Gas prices across Tennessee jumped nearly 18 cents over last week in response to the recent Colonial Pipeline shutdown that led to a deluge of demand for gasoline as well as tight gasoline supply across the Southeast. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.89 which is 19 cents more than one month ago and $1.27 more than one year ago.
“The Southeast will continue to experience tight supply this week as terminals and gas stations are refueled,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Over the weekend, gas prices started to stabilize, but are expected to fluctuate in the lead up to Memorial Day weekend.”
Quick Facts
· 87% of Tennessee gas stations have prices below $3.00
· The lowest 10% of pump prices are $2.67 for regular unleaded
· The highest 10% of pump prices are $3.18 for regular unleaded
National Gas Prices
The national gas price average is the most expensive in six years at $3.04. Gas prices were expected to flirt with $3/gallon leading up to Memorial Day weekend, but last week’s shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline caused prices to spike weeks ahead of the holiday.
On the week, the national average jumped eight cents. States like Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, where the gasoline supply was strained due to the pipeline shutdown, saw prices jump as much as 21 cents in matter of days. With the pipeline back in operation and supply being restored, gas prices in these states and the national average have stabilized since the end of last week.
AAA forecasts 34 million Americans to take a road trip 50 miles or more from home from May 27 to May 31 to celebrate the unofficial kickoff to summer. That is a 52% increase compared to last summer, but nearly 9% below pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Regardless, motorists will be met with the most expensive gas prices since 2014.
“This is going to be an expensive summer for motorists. However, we do not expect it to deter travelers from hitting the road. AAA finds that despite the higher pump prices, Americans still take their road trips but just may not travel as far as originally planned, or go to their planned destination and spend a little less,” added Cooper.
Crude oil prices and gasoline demand will be two large factors in determining how expensive gas prices will go.
National Oil Market Dynamics
At the close of Friday’s formal trading session, WTI increased by $1.55 to settle at $65.37. Market optimism that crude demand will recover, despite an uptick in coronavirus infection rates in some countries, helped to lift prices last week. Prices could continue to climb this week if the market remains optimistic as vaccines continue to roll out. Additionally, prices increased after the Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) latest weekly report revealed that total domestic crude oil inventory decreased by 400,000 bbl to 484.7 million bbl. If EIA’s next report shows another decrease in total domestic crude supply, crude prices could increase further.
MTSU Grad Studies waives admission tests, offers $1 application fee for unlimited number of prospective students
After a record increase in enrollment this fall, MTSU’s College of Graduate Studies wants prospective students seeking an advanced degree or training to take advantage of a $1 application fee and admission test waiver once again for approved programs.
“Starting the journey toward graduate school can be intimidating at first,” said Dawn McCormack, associate dean of the College of Graduate Studies. “With our $1 application fee, we are making that process a little easier. The CGS staff is here to help people find their perfect graduate program match and to start down the path to achieving their educational dreams.”
Whether seeking to continue their academic journey, advance professionally or perhaps even make a career change, those interested in pursuing graduate school can start their application journey here.
Sarah Hendrix, manager of strategic communications for the graduate school, said that applicants who took advantage of the promotion the previous year have been successful in their studies, so the school wanted to extend the offer again for 2021 and to eliminate a capacity limit for the promotion this time around.
“There is no limit to how many students can apply using the $1 application,” Hendrix said. “This is a limited time offer, so applying as soon as possible is important.
“For International Graduate applicants, if you participate in an upcoming webinar, we will refund you $34 of the $35 application fee after receiving your application.”
International applicants can access the webinar here.
The promotion applies for admission to the summer and fall 2021 semesters. The list of approved programs for the admission test waiver is growing, Hendrix said, and can be found here.
The graduate school offers a variety of options for those interested in pursuing further education.
“(Options range) from taking courses as a non-degree student to earning certificates, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees,” McCormack said. “Students can also select from online or on-ground programs, depending on their preferences.”
It is also a well-established university that maintains a small-community feel.
“This is the type of place where graduate students can come study in high-quality programs with faculty who care about their success,” McCormack said.
Complete the application process as soon as possible to take advantage of this promotion.
For more information, call 615-898-2840 or email askgrad@mtsu.edu.
Multiple pathways at Motlow lead to high-paying jobs in mechatronics
Motlow State established itself as a statewide leader in Mechatronics over a decade ago. Through partnerships with area universities and Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCAT), Motlow has established multiple pathways that lead to high-paying jobs in Mechatronics.
Whether you are a high school sophomore, a recent high school graduate, or an adult looking to start a new career or advancement, many of the pathway options begin with little or no tuition costs. Mechatronics is a high-wage, high-demand program that prepares graduates for a career in fields such as automotive, power production, manufacturing, robotics, and more. Motlow offers Mechatronics degrees on its Fayetteville, McMinnville, and Smyrna campuses.
Pathway Options:
• High School Dual Enrollment students can earn a Certificate or an Associate of Applied
Science degree before graduating from high school
• TCAT graduates can seamlessly transfer to Motlow and earn a Certificate and an A.A.S.
degree
• Traditional students can use the Tennessee Promise grant to earn a Certificate and an A.A.S.
degree
• Non-traditional students can use the Tennessee Reconnect grant to earn a Certificate and an
A.A.S. degree
Regardless of how you begin your Mechatronics journey, you can earn up to $45,000 per year with a Motlow Mechatronics Certificate and successful completion of the Siemens Level 1 exam. Graduates who complete the A.A.S. and the Siemens Level 2 Exam can expect to earn up to $65,000 per year.
Advanced Degree Options
After completing the A.A.S. degree, students can take advantage of Motlow’s partnerships with Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), Tennessee State University (TSU), or University of Tennessee Chattanoogs (UTM) to earn bachelor’s degrees.
Bachelor’s Degree Options:
MTSU – Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Engineering
• UTC – Bachelor of Science in Mechatronics Technology
• TSU – Bachelor of Science in Applied Industrial Technologies (at Motlow’s McMinnville
campus)
Graduates of any of the bachelor’s degree options can expect to earn up to $90,000 per year. Graduates of the TSU bachelor’s degree have an additional opportunity to earn a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering with an Engineering Management Concentration at the University of Tennessee Space Institute in Tullahoma.
The ATMAE certified Motlow Mechatronics program produces highly recruited graduates. Industries are rapidly expanding the technology used in advanced manufacturing and product design by integrating robotics and automation systems. Mechatronics graduates develop a knowledge of mechatronic systems and the trouble-shooting skills to perform exceptionally well in high-wage jobs.
Students choose Motlow State for Mechatronics training because our graduates have:
• Received hands-on training in automation technology and mechatronic systems
• Developed critical-thinking and problem-solving skills
• Enhanced and refined individual technical skills
• Developed work-ready communication and collaboration skills
• Prepared to serve as an interface between business and manufacturing operations
• Prepared for multiple industries in the global competitive market
Area companies that employ Motlow Mechatronics graduates include: Bridgestone, Nissan, Calsonic, Copperweld, Yoroza Corporation of Tennessee, Frito Lay, Kasai North America, Sonoco, Great Lakes Cheese, General Mills, Batesville Casket, Morrison Industries, and more.
For additional information or to apply for any of these exciting career opportunities visit Motlow.com/Mechatronics, call 800-654-4877 or email mechatronics@mscc.edu.
Tennessee’s Community Colleges is a system of 13 colleges offering a high-quality, affordable, convenient, and personal education to prepare students to achieve their educational and career goals in two years or less. The system offers associate degree and certificate programs, workforce development programs, and transfer pathways to four-year degrees. For more information, please visit us online at tbr.edu or visit Motlow at mscc.edu.
Two pedestrians hit on Woodbury Highway Sunday morning
Two pedestrians were struck by an SUV traveling toward Woodbury on Highway 53 Sunday morning at approximately 5:30 a.m.
According to Manchester Police Department authorities, a male and a female were walking on the sidewalk near Powers Storage climate controlled units when the vehicle may have jumped the curve and struck them.
The female, identified by authorities as Carletta Carter, age 44, was flown to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga. As of Sunday afternoon she was listed in critical but stable condition. The male pedestrian did not receive serious injuries and did not require medical treatment.
According to MPD officials, the driver of the vehicle did stop and provided a statement to officers. Officers spent hours reconstructing the incident and the investigation continues.
Dennis Weaver foundation presents first scholarships to CHS athletes
The Dennis Weaver Foundation – properly know as the “Dream for Weave Foundation,” presented scholarships to six graduating Coffee County Central High School athletes at the school’s awards day last week.
“This is our first year of operation and with COVID limiting our ability to raise funds, we are extremely pleased that we were able to make this happen,” said foundation president Rob Clutter. “This community has been overwhelming with donations – I know Weave would be so humbled.”
Receiving scholarships in varying amounts that totaled $3,500 were Jaxon Vaughn, Clarissa Barrera, Lane Spry, Sydney Shipley, Jaden Talley and Keri Munn.
The Dream for Weave foundation mission is to support athletes in the Manchester community – through scholarships for graduating CHS athletes pursuing a college degree or technical certification in any field, and also through donations of athletic equipment for youth athletes who cannot afford proper equipment.
To inquire about needing equipment, email dreamforweaver@gmail.com or call 931-409-2215. To donate, make checks payable to “Dream for Weave Foundation” and mail to 1030 Oakdale St., Manchester, TN. 37355.
Jaden Talley 
Jaxon Vaughn 
Lane Spry 
Clarissa Barrera 
Keri Munn 
Sydney Shipley
City dedicates benches for late Mayor Norman, MPD Captain Patterson
Dozens of law enforcement officers, family, friends and elected officials gathered at Manchester City Hall Friday, May 14, for a bench dedication.
Memorial benches behind the city hall building were dedicated to the late Manchester Mayor Lonnie Norman, who passed away on Oct. 12, 2020, and Manchester Police Department Chris Patterson, who passed away on Oct. 16, 2020. The benches were made possible by community donations, according to Manchester Police Department Chief Mark Yother.
The day of the dedication also marked National Peace Officer Memorial Day.
Mayor Lonnie Norman Bench 
Dwight Vandagriff presents a wreath to Captain Patterson’s family 
Chris Patterson bench. 
Manchester Mayor Marilyn Howard.
Multiple COVID-19 pop-up vaccination sites available in Coffee County this week
Those wishing to receive COVID-19 vaccination in Coffee County will have multiple opportunities to do so over the coming weeks.
Monday
Manchester Health Department 1:30-3:30
Tullahoma Health Department 4:30-6:30
Blast from the Past Nostalgia Mall 9:00-Noon
Tuesday
Manchester Health Department 3:30-6:30
Tullahoma Health Department 1:30-3:30
Summitville Volunteer Fire Department 3:00-6:00
Wednesday
Manchester Health Department 9:00-11:00
Tullahoma Health Department 9:00-11:00
Southern Family Markets Building, Manchester 3:00-6:00
Thursday
Manchester Health Department 9:00-11:00
Tullahoma Health Department 1:30-3:30
Southern Family Markets Building, Manchester 11:00-2:00
Spring Street Market 7:00-11:00
Friday
Manchester Health Department 7:00-9:00
Tullahoma Health Department 7:00-9:00
Motlow summer application deadline is May 25
Motlow State Community College recently announced it will be fully open and operational for the fall 2021 semester, resuming all student activities and on-campus support functions. However, the summer semester will continue to function primarily online, and summer campus visits are by prior approval or appointment.
Motlow makes applying to college simple and free. More information can be found at mscc.edu/admissions/simple-and-free.html. The deadline to apply for summer semester classes is May 25. Go to www.mscc.edu/apply. Summer courses begin June 1, and will continue as in previous semesters, primarily online. Library access and student support functions, such as counseling and disability services, will begin a phase-in process in the lead up to more normal operations this fall. All services remain available online.
Fall classes begin on Aug. 23. The priority deadline to apply and submit financial aid requirements for the fall semester is June 1. Motlow continues to accept financial aid applications until classes start. The closer it gets to the start of classes, the more likely you will have to start by paying out-of-pocket and then getting reimbursed if you are eligible for aid. Motlow recruiters are here to help guide your application and enrollment process.
Contact a recruiter at info@mscc.edu. Safety, health, and wellness continue to be the top priority. The federal, state, and local guidance will continue to be adhered to and supported across the College’s five locations and 11-county service area. The decision to resume normal operations for fall 2021 is commensurate with decreased COVID-19 restrictions per the State of Tennessee. These changes are in accordance with CDC and Tennessee Department of Health guidelines to enhance the support of Motlow students.
Motlow’s Return to Campus Plan can be found at https://www.mscc.edu/documents/return- to-campus-plan.pdf.
What to Expect for the Remainder of the Summer Semester:
• Most classes remain online.
• Libraries will be open by appointment.
• Advising is available online and on-ground by appointment.
• Support services for new students are available online and on-ground by appointment.
What to Expect for the Fall Semester:
• Sufficient online courses will still be available for students who prefer a virtual schedule, but most classes will return to on-ground status.
• Libraries will be open without an appointment. Virtual library support will be available for students electing to continue learning remotely.
• Counseling, Testing, Disability Services open online and on campus.
• Athletic schedules return to normal.
• Admissions, financial aid, the business office will provide service both on-ground and virtually.
• Completion coaches and faculty advisors will be available for in-person sessions and virtually.
• The cafeteria will be open.
• Vending machines will be restocked.
• Water fountains will be open.
For additional information regarding Motlow’s status and plans, go to mscc.edu. Tennessee’s Community Colleges is a system of 13 colleges offering a high-quality, affordable, convenient, and personal education to prepare students to achieve their educational and career goals in two years or less. The system offers associate degree and certificate programs, workforce development programs, and transfer pathways to four-year degrees. For more information, please visit us online at tbr.edu or visit Motlow at mscc.edu.
Jason Aldean fans to descend on Manchester Friday, Saturday
The first ever “Concerts on the Farm” series will be this weekend in Manchester – featuring country music star Jason Aldean on May 14 and 15.
The series marks a return of live music after the COVID-19 pandemic and will be held on the Bonnaroo Farm.
Tickets to the Saturday, May 15 show are sold out. However, limited tickets remain available for May 14 and can be purchased by clicking here.
The Concerts on the Farm series will continue with shows Memorial Day weekend with Billy Strings and Jon Pardi. The Avett Brothers will play over July 4 weekend. Tickets to those shows can be purchased here.
Tennessee begins COVID-19 vaccinations for 12-15 year-old’s
The Tennessee Department of Health announced on Thursday, May 13 that they will begin administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children ages 12-15 years. This is following the decision by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to recommend to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that the Pfizer vaccine be made available to administer to children ages 12-15 years. The vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19. Prior to this decision, the Pfizer vaccine was only approved for individuals age 16 and above.
“We have been anticipating this decision for several weeks, and I am thrilled we can begin offering the Pfizer vaccine to children in this age group,” said Tennessee Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey, MD, MBA, FAAP. “As a mother and a pediatrician, I believe this vaccine to be safe and effective for children and I hope other parents across the state are relieved to learn this option is available. Our local health departments have been working ahead in preparation for this decision, and vaccine supply is available.”
The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines continue to be available to individuals age 18 and older. Those seeking vaccination should visit VaccineFinder.Org to find a list of locations and the vaccine brands they provide. This site includes a listing of both local health departments and other approved vaccine providers across the state. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are two-dose vaccines, and it’s important to receive the second dose for maximum protection against COVID-19.
Local health departments will be able to vaccinate children ages 12-15 years beginning Friday, May 14. Individuals are able to request appointments online through Vaccinate.tn.gov. When making an appointment, individuals under the age of 18 should select a Pfizer vaccine appointment time. Health departments also accept walk-ins.
Individuals may also schedule an appointment with a local vaccine provider by visiting covid19.tn.gov or VaccineFinder.org. Many local providers also accept walk-ins.
