Speaker Pro Tempore 18th District
Sumner, Trousdale & Part of Davidson Counties
What's Happening at the Capitol?
For the first time this session, we were in the chamber daily Monday through Thursday of this week! My colleagues and I were able to get through several full calendars, setting us up to wrap up the 112th General Assembly in the coming weeks. On Thursday, I presented and passed Senate Bill 1005. This bill has been a joint effort among the Speakers of the Senate and the House, Representative Sam Whitson, and myself, and it was written in an attempt to increase transparency regarding campaign finances for elected officials in our state.
Sumner County Reagan Day Dinner
Last Saturday night, I had the distinct opportunity to attend and co-sponsor the Sumner County Reagan Day Dinner. The Reagan Day Dinner is always an enjoyable event organized by our local Republican Party. We enjoyed a delicious dinner, heard from Congressman John Rose, and learned more about many candidates who are up for election in Sumner County. I am grateful for the effort that the Sumner County Republican Party puts forth to ensure that we stay informed regarding current issues and Republican candidates.

I was honored to host Former Representative John DeBerry as my distinguished guest, and I am grateful to Representative Johnny Garrett and House Republican Leader William Lamberth for their enjoyable performance as the night's MCs.
Introductory Visit with BradenHealth
This week, I had the chance to meet with BradenHealth, an organization that works to refurbish and reinstitute hospitals in rural communities across the state. With seventeen recent rural hospital closures, their team is working to ensure proper healthcare is available for those who do not have other options nearby.
Child Abuse Awareness Month
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, so the Senate wore blue on Thursday in support of the effort to raise awareness. The designation is an effort to recognize the importance of families and communities working together to strengthen families. Many children across our state experience abuse daily, and we are proud to be a part of the effort to end the abuse.
For further resources, you can view the National 2021/2022 Prevention Resource Guide at the link below.
Willie Vaden's 100th Birthday!
Here in Trousdale County, we have a special citizen we would like to recognize: Mr. Willie Vaden. Willie worked for the Louisville and Nashville Railroad for nearly forty years. However, he is proudest of his seventy-two year marriage (1927-2017) and his two children, five grandchildren, twelve great children, and ten great-great grandchildren! As a resident of Hartsville, he continues to impact so many around him through his work with the local church, and we are thankful to have people like Willie in our community. Congratulations on completing your 100th lap around the sun!
Early Voting Opens!
On Wednesday April 13th, early voting opened for both Sumner and Trousdale Counties! Local elections are crucial to the success of our district, so I encourage all of you to go out, get to know our local candidates, and vote! Early voting closes on the 28th of this month.
Constituent Spotlight!
Last weekend, I had the privilege of attending an Eagle Scout Court of Honor ceremony celebrating three local young men who recently earned their Eagle Scout rank. The ceremony honoring Jack Oliphant, Scott Schmitz, and Ethan Callister was held at Indian Lake Elementary in Hendersonville. The location was especially fitting because each of the young men attended elementary school there, and every one of their service projects benefited the school.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend a ceremony the prior weekend for Eagle Scouts Caleb Coley, Ryan Dillon, Jackson Smith, Evan Hodge, and Rowen Wilkinson. I am continually inspired by the hard work and commitment of the young people in District 18.
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