Hamilton County Commissioner Greg Beck noted in this week's meeting that none of his fellow members showed up for a second spin class at the county's wellness center.

"It was very strange that after the spin class last week nobody opted to come back," he said.

He vowed to be a leader in that area.

County Mayor Jim Coppinger followed him, encouraging commissioners, "If you enjoyed the spin class, then you're going to love the yoga class [Health Department director] Becky Barnes is setting up."

SCHOOL BOARD APPRECIATED

This week is school board appreciation week, Coppinger proclaimed.

Coppinger commended the board members as "a tremendous resource as local decision-makers, diligently working to meet the challenges of a dynamic world while ensuring that every child receives the services needed for a quality education."

DEMS TO HOLD STATE OF THE UNION EVENT

The Hamilton County Democratic Party will hold a State of the Union-watching party Tuesday night.

The event, which will be free and open to the public, will be from 8 to 10 p.m. at Blue Orleans, 1463 Market St.

More information is available at 266-4125.

KNOWLES COMMENDS ORGAN DONATIONS

County Clerk Bill Knowles, a founding director of the Tennessee County Clerks' Organ Donor Awareness Foundation, said Hamilton County motorists donated $30,253 in 2011.

"Even during weak economic conditions Hamilton County motorists have shown a tangible interest in aiding persons desperately awaiting 'the gift of life' by receiving an organ or tissue transplant," Knowles said in a statement.

The foundation raises money a $1 at a time and supports an awareness program to support organ donation.

Hamilton County's total was second-highest in the state.