It’s that time of year when digging projects get cranked up across the Volunteer State. Honestly, with our weather in Tennessee, do they ever really stop? Still, spring is the busiest season for homeowners to get out in the yard and start projects. April marked the official kickoff of National Safe Digging Month, with proclamations signed by governors across the country and many city and county mayors recognizing it as well. My co-workers and I partnered with some great folks to help promote the 811 message. Below are just a few of the safe digging events we attended in April across the three Grand Divisions of Tennessee.
West Tennessee — Paris
On April 20, Damage Prevention Liaison, Jay Richardson, teamed up with Paris-Henry County Public Utility District for the World’s Biggest Fish Fry Kickoff Street Dance. This free event was held in downtown Paris and included live music, dancing, and food vendors. Jay set up with General Manager, Jeff Hill, and his team from Paris-Henry County Public Utility District. They set up a table and gave out promotional items with 811 “Call Before You Dig” messaging on them. The event was well attended, with 2,000 folks spread across the courthouse square. A lot of catfish, hushpuppies, beans, and coleslaw were consumed. Speaking of consumption, I hope many folks consume that 811 messaging when they start their next digging project.
Middle Tennessee — Murfreesboro
I partnered with Atmos Energy on April 8 at their office in Murfreesboro for an outdoor appreciation luncheon. Operations Manager, Brett Lowe, coordinated the event, which included excavators, emergency responders, and employees. I set up a table with 811 promotional items, and we had some great fellowship. Atmos grilled steaks, cooked baked potatoes, and served salad and cupcakes for dessert. We had around 80 folks come by, and it was a beautiful day to show appreciation for those who work safely in the greater Murfreesboro area.
East Tennessee — New Market
On April 7, Appalachian Electric Cooperative (AEC) held its first-ever Senior Health Fair during National Safe Digging Month, seeking to reach its senior population in New Market, TN. Damage Prevention Liaison, Dean Anderson, participated in the festivities. The purpose was to emphasize the critical need to call 811 at least three days before any excavation project. This initiative promoted calling 811 to have underground utilities marked, while also bringing in important community resources from the surrounding area, such as programs that assist seniors with paying their electric bills and health care opportunities. AEC saw 215 of its members stop by throughout the day-long event. While at AEC, Dean appeared on their podcast, Powering What Matters Most, to talk about the importance of using Tennessee 811.
Remember to stay safe. Call 811 or enter a locate request online, respect the marks, and dig with care. Do you know someone in your company who fits the bill for a Damage Prevention MVP? What about someone you work with in the field? I would love to spotlight them for our next quarter’s Damage Prevention MVP. Please reach me by email at jfryer@tennessee811.com.