The researchers at CountyHealthRankings.org just released their report ((link...)) on how thousands of U.S. counties are faring, Roane County included. Unfortunately, Roane County does not rate that well compared to the nation as a whole.

For example, Roane County has high rates of violent crime, low birth weight, traffic deaths, premature deaths, STDs, children in poverty, and adult obesity. Roane also ranks low in educational achievement and in primary care providers.

We have lots of work ahead if we are to improve our lot.

One relatively bright spot: we are lower than average at excessive drinking.

-- OneTahiti