will improve the margins of the MCCCC so that the City of Manchester does not have to exceed their current allocation in FY22.
Please see the June 28th Manchester Times article “Conference center director briefs PBA on closing year” for more details about the activity at the Conference Center this year. MCCCC management has a presentation with additional information for any groups wishing to understand how the MCCCC generates positive economic impact to the Manchester area based on the State of Tennessee’s formulas and what we are doing to provide additional benefits to Manchester via work programs and in-kind contributions.
We continue to look forward to working with the City of Manchester to ensure that the MCCCC continues to provide an economic benefit to the city via bringing visitors from out of town for events and providing Manchester and surrounding Middle TN with a beautiful space for holding conferences, bridal events, seminars, meetings, and concert events. The MCCCC continues to book and hold events and the projected sales for the rest of 2021 are higher so far than originally projected as the economy opens back up, with some area businesses holding events recently that could not occur last year.
Manchester 4th of July celebration just a few days away
The 4th of July is just a few days away, and this is your reminder to head out to the Manchester Parks and Recreation 4th of July celebration. This year will include a performance from the band “7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience.” The performance will begin at 7 pm at the Rotary Park Amphitheater. Afterwards, there will be a firework show set to begin at 9 pm. Admission is free and concessions will be able to purchase at the event.
Motlow State to offer a concentration in Digital Agronomy
Beginning this Fall, Motlow State Community College will offer a concentration in Digital Agronomy as part of its current Associate of Applied Science Degree in Entrepreneurship.
“This new degree pathway is part of Motlow’s commitment to developing a new pipeline of agricultural professionals equipped to support the technology needs of today’s farmers,” said Dr. Melody Edmonds, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs at Motlow.
“Digital agronomy uses technology, such as drones, sensors and other monitors, and the data they provide to make informed decisions and recommendations to farmers,” added Stacy Dowd, an assistant professor and the Curriculum Chair for Natural Science at Motlow.
“Students will study conventional and regenerative agricultural practices, learn GIS mapping precision agriculture, and the latest in crop management and irrigation practices.”
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in Covington began a certification program in digital agronomy in 2019. In collaboration with TCAT, Motlow further allows TCAT students to transfer into a degree program.
“This is an exciting opportunity that will fuel the entrepreneurial spirit and technical skill sets needed to meet our region’s growing demands for skilled workers in middle Tennessee’s growing agriculture industry,” Edmonds said.
Motlow will recognize a student’s level of knowledge, either through industry-recognized certifications, prior learning assessments, or challenge exams. “This credit for prior learning means students can enter Motlow’s degree concentration in digital agronomy with fewer classes to complete,” explained Edmonds.
Motlow is recruiting new faculty leadership for this new pathway. Current openings can be found at Motlow’s website for employment opportunities. Position inquiries should be directed to: humanresources@mscc.edu.
“We have seen a lot of enthusiasm from students who are excited about the combination of entrepreneurial coursework and agriculture,” Edmonds said. “We’ve also received a resounding affirmation from leaders in the Middle Tennessee Nursery Association who have asked for us to collaborate with them to explore adding agricultural apprenticeship opportunities.”
To further expand the program, Motlow is also working with the Warren County School System to develop agriculture and drone pilot certification to help support remote crop management technology. The College is also working with Tennessee State University in Fayetteville to take students from certificates to apprenticeships and associate degrees to bachelor degrees and beyond.
“The A.A.S. in Entrepreneurship will provide students with the skills needed to start and successfully run their own business,” said Dowd.
Edmonds added, “Most of all, we want to prepare our students to be ag entrepreneurs of the future.”
College students receiving Pell Grants eligible for internet service money
College students receiving Pell Grants are eligible for a temporary federal program that provides 50-dollars per month, or 75-dollars in Tribal areas, to pay for internet service. Jessica Rosenworcel of the Federal Communications Commission says too many college students, especially those attending community colleges, lack access to affordable and high-quality internet. She says her organization is working with local partners across the country to make sure people know about the benefit and how to sign up.
To apply online, visit ‘GetEmergencyBroadband.org’, or call 833-511-0311 for a paper application. According to the F-C-C, more than three million people already have signed up for the program. A list of broadband resources also is available at the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s website.
Rosenworcel says the program is just the beginning of future efforts to address inequities in broadband access.
According to a report by the Institute for Higher Education Policy, approximately 60 percent of Black and Hispanic students face significant challenges in paying for fast and stable internet, compared with 50 percent of white students, according to the report. The report also includes data indicating student parents and caretakers are much more likely than their peers to share computers with others.
New laws to go into effect July 1st in Tennessee
Many new laws passed by Tennessee’s 112th General Assembly and signed by Governor Bill Lee, will take effect on July 1st. The list of laws are listed below:
Child Protection Laws
Evelyn’s Law: Parents in Tennessee must report missing children to law enforcement within 24 hours, or they could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. (Senate Bill 327)
Eli’s Law: The new law requires that the court be alerted about any child born to parents who have had another child removed from their custody.(Senate Bill 867)
Child Exposure to Dangerous Drugs: This bill expands on the “Severe Child Abuse” law. It increases the penalty against individuals who knowingly expose children to illegal drugs like meth, fentanyl, and cocaine. (Senate Bill 1530)
Child Neglect and Endangerment: The new law also includes harsher penalties for anyone who places a child in imminent danger of death, bodily injury, or physical or mental impairment – like exposing them to dangerous drugs. Offenders would face a Class A misdemeanor, but if the child is 8 or younger, then the penalty is a Class D felony. (Senate Bill 1951)
Child Rape Sentencing: If someone is convicted of the facilitation of rape of a child or aggravated rape of a child, then the new law requires them to serve 100% of the sentence imposed, minus a maximum of 15% credit. It also adds community supervision for life. (Senate Bill 628)
Human Trafficking Laws
Safe Home for Trafficked Children: Under this law, police are required to notify the Department of Children’s Services when a minor is taken into custody on suspected prostitution charges. The DCS will place the child in a safe place that will help them recover from abusive trafficking. (Senate Bill 214)
Trafficking Victims Self Defense: The new law gives considerations to victims of human trafficking who use force that may result in serious bodily injury or death – even if they are engaged in illegal activity. The victim must prove they are a victim of human trafficking in order to use force when they had a reasonable belief of a threat that would result in serious bodily injury or death. (Senate Bill 188)
Commercial Sex Trafficking: The bill is aimed at combating human trafficking by removing the statute of limitations for any offenses committed against a child on or after July 1, 2021. (Senate Bill 1115)
Sex Trafficking Sentencing: The law adds convicted traffickers to the category of sexual predators who are not eligible for early parole or release. (Senate Bill 1122)
Truth in Sentencing: The new law ensures certain violent or sexual offenders serve all of their sentence imposed by a judge or jury. The law aims to protect victims and their families. (Senate Bill 717)
Gun Laws
Permitless Carry: The law allows Tennesseans ages 21 and over and military members over the age of 18 to carry open or concealed handguns without a permit and also increases punishments for gun-related crimes. The new permitless carry law will also implement stronger penalties for criminals who steal guns or get them illegally. Those who carry without a permit must have no felony convictions, pending charges. Those suspected of stealing a firearm face up to a Class E felony and tougher sentencing. (Senate Bill 765)
Firing a Gun from a Vehicle Sentencing: The new law classifies the offense of reckless endangerment by discharging a firearm from within a motor vehicle as a Class C felony. (Senate Bill 1373)
Theft Laws
Porch Pirates: The new law allows for stiffer punishment against repeat offenders who steal packages left in mailboxes or doorsteps. The first offense is punishable based on the value of the stolen item. Subsequent offenses of mail theft can be charged at least as a Class E felony. (Senate Bill 1121)
Catalytic Converter Theft: Under this new law anyone who buys a catalytic converter that’s unattached must be registered as a scrap metal dealer in a fixed location and must be able to track purchases. Anyone selling a detached catalytic converter must provide identification/documentation. Senate Bill 1612
Laws that Increase Penalties
Drag Racing: The new law is aimed at stopping drag racing. It increases the penalty from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor. (Senate Bill 14)
Spencer Bristol Act: The new law not only increases protection for police officers but also, increases penalties for criminals who evade arrest. The bill is named after Hendersonville Master Patrol Officer Spencer Bristol, who was hit and killed in 2019 while running after a suspect. The penalty has been increased to a Class C felony if evading arrest results in serious bodily injury of an officer. If an officer is killed, then the penalty is increased to a Class A felony. (Senate Bill 129)
Aggravated Riots: The law increases the minimum sentence from 45 to 60 days if a person commits more than one aggravating circumstance. It also extends the offense to rioters who travel from out of state and has intent to commit a criminal offense or is being compensated. (Senate Bill 451)
Boating Under the Influence: Under this law, the consequences of BUI rises to be consistent with penalties associated with driving under the influence, DUI. (Senate Bill 246)
“Bathroom Bill” Laws
Tennessee Accommodations for All Children: The new law requires schools to try to offer a single-occupancy or employee facility for anyone who wants more privacy, but it specifically bars letting transgender people use multi-person facilities that don’t align with their sex at birth. (Senate Bill 1367)
Transgender Public Restrooms: The law makes Tennessee the first state in the U.S. to require businesses and government facilities open to the public to post a sign if they let transgender people use multi-person bathrooms, locker rooms, or changing rooms associated with their gender identity. (Senate Bill 1224)
Education Laws
Safe Stars Act: The bill creates health standards and metrics to improve student-athlete safety. It also aims to prevent cardiac arrest and concussions. (Senate Bill 1259)
Student’s Right to Know Act: The new legislation requires Tennessee Higher Education Commission to create a web-based dashboard for students considering college and career options. The dashboard will include education cost options and expected occupation wages. (Senate Bill 1521)
HOPE Scholarship: The new law extends eligibility to homeschool students who want to apply for HOPE Scholarships. (Senate Bill 458)
Child Care Laws
Adoption Health Check: The law requires adoptive parents who receive subsidies to provide DCS with medical or school records in order to get a health check. If they fail to do so, the law allows DCS to initiate a face-to-face visit. This follows the deaths of two children in Roane County police believe were buried for several years. The adoptive parents continued receiving benefits after their deaths. (Senate Bill 270)
Child Care Task Force: The bill creates a task force designed to come up with a strategic plan that addresses the challenges of providing high-quality affordable child care. (Senate Bill 677)
Child Care Report Card: Another law makes several changes to the Child Care Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS). The new assessment toll weaves quality indicators into licensing rules so that there is a seamless system for parents and providers to navigate. (Senate Bill 749)
Miscellaneous Laws
TN Business Fairness Act: The new law comes from the COVID-19 recovery efforts. It puts small businesses on the same playing field as bigger competitors when there’s a declared state of emergency so businesses are not forced to close. (Senate Bill 474)
Criminal Justice Reform: The bill primarily focuses on launching a task force that will work to find alternatives to incarceration like the use of Recovery Courts and felony probation. (Senate Bill 767)
Animal Cruelty: A new law removes barriers in order to prosecute aggravated animal cruelty cases in Tennessee. The law no longer requires prosecutors to prove the act was done in a “depraved or sadistic manner.” (Senate Bill 166)
Unborn Child Dignity Act: The law requires any child surgically aborted to receive a proper burial or cremation. (Senate Bill 828)
Tractor Lemon Law: The legislation helps farmers when it comes to replacing or refunding farm machinery. The law requires manufacturers to cover any repair or costs, replacement, or refund that are not the result of the normal wear and tear of equipment. (Senate Bill 831)
Film and Animation: The new law makes way for more incentives for film productions to do business in Tennessee. (Senate Bill 736)
To find everything passed during Tennessee’s 112th General Assembly, click here.
2 people injured, and one in custody after a shooting in Monteagle
At approximately 4:48 p.m. on June 28th, Sheriff’s deputies and officers from the Monteagle and Tracy City Police Department responded to a shooting call at 288 Armory Road, in Monteagle.
When officers arrived, they found Yancie Dee Layne (72) with a severe shot gun wound to the right arm. An off-duty Jasper Police Officer was treating Layne who had fled outside to get help.
Moments after Monteagle Police arrived, officers encountered the shooter Yancie DeWayne Layne (49) from Cookeville and took him into custody without incident.
Upon entering the home, officers found a 16-year-old male juvenile that had been shot in the right upper abdomen and lower chest. Officers administered life saving measures until Grundy EMS arrived.
Sheriff’s investigators are still working to piece together the events that led to the incident.
Yancie DeWayne Layne (49) has been charged with two counts of attempted first degree murder and one count of aggravated assault. He is the son of victim Yancie Dee Layne.
Both victims are in critical condition at an area hospital. A bond hearing will be set on June 30th.
Tennessee National Guard heads to Texas for the summer for training
Nearly 3,000 Soldiers from the Tennessee Army National Guard are headed to Fort Hood, Texas, this summer for a training exercise as part of their Annual Training.
Soldiers from the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 230th Sustainment Brigade, and 30th Troop Command will spend roughly three weeks in July enhancing their war-fighter skills while being evaluated on their performance during high-stress conditions. The exercise, known as the eXportable Combat Training Capability, is designed to test units with realistic deployment scenarios while operating in an austere desert environment.
“We are excited about conducting this collective training event,” said Col. Steven Turner, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment Commander. “Even though we had a large portion of the Regiment deployed between 2018 and 2020, this is the largest training event that we’ve conducted since our National Training Center rotation in the summer of 2018.”
The 278th is headquartered in Knoxville, the 230th is headquartered in Chattanooga and the 30th is headquartered in Tullahoma. All the units are comprised of citizen-Soldiers from across the state, most of which have been a part of Tennessee’s ongoing COVID-19 operation.
“I’m putting on a different hat now for this training. Before, I was fighting against a virus and helping in the community; now I’ll be using those skills I’ve gained and applying them at XCTC, helping my brothers and sisters around me,” said Pfc. William Orton, a cavalry scout with 4th Squadron, 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment, based in Newport. “I feel very confident about transitioning from the COVID-19 mission to my original duty as a scout.”
XCTC provides an environment for units to hone in on their combat skills while simultaneously working together, enhancing their lethality as a unified fighting force.
“I am excited to get out there and watch our Soldiers, who continued to train and prepare for this event despite the challenges of COVID-19, continue to build readiness and improve their Soldier skills,” said Turner.
TDOT to suspend construction-related lane closures for 4th of July weekend
Road construction won’t slow motorists across Tennessee over the July 4 holiday. The Tennessee Department of Transportation will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstates and state routes beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, July 2 through 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 6to provide maximum roadway capacity for holiday travelers.
According to AAA, more than 47 million Americans will travel for the holiday, and 91% of them will drive to their destination. This will be the second-highest Independence Day travel volume on record, trailing only 2019.
“It is estimated that 939,000 motorists will travel Tennessee’s interstates and state routes this July 4 holiday,” TDOT Commissioner Clay Bright said. “To help motorists reach their destinations safely and without unnecessary delays, we are suspending lane closures during this holiday travel time.”
Motorists will still encounter some long-term lane closures on construction projects. While lane closure activity will be stopped, workers may be on-site in zones, and reduced speed limits in work zones will still be in effect. Drivers convicted of speeding through work zones where workers are present face a fine of $250 to $500, plus court fees and possible increased insurance premiums.
From your desktop or mobile device, get the latest construction activity and live streaming SmartWay traffic cameras at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. Travelers can also dial 511 from any landline or cellular phone for travel information or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TN511 for statewide travel. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.
Street in Tullahoma to be re-named
The City of Tullahoma Board of Mayor and Alderman voted on Monday June 14, 2021, to rename West Hogan Street as Joe Moon Way. Mr. Moon is a former Tullahoma Parks and Recreation Director with forty years of service as a city employee. In July 2016, Mr. Moon was killed in a car accident.
City officials are hosting a dedication ceremony on Wednesday July 14, 2021, at 10:00 AM on Joe Moon Way. After the ceremony, attendees will be invited inside D. W. Wilson Community Center to attend a reception with refreshments courtesy of London’s. The public is invited to attend and celebrate the life of Mr. Moon.
Jehovah’s Witnesses Summer Bible Convention – Virtual For 2nd Year
Jehovah’s Witnesses Hold Global Virtual Event in 240 Lands, 500+ Languages Breaking a century-old tradition in the name of health and safety, the largest convention organization in the world has moved its annual in-person event to a virtual format for the second time in as many years, cancelling nearly 6,000 conventions in 240 lands.
For 24 consecutive years, the summers in the Chattanooga (Nashville) area have featured Jehovah’s Witnesses streaming into nearby venues to take over hotels and fill restaurants as they held their conventions at the Memorial Auditorium (Von Braun Auditorium, Huntsville AL.), or more recently, in places like Dalton, GA. In 2020, the pandemic unexpectedly interrupted that tradition moving the international religious organization to cancel in-person conventions throughout the world and launch a global virtual event. This was a first for Jehovah’s Witnesses, who have held public conventions in stadiums, arenas, convention centers, and theaters around the world since 1897.
“Powerful by Faith!” is the theme of the 2021 global event, which will be delivered in more than 500 languages to households throughout the globe over six weekends during July and August 2021, uniting some 15-20 million people in 240 countries. Since the convention is typically held from Friday through Sunday, the program will be available in six installments corresponding to morning and afternoon sessions. “Friday” morning’s session will be available for streaming or download beginning June 28, 2021.
Shauna Whited of Chattanooga, TN comments, “My husband and I are looking forward to the convention this year, even though it is virtual. We always gain so much encouragement and practical advice from the program. It’s one of the highlights of our year.”
The continued risk of bringing thousands of people together in cities around the world prompted the organization to opt for a virtual platform for the second consecutive year.
However, the move has not curbed the enthusiasm for the annual event. Congregations around the world are inviting the public to join them in this historic occasion.
“Faith has helped our global brotherhood to continue to thrive even during a pandemic,” said Robert Hendriks for Jehovah’s Witnesses. “Our faith will continue to unite us in worship – even virtually – as millions gather in private homes around the world to enjoy a powerful and inspiring spiritual program.”
All are invited to attend the event by going to JW.ORG on the web or JW Broadcasting on the free JW Library iOs or Android App, or on streaming platforms like ROKU TV, Apple TV, and others. The program is free and accessible to all. The schedule for download and global streaming is listed below.
For more information, please contact Jehovah’s Witnesses United States at (718) 560-5600 or pid@jw.org.
