Mia Farrow, Day 4 Of Her Fast To Show Solidarity With The People Of Darfur

West Nashville Community Gardeners Employ Sustainable Agricultural Practices

By Betsy Thorpe


David And Hugh Prepare To Roll Out A Bale Of Mulch

On Saturday afternoon mulch was placed over the portions of the West Nashville Community Farm's garden where tomatoes, peppers, squash, melons, potatoes, and cucumbers are growing. The mulch will suppress the growth of weeds and will also help retain moisture in the ground. The use of mulch rather than herbicides to free the garden of weeds is one example of the numerous sustainable agricultural practices employed by Nashville Urban Harvest and the West Nashville Community Farm's volunteers.


The West Nashville Community Garden April 24, 2009

Earlier in the day volunteers erected a bamboo tee pee near newly planted bean sprouts. The sprouts originated from a rare variety of seeds donated to the farm by the heritage and heirloom company Sand Mountain Seeds. As they grow the beans will climb up the bamboo poles, saving the growers valuable cultivation space. To improve the garden's ecological biodiversity a maze of Sunflowers was planted throughout the plot. The Sunflowers will also attract attract beneficial insects to the garden. To encourage cross pollination by wild honey bees, David, the farm's manager added blackberry and raspberry plants to the garden's backside.


Sarah Of Nashville Urban Harvest With West Nashville Community Farm Volunteer Hugh, And The Farm's Manager David Stand Near A Newly Planted Garden Plot

Volunteers also added companion plants to the garden utilizing a method that not only helps decrease the use of organic pesticides but also increases the gardens productivity. Companion plants send off a scent that tricks or dissuades a particular plant's pests. Radishes were planted with squash, and sage was planted with onion, and mint and basil starts were placed near the tomato plants.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or in learning how to apply sustainable agricultural practices to their own garden should visit the farm on Saturday mornings between 9 am and noon. Sarah from Nashville Urban Harvest is asking for donations of dried grass clippings. The dried grass will be used to help make more mulch for the garden and can be dropped off at the farm on Saturday mornings. For information on how to purchase a share of this years harvest contact Nashville Urban Harvest. The West Nashville Community Garden is located at 1211 57th Avenue North.

Tennessee’s Child Passenger Safety Centers At Meharry Medical College Promotes Proper Use Of Child Safety Seats

By Betsy Thorpe

“Tennessee’s Child Passenger Safety Centers are providing an exceptional service to protect children from injury or even death.”
Kendell Poole
Director of the Governor’s Highway Safety Office



A Mural on the side of the The Middle Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center van pictures Meharry employee Ruby Thorpe and her daughter Mary, with Davion the son of Meharry sterilization technician, Kim Moore.


The Middle Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center van At Meharry Medical College

When you see the Child Passenger Safety Center van on your street, you can know that neigborhood children will be safer because it is bringing certified technicians to work with area fire departments, police officers, and medical centers to educate members of your community on how to install and use child safety seats correctly.

The Middle Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center at Nashville's Meharry Medical College was established as a place where parents can have their children’s safety seats inspected, adjusted, or replaced. The center's director Angela Brown said "73 percent of all child passenger restraints are used incorrectly", however she also stated that "“child safety seats if used correctly can reduce infant mortality by 71 percent and toddler fatalities by 54 percent." By educating the community on the proper use of child safety seats Meharry and The Middle Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center hopes to dramatically reduce the number of injuries and fatalities suffered by local children in automobile accidents.

For more information on child passenger safety, or to locate an inspection station near you, call the Middle Tennessee Child Passenger Safety Center at Meharry at 327-5900 or visit www.tntrafficsafety.org.



To learn more about Meharry Medical College go here.

Call President Obama at 1-800-GENOCIDE, and ask him to help the people of Darfur

Gatluak Ter Thach, Executive Director and founder of Nashville's Sudanese Community And Women's Center

"I don't know what the world can do right now about President Omer al-Bashir, he has the land, and as long as the land is still there it doesn't matter to him who dies on it."
Gatlauk Ter Thach
April 29, 2009

More than 20 years ago Gatluak Ter Thach escaped the genocide in Sudan by fleeing the country with his parents and younger brother. Traveling at night, it took them more than a month to reach the safety of the refugee camps in Kenya. The family spent several years living in various camps before Mr. Thach and his brother were allowed to immigrate to the United States. Arriving in January of 1995 they were sent to Sioux Falls South Dakota, where Thach says he "learned about cold". Later that year the brothers moved to Nashville a city Gatlauk Ter Thach says he has learned to love. Today with a masters degree from Cumberland University Mr. Thach is the Executive Director of The Sudanese Community and Women's Center, an organization he said he founded five years ago because "I had to find a way to get home and the way for me to get home was to serve my people". More than 8,000 Sundanese refugees live in the greater Nashville area. The Sudanese Community and Women's Center serves more than 200 members from the local Sudanese community every week.


"What I am going through now is nothing compared what the people of Darfur are facing. As things were, before the humanitarian expulsions, the rations for refugee were barely the minimum caloric requirement to sustain life-1000 calories per day. But soon more than one million people will not receive even that meager ration. The situation is urgent and dire. So, when I feel hunger pangs and my head aches, I think of them".

Mia Farrow, on Day Three of her hunger strike
April 29, 2009

This week Nashville Past And Present is asking our readers to fast one day in support of Mia Farrow and to help bring attention to the growing crisis in Darfur by calling President Obama at 1-800-GENOCIDE (1-800-436-62433) to ask that he and his administration do more for Darfur's people.

Future Harvest, Buffalo Valley Farm

By Betsy Thorpe


The hoophouse at the Buffalo Valley Farm holds hundreds of seedlings ready for planting

Using sustainable agriculutural practices the growers at Bellevue's Buffalo Valley Farm will cultivate and nuture a variety of fruit and vegetables throughout this year's growing season. The farm will soon provide healthy locally grown produce to consumers in Nashville and its surrounding area.

The Best Bathroom In America Is Located In Downtown Nashville

By Betsy Thorpe


The men's bathroom, located outside the Oak Bar on the ground floor of The Hermitage Hotel was part of the hotel's original design and symbolized Nashville's development as a modern Southern city.

The votes are counted and for the second year in a row Nashville's famous art-deco mensroom located inside the historic Hermitage Hotel won the Best Bathroom In America contest. In an online ballot presented by the Cintas Corporation,voters were asked to rate bathrooms on hygiene, style and public accessibility. The Cintas Company distributes bathroom hygienic products to hotels and restaurants across the country.

The Hermitage Hotel situated near Nashville's Capitol Hill, first opened in 1910. For decades the lime green and black art-deco restroom located on the hotel's ground floor has been featured in magazine and television advertisements, and in more recent years the rooms elegant and artistic design has provided the background for numerous music videos. According to local folklore important business deals and political negotiations have been finalized within the bathroom's lead-glass tiled walls.

When he accepted last years award for Best Bathroom In America, Greg Sligh, President of The Hermitage Hotel, said, “From the architecture and room furnishings to exceptional customer service, The Hermitage Hotel has an uncompromising commitment to excellence. This philosophy defines everything in the hotel – including our distinctive Art Deco men’s room, which has long been known as Nashville’s most unique and elegant restroom. It is an honor for this whimsically distinctive facility to be recognized nationally as well.”

The Hermitage Hotel located at 231 6th Avenue North was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. Today the luxurious hotel maintains a 5-star rating reflecting its excellent quality of personal service, elegance and style.

Announcement From Betty Hood, Coordinator Of The Bellevue Republican Breakfast Club

After two months of working with the Davidson County Republican Party Convention I am looking so forward to getting back to the usual breakfast club on Saturday, May 2nd. The group will be meeting at 8 AM at the Shoney’s Restaurant on Hwy 70. This months guest speaker will be Bob Schwartz, the newly-elected Region 3 Chair for the DCRP. Come and hear Bob as he tells us what he hopes to accomplish in the next two years during his term of office. There will be time for Q & A after his presentation.

Looking ahead, Matt Collins, the new Vice Chair of the DCRP, will be our guest speaker in June. Matt is an energetic conservative who hit the ground running with the party. He works with Phil Valentine’s radio show as well as promoting concerts. Please plan to be there to welcome Matt in June.


May and June are going to be busy! Here are some upcoming events.

May 12th Belcourt Cinema www.belcourt.org Homegrown Jihad movie premier for Nashville sponsored by ACT!WestNashville (produced by the Christian Action Network)

Open and free to the public.....seating is limited

6:30 PM doors open

7:00 PM movie followed by Q&A

Hosted by Michael DelGiorno ... Q&A with Bill French (Center for the Study of Political Islam) and Martin Mawyer (Director of the movie)

May 16th Citizens in Action Training Seminar ACT!forAmerica

Very limited seating....so if you are interested sign up immediately

for the Citizens in Action Training Seminar. http://www.newenglishreview.org/New_English_Review_Symposium/

Understanding the Jihad in

May 29th and 30th New English Review Understanding the Jihad in Israel, Europe & America at Loews Vanderbilt Plaza Hotel.

June 20th ACT!forAmerica West Nashville Chapter Meeting

Green Hills Library Meeting Room

12PM to 3:30PM

Movie/Speaker followed by update and group meetings

Hunger Strike Day One, Non-action is an act of acquiescence

Mia Farrow, 2009

Hunger strike. Day one
Today is the first day of my hunger strike. I have never undertaken anything remotely like this and so I have little sense of what to expect and although I have set a goal of three weeks, I really don't know how long I will be able to continue. I will be drinking lots of water.

Despite the fact that for six years the world has taken no effective action to protect Darfurs people it seemed that the expulsion of the aid agencies, the severance of the lifeline to more than 4 million people would surely trigger a response. But while the US Envoy Scott Gration said, "We need to come up with creative ways immediately, and when I say immediately I mean in the next weeks, to be able to compensate (for the expelled aid agencies. The weeks are passing and word from the camps is that people are already suffering; the water pumps at well sites are breaking down because there is no one to repair them, latrines are overflowing, food stockpiles are dwindling and there is no medical assistance. How can this be??!!

Hussein Abu Sharati, spokesman for a network of refugee-camps leaders sent a letter to President Obama. Mr. President," Abu Sharati wrote, "We need quick and immediate intervention to save us from the imminent death:... (the expulsion of humanitarian organizations ) is the regime's final goal and the deadly blow to accelerate our death by slow motion through starvation and diseases."

Non-action is an act of acquiescence.

Mia Farrow Begins Fast Today To Bring Attention To The Crisis In Darfur

Mia Farrow, September 2008

April 18, 2009

I AM PREPARING FOR A HUNGER STRIKE

On April 27th I will begin a fast of water only in solidarity with the people of Darfur and as a personal expression of outrage at a world that is somehow able to stand by and watch innocent men, women and children needlessly die of starvation, thirst and disease.

The Darfur crisis deepened on March 4th when the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Sudanese president President Omer al-Bashir for his essential role in the murder, rape, torture and displacement of millions. Al Bashir retaliated immediately by expelling thirteen key international aid agencies from Sudan, including Save the Children, Doctors Without Borders, CARE, Oxfam and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) along with three highly respected Sudanese agencies.

Sudanese U.N. Ambassador Abdalhaleem claimed his government would have no problem filling in any gaps created by the expulsions. But U.N. humanitarian affairs chief John Holmes spoke honestly about the desperate realities: "We do not, as the U.N. system, the NGOs do not, and the Sudanese government does not have the capacity to replace all the activities that have been going on. This is a decision which is likely to have a major impact on millions of people in Darfur who are in need on a daily basis, of life-saving humanitarian assistance." According to the UN, as of this May more than a million people will be without food aid, medical assistance, and drinkable water.

The United Nations humanitarian agencies issued their joint plea; "The suspended NGOs account for more than half of the capacity for the aid operation in Darfur. If the life-saving assistance these agencies were providing is not restored shortly, it will have immediate, lasting and profound impacts on the well being of millions of Sudanese citizens. These organizations provide a lifeline to 4.7 million people."

I undertake this fast in the heartfelt hope that world leaders who know what is just and right will call upon the Government of Sudan to urgently readmit all of the expelled agencies or otherwise insure that the gap is filled, giving aid workers unimpeded access to the populations before they begin to die in numbers that could dwarf the Rwandan genocide. I also call upon President Obama and other leaders with influence to help build a credible peace process that can end the suffering in Darfur.
I hope human rights advocates and citizens of conscience around the world will join me in some form of fasting, even if for one day. And when I can no longer continue, I pray another will take my place, and another-- until finally there is justice and peace for Darfur's people.

Mia Farrow

Veterans From Bellevue United Methodist Church To Serve Local Community

By Betsy Thorpe


Norm Nuismer And George Carney With The Bellevue United Methodist Church's United States Military Veterans Group

In January of this year a new veterans group was formed in Bellevue. The groups members who all attend The Bellevue United Methodist Church meet once a month to socialize and share information. Most are veterans of the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam. Although their membership includes both former officers and enlisted men, they now come together as equals. At their last meeting one member stated "rank plays no part in our fellowship."

Last August Norm Nuismer, the groups coordinator, and the former Commander of Nashvilles American Legion Post 5 joined the posts current Vice-Commander, John Furgess to present a 2,000 check to Joe Downs, the father of Sgt. Kevin Downs, a local veteran who lost both legs when he was wounded in Iraq. The donation was used to help purchase materials for the specially designed home that is currently being built for Sgt. Downs.

According to Nuismer this newly formed veterans group will offer service to their members and to their local community. He also hopes that other veterans who attend the Bellevue United Methodist Church will be inspired to join them.

Current Weight Loss Total For C L .....15 Pounds

With His Weight Down to 309 Pounds, A Pleased C L Gives The Scales A "Thumbs Up"


Just a few more weeks left. At first, I told readers on Betsy's Blog that I would lose 20 lbs. in three months - just like the last time I was on this program. Well, after looking back at records, it actually took me four months to lose twenty pounds.

But after some number crunching, I doubt that I could match that loss - even if I had an extra month. As of this morning, I weigh 309 lbs. For the past four or five weeks, I have been averaging a one-pound loss every two weeks

What was different this time? Maybe I should look no further than the calendar. My last program started in Spring. More outdoor physical activities? Maybe! Did I have a few more orders of onion rings this time around? Maybe!

Am I proud of what I have accomplished? Most definitely!

We have talked about me trying a new diet. What do you think? Is fifteen to sixteen pounds without cravings in three months (that fly by like three weeks) the way to go here? Or would you prefer to lose double or triple that amount with cravings in three months (that creep like three years)?
Tough choice (or is it?).

Weekly Address By President Barack Obama, April 25, 2009

WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Announces Steps to Reform Government and Promote Fiscal Discipline

In his weekly address, President Barack Obama reiterated his call for fiscal discipline and outlined the steps his administration will take to eliminate waste and increase efficiency. First, the President called on Congress to pass PAYGO legislation. Next, the administration will create incentives for agencies to cut costs and identify savings. Third, the administration will establish a process for every government employee to submit their ideas on how their agency can save money and perform better. Finally, the administration will reach outside of Washington for ideas by convening a forum on reforming government for the 21st century later this year.


Prepared Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
April 25, 2009


Good morning. Over the last three months, my Administration has taken aggressive action to confront an historic economic crisis. As we do everything that we can to create jobs and get our economy moving, we’re also building a new foundation for lasting prosperity – a foundation that invests in quality education, lowers health care costs, and develops new sources of energy powered by new jobs and industries.

One of the pillars of that foundation must be fiscal discipline. We came into office facing a budget deficit of $1.3 trillion for this year alone, and the cost of confronting our economic crisis is high. But we cannot settle for a future of rising deficits and debts that our children cannot pay.

All across America, families are tightening their belts and making hard choices. Now, Washington must show that same sense of responsibility. That is why we have identified two trillion dollars in deficit-reductions over the next decade, while taking on the special interest spending that doesn’t advance the peoples’ interests.

But we must also recognize that we cannot meet the challenges of today with old habits and stale thinking. So much of our government was built to deal with different challenges from a different era. Too often, the result is wasteful spending, bloated programs, and inefficient results.

It’s time to fundamentally change the way that we do business in Washington. To help build a new foundation for the 21st century, we need to reform our government so that it is more efficient, more transparent, and more creative. That will demand new thinking and a new sense of responsibility for every dollar that is spent.

Earlier this week, I held my first Cabinet meeting and sent a clear message: cut what doesn’t work. Already, we’ve identified substantial savings. And in the days and weeks ahead, we will continue going through the budget line by line, and we’ll identify more than 100 programs that will be cut or eliminated.

But we can’t stop there. We need to go further, and we need an all-hands-on-deck approach to reforming government. That’s why I’m announcing several steps that my Administration will take in the weeks ahead to restore fiscal discipline while making our government work better.

First, we need to adhere to the basic principle that new tax or entitlement policies should be paid for. This principle – known as PAYGO – helped transform large deficits into surpluses in the 1990s. Now, we must restore that sense of fiscal discipline. That’s why I’m calling on Congress to pass PAYGO legislation like a bill that will be introduced by Congressman Baron Hill, so that government acts the same way any responsible family does in setting its budget.

Second, we’ll create new incentives to reduce wasteful spending and to invest in what works. We don’t want agencies to protect bloated budgets – we want them to promote effective programs. So the idea is simple: agencies that identify savings will get to keep a portion of those savings to invest in programs that work. The result will be a smaller budget, and a more effective government.

Third, we’ll look for ideas from the bottom up. After all, Americans across the country know that the best ideas often come from workers – not just management. That’s why we’ll establish a process through which every government worker can submit their ideas for how their agency can save money and perform better. We’ll put the suggestions that work into practice. And later this year, I will meet with those who come up with the best ideas to hear firsthand about how they would make your government more efficient and effective.

And finally, we will reach beyond the halls of government. Many businesses have innovative ways of using technology to save money, and many experts have new ideas to make government work more efficiently. Government can – and must – learn from them. So later this year, we will host a forum on reforming government for the 21st century, so that we’re also guided by voices that come from outside of Washington.

We cannot sustain deficits that mortgage our children’s future, nor tolerate wasteful inefficiency. Government has a responsibility to spend the peoples’ money wisely, and to serve the people effectively. I will work every single day that I am President to live up to that responsibility, and to transform our government so that is held to a higher standard of performance on behalf of the American people.

Thank you.

Bellevues Buffalo Valley Farm Offers A Harvest Of Locally Grown, Healthy, Tasty, Fruits, Vegetables And Honey

By Betsy Thorpe


Buddy And Sydney Rogers Of Buffalo Valley Farm With Rotarian Jim Horde
Earth Day, 2009

On Earth Day 2009, Buddy and Sydney Rogers of the Buffalo Valley Farm shared their knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices with the Bellevue Rotary Club. Their farm is dedicated to providing locally grown food that is free of inorganic pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers directly to consumers in the greater Nashville area.

The Buffalo Valley Farm is located in Bellevue on land purchased by Mrs. Rogers parents, Doug and Evelyn Underwood more than forty years ago. Tended by three generations, the farm is a family operation. This year their garden will include traditional farm vegetables such as squash, tomatoes, beans, melons, corn, potatoes and greens, and more exotic produce like soybeans, eggplant and shittake mushrooms.

Shares in the farms' harvest are currently available for purchase. Shareholders will receive a half bushel of fresh produce each week for 23 weeks throughout the harvest season. Starting the last week in May non-shareholders will be able to custom order produce online from a list of available fruits and vegetables that will be updated weekly on the Buffalo Valley Farm's website.

In her presentation to the Rotary, Sydney Rogers recommended they read the New York Times article by Michael Pollan, titled "Farmer In Chief" . The article relates the importance of supporting local farming ventures-such as the Buffalo Valley Farm- that employ sustainable agricultural practices.

To purchase a share in the Buffalo Valley Farm's 2009 harvest, visit buffalovalleyfarmfoods.com

The Bellevue Rotary Club is one of the areas' oldest civic organizations and every week they host interesting guest speakers from the local community. Anyone interested in joining the Bellevue Rotary Club is invited to attend their weekly meetings. The group meets in the private dining room at Shoneys Restaurant on Highway 70 S for breakfast and fellowship every Wednesday morning at 7:30 am.

Everyday Is Earth Day For Bellevue Resident Dawn Lloyd Gilbert

By Betsy Thorpe



On Earth Day 2009, Dawn Lloyd Gilbert Makes Her Weekly Visit To The Bellevue Recycling Center


Bellevue resident Dawn Lloyd Gilbert who says she has recycled for most of her life, recalls how as a young girl living in Philadelphia during World War II her family recycled tin cans. The recycled materials were used at munitions factories to help make ammunition. "First we cleaned the cans and removed their labels, then using a can opener we removed the bottom of the can, we put the top and bottom inside the can and then we flattened it" she said.

Today Ms. Lloyd Gilbert recycles for the sake of environment. She is especially concerned about the dangers our waste presents to local wildlife and domestic animals. Once a week she brings her recyclable trash to the Bellevue Recycling Center. Knowing that an average of 300 plastic shopping bags a year are used by every person living within the United States and that only one per cent of those bags are recycled, Dawn Lloyd Gilbert is diligent about depositing her plastic bags in the recycling barrel located outside her neighborhood Publix grocery store.

The Bellevue Recycling Center accepts newspaper, mixed paper, paper board, cardboard, aluminum, tin, glass containers, and plastic bottles and containers. The center is located in Bellevue at the Metro Transit Authority's Park & Ride on Coley Davis Road and Highway 70 South. The Bellevue Recycling Center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Curbside recycling is also available to Bellevue residents.

Davidson County Property Reappraisal Meeting April 28th

Announcement From Jason Holleman, Metro Council District 24


Please join Council Members Emily Evans, Jason Holleman, Sean McGuire, and Carter Todd on Tuesday, April 28th at 6:00 p.m. at Julia Green Elementary School (3500 Hobbs Road) to discuss the current Davidson County property reappraisal. Metro Assessor George Rooker, Metro Trustee Charlie Cardwell, and a representative of the Metro Finance Department will be on hand to provide information about the reappraisal process and to answer questions from property owners.

Thank you,

Jason Holleman
Metro Council, District 24

Thoughts On Weight Loss, From C L

With His Weight Down to 309 Pounds, A Pleased C L Gives The Scales A "Thumbs Up"


Just a few more weeks left. At first, I told readers on Betsy's Blog that I would lose 20 lbs. in three months - just like the last time I was on this program. Well, after looking back at records, it actually took me four months to lose twenty pounds.

But after some number crunching, I doubt that I could match that loss - even if I had an extra month. As of this morning, I weigh 309.5 lbs. For the past four or five weeks, I have been averaging a one-pound loss every two weeks

What was different this time? Maybe I should look no further than the calendar. My last program started in Spring. More outdoor physical activities? Maybe! Did I have a few more orders of onion rings this time around? Maybe!

Am I proud of what I have accomplished? Most definitely!

We have talked about me trying a new diet. What do you think? Is fifteen to sixteen pounds without cravings in three months (that fly by like three weeks) the way to go here? Or would you prefer to lose double or triple that amount with cravings in three months (that creep like three years)?
Tough choice (or is it?).

April 20, 1960

By Betsy Thorpe




The day after the bombing of Alexander Looby's home, Dr. Martin Luther King arrived in Nashville. At a speech delivered at Fisk University and attended by many student activists and local civil rights leaders, Dr. King praised them as "the best organized and the most disciplined in the Southland." It was also during this speech that he first spoke the words most associated with the Nashville movement, "I came to Nashville not to bring inspiration but to gain inspiration from the great movement that has taken place in this community."

Today those words are an enduring reminder of the important role that Nashville played during the troubled times that preceded the great changes that later occurred in the South and throughout the nation.

Protesters Meet With Mayor Ben West, April 19, 1960

By Betsy Thorpe


Silent March, April 19, 1960, Nashville Tennessee

On the morning of April 19th word of the bombing of Councilman Looby's home quickly spread throughout the city. In response to the news, more than three thousand students and community members met at noon to protest violence and segration, by silently marching to the Mayors office in downtown Nashville. The protesters, lead by student activist Diane Nash and the Reverend C. T. Vivian were met on the steps of City Hall by Mayor Ben West.


Reverend C.T. Vivian, Diane Nash, Bernard LaFayette and Curtis Murphy confront Mayor Ben West

After Reverend Vivian read a statement accusing the mayor of "turning a blind eye to violence and injustice" and of ignoring segregation's moral issues, Diane Nash asked the mayor if he felt it was wrong to discriminate against a person based solely on their race or skin color. The mayor admitted that he thought it was wrong. Nash then asked if he believed lunch counters in the city should be desegregated. The Mayor answered, "Yes", adding "That's up to the store managers, of course.

The Bombed Home Of Alexander Looby, April 19 1960

The home of Z Alexander Looby
April 19, 1960

Z Alexander Looby, April 1960

By Betsy Thorpe



Zephaniah Alexander Looby .

Zephaniah Alexander Looby was born in the British West Indies in 1899. He immigrated to the United States in 1914. After earning a degree in law at Columbia University he was offered a position at Fisk University and first arrived in Nashville in 1926.

Looby soon earned a reputation as a respected civil rights attorney and political activist. In 1946 Z Alexander Looby and the future U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall joined forces to defend twenty-three African Americans who had been charged with murder following race riots in Columbia, Tennessee. The two attorneys won acquittals for all twenty-three defendants. In 1951 Looby was elected to Nashville's city council, becoming the first African American to serve on the council since 1911. Following the 1954 Supreme Court ruling in Brown v. Board of Education, Looby filed the first desegregation suit against the Nashville public schools and in the spring of 1960 he headed the twelve member defense team sponsored by the NAACP to represent the student protesters participating in the organized sit-ins at Nashville's downtown lunch counters.

On March 28th 1960 Z Alexander Looby arranged the release of approximately 100 students protesters arrested following a confrontation with white students in downtown Nashville. Less than three weeks later, at 5:30 a m on April 19th a blast of dynamite destroyed the Nashville home of Z Alexander Looby.

Hiroshi Sato, Consulate General In Nashville Brings Japanese Tradition To Nashville

By Betsy Thorpe


Consulate-General,Hiroshi Sato and his wife, Yoko Sato at the First Annual Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival

Hiroshi Sato arrived in the Unites States in the fall of 2008, to head the Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville. Japan is the first and only country to hold a Consulate-General in the State of Tennessee. The consular office provides services to the 9,000 Japanese citizens currently living in Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee and also works within the region to promote and aid cultural exchanges and to create and nurture business partnerships between the United States and Japan.

On April 18th, the First Annual Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival was held on Nashville's Public Square at the Metro Courthouse. The festival was established by the Japan-America Society of Tennessee with the help of Consular-General Sota. The society has set a goal to plant 1,000 cherry trees throughout the city, 100 each year over the next ten years. During the opening ceremony Consular-General Sota said that when he first arrived in Nashville he "dreamed of Cherry trees blooming in the city as a reminder of the lasting ties between Japan and Nashville". The celebration presided over by Mayor Karl Dean and General-Consul Hiroshi Sato included performances by the Taiko Drummers, a traditional Japanese drum troupe from Houston Texas and by Nashville school children who sang the national anthems of the United States and Japan. In remarks following the performances Mayor Karl Dean, said that he looks forward to Nashville's Cherry Blossom Festival " becoming an important date on the city's civic calendar". The festival concluded with Mayor Dean and General-Consul Sota participating in the ceremonial planting of Cherry trees on the Public Square. Following the festival cherry trees were also planted in Nashville's Centennial Park and in Forrest Hills.

Hiroshi Sato brings many years of experience to Nashville, he first entered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1973 and his overseas assignments include the Embassies of Japan in Washington, D.C, Malaysia, New Zealand and the Philippines. He also served as First Secretary of the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, Political Counselor of the Embassy of Japan in Egypt, Director of Ocean Affairs, Director for Protection of Japanese Nationals Overseas, Deputy Consul General of Japan in New York and in Hong Kong, China before he assumed his current position in Nashville.

First Annual Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival Photos

Weekly Address By President Barack Obama, April 18, 2009

WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Discusses Efforts to Reform Spending, Government Waste; Names Chief Performance Officer and Chief Technology Officer

In his weekly address, President Barack Obama announced that Jeffrey Zients, a CEO, management consultant and entrepreneur, will join the administration as the Chief Performance Officer, and that Aneesh Chopra, Virginia’s Secretary of Technology, will serve as the Chief Technology Officer. Zients will also serve as Deputy Director for Management of the Office of Management and Budget. He will work to streamline processes, cut costs, and find the best practices throughout the government. As Chief Technology Officer, Chopra will promote technological innovation to help the country meet its goals from job creation, to reducing health care costs, to protecting the homeland. Together with Chief Information Officer Vivek Kundra, they will help give all Americans a government that is effective, efficient, and transparent.

President Obama announced his appointments of the following individuals today:

Jeffrey D. Zients
Zients has twenty years of business experience as a CEO, management consultant and entrepreneur with a deep understanding of business strategy, process reengineering and financial management. He served as CEO and Chairman of the Advisory Board Company and Chairman of the Corporate Executive Board. These firms are leading providers of performance benchmarks and best practices across a wide range of industries. Currently, he is the Founder and Managing Partner of Portfolio Logic, an investment firm focused primarily on business and healthcare service companies.

Aneesh Paul Chopra
Chopra serves as Virginia’s Secretary of Technology. He leads the Commonwealth’s strategy to effectively leverage technology in government reform, to promote Virginia’s innovation agenda, and to foster technology-related economic development. Previously, he worked as Managing Director with the Advisory Board Company, leading the firm’s Financial Leadership Council and the Working Council for Health Plan Executives.


Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
Saturday, April 18, 2009


It’s not news to say that we are living through challenging times: The worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. A credit crisis that has made that downturn worse. And a fiscal disaster that has accumulated over a period of years.

In the year 2000, we had projected budget surpluses in the trillions, and Washington appeared to be on the road to fiscal stability. Eight years later, when I walked in the door, the projected budget deficit for this year alone was $1.3 trillion. And in order to jumpstart our struggling economy, we were forced to make investments that added to that deficit through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

But as surely as our future depends on building a new energy economy, controlling health care costs and ensuring that our kids are once again the best educated in the world, it also depends on restoring a sense of responsibility and accountability to our federal budget. Without significant change to steer away from ever-expanding deficits and debt, we are on an unsustainable course.

So today, we simply cannot afford to perpetuate a system in Washington where politicians and bureaucrats make decisions behind closed doors, with little accountability for the consequences; where billions are squandered on programs that have outlived their usefulness, or exist solely because of the power of a lobbyist or interest group; and where outdated technology and information systems undermine efficiency, threaten our security, and fail to serve an engaged citizenry.

If we’re to going to rebuild our economy on a solid foundation, we need to change the way we do business in Washington. We need to restore the American people’s confidence in their government – that it is on their side, spending their money wisely, to meet their families’ needs.

That starts with the painstaking work of examining every program, every entitlement, every dollar of government spending and asking ourselves: Is this program really essential? Are taxpayers getting their money’s worth? Can we accomplish our goals more efficiently or effectively some other way?

It’s a process we have already begun, scouring our budget line by line for programs that don’t work so we can cut them to make room for ones that do. That means ending tax breaks for companies shipping jobs overseas; stopping the fraud and abuse in our Medicare program; and reforming our health care system to cut costs for families and businesses. It means strengthening whisteblower protections for government employees who step forward to report wasteful spending. And it means reinstating the pay-as-you-go rule that we followed during the 1990s – so if we want to spend, we’ll need to find somewhere else to cut.

And this Monday, at my first, full Cabinet meeting, I will ask all of my department and agency heads for specific proposals for cutting their budgets. Already, members of my Cabinet have begun to trim back unnecessary expenditures. Secretary Napolitano, for example, is ending consulting contracts to create new seals and logos that have cost the Department of Homeland Security $3 million since 2003. In the largest Department, Secretary Gates has launched an historic project to reform defense contracting procedures and eliminate hundreds of billions of dollars in wasteful spending and cost overruns. And I commend Senators McCain and Levin – a Republican and a Democrat – who have teamed up to lead this effort in Congress.

Finally, in the coming weeks, I will be announcing the elimination of dozens of government programs shown to be wasteful or ineffective. In this effort, there will be no sacred cows, and no pet projects. All across America, families are making hard choices, and it’s time their government did the same.

That is why I have assembled a team of management, technology, and budget experts to guide us in this work – leaders who will help us revamp government operations from top to bottom and ensure that the federal government is truly working for the American people.

I have named Jeffrey Zients, a leading CEO, management consultant and entrepreneur, to serve as Deputy Director for Management of the Office of Management and Budget and as the first ever Chief Performance Officer. Jeffrey will work to streamline processes, cut costs, and find best practices throughout our government.

Aneesh Chopra, who is currently the Secretary of Technology for Governor Kaine of Virginia, has agreed to serve as America’s Chief Technology Officer. In this role, Aneesh will promote technological innovation to help achieve our most urgent priorities – from creating jobs and reducing health care costs to keeping our nation secure.

Aneesh and Jeffrey will work closely with our Chief Information Officer, Vivek Kundra, who is responsible for setting technology policy across the government, and using technology to improve security, ensure transparency, and lower costs. The goal is to give all Americans a voice in their government and ensure that they know exactly how we’re spending their money – and can hold us accountable for the results.

None of this will be easy. Big change never is. But with the leadership of these individuals, I am confident that we can break our bad habits, put an end to the mismanagement that has plagued our government, and start living within our means again. That is how we will get our deficits under control and move from recovery to prosperity. And that is how we will give the American people the kind of government they expect and deserve – one that is efficient, accountable and fully worthy of their trust.

Thank you.

Volunteers At The West Nashville Community Farm Increase Their Garden's Cultivation Space

By Betsy Thorpe


West Nashville Community Farm Volunteer Jeremy, Farm Manager David, and Nashville Urban Harvest Spokesperson Amanda, stand in front of the farm's herb garden and peach tree.
April, 2009

"Agriculture and the ability to feed oneself comprises the fundamental component of sustaining human life on earth, providing nutrition (and therefore, existence), stability and security".
Nashville Urban Harvest

Saturday, April 11 was a productive day at The West Nashville Community Farm. Several types of edible leafy greens and lettuce were transplanted into the garden's fertile soil and in the plot's recently tilled back half, new rows were prepared for sowing and then measured out. Later in the day volunteers dug trenches between the new rows to increase the the garden's cultivation and growing space and to ultimately ensure the farm a more bountiful harvest.

To learn more about the West Nashville Community Farm or how to purchase shares in this year's harvest, visit nashvilleurbanharvest.org

Nashville Fifth Grader Reviews Hannah Montana, The Movie

By Adriana


Fifth grader, Adriana Writes Her First Movie Review


THE CLIMB
I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there's a voice inside my head saying
"You'll never reach it"

Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking

But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going

And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on

'Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Somebody's gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa
From the soundtrack of Hannah Montana, The Movie

"My favorite part of the movie was when Hannah Montana sang The Climb".
Adriana

I waited a long time to see Hannah Montana The Movie and I was lucky because it came out on a no school day in Nashville, but I almost didn't get to go the first day because of the tornados by Nashville. I saw Hannah Montana The Movie at the Regal Theatre in Nashville, because it wasn't playing at my favorite theatre in Bellevue.

This is the best movie I have ever seen and I want to see it again. Hannah Montanta has to decide who she wants to be. I know who she picks, but I am not going to tell. My favorite part of the movie was when Hannah Montana sang The Climb.

I hope Miley Cyrus makes more movies and everyone that likes Hannah Montana should go to this movie.

Good News For NES Customers, Rates Will Decrease In April

Last week a spokesperson for Nashville Electric Service announced that the TVA Fuel Cost Adjustment has dropped approximately 5% this quarter and from April through June, NES cutomeers will see an average savings of $4.00 to $8.00 on their monthly bill. Combined with the 6% decrease in January 2009, TVA has lowered the Fuel Cost Adjustment by 11% in the last six months. The decrease is the result of lower fuel and purchaseBy Betsy Thorpe
d power costs.

The fuel cost adjustment is calculated by comparing the actual cost of fuel and purchased power with the projected costs the rates were based on. The difference is then multiplied by the kilowatt-hours of energy used to account for any change. The variable energy rate can fluctuate each quarter as many factors such as the weather, changes in the price of coal and natural gas, and unforeseen changes in the operations of TVA's generating plants affect the price of purchased fuel and power. The varying nature of those factors make it difficult for the TVA to predict the amount of revenue required to cover the cost of producing power. By using the calculated Fuel Cost Adjustment they are able to avoid making permanent rate increases as the adjustment allows them to quickly match costs with revenue.

For customer questions regarding the TVA Fuel Cost Adjustment or for NES billing inquiries call 615-736-6900

Nashville, Spring 1960

By Betsy Thorpe
Walgreens Drugstore
Nashville Tennessee
March, 1960
Banner Photo, Courtesy Nashville Public Library Special Collections

Students participating in Nashville's sit-ins were required to follow ten rules of conduct.
10 Rules of Conduct
Do Not:

Strike back nor curse if abused laugh out or
Hold conversations with a floor walker
Leave your seat until your leader has given you permission to do so
Block entrances to stores outside nor the aisles inside

Do:

Show yourself friendly and courteous at all times
Sit straight: always face the counter
Report all serious incidents to your leader
Refer information seekers to your leader in a polite manner
Remember the teachings of Jesus Christ, Mahatma Ghandi and Martin Luther King
Love and non-violence is the way

Sit-ins targeting Nashville's downtown department stores began in February, 1960. Participating in the sit-ins were students who had received instruction in Ghandi's techniques of non-violent civil disobedience, from Vanderbilt Divinity School student James Lawson. In the beginning the sit-ins were peaceful and orderly, but by the end of March they had become increasingly violent and on March 27th, close to one hundred student protesters were arrested. In the following days racial tensions escalated throughout the city and on April 19th a cataclysmic event occurred forcing the students and the city's officials to come together in a meeting.

For the next few weeks Nashville Past And Present will present articles relating some of the important historic events that occurred in Nashville during the tumultuous spring of 1960.

The People’s House: A Temple of Democracy, Exhibit Tennessee State Museum

By Betsy Thorpe
Tennessee State Capitol, around 1860
Photo Courtesy Tennessee State Library And Archives

The People’s House: A Temple of Democracy, 150th Anniversary of the Volunteer State Capitol opened at the State Museum on April 1, and will continue through August 9, 2009. The Tennessee State Museum is located at Fifth and Deaderick streets in downtown Nashville. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The museum, which is closed on Mondays, is free to the public.

The Tennessee State Museum's special sesquicentennial exhibit, marking the 150th anniversary of Tennessee's State Capitol building opened on April 1st. The special exhibit celebrates the rich history of Tennessee's most magnificent building and the accomplishments of the Tennessee state government.

The construction of the Capitol was completed in 1859 and was a triumph of both architecture and engineering. State Museum Executive Director Lois Riggins-Ezzell calls the Capitol “the ultimate symbol of our state’s achievements and its rich history — it is a true temple of democracy.” Tennessee's influence on our nation’s history is shown through various historic documents, paintings, photographs and other items. The exhibits artifacts include, Civil War era photographs, an original letter from David Crockett, written while he served as a Tennessee congressman; a flag carried by the fifth Confederate Regiment a desk owned by Governor Isham Harris; and the inaugural gown worn by First Lady Betty Dunn in 1971.

By celebrating a major milestone in the life of the Capitol, The People’s House: A Temple of Democracy, provides museum visitors with a look at the Tennessee State Capitol building's fascinating history and into the state of Tennessee's proud heritage.

To My Friends And Family

Hello everyone, as most of you know the Thorpe family recently enjoyed five magical days at Walt Disney World in Orlando, with my mother, my sister-n-law Nanci and my niece and nephew, Jennifer and Chris.

Posted below are four of my favorite photos taken during our exciting visit to Disney World.

I am sending a note of thanks to my mom, who made this trip happen for us.

Thanks again mom, we had a wonderful time and the girls will always remember the special moments you shared with them in the Magical Kingdom.

West Nashville Community Farm Restores Local Historic Tradition

By Betsy Thorpe


West Nashville Community Farm
1211 57th Avenue North
April 8, 2009

A community garden or farm is a plot of land tended by a group of people to ensure food security for their community by producing nutritious and healthy food. Through social interaction they often improve individual quality of life by providing a gathering place for members of the community. The surplus of their harvest creates income opportunities for the group and encourages the community's economic development.

Near the end of the last ice age, Nashville's earliest communities were established near the Cumberland River and along the banks of Richland Creek. Today, the stream terraces overlooking Richland Creek are part of modern day West Nashville. However, long before the first European settlers ever set foot in Tennessee, this area was home to various organized, communal, agricultural societies. Throughout the centuries these early inhabitants built roads, engaged in commerce, and cultivated corn and beans. By the time Spanish explorers arrived in Middle Tennessee, the last of the great native societies, the Mississippian Mound Builders had mysteriously disappeared from the towns and villages that once thrived along the banks of Richland Creek.

In 1779, after selecting the location for the future Fort Nashborough, Nashville's founding father James Robertson followed the Cumberland River to the mouth of a creek that he later named Richland. While exploring the banks alongside the creek he discovered fields of wild corn growing, a living reminder of the vibrant native societies that once populated the area.

In the spring following the construction of Fort Nashborough, James Robertson sowed corn in the fertile soil near Richland Creek. In the fall he shared the bounty of his harvest with the two hundred settlers living inside the fort.


In 1784 James Robertson moved his extended family to Robertson Station. The enclosure, situated near the mouth of Richland Creek included several acres set aside for farming.

For more than a hundred years West Nashville remained an agricultural community. During prohibition, a large quantity of whiskey was distilled and sold by local bootleggers who benefited from the area's ample supply of corn.

Today the West Nashville Community Farm, located on land first cultivated by the region's earliest inhabitants, and growing in soil once tended by Nashville's founding father, restores the tract's historic tradition of supplying food to the local community. The farm is operated by Nashville Urban Harvest, a group that envisions a food secure society where all people have access to fresh, healthy, and locally grown foods. Shares in the farms seasonal harvest are available for purchase, limited shares are also available to volunteers who donate labor to the farm.

For more information on the West Nashville Community Farm and Nashville Urban Harvest visit nashvilleurbanharvest.org

A Brief History Of Nashville's Jewish Community

Passover began at sundown on Wednesday April 8 and will end at nightfall on Thursday April 16.

In honor of Passover and the local Jewish Community I am posting an article provided by Nashville historian, Annette Rankin. The historic photo shown with this article was added by Nashville Past And Present and is not part of the original publication.


Photo, Courtesy Tennessee State Library And Archives

A Brief History of the Nashville Jewish Community

Courtesy,the Archives of the Jewish Federation of Nashville

Nashville dates its beginning from 1780, and by the 1840s there were enough Jewish men to meet for services. In 1851, the group established a Hebrew Benevolent Burial Association, and purchased property for a cemetery. This property is part of The Temple Cemetery, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

1851 marks the founding date of The Temple, Congregation,Ohabai Shalom, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2001. This congregation, the first in Nashville and in the State of Tennessee, was first chartered in 1854 as Mogen David, in honor of Davidson County. A second congregation, Ohava Emes, was chartered in 1860.
Mogen David and Ohava Emes united in 1867, and the merged congregation was called Ohavai Shalom. The Vine Street Temple, now The Temple, was dedicated in 1876, and became one of the first members of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations.

Congregation Adath Israel, which became West End Synagogue, Nashville’s Conservative synagogue, was chartered in 1876, and built a synagogue on Gay Street in 1902. In the early 1870s the Hungarian Benevolent Society was organized. It met in a little house next to the Ryman Auditorium, pictured in the murals of Nashville landmarks at Opryland Hotel. Chartered in 1905, the Orthodox congregation Sherith Israel built a shul on the site of the house next to the Ryman Auditorium in 1920. All three of these congregations moved to their present locations in the 1940s and 1950s.

Congregation Micah, a Reform congregation, began in 1992, and celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2002.

The YMHA was founded in 1902, and celebrated its centennial as the Gordon Jewish Community Center. The Jewish Community Council began in 1936 and became the Jewish Federation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee, the central voluntary communal organization of the Nashville Jewish community.

Akiva School, the Jewish community elementary day school began in 1954 and moved to its present location on the campus of the Gordon Jewish Community Center in 1999.

Jewish Family Service in 2003 celebrated its 150th year of social service to the Jewish and general communities of Nashville. The Nashville Section of National Council of Jewish Women in 2001 observed its 100th year of volunteer community service. Hadassah was founded in 1926 and continues its support of the State of Israel today. B’nai B’rith began in 1863.

Congregation Beit Tefilah, based on Chabad, was founded in 2001. In 2002, the Ben Schulman Center for Jewish Life was opened on the campus of Vanderbilt University. It houses Grins, a kosher vegetarian restaurant,

These organizations and institutions help to make a vibrant Jewish life for the eight thousand Jews comprising the Nashville Jewish community.

Hannah Montana The Movie, Review, By Nashville Fifth Grader Adriana, Coming Soon To Nashville Past And Present

On Friday April 10, Nashville fifth grader and informed Miley Cyrus fan Adriana T, attended Nashville's premier public viewing of Hannah Montana The Movie.

Her review of the movie will soon post on Nashville Past And Present.

(Unfortunately for our readers, her mother insists that Adriana's homework and clarinet practice be completed before writing a review for this blog, so it will be a few more days before the review is written and posted.)

Bo, The First Dog Arrives At The White House

The Obama family welcomes Bo, a six-month old Portuguese Water Dog and a gift from Senator and Mrs. Kennedy to Sasha and Malia, to the White House.
White House photo by, Pete Souza

Award Winning, Canadian Songstress, Shantel Adams Approaches Her Destiny

By Betsy Thorpe


Shantel Adams,
Bellevue Tennessee

Gifted musician Shantel Adams frequently visits Nashville but numerous songwriters, entertainers and producers working inside the city's music industry want to see more of the down to earth, bluesy, award winning Canadian songstress. Many prominent local writers and publishers hope that Ms. Adams will soon make Music City her permanent home. One publisher, Chad Segura, Vice President of Word Publishing said, Shantel " has a unique sound and a natural song sense, and I look forward to watching her continue to grow as an artist and a writer." Impressed by Shantel's versatility, established songwriter Pam Belford (whose song If I Know Me, appears on the George Strait album, Strait Out Of The Box) once wrote that Shantel Adams "is equally adept at writing and singing a heartfelt ballad, a contemporary Christian tune that reflects her own faith, or a sassy, humorous gut-buster of a country song full of attitude".

Shantel Adams who lives in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, started picking guitar when she was fifteen and soon started writing her own songs. Following a series of successes in Canada she first in arrived Nashville in 1999 to perfect her writing and to develop her skills as a singer and performer. Her motto "just be yourself" reflects her open and friendly personality and easy stage presence.

The recipient of numerous awards and accolades, Shantel Adams is very proud of the award delivered by the Tennessee Songwriters Association at their 23rd annual banquet in Nashville. The award designated her the years Most Promising Female Songwriter. Pleased to be recognized as a Nashville songwriter and embraced by the city's community of professional musicians, Shantel greets each day with optimism and goodwill. When asked about the future of her musical career, she confidently responded with a quote from Wynonna Judd, "You just have to keep showing up, and wait for God to walk in the room." A similar sentiment is shared by a growing number of fans both north and south of the border, who all agree that Shantel Adams will soon fulfill her destiny, it really is just a matter of time.

For more information on Shantel Adams, visit shanteladams.com

Weekly Address By President Barack Obama, April 11, 2009

WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Says Nations Must Unite To Overcome Global Challenges


In his weekly address, President Barack Obama extended his best wishes to everyone celebrating this week’s Passover and Easter holidays and called on nations around the world to come together to solve the current trials facing the world. On the heels of his weeklong trip overseas, the President said he believes it is important to acknowledge no single nation can solve global problems like a recession, international terrorism, climate change, or nuclear proliferation. But, working with other nations, the United States can lead the way in overcoming these challenges.

Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
Saturday, April 11, 2009


I speak to you today during a time that is holy and filled with meaning for believers around the world. Earlier this week, Jewish people gathered with family and friends to recite the stories of their ancestors’ struggle and ultimate liberation. Tomorrow, Christians of all denominations will come together to rejoice and remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

These are two very different holidays with their own very different traditions. But it seems fitting that we mark them both during the same week. For in a larger sense, they are both moments of reflection and renewal. They are both occasions to think more deeply about the obligations we have to ourselves and the obligations we have to one another, no matter who we are, where we come from, or what faith we practice.

This idea – that we are all bound up, as Martin Luther King once said, in "a single garment of destiny"– is a lesson of all the world’s great religions. And never has it been more important for us to reaffirm that lesson than it is today – at a time when we face tests and trials unlike any we have seen in our time. An economic crisis that recognizes no borders. Violent extremism that’s claimed the lives of innocent men, women, and children from Manhattan to Mumbai. An unsustainable dependence on foreign oil and other sources of energy that pollute our air and water and threaten our planet. The proliferation of the world’s most dangerous weapons, the persistence of deadly disease, and the recurrence of age-old conflicts.

These are challenges that no single nation, no matter how powerful, can confront alone. The United States must lead the way. But our best chance to solve these unprecedented problems comes from acting in concert with other nations. That is why I met with leaders of the G-20 nations to ensure that the world’s largest economies take strong and unified action in the face of the global economic crisis. Together, we’ve taken steps to stimulate growth, restore the flow of credit, open markets, and dramatically reform our financial regulatory system to prevent such crises from occurring again – steps that will lead to job creation at home.

It is only by working together that we will finally defeat 21st century security threats like al Qaeda. So it was heartening that our NATO allies united in Strasbourg behind our strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and contributed important resources to support our effort there.

It is only by coordinating with countries around the world that we will stop the spread of the world’s most dangerous weapons. That is why I laid out a strategy in Prague for us to work with Russia and other nations to stop the proliferation of nuclear weapons; to secure nuclear materials from terrorists; and, ultimately, to free the world from the menace of a nuclear nightmare.

And it is only by building a new foundation of mutual trust that we will tackle some of our most entrenched problems. That is why, in Turkey, I spoke to members of Parliament and university students about rising above the barriers of race, region, and religion that too often divide us.

With all that is at stake today, we cannot afford to talk past one another. We can’t afford to allow old differences to prevent us from making progress in areas of common concern. We can’t afford to let walls of mistrust stand. Instead, we have to find – and build on – our mutual interests. For it is only when people come together, and seek common ground, that some of that mistrust can begin to fade. And that is where progress begins.

Make no mistake: we live in a dangerous world, and we must be strong and vigilant in the face of these threats. But let us not allow whatever differences we have with other nations to stop us from coming together around those solutions that are essential to our survival and success.

As we celebrate Passover, Easter, and this time of renewal, let’s find strength in our shared resolve and purpose in our common aspirations. And if we can do that, then not only will we fulfill the sacred meaning of these holy days, but we will fulfill the promise of our country as a leader around the world.

Women Owned Nashville Business Offers Self Publishing Services To Authors

By Betsy Thorpe


A Selection Of Books Published At Published By Westview



Published by Westview, Bellevue's author-friendly book company, will soon mark the first anniversary of their split from their parent company, Westview Publishing. The print-on-demand book publishing division was originally launched in 2003 as a subdivision of Westview Publishing, in response to numerous requests the company received from local authors, and to further the Westview's interest in serving Middle Tennessee's artistic and literary community.

Published by Westview, Inc., which officially branched off on its own last year, is a cross between self-publishing and a traditional publishing company. They are technically a “subsidy press,” meaning the author pays the company to do the layout, design the cover, provide the ISBN number, and complete the various other tasks that go along with publishing a book. They also pay royalties to authors for books sold.
The majority of Westview’s publications are “Print On Demand” or POD, a digital printing option that makes it possible for authors to purchase one copy of a book at a time, or thousands. POD is ideal for writers who want to hold down expenses while having the option of ordering exactly the number of books they need, when they need them. Published by Westview offers POD through Lightning Source, an Ingram subsidiary, and also through a number of specialty printing presses.

The company, owned by Paula Underwood-Winters and Mary Catharine Nelson, currently hosts a roster of close to 200 published authors (as of April 9, 2009). Nashville is home to an extraordinary community of writers and 77 of the authors listed on the company's roster live in Nashville and its surrounding counties, with the remaining authors residing throughout the United States and in various foreign countries. The company's global reputation of offering professional and affordable self-publishing options is rapidly spreading.

Working with authors who publish a wide range of genres, Published by Westview's books include novels, autobiographies, genealogical histories, cookbooks, textbooks, motivational works and poetry. Co-owner Mary Catharine Nelson said, “I believe everyone should be able to be a published author. I take great delight in turning ideas into books and creating book packages that makes our authors happy.” Nelson, who is herself a published author, understands the sense of achievement writers experience when they see their works in print for the first time. Mary Catharine does most of the internal layout and design, and occasionally designs covers as well.

Nelson's business partner, Paula Underwood-Winters, brings more than thirty years of publishing, editing and photographic experience to their company. Trained as a photographer, Ms. Underwood-Winters utilizes her artist's eye to create original graphic layouts for most of their customers’ book covers. She said, “Our covers are all customized. We never use templates. Each one is individual to the author and we work one-on-one with the author to create the cover perfect for their book.” She also creates the “layout on books that require more options, such as books with numerous photos.” Ms. Underwood-Winters is “always trying to find new book projects.”

There are no hidden fees built into the author's cost of publishing and printing their book at Westview, however, the experienced staff at Published by Westview will provide additional services if requested. For instance, Published by Westview can provide an author with ghost writing, proof-reading and editing for an additional fee. Ms. Underwood-Winters stated, “We do as much or as a little as the author wants; we understand we are publishing their book and what we want is for them to be happy with the finished product.”

The cost for publishing a book through Published by Westview is $799. That includes layout, design, custom color cover (front and back), and much more. In that respect, they are unlike many companies that make you think you are getting everything for one low price until you start adding up all the extras that can increase their price to more than $2,000 - usually for the same services you get from Published by Westview for just $799.

Published by Westview is located in Bellevue, and any writer or author with a book, an idea, or a dream is encouraged to contact Mary Catharine Nelson at 615-646-6134. For more information on Published by Westview or to learn more about their authors, visit publishedbywestview.com or email Mary Catharine at mcn@publishedbywestview.com or Paula at publishwestview@aol.com.

"How Can You Mend This Broken Heart", Book Review

By Betsy Thorpe




"I jumped on the first step and waved a clumsy goodbye as the bus driver squished the folding doors between me and my childhood."

"The bus crested the hill and Mom, my younger brothers, and sisters and my childhood, disappeared below the hazy arch of blacktop. The summer of 1968 had just made the turn toward autumn and I was now a statistic in Uncle Sam's register."

So begins the story of Jeremy Schoff, a Vietnam War era, eighteen year old, Naval enlistee. How Can You Mend This Purple Heart, recalls the turbulent times and tragic moments of confusion and disorder experienced by United States military personnel during the final years of the conflict in Vietnam.

After completing boot camp at The Great Lakes Naval Training Center near Chicago and feeling lucky following his graduation with the 6th Naval radioman class of 1969 , Schoff learns how to "hurry up and wait" as he anticipates the launching of his first assignment, "a goodwill tour from Norfork Virginia to the British West Indies, over to the Ivory Coast, down around the Cape of Good Hope off South Africa, sail along the east coast of Africa and up through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean Sea. Eight months on board a destroyer escort ship. It was every sailors dream, especially with a war going on half way around the world".

Unfortunately for Jeremy Schoff a set of unusual circumstances occur before his ship deploys and he eventually finds himself in a hostile environment where he is ill-prepared for the battles he is expected to fight.

In this, his first novel Terry Gould tells a story that has haunted him for more than forty years. Gould, like Jeremy Schoff grew up in rural Missouri and joined the Navy in 1968. He wrote How Can You Mend This Purple Heart in memory of the valiant men he came to know and respect throughout his term of military service. He hopes his novel will inspire it's readers "to recognize and honor the veterans of all wars; but especially the veterans of the Vietnam War. For they truly deserve recognition, an unconditional recognition so long overdue, for their love of country, their commitment to duty and their unselfish sacrifices at a time when it was shamefully unappreciated".
Terry Gould now lives near Nashville with his wife Barb.

Published at the Nashville Tennessee publishing company, Published By Westview, How Can You Mend This Purple Heart, by Terry Gould is available for purchase at publishedbywestview.com

Archivist, Jay Richiuso Share Information On Tennessee State Library And Archives With The Bellevue Rotary Club

By Betsy Thorpe


Rotary President, Lisa Cummings With Jay Richiuso, Archivist, At Tennessee State Library And Archives

On April 8th, in a presentation to the Bellevue Rotary Club, local resident and State Archivist, Jay Richiuso related the history of the of Tennessee State Library and Archives. Richisuo also explained the careful process involved in preserving newspapers and historical documents and shared information on various collections held inside the archives.

When first established in 1854,The Tennessee State Library was located at Nashville's old Davidson County Courthouse. The library later moved to the State Capitol building. In 1953 the Tennessee State Library And Archives formally opened at it's present location at 403 Seventh Avenue North. Plans for the construction of a new building to house the Tennessee State Library And Archives are complete, however no date has been set for the ground breaking ceremony. According to Richiuso, the state's new archival repository will stand near the Bi-Centennial Mall in north Nashville.

The Tennessee State Library And Archives offers the public access to micro-filmed copies of the more than three hundred newspapers and periodicals currently published in Tennessee. Micro-film of the states historic publications are also available to the archive's visitors. The staff of the library's Preservation Services Department utilize a series of precautionary steps to the insure the historic preservation of Tennessee's newspapers and documents. During the micro-filming process publications and documents are collated, ironed, filmed and developed before they are duplicated. Three copy's are made of each roll of micro-film negatives and for security they are stored at three separate climate controlled locations. One Rotarian present at last weeks meeting asked Mr. Richiuso why the state continues to employ the complicated process of micro-filming since the technology of scanning images to a computer is more technologically advanced. "When stored in the proper climate and environment micro-film negatives will last at least three hundred years, and require only light and magnification to be viewed", Richiuso said. He also explained how access to computer scans rely on electricity and the availability of certain computer programs and how it is unknown what resources will be available in the future.

Materials held by the Tennessee State State Library And Archives include census records, county records, historic and current maps, the papers of Tennessee Governors, military records, and selected birth and death records. Serving the needs of a wide range of citizens, visitors to the archives include members of the Tennessee General Assembly, attorney's, educators and students, genealogists, journalists, historians, public officials and scholars.

The Bellevue Rotary Club meets at Shoney's on Highway 70S every Wednesday at 7:00 am. Rotarian, Arthur McKew who hopes to see the club's membership expand this year, invites anyone interested in learning more about the Bellevue Rotary and their civic service to attend one of the clubs weekly meetings.

Wanda Jackson Inducted Into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame (finally)

To Whom It May Concern:


This is to propose that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame finally nominates Wanda Jackson for induction. For heaven's sake, the whole thing risks ridicule and having the appearance of being a little boy's club unless it acknowledges the contribution of one of the first women of rock and roll.

It might be hard to admit but the musical influence of several male pioneers is somewhat obscure today. Even though their records will always be thrilling, their sound is not really heard in echo.

Look around today and you can hear lots of rocking girl singers who owe an unconscious debt to the mere idea of a woman like Wanda. She was standing up on stage with a guitar in her hands and making a sound that was as wild and raw as any rocker, man or woman, while other gals were still asking, "How much is that doggy in the window?"…

It is strange to find myself a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame while there seem still be a number of notable absentees. I'd like to be able to send the museum some old guitar that I played in '77, with a good heart and clear conscience. Right now I'd be embarrassed to see it on display in a glass case in Cleveland while Wanda is still rocking and still missing from the Hall…

Come on you guys. DO THE RIGHT THING…HELP INDUCT WANDA…

Yours through music,



Elvis Costello

April 13, 2005