Teachers can access valuable resources from state’s CERI center

(NASHVILLE, TN), February 3, 2012 --  Next week’s 200th anniversary of Tennessee’s powerful New Madrid earthquake should serve as a reminder of the need to prepare according to State Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill).  Tennessee was the site of three great earthquakes that have occurred in the Upper Mississippi region, including a major quake on February 7, 1812 which ranks among the most significant geological events in U.S. history.

Senator Faulk is a member of the Senate Energy and Environment Committee.

Although West Tennessee’s location on the New Madrid fault presents the most serious concern for the state, the U.S. Geological Survey reports activity has occurred in the eastern part of the State as well.  A strong shock centered at Knoxville on March 28, 1913, was felt over an area of 7,000 square kilometers in eastern Tennessee. Two shocks were felt in many places. In addition, an earthquake sequence consisting of one foreshock, a magnitude 4.6 main shock, and more than 30 aftershocks occurred south of Knoxville during the latter part of 1973. 

“The anniversary of one of the greatest geological events in U.S. history right here in our state should serve to remind us of how quick and severe natural disasters can strike,” said Senator Faulk.  “It also gives us an excellent opportunity to look at our state’s geological history and study the factors which make our state vulnerable to any future event.  But most of all, it reminds us that we need to be prepared.”

Faulk said the University of Memphis has the premier institute in the world for seismic study. CERI (Center for Earthquake Research & Information) which provides all the proof one needs to recognize east Tennessee is also a seismic hotspot.  The Center provides valuable resources to teachers and students regarding earthquakes and preparedness. 

"We have an obligation to let folks know that East Tennessee, too, is in an active seismic zone so we should recognize the signs of earthquake." said Faulk. "In the coming weeks I'll be sharing information with East Tennessee first responders about seismic activity just to make sure we keep our preparedness edge."

For additional information, contact CERI at 3890 Central Ave., Memphis, TN 38152.  Information regarding Tennessee can also be obtained from the U.S. Geological Survey at:  http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/states/tennessee/history.php.

###

(NASHVILLE, TN), February 1, 2012 -- Union County Eagle Scout Caleb Branum was recently honored with a Senate Proclamation congratulating him for obtaining the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America organization.  The proclamation was sponsored by Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill) and signed by Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey.

Caleb is the son of John and Rhonda Branum.  He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 401, where he has earned 39 merit badges.  Part of his public service activities included development of a Memorial Butterfly Garden at Horace Maynard Middle School in honor of Nakisha Williams, a student who passed away while in the eighth grade.

“Caleb is a shining example of the wonderful characteristics associated with Boy Scouts,” said Senator Faulk.  “There are many attributes and skills associated with achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.  Caleb overcome all obstacles and has met all of them to achieve this rank.  I am very proud to sponsor a proclamation honoring his achievements.”

###

(NASHVILLE, TN), January 25, 2012 -- The Tennessee General Assembly today approved a resolution sponsored by Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill), honoring Marine Lance Corporal Cody Evans who was injured by an improvised explosive device while serving in Afghanistan.  Evans, who is from the Speedwell Community in Claiborne County, is a graduate of Powell Valley High School.  He is attached to the United States Marine Corps 4th Combat Engineer Battalion out of Knoxville, Tennessee.

“Cody Evans’s courageous service stands as an enduring example of all the characteristics that have ensured the continued freedom of our Nation and the preservation of its ideals over the course of our history,” the Resolution states.  “It is appropriate that the members of this General Assembly recognize Cody Evans, commending his innumerable personal sacrifices to serve this country.  We hereby honor and commend Lance Corporal Cody Evans for his stalwart service to the United States Marine Corps and to the people of Afghanistan during his deployment, applaud his unwavering dedication to pursuing the highest ideals of military service, and extend to him our sincerest gratitude and best wishes for a healthy recovery.”    

“It was a great honor to sponsor Senate Joint Resolution 511 for this courageous local hero,” said Senator Faulk.  “This is small token of our state’s appreciation for protecting the freedoms that all Americans enjoy.”

###

 (NASHVILLE, TN), January 19, 2012  – State Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill) has passed a resolution in the State Senate honoring Volunteer High School Marching Band and congratulating them for winning four first place trophies at the 2011 U.S. Scholastic Band Association Tennessee State Championship.  Senate Joint Resolution 489 congratulates the 103 Volunteer Falcon marchers who participated in the event.

“The Volunteer High School Marching Band serves as the golden standard among its peers in the Tennessee and across the nation,” said Senator Faulk.  “Each one of these young women and men should be recognized for their commitment and hard work.  I am very proud of these young men and women, their parents, and their directors for achieving this honor.”

###

(NASHVILLE, TN), January 18, 2012 -- State Senator Mike Faulk (R-Church Hill) announced today that he will be holding “Town Hall Meetings” in order to meet with local citizens and hear their concerns regarding issues before the State Legislature.  The events will feature Tennessee’s Secretary of State Tre Hargett, who will speak to citizens about the new voter identification law.

The schedule for Saturday, February 11, 2012 is:
Grainger County -- 7:00 am to 8:00 am EST at the Grainger County Justice Center, located on Justice Center Drive in Rutledge
Hancock County -- Noon to 1:00 pm EST at the Hancock County Courthouse – Circuit Courtroom, 1237 Main Street, in Sneedville
Jefferson County -- 3:00 pm EST to 4:00 pm at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Dandridge
 
In addition, Faulk and Hargett will appear at the Hawkins County Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Breakfast from 9:00 am to 11:00 am EST at the Hawkins County Education Center, 1722 E. Main Street, in Rogersville.

"The General Assembly is facing decisions that affect all of us on many important issues like our state budget, jobs, education, and our court system," said Senator Faulk.  "I want to be open and available to hear from area citizens about these and other important issues before us, as well as offer any assistance to area citizens with state government agencies.  I am looking forward to this event and hope that we have a large turnout.”

The Secretary of State is one of three Constitutional Officers elected by the General Assembly, in joint session.  His duties include oversight of nearly 400 employees regarding a wide range of services.  He also serves on 15 boards and commissions, and as the presiding member of the Tennessee Local Development Authority and the Public Records Commission. 

The voter identification law was passed in 2011 which requires voters to present valid photo identification when at the polls to make certain that those voting are both legal residents and are the person registered to vote.  The bill is designed to reduce voter fraud and provides exemptions for those voting absentee, overseas, in nursing homes and for the infirmed and indigent, who may not be able to obtain proper identification. 

###