Forgotten History: The old Cumberland Co. Pest House Stood for over 100 Years

Cumberland Co. Pest House, A bit of forgotten history...

(Some info from Virginia W. Bowman and the Cumberland Co. Historical and Genealogical Society.)

The Pest House in 2003 (Photo by CCHGS)

What was done with people who were sick in the time before hospitals and doctors?

For an isolation ward, a small house was built on the poor farm property outside of Crossville in May of 1909. Patients with smallpox or other contagious diseases were taken there until they were no longer "catching." Someone from a patient's family came by daily to bring food, water, clean clothes, and medicine.  

These items were passed through the door to the patient.  This house was called "the pest house" and stood on a wooded lot near the corner of Dayton Ave and Wells Rd. 

On May 19, 1909, a local news report said "a pest house has been erected on poor house property...Oliver Rector, son of O. B. Rector is the only patient. "

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It was bad enough to be so sick and isolated, but to be designated as a resident of the pest house was putting it bluntly.  

In those days, often a person's illness was written up in the newspaper. A complete report on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment was made and a statement as to whether recovery was expected or if there was no hope of survival. 

The Pest House on 5/29/19 (Photo by Jim Young)

The building originally had a vertical clapboard exterior and tin roof and stood for 100 years before a tree from the ice storm of 2015 fell across the structure destroying it.

Body Found on Cumberland Trail Identified and no foul play suspected.

CCSD Press Release

On May 25, 2019, at approximately 11:15 a.m. Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputies and Investigators were dispatched to Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail off Highway 68 where hikers had discovered a white male lying face down on the trail.

It appeared that the body had been deceased for several days.

Sheriff’s Investigators processed the scene and conducted an investigation. Tennessee State Park Rangers and Cumberland County Rescue Squad assisted in the retrieval of the body. The death appeared to be of natural causes.

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The deceased was identified as Tommy Woods, age 60, of Paran Road in Cookeville, Tennessee. The release of information was delayed pending notification of next of kin.

George Hardin wanted for Cumberland Co. kidnapping captured in Clay Co.

From Clay Co Sheriff Facebook page:

****CAPTURED***

On behalf of Clay County Sheriff Brandon Boone, we are proud to report that Mr. George Hardin was located and taken into custody at 11:19 am by deputies of the Clay County Sheriffs Office.

Sheriff Boone would like to thank all the members of the community that reported any suspicious activity and kept an eye out this past week! Mr. Hardin’s capture wouldn’t have been possible without the citizens help!

Again thank you to all the agencies that came out to assist in the man hunt efforts over this past week as well.

Cumberland County Memorial Day Ceremony Planned for Monday May 27

A Memorial Day program is planned for Crossville on Monday, May 27 and Main St. between Fourth Street and Second Street in front of the Cumberland County Courthouse will be closed starting at 9:30 AM until Noon.

Previous Memorial Day Recoginition

The Community Band will present a program of patriotic music starting at 10:30 AM and the program begins at 11:00 AM.  The program will take place at the Memorial Park at the corner of Fourth and Main St.

The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.

Info from TWRA on what to do if you see a bear around Crossville

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has a list of “bear-wise basics” for dealing with roaming bears in town:
• Never feed or approach bears.
• Do not store food, garbage or other recyclables in areas accessible to bears.
• Do not feed birds or other wildlife where bears are active.
• Feed outdoor pets a portion size they will completely consume during each meal and securely store pet foods.
• Keep grills and smokers clean and stored in a secure area when not in use.
• Talk to family and neighbors when bear activity is occurring in your area.
And if you see a bear:
• Bears will almost always find an escape route if they are left alone.
• Shout and throw sticks or rocks in the vicinity of a bear to encourage flight once an escape route has been established.
• Females with cubs will often climb a tree to escape. Never surround a tree holding any bear, especially a female with cubs.
• Locate and remove the lure that caused the bear to come into your area.

Bear Family (courtesy TWRA)

You should immediately report bear sightings in residential and business settings to the TWRA or local police. You can reach the TWRA’s regional office in Crossville at 1-833-402-4698 or 931-484-9571. You can also visit the TWRA’s website at www.tn.gov/twra/wildlife/mammals/large/black-bears.html to report a sighting or learn more tips about coping with black bears.

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Clay County Man Charged with Theft from Bank

Clay County Man Charged with Theft from Bank

TBI Press Release by Susan Niland

CELINA – An investigation by Special Agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has resulted in the arrest of a Celina man who is charged with stealing from his place of employment.

Brett White

At the request of 13th District Attorney General Bryant Dunaway, TBI Agents joined investigators with the District Attorney’s office in investigating a theft from a Celina bank that was discovered on March 1st. During the course of the investigation, Agents developed information that identified Brett White, who was at that time an employee of the bank, as the individual responsible for the theft.

Brett Allen White (DOB 10/14/1992) was charged with one count of Theft over $10,000, and on May 21st, he was booked into the Clay County Jail.

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Crossville Police Detective Sworn Into TBI Violent Crimes Task Force

Crossville PD Press Release 

On Monday 5/20/2019, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation held a ceremony at their headquarters in Nashville, TN, where a Crossville Police Detective was sworn in as a task force member.

Det. Kevin Wood, left and

Chief Jessie Brooks, right, at TBI HQ.

Crossville Police Detective Kevin Wood was sworn in as a member of the TBI Violent Crimes Task Force. The TBI Task Force is comprised of officers from multiple local agencies across the state, who work any violent crimes occurring in the state Tennessee. The task force allows smaller agencies to partner with each other and the TBI, to help put an end to violent crimes in our communities.

Additionally, participating agencies could have access to additional training, manpower and assistance from other participating agencies, as well as the TBI. This type of cooperation and inter-agency team work often leads to more prosecutable cases being solved and more criminals put in jail.

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The Crossville Police Department is proud that Detective Kevin Wood was chosen to participate in this task force and that he will be representing the City of Crossville and our community. His dedication and work ethic are a shining example of what it means to be a professional law enforcement officer.

May 2019 Report to Cumberland County from County Mayor Allen Foster

The Upper Cumberland Human Resources Agency (UCHRA) asked a couple of the Mayors from the Upper Cumberland to accompany them to Washington, DC to discuss issues relevant to the area. As a part of that contingency, I was able to talk about issues ranging from non-emergency transportation to broadband access in Cumberland County.  I took handouts detailing the broadband issues we have in our county.  It was good to have time with each of our U.S. legislators to get to know them and to promote Cumberland County. Thank you, Senator Marsha Blackburn, Congressman John Rose, and Senator Alexander, for meeting with us.

Allen Foster, Cumberland Co. Mayor

I was honored to attend the Beecher Seagraves Veterans Memorial Park groundbreaking in Pleasant Hill a few weeks ago.  We are blessed to have so many veterans in Cumberland County that sacrificed to serve our country.  I toured the construction work at Crab Orchard Elementary and CCHS along with Board of Education (BOE) staff and several County Commissioners.  Both areas look to be coming along nicely.  I attended a TVA Economic Development 101 workshop with several other elected officials from our community, and was able to present Cumberland County to a TVA Showcase in Nashville along with Mayor James Mayberry, TCAT President Cliff Wightman, and Chamber VP Ashley DeRossett.  I was also honored to speak to the CCHS Honors banquet and at the Police Memorial Day program.
 
The May 20^th meeting of the full County Commission was held with all Commissioners in attendance except Chad Norris and David Gibson. 

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Resolutions
The following resolutions were approved (resolution sponsor in parenthesis):
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-1 Amending Resolution Number 1205-6 clarifying the definition of “Structure” (Hyder).  This resolution defined “structure” for purposed of regulatory standards for the county’s Health and Safety Standards Board (HSSB) in dealing with vacant dilapidated structures.  It clarifies that structures including site-built buildings, manufactured homes, modular homes, and mobile homes or trailers so long as the weight of the structure is supported by blocks, rock, concrete or some other form of permanent foundation and is not supported by wheels.  The motion passed 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-2 Amending Resolution Number 1205-6 giving the Hearing Board authority to regulate the accumulation of debris, trash, litter and garbage (Hyder). This resolution gave the HSSB the ability to regulate the accumulation of debris, trash, litter.  The motion passed unanimously.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-3 To create a Procedures Manual for the citizens of Cumberland County, Tennessee (Norris).  This resolution requires each Commission Committee to create/update rules/procedures for their respective committees at least annually.  The procedures will then be kept in the Mayor’s Office and posted on the county website.  The motion passed 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-4 To adopt a new lease and agreement contract between the County and the Cumberland County Fair Association (Wilson).  A new contract for the Cumberland County Fair Association’s use of the Community Complex was approved in a unanimous vote.  The new lease will expire December 7, 2022.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-5 Authorizing the Mayor of Cumberland County to sign a proposal with the Tennessee Department of Transportation for Project No. STP-28 (32), State Project No. 18008-2222-14 (Kyle Davis).  The resolution adopted 16-0, gave me the authority to sign a contract with TDOT to move forward on a section of the US 127N project from near Potato Farm Road to near Hollow Lane.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-6 For designation of the Bluebird as the Official Bird of Cumberland County (Kyle Davis).  This resolution, adopted unanimously, names the Bluebird the official bird of Cumberland County.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-7 To re-appoint Herbert L. Blevins and Danny Cantwell as Judicial Commissioners for Cumberland County for terms not to exceed four (4) years commencing May 20, 2019 (Gibson).  The resolution was approved 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-8 To reappoint Tom Isham and appoint Joe Koester and Craig Clark as members on the Cumberland County Health and Safety Standards Board for four (4) year terms to expire May 15, 2023 (Foster).  The resolution was approved unanimously.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-9 Appointing Kathy Ivey to the Cumberland County Library Board for a first term of three years to begin July 1, 2019 and end June 30, 2022, reappointing R. Doug Scarlett to the Cumberland County Library Board for second term of three years to begin July 1, 2019 and end June 30, 2022 and reappointing J. D. Atkinson to the Falling Water River Regional Library Board for a second term of three years to begin July 1, 2019 and end June 30, 2022 (Stone).  The resolution was approved 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-10 To accept offer of Charles V. Sullens to purchase property owned by Cumberland County (Hyder).  The Delinquent Tax Committee recommended an offer of $311.40 for the purchase of one parcel.  This will return the property to the tax rolls after it had been removed due to property taxes not being paid for several years.  The resolution was approved unanimously.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-11 To accept offer of James A. Thomas and Theresa Thomas to purchase property owned by Cumberland County (Hyder). The Delinquent Tax Committee recommended an offer of $424.90 for the purchase of one parcel.  This will return the property to the tax rolls after it had been removed due to property taxes not being paid for several years.  The resolution was approved 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-12 Budget Amendment, General Fund, Fire Department, $135.00 (Seiber).  This resolution accepted donated funds for the Cumberland County Fire Department and was approved unanimously.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-13 Budget Amendment, General Fund, County Mayor, $876.00 (Hyder).  This resolution reclassified the County Mayor’s Office Manager due to changes in job responsibilities including grant coordination, marketing, and public relations.  The resolution was approved 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-14 Budget Amendment, General Fund, Election Commission/Voter Registration, $1,837.00 (Seiber).  This resolution, approved unanimously, accepted grant monies into the Election Commission budget.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-15 Budget Amendment, General Fund, County Building, $2,300.00 (Cooper).  This resolution provides for an accessible door on the small stone building in front of the courthouse.  This would allow Steve Norris to continue using the building as an office.  The resolution was approved 16-0.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-16 Budget Amendment, General Fund, County Commission, $4,000.00 (Wilson).  This resolution allocated funding for Wi-Fi access hardware for the courthouse.  The resolution was approved unanimously.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-17 Budget Amendment, General Fund, Sheriff, Jail, $12,000.00 (Patterson).  This resolution, passed 16-0, allowed the Sheriff to spend funds earned by the program for litter removal by inmates.  The funds will be used to construct an outbuilding at the Justice Center.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-18 Budget Amendment, General Fund, Compensation Plan Review, $5,000.00 (Wilson).  This resolution allocated funds for a review of the current compensation plan in place for county employees during the next fiscal year.  The resolution was approved unanimously.
 
RESOLUTION 05-2019-19 Budget Amendment, General Purpose School Fund, Additional Targeted Support and Improvement Grant, $125,000.00 (Hyder).  The Board of Education (BOE) was awarded the Additional Targeted Support and Improvement Grant.  This resolution accepted and allocated the funds and was approved 16-0.
 
Financial Report
Sales tax collections through April were $7,167,419.  The April receipts were $690,817 which is above budget by $24,070.  For the year, collections are approximately $208,998 above budgeted projections.  Property tax collections are at 100.5% compared to 98.3% at this point last year.  Hotel/Motel collections are $586,351 year to date compared to $603,406 last year.  That is 66.3% of the annual Hotel/Motel budgeted income compared to 74.5% last year.  Prisoner boarding, which is received sporadically from the State of Tennessee, is at $478,101 for eight months which is 77.1% of the budget.  Ambulance collections were above budget at $588,364.  The EMS backlog of billing has been caught up, and we have collected in excess of year to date budgeted projections by $107,737.  Gasoline was budgeted at a $2.25 per gallon and diesel was budgeted at $2.50 per gallon.  Currently, our weighted average cost for gasoline is $1.81 and diesel is $2.13.  Prisoner medical costs that are outside of the third-party contract for services were budgeted at $85,000 for the year.  Those costs continue to increase and currently stand at $41,333.73 over budget with approximately $17,748 of outstanding bills yet to be reconciled.  This overage will be handled at the end of the budget year in the standard cleanup resolution.

George Hardin sought for Aggravated Kidnapping and firearms charges

Cumberland Co. Sheriff's Dept. Press Release

On May 19, 2019, at approximately 3:44 p.m. officers from the Crossville Police Department were dispatched to Elite Market at 4050 127 North regarding a call that a white male with shaggy grey hair was holding a gun on a woman in a car.

George Edwin Hardin

Officers responded to the scene and discovered the victim had left her purse with another individual at the store. They were able to obtain the discription of the man with the gun and the identity of the woman who was taken from her residence in Cumberland County. Cumberland County Deputies and Investigators responded to the victim’s residence to conduct an investigation for additional information. 

A BOLO, (“Be On the Look Out” bulletin) was issued by Crossville / Cumberland County Central Communications advising information that was available to law enforcement.  Clay County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a store in Celina, Tennessee, that a female was at Obed River Market screaming and the male she is with had a gun. The male was identified as George Edwin Hardin (57) of Sharon Circle, Crossville. Hardin was out on parole for 1st Degree Murder, Armed Robbery and Rape. Officer responded to Obed River Market in Celina and located the woman who is now safe. 

Clay County deputies pursued the suspect which ended up with a foot pursuit where the suspect eluded capture. The suspect was still at Monday morning and considered to be armed and dangerous.

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Cumberland County Investigators have signed warrants on Hardin for Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping, Armed Dangerous Felon, Reckless Endangerment, Felony Possession of a firearm.

Everyone please be on the look out for George Edwin Hardin, age 57, 5’10” and 207 pounds. He was last seen wearing a teal shirt possibly polo style, blue jeans, and tennis shoes. He is ARMED AND DANGEROUS. He evaded deputies and ran into the woods in the area of Chad Grace Road and Estis Sims Road on the west end of Clay County. If you see him, do not approach him, call 911 immediately.

Multiple Federal, State and local agencies are involved in the manhunt which is still underway in Clay County and citizens in those areas should expect a large police presence as well as helicopter patrol.

Former Crossville City Manager David Rutherford tapped as interim Chamber President

A familiar face will be returning to Crossville at least for a time as the interim president of the Crossville/Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce.

With the chamber board's decision not to renew the employment contract with Brad Allamong, former Crossville city manager David Rutherford has been offered and accepted the interim position while a search for a new president moves forward.

David Rutherford

In addition to assisting with the search for a full-time replacement, Rutherford will be assisting staff with day to day operations, work with the local government on economic recruitment, help to develop "adopt a school" program, work to revitalize the horizon initiative and follow up on recommendations of the targeted industry and workforce development Younger Report.

Rutherford was a driving force in starting the Horizon Initiative.

Rutherford will be paid the same monthly salary as the previous president but will not accept benefits.

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Friday Afternoon Special Crossville Council Meeting Set including E911 and Airport as well as Budget

Crossville city council will hold a special called meeting Friday afternoon May 17 at 3:30 PM.

The meeting will be held in the third-floor conference room and the agenda includes the contract for the new Crossville Airport Fixed Base Operator as well as the contract with the county for the operation of the E-911 center. 

Council will also consider the first reading of the 2019-20 fiscal year budget as well as the second reading of the unchanged property tax rate.

The contract proposes to eliminate the Central Communications Committee. Instead, the City and County will contribute $550,000 annually to the Cumberland County Emergency Communications District. The current employees would become employees of the District and the District’s board members will oversee daily operations of the Director and employees. By statute, the Board is appointed by the County Mayor.

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The agreement is for two years with additional renewals or two years automatically unless notice is given. 

The Airport FBO contract is for 5 years with month to month continuation and includes a $5,500 management fee to the company Azure Flight Support, LLC.

Crossville City Council Strategic Planning Meeting Set Thursday May 16

Crossville city council will spend some time on Thursday, May 16 to do some strategic planning with the help of the Municipal Technical Advisory Service.

City Council at their May meeting. L-R: J.H. Graham,

Rob Harrison, Mayor James Mayberry, Art Gernt

and Scot Shanks. 

The meeting will be in the downstairs meeting room of the Cumberland Mountain State Park Resturant starting at 8 AM. 

What is being called a council retreat will spend part of the morning looking at strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Known as SWOT analysis, the exercise will lead to finding the top 4 goals of the group and developing objectives and a timetable to accomplish the goals.

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The city did its last similar exercise in 2013. The top 4 goals in the previous session included a merger with the South Cumberland Utility District, an interlocal orientation package, a recycling program, and employee self-funded health insurance.

In addition to strategic planning, the council is expected to hear reports on current projects from City Manager Greg Wood and discuss other issues facing the city.

May City Council Meeting to discuss E-911 Agreement, Sign Ordinance and Airport FBO

The Crossville City Council meets Tuesday Evening in to hold several meetings including the May monthly council meeting.

At 5:00 PM, the council will meet as the Audit Committee and at 5:40 PM the council will hold a public hearing on the annexation of 426 Valley Lane. The council will meet as the Beer Board at 5:45 PM and hold a public hearing on the city's Capital Improvement Plan at 5:50 PM.

The regular meeting agenda starts at 6:00 PM.

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Items up for discussion and/or action include an agreement between the city and the council on the E-911 operation and sharing of costs. The matter was discussed during last weeks work session and it appears the agreement is not yet ready for action by the council but the current agreement is canceled as of the end of June by previous council action. The new agreement would set the amount the city pays toward the operation of the E-911 call center and removes the city from any liability of the employees that they had no control over.

If a new agreement can not be reached before the current one expires, the council opt for a month to month agreement.

Council is expected to form a committee to revise the city's sign ordinance. Issues with the current ordinance may not be enforceable and changes are necessary.

Council will also consider naming a permanent Fixed Base Operator for Crossville Memorial Airport.

Julie Long named program coordinator for Cumberland County Rising

Cumberland County Rising (CCR) Board President Steve Stone announced the recent hiring of Julie Long, a native Cumberland Countian, to the newly-created position of program director.

The announcement is made after CCR received a state grant to fund the full-time position. Long was selected by the board of directors from a list of candidates and joined the coalition last month. Since that time she has attended training and educational programs sponsored by the state.

Julie Long

“We are very grateful to have Julie Long on the team at CCR. She brings great experience and education to her position and most importantly she brings a heart with a desire to serve driven by a love for children.”

“I just want to say how excited and blessed I am to be a part of such a great organization,” Long said. “I have a heart and passion for the cause and hope and pray that together we can make a positive change in our community.”

Long’s background is in elementary education and she holds a Master’s degree in human services. She is a past employee with the Teens Against Drug (TAD) Center where she was involved for several years.  She has also worked at Cumberland Mountain Mental health as a prevention specialist, working with children and youth.

“I have seen first-hand how drugs can tear a family and a life apart,” said Long. “I have had drugs tear my family apart and I can empathize with others who are dealing with it.”

Long hit the ground running, collaborating with the Legal and Lethal Cumberland Medical Center, Covenant Health and CCR during which 50 persons, including many from the medical field, attended.  In April, she was part of a CCR invitation to participate in a program at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT). She also represented CCR at the Blue Ribbon Ceremony held at the Community Complex.

Upcoming programs Long is already working on with CCR include hosting a Prevention in the Park at the new splash pad. The tentative date for that program is June 6 and announcements will be forthcoming. Long is also working with a Jackson coalition to sponsor three youth from Cumberland County and Stone Memorial high schools in leadership and educational camp.
Anyone wishing to contact CCR or Julie can do so by going to the CCR website, email programcoordinator@cumberlandcountyrising.org or by calling (931) 210-0384.

Police Serve Narcotics Search Warrant Leading to Property Condemnation

Crossville Police Department Press Release

In the early morning hours on Friday, May 10, 2019, following months of Crossville Narcotics Detective’s long term investigations on illegal Narcotics Distribution, a Narcotics Search Warrant was served at a Braun Street residence in Crossville, TN. Participating in the operation were the Crossville Police Department, Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department, H.I.D.T.A.-T.B.I. Drug Task Force, the 13th Judicial District Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Tennessee National Guard Counter Drug Task Force and other enforcement agencies.

Condemned House

The Search Warrant was served without incident and the home was condemned by the City of Crossville Codes Enforcement Office. The suspects of the investigation will be presented for Indictment by the Cumberland County Grand Jury, at a later date.

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A special thank you goes out to all agencies involved in the completion of this dangerous task. JOB WELL DONE!

Crossville Police to Increase Seat Belt Enforcement in order to Save Lives

As summer kicks off and families hit the road for vacation, The Crossville Police Department is partnering with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) to remind motorists to “Click It or Ticket.” From May 20 to June 2, participating agencies across the state will increase seat belt enforcement as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) nationwide mobilization.

“Buckling up is such a simple task that can keep you and your family safe in the car,” said Captain Brian Tilley. “But it’s more than that. Buckling up is the law. Our law enforcement officers see the consequences of not buckling up. We see the loss of life. Often, it could have been prevented with the simple click of a seat belt. This should be automatic.”

According to Tennessee’s Integrated Traffic Analysis Network (TITAN), 299 people killed in Tennessee traffic crashes last year, were not wearing a seat belt. This represents approximately 29 percent of the state’s total traffic fatalities in 2018.

According to NHTSA, in 2017, there were 10,076 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in the United States. In that same year, 55 percent of passenger vehicle occupants killed at night (6 p.m. – 5:59 a.m.) were not wearing their seat belts. That’s why one focus of the “Click It or Ticket” campaign is nighttime enforcement. Participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, writing citations during the daytime and nighttime hours.

For more information about seat belt safety or the THSO, visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.

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Local Youth Interested in Learning about Law Enforcement invited to Sheriff Youth Academy

SHERIFF YOUTH ACADEMY TO BE HELD SUMMER OF 2019

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office will be holding the 5th Annual Sheriff’s Youth Academy the summer of 2019. 

This is a program that is designed to provide the youth in our communities the opportunity to gain insight into the everyday functions and training of the variety of law enforcement agencies and emergency services in our government. The Academy will be held at the Cumberland County Community Complex. Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day.

The cost of the program is $25.00 per student, however, scholarships are available for any student that wants to attend but needs assistance. Students who complete the course will receive a Youth Academy T-Shirt and a certificate at the Sheriff’s Academy Graduation. The schedule will be as follows: 

Students going into
4th Grade - June 3-7 - 8am - 12pm
5th Grade - June 17-21 - 8am - 12pm
6-8th Grade - July 8-12 - 8am - 2pm
9-12th Grade - July 15-19 - 8am - 2pm

The curriculum includes Responding to Crisis Situations, Defensive Tactics, Handcuffing, Patrol
Procedures, Traffic Enforcement, Criminal Investigations, Crime Scene Processing, K-9 Units,
S.W.A.T. Tactics, Overview of Criminal Justice System, Bullying, Active Shooter, See Something, Say Something school threat management.

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Applications may be requested from Gary Howard at garyhoward911@gmail.com or applications are available at the front desk of the Sheriff’s Office. Students may also see their School Resource Officer for an application or information. For more information call (931) 246-9882 or go to the website https://garyhoward911.wixsite.com/syacademy.

If you or your company would like to be a sponsor for this great program, please contact Gary Howard at garyhoward911@gmail.com and we will be in contact with you. “Together we can
make a difference in the future or our children and our community.”

Thursday Budget Work Session agenda includes Non-Profits and possible finishing touches.

Crossville city council will meet in a budget work session on Thursday, May 9 to discuss the funding of non-profit requests.

Members of the Crossville City Council and city manager

meet in a recent work session.

The meeting will be on Thursday, May 9 at 5 PM in the third-floor conference room.

The council continues work on the budget and has completed an initial review of the general fund and water and sewer budgets.  In addition to the non-profit requests, other smaller funds and requests in the general fund budget are also expected to be discussed in Thursday's meeting.

Council member J. H. Graham expressed some satisfaction with the budget at the last budget meeting saying the budget would be done with no tax increase, no water or sewer rate increase and a 2.5 cost of living raise across the board for city employees.

Garage/Yard Sale Permits required in the City of Crossville

Residents of Crossville are reminded that Yard Sale permits are required for sales held within the City limits. 

Permits can be obtained in the City Clerk’s office at 392 North Main Street at no charge. Property owners are limited to 5 three-day sales during the calendar year. 

For more information and an application forms visit the following link:  http://www.crossvilletn.gov/index.php/administration/city-clerk/applications-permits

Crossville City Council Work Session Topics include Emergency Communications Contract and Airport FBO

Crossville City Council meets in their May work session Tuesday, May 7 at 5 PM to prepare for their regular meeting on May 14.

In addition, following the meeting the council will meet in a private executive session with city attorney Will Ridley on legal matters.

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Council will discuss the contract regarding a contract with the Central Communications Committee. City Manager Greg Wood and attorney Will Ridley will update the council on the negotiations. Previously the council gave notice that they would cancel the contract in order to negotiate a new one as the E-911 Board had dropped out of the contract and paying a portion of the costs. That left the county and the city to share the costs 50/50 with city taxpayers paying a portion of both costs.

In addition, the council will get an update from the city manager on the status of the request for proposals seeking a new Fixed Base Operator for the airport.

Crossville/Cumberland Co. Chamber of Commerce Board meets Monday May 13.

The board of directors of the Crossville/Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce will meet on Monday, May 13 at 5 PM at the Chamber office 34 S. Main Street.  The meeting is open to the public.

Chamber of Commerce office building (photo: Jim Young)

Upcoming Items on the Crossville City Government Calendar

Schedule of Upcoming Events:

May   7, 2019      City Council Work Session                                       5:00 p.m.

May   7, 2019      Closed, executive session following work session

May   8, 2019      TVA Economic Development Workshop                  5:30 p.m.

May   9, 2019       City Council Budget Work Session                         5:00 p.m.

May 13, 2019     Crossville Tree Board                                               3:00 p.m.

May 14, 2019     Audit Committee                                                      5:00 p.m.

May 14, 2019     Public Hearing for Annexation                                 5:40 p.m.

May 14, 2019     Beer Board                                                               5:45 p.m.

May 14, 2019     Public Hearing - Capital Improvement Plan             5:50 p.m.

May 14, 2019     City Council Meeting                                               6:00 p.m.  

May 16, 2019     City Council Retreat at Cumberland Mtn. SP          8:00 a.m.

    

Crossville Police Promoting May as Motorcycle Safety Month

The City of Crossville Police Department will be partnering with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office to promote motorcycle safety during the month of May, which is nationally recognized as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Agencies participate by providing information and increasing awareness in their communities about the importance of sharing the road and looking twice for motorcyclists.

"Motorcyclists will be out in force as the weather gets warmer, which is why it is the perfect time for us to remind the community about the vulnerability of motorcycle riders," said Chief Jessie Brooks. "All motorists need to know how to anticipate and respond to motorcyclists to avoid crashes."

Here are a few safe driving tips to prevent crashing with a motorcycle:

• Though a motorcycle is a small vehicle, its operator still has all the rights of the road as any other motorist. Allow the motorcycle the full width of a lane at all times.

• Always signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic.

• If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. Motorcycle signals are often non-canceling. Always ensure that the motorcycle is turning before proceeding.

• Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections.

• Always allow ample follow distance - three to four seconds - when driving behind a motorcycle. This gives riders more time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.

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According to preliminary data, there were 2,701 motorcycle crashes in Tennessee last year. Of those crashes, 166 were fatal.

If you have questions or comments, please call the Crossville Police Department at 931-484-7231.

Crossville Police Officer Samantha Seay Named March Officer of the Month

The City of Crossville Police Department has announced the March 2019 Officer of the Month.

Patrol Officer Samantha Seay was presented with an Officer of the Month Certificate, to recognize her for going above and beyond what is required in their job descriptions as well as going the extra mile to help protect the citizens of our community.

Crossville Police Chief Jessie Brooks, left, and

Patrol Officer Samantha Seay, right.

On March 7th, 2019, Patrol Officer Seay responded to the Crossville Walmart Super Store, for a theft report involving an associate’s personal cell phone. After taking the report and obtaining photos of the suspects, Officer Seay made a positive identification of the suspect, having previous knowledge of the individual. Officer Seay’s diligence enabled her to track down the suspect and take them into custody while recovering the stolen property and returning it to the victim.

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Officer Seay conducted this investigation professionally and thoroughly and it is a good example of taking initiative and solving the crime. Therefore, Patrol Officer Seay has been named Officer of the Month, March 2019, for her dedication and diligence while performing her duties.

Crossville Dragway Hosting Street Outlaw Extravaganza May 12 Features "No Prep Kings"

The 2019 drag racing season is heating up with the announcement that Crossville Dragway will host the first ever Street Outlaw Extravaganza on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12th. The Street Outlaw Extravaganza brings four of the nation’s most well-known drag racers to Crossville Dragway to battle. The staff at Crossville Dragway has a full day of drag racing planned, with other local racers taking to the track in side-by-side action.

The Street Outlaw Extravaganza will feature Ryan Martin in his 2010 Camaro named “Fireball”. With a twin-turbocharged Pro-Line Racing engine, this car produces 4,500 horsepower and is one of the top contenders on Street Outlaws, as well as the No Prep Kings series. Another household name from the Street Outlaws TV Show is Chuck Seitsinger’s “Death Trap” Ford Mustang. The twin-turbocharged “big tire” Mustang uses a much smaller engine than the Fireball Camaro, but applies the power aggressively with extremely hard launches off the starting line.

Along with the two Oklahoma City-based racers, a pair of Mississippi-based drag cars are scheduled to race in the Street Outlaw Extravaganza. The “Swamp Thing” Chevy II station wagon from the Taggart racing family is one of the wildest cars on the No Prep Kings series, and relies on a nitrous-assisted big block Chevy for power. Ken Clark’s nitrous-powered Chevy II named “White Zombie” rounds out the four-car Street Outlaw Extravaganza. The Street Outlaws stars will be on hand all day, signing autographs and selling merchandise. All four cars will make several all-out passes down the drag strip, and Ryan Martin’s goal with the Fireball Camaro is to break the track record.

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In addition to the Street Outlaws cars making passes, there will be plenty of action on the track all day. Track owners, Michael Newcome and Rick Wetherbee will be making passes in their personal drag cars, totaling 5,000 horsepower between the two of them. Local racers, Mike Farley, Randy Petet, and Bradley Hamlet, among others, have committed to putting on a show for the fans as well. If that wasn’t enough, the track will be open to all participants who want to run down the same track as the superstars.

General admission for the Street Outlaw Extravaganza is $25 per adult. Children 12 and under get in free. For an additional $20, any participant can race their car all day during the event. Gates open at 12pm, and test passes will begin shortly after. Co-owner of Crossville Dragway, Michael Newcome said, “Street Outlaw Extravaganza is going to the biggest event Crossville Dragway has ever seen.” Whether spectators prefer Chevy or Ford, new or old, this collection of Street Outlaw stars and local legends is sure to bring thousands of spectators to Crossville Dragway for a Mother’s Day they’ll never forget.

Crossville Dragway is a family-oriented facility, and both Newcome and Wetherbee’s families work at the track to make the 2019 drag racing season fun for everyone. For more information about the new and improved Crossville Dragway, please call 931-335-9837 or check out www.crossvilledragway.com for more information.