Many Locals Temporarily Out of Work Due to Coronavirus Concerns

March 23, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

The Coronavirus threat is fast disrupting daily lives, from school, going out to socialize, and now for workers.

County Mayor Tim Stribling said Monday at least two local industries have shut down temporarily and other plants are cutting back on production.

“SW Manufacturing has shut down for two weeks. Its closed. Tenneco Automotive is closed but has not announced for how long. Star Manufacturing has reduced their work week to four days through the end of April. I made a call to Federal Mogul but have not yet received a response but I think they have had some layoffs. Although they are not automotive related, what is formerly known as Omega Apparel, now 621 Pelham, has closed this week. They may return to work next week,” said County Mayor Stribling.

March 23, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

Smithville Mayor Josh Miller announced Monday that the Municipal Golf Course and Green Brook Park (except for the walking trail) are now closed to the public due to the threat of the COVID-19.

“The City of Smithville as far as our government has stepped up. No one is currently allowed in our city buildings and we just made the call to close our golf course. That was a hard decision because it is an open air facility but the golf course is closed. The shelters, playground area, and restrooms are also closed at Green Brook Park but the walking trail will remain open. Again, we are trying to do all we can as a city but we know we can’t make people stay at home. My advice is that if you don’t have to go somewhere, don’t,” said Mayor Miller.

Last week Mayor Miller ordered city hall to be closed to the public for in-person visits or any business transactions through March 31. City officials are still working normal business hours but if you have a need you may call city hall at 615-597-4745 or the police department at 615-597-8210 or you may stop by the drive through window to speak to a city employee. Payments may also be made at the drive through window, by phone, at the city hall night depository, or online at www.smithvillecityhall.com.

March 23, 2020
By: Dwayne Page

DeKalb County has its first confirmed case of the coronavirus as of Monday, March 23.

County Mayor Tim Stribling released the following statement Monday afternoon to WJLE.

“We have been notified by the TN Department of Health that a resident of DeKalb County has tested positive for the novel coronavirus,” said Mayor Stribling. “The patient has been placed in self quarantine.”

“This is not unexpected. We are coordinating with the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) and the healthcare community to make sure all DeKalb County residents continue to be protected.”

“The worst thing we can do during trying times like this is panic. It is important to remember that the vast majority of patients that contract this virus have a mild course of illness and recover quickly. If you are ill with respiratory symptoms, it is very important that you call your doctor first. Do not go to the Emergency Department (ED) or any doctor’s office without calling first. We all have to work together to make sure our health care community is not overwhelmed with worried well.

“We will continue to closely monitor this evolving situation and will adapt our response as appropriate. Yes, this virus has caused some inconveniences. But those inconveniences are small compared to what we stand to lose if we keep spreading the coronavirus; our loved ones, the doctors and nurses who will care for them, our friends who are fighting cancer or who have other health issues. Social distancing might be a pain for you but it’s a chance to be a hero for other people. There might be some other inconveniences in the coming days but this will end and we will be stronger as a community.”

“Here are some things you can do to help.”

“As I mentioned, do not go to the doctor or the emergency department (ED) without calling first. Keep your hands clean and continue to practice social distancing. If you are feeling bad, stay at home. Keep an eye on our elderly. They need to be staying at home as much as possible and we need to support them and keep them safe.”

“We are working closely with the TDH and all agencies of government at all levels to minimize the impact on the residents of DeKalb County. That has been and continues to be our primary concern. We will get through this together,” Stribling concluded.

Individuals with specific questions can call the TDH Information line at 877-857-2945 or 931- 931-646-7586.

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