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Governor Bill Lee has issued a proclamation recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

The proclamation reads, in part:

“All Tennesseans have valuable strengths, infinite capacity to learn and make decisions, and important contributions to make to our communities… Tennessee is therefore committed to supporting and equipping communities to become inclusive places for people with disabilities to pursue their goals and dreams.”

Read the full proclamation text on the Secretary of State’s website.

“This is a time to celebrate the contributions people with developmental disabilities are making in Tennessee, and to recommit ourselves to removing barriers to full participation in our communities and our state,” Council on Developmental Disabilities Executive Director Wanda Willis said.

“This celebration kicks off a year of big anniversaries in the disability community, from the 30th of the Americans with Disabilities Act to the 50th of councils on developmental disabilities like ours,” Willis said. “It’s a time to remember how far we’ve come, but also to rededicate ourselves to a more integrated and inclusive future.

“We work to support people with developmental disabilities in living the lives they dream of for themselves,” Willis said. “That vision requires all of us to work together.”

What are developmental disabilities?

A developmental disability, according to the Developmental Disabilities Act of 2000, is defined as a disability which originated at birth or during childhood, is expected to continue indefinitely, and substantially restricts the individual’s functioning in several major life activities. Examples include but are not limited to autism, traumatic brain injury, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and Down syndrome.
The Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities estimates that more than 108,000 Tennesseans have developmental disabilities, based on national prevalence data.

Who is the Council on Developmental Disabilities?

The Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities is a state agency established to improve disability policies and practice, educate policymakers and the public, and build community collaboration to create lasting, positive change for Tennesseans with disabilities and their families. The Council is the only state agency specifically tasked with looking at how all the pieces of our disability system work together, identifying areas of need and bringing different parts of government and outside groups together to tackle challenges and improve state services. For more information, visit www.tn.gov/cdd or follow us on Twitter (@TNCouncilDD) or Facebook.

Cannon County Schools announced recently that an outstanding individual and excellent educator was chosen to be Cannon County’s representative for Principal of the Year.

Principal of the Year 2019-2020 is Connie Foster of East Side School.  Mrs. Foster had a surprise visit by Cannon County Schools Director William F. Curtis and Supervisor of Instruction, Dr. Marcia Melton to her school on Wednesday morning, March 4th, 2020 to announce her selection as Principal of the Year for Cannon County at a faculty meeting with teachers, and staff.  Foster is currently serving her 21st year in Cannon County Schools and her third year as Principal of East Side School.  She has served as a Substitute, Kindergarten Teacher, 1st Grade Teacher, 4th – 8th Teacher all at East Side School in Cannon County. Mrs. Foster served as a 3rd Grade Teacher in Murfreesboro City Schools for one year, and then returned to Cannon County Schools as Cannon County System-wide Coordinator of School Health from 2008 – 2014. She then returned to East Side School as a Teacher and was chosen as Principal in 2017-2018.  Connie Foster is married to Ronnie Foster and has three children – Jacob Smithson, Emily Haynes, and Anna Rowland.  They have two grandchildren – Madden and Teller Haynes.

Director of Cannon County Schools William F. Curtis stated, “Mrs. Connie Foster has shown tremendous caring leadership of East Side School in her brief tenure as Principal there.  She is extremely well-respected in the East Side Community by students, faculty, and parents/guardians.  Her professionalism is commended in her role as instructional leader at her school.  East Side School was named as a ‘Reward School’ for 2018-2019 indicating Mrs. Foster’s role as a quality administrator.  Her former role as a system-wide administrator has certainly aided her in this position, as well as, her being a respected member of the East Side Community.”

The Cannon County Board of Education offers congratulations to this wonderful and deserving educator.  East Side Principal and Cannon County Principal of the Year 2019-2020, Mrs. Connie Foster, will be representing Cannon County Schools in the Upper Cumberland CORE Region of Tennessee.  We honor Mrs. Foster for personifying the Mission and Vision of Cannon County Schools – “Preparing All Students for Their Future” through the New E3 = “Engaged in Excellence Every Day!”

The Cannon County Commission is now back to ten members.  Over the past few months the commission was operating without all of the seats at the table being filled.  Fifth District Commissioner Kim Davenport resigned from the board siting health reasons.  Thursday night the commission filled the vacancy with attorney Lacey Buchanan of Woodbury.  Buchanan was one of the candidates for the position in the last election cycle.  Commissioner Ronnie Mahaffey (also of the 5^th District) placed Buchanan’s name for consideration by the commission.

The progress of bringing the Cannon-Adams Office building into compliance with the state Fire Marshall’s request was discussed.  County executive Brent Bush reported the de-commissioning of the sprinkler system (no longer required, since the building is no longer a hospital) is progressing and maybe completed within the next month.  Director of Schools William Curtis told commissioners the Board of Education will have the updates on fire alarm system and magnetic locks install on requested doors on the first floor of the building.  Attorney Chris Coats also stated the status report going to the Fire Marshall’s office would provide an update on the options being reviewed for correcting the fiber tiles in the building.

After a lengthy discussion, Commissioners finally decided to use the Cannon-Adams Building for the location of the office of the County Finance Director.  That new position by law, must be in operation by the start of the new fiscal year, July 1^st.  In addition to the finance office, the county clerk will have space for the addition of driver license service in the building.

The Tennessee Department of Health has received negative test results for household contacts of the first case of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus in Tennessee. The TDH State Public Health Laboratory tested the individuals March 5 for infection with COVID-19. Tests on two unrelated individuals are also negative.

Tennessee has one case of COVID-19, an adult male from Williamson County who recently traveled out-of-state. The patient has a mild illness and is isolated at home. Health care providers and public health workers are providing guidance to the family to prevent further spread of illness.

COVID-19 is not currently widespread in Tennessee or the United States, and the overall risk to the general public remains low. At this time no additional precautions are recommended for Tennesseans to take beyond normal practices to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:

•             Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

•             Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing

•             Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands

•             Stay home if you are sick

•             Stay away from people who are sick

Most patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection have mild respiratory illness with fever, cough and shortness of breath. A smaller number of patients have severe symptoms requiring hospitalization.

TDH has launched a Tennessee Coronavirus Public Information Line in partnership with the Tennessee Poison Center. The number is 877-857-2945 and is available daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central time.

People with concerns about their health should contact their health care providers. TDH has additional information available at www.tn.gov/health/cedep/ncov.html. The CDC has updated information and guidance available online at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

An investigation by Special Agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has resulted in the indictment of a Woodbury man, who is facing multiple charges, including murder.

At the request of 16^th District Attorney General Jennings Jones, on July 12, 2019, TBI Special Agents responded to a home on Sunny Slope Drive in Woodbury, where Jason Glass had been shot to death. During the course of the investigation, Agents learned that the victim was with an acquaintance, John McPeak, during an altercation at that home. The investigation revealed that during that altercation, McPeak fired shots, striking and killing the victim.

In January, the Cannon County Grand Jury returned indictments charging John Daniel McPeak with one count of First Degree Murder, two counts Aggravated Assault, one count Aggravated Burglary, one count Theft of Property, one count Possession of a Weapon by Convicted Felon, and one count Employing a Firearm with Intent to go Armed. On Wednesday, McPeak was transported to the Cannon County Jail, where he was booked on those charges.

The Tennessee Department of Health has received positive test results for a case of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus in Tennessee. The TDH State Public Health Laboratory tested the individual, and has submitted results to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for confirmation. The patient is an adult male from Williamson County who had recently traveled out-of-state. The patient has a mild illness and is isolated at home.

“We are working closely with local health care partners to identify contacts and contain spread of this disease in our communities,” said Tennessee Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey, MD, MBA, FAAP. “We’ve been anticipating identification of COVID-19 cases in Tennessee. At this time, the overall risk to the general public remains low. We are continuing to work with the CDC and other agencies to provide guidance to Tennesseans to protect their health.”

Most patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection have mild respiratory illness with fever, cough and shortness of breath. A smaller number of patients have severe symptoms requiring hospitalization. COVID-19 is not currently widespread in the United States, so no additional precautions are recommended for the general public to take beyond normal practices to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Stay home if you are sick
• Stay away from people who are sick

TDH has launched a Tennessee Coronavirus Public Information Line effective at 10 a.m. Central time today in partnership with the Tennessee Poison Center. The hotline number is 877-857-2945 and will be available from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central daily.

People with concerns about their health should contact their health care providers. TDH has additional information available at www.tn.gov/health/cedep/ncov.html. The CDC has updated information and guidance available online at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

In the wake of devastating tornadoes that hit Davidson, Putnam and Wilson counties, Secretary of State Tre Hargett is urging people to use caution when trying to help those affected. “Tennesseans are generous and support each other in times of need, and I encourage everyone to be diligent when donating money to charitable organizations,” said Secretary Hargett. ” Unfortunately, there are scam artists who prey on our generosity after a disaster. Tennesseans should give wisely so that we maximize recovery efforts.” Secretary Hargett encourages Tennesseans to review these Wise Giving Tips from the Secretary of State’s Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming before donating: If a nonprofit asks you for a contribution, check to see if it’s registered online sos.tn.gov/charitable or by calling 615-741-2555. Take your time. Resist pressure to give on the spot. Ask Questions. If an organization has a specific mission, ask how and who will benefit from your donation. If you are asked for a donation via text or email, verify the request is directly from the charity or nonprofit. Do your own research and don’t assume a social media or blog recommendation has been approved by the nonprofit. If you give through an app or website, ask if it is going directly to the organization. Avoid giving cash. Always ask for a receipt and if your contribution is tax deductible. Pay close attention to the name of the nonprofit organization, as there are many with similar names. Don’t forget there are many ways to give, such as volunteering your time. If a paid fundraiser asks you for a donation, ask how much is kept by the fundraiser and how much goes to the nonprofit. “Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with those affected by Tuesday’s devastating tornadoes, especially those who’ve lost loved ones, along with all of the volunteers and uniformed men and women who are tirelessly helping others during the ongoing recovery effort,” Secretary Hargett said. Any charity that raises over $50,000 a year must register with the Secretary of State’s Division of Charitable Solicitations. To see if a charity is registered with the State of Tennessee visit, sos.tn.gov/charitable or call the Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming 615-741-2555. As Tennessee’s charity officials, please report any false, misleading or deceptive fundraising activity to the Division of Charitable Solicitations and Gaming at 615-741-2555.

Roadblocks, park use and parades were several of the items on the agenda before this month’s meeting of the Woodbury Mayor and Board of Alderman.

A public hearing regarding the proposed ordinance number 511 was held.  The ordinance amends Woodbury Ordinance number 449.  The changes relate to permits on soliciting money by the use of roadblocks in the city.  Citing safety concerns, future roadblocks will only be approved with fewer days and hours.  No one spoke in favor of or in objection to the revised ordinance. The board approved the ordinance.

Deborah Leach addressed the board on behalf of the Cannon County Senior Center.  The center conducts the annual Good Ole Days festival.  Leach requested a parade permit and use of Dillon Park for Good Ole Days in May.  The board approved the request.

Public Works Director Shane Gannon informed the board that currently, clients of the Woodbury Water District have the ability of acquiring sewage service without a requirement to be a water client of the district.  After some discussion by board members, the board approved revision of the requirement. A public hearing will be held on the matter at the April meeting of the Mayor and Board of Alderman.

The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7^th at 7:00pm.

Today, Governor Bill Lee announced the formation of a Coronavirus Task Force to enhance Tennessee’s coordinated efforts to prevent, identify, and treat potential cases of COVID-19.

“As confirmed cases of the coronavirus spread across the country, it is important that Tennessee remains prepared,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “To help us be even better prepared, this group of experts will work closely with me and my administration, along with local, state, and federal agencies as we continue to monitor any potential developments. I appreciate their willingness to serve our state.”

The task force will develop and execute strong precautionary measures, resource allocation, and emergency response plans should the need arise in Tennessee.

The following Tennesseans will serve on the task force: 

• Dr. Lisa Piercey, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Health
• Dr. Penny Schwinn, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Education
• Dr. Jonathan Moorman, Infectious Disease Division Chief, East TN State University
• Dr. Martha Buchanan, Director, Knox County Metro Health Department
• Mike Krause, Executive Director, TN Higher Education Commission
• Bradley Jackson, President and CEO, TN Chamber of Commerce
• Dr. Tom Talbot, Chief Hospital Epidemiologist, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
• Dr. Jonathan Perlin, Chief Medical Officer, HCA
• Dr. Wendy Long, President and CEO, TN Hospital Association
• Dr. Sara Cross, Infectious Disease Chief, Regional One Health
• Holly Sullivan, Director of Worldwide Economic Development, Amazon
• Doug Kreulen, Chief Executive Officer, Nashville International Airport
• Jeff Aiken, President, TN Farm Bureau
• David Lusk, Director, FedEx Global Security Operations Center
• Rebecca Kelly, State Director, AARP Tennessee

For more information regarding COVID-19, visit https://www.tn.gov/health.

Tennessee is one of fourteen states participating in yesterday’s Super Tuesday Presidential Primary.

The Cannon County Election Commission has announced the following numbers from the primary. 1,172 persons voted on election day, Absentee and early votes 453,  combined it produced a total of 1,625 persons voting  

In the Republican primary, 946 persons voted. Of those 946, 931 voted for Donald J. Trump

In the Democratic primary 675 persons voted. Of those voting in the democratic primary

281 or 41.63% to Joe Biden

182 or 26.96% for Bernie Sanders

105 or 15.56% Michael R. Bloomberg

55 or 8.15% Elizabeth Warren

20 or 2.96% Amy Klobuchar

18 or 2.67% Pete Buttigieg

Statewide, Trump and Biden also won their primaries.

In two middle Tennessee counties (Wilson and Maury) citizens voted to increase sales tax with the increases going to education.