VBHS Principal Named Interim Director
Van Buren County High School Principal Katina Simmons will serve as the system’s interim Director of Schools after a special called meeting Wednesday night. The board made motions to nominate two candidates, including Simmons and Deputy Director of Schools Denise Wittenburg. Board members voted Simmons on a three to two vote. Board members Benjamin Grissom, […]
Embrace Movement And Local Resources For Better Health
So many people trying to make a change in fitness believe it takes too much of a commitment or takes up too much of their time. Cookeville Leisure Services Special Programs Coordinator Jen Webb said movement is at the top of the list for positive mental and physical health. Webb said staying active does not […]
Six Centers Rebranded As Activity Centers
Six senior centers across the Upper Cumberland have rebranded themselves as activity centers in an effort to bring in more residents. Area Agency on Aging and Disability Director Holly Williams said the Algood, Fair Park, Monterey, Van Buren, DeKalb, and Sparta-White County centers have all made the change in recent months. Williams said it will […]
UT Report Predicts Statewide, UC Growth
The University of Tennessee’s annual State Economic Report predicts increased growth into 2025 statewide, including the Upper Cumberland. Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research Director Don Bruce said the region was a “mixed bag” in 2024, especially in employment areas. However, overall Upper Cumberland growth stood on par with the state average. Bruce said […]
UC Airport Audit Shows No Findings
The Upper Cumberland Regional Airport’s 2024 financial audit came back with no findings. Airport Director Dean Selby said an independent auditor searched through financial records to find if there were any financial improprieties. Selby said he did not know what to expect because the airport had to use a different auditing firm this year. “Having […]
Putnam To Take Bids For Bus Garage In Chunks
Putnam County Officials discussing a plan to take bids for the early stages of a new bus garage facility. County Mayor Randy Porter said the county would take bids for the earthwork, utilities, and street additions that the facility needs. Porter said multiple contractors told the county it could reduce the overall cost of the […]
UC Schools Want State To Simplify Metrics
Schools Directors from across the Upper Cumberland concerned about the massive amount of educational data coming from the state. White County Director of Schools Kurt Dronebarger said families and educators are feeling overwhelmed by the various achievement measures, growth numbers, and school letter grades constantly being released. Dronebarger said a large part of the problem […]
Celina Approves Vision and Dental Coverage
Celina has approved a resolution covering the cost of vision and dental insurance for all city employees. It is the first time Celina has provided the benefit. Celina Mayor Luke Collins said the total cost of providing vision and dental for the city’s employees will amount to $13,178.88 annually. Collins said the city is more […]
