TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2012 Haslam: Patronage Threat Doesnt Match Realities (Memphis Daily News)

Political patronage is not the threat to state employees that it once was because state government is bigger and has a broader scope of services, Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam says. Haslam has been making the point as he tours the state to push priorities launched last month in his State of the State address. Weve put this incredible system in place that really isnt effective all to solve a problem that I dont think is nearly as big as the structure we put in place to solve the problem, Haslam told a Greater Memphis Chamber luncheon Friday, Feb. 3. He is proposing a drop in the number of state government jobs and he wants to end the process of bumping a seniority-based system that allows an employee in one division whose position is eliminated to move to another unrelated department and bump another employee with less seniority in that department. The switch away from that system would give the state director of human resources more discretion to hire based on factors other than seniority. http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/feb/7/haslam-patronage-threat-doesnt-match-realities/

Governor restores Consolidated School Health funding (Stewart Houston Times)

Funding for Coordinated School Health has been restored in Gov. Bill Haslams proposed 2012-2013 fiscal year budget. Haslam made the announcement during his State of the State speech on Jan. 30. It was welcome news to Stewart County CSH Coordinator Elaine Jackson successfully helping to improve academics in the Stewart County public schools by improving student and staff health. I am thrilled that the governor specifically mentioned Coordinated School Health in his speech and that he recognized the importance of the program, she said. Jackson, who has brought in and/or managed more than $1.5 million in grant money and $100,000 in inkind donations since 2000, said in April of that year, 10 sites were chosen as pilot CSH sites across the state. After looking at the 2001-2006 data, the Tennessee Legislature voted to fund CSH in all of the states 136 school districts.http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20120207/STEWART01/302070005

Grant gives science building the push for construction (Sidelines)

Gov. Bill Haslam granted $126.7 million in the state budget for 2012-2013 to construct a 250,000-square-foot science facility that was proposed more than 20 years ago. "We are grateful to Governor Haslam for recognizing the importance of the science-building project and including funding for its construction in this year's budget proposal," said President Sidney McPhee in a press release. "As home to the state's largest undergraduate student population, the science building is critical to our continuing efforts to provide Tennessee with graduates ready for the 21st century workforce." The science department has not had a new facility since the Davis Science Building was built in 1967 when enrollment neared 7,000 students. Now with enrollment of more than 26,000 students, the 75,000-square-feet that houses the science facilities are over maximum capacity, according to the biology department. http://www.mtsusidelines.com/grant-gives-science-building-the-push-for-construction1.2766956#.TzET_8WXRZc

Capitol Hill Conversation-Boards and Commissions (WPLN-Radio Nashville)

There are more than 200 hundred boards and commissions in Tennessee, overseeing everything from utility rates to barber shops. Governor Bill Haslam has proposed merging some of the boards and eliminating others. He says the changes will make state government run more smoothly, but legislators on both sides of the aisle are uneasy with the Governors proposals. Some professionals who are governed by these boards are reluctant, too. Tom Humphrey has been following the story. Hes Capitol reporter for the Knoxville News-Sentinel. WPLNs Bradley George spoke with Humphrey from his home. http://wpln.org/?p=33738

Stop-Gap Hospital Fee Remains in State Budget Proposal (WPLN-Radio Nashville)

A tax levied on Tennessee hospitals remains in Governor Bill Haslams budget, even though the fee began as a temporary fix. The hospital assessment fee which began in 2010 now generates close to $450 million to fill a hole in the states Medicaid budget. The hospitals are willing to tax themselves because without it, Tennessee could lose three times as much federal matching money. But Michael Clark with Brentwood-based LifePoint Hospitals says he doesnt want to see Tennessees become permanent. It is still our ability to help the state through a very rough economic time, but it is not our intention to be doing assessments forever. Clark is a board member of the Tennessee Hospital Association, which has already signed off on another year of the assessment. The organizations president says hed like the fee to be phased starting next year. Last year, the hospital assessment fee was raised from 3.5 to 4.5 percent. This year, if the General Assembly approves, the fee would remain flat. http://wpln.org/?p=33746

TN tornadoes likely this year (Tennessean/Paine)

After record 2011, La Nina conditions are in effect again A record number of tornadoes 113 hit Tennessee last year, and this year also could be a lively one for storms. Tornadoes are difficult to predict, but warm, wet La Nina conditions, which are in effect this year, can be an indicator, said meteorologist Bobby Boyd with the National Weather Service. We have found when we have a La Nina during the spring, we have a higher incident of tornadoes through the Tennessee and Ohio valleys, he said. We could be looking at more stormy weather this spring and the potential for tornadoes. La Nina, which occurred last year also, is when water is cooler than normal in the tropical Pacific Ocean. El Nino is when the water is warmer. Both affect weather patterns around the world. Already, two twisters have struck the state this year: one in West and one in Middle Tennessee. There were no fatalities. Last year, tornadoes were responsible for 34 deaths in the state. The large number of tornadoes in 2011 topped every year since statistics officially began to be kept on them in 1916, Boyd said. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/NEWS01/302070016/TN-tornadoes-likely-year?odyssey=tab| topnews|text|News

Event to promote earthquake preparation, awareness (News-Sentinel/Boudinet)

The second annual Great Central U.S. Shakeout, a drill that is designed to simulate preparation for and promote awareness of earthquakes, will take place 11:15 a.m. today in eight states, including Tennessee. Individuals and organizations participating in the Shakeout by dropping under a stable surface such as a table or desk and holding on to a leg for at least one minute. In April of 2011, 11 states participated in the earthquake simulation and 250,000 of the 3 million participants were from Tennessee. "We hope Tennesseans will use the upcoming drill as an opportunity to practice protective actions and get prepared in case we have a major earthquake in our state," said Jim Bassham, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency director. Contrary to popular belief, the Knoxville area is prone to seismic activity and is at risk of serious earthquake damage if one were to occur. "We have about two seismic events every seven or eight days in Knoxville but they are so small that most people do not feel them," said Cecil W hale, TEMA earthquake program manager. "The battle that we have with earthquake awareness is that we do not have frequent large seismic events like the ones in Japan, Chile and California." Despite the rarity of substantial seismic activity in and around Knoxville, the W est Tennessee lies on one of the largest and most potentially catastrophic fault lines in the world. The New Madrid fault line's center rests in southeastern Missouri on the borders of Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky and Illinois. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/feb/07/event-to-promote-earthquake-preparation/

Opposition to closing of Pikeville's Taft Youth Center grows (TFP/Lewis)

The list of those in opposition to the state's move to close Bledsoe County's Taft Youth Development Center got a little longer in Marion County in recent weeks. Marion County Juvenile Court Judge Jay Blevins said a judicial delegation encompassing the entire East Tennessee region has affirmed its opposition to the Pikeville, Tenn., facility's closure. "Everybody in East Tennessee, both Republicans and Democrats, have stated their objections to it," he said. Taft is the oldest facility of its kind, Blevins said, and it's also the best. "Their recidivism rate is as good as it gets," he said. "It's no Harvard or Princeton, but it is a facility where these kids can get an education. I certainly utilize Taft every week. It would be a shame to see the facility shut down." In January, the Marion County Commission voted unanimously to draft a resolution in support of keeping Taft open, which will be sent to state legislators when it is approved later this month. Late last week, the Kimball Board of Mayor and Aldermen 2

unanimously approved a similar resolution. Kimball Mayor David Jackson said that, even with all the opposition, the state seems determined to close the facility. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/feb/07/opposition-to-taft-youth-center-closing-grows/?local

TBI director requests money for drug buys in Tenn. (Associated Press)
The head of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is asking lawmakers for money to buy drugs. TBI Director Mark Gwyn told the House Finance Committee on Monday that his agency has done without its "confidential fund" since it was cut from the budget in 2009. The TBI uses the money to set up sting operations on drug dealers. Gwyn told the panel that the lack of funding means the TBI can't act on tips or requests for assistance from local law enforcement agencies. "There's no doubt that that has affected public safety in this state," he said. "We get calls that people tell us, 'Look, I can buy drugs from this person, or we want to start a drug operation,' and we simply don't have the money." Gwyn told reporters after the hearing that he would like to see $500,000 appropriated to get the program going again. There is no money in Republican Gov. Bill Haslam's proposal to fund the program. "W e need that money back, so we can go back to buying drugs in this state," Gwyn said. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38516389?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

Consumer officials warn about online dating scams (Associated Press)

State consumer officials are warning about the danger of online dating scammers. They say some fraud artists use online dating as a way to scam people out of their money. Spokesmen say that after a relationship is created, the frauds often ask for money to be wired to them. State Consumer Affairs director Gary Cordell said scammers have been known to steal the real names and photos of U.S. service personnel to set up a fake profile, then prey on the sympathy and patriotism of victims. They also have been known to use religious sites, using religion as a ploy to gain trust before requesting money. Singles should be cautious even when using dating sites with good reputations. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38518849?odyssey=mod| newswell|text|News|s

State lottery has new game with $3 million prize (Associated Press)
The Tennessee Lottery launches a new game on Tuesday with the biggest top prize in the history of the state game. "$3,000,000 Mega Cash" is an instant game played by scratching a ticket. Besides the $3 million top prize, there are 10 prizes from $1 million to $3 million and more than 500,000 prizes from $50 to $20,000. It costs $20 to play. Meanwhile Tuesday, the lottery also is instituting "VIP Rewards," a program that allows players to earn points they can redeem for a range of merchandise in a "VIP Store." Rebecca Hargrove, president and CEO of the lottery, said the two additions "are sure to be a hit." http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38518859?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

Judge: TN must lower hurdles for third parties (Johnson City Press)
A federal judge in Nashville has ruled in favor of Tennessees Green and Constitution parties joint lawsuit which claimed state laws violated the Tennessee constitution by making it unreasonably hard for third parties to get their names on the ballots. Both the Green and Constitution parties are recognized by state law as a minor parties, which, by definition means they are required to file a nominating petition with the states coordinator of elections. That petition must bear the signatures of a minimum of at least 2.5 percent of the total number of votes cast for gubernatorial candidates in the most recent election for governor. Judge William J. Haynes Jr. of the U.S. District Court in Nashville wrote Friday that the law was unconstitutionally vague, and imposes impermissible burdens. Ruling says law has many faults For a minor political party to get its name on the Tennessee ballot in 2012, more than 40,000 signatures would have to be collected. This law has not been applied to Republican and Democrat, or major parties. Haynes said 10,000 signatures would be more reasonable. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/NEWS02/302070040/Judge-TN-must-lower-hurdles-third-parties? odyssey=tab|topnews|text|News

House bill challenges Haslam, speakers on judges (Associated Press)

State Rep. Glen Casada is moving ahead with a bill calling for the popular election of Supreme Court justices, a position at odds with the wishes of fellow Republican Gov. Bill Haslam and the speakers of both chambers. Casada's bill would allow for contested judicial elections in August 2014. Haslam, House Speaker Beth Harwell and Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey have called for putting a proposed constitutional amendment before the voters 3

in November of that year seeking to cement the current system of judicial appointments by the governor followed by yes-no retention elections. Casada's bill is scheduled for a vote in the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday morning, and the Franklin Republican says he's confident he has the votes to move the bill to a full floor vote. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38518959?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|p

Bills to change pension plans stall in Legislature (Associated Press/Johnson)

Proposals to change the retirement system for public employees in Tennessee stalled Monday in the Legislature when a joint panel of lawmakers decided they need more study of the issue. One measure before the Joint Council on Pensions and Insurance expands the statute denying retirement benefits to state employees and officials who are convicted of a felony while in office. Under the proposal, benefits would end if there's a guilty plea. The state treasurer's office had some concerns with the legislation. It said the measure could be unconstitutional on the grounds that there's no language in the proposal to address restoration of benefits if a court later finds a person is innocent. Senate sponsor Randy McNally, an Oak Ridge Republican and chairman of the joint committee, delayed the proposal for two weeks to address the concerns. Two other measures were withdrawn from consideration. The proposals are similar and would essentially set up a so-called "contribution plan" for new employees and require the state to contract with an outside financial institution to manage the plan. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38515225?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|p

Long-Time State Retirees to Get Boost in Pension Checks (WPLN-Radio Nashville)

State employees who retired more than two decades ago would get a bump in their monthly retirement check under a bill to be reviewed Monday by a state panel. For some people in their 80s and 90s, their state pension has not come close to keeping up with inflation. Franklin Republican Charles Sargent, chairman of the House Finance Committee, says older retirees are averaging less than a thousand dollars a month, and he wants to give them a raise Those who retired back before 1975 would get about a ten percent boost in their retirement. But on the whole category of people, theres not a great number. State employees who retired after 1975 and before 1990 would also get a hike of as much as 7.5 percent. Legislative staff says the raise should cost slightly more than a million dollars a year. At the same time, the State Treasurer has been floating plans to cut costs for the $32 billion pension fund, including a transition away from the traditional defined-benefit plan. http://wpln.org/? p=33749

Latest call for Tenn. supermarket wine sales fails (Associated Press)
The latest effort to allow wine to be sold in Tennessee supermarkets has failed for lack of a sponsor in the state Senate, but supporters of the measure insist their goal is not defeated for the year. The Knoxville News Sentinel reports that Republican Rep. Jon Lundberg of Bristol had expected a better fate for his bill because it would require voters to approve supermarket wine sales in their city or county (http://bit.ly/zYrOic ). "Who could be against letting people vote?" he asked. But David McMahan, a lobbyist for the Tennessee Wine and Spirits Retailers Association, which opposes changes to the current system, argued that local referendums would allow big box retailers like W al-Mart and Costco to spend large amounts of money to spread what he called "misinformation." Lundberg scoffed at that statement. "The liquor industry is complaining it would be outspent?" he said. "That's funny." Lundberg said that while his latest effort has failed, there are still similar bills left over from last session that could be resurrected. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38512813?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

Latest Tennessee wine proposal dies on the vine (Memphis Business Journal)
Tennessee voters will not have their say on whether Tennessee grocery stores should be allowed to sell wine. At least not yet.Tennessee House Rep. Jon Lundberg, R-Bristol, had proposed legislation allowing wine sales in grocery stores in jurisdictions where voters had approved doing so. No companion bill was filed in the Senate, however, and the deadline to do so has passed, Knoxville News Sentinel reports.David McMahan, lobbyist for the Tennessee W ine and Spirits Retailers Association, told the News Sentinel this is a matter best left to legislators, not the voters, predicting that the Wal-Marts, Costcos and other big box stores would spend mightily to spread misinformation in the event of public referendums.Theres a reason we have a representative form of government, he told the News Sentinel. http://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/blog/morning_call/2012/02/latest-tennessee-wine-proposal-dies-on.html 4

Supporters continue to push for wine in Tennessee grocery stores (CA/Locker)

Tennessee grocers served notice Monday they're pressing ahead with legislative efforts to allow the sale of wine in Tennessee grocery stores. They plan to push the issue through local referendums despite opposition by liquor wholesalers and liquor store owners. The effort suffered a setback last week when no Senate sponsor signed onto a new House bill filed by Rep. Jon Lundberg, R-Bristol, to let residents of cities and counties petition for a local referendum on grocery wine sales. Because bills must have sponsors in both chambers, that bill died with last week's deadline for new Senate bills. But at least three bills filed last year on the issue are still alive and pending in committees in both the House and Senate, including one grocery-wine referendum bill that is almost identical to the Lundberg bill. Thirty-three states allow grocery stores to sell wine, but heavy opposition by Tennessee's liquor wholesalers and retailers has blocked legislation over the last five years to legalize wine sales in grocery stores. As a result, the Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Store Association launched a public relations campaign four years ago called Red White and Food to build public support. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/06/effort-approve-supermarket-wine-sales-tennessee-fa/ (SUB)

Bill to put wine in grocery stores dies, Rep. has more options (Herald-Courier)
The latest effort for wine to be sold in Tennessee grocery stores died because the bill did not have a senate sponsor However, the local representative sponsoring this bill says the fight's not over, and his opponents in liquor stores are prepared to stand their ground, as well. It's estimated about 22 million dollars in tax revenue would be brought back into the state, explains State Representative Jon Lundberg saying he plans on continuing his fight to make wine available in supermarkets. I think people want it for convenience to buy wine in grocery stores. Lundberg's newest bill- to allow each city or county to vote on whether to allow wine in supermarkets- may have died but he says that doesn't mean it didn't have support. It wasn't because the senate rejected it. I think it just got crossed in the paperwork transfer. Lundberg has another similar bill still alive as well as one to make the measure legal statewide. But liquor stores say wine needs to stay where it is. Nearly half our sales come from wine sales and that's the only two products we have to sale, says One Stop liquor store owner Phil Scharfstein, who adds that small liquor stores cant buy quantities as large as or expand their selection like a large grocery store. By no means can any wine or liquor store that I know of throughout the state pretend to be a Krogers, Food City, Ingles or anything of that nature. This is the way we make our living. We have these two products and we have it under control. http://www2.tricities.com/news/2012/feb/06/bill-put-wine-grocery-storesdies-rep-has-more-opt-ar-1669139/

Bill to change name of Mental Health Dept. (Associated Press)

A proposal to change the name of the state Department of Mental Health has passed the Senate. The measure sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris of Collierville was approved 31-0 on Monday evening. The legislation adds "Substance Abuse Services" to the department's name. The companion bill is being scheduled for a vote on the House floor. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38516545?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

Senate passes measure naming state evergreen tree (Associated Press)

The Senate has voted to name the eastern red cedar as Tennessee's official evergreen tree. The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Mike Faulk of Kingsport was unanimously approved 31-0 on Monday evening. Faulk has said that the state already has a state tree in the tulip poplar, but no official evergreen. He noted that the tree was used to landscape Andrew Jackson's Heritage estate and that the hill where the state Capitol is located was once known as Cedar Knob. The companion bill is awaiting a vote in the House Agriculture Committee. http://www.tennessean.com/usatoday/article/38516415?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

McCormick plan to change Tennessee's photo-ID law draws criticism (TFP/Sher)

House Republican Leader Gerald McCormick's plan to let employees of cities and counties use local government-issued ID to satisfy Tennessee's new photo-ID requirement for voters isn't sitting well with a fellow top GOP leader who sponsored the law. Republican Caucus Chairwoman Debra Maggart, of Hendersonville, said she specifically chose not to include city and county-government issued photo IDs for employees because she feared it might be abused by some local governments. "I have talked to Gerald and he knows how I feel about it, that I worked very hard to model ours after Indiana," Maggart said. "I feel strongly since I know it's passed muster that's the way we should go. So he knows that." Indiana's law was upheld by the U.S. Supreme 5

Court. Tennessee's law requires state or federal government-issued photo ID and doesn't include photo IDs issued by cities and counties as well as those issued by colleges and universities. "Indiana actually had an issue," Maggart said of her reasoning. "I think it was a county government giving them [photo ID] out to people who were not county employees. So that's why we chose to remove the city and county piece of that." http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/feb/07/tn-mccormick-plan-to-change-id-law-draws-criticism/?local

Proposal to exempt sales tax from funeral merchandise (Herald-Courier)

A bill proposed by an area lawmaker would relieve some of the financial burden of burying a loved one. Representative Matthew Hill of Jonesborough wants sales tax exemptions for consumers on funeral merchandise like caskets, vaults and urns. The last concern anyone wants when a loved one passes away is the cost of the funeral. Just ask Gerald Sparks, My mother passed away and I knew nothing about the tax." A sales tax sparks says, his mom is still paying. We pay taxes for all of our life on gasoline, groceries, whatever and then at death, we're still paying. And then after we die, we're still paying." 11 Connects spoke with Howard Alexander of Dillow Taylor Funeral Home in Jonesborough. He says the average funeral costs around $8,000 and that the sales tax can add up. He says, "An average would be somewhere in the neighborhood of $300$400." That's a 91/2 percent sales tax on all funeral merchandise such as a casket, vault, or urn. Representative Hill says he's pushing this bill because it can be a small burden lifted at an emotional time. Representative Hill says, "I can totally empathize from where they are coming from. If you are having to take care of the final arrangements for your mom or for your dad you don't need that added insult from the state, taking their cut." http://www2.tricities.com/news/2012/feb/06/proposal-exempt-sales-tax-funeral-merchandise-ar-1668971/

Steine, Garrett, Briley, Crafton weigh runs for Haynes' seat (CP/Garrison)
Barely 72 hours after longtime Democratic state Sen. Joe Haynes announced he wouldnt run for re-election, a gaggle of local politicos from both sides of the aisle confirmed Monday they are considering running for his open District 20 seat. Among Democrats pondering runs are At-large Councilmen Tim Garrett, Ronnie Steine, rookie District 4 Councilman Brady Banks and former At-large Councilman David Briley, a Nashville attorney who ran unsuccessfully for mayor of Nashville in 2007. Im thinking about it, and talking to my family about it, Briley said. Attorney Kevin Doherty is also exploring a Democratic run, according to multiple sources. The City Paper was unable to reach Doherty for comment. On the Republican-side confirmations are fewer, but interest is expected to pick up. Steve Dickerson, a physician who lost to Democratic state Sen. Douglas Henry in 2010, has already announced his Republican candidacy for the District 20 senate seat. Meanwhile, former Councilman Eric Crafton, who lost a bid for an at-large council seat in the fall, confirmed Monday hes considering running as a Republican for Haynes seat. http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/city-news/steine-garrett-briley-crafton-weighruns-haynes-open-state-senate-seat

Plan to reduce Hamilton County precincts may not happen (TFP/Haman)

The Tennessee General Assembly may have thwarted the goal of the Hamilton County Elections Commission administrator to save $75,000 by reducing the number of precincts based on the city and county's new districts. Election Administrator Charlotte Mullis-Morgan won't know until she sees a final draft of the new state maps, which she expects to receive this week. Meanwhile, an early draft of a precinct reduction plan would have cut or merged as many as 29 precincts throughout the county. But any previous attempts to draw precincts have been scrapped as the commission awaits new maps to replace the incorrect ones previously sent by the state. Every 10 years state and local governments redraw district lines to account for population shifts measured by the U.S. census. The state recently completed its new lines. Hamilton County and Chattanooga finished theirs last year. Mullis-Morgan said local officials carefully drew the lines to eliminate precincts with low numbers of registered voters, with the possibility of saving up to $75,000. But now she doesn't know if that will be possible. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/feb/07/chattanooga-plan-reduce-precincts-may-not-happen/?local

wo New Single-District Maps for County Commission to Pore Over (Memphis Flyer)
The Shelby County Commissions search for viable and mutually agreeable district lines continues Monday, and two new versions of a single-member-district map will apparently be presented. One, designated 2K, would seem to incorporate suggestions made at the last meeting by Commissioner Mike Ritz, who is keen on seeing firm dividing lines between areas now with in the City of Memphis and areas outside those limits. It posits 7 predominantly African-American districts and 6 predominantly white ones, the latter including four confined to 6

Memphiss suburban area. These proportions are in line with those the Commission has been attempting to observe, corresponding roughly to Shelby Countys demographic data as of the 2010 Census. A second map, designated 2L, is said to have resulted from suggestions made by Commissioner Henri Brooks. It posits 8 predominantly African-American districts and 5 predominantly white ones. One of the majority black districts just barely so at 53.6 percent would be confined to the countys southeast corner and would incorporate sections of old Germantown. http://www.memphisflyer.com/JacksonBaker/archives/2012/02/06/two-new-singledistrict-maps-for-county-commission-to-pore-over

Hamilton County Drug Court helps offenders stay clean, avoid prison (TFP/South)
Rodney Smith clutched Carlos, his black-and-white Chihuahua, as he stood before a standing room-only crowd of more than 100 people in court. Smith, 41, spent the past year going through the Hamilton County Drug Court and graduated Monday. After the ceremony in Criminal Court, where he was one of nine graduates, Smith said he had spent the last 20 years addicted to drugs. He had been through rehabilitation programs in California and Tennessee, but nothing stuck, he said. But a helpful probation officer, random drug screens and prison time staring him in the face got him through this time. The threat of state prison motivates drug addicts to enter and follow the recovery program, said Elaine Kelly, drug court coordinator. But it's not a bad way to save money, too. It cost about $10.89 per day to send Smith through drug court, or a total of about $4,000. Without drug court, Smith would have faced five years in state prison at a daily cost of $63.41, about $115,000 all told. Drug court isn't diversion; nearly all the 61 people in drug court have multiple felonies. The court's coordinators work with prosecutors to identify which people are good candidates. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/feb/07/tn-saving-lives-money-drug-court-helps-offenders/?local

Knox County to investigate 2009 KTSC payment (Knoxville News-Sentinel/Donila)

Knox County is set to investigate a combined $185,000 in payments it gave the Knoxville Tourism and Sports Corp. almost three years ago that officials now say could have been an "overpayment." The money was transferred to KTSC in May 2009 and distributed to various arts and cultural organizations, but county Law Director Joe Jarret said he is "presently unaware of a legal basis for such an appropriation." Jarret sent an email to KTSC board Vice Chairman Peyton Hairston on Monday, letting him know that he will ask the county's outside auditor to look into the payments. Jarret said he and county Audit Committee Chairman Joe Carcello agreed that Pugh and Co., the county's external auditor, should oversee the investigation. Hairston did not return a call seeking comment. KTSC attorney Ward Phillips said the organization will "fully cooperate with any audit or investigation (the county) requires." Jarret said the email was "not intended to be an allegation of wrongdoing." But, he said, the payments appeared to be outside the scope of the contract in which the county gives the nonprofit 45 percent of its share of area hotel/motel taxes about $2.4 million. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/feb/06/knox-county-to-investigate-2009-ktsc-payment/

Rep. Black: Getting Grip on Iran Requires Sensitive Touch (WPLN-Radio Nashville)
Tennessee Congresswoman Diane Black says there are many nuances required when dealing with Iran and its nuclear program. The Gallatin Republican visited several U.S. allies in the Middle East recently and got a glimpse of the complexities. On the stump its easy for hawkish lawmakers to speak forcefully about Iran. But after talking with Irans neighbors in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, Black says its not as cut and dry as one might believe. She says the consensus in the region is that the international community needs to increase economic sanctions on the countythough if the United Nations squeezes too tight Black fears it could hurt the Iranian people most and backfire on U.S. interests. Always where theres an up, theres a down. The flipside of that is if the sanctions get too tough that you start to galvanize the people that are not happy with the leadership. And for those that are not happy with the leadership we would like to see them push the leadership out. Black says U.S. allies in the region agree its unacceptable for Iran to get a nuclear weapon. For now theyre waiting to see if sanctions can compel Irans leaders to fall into line with international norms. But Black says if Iran refuses, a military strike will be necessary. http://wpln.org/?p=33763

Super PAC frenzy hasn't hit TN yet (Tennessean/Bewley)

March 6 primary likely to bring ad blitz if Gingrich stays in Political fundraising groups known as super PACs have generated national buzz over the past few months, but they havent made much of a splash in Tennessee yet. That probably is about to change. Tennessee is one of 10 states holding a GOP nominating contest on 7

Super Tuesday, March 6. If former House Speaker Newt Gingrich stays in the race until then as he has pledged he will then super-PAC-funded advertising is almost certain to inundate Tennessee airwaves, experts say. They think some Tennessee business interests may have been holding their fire to avoid backing a loser or irritating a winner. New campaign finance rules created after a 2010 Supreme Court ruling allow the groups to raise unlimited sums from corporations, unions, associations and individuals to run ads supporting or opposing individual political candidates. As of Monday, only one super PAC listed on the Federal Election Commissions website had a Tennessee address, and no Tennessee-based corporations or unions were listed among contributors to super PACs in 2011. Only 14 Tennesseans were listed among contributors to 16 presidential super PACs analyzed by the nonpartisan Sunlight Foundation, which advocates for greater transparency in campaign spending. Their donations totaled $6,575 a fraction of the $65 million those super PACs raised nationwide last year and included a single $250 donation to the PAC formed by comedian Stephen Colbert to lampoon the pervasive presence of money in politics. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/NEWS02/302070018/Super-PAC-frenzy-hasn-t-hit-TN-yet? odyssey=tab|topnews|text|News

States Target Foreign Law (Wall Street Journal)

Critics Say Bills Curbing Judges' Discretion Are Unneeded, Show Anti-Islam Bias State lawmakers across the U.S. have started 2012 with a controversial message to their judges: keep foreign laws out of our courtrooms. Twenty-one states are considering measures that would prohibit judges from applying the laws or legal codes of other nations in a wide variety of cases. Three statesTennessee, Louisiana and Arizonarecently added versions of such laws to the books, while a fourthOklahomaworked a similar change into its constitution in 2010. The movement is motivated largely by a handful of organizations that claim Islamic Sharia law and, to a lesser degree, laws of other nations, are creeping into courtrooms and American life, especially in divorces and child-custody disputes. Sharia, loosely defined as a set of moral and religious principles in Islam, is woven into the legal systems of many Muslim nations. It covers issues ranging from what to eat and drink to structuring a loan to setting up an inheritance and divorce, among other things. Virginia Delegate Bob Marshall, a Republican, said he decided to introduce a bill last month after hearing from constituents. "I heard concerns from people when I went door-to-door last year about foreign influence in U.S. law," he said, though he didn't recount any specific instances raised by constituents. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204662204577199372686077412.html?mod=ITP_pageone_1 (SUBCRIPTION)

States try to help veterans find jobs (Stateline)

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, visiting troops in Afghanistan recently, was taken aback by the answer he got when he asked a soldier suiting up to go on patrol what concerned him most. He didnt say he was most worried about facing the enemy that night, Nixon said last month. He looked me in the eyes and said, Governor, Im worried about whether there will be a job for me when I get home. Theres good reason for that soldier to be worried. The unemployment rate for veterans who have served in the military since 2001 is 11.5 percent, higher than the national average, which is now 8.3 percent. But the situation is much bleaker for veterans aged 18 to 24 they averaged a staggering 30 percent unemployment rate in 2011, according to unpublished data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. W ith U.S combat troops slated to leave Afghanistan next year and U.S. forces already out of Iraq, states are preparing to welcome back a large number of returning troops, many of whom will be seeking work. Nixon was among several governors who used recent state of the state addresses to outline plans to help make it easier for veterans to find jobs. Every veteran who needs a job should be able to get one, Nixon said. State governments commit more than $4 billion of their own resources annually to support the countrys estimated 22 million veterans and their families, according to the National Association of State Departments of Veterans Affairs. The benefits range from tuition assistance to helping veterans buy homes. http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=630092

Wacker Polysilicon to expand Charleston, TN, operations again (TFP/Leach)

Wacker Polysilicon officials are expected to announce an additional $300 million investment in their northern Bradley County operations after receiving a one-time $1 million property tax abatement for 2014. On Monday night, the Bradley County Commission voted 14-0 to approve the tax abatement request made by Wacker and Chamber of Commerce officials. "That $1 million would be to cover additional infrastructure costs and other additional costs linked to an investment that Wacker is considering right now," said Gary Farlow, CEO of the 8

Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce. W acker, originally having made a $1 billion commitment to its Charleston facility, ultimately will increase its investment to $1.8 billion, said Farlow. He noted that the company already had made an additional $500 million investment without asking for further concessions from the county. In addition to the property taxes that Wacker will provide the county, it will pump an estimated $65 million into the community through salaries and wages for its projected staff of 600 employees, said Farlow. "I think this is further proof that Wacker is committed to this community," said Farlow, stating that company is approaching a third phase of investment at the Charleston facility. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/feb/07/tn-wacker-to-expand-charleston-operations-again/?local

Nashville rolls out the green roof on new convention center (Tennessean/Paine)
A meadow is taking shape high atop the Music City Center-to-be. Unseen by passers-by below, workers have been squirting soil through fat hoses onto layers of protective and water-wicking materials. Next, they roll out coconut fiber mats on which plants are already growing. The point of the green roof is to avoid urban storm-water runoff that occurs when a building covers up the ground. Once completed in about six weeks, the more than four acres of largely out-of-sight greenery wont be forgotten. W ell baby this roof, said Scott McGaughy, owner of Landscape Support Services of Murfreesboro, which is putting in the nature-inspired roof. His company has installed such roofs in several locations, including on five federal buildings in Georgia. He also has contracts to care for many of them, too, which can be something of an art as well as a science. Theyre not a build it and forget it thing, said Brian Phelps, senior associate with another local company, Hawkins Partners. he landscape architecture and urban design firms installations have included a green roof at the Freeman Webb Building in Green Hills and also the parks over underground garages at both the Historic Metro Courthouse and the Hilton, a few blocks away. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/NEWS11/302070020/Nashville-rolls-out-green-roof-newconvention-center?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|News

Williamson Co. hopes for more jobs drive tax breaks for companies (TN/Adams)
Businesses in W illiamson County dont often get a discount on their taxes, but when such deals are handed out theres an expectation the public will get a return on the investment. In the case of new corporate offices for Mars Petcare, an $87.9 million construction project and 144 new jobs were deemed worth the risk. Absolutely. I think we have to help keep and retain businesses that benefit all of our communities, County Mayor Rogers Anderson said. Assuming no one gets cold feet, Mars will be the newest addition to a short list of companies in Williamson County that do not have to pay their entire tax bill. County commissioners are expected to vote on the deal Monday, followed by a decision from the Williamson County Industrial Development Board. The company makes pet food brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas, Cesar and Royal Canin. Mars has been occupying leased space in Franklin since 2006 and recently agreed to invest $87.9 million to build its headquarters along State Route 840 in Thompsons Station. To help convince the company not to take its project elsewhere, county and state leaders are offering cash. A state grant would cover $10 million in construction and design costs. An additional $2.22 million in property tax abatements, spread over a decade, is the countys contribution. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/W ILLIAMSON/302070024/Williamson-County-s-hopes-more-jobsdrive-tax-breaks-companies?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|News|s

Grading our Teachers: Evaluations revolutionary, stifling (CA/Garlington)

Washington launched a controversial teacher evaluation system two years ago that overhauled how teachers are rated and led to the firings of 7 percent of the teaching force -- more than 280 people. The new evaluations roiled the city; 80 percent of D.C. teachers believe it was not an "effective way to evaluate the performance" of teachers, according to a 2010 survey of more than 900 teachers by the local teachers union. And the chancellor who put the evaluations in place, Michelle Rhee, is now gone, after the mayor who appointed her was voted out of office. Nonetheless, this year the Memphis school district adopted a version of D.C.'s classroom observation method, one that reform advocates hail as revolutionary even as some critics say it stifles teacher creativity. Like Memphis, Washington is a high-poverty, high-minority district with a track record of low student achievement. Both places launched the new evaluations as a way to identify struggling teachers and either help them get better or remove them. Districts in the rest of Tennessee are also overhauling their teacher evaluations, after a state law passed in 2010 requiring them to do so. But Memphis is the only district to adopt the D.C. version, which is essentially a list of standards teachers must demonstrate during a classroom observation, such as promoting critical thinking among students or managing classroom behavior. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/07/grading-our-teachers-evaluations-revolutionary/ (SUB) 9

TN students, parents weigh their school options (Tennessean/Hubbard)

Families in TN, nation get more say on education Patricia Fouts house is two miles from Siegel middle and high schools, but she drives her minivan across town to drop off two children at Central Magnet. It adds about 20 miles a day round trip to her odometer, but she says its a better fit for her 15-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter. Rutherford Countys 2009 announcement that it would convert Central into an academic magnet school turned Fouts into a private investigator, studying the principals background, curriculum, class sizes and the building itself. Neighborhood schools are great its why we moved to the Siegel zone but for high school, if the kids are able to attend a magnet that offers a smaller class size, it affords them a better opportunity for personalized instruction, said Fouts, an insurance claims adjuster. About 14 percent of Rutherford Countys 39,000 students attend a school they chose instead of ones in their neighborhoods. One in four Metro Nashville students do the same; families received letters last month revealing whether they were accepted into magnet or other choice programs for the fall. Its part of a national movement to let the people who know children best their own parents decide the best way to educate them. As a result, more states are allowing taxpayer money to pay for private schools, a possibility that Tennessee is studying, or passing legislation that encourages more charter schools. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/NEWS04/302070026/TN-students-parents-weigh-their-schooloptions?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|News

Commission resolution could require 'fair market' value for schools (CA/Connolly)
Shelby County Commissioner Walter Bailey introduced a measure to require that the Shelby County Unified School Board receive fair market value or other compensation if it sells its buildings. But the measure failed to pass the County Commission after a key supporter left the meeting early to catch a plane. Bailey didn't bring his proposal through the standard committee review process. Instead, he introduced it as an add-on Monday, taking some commissioners by surprise. The move reflects tensions between the local governments and state legislature as they try to influence the Memphis area. The county and city school systems are merging, and suburban cities are considering whether to create their own school districts. A big question now is whether any new municipal school districts would have to pay for buildings that they obtain from the county school system. State Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris, R-Collierville, has said he is willing to introduce legislation on the issue, but wants to give local leaders time to reach an agreement before he does so. The school board is scheduled to meet tonight to determine its position on the issue. Bailey's proposal said that any transfer of school property could not take place unless the school board receives fair market value for the property or the school board receives other compensation that it deems fair. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/06/county-commission-resolution-could-require-fair-ma/

Bartlett residents say tax for schools is fair trade (Commercial Appeal/Bailey)
Meeting on results of feasibility study finds citizens onboard The bulk of Bartlett residents attending a Monday night town hall forum on municipal schools didnt seem too concerned about the level of local funding it would take to finance a Bartlett school system. When asked how much he is willing to pay, Tony Gray repeated a stance heard across the suburbs. Whatever it takes, said Gray, 49, who has an 11-year-old in a school in Bartlett. George Holder, a 65-year-old retiree, said the value of the system would be worth the increase to Bartletts $1.49 property tax rate. They can double it, triple it, quadruple it, and Im still for it, Holder said. Holder and Gray were among about 350 who attended the public forum outlining a feasibility study on a potential municipal school system in the suburb. The initiative comes in response to the pending merger of Memphis and Shelby County school systems, which includes the schools in Bartlett. Several people said before the meeting they were willing to pay the price, particularly when considering the alternative cost of private schools if they decided to take that route. Jon Freeman, 38, said he considers the option of adding a half cent to the sales tax rate as a better alternative than an increase to the property tax. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/07/bartlett-residents-say-tax-schools-fair-trade/ (SUB)

Schools merger a challenge for Gates reforms (Commercial Appeal/Roberts)

As Memphis City Schools looks for ways to continue funding its work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation after the grant money dries up, the question is how much will be needed if Shelby County Schools joins the effort. "We have to figure out what the expansion means for this body of work," said MCS Deputy Supt. Irving Hamer. "The merger on the horizon has presented a new wrinkle. If the work continues, it will have to be expanded because it would be touching another 4,000 teachers and 46,000 to 47,000 students." The Gates 10

Foundation has affirmed its commitment to Memphis several times in the 10 months since voters approved dissolving the MCS charter. But it won't comment about its commitment to the merged district. "Even if something is in the pipeline, I can't provide any insight into what future investment might look like," said Gates spokeswoman Debbie Robinson. "It will require a deep commitment from a number of players." MCS officials expect a letter soon outlining Gates' commitment to the unified district. In 2009, the foundation created by Microsoft founder Bill Gates pledged $90 million over seven years to improve teacher effectiveness in MCS. http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/07/uncertain-future/ (SUBSCRIPTION)

OPINION Editorial: Changes to state boards should be made on a case-by-case basis (N-S)
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam has proposed sweeping changes to the state's array of semi-independent regulatory boards. The state Legislature, which must approve the changes, should closely scrutinize each proposed change and vote on any changes on a case-by-case basis. Haslam's proposals are contained in two bills one that deals strictly with the Tennessee Regulatory Authority and the other that deals with a multitude of boards and commissions both familiar and obscure. Haslam set forth his recommendations based on a "topto-bottom review" of the complex structure of state government. Many of the boards and commissions addressed in his overhaul have a large degree of independence that insulate them somewhat from political machinations. The Tennessee Regulatory Authority is a large agency with a budget of $8.6 million that oversees a variety of industries, including utilities. The TRA has four full-time directors, each of whom makes $150,000 per year. Haslam is proposing the TRA move to a board consisting of five part-time members, each making $38,000 per year, and a full-time executive director appointed by the governor. TRA Chairman Kenneth C. Hill has said only one other state in the nation, Delaware, uses part-time regulators over utilities. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/feb/07/editorial-changes-to-state-boards/

Guest columnist: Judge-retention statute must be repealed (Tennessean)

Its time past time to repeal the retention election statute that violates the civil rights of the Tennessee voter to pick and choose their officeholders, a right for which I fought so hard as the Democratic nominee for governor in 1970. However, after I lost, the Democrats in the legislature, for political reasons of protecting incumbent Democratic judges, passed the unconstitutional retention election statute. I have always felt badly about this and consequently feel that I have a duty as a friend of the Tennessee Constitution as a retired lawyer and as a Democrat, to speak out since we Democrats have always stood for voting rights. The retention election statute provides, in violation of the Tennessee Constitution, Article VII Sections 4 and 5, that judges may be appointed to fill any vacancy in the office of appellate judge, even though Article VI, Sections 3 and 4 of the constitution requires that all appellate judges, like all trial judges, legislators and governors, be elected by the qualified voters both for the interim and the full terms. This right to vote that the constitution protects is the backbone of our republican form of government, which provides for government of the people, by the people, for the people. http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120207/OPINION03/302070014/Judge-retention-statute-must-repealed? odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Opinion|p

Editorial: Cyberbully legislation worth fixing (Daily News Journal)

Youve heard it before but apparently it bears repeating. You cannot stand up in a crowded theater and yell fire. Of course, technically you can do that, but you will be subject to the consequences of your actions. We believe 11

freedom of speech is one of our most precious rights. However, we do not believe our Founding Fathers intended anyone to use the First Amendment to infringe upon the rights of others, especially to the point of causing harm. We are each responsible for what we say, write or otherwise create. Legislation, such as libel and slander laws, is in place, and rightly so, to protect the reputation of the individual. And now, more than ever, our children need protection from bullies who have a new weapon in the form of the Internet to harass and humiliate. We are pleased Sen. Bill Ketron is working to strengthen a cyberbullying law passed last year, while simultaneously striving to ensure the legislation meets constitutional standards. The Murfreesboro Republican sponsored the initial bill extending the state's harassment statutes to offensive messages posted on the Internet. But the law ran afoul of First Amendment defenders, so this session Ketron is backing two pieces of legislation to strengthen it, making revisions with the help of the state attorney general and members of ACLU-TN. http://www.dnj.com/article/20120207/OPINION/302070022/EDITORIAL-Cyberbully-legislation-worth-fixing? odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

Sam Stockard: Womick bills on zoning raise myriad concerns (Daily News Journal)
Foes of Rutherford Countys comprehensive land use plan have a friend in state Rep. Rick Womick as they fight perceived encroachment of property rights and display fear that local zoning laws will coincide with a shadowy United Nations resolution. Womick is sponsoring two bills in the General Assembly this session, HB 3571 and HB 3572, that clearly target the countys nearly three-year attempt at rewriting its planning and zoning ordinance and could also affect Murfreesboros laws, if passed. People are upset about city government, county government and planning commissions telling them what they can do with their property, said W omick, a Rockvale Republican. Rutherford County residents led by Jake Robinson, the husband of Register of Deeds Heather Dawbarn, have told county leaders they believe the countys proposed zoning resolution is part of a United Nations plot to take over property rights, largely because it would limit development to one house per acre in rural areas. The proposal would allow more homes per acre in areas near municipalities. HB 3571 prohibits the county from adopting any principles of the U.N. Rio Declaration on Environment and Development and statement of principles for Sustainable Development dubbed Agenda 21 adopted in 1992. Because the U.N has enlisted the support of numerous independent shadow organizations to push Agenda 21, the bill would stop any connections with the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives and affiliates. http://www.dnj.com/article/20120207/OPINION02/302070021/STOCKARD-Womick-bills-zoning-raise-myriadconcerns?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

George Korda: Stacey Campfield, restaurant seating and the principle of thing (NS)
If restaurants are going to deny service to elected officials because of things they say, the no dogs or politicians allowed signs will be going up in eateries across the land. State Sen. Stacey Campfield was asked to depart the Bistro by the Bijou restaurant in downtown Knoxville because of the owners distaste for statements Campfield made concerning homosexuality. Restaurant owner Martha Boggs received a heapin helpin of praise for her inhospitality to Campfield. Sympathetic bloggers, readers commenting on related stories and others commended her for taking a stand against the senator. She has a right to refuse service to anyone she chooses is a recurring statement among those who dislike Campfield and appreciate Ms. Boggs. Following that logic, consider this: a legislator who supports homosexual marriage enters a restaurant. The owner not only opposes such marriages being legalized, but believes the legislator has been using phony information to support his position. He asks the legislator to take a hike. If you believe thats wrong, but think Boggs did the right thing on Campfield, that would becontradictory. http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/feb/06/george-korda-stacey-campfield-restaurant-seating-a/

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