“Behind every number is a student whose dreams are being realized here at Austin Peay,” President Tim Hall said during a public announcement and celebration this morning at the main campus. Faculty, staff, alumni and students attended the event, which culminated in the distribution of free commemorative T-shirts to the campus community.

Now that Fall II 2009 figures from the Austin Peay Center @ Fort Campbell are complete, APSU’s enrollment is 10,188 for the Fall 2009 semester, pending approval from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission when it meets for its quarterly meeting Nov. 19.

The magic number

Unlike any other state university in Tennessee, APSU cannot file final enrollment data until after the 14th day of classes of the Fall II Term at the Austin Peay Center @ Fort Campbell, which was Nov. 6.
For 2009-10, the University has 9,296 undergraduate students and 892 graduate students, for a total of 10,188 – an 8.37 percent increase from Fall 2008 when the enrollment was 9,401.

APSU President Tim Hall addressing the audience

The number of students attending APSU full time this year is 8,002 – compared with a full-time equivalency (FTE) enrollment of 7,498 in Fall 2008. That represents a 6.7 percent increase.
Enrollment in the APSU College of Graduate Studies has grown 49 percent in a five-year period since 2004. In each of those years, the number of graduate students has increased.

In addition to Hall, Provost Dr. Tristan Denley and Student Government Association President Chris Drew offered comments at today’s event. Former APSU President Dr. Sherry Hoppe, whose administration helped the institution to usher an enrollment growth, also attended, as well as local and state dignitaries.

This week, several activities and events have been planned to celebrate reaching 10,000 students, including student giveaways and faculty and staff receptions.

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Nashville – Tennessee officials announced Wednesday that Montgomery County has been awarded a highway safety grant of $101,922 for the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department to fund the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program, $98,713 for the Clarksville Police Department to support the 2010 Impaired Driver Abatement Project, and $5,000 for Austin Peay State University to support high visibility law enforcement campaigns.

The Governor’s Highway Safety Office (GHSO) mission is to save lives and reduce injuries on Tennessee roadways through leadership, innovation, coordination, and program support in partnership with other public and private organizations. The grant awarded will be used to promote this mission.

“These highway safety grants reflect a continued commitment to work with local and state agencies to make our roadways even safer than they are today,” said Bredesen. “The funds made available through these grants will support the efforts of many local and state highway safety partners to reduce the number of people killed and injured in traffic crashes each year.”

Grant awards are issued to agencies that successfully applied for funding based on problem and statistical need. The GHSO notified agencies across the state that applications were being accepted for highway safety grants. Applications were reviewed and scored by the GHSO and external highway safety advocates. The agencies that met the criteria for funding received awards.

“I am proud that we are able to help fund important programs at the state and local level that help reduce the number of traffic crashes on Tennessee roadways,” stated Commissioner Gerald Nicely, Tennessee Department of Transportation. “These grants will make a difference in the effectiveness of our highway safety partners.”

There are several elements that contribute to a sound and safe roadway system. Some of those aspects are an accurate traffic safety data collection and analysis system; well-trained and equipped law enforcement personnel; and effective emergency medical and trauma systems. A major part of roadway safety is educating motorists about laws and good driving behaviors.

“Grants awarded by the GHSO are provided in areas of need,” reported GHSO Director Kendell Poole. “Statistics show our problem areas and we strive to put the funding where it will be most effective. We are dedicated to saving lives across Tennessee and pledge to work with grantees statewide to accomplish our mission.”

Senator Tim Barnes and Representatives Joe Pitts, Curtis Johnson, and Phillip Johnson worked to secure these funds for Montgomery County.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides the funding for GHSO grants.

AT&T today announced the extension of its 3G mobile broadband network to Clarksville, providing access to accelerated data speeds that open the door to a new era of mobile services, devices and feature-rich audio and video content. AT&T is also expanding its existing 3G footprint in the Nashville and Memphis metropolitan areas.

The Clarksville extension is one part of AT&T’s ongoing initiatives to enhance the speed and performance of its 3G mobile broadband network – the fastest 3G network in the nation, according to independent testing. It is also part of AT&T’s ongoing investment to build the broadband networks that will create jobs and fuel economic growth, and enable its customers to quickly access the content, applications and services that matter most to them.

“We continue to make significant private investments to deliver dependable, high speed wireless access in more places across Tennessee for consumers and business customers who need to stay connected – and to help keep Tennessee a leader in technology and innovation,” said Gregg Morton, president of AT&T Tennessee.

Rep. Joe Pitts, Lanie Johnson, AT&T External Affairs Manager; Cathy Russell, AT&T store manager - Clarksville, Kim Drye, AT&T area sales manager, north Nashville and Clarksville.

About the Clarksville Expansion

The Clarksville 3G expansion builds on AT&T’s investment in 2008, which added 3G service to 110 cell sites, bringing wireless broadband capability to more areas across the Volunteer State. All told, from 2006 to 2008, AT&T’s total capital investment in Tennessee was more than $1.2 billion.

The 3G mobile broadband network expansion efforts help address the growing demand for advanced wireless data products and services as more and more people’s lives become increasingly mobile and fast-paced. With 3G speeds, customers can not only surf the Web and download files faster than ever, but they can also experience the very latest interactive mobile applications such as live video sharing and remote home monitoring.

The AT&T 3G network also opens the door to a new era of advanced mobile services, devices and feature-rich audio and video content, such as AT&T Video ShareSM, a first-of-its-kind technology that allows users to share live video during a wireless call.

“Demand for wireless bandwidth is growing, whether it’s for sharing video and photos with friends, watching a movie, checking the latest scores, or listening to music on a phone, 3G netbook or other mobile devices on the go,” added Jim Thorpe, vice president and general manager for Tennessee and Kentucky, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets.

Recently, AT&T announced plans to upgrade its 3G network to deliver considerably faster mobile broadband speeds. The network upgrades are slated to begin later this year, with completion expected in 2011. The upgrade to High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) 7.2 technology is part of AT&T’s plan for continued investments to deliver the nation’s best mobile broadband experience – the ideal combination of speed, coverage and best device line-up.

AT&T’s 3G mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most open and widely used wireless network platforms in the world. As a result, only AT&T can offer 3G data roaming in more than 80 countries, as well as voice calling in more than 215 countries. AT&T’s 3G network is now available in more than 350 U.S. major metropolitan areas.

AT&T also enables unsurpassed choice and openness in the range of devices, services and applications compatible with its 3G network. AT&T offers a wide variety of devices from more than a dozen manufacturers, including handsets that are compatible with six different operating systems and five different e-mail applications. Our Media Mall 2.0 offers more than 90,000 content options, and customers can download virtually any application over the Internet. Additionally, AT&T supports a community of more than 20,000 application developers via its devCentral portal.

“This investment for a stronger wireless network will help attract business and strengthen our local economy,” said Rep. Joe Pitts (House District 67, Montgomery County). “We appreciate AT&T for their continued investments in Tennessee and for bringing 3G to the residents of Clarksville.”

AT&T has more than 6,500 employees in Tennessee and operates 39 AT&T-owned retail locations across the state, including the local Clarksville store at 2560 Wilma Rudolph Blvd. AT&T’s products and services are also available at a number of other authorized dealers and national retail locations.

For more information about AT&T’s wireless coverage in Tennessee or anywhere in the United States, consumers can go to http://www.wireless.att.com/coverageviewer/. The online tool can measure the quality of coverage based on a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.

TDOT’s communications office issued a press release reporting Governor Bredesen and Transportation Department Commissioner Gerald Nicely announcing $17 million in transportation enhancement grants for projects in 39 Tennessee communities and one statewide grant. The grants will be used to assist local communities in developing a variety of projects designed to enhance the state’s transportation infrastructure.

“The Enhancement Grant Program provides an opportunity for the state to work with local agencies to fund projects that enrich Tennessee communities in a variety of ways,” said Bredesen. “Many will use these funds to build new sidewalks and bike trails that support healthier lifestyles, while others utilize the program to save historic structures for future generations. All of these are worthwhile projects that truly enhance the quality of life in local communities.”

Pictured from left to right: (bottom row) Fred Mudge, TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely, Mayor Johnny Piper, Governor Phil Bredesen, County Mayor Carolyn Bowers, Ed Davis, David Moss (top row) Representative Curtis Johnson, Representative Joe Pitts, Senator Tim Barnes

Locally, the state will provide Montgomery County with an enhancement grant of $945,926 to assist with the development of the RJ Corman Railroad Bridge Rehabilitation Project – Phase I. The bridge is located on Riverside Drive in downtown Clarksville, near the historic Clarksville Welcome sign. The rehabilitation project will greatly enhance the aesthetic visual quality of the Clarksville River District, improve the bridge’s structural integrity and safety, and will further economic development and urban renewal efforts.

“This bridge is an important piece of Clarksville’s past and its future,” said Governor Bredesen. “I’m pleased we could provide the funds necessary to rehabilitate the bridge and transform it into a beautiful gateway into the city’s historic river district.”

Senator Tim Barnes added, “I’m pleased to support a project that will preserve an important piece of Clarksville’s history for generations to come.” “I’m pleased Governor Bredesen and TDOT are providing these funds for the continued improvement of Montgomery County,” said Representative Joe Pitts. “This project will encourage more people to visit and enjoy another of the historic sites our city has to offer.”

“Clarksville is committed to making the river district a wonderful area for residents and visitors,” said Representative Curtis Johnson. “I thank the state for making this investment in Montgomery County.” “This bridge is so unique and rich with history,” added Representative Phillip Johnson. “A project to preserve this structure for Montgomery County has my full support.”

“Through the Transportation Enhancement Grant Program, TDOT has helped fund approximately $205 million in transportation related projects,” said Nicely. “The program was established by Congress in the early 1990’s to fund activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic and environmental aspects of the nation’s transportation system.”

A variety of activities such as the restoration of historic facilities, bike and pedestrian trails, landscaping and other non-traditional transportation projects are eligible for grant funds under the federal program.

The Montgomery County project will include construction engineering, the sand blast cleaning and painting of the bridge’s steel components, and the rehabilitation of the swing span control building.

The grant is made possible through a federally funded program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation. For a list of grant recipients and detailed information on each grant please visit: www.tdot.state.tn.us//news/2009/enhancementgrants.htm. For more information, contact TDOT Communications Office, 615-741-2331.

Rep. Joe Pitts (D) House, District 67

In a difficult economy, many state governments have turned to cutting education funds in order to make up the difference in revenue shortfalls. In Tennessee, we recognize that a child’s ability to receive a quality education is potentially the most important event in their lives and that opportunity must be protected, even in difficult financial times.

This year, the General Assembly passed the budget keeping the Pre-K funds in place on a recurring basis, instead of the risky ruse of using lottery reserves for this necessary program. The state is required to continue paying for the program in future years and not be subject to cuts based on limited resources. Also included in our budget was funding for scholarships for our National Guard veterans.

The following is a list of legislation that I voted for and was passed by the Tennessee General Assembly with an effective date of July 1, 2009

• Public Chapter 38 – As enacted, removes restrictions on commercial advertising on school buses that requires such advertising to be composed of black lettering on a white background; prohibits advertisement of individual food items that, pursuant to law, cannot be sold via vending machines to students in pre-K through grade 8. – Amends TCA Section 49-6-2109(e).
• Public Chapter 127 – As enacted, places restrictions on universal mental health testing, or psychiatric or socioemotional screening of juveniles; requires certain consent by a juvenile’s parent, guardian, legal custodian, or caregiver before such testing can occur. – Amends TCA Title 9, Chapter 4 and Title 49, Chapter 2, Part 1.
• Public Chapter 153 – As enacted, requires, rather than encourages, school districts to include certain criteria in policies prohibiting harassment, intimidation, or bullying. – Amends TCA Section 49-6-1016.
• Public Chapter 160 – As enacted, authorizes courts to notify the school of a child who is adjudicated delinquent based on an offense for which school notification is not mandatory under law. – Amends TCA Title 37, Chapter 1 and Title 49, Chapter 6.
• Public Chapter 262 – As enacted, removes requirement of passage of the Tennessee comprehensive assessment program tests in order to receive a full diploma; provides for end-of-course assessments; revises lottery scholarship day provisions. – Amends TCA Title 49.
• Public Chapter 283 – As enacted, restates provisions governing reporting of suspected child abuse by personnel of educational institutions and release of related records. – Amends TCA Title 10; Title 37 and Title 49.
• Public Chapter 315 – As enacted, requires written referrals for student’s behavior to be returned to faculty or staff member issuing the referral; referral to be kept in a student discipline file and not part of student’s permanent record. – Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 6.

State Senator Tim Barnes and State Representative Joe Pitts

Senator Tim Barnes and I sponsored legislation (Public Chapter 204) changing the American History course requirements for a baccalaureate degree. Students enrolled in Tennessee Board of Regents schools were required to take 6 credit hours of American History but their UT counterparts did not have the same requirement. That presented problems for students transferring from one school to another. Now both systems follow the same guideline which help our college students and prevents them from repeating courses over time. This legislation was brought to me by a constituent that felt that Board of Regents colleges such as Austin Peay should be in line with the University of Tennessee system so that credits would be transferable from one system to the other.

It was a privilege to co-sponsor legislation (HJR 0079), passed by the House of Representatives, and is awaiting passage by the Senate that calls on the citizens of Tennessee to assure that every child is in a safe place reading together with a caring adult. It also states that the Tennessee General Assembly enthusiastically endorses NEA’s and TEA’s “Read Across America” program and recommits our state to engage in programs and activities to make America’s children the best readers in the world.

If you have ideas for laws that should be passed, that need to be repealed, or you need assistance dealing with any state departments, or about issues involving a state agency or department, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me by e-mail at rep.joe..gov or by phone as 1-800-449-8366, ext. 12043.

State Senator Tim Barnes and State Representative Joe Pitts speaking at Veterans Plaza during the 2008 Election.

NASHVILLE – Senator Tim Barnes and Representative Joe Pitts co-sponsored legislation that will make it easier for organizations that feed the homeless to do their work.

The legislation, which passed unanimously in both the Senate and the House, allows not-for-profit groups to provide meals for the homeless without paying costly permit fees that govern restaurants and other commercial food service establishments.

“These organizations and the good folks that run them depend on donations to do their work,” Senator Barnes said. “Their resources, especially in times like these, are small, and the need for their services is great.

“Sen. Barnes and I became aware of this problem by working with Loaves and Fishes,” Rep. Pitts said. “Loaves and Fishes provides invaluable services to Montgomery County, and with this legislation, they will no longer have to bear the costly burden that regulations would place on them.”

Loaves and Fishes is located in Clarksville and serves 150-200 meals from 10:30 a.m. until noon six days a week. They have operated a food kitchen and food distribution center for 25 years.

The legislation co-sponsored by Senator Barnes and Representative Pitts also makes allowances for non-profit volunteer organizations that provide food and lodging for families of out-of-town children undergoing medical treatment – such as the Ronald McDonald Houses.

Sen. Tim Barnes represents Cheatham, Houston, and Montgomery Counties. You can contact his office at sen.tim..gov or 1-800-449-8366, extension 1-2374 or 305 War Memorial Building, Nashville, TN 37243-0222.

Rep. Pitts represents Montgomery County. You can contact his office at rep.joe..gov or 1-800-449-8366, extension 1-2043 or 109 War Memorial Building, Nashville, TN 37243-0222.

Tennessee State Capitol

On Thursday, the House overwhelmingly passed the “Tennessee Clean Energy Future Act,” a bill designed to reduce Tennessee energy consumption as well as help expand opportunities to bring more green technology jobs to the state.

“Green legislation is more than just being good for the environment,” said Pitts. “This bill is about saving taxpayers money, expanding job opportunities for unemployed Tennesseans and doing our part for national security by making Tennessee more energy independent,”

Under the new bill, state government will attempt to lead by renovating state building to be more energy efficient, replacing the state’s aging car fleet with alternative fuel and energy efficient vehicles, and providing tax incentives to green technology companies that relocate to Tennessee.

“The more we cut down on our state’s energy use, the more savings we can hopefully put back in the pockets of working Tennesseans,” said Pitts. “These improvements to state government mean more efficient building and cars and continue to put Tennessee at the forefront of green technology.”

In addition to the new state standards, the bill also encourages residential standards be placed on all new home constructions in Tennessee. The legislation is subject to the will of local governments, so any county or city commission not wanting to adopt the energy-efficient requirements can opt out of the program. With Tennessee being one of the top states for wasted residential energy use, the standards are expected to greatly reduce the cost on new homeowners.

“These residential standards mean lower energy bills, safer construction and better resale value in the future,” said Pitts. “It’s a win for the environment, for the homeowner and the state of Tennessee.”

The House version of the bill now heads back to the Senate where it will be voted on later this week.

Tennessee State Capitol Bldg

In bipartisan action this week the House of Representatives took action to pass legislation through the legislature. Under “the Long-Term Care Community Choices Act of 2008,” the legislature charged the Tennessee Department of Finance & Administration and Tennessee Department of Health to create a foundation for providing Tennessee’s seniors with the information and necessary resources for choosing the best retirement options.

On Thursday, the Tennessee House of Representatives, in a bipartisan effort that included District 67 Rep. Joe Pitts, (D-Clarksville), unanimously passed the second of four bills designed to expand retirement opportunities for seniors in Tennessee. Passage of the “Adult Care Home Act of 2009” builds on that foundation by creating standards of practice and review for a new kind of residential alternative: Level 2 Adult Care Homes. Residents who qualify under the bill are more critical need-based members who are either ventilator-dependent or who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.

“The seniors of today are living longer and stronger than those just twenty or thirty years ago and, as a state, we have a responsibility to provide our greatest generation with different options in how they want to spend retirement,” said Pitts.

“As we have continued to build on the Tennessee long-term care system, the focus has been first to implement a program that can provide choices to those most in need,” said Pitts. “With this new legislation, I believe we have taken that step and can now start looking to expand even further.”

Under the new guidelines, level 2 adult care homes are small, homelike settings in local communities that deliver licensed care from residential managers who are licensed professionals. Providers with ventilator dependent residents must be doctors, nurses or respiratory therapists. For those suffering from a traumatic brain injury that list expands to include licensed rehabilitation or mental health professionals. Finally, these homes may have no more than five (5) residents living in the home at one time.

Pitts added that, “adult care homes are programs that are already seeing great success in other states around the county. These new homes will help improve the choices senior Tennesseans have when it comes to retirement.”

The legislation is expected to pass quickly in the Senate later this week and be ready for the governor’s signature before the end of the session.

Agricultural Commissioner Ken Givens along with State Rep. Joe Pitts (D-Clarksville) has announced the Tennessee Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program. Most applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis and should be filled out completely. Applications cannot be postmarked earlier than June 1. The deadline for submission is July 1.

According to Pitts, “Agriculture continues to be one of the most important industries we have here in Tennessee and these grants means hundreds of farms across the state have a better chance of being here for years to come.”

This year’s program offers the same menu of cost share opportunities as last year, including livestock equipment, cattle genetics, hay storage, feed storage, grain storage and producer diversification opportunities. To date, TAEP has provided cost share funds for more than 15,000 projects. A recent study has shown that for every state dollar invested, an additional $4.64 is generated in local economic activity.

Ted Givens, Commissioner-TN Dept. of Agriculture

“This year, there may be fewer total dollars to go around, but the Ag Enhancement Program remains strong and we expect to be able to put several millions of dollars on the ground to help farmers make strategic investments,” said Givens. “We expect another year of high demand for these cost share opportunities, so farmers should apply early.”

New for agritourism operators is the Tourist-Oriented Directional Signs (TODS) cost share opportunity. Through TAEP, agritourism operators can receive cost share funds to purchase TODS featuring TDA’s well known red barn icon. These signs can be used along Tennessee highways to direct motorist to agritourism venues.

TAEP is a state funded program established by Governor Phil Bredesen and supported by the General Assembly to increase farm income in Tennessee by helping farmers invest in better farming practices and by encouraging diversification and innovation.

Through TAEP, farmers can qualify for 35 or 50 percent cost share ranging from a maximum of $1,200 to $15,000 on a variety of projects.

Applications are available at most farm agencies and farm supply stores including USDA Farm Service Agency, UT Extension, Farm Bureau and Tennessee Farmers Co-op locations.  Producers can get important messages and updates on the program by calling 800-342-8206.

For more information or to download an application, visit www.TN.gov/agriculture/enhancement.

NASHVILLE – On Wednesday State Representative Joe Pitts (D-Clarksville), along with thirty-nine other House Democrats and two Republicans, voted down a bill that would have allowed coal mining companies to dump unacceptable levels of selenium into local streams and rivers.

“The overwhelming scientific evidence cited in committee testimony indicated the proposed levels of this dangerous mineral would be intolerable for humans or animals,” said Pitts. “We chose to maintain a safer position than to risk the public health over something that can’t be undone if we make a mistake and today we said enough is enough.”

Selenium

Fish deformities caused by exposure to Selenium

House Bill 1204 by Rep. Joe McCord (R-Maryville) would have increased the toxic effluent limitations of the substance known as selenium. Inorganic selenium is present in water in two key forms and is highly toxic to fish and wildlife.

Under the proposed legislation, Tennessee standards on selenium could not be any more stringent than the recommended national criteria established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, the bill also goes further and adopts a proposed 2004 standard not recognized as the official standard of the EPA. Current EPA standards established in 1984 recognize the maximum level of selenium at 5ug/g. Under HB1204, that standard would be weakened to 7.9ug/g.

Dr. A. Dennis Lemly

In a report presented by Dr. A. Dennis Lemly, the original scientist in charge of developing the revised selenium standard, he writes that there are “several egregious errors bias EPA’s draft selenium criterion” and the report “dangerously overestimates the safely tolerable tissue-based number.” The report goes on to say that the suggested standard of 7.9ug/g “would allow up to 85% of fish and aquatic birds to be poisoned.”

“As Legislators, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of our state, and to do what we can to protect it for the next generation of Tennesseans to come,” said Pitts. “Poisoning our fish and wildlife, and ruining drinking water for the sake of coal production is not the definition of being a good steward.”

In response to questions, EPA Acting Regional Administrator A. Stanley Meiburg wrote a letter stating that the standard being proposed by HB1204 is “not an adopted or recommended standard or even a proposed rule” and that “the EPA is still working on a selenium standard based on analysis of fish tissue to set a selenium level which protects against the chronic effects of selenium as it builds up in fish and other aquatic life.”

Selenium bioconcentration in duck embryos can cause deformities such as malformed beaks and feet (middle embryo) and low embryo survivability (left & right embryos were dead at time of collection). (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.)

“This legislature is trying to take Tennessee into the 21st Century and with it bring green jobs and opportunities all across our state,” said Pitts. “How can we promote a new generation of green workers if we continue to destroy the natural resources that we have?”

The bill failed to reach the required 50 votes necessary for passage and has now been referred to the House Calendar and Rules Committee. The measure may still be brought up before the end of session later this month.

Clarksville area residents now have a new choice for their television and communications services powered by the most advanced technology. AT&T* today announced the launch of AT&T U-verseSM services in parts of Clarksville, including AT&T U-verse TV and AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet. The introduction of these new services in Clarksville is part of an ongoing expansion of AT&T U-verse availability across the Nashville-area and Middle Tennessee, where AT&T U-verse launched in December 2008.

Paul Mahaney, AT&T Supervisor; Greg Poston, AT&T Area Manager; Jonathan Bumpus, Outside Plant Technician; State Representative Curtis Johnson; Lanie Johnson, AT&T Legislative and External Affairs; State Representative Joe Pitts; Alison Hayes, AT&T Service Technician/U-verse Field Support; Mike Watson, AT&T Network Manager.

AT&T U-verse services, which are all delivered over AT&T’s advanced Internet Protocol (IP) network, offer a new alternative to cable and an unmatched experience for customers. AT&T U-verse brings together your TV, broadband and AT&T wireless services – all on one bill – with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control. AT&T U-verse TV ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction in the South Region,” according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Residential Television Service Provider Satisfaction StudySM.

“Today’s expansion of AT&T U-verse reflects our commitment to make the investments necessary to bring consumers in Clarksville a new era of true video competition,” said Gregg Morton, AT&T Tennessee president. “We are thrilled to offer this innovative video choice to Clarksville consumers. Local residents have asked for more choices in television service and today we’re delivering.”

AT&T is introducing U-verse services in Tennessee thanks to The Competitive Cable and Video Services Act of 2008, HB 1421. The law, signed by Gov. Bredesen back in May, provides an environment that encourages new video providers, such as AT&T to invest in Tennessee to compete against incumbent cable providers. On the first day that this new law became effective, AT&T Tennessee filed its initial application for a state-issued certificate of franchise authority to offer video services in communities across the state.

“AT&T has invested heavily in our community in advanced wireless and wireline infrastructure and they’re a great community citizen,” said Rep. Curtis Johnson, House District 68 (Montgomery County).  “Making U-verse available to us as a video option shows AT&T’s continued commitment to Clarksville.”

More Choice, Advanced Features

AT&T U-verse TV is the only 100 percent Internet Protocol-based television (IPTV) service offered by a national service provider, making AT&T U-verse one of the most dynamic and application-rich services available today, with advanced capabilities that customers don’t get from other providers.

“Cable has been the only game in town for too long, and we’re excited to change that today in Clarksville,” said Bryan Klamer, general manager, AT&T Tennessee. “We know Clarksville customers want a better choice to break free from cable, and AT&T U-verse is the answer. And we’ll continue to make U-verse TV even better for customers with regular upgrades and new cool applications that enhance your TV experience.”

Where AT&T U-verse services are available, local U-verse TV customers can enjoy numerous TV benefits, including the ability to watch recorded programs from a single DVR on any connected TV in the house with U-verse Total Home DVR; an extensive High Definition (HD) channel lineup with more than 100 HD channels; the ability to program DVR recordings from your Web-connected mobile phone or PC; personalized, on-screen weather, sports, traffic and stock information via AT&T U-bar; the ability to view personal photos on your TV that you have uploaded to flickr.com; the ability to check the current weather conditions and forecasts in any U.S. city with Weather On Demand; and more.

“We are thrilled that AT&T has brought their cutting edge video service, U-verse TV, to the Clarksville area,” said Rep. Phillip Johnson, House District 78 (Cheatham, Montgomery and Williamson County).

With AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet services, every AT&T U-verse customer or small business broadband user can enjoy faster available speeds. Packages include a range of speeds, with the fastest downstream speeds up to 18 Mbps. All AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet packages include wireless home or office networking at no extra cost, and access to the nation’s largest Wi-Fi network with unlimited connectivity at nearly 20,000 hot spot locations.

AT&T U-verse offers multiple combinations of TV and Internet packages to customize your experience. The most popular AT&T U-verse TV offers start at $49 a month (taxes, fees and other monthly charges apply). Professional installation is included, and you also get a 30-day money-back guarantee.

“We are excited about this new cutting edge technology,” said Rep. Joe Pitts, House District 67 (Montgomery County). “The expansion of AT&T U-verse supports economic growth and increases consumer choice.”

AT&T U-verse customers who want the complete home entertainment experience can also benefit from AT&T ConnecTech, an in-home care solution for virtually any technology or entertainment need, including computer, networking, TV, home theater installation, repair and maintenance. For more information, visit www.att.com/connectech.

For additional information on AT&T U-verse – or to find out if it’s available in your area – visit http://uverse.att.com, call 800-ATT-2020 or visit the following AT&T retail location at 2560 Wilma Rudolph Blvd. in Clarksville.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services, the nation’s fastest 3G network and the best wireless coverage worldwide, and the nation’s leading high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of their three-screen integration strategy, AT&T operating companies are expanding their TV entertainment offerings. In 2009, AT&T again ranked No. 1 in the telecommunications industry on FORTUNE® magazine’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.

Rep. Joe Pitts (D) House, District 67

Nashville – This week State Representative Joe Pitts (D-Clarksville) and members of the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee pushed important legislation designed to protect consumers and local car dealers from the recent American automobile industry crisis. The bill has broad bipartisan support and is expected to move swiftly through both the House and Senate.

“While the housing market was a key player in our economy’s recent slowdown, the uncertainty of the American automobile industry has played a major role as well,” said Pitts. “We must do everything we can to protect consumers and our local car dealers who support their local communities. We must give them the support they need to weather the economic storm.”

Under House Bill 1751, specific funds would be protected for the benefit of consumers and local dealers. This legislation ensures monies paid or obligations owed are fulfilled in the event of a manufacturer bankruptcy. Examples include:

• Uninterrupted consumer warranty repairs or maintenance
• Protecting consumer rights under the Tennessee Lemon Law in the event of a manufacturer bankruptcy
• Pay-off of loans on trade-ins and payment of sales taxes, title and registration fees
• Ensuring obligations owed to dealers for customer rebates, employee buy-out vouchers, and warranty repair payments are paid

“In the end, businesses cannot survive without delivering on their promises. This legislation will ensure that local car dealers can continue to make good on their promises to the consumer and the big automakers make good on their promises to their local car dealerships,” said Pitts.

“Local dealers are continuing to sell cars and take care of their customers. Car sales are what are going to get us through these tough financial times,” said Pitts. “We have to protect them and the consumers buying cars for the long-term if we really want to get our economy back on track.”

The Color guard approaches

It’s always a solemn occasion when a nation gathers to honor its soldiers, those who lived to come home, but even more importantly those who did not. There are 33 missing POW/MIA’s from the State of Tennessee. Each one was honored in a ceremony on Public Square in Clarksville this Sunday evening.

The Memorial Day Candle light vigil is held by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 396. This is the 20th consecutive year for the ceremony. It was first held in 1989, the same year the local chapter was chartered. The initial list contained a total of 43 names, since that time 9 comrades have found their way home, the latest in 2005.

The colors were posted as an honor guard of Montgomery Central High School JROTC Students stood a silent vigil around the war memorial on public square. Then a single chair representing all of the POW/MIA’s nationwide was placed in a position of honor before the audience. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and a moment of silence was held. Then Rev. Elijah Oliver of delivered the invocation.

State Senator Tim Barnes was introduced and spoke a few words.

State Senator Tim Barnes addresses the crowd

Thank you, I just want to say what a honor it is to be here at this occasion. That we mark the contributions of so many, who gave so much.

I was about 8, 9 years old when my older brother went to this foreign land that I had never heard of before. It was about at that time that I and the rest of this nation were learning the names of these places. Like Đà Nẵng, Long Bien, and Palku. And it seems like forever ago that I remember that time. And I remember hearing about all those who did not come back. And that is what we are here for.

Ah! My brother did make it back, but unfortunately about two months after he got back he was killed in a car wreck.

And that was my first opportunity to see a military funeral, and I can tell you as 11 year old child and it’s something to, to watch as a child, to see that salute, to hear the bugler in the distance which I am convinced is the saddest sound on the face of the earth. And to have that, in this case an airman with white gloves on, turn and bend down to my mother and hand that flag and say, “On behalf of a grateful nation”.

And I know during that time 1970 it was July of 1970. All across the country there was so many mothers who were receiving those flags, on behalf of a grateful nation. And the only thing I have to say here is that I will never forget that, and I hope that indeed, we are a grateful nation.

Then State Representative Joe Pitts was introduced…

State Rep. Joe Pitts Addresses the crowd

Thank you Gary, and thank you to all who are here this evening, on this solemn occasion. This is one of my favorite, favorite times during our Memorial Day holiday, just primarily because we pause, and call out those names individually those, who have served but never returned. I also want to say thank you to Rev. Pastor Johnny Conway and Robert Warren his wingman, and brother Elijah oliver and others who continues to serve with the Veterans Temporary Assistance program. Your service gentlemen should not go unrecognized.

I won’t sit here and try to recite a bunch of dates because we all know the genesis, and the beginning of Memorial Day. I just want to tell a couple of stories if I could. I had a speech prepared but I am just gonna put that aside.

I remember much like Sen Barnes being an 11 year old child in December of 1969 when the mother of one of my classmates in sixth grade, came to the classroom and took out my classmate, his name was Mark. And she took him out and uh told him his father had been killed in Vietnam. And I remember that crystallized the war for me. Because I remember that Mark was gone for a couple of weeks, and when he came back, he was never the same.

Something that I want to recall those who served, and those who were wounded. My father’s in the audience tonight he’s a Korean war purple heart veteran and when he speaks of that experience which is not very often. He speaks with great reverence, but also with great reservation, because as he says “the purple heart club is a club you don’t want to be asked to join”.

We are pausing tonight to recognize those who are missing, those who are unaccounted for, those who served and did not return.

It was my honor to speak on Friday at the opening ceremonies in Oak Grove for the traveling wall, the Vietnam memorial wall thats so beautifully displayed in that park setting, in Oak Grove. And there are more than 58,000 names on that wall. But among the 58,000 names there are over 1,200 which represent those who didn’t return, or are unaccounted for. We are stopping tonight to recognize and pay tribute to them. So to those families who still have question marks in their lives, we just want to say thank you for your service. We also want to say thank you to these men and women who are going to be bringing the chairs as we call the names forward tonight. And I think that is the most telling part of this particular ceremony is when they come with great reverence and awe and respect for their fallen and missing comrade, that we stop and pause.

So this weekend, at this moment, and at this time, and in this place lets never forget those who didn’t come home, and those who went, but didn’t come home alive. God Bless you and God bless America!

Members of the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club, Legacy Veterans Motorcycle Club, and the 2nd Brigade Motorcycle Club prepare to do their duty to their comrades

During the ceremony, The thirty three names were slowly read aloud, the bell pealed, as someone in the background intoned “Absent, but not forgotten.” The flame was lit. The empty chair, draped with a POW/MIA shirt and a placard, identifying the missing solider that it represented, was carried forward by a fellow veteran, who once it was in place stepped up before it, and rendered a silent salute.

A chair is put into place as the crowd and color guard looks on

One final note. Ward 5 City Council Member Candy Johnson was the only City Representative to show up, the rest were not in attendance.  She is to be highly commended.

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The POW/MIA’s

Below are the names of the missing Tennesseans. We offer our fervent hope that they too all find their way home once more.

Major Howard V. Andre Jr.
USAF
Memphis, TN
July 8^th 1969

1^st Lieutenant John R. Baldridge Jr.
USAF
Memphis, TN
November 20^th 1969

Lance Corporal James A. Benton
USMC
Daisy, TN
April 27^th 1967

Specialist 4^th Class Dwight A. Bremmer
U.S. Army
Oakland, TN
December 14^th 1971

Specialist 4^th Class James A. Brown
U.S. Army
Humbolt, TN
August 12, 1970

Lieutenant Colonel Donald F. Casey
USAF
Chattanooga, TN
June 23^rd 1968

Sergeant Echol W. Coalston Jr.
U.S. Army
Memphis, TN
January 21^st 1968

Corporal James B. Conway
U.S. Army
Franklin, TN
April 13^th 1966

1^st Lieutenant Larry W. Cotton
USAF
Nashville, TN
March 9^th 1970

Lieutenant Commander Carroll O. Crain Jr.
U.S. Navy
Memphis, TN
March 8^th 1967

Lance Corporal Richard H. Dallas
USMC
Memphis, TN
April 27^th 1967

Private First Class Joe L. Delong
U.S. Army
McMinnville, TN
May 18^th 1967

Specialist 4^th Class Billy J. Ellis
U.S. Army
Elizabethton, TN
January 3^rd 1968

Sergeant Donald P. Gervais
U.S. Army
Clarksville, TN
May 1^st 1968

1^st Lieutenant Gary A. Glandon
USAF
Powell, TN
May 26^th 1966

Seaman Apprentice Thomas A. Goetsch
U.S. Navy
Memphis, TN
September 17, 1972

Captain Lucius L. Heiskell
USAF
Memphis, TN
February 6^th 1967

Specialist 4^th Class Jerry A. Hiemer
U.S. Army
Memphis, TN
November 11^th 1965

Private First Class James D. Hunter
U.S. Army
Portland, TN
October 29^th 1968

Major Dale A. Johnson
USAF
Elizabethton, TN
November 27^th 1966

1^st Lieutenant Richard C. Lannom
USMC
Union City, TN
March 1^st 1968

Captain William T. McPhail
U.S. Navy
Chattanooga, TN
May 22^nd 1968

Petty Officer 1^st Class James C. Newman Jr.
U.S. Navy
Knoxville, TN
February 6^th 1968

Sergeant Calvin A. Norris
U.S. Army
Monterey, TN
November 3^rd 1970

Specialist 4^th Class Marvin E. Phillips
U.S. Army
Gruetli-Langer
September 26^th 1966

Chief Warrant Officer Kenneth L. Stancil
U.S. Army
Chattanooga, TN
December 28^th 1965

Major Lawerence B. Tatum
U.S. Army
Chattanooga, TN
September 10^th 1966

Lieutenant Colonel James A. Treece
USAF
Memphis, TN
October 7^th 1966

Major Woodrow W. Vaden
USAF
Clarksville, TN
December 10^th 1964

1^st Lieutenant John T. Welshan
USAF
Oak Ridge, TN
March 3^rd 1968

Colonel David R. Williams
USAF
Memphis, TN
April 1^st 1967

Captain William C. Woods Jr.
USAF
Paris, TN
September 2^nd 1972

Staff Sergeant Lawerence Woods
USAF
Clarksville, TN
October 24^th 1964

The House Democrat Review is a weekly feature that gives Tennesseans an in-depth look at what our Democratic state legislators have been working on this week, and a glimpse into what’s planned for the coming week at our state house. This week:

• Unemployment
• Education

House Democrats sponsor bill to let unemployed go back to school

Legislation allows laid off workers to retain unemployment benefits while going back to school

NASHVILLE – On Thursday, State Representative Joe Pitts (D-Clarksville), along with all present members of the Tennessee House of Representatives, voted to give laid off Tennesseans the ability to go back to school without losing their unemployment.

“There are tens of thousands of Tennesseans who have lost their jobs during this economic slowdown and currently they can’t go back to school without losing the one thing keeping them from being out on the street,” said Pitts. “We should be helping these people retrain for the jobs of tomorrow, not forcing them to choose between a roof over their head or the classes they need to succeed in tomorrow’s economy.”

Under the legislation sponsored by State Representatives Joe Towns (D-Memphis), G.A. Hardaway (D-Memphis) and Henry Fincher (D-Cookeville), a person who is currently receiving unemployment benefits due to losing their job would not be denied those benefits if they choose to go back to college while they continue their search for new employment.

“We have people of every age and background no longer able to find work because their skills don’t match the available jobs,” said Pitts. “This legislation allows people to gain the skills they need without having to sacrifice the only source of income available to them.”

The bill passed the House unanimously 96-0 and will now wait on the Senate to take action on the measure. Earlier this month the bill was placed in the General Subcommittee of Commerce, Labor and Agriculture. The United States Congress is also slated to take up similar legislation later this year.

The legislation makes it illegal for anyone to buy a gun when they are prohibited from owning one. It also makes it illegal to knowingly sell a gun to anyone who is prohibited from owning a firearm.

“This legislation has been in the works since the untimely death of Coach Ross, who was my little league baseball coach” Rep. Pitts said. “We introduced this legislation after a letter from his family who wanted to give our law enforcement officers another tool to help keep guns out of the hands of criminals.”

Senator Barnes said:

The death of Coach Ross was shocking to our community. Coach Ross was a great man, whose death was tragic and untimely.

The passage of this legislation, the Coach Willard Ross Act of 2009, is a way in which we can honor his memory and in some measure deter this type of violence.

The bill has been passed in both the Senate and the House and will go to the governor.

About Senator Tim Barnes

Senator Tim Barnes represents Montgomery, Cheatham and Houston counties. Contact his office at sen.tim..gov or (615) 741-2374 or 305 War Memorial Building, Nashville, TN 37243-0217.