Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

It's the Holiday season and a great time to try a new and delicious recipe.

Here's one for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins:

Ingredients
1/2 Cup brown sugar
1/4 Cup white sugar
2 eggs
3/4 Cup canned pumpkin
1/4 Cup water
1/4 Cup butter, melted
1 1/2 Cups all purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3/4 Cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Grease and flour muffin pan or use paper liners.
2. Mix sugars, butter, and eggs. Add pumpkin and water. In separate bowl mix together flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and salt. Add wet mixture and stir in chocolate chips.
3. Fill muffin cups 2/3 full with batter. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.

These are simple to make, delicious, and a great snack or breakfast. They are amazing with a cup of coffee.

Want to share your favorite Holiday recipe? Sent it to newshendersonville@gmail.com

Taxing Hypocrisy

County Commissioner Merrol Hyde likes to tell the public that he's against higher taxes. He says that schools and other departments can get along just fine without additional county revenue, they just need to manage their budgets better.

Of course, this is coming from the former County Commission Chairman who presided over one of the worst examples of "borrow and spend" economics in Sumner County history. Rather than raise revenue or budget conservatively, the Commission under Hyde simply raided reserve funds time and again to the point where Sumner County was on the verge of financial insolvency until the current Commission righted the ship.

Hyde has conveniently forgotten the reckless spending of his past, however, and now claims to be a champion of the taxpayers. And by champion, he means the guy who would never, ever raise taxes, no matter how great the cause.

Hyde probably doesn't think too many people remember the not-so-distant past. But, a perusal of County Commission minutes reveals that on 7 occasions on a single night, County Commissioner Merrol Hyde voted for a tax increase.

On August 18th, 2003, the County Commission was faced with a Director of Schools who had presented a budget that required additional funds. Funds not generated by the current level of taxes. Other department heads made similar claims -- that they simply couldn't operate under existing revenue.

The Director of Sumner County Schools in August of 2003 was Merrol Hyde, who also happened to be serving on the County Commission at that time.

Hyde joined a group of Commissioners who pushed for, and ultimately won adoption of, a 45 cent increase in taxes.

On that night, Hyde voted for tax increases of 46 cents, 55 cents, 40 cents, 47 cents, 47 cents, 45 cents, and a final vote for the 45 cent increase that passed. 

It should be noted that each one of those votes would have taken the tax rate above the 2015 rate of $2.50.

Hyde now says the Director of Schools should work harder to trim the budget. But back when he was Director, he had no problem asking his County Commission buddies to raise taxes. He even supported the highest tax increase proposed, 55 cents.

So, in the first months after Hyde's failed leadership, tax rates are lower than rates he's approved of in the past, the era of bailouts has ended, and schools and county departments can move forward on sound footing. Oh, and Sumner County still has one of the lowest tax rates of any county in middle Tennessee.

For more on news in Hendersonville and Sumner County, follow @HvilleNews

Anthony Holt, Taxes, and the Sumner County Budget

County Executive Anthony Holt points out in a recent article in the Hendersonville Standard that the previous County Commission committed to a host of expenditures before they left office ... leaving the new Commission with two choices: Cut budgeted expenses or raise revenue to cover the expenses.

Here's Holt's statement on the issue:

"The majority of these expenses were budgeted and committed to by our previous 'fiscally responsible' County Commission with no attempt made to increase revenue or make corresponding reductions in the county’s budget, leaving our newly elected Commissioners holding the bill."

Among the new expenses is a bailout of the insurance trust, already bailed out in 2013 because the Commission under previous leadership refused to charge adequate premiums or deposit sufficient funds to cover claims.

That Commission, under the leadership of Merrol Hyde, also spent nearly all of the $40 million of reserve funds on recurring expenses, effectively running deficit budgets with no plan to meet expenses.

The new Commission raised revenue in a way that responsibly invests in Sumner County, including supporting schools and other county needs.

The Unspoken Facts about Jim Vaughn's Facts

Over at the new Strong Schools blog there's a piece detailing point-by-point the issues raised by County Commissioner Jim Vaughn's recent article on taxes.

Here's that article:

In a recent article for the Hendersonville Standard, County Commissioner Jim Vaughn raised questions about the budget for our schools, specifically on the need for new investment in schools. Vaughn makes three claims I'd like to address. Vaughn's three claims are:  New investment in schools is not necessary, additional funds for personnel do not help students, and increasing support for schools will not result in improved test scores.

I'd like to begin by noting that Dr. Phillips and the School Board laid out budget plans starting July and in meetings in August. Jim Vaughn was not present at those meetings, even though they were open to the public. The budget was then voted on by the Education Committee of the Sumner County Commission on September 8th. The minutes of that meeting reflect that Vaughn was not present to raise the concerns he voiced on November 21 in a newspaper article. Finally, the School Board's budget was passed at the County Commission meeting of September 15th. At that meeting, Dr. Phillips took questions from Commissioners are the proposed expenditures. Jim Vaughn was not present at that meeting to ask questions, raise concerns, or vote against the budget. Now, more than two months after the budget passed, Jim Vaughn is complaining that he doesn't like parts of it. That's simply disingenuous.

Now, on to his first argument: Vaughn suggests we simply don't need new investment in schools. This is surprising as Vaughn represents the fastest-growing area in Sumner County. A tour of the schools in his district would demonstrate rapid growth.  In fact, over the past 10 years, Sumner County has added around 350 students per year -- or, the equivalent of an entire new elementary or middle school every two years. Part of the planned spending on schools is a 5 year plan to proactively address this rapid growth. It's a plan that maximizes existing space and efficiently spends funds. That is, rather than build a new school every two years, Sumner County will be taking advantage of and improving the facilities it has to manage growth.

Next, Vaughn expresses concern that hiring new teachers means that the School Board is prioritizing personnel over students. Pitting teachers against students is one of the most cynical approaches used by those who don't understand how schools work. Strong teachers impact the lives of students every single day. A growing system needs to have adequate staff to meet the needs of current and future students. The alternative would be larger class sizes and less individual attention. Supporting personnel in the schools directly benefits the students those schools serve. Moreover, the new school system budget includes funds to improve teacher pay and adjust staff pay. This means Sumner County can both attract strong new teachers and keep the great teachers we already have. That's a win for students and their families.

Finally, Vaughn wonders if investing in schools will have an impact on test scores. While that hypothetical proposition will only be answered in time, it is clear that those systems who consistently perform at high levels also invest significantly in their schools. Of the 10 systems that have the highest 3-year ACT average, 9 of them spend more per student than Sumner County. On average, those systems spend $1500 more per student than our system. That is to say, at the very least, there's a correlation between investment in schools and results in terms of student achievement.

I regret that Commissioner Vaughn missed opportunities in September to more fully engage in the school budget process. I hope that going forward, he'll engage with the School Board, his fellow County Commissioners, and the parents and teachers in his district in order to gain a better understanding of the needs of our schools.

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Iced Pumpkin Cookies

It's Holiday time and a great time to share recipes.

Here's a fabulous recipe for Pumpkin Cookies with a Cinnamon Glaze.

They are delicious, and the glaze makes them all the better.

Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Glaze
Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 Cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 can pumpkin puree
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the glaze
2 cups confectioner’s sugar
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
ground cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup of butter and sugars. Add pumpkin, egg, and vanilla to butter mixture, and beat until creamy. Mix in dry ingredients. Drop on cookie sheet by tablespoonfuls, flatten lightly
Bake for 12-13 minutes. Cool cookies, then drizzle with glaze
To make glaze: combine all ingredients, stir well with wire whisk

Want to share your Holiday recipe? Email us at newshendersonville@gmail.com

Don't miss any Hendersonville News, follow us @HvilleNews

Where's Jim?

Where's Jim? That's the question citizens in the 6th County Commission district are likely asking about County Commissioner Jim Vaughn following his recent column in the Hendersonville Standard.

In the column, Vaughn suggests the recently adopted tax rate came as a surprise to him. He further notes that he doesn't understand why the schools need more money and that it's not clear to him Sumner County faced financial disaster if something wasn't changed.

Vaughn might be surpised about the budget and tax issues because meeting minutes from the September 2nd meeting where Commissioners were sworn-in and assigned to committees reflect that Vaughn wasn't present that night.

Minutes from the September 8th meeting where the School Board's budget was voted on by the Education Committee indicate that Vaughn didn't bother showing up for that one, either. And, on September 15th, when County Commissioners voted on the budget for schools, Jim Vaughn wasn't present.

Voters elected Jim Vaughn to serve them by attending meetings, asking questions, and being a part of the process. But it looks like he took most of September off. No word yet on whether Vaughn will return his monthly stipend for September to the General Fund.

Vaughn did show up to the October 20th County Commission meeting. But his November 21st article suggests he wasn't aware of what was going to be discussed at a November 3rd County Commission meeting.

Vaughn says he was surprised a tax increase was being discussed in spite of public notice published on the County Commission website and in the Hendersonville Star News and Gallatin News Examiner on both October 22nd and October 31st. The notice stated clearly the "intent to exceed the certified tax rate."

Further, as a County Commissioner, Vaughn would have received a meeting packet and agenda. So, sometime in the two weeks between when he should have known what was on the agenda and the night of the meeting, Vaughn could have talked to Finance Director David Lawing and found out more about what was going to be recommended.

Finally, Vaughn asserts that the county was well-managed in the past. This must mean he suffers from the same faulty memory currently afflicting fellow Commissioner Merrol Hyde. Vaughn previously served on the budget committee. He was a part of the group that consistently recommended deficit budgets made whole through spending of reserve funds. It was Vaughn who helped craft a taxpayer-funded bailout of the county's failed insurance trust.

As County Commissioner Chris Taylor made clear in an analysis of the budget situation, before the vote to raise taxes, Sumner County was on the verge of financial collapse as early as July, 2015. This because previous leaders, Vaughn among them, steered the ship wrecklessly in the name of never raising taxes.

Now, taxpayers in District 6 are left to wonder: Is Jim Vaughn doing his job? He's not showing up to meetings, he's not paying attention to meeting notices, and he's not taking responsibility for his past failed leadership.

For more on news in Hendersonville, follow @HvilleNews

Merrol's Murky Memory

Apparently, County Commissioner Merrol Hyde has forgotten that under his leadership, Sumner County routinely dipped into reserve funds to balance the budget. He's forgotten that his leadership of the County Commission coincided with budgets that got Sumner County to a point where without an infusion of funds, we'd be bankrupt by July 2015.

He told the Hendersonville Star News on November 7th:

“My problem is this, the old commission did a good job of spending the money they had wisely. We estimated the budget conservatively. We weren’t dipping into reserves. We had plenty of money coming in the next year.”

It seems Hyde has forgotten that back in 2012, the County Commission bailed out its badly mismanaged Insurance Trust to the tune of $3 million. The Commission authorized another $4 million plus in special project spending. All from reserve funds.

Yes, reserve funds.

Which Hyde said his County Commission didn't need to balance the budget.

Except that they did. Because the only way the budget was balanced otherwise was to not properly fund the Insurance Trust so that the County's contributions were artificially low.

In fact, $3 million new dollars are being pumped into the Insurance Trust this year. Because the "old Commission" failed to manage it properly.

Hyde is counting on the public having a short memory. But the evidence is clear: Hyde's leadership was about budgets out of balance and reserve funds paying for bailouts.

Oh, and the last time taxes went up in Sumner County? Merrol Hyde was Director of Schools (and on the County Commission) and presented a budget that was out of balance. His proposed solution? A tax increase.


For more on news in Hendersonville, follow @HvilleNews

JOB: Hair Stylist at Ulta

Ulta in Hendersonville is seeking a Hair Stylist:


Under direct supervision, consults with customers on their hair needs, recommends professional hair care services and products.  A Designer delivers quality technical service with emphasis on the customer’s total look and is responsible for building a request client base through referrals and utilizing promotional materials available, while following all company policies and procedures.  Must be 18 years to apply.

Use your skills, experience & talents to be part of something BEAUTIFUL!  As a Designer you will perform the following essential functions…

•    Acknowledge and greet all Guests and offers friendly, prompt, and courteous service.
•    Utilize product prescriptions sheets to prescribe professional salon products to all salon guests.
•    Meet or exceed all individual sales and productivity goals.
•    Attend all ULTA mandatory educations events and workshops.
•    Assist in store duties (e.g., filling Salon retail displays and shelves.)
•    Adhere to ULTA Salon standards for guest service and cleanliness.
•    Adhere to salon dress code, changing hair color and style frequently.

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For more Hendersonville news and information, follow @HvilleNews

Have a job opening you'd like listed here? Send it to: newshendersonville@gmail.com


 

JOB: Executive Assistant to the President

Vol State is hiring an Executive Assistant to the President:

Job Summary:
Provides direct assistance and advice to the President in achieving goals and objectives with all matters of institutional operations and in the work of the President's administrative Cabinet. Provides efficient and effective administrative management of the Office of the President and facilitates communication between the President and internal and external constituencies. 

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For jobs and other news in the Hendersonville area, follow @HvilleNews

Sumner County Tax Rate Comparison

In light of the recently adjusted Sumner County tax rate, here's a comparison of Sumner County's rate of $2.50 per $100 of assessed value relative to other counties in Middle Tennessee:

Sumner:             $2.50

Cheatham:         $2.78

Montgomery:    $3.14

Robertson:        $2.96

Rutherford:       $2.56

Wilson:             $2.57

Chris Taylor Takes on the Budget

County Commissioner Chris Taylor has prepared a 6-page document that explains the reasoning behind the new property tax rate of $2.50.

Taylor uses charts and graphs and straightforward explanation to note why the County Commission set the rate where it did.

Here are a few highlights:

1) The property tax rate had not been raised or adjusted for inflation since 2003. Real purchasing power has declined by about 21 cents on the dollar over that time period. That means the county brings in the same dollar amount and it buys less and less each year.

2) The previous County Commission borrowed over $22 million from various reserve funds over the past 5 years to make up for the deficit budgets they were running.

3) The County Insurance Trust was bailed out using reserve funds in 2013 and will need another $3 million bailout to remain solvent in 2015. The Commission intends to correct this problem going forward by charging an appropriate rate for benefits and by properly funding the employee portion of benefits

4) Each 1 cent increase on the tax rate generates roughly $400,000

5) Operating funds for schools, including the new Burrus Elementary, account for nearly 18 cents of the increase

6) An additional portion of the increase will be used to pay for capital projects at schools, including a building plan that will both increase space at existing facilities and repair aging HVAC systems.

7) There are 700-800 people in Sumner County without running water. It will cost roughly $30 million to correct this problem -- but once fixed, it will have long-term health and economic development benefits.

YES - you did just read that there are homes in part of Sumner County that in 2014 do NOT have running water. 

The rate was set at $2.50 so as to allow for projected growth and adjust for inflation over time. In other words, the current County Commission did not want to just cover expenses and be faced with a crisis again next year. This rate, explains Taylor, will allow for growth and the accumulation of reserves.

Read his full presentation here.

For more on issues facing Hendersonville, follow @HvilleNews

County Commission Sets Tax Rate

The Sumner County Commission met Monday night and set the new tax rate at $2.50. That's a 42 cent increase over the rate set after the recent appraisal process. The new rate will mean a cost of about $10-13 a month for the average Sumner County homeowner.

The increase was approved after a presentation from Sumner County Finance Director David Lawing made a presentation noting that if there was no new revenue, the county would essentially be out of money by July 1st.

Here's Lawing's presentation.

After years of passing deficit budgets and funding them with reserve funds under the previous Commission leadership, the county ran out of options. The new rate will allow for management of growth in the county, provide funds to improve existing school facilities (significantly reducing reliance on portable classrooms), and shore up the county's finances so a dire situation like this year's can be avoided in the future.

The increase is the first passed in 11 years. The new rate is among the lowest in middle Tennessee and still, in raw dollars, lower than the rate in 1997.

JOB: Executive Director at The Hearth

The Hearth in Hendersonville is hiring an Executive Director.

This is a unique opportunity to join a Premier Assisted Living Company that is genuinely passionate and dedicated to providing exceptional care and well being to the lives of our residents.

The Hearth at Hendersonville is our highly successful Senior Living Community in Tennessee. We have loved our entry into the Tennessee market so much; we have continued to grow with the development of our Community in Franklin, TN as well.
 
As Executive Director, your primary goal is to provide both exemplary management skills and leadership to the property to achieve and maintain the “Live More” quality of life that The Hearth has become synonymous with.

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Have a job you want listed on our site? Email newshendersonville@gmail.com with the details

Hendersonville Election Results

Yesterday, voters in Hendersonville went to the polls to decide on 6 Aldermen and on whether or not wine can be sold in grocery stores.

Here are the results:

WINE in GROCERY STORES:

YES -- 72%
NO  --  28%

Alderman, Ward 1

Rosa Long ran unopposed and will return to the BOMA

Alderman, Ward 2

Pat Campbell -- 62%
Barry Hardwick -- 38%

Alderman, Ward 3

Arlene Cunningham -- 62%
Angie Hedburg -- 38%

Alderman, Ward 4

Steve Brown -- 51%
Kurt Riley -- 49%

Alderman, Ward 5

Hamilton Frost -- 54%
Matt Lawson -- 46%

Alderman, Ward 6

Matt Stamper -- 70%
Jim Hoback -- 15%
Sam Parks III -- 15%

For more news about Hendersonville, Tennessee follow @HvilleNews

Sumner's Brown Named Finalist for Top State Ed Post

Jennifer Brown, Sumner County's Assistant Director of Schools for Curriculum and Instruction, has been named a finalist for the position of Executive Director of the State Board of Education, the Tennessean has reported.

The State Board of Education is the state's education policy-making body. The Board makes rules and policies which govern K-12 education in the state. The Executive Director serves as the administrator of the Board and makes policy recommendations.

Current Executive Director Gary Nixon is retiring after 44 years of service in public education.

Tennessee Department of Education Assistant Commissioner Sara Heyburn and State Board of Education Deputy Director David Sevier are the other two finalists. Interviews will be conducted on Wednesday, October 29th.

For more Hendersonville and Sumner County news, follow @HvilleNews

JOB: Executive Assistant

HFG, a part of Kemmons Wilson Companies, seeks an experienced and skilled Executive Assistant to support the President of the company and provide service to key clients of the company.  Experience in the life/health insurance/ employee benefits industry would be ideal. Outgoing personality, administrative excellence and team orientation are essential traits. 

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JOB: Warehouse Entrepreneur

I need an intelligent, organized and detail oriented person with strong computer skills to work with me at my warehouse.  Duties are incredibly varied; most of them are warehouse and e-commerce oriented: packing boxes, managing inventory, shipping orders, using a computer to keep track of the various websites where orders are generated.
You need minimal specific experience, however you must be highly self-directed and able to work with minimal supervision on both simple repetitive tasks as well as more advanced PC-based projects.
Daily Tasks include:
1)  Build and ship orders ranging from 1 oz to 70 lbs; this includes comparing and choosing the best shipping method, packing packages safely, and copying tracking information to the customer.(2-3 hours)
2)  Pack and ship boxes to send in bulk to retailers.This includes building kits made of individual product components, packaging them, applying appropriate bar codes and labels, and boxing them for shipment.(3-4 hours)
These two tasks are the main focuses of and will take up the bulk of your time.

FOR MORE ON THIS JOB, CLICK HERE

For more on job opportunities and other news in Hendersonville, follow @HvilleNews

JOB: Home Dialysis RN Float

Staff RN
Take this opportunity to build a promising career with a healthcare leader. The professional we select will provide direct patient care, perform all technical dialysis procedures, assess response and make appropriate adjustments as directed by supervisor or physician. This individual will assess patient and document findings, administer medications, as well as assess and address patient/family educational needs regarding end-stage renal disease, dialysis therapy, diet and medications.
PURPOSE AND SCOPE:
Supports FMCNA's mission, vision, core values and customer service philosophy. Adheres to the FMCNA Compliance Program, including following all regulatory and FMS policy requirements.
Functions as a member of the Home Dialysis Team as the Home Therapy Staff Nurse.Ensures provision of quality Home Dialysis Training and patient care in accordance with FMS policies, procedures and the UltraCare at Home principles.Supports FMCNA's commitment to the Quality Assessment Performance Improvement Program (QAPI)) and CQI activities, including those related to patient satisfaction. Actively participates in Quality Assessment Performance Improvement (QAPI) process that may enhance the likelihood that patients will achieve established FMCNA Quality Target Goals.

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And don't forget to follow us @HvilleNews

Sumner Schools Keep Growing

Sumner County Schools added nearly 200 new students this year, continuing a fairly rapid pattern of growth that has stressed buildings in recent years.

School leaders now say that expansion of current facilities and the building of a new elementary school will help address growth and may prevent the proliferation of portable classrooms.

Here's more on where the growth is happening across the county.

Daniels, Cox Chosen to Lead School Board

At Tuesday night's School Board meeting, Andy Daniels was elected chair of the Sumner County School Board and Beth Cox was elected vice-chair.

Daniels had previously served as vice-chair and Cox has served as Board vice-chair in the past. The two will lead the Board over the next year.

County Commission Passes School System Budget

On Monday night, the Sumner County Commission passed the School Board's $214 million budget for the 2014-15 school year.

The Commission voted 19-3 in favor of the budget.

The budget includes a 3% raise for all employees, additional positions to meet system needs, and a readjustment of salaries for support staff.

The budget also includes the highest instructional allocation for schools ever in a Sumner County Schools budget.

For more on the budget, see a presentation or read the details.

JOB: Sales Leasing Coordinator

Temporary position, possibly temp-to-hire.

Duties Include:

Showing apartments to potential tenants and explaining various amenities available for complex.  Must have excellent customer service skills, great presentation capabilities, and ability to communicate well.  Basic computer skills are desired as well. 

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JOB: Manager Trainee, 84 Lumber

84 Lumber in Hendersonville seeks a Manager Trainee:

Job Description: A successful Manager Trainee candidate must have excellent communication skills and interact with and work well with others in our fast paced and ever changing industry.
Other responsibilities include:

• Sell lumber and building materials, conduct price quotes, process orders and returns, and develop excellent product knowledge.
• Create material estimates for customers in a timely manner
• Synchronize delivery and/or pickups of customer orders
• Quickly resolve customer complaints and problems
• Able to prioritize; manage time and orchestrate multiple tasks.
• Interacts with other 84 Lumber stores, corporate office, and vendors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers.
• Maintaining and merchandising inventory
• Loading/Unloading delivery trucks

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JOB: HIM Coordinator

HIM Coordinator Job in Hendersonville:

HIM Coordinator



Education:
RHIA or RHIT and CCS credential required
Job Qualifications:
The Corporate HIM Coordinator will serve as a Health Information Management support resource for the hospitals and special projects for the corporate HIM team
This position will focus on Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) coordination, auditing and communication between departments
RHIA or RHIT and CCS credential required
HPF and STAR experience preferred

READ the full job description and apply

JOB: Instructor/Librarian at Vol State

Volunteer State Community College has an opening for an Instructor/Librarian.

Job Summary:
To provide electronic information resources supporting the instructional programs of the college and to provide library services and resources for off campus and distance education students and faculty.

Minimum Job Requirements:

• M.L.S. or equivalent degree from an institution accredited by the American Library Association
  
• Experience in managing access issues involving electronic information resources
  
• Knowledge of current trends in the acquisition and management of electronic information resources
  
• Knowledge of emerging technologies and mobile applications
  
• Strong organizational, oral and written communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills
  
• Strong proficiency with PCs, web applications, and productivity software, including Microsoft Office
  
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
  
• Excellent customer service skills
  
• Experience negotiating contracts with vendors preferred
  
• One year of academic library experience preferred
  
• Two years professional experience preferred
  
• Experience teaching in a library environment is preferred

READ the Full Job Description

JOB: Vice President of Finance and Administration

Teddy Bear Portraits is seeking a Vice President of Finance and Administration.

Position Summary: The Vice President of Finance & Administration serves as a key member and thought partner and leader of the senior management team, providing input and leadership for Nationwide Studios, Inc. overall business strategy.Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Tax, accounting, treasury, cash management, external financial relations, accounts payable and receivable, financial reporting, 401k administration, forecasting, planning, and budgeting
• Vendor contract negotiations
• Corporate sales proposals and contract negotiations
• Evaluation of all acquisition candidates
• Audit partnerships and profitability improvements

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JOB: Director of Accounting at Volunteer State Community College

Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin seeks a Director of Accounting:

Job Summary:
Responsible for implementing, supervising, organizing, planning, directing the daily operations of the Business Office; ensures timely, accurate reporting of financial activity for the college, foundation and two Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCAT's). Safeguards the institution's property and provides superior service to students, employees and other customers. Chief accounting officer for the accounts payable, accounts receivable, loan billing and cashiering functions of the Business Office. Performs other job related duties relative to the area of responsibility. 

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If you have a job available in the Hendersonville area and you'd like it posted here, email newshendersonville@gmail.com

Courtney Rogers is FOR and AGAINST Vouchers

Depending on who you ask, State Representative Courtney Rogers is an avid supporter of school voucher programs or she is a reliable opponent of vouchers.

Americans for Prosperity sent a mailer to Sumner voters recently giving Rogers a grade of A+ for her support of vouchers.

Then, the Tennessee Education Association sent a mailer saying:

"Privatization groups want to destroy public schools. Courtney Rogers said NO to vouchers!"

So, the TEA is telling its members to support Courtney Rogers in the Republican primary because she opposes vouchers.

And Americans for Prosperity is telling its target audience that Courtney Rogers supports vouchers and thus, deserves a vote.

Then, there's a mailer from the Tennessee Federation for Children -- a division of the American Federation for Children with a very minimal Tennessee presence. This mailer mentions that Courtney Rogers supports "More jobs, less waste, and lower taxes."

It doesn't say anything about vouchers. But TFC is one of the state's loudest proponents of vouchers and a leading member of the School Choice NOW coalition, a group focused on bringing vouchers to Tennessee.

So, what's the story? Rogers did vote AGAINST Governor Bill Haslam's proposal for a limited voucher program that would have effectively only gone to low income students in Memphis and Nashville.

She has expressed support for a voucher program that applies to every district and every student, regardless of income.  A privatization scheme it seems the TEA would likely strongly oppose. And one that could have a devastating impact on the school system in Sumner County.

Curiously, there's not been much mail or public comment from Rep. Rogers on the voucher issue (or any other).

Perhaps she's simply relying on outside special interests to tell her story - or, tell their version of her story.

Moore Takes Helm at Public Works

Hendersonville Mayor Scott Foster has named Chip Moore the interim director of the Public Works department following the recent termination of former director Jerry Horton.

Moore has more than 10 years of experience as the city's design engineer.

The move was prompted by an investigation that ultimately led to the firing of Horton.

More on the story from the Hendersonville Star News

JOB: Chief Medical Officer

Calling True Medical Leaders! Are you a physician that has a proven history; leading teams to excel while building programs that deliver high-quality patient care. Do you have what it takes to build a more innovative, consumer-focused urgent care company? If so, you may be the leader we are seeking: We are searching for our Chief Medical Officer (CMO).

READ MORE ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Not so fast with the wine

The move to allow the sale of wine in grocery stores is hitting a bit of a snag in Sumner County, with more than half of the signatures on petitions filed so far turning out to be invalid.  Cities which allow liquor by the drink, as Hendersonville does, are eligible to hold a referendum on allowing the sale of wine in grocery stores. In Hendersonville, just over 1500 valid signatures are required on a petition by August 28th in order for the issue to make the November 4th ballot.

If the referendum passes, Hendersonville residents could be buying wine at Kroger and Publix by June 2016.

More on the complications related to the wine petitions.

JOB: Director of Patient Access

Parallon is hiring a Director of Patient Access. 

Job Description

TRANSITION DUTIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
• Plan, prepare and integrate facility Patient Access processes with PAS’s during deployment
• Establish controls and review mechanisms for PAS policies and procedures related to Patient Access
OPERATIONAL DUTIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
• Oversee facility operations of Patient Access functions (e.g. pre-registration, benefit verification, pre-authorization, admission/registration, service pre-payment, etc.) to ensure daily operations are maintained according to standard
• Serve as the primary liaison between the PAS and the Facility
• Maintain and promote good customer relations with facility management, physicians and physician office staff
• Review Patient Access performance to ensure timeliness, accuracy, compliance and standards fulfillment as defined in PAS Service Level Agreements
• Inform Regional Patient Access Director of any significant issues in the Patient Access area (e.g., Pre-registration delays, pre-authorization backlogs, etc.)
• Stay abreast of regulatory requirements and company compliance policies, ensuring timely staff education
• Inform staff of relevant changes and developments in payer requirements
• Ensure quality review measurements are in place
• Facilitate implementation and monitoring of standard master files, processes, reporting and education programs
• Oversee management of Patient Access personnel, providing recommendations for hiring, promotion, salary adjustment and personnel action where appropriate
• Develop specific objectives, budgets, and performance standards for each area of responsibility
• Identify and implement process improvements to lower costs and improve services to facility customers
• Perform staff reviews and prepare performance documents for direct reports
• Recommends sufficient number of qualified/competent staff.
• Determines staff qualifications and competence. Develops and maintains accurate initial and annual competency checklists, and initiates completion of initial and annual competency attestation forms.
• Actively seeks ways to control costs without compromising patient safety, quality of care of the services delivered.
• Attends in-service presentations, and complete mandatory education week including, but not limited to, infection control, patient safety, quality improvements, MSDS and OSHA Standards.

Demonstrates knowledge of occurrence reporting system and utilizes system to report potential patient safety issues.
• Practice and adhere to the “Code of Conduct” philosophy and “Mission and Value Statement”
• Other duties as assigned

For more on this job and to apply, click here!

Local Parent Group Gets National Attention

Local education advocacy group Strong Schools has gained national attention for their use of Facebook to organize a campaign to change the Sumner County Commission.

A story appeared at Huffington Post detailing the group's effective use of social media in the 2014 elections.

The story noted:

Social media was also huge for getting out the vote. We made people care by showing them how much these issues mattered and making them believe things could change. In 2000, voter turnout was 4,000 citizens. This time, we had 13,000 come to the polls.
And the result? All 13 candidates endorsed by Strong Schools PAC won their races in the Republican Primary. We even beat three incumbents, and gave the "good ol' boy system" the boot. It's a whole new day in this county.

JOB: Director of Community Relations

The Hearth at Hendersonville is hiring a Director of Community Relations:

SUMMARY:  Responsible for achieving maximum occupancy and total revenue potential, generating new prospects, and converting prospects into residents.  Responsible for coordinating move-ins and move-outs of residents.

Find out more about this job.

If you'd like to have a job listed on our site, email newshendersonville@gmail.com

JOB: VP of Operations, US Pest

U.S. Pest Protection is expanding and looking for leadership at our corporate office in Hendersonville.  U.S. Pest is Tennessee's largest privately owned pest and termite company and we are family owned and operated for 30 years. U.S. Pest has awesome growth potential for candidates who have a professional appearance, strong leadership abilities, absolutely love people, have a sharp attention to detail as well as are eager to work for a fast growing and fun but professional company. Our current market is Middle Tennessee with 3 branches producing over 6 million in revenue. Please review our website, www.uspest.com, before applying.

MORE on this job!

SPECIAL CALLED County Commission Meeting

The Sumner County Commission will meet on Monday, June 30th in Special Sessions of the Education Committee, the Budget Committee, and the full County Commission.

The Education Committee begins at 5:30, Budget at 6:00 PM, and full commission at 7:00 PM. 

The meetings include discussion of continuation budgets for the Sumner County Schools and other departments as well as discussion of setting the certified tax rate for 2014.

For more news on Hendersonville and Sumner County, follow @HvilleNews

JOB: Housekeeper, Emeritus in Hendersonville

Emeritus is now hiring for a housekeeper.

Find out more about this opportunity.

If you have a job you'd like advertised, email us at newshendersonville@gmail.com

Chief Steele's Last Week on the Job

Hendersonville Fire Chief Jamie Steele will retire this week after 28 years as a Hendersonville Fire Fighter. A reception honoring Chief Steel will be held from 1-5 PM on Friday, June 27th at Fire House #3 located at 179 Bonita Parkway.  The event is free and open to the public.

More on Chief Steele and his career in Hendersonville.

New Principals Named at Hendersonville Schools

Sumner County Director of Schools Del Phillips has named new leadership at some Hendersonville schools.  The new principals are:

Hendersonville High School -- Bob Cotter (currently principal at Hawkins Middle)

Hawkins Middle School -- Mitch Flood (currently an assistant principal at Gallatin High)

Beech High School -- Kenny Powell (currently principal at Knox Doss at Drakes Creek)

Merrol Hyde Magnet School -- Todd Stinson (currently an Instructional Coordinator with Sumner County Schools)

Hendersonville Job: Core Benefits Groups

Core Benefits Group is hiring for an Outside Sales position:


Due to recent changes in government legislation we are experiencing rapid growth in the small business marketplace. Core Benefits Group is one of the fasted growing agencies in the country with small business and individuals specializing in health, life, supplemental, disability, medicare, property and causality. Our experienced professionals consult with clients and help them find the coverage they need. Recent changes with Health Care Reform has created great demand for our services.

MORE DETAILS

School Board Study Session Tonight

The Sumner County School Board will hold a study session tonight at 6PM at the Board Office at 695 East Main Street in Gallatin.

The agenda includes discussion and vote on bids related to Burrus Elementary and a discussion of a differentiated pay plan for teachers. The state has mandated that districts develop a differentiated pay plan as a way to move toward merit pay for teachers. Tonight will be the first public discussion of the district's proposal.

School Board Candidate Forum on Monday

Parent-led advocacy group Strong Schools is hosting a forum for School Board candidates on Monday, June 2nd at 6:30 PM at the Hendersonville Public Library.

Candidates from all districts up for election have been invited to attend.

This year, seats in districts 1, 3, 5, 7, and 11 are up for election.

The candidates are:

District 1: Vanessa Silkwood (incumbent) and Tammy Hayes

District 3: Don Long (incumbent) and Alice Bachman

District 5: Janet Arnold (incumbent) and Jeff Cordell

District 7: Andy Daniels (incumbent) and John Ruth

District 9: Patricia Brown

District 11: David Brown (incumbent) and Jeff Carter

TCAP and Final Grades for Sumner Students

According to a letter distributed by Sumner County Schools this morning, final grades for students in grades 3-8 will NOT include TCAP scores this year.  This is a change from the past, as the state mandates inclusion of TCAP scores in a student's final grades. The change is a result of a delay in the availability of "Quick Scores" from the state.  Below are excerpts from the letter that explain in more detail:

In grades 3-8, final student grades will not be impacted by TCAP scores this school year. Per Sumner County Schools Board Policy IHA, in grades 3-5, TCAP scores should account for 15% of a student's second semester grade. In grades 6-8, TCAP scores should account for 20% of a student's second semester grade, and in grades 9-12, the end-of-course examination should count 25% of the student's second nine-week grading period.  Due to the unavailability of quick scores in grades 3-8, the Sumner County School Board has elected to waive Board Policy IHA this year to allow the calculation of final grades to not include those grades.

High school quick scores were released for end-of-course tests, and students in grades 9-12 will have those scores factored in to their final grades.

Malone Touts Strong Schools Endorsement

6th District County Commission candidate Yvonne Malone sent out an email yesterday touting her endorsement by the Political Action Committee (PAC) of local grassroots organization Strong Schools.

Here's the email:

Did you see today's email from the Strong Schools PAC?  Strong Schools has selected Yvonne Malone as one of its endorsed candidates for the 2014 August election!  Click here to see their email.

"I am honored to know Strong Schools recognizes that I am a qualified and committed candidate for Sumner County Commission," said Malone.  "I look forward to campaigning hard this summer and meeting the voters of the 6th Commission District."

A 30 year veteran of the Sumner County School system, Yvonne Malone knows the "ins and outs" of our school system and how the County Commission can best assist the School Board in making Sumner County Schools priority number one.

Yvonne has a proven track record from her time on the Gallatin City Council, and is ready to step up and serve her community once again.

 

For more Hendersonville news, follow us @HvilleNews

Strong Schools PAC Announces August Endorsements

Strong Schools PAC, the political action committee of local grassroots group Strong Schools, today released its list of endorsed County Commission candidates for the August 2014 County General Election.

“These candidates have committed to being pro-schools voices on the County Commission,” said Strong Schools PAC Chair Wes Duenkel.  “We believe they represent the best options for moving our schools and Sumner County forward.”

The endorsed candidates include:

District 2: Mike Meadows

District 3: Alan Driver

District 4: Leslie Schell and Jerry Foster

District 5: Ben Harris and Baker Ring

District 6: Kevin Pomeroy and Yvonne Malone

District 7: JoAnne Kemp and Trish LeMarbre

District 8: Paul Decker

District 9: Jerry Becker and Chris Taylor

District 10: Paul Goode and Caroline Krueger

District 11: Scott Langford and Bill Taylor

Strong Schools PAC endorsed 13 winning candidates in the May 6^th Primary Election. As a result of their efforts, three incumbents were defeated in May and will not be on the August ballot.

“It’s time for new leadership that embraces responsible management and puts our schools first,” Duenkel said. “We’re pleased to have had some early wins in May and hopeful that we’ll see a full slate of pro-schools candidates elected in August.”

 

For more Hendersonville news, follow us @HvilleNews

Sumner County Jobs

Here are some jobs currently available in Sumner County:

Director of Library Services, Volunteer State Community College

Assistant Manager, The Children's Place

Sales and Marketing, The Job Window

Business Analyst, Smith Travel Research

Dean of Business and Technology, Volunteer State Community College

Indian Lake Starbucks and the Guy in the Hat

So, Hendersonville's NEWEST news source has this great story about a guy with a hat and a little run-in at Starbuck on Indian Lake Blvd. 

Check it out!

McKamey to Visit Sumner on Monday

Democratic Gubernatorial candidate John McKamey will visit Sumner County on Monday, May 19th.  He'll be available for a meet and greet at 6 PM at the Sumner County Democratic Party Headquarters on Long Hollow Pike in Gallatin.

McKamey is a former educator from Sullivan County who also served a term as Sullivan County Mayor.  The baseball field at Sullivan East High in Bluff City is named for the former teacher and coach.

Sumner County Election Results

The May 6th Primary determined many of the 2014 Election outcomes.

At the County Commission level, candidates supported by local grassroots group Strong Schools won 13 races, including defeating three incumbents.

The Gallatin News had this to say:

They said they would make a difference and in the Republican County Primary Tuesday, a group nearly 4,000 strong swept the election polls with all 13 of their endorsed County Commission candidates; upsetting three longtime incumbent commissioners.
It was a victory night for the Strong Schools group, formed in 2012, following the shut-down of schools opening during a budget standoff of the County Commission and the School Board.

And the Hendersonville Star News added:

Tuesday was a big night for Strong Schools, a grassroots group formed in 2012 when a stalemate between the Sumner County School Board and Sumner County Commission caused an eight-day delay in the start of the school year.

Thirteen of the candidates the group endorsed won their primary races, with several facing no opposition in August. In addition, three incumbents vocally opposed to raising property taxes to give more funding to education were defeated.

Primary winners endorsed by the group included Leslie Schell and Jerry Foster in District 4; Trisha LeMarbre and Joanne Kemp in District 7; Jerry Becker and Chris Taylor in District 9; Paul Goode and Caroline Krueger in District 10; and Scott Langford and Bill Taylor in District 11.
Incumbents who lost included Jerry Stone in District 11; Kirk Moser in District 7 and Frank Freels in District 4.

In other elections, Joe Thompson narrowly won the primary for Circuit Court Judge, Louis Oliver III won the Chancellor's race, Barry Brown was re-elected General Sessions Judge, Sonny Weatherford easily won the Sheriff's race, and Kathryn Strong dominated in the race for Circuit Court Clerk.

The elections now move on to August, which will see the General Election for County Commission, School Board, and other county offices.  There are contested County Commission races in district's 2, 3, 6, and 9. 

For more Hendersonville news, follow @HvilleNews

JOB: Research Analyst, Smith Travel Research

An outstanding job opportunity in Hendersonville -- Smith Travel Research is hiring a Research Analyst.

Details.

If you have a job opening you'd like posted, email us at newshendersonville@gmail.com

Strong Schools Releases Video Ahead of Election Day

Local grassroots group Strong Schools has released a video ahead of the May 6th primary election reminding voters of the events of August 2012 when the opening of schools was delayed.

The video highlights how the organization was created from a group of concerned parents -- and how that energy has been sustained for two years heading into this year's elections.

Watch the video:

Voter Turnout on Record-Breaking Pace

Early voting totals for the May 6th primary election have surpassed 5000 votes.  That's more than ALL the votes cast in the May primary in 2010 -- by nearly 1000 votes. 

The Hendersonville Standard reported earlier this week that early voting totals were on track to break records, and now they have.

If historical trends hold, between 2,000 and 4,000 voters could cast ballots on Tuesday. 

The Standard article notes that local grassroots group Strong Schools has organized parents to get involved in the election.  Likewise, Election Administrator Lori Atchley says parents still remember the 2012 delay of schools and that event is impacting elections.

From Atchley:

“I think a lot of parents are still upset over the schools being shut down for 10 days - at least that’s what I am hearing from them,” she said. “They saw this as a dispute between the County Commission and the School Board. A lot of people got upset and they are still upset and they are staying focused and a lot more involved because of that.”

Election Day is May 6th and polls are open from 7 AM to 7 PM.  Voters should check their voter registration card to determine their voting precinct.

Sumner County's Portable Schools

Local grassroots advocacy group Strong Schools has a new video out highlighting the proliferation of portable classrooms in the system.

The video points to the stark reality that thousands of kids every day attend class in portables -- supposedly temporary solutions to growth that have become permanent fixtures at schools across the county. 

They also note that this is not a recent phenomenon - that some portables have been on campuses for ten years or more.

Here's the video:

Pro-Schools County Commission Candidates

The Political Action Committee (PAC) of local grassroots education advocacy group Strong Schools released its list of pro-schools candidates for County Commission ahead of early voting, which starts today and runs through May 1st.

Strong Schools PAC made its initial round of endorsements for the May 6th Republican Primary and noted it will release a second round of endorsements for the August General Election.

The only contested races on May 6th are in the GOP primary.

"These are the candidates voters can count on to put schools first," said Strong Schools PAC Chair Wes Duenkel.  "They've responded to surveys, attended public forums, and answered tough questions.  It's time we had a County Commission that made schools a top priority and these candidates will do just that."

The Strong Schools PAC's Pro-Schools candidates for the Republican Primary include:

District 3: Alan Driver

District 4: Jerry Foster & Leslie Schell

District 5: Baker Ring

District 6: Kevin Pomeroy

District 7: JoAnne Kemp and Trisha LeMarbre

District 9: Chris Taylor, Jerry Becker, & Andy Griffin

District 10: Paul Goode and Caroline Krueger

District 11:  Bill Taylor and Scott Langford

For more Hendersonville news, follow @HvilleNews

JOB: Sumner County Airport Manager

The Sumner County Regional Airport Authority is Seeking an Airport Manager. 

Here are the details.

VOL STATE HIRING: Director of Accounting

Volunteer State Community College is seeking a Director of Accounting.

Details here.


For more news about Hendersonville and Sumner County, follow us @HvilleNews

Rhetoric vs. Reality: Frank Freels Edition

Parent-led advocacy group Strong Schools released results from a survey of County Commission candidates.  The survey asked questions about where the candidates stand on issues related to Sumner County Schools.

A number of incumbent County Commissioners chose not to respond to the survey.  However, 4th District incumbent Frank Freels did respond.  Interestingly, his responses were at variance with some of his recent votes on the County Commission.

For example, on his list of priorities, he mentions that he wants to "continue to create safe school buildings that are a clean, nice environment for students and teachers to learn and work in."

This in spite of his votes against funding the school system budgets in 2011 and 2012. 

Not only did he oppose the initial budgets, his vote in 2012 to reallocated capital dollars to the school system's general fund meant that additions at Hendersonville and Gallatin high schools were delayed. That means more kids were in portable classrooms instead of fixed school buildings. 

On the issue of whether or not teachers and staff are paid appropriately, Freels notes he "Somewhat Disagrees" and calls for respectful compensation levels for teachers and support staff.

Here again, Freels' votes tell a different story.  Freels repeatedly voted to provide raises for County employees while denying the School Board the funds to give their employees raises.  He voted against initial school budgets in 2011 and 2012 that would have increased compensation for support staff. He voted to allow the County Insurance Trust to keep employee premiums artificially low while the insurance premiums for teachers continued to rise based on market rates.

Finally, Freels notes Dr. Phillips has done a great job communicating the needs of the school system.

And, while he may believe that, his County Commission votes have been consistently against funding the needs he is applauding Dr. Phillips for properly pointing out. Here's just one example.

If you're an incumbent with a voting record and you fill out a candidate survey, you should be sure your answers line up with the record. 

The Record Speaks

Back in 2012, Sumner County Schools didn't open for 8 days because of a funding dispute between the School Board and the County Commission. The issue was a carry over from 2011 when the Board proposed a budget that required $7 million in additional funds from the County Commission.  That year, the two bodies compromised.  Which is to say the County Commission ultimately provided $500,000 in new money and the Board cut $6.5 million from its proposed budget.  The system no longer provided substitute teachers in middle and high school. Instead, teachers had to cover each other's classes when their were absences.  Textbook orders were delayed.  Technology purchases were put off another year.

And then, in 2012, the Board presented its budget earlier than it had in the 10 years prior.  Commissioner Jerry Stone indicated he was pleased with the most transparent budget process he'd seen during his time on the County Commission. 

But, when the budget was proposed, it required $12 million for full funding.  The County Commission said no. And the School Board said that if the budget wasn't funded, school would not open. 

While the County sat on $30 million in reserve funds, a majority on the County Commission refused to spend even 1 dime from reserve funds to move toward a compromise budget. 

Then, some Commissioners proposed a solution.  A small tax increase that would generate between $3 and $5 million for schools.  This would require either funds from reserves or school board budget cuts.  It was a compromise proposal.  It failed.  16-8.  Here's a picture from the vote count:

And here's the breakdown:

Moe Taylor -- NO (incumbent, running again, unopposed)
Mike Akins -- NO (incumbent, running again, unopposed)

Billy Geminden -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)
Shawn Utley -- YES (not running again)

Steve Graves -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)
David Satterfield -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)

Frank Freels -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)
Joe Matthews -- NO (incumbent, running for court clerk)

Ben Harris -- YES (incumbent, running again, unopposed)
Baker Ring -- YES (incumbent, running again, unopposed)

Paige Brown -- NO (running for Mayor of Gallatin)
Jim Vaughn -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)

Trisha LeMarbre -- YES (incumbent, running again)
Kirk Moser -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)

Paul Decker -- YES (incumbent, running again, unopposed)
Merrol Hyde -- NO (incumbent, running again, unopposed)

Chris Hughes -- NO (incumbent, not running again)
David Kimbrough -- YES (incumbent, not running again)

Paul Goode -- YES (incumbent, running again, unopposed)
Jo Skidmore -- NO (incumbent, kicked off of ballot)

Jerry Stone -- NO (incumbent, running again, has opposition)
Paul Freels -- NO (incumbent, not running again)

Michael Guthrie -- YES (incumbent, running again, unopposed)
Bob Pospisil -- NO (incumbent, running again, unopposed)

The Response to Jerry Stone's "Citizen Engagement"

So, County Commissioner Jerry Stone has made it clear he doesn't like it when his own constituents express their concerns or disagreements on his campaign Facebook page. 

Now, citizens are letting Jerry Stone know how they feel about his relative lack of engagement with those he claims to represent.  A meme is circulating that makes the point quite clear:

JOB: Customer Service Representative

A local company is hiring a Customer Service Rep.

Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday-Friday.  Pay: $13.00/hour

MORE DETAILS

For more Hendersonville, TN News, follow @HvilleNews

Skid(no)more

Incumbent County Commissioner Jo Skidmore, who this year filed to run for office as a Republican for the first time in her long political career, has been denied the right to run as a Republican by the state GOP.

Her status as a Republican was apparently challenged, and the state party committee agreed that she lacked the credentials to be considered a Republican in good standing.

Jim Hawkins was also denied ballot access in his bid to run as a Republican candidate for Chancellor.  Hawkins previously ran for state Senate against Diane Black in 2008 as a Democrat.

The Hendersonville Standard has the full story.

2014 County Commission Candidates-UPDATED

Noon today (February 20th) was the filing deadline for candidates for Sumner County Commission. 

Here's a list of candidates who had filed by that deadline. 

Today was the deadline to withdraw your name.  Also, Jo Skidmore was not allowed to run as a Republican because her Republican credentials were challenged and the state party agreed with the challenge.

Paul Freels (Incumbent) withdrew today as did Shawn Fennell.

This is THE list of candidates running in 2014 for County Commission

italics denotes incumbent


First District:
...

Mike Akins (R)
Moe Taylor  (R)


Second District:
Billy Geminden  (R)
 Larry Hinton (R)
Michael Meadows (I)


Third District:
Steve Graves (I)
David Satterfield (I)
Alan Driver (R)
Richie Harville (R)


Fourth District:
Frank E. Freels (R)
Roger Angell (R)
Leslie Schell (R)
Jerry Foster (R)


Fifth District:
Ben Harris (I)
Baker Ring (R)
 
Sixth District:
Jim Vaughn (R)
Yvonne Malone (D)
Kevin Pomeroy (R)
HD Wheeler (R)


Seventh District:
Trisha LeMarbre (R)
Kirk Moser (R)
Joanne Kemp (R)




Eighth District:
Paul Decker (I)
Merrol Hyde (R)
 
Ninth District:(no incumbents running)
Jerry Becker (R)
Chris Taylor (R)
Mark Nodini (R)
Benjamin McCroskey (I)
Michael Conner (R)
Andy Griffin (R)


Tenth District:
Paul Goode (R)
Caroline Krueger (R)


Eleventh District:
Jerry Stone (R)
F. William "Bill" Taylor (R)
Scott Langford (R)


Twelfth District:
Bob Pospisil (R)
Michael Guthrie (R)

Stonewalled!

It seems incumbent County Commissioner Jerry Stone is not please with dialogue about how best to improve schools.  Here's his recent Facebook status:

Reelect Jerry Stone Sumner County Commissioner

13 hours ago

I have removed and blocked several posts from SS members. They are not interested in facts. They have an agenda and they stick to it. They blocked me from their site several months ago, I will unblock them when they unblock me.


The claim Stone makes about being blocked is false, by the way.  The group posted a list of currently blocked individuals, containing 7 people.  Jerry Stone is not on that list and leaders of the organization insist he's never been blocked.

This issue apparently arose because after Stone posted false claims about parent-led advocacy group Strong Schools on his page, several members of that organization took the time to respond. When presented with facts about the schools and with pleas from members of Strong Schools to stop making gross generalizations, Stone's son, Nathan, began responding and was joined by SURG supporters Donna DeSopo and Kurt Riley. 

Commissioner Stone's only response has been to post that he's blocking those who disagree with him or who attempt to engage him in dialogue about schools. 

SURG claims that Stone is the only current County Commissioner who is a member of their organization.  And their leadership is standing behind Stone in the 2014 elections.

This is the same Jerry Stone who opposed a proposal to use funds from the Sumner County's nearly $30 million in reserves to help bridge the gap in the 2012 school system proposed budget.  This would have prevented a tax increase and allowed time for discussion of alternatives. 

Just a few months later, though, Stone supported using reserve funds to bailout the County's mismanaged insurance trust.

More recently, Stone has come out in favor of a property tax increase to support the addition of a new judge in Sumner County. Why does he support this tax? Because the position is needed due to growth. No word on whether SURG leaders are taking Stone to task because of his support for higher taxes.

It's early in election season, but Jerry Stone's Facebook page is certainly proving to be interesting reading.  That is, if you enjoy reading Jerry's complaints about how his constituents want to engage in dialogue but all he wants to see is people who agree with his point of view.

DeSopo Attacks Local Elected Officials, Hides from Questions

Hendersonville resident Donna DeSopo, a frequent critic of city officials in Hendersonville, has come under fire for her aggressive, personal attacks on two local elected officials.

The Hendersonville Standard carried a story this week on DeSopo's tactics and her refusal to return calls for comment.

In one incident, DeSopo took to an area news blog and then Facebook to attack Goodlettsville City Commissioner Zach Young, accusing him of being jobless, living in his parents' basement, and relying on them for health care and food.

DeSopo has not responded to the fact that Young is employed full-time at a local property management company and is also a full-time college student.  Young notes that he lives at with his mother to care for her as she has a terminal illness. 

No word from DeSopo in terms of an apology for her outlandish attack. 

Young says he's fine with political disagreements, but doesn't understand why DeSopo made it personal. Worse, she simply lied. Every one of her accusations about Young's personal life are false.

In another incident cited by the Standard, DeSopo refers to Hendersonville Alderman Scott Sprouse as a piece of excrement who should be thrown out. 

The paper goes on to editorialize that DeSopo's conduct has no place in a civil discussion regarding political disagreements. 

Sprouse says DeSopo's words don't concern him, but he'd like for her to produce tangible evidence to support her claims.

It's not clear whether or when she plans to apologize for insulting Sprouse or lying about Young's family life. 

Perhaps DeSopo will continue her approach of boldly attacking with lies and vile language, then hiding when confronted.  Perhaps being exposed for such tactics will cause her to re-think her approach. Time will tell.

What ARE they looking for?

A group of citizens digging into the City of Hendersonville's records has failed to turn up any significant wrong-doing by city officials over the last 8 years.

According to the Hendersonville Standard, records requests by the group, led by local muckraker Donna DeSopo, have created a backlog at City Hall and yet no criminal charges or significant improprieties have been discovered or reported. 

Aldermen Don Ames and Jim Waters were interviewed for the story and both said that while they support the public's access to records, the group digging has not presented anything extraordinary.  Both expressed a desire for the group to present clear information about wrongdoing, if any has been discovered.

More on this story here.

Assistant Director of Advising and Testing

Volunteer State Community College is hiring an Assistant Director of Advising and Testing.

Details here.

If you have a Hendersonville-area job you'd like posted, email us at newshendersonville@gmail.com

Strong Schools vs. Portables

Parent-led advocacy group Strong Schools sent an email today decrying the over-reliance on Portable "classrooms" by Sumner County Schools.

The group noted that the system has 77 portables serving an estimated 3000 or so children each day.

During the recent cold temperatures, the group said, the system's use of portables meant kids in class in very cold conditions.

The organization suggested a lack of planning was the cause and that persistent under-funding of schools over the years is finally taking its toll.

The group is calling on the School Board to present and the County Commission to fund a budget that addresses growth and meets the needs of students.

JOB: Director of Distance Learning at Vol State

A very local job is open for the right candidate at Vol State Community College.

Director of Distance Learning

Details here.

County Commission May Stop Funding Scholarships

Despite a $10 million balance that could theoretically fund the Educate and Grow Scholarship program at Vol State for nearly 20 more years, the County Commission is considering a proposal that would significantly reduce or possibly eliminate the program.

Over 5 years, the program has cost Sumner County roughly $500,000 and helped students meet tuition costs at Vol State.

Now, the program appears to be in jeopardy as Commissioners seem unwilling to fund its continuation.

Despite their cautious approach regarding the use of reserve funds for this purpose, Commissioners had no trouble using the same Hospital Fund to bailout the mismanaged county insurance trust.

Vol State Hiring

Seeking a Director of Development.

Details here.

Frank Freels: Defender of the Status Quo

According to the Hendersonville Star-News, when incumbent County Commissioner Frank Freels was asked about why he's seeking another term on the County Commission, he indicated he is proud of the work the Commission has done in recent years.  Specifically, he said,
 “We’re the best-run county in the state right now.”

Apparently, Mr. Freels thinks a well-run county engages in repeated crisis budgeting instead of properly supporting schools.

Or, perhaps he thinks the 2012 School Budget Crisis is an example of sound management?

Maybe he thinks the County Commission should continue using accounting gimmicks to balance the school system's budget?

Or perhaps he can explain why he wouldn't support a proposal to use reserves from the Hospital Fund to help open schools back in 2012?

Or, is his idea of a well-run county one that engages in a multi-million dollar taxpayer-funded bailout of a mismanaged insurance trust?

If Frank Freels is going to run as a defender of the status quo on the County Commission, he's going to have to answer a lot of tough questions.  If he has new ideas about how to improve the body, it's time to start talking about them.