Davidson County Republican Party Chair, Kathleen Starnes To Address Bellevue Republican Breakfast Club, September 5

I can't wait to work with you to advance our common goal of reviewing America's commitment to individual liberty. Together we will educate our neighbors, our friends, our family members and ultimately our community on the true objective of conservatism: the promise of prosperity through limited government, low taxes and a commitment to security.
Kathleen Starnes, Chair, Davidson County Republican Party

Saturday, September 5 at 8 AM, the Bellevue Republican Breakfast Club will hold their monthly meeting at the Shoney’s. Guest speaker, Kathleen Starnes, Chair of the Davidson County Republican Party will be sharing her ideas about the upcoming election cycle.

A time of Questions and Answers will follow her presentation.

The Bellevue Republican Breakfast Club meets at 8 Am on the first Saturday of every month.

Gains’ Made In Titans Loss

By Chris Lambos

After last week’s performance against the Dallas Cowboys, many Titans fans were left asking themselves “Where’s the Offense?” and more specifically “Where is the Running Game?”. Those questions were more intensely pondered by sportswriters in the local media. Some worried that this 2009 edition of the Titans ‘O’ had lost it’s mojo, incapable making another 13-3 run. Eight days later, some answers have come to light, but like any good gridiron soap opera, there will surely be more questions in next week’s episode of ‘All My Titans’.

On a windy and sometimes rainy night, the Tennessee Titans took the field of Cleveland Browns Stadium in search of mainly O’s but a few X’s as well. In hopes of rockin’ the rock n’ roll capital of the world, the Titans did get their groove early in the first half of play.

The suspect running game saw significant improvement from previous outings with the Titans offensive line controlling the line of scrimmage. Chris Johnson and LenDale White combined for 47 yards on 11 carries (4.3 yards per carry). Quentin Ganther also stepped up with 2 receptions out of the backfield for 40 yards and 2 rushed for 5 yards. Rookie Javon Ringer had a quiet evening with a 2-yard run.

Though Kenny Britt moved to 1st string WR with the Nate Washington injury earlier this week, it was veteran Justin Gage and rookie TE Jared Cook that found themselves in Kerry Collins’s sights. After a 3rd down sack ended Collins’ first drive of the evening, the Penn State product put together a 12-play 75 yard march that culminated in a 6-yard over-the-shoulder TD to Gage

The offensive line gave Collins the protection he needed to throw 11 of 14 for 102 yards 1 TD, 0 Int. before handing the reins to Vince Young in the 2nd Qtr.

No one has been under more scrutiny in the post-Pac Man era than VY, but the 4th year Texas legend gets a big ‘thumbs up’ from this rookie blogger. Yes, he made a few mistakes. He fumbled on a scramble just 1 yard from the end zone – one of 3 turnovers committed by the Titans. In the 3rd Qtr, Vince threw an off-balance pass deep in Titan territory that he wishes he could take back. That mistake resulted in 6 points for the Browns as LB Alex Hall trotted 11 yards for a quick TD. But give Vince Young credit. He stayed focus. He bounced back and rallied the Titans from a 20-7 deficit with a 3Qtr. 15 yard TD pass to reserve TE Matthew Mulligan. He also put the Titans in FG range for a 32 Yard Rob Bironas FG.

Last week, I predicted that Jeff Fisher would get back to basics with the Titans Defense. That work paid off. Kyle Vander Bosch and Jacob Ford along with a few other starters were able to keep pressure on the opposing QBs for the time they were on the field . The Browns ‘screen-happy’ offense made a few small gains against Titan starters but their 1st string offense stayed on the field well into the 3rd Qtr compiling yardage against all Titan reserves. This is one major reason why I’m not too worried about chalking this one up in the loss column.

Cleveland went on to add a third Phil Dawson FG to put away the Titans 23-17.

What did we learn from this game?

1) The Titans running game has a pulse

2) The offensive line is still in the upper echelon of the NFL.

3) Vince Young is making big strides and not with his legs.

4) Brady Quinn will most likely be the Browns starting QB in Week 1

5) Jamal Lewis will lose his job to James Davis

6) Mistakes cost the Titans 10 points – and a 3-1 preseason record.

President Bill Clinton Brings Jackson Day Crowd To Their Feet

Taylor Swift, In Concert Nashville, September 12

Taylor Swift
Saturday September 12, 2009 7:30 PM
Sommet Center
Nashville, TN

"Headlining my own tour is a dream come true! This way I can play more music every night than I ever have before. Having written my own songs, they are all stories in my head, and my goal for this tour is to bring those stories to life. My favorite thing when I go to a concert is having lots of changing things to look at, so I’ve been working really hard to make this show as multi-dimensional as possible. I want to be sure that everyone has the opportunity to come see my show, so we have affordable tickets available for every date we do this year.”

Taylor Swift

Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman Chip Forrester Gave Up His Jackson Day VIP Seat To Strengthen Party's Campaign Fund

Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman Chip Forrester Calls For A Moment Of Silence For Senator Ted Kennedy, August 29, 2009

On August 19, Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman Chip Forrester announced that three Jackson Day VIP seats belonging to Forrester, his wife Gabrielle and party Vice Chair, Elisa Parker would be auctioned to the public. Donating their seats to help strengthen the party's 2010 campaign fund, Chip Forrester stated that “Tennessee Democrats understand we must take back the state House, pick up more seats in the state Senate and win the governor’s seat in 2010. This is a way to advance that cause.”

By giving up their opportunity to dine with Vice President Al Gore, Governor Phil Bredesen, Governor Ned Ray McWherter, Congressman Harold Ford Jr.and Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, the party leaders helped raise more than $10,000 for the Tennessee Democratic Party's 2010 campaign fund.

Weekly Address By President Barack Obama

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29TH, 2009 AT 12:13 AM
Weekly Address: Lessons and Renewal Out of the Gulf Coast

The President discusses the steps being taken to finish the job of recovery from Hurricane Katrina as the fourth anniversary approaches. He points to local citizens working hard alongside responsible government to make real progress in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, and pledges that the lessons of Katrina will not be forgotten.



Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
Saturday, August 29, 2009


This weekend marks the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina’s devastation of the Gulf Coast. As we remember all that was lost, we must take stock of the work being done on recovery, while preparing for future disasters. And that is what I want to speak with you about today.

None of us can forget how we felt when those winds battered the shore, the floodwaters began to rise, and Americans were stranded on rooftops and in stadiums. Over a thousand people would lose their lives. Over a million people were displaced. Whole neighborhoods of a great American city were left in ruins. Communities across the Gulf Coast were forever changed. And many Americans questioned whether government could fulfill its responsibility to respond in a crisis, or contribute to a recovery that covered parts of four states.

Since taking office in January, my Administration has focused on helping citizens finish the work of rebuilding their lives and communities, while taking steps to prevent similar catastrophes going forward. Our approach is simple: government must keep its responsibility to the people, so that Americans have the opportunity to take responsibility for their future.

That is the work that we are doing. To date, eleven members of my Cabinet have visited the Gulf Coast, and I’m looking forward to going to New Orleans later this year. To complete a complex recovery that addresses nearly every sector of society, we have prioritized coordination among different federal agencies, and with state and local governments. No more turf wars – all of us need to move forward together, because there is much more work to be done.

I have also made it clear that we will not tolerate red tape that stands in the way of progress, or the waste that can drive up the bill. Government must be a partner – not an opponent – in getting things done. That is why we have put in place innovative review and dispute resolution programs to expedite recovery efforts, and have freed up hundreds of millions of dollars of federal assistance that had not been distributed. This is allowing us to move forward with stalled projects across the Gulf Coast – building and improving schools; investing in public health and safety; and repairing broken roads, bridges and homes. And this effort has been dramatically amplified by the Recovery Act, which has put thousands of Gulf Coast residents to work.

As we complete this effort, we see countless stories of citizens holding up their end of the bargain. In New Orleans, hundreds of kids just started the school year at Langston Hughes elementary, the first school built from scratch since Katrina. The St. Bernard Project has drawn together volunteers to rebuild hundreds of homes, where people can live with dignity and security. To cite just one hopeful indicator, New Orleans is the fastest growing city in America, as many who had been displaced are now coming home.

As we rebuild and recover, we must also learn the lessons of Katrina, so that our nation is more protected and resilient in the face of disaster. That means continuing to rebuild hundreds of miles of levees and floodwalls around New Orleans, and working to strengthen the wetlands and barrier islands that are the Gulf Coast’s first line of defense. In Washington, that means a focus on competence and accountability – and I’m proud that my FEMA Administrator has 25 years of experience in disaster management in Florida, a state that has known its share of hurricanes. And across the country, that means improving coordination among different agencies, modernizing our emergency communications, and helping families plan for a crisis.

On this anniversary, we are focused on the threat from hurricanes. But we must also be prepared for a broad range of dangers – from wildfires and earthquakes, to terrorist attacks and pandemic disease. In particular, my Administration is working aggressively with state and local governments – and with partners around the world – to prepare for the risk posed by the H1N1 virus. To learn more about the simple steps that you can take to keep you and your family safe from all of these dangers, please visit www.ready.gov.

So on this day, we commemorate a tragedy that befell our people. But we also remember that with every tragedy comes the chance of renewal. It is a quintessentially American notion – that adversity can give birth to hope, and that the lessons of the past hold the key to a better future. From the streets of New Orleans to the Mississippi Coast, folks are beginning the next chapter in their American stories. And together, we can ensure that the legacy of a terrible storm is a country that is safer and more prepared for the challenges that may come. Thank you.

Nashville Guitarist Greg V, Quoted By CNN And Huffington Post

Nashville Guitarist And Composer, Greg V

On August 5, with election results still in dispute, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was sworn in for his second term as the sixth president of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Three candidates, including Mir-Hossein Mousavi challenged incumbent Ahmadinejad in the election held on June 12. On June 13 with only two thirds of the votes counted it was announced that Ahmadinejad had won the election. Mousavi urged his supporters to fight the decision without committing acts of violence. Hundreds of thousands of protesters soon arrived in Tehran to denounce President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's claim to victory in the disputed election. Tragically, in the days that followed hundreds of protesters were killed in the ensuing violence as Iranian security forces fired upon the peaceful civilian demonstrators.

On June 20th in Nashville, a local guitarist recieved a video post showing a young woman gunned down in the streets of Tehran. "I saw her death, moments after it was posted on Twitter and knew this was a defining moment for us all." Captured on video and simultaneously witnessed around the globe, images of the unknown Iranian woman captivated and sorrowed a watching world. Personifying the nation's revolutionary movement, she was soon identified through illegal internet posts streaming out of Tehran. She was Neda Agha-Soltan, a 26 year old university student who lived in the capitol city. As innumerable messages of condolence, grief and outrage were posted on Twitter, it was the message expressing sadness and hope, attributed to a Nashville guitar player, that was quoted by CNN, The Huffington Post and numerous other news sources.

"RIP NEDA, The World cries seeing your last breath, you didn’t die in vain. We remember you."

In July, Tennessee investigative reporter, Sharon Cobb discovered that Greg Vorobiov was the Nashville guitarist who helped promote the name of the woman whose face is now the symbol of revolution and opposition in Iran.

A self proclaimed champion of the underdog, Vorobiov was following the June events occurring in Iran with interest, hoping that justice would prevail. In order to mentally process and emotionally assimilate the tragedy he witnessed on June 20th, Greg Vorobiov turned to his music. "After seeing her death, I realized I must go deeper within to help me process the pain and suffering I was seeing and feeling. My requiem Song For Neda is the result of trying to quell the visceral, vortex of emotions I felt and I’m grateful for music in my life for the needed balance and solace in these troubled times. Expressing an understanding of the universal and timeless nature of Neda's unfortunate story Vorobiov said "In a different place and time it could have easily been you or I, our brother or sister but that day it was Neda." With Mahmoud Ahmadinejad installed into office, it seems that Neda and the other slain demonstrators died in vain, but Greg Vorobiov is confident that Neda whose name means voice, calling or divine message in Persian will remain a global symbol of freedom and that her voice will never be silenced.

Greg Vorobiov lives in Bellevue with his wife Kathy, the East Coast Area Brand Manager for the Guess Jeans clothing line. Known professionally as Greg V, Greg Vorobiov is an accomplished guitarist and composer who has worked with numerous national acts including Wynonna, Hal Ketchum, Lonestar, John Rich and Keith Urban.

Go here to view the interview with Greg V, conducted by reporter and film maker, Sharon Cobb.

Enjoy You Weekend, Visit Your Local Park

FREE CONCERT TONIGHT AT SEVIER PARK
Eric Wilson and Empty Hearts
6:00 PM




On first listen, the title track from Eric Wilson’s debut EP, Quarterfuse (out Oct 7,) is a civil-war story. Rather, Wilson uses the setting to portray how chaos and fear in life can push us forward. “More smoke I see/ the less bullets I see fly back at me. Cannon fire, over me/oh the sound is loud, but it’s sweet.” The deliberate and building force of guitars underscore the song’s dramatic story. “The character in the song is on the brink of destruction on all fronts really, yet he finds hope from the strength of the cannon fire behind him,” explains Wilson. “The point of ‘Quarterfuse’ is to take the idea of cannon fire that obviously is a very dreadful sound, and seeing it as a sign of strength and hope.” The song kicks off an introduction to Wilson, a vivid storyteller of the civil war, coal, cannons and his home – and of longing and love. With his band “Empty Hearts,” songs shift from acoustic to rock in a Petty-esque fashion, seasoned with a bit of twang from the steel guitar. Wilson and band had been drawing crowds in the southeast for a couple of years before The Carnival Music Group heard the buzz. In addition to signing him as a writer with the publishing company, Carnival is releasing the EP from previously recorded material. Wilson grew up in rural environs compared to his new Nashville home, and conveys the age-old instinct that a different future is possible with “The Coal Runs Through my Veins.” Perhaps an instinct that began to gel when his grandfather gave him a guitar at age 13. Wilson says, “I started writing and playing at the same time. I never played unless I was writing.” The love songs are equally insightful. “The One I’ll Always Love,” is not as simple as the title conveys. Instead, it’s a sad lament on a blown chance – “You’re the one I thought I’d always love/ The one I thought I knew/ You’re the one I’ll never quite give up/ You’re the one I’ll never get to love.” The most important love song on the album is “Kentucky, You’re My Lover.” “It’s disguised as a period piece but it is somewhat autobiographical. It is more or less juxtaposes where I grew up verses where I am now, and being caught in between that,” says Wilson. “It personifies Kentucky and Tennessee as lovers sort of competing over the affection of the character. As we grow we move on to pursue the passions of our heart, which is not a common thing where I am from. It’s seems like everyone just sticks around and tries to survive.”





Sevier Park is located in Nashville at 3000 Granny White Pike

FEEL GOOD FRIDAY

Celebrating the life and achievements of Senator Edward Moore Kennedy. May he rest in peace.

Opry Goes Pink

Carrie Underwood at the Grand Ole Opry October 2




The Grand Ole Opry is joining the fight against breast cancer by "going pink" during two Opry performances Friday, October 2. Carrie Underwood will take the stage to "flip the switch," turning the Opry's signature barn pink in support of the groups Women Rock for the Cure and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The shows will also include performances from Underwood, Terri Clark, and other artists to be announced, as well as special activities recognizing breast cancer survivors and the continuing fight against the disease.

Titans to Host Stadium Drive Sept. 3 Benefiting YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter

"The Tennessee Titans are proud to be a philanthropic leader in the community and it's our goal to make a difference in the lives of our fans. We have several special events, programs and player appearances that we make throughout the year that enrich the lives of others."



In July the Tennessee Titans invited youth from four local non-profit organizations to participate in the Gatorade Junior Training Camp. The camp's focus was to promote physical fitness and the proper nutrition in order to lead a healthy lifestyle. The youth participated in various football related activities at the Titans Practice Facility, Baptist Sports Park.

Titans to Host Stadium Drive Sept. 3 Benefiting YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter

The Tennessee Titans will again team up with the Nashville YWCA Weaver Domestic Violence Shelter to host a stadium drive for the “YWCA Women’s Underwear Drive” at LP Field during their final preseason game on Thursday, September 3 against Green Bay.

The YWCA Weaver Domestic Violence Shelter needs new women’s undergarments for their shelter residents. Titans fans attending the game are asked to bring women’s undergarments that include:

• NEW Women’s Underwear, Bras and Socks (all sizes)

The collection of women’s underwear, bras and socks will take place from 5 p.m. until the end of the first quarter. The YWCA will have volunteers stationed at the seven charity drop sites around LP Field to collect donations.

This is the second drive the Titans have hosted for the YWCA. In 2008, Titans fans collected undergarments for children to meet the needs of the youth at the shelter. This season, the need is women’s undergarments for residents.

In the 2009, the YWCA provided shelter, safety and counseling to 450 women and children. The YWCA helps families leave abusive households and start new lives. The YWCA exists to educate, encourage and break down those barriers that perpetuate racism, violence and hopelessness.

The Tennessee Titans have developed a relationship with the YWCA over the last several years through various events, appearances and efforts by the Titans Women’s Association. Titans players and wives have held various events to benefit the YWCA. In addition, the Titans Women’s Association hosted the women and children from the YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter for a special dinner event.

This drive will mark the second stadium drive by the Titans during the 2009 season. Titans fans have continually shown why they are the best in the NFL by participating in donation drives to help fellow Tennesseans who are less fortunate.

For more information about the YWCA, or if you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, call please the YWCA at 615-242-1199 or 1-800-334-4628.

EXIT 196

By Betsy Thorpe


"Each day an elephant remains in the confined space provided by zoos and circuses their health is compromised; causing unrelieved suffering and premature death."
Carol Buckley President and Co-Founder
The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee


Ronnie and her devoted companion Debbie arrived at the Elephant Sanctuary on February 7, 2006 becoming the twentieth and twenty first residents of The Elephant Sanctuary. They were the fifth and sixth of eight circus elephants to arrive in the "Caravan To Freedom" rescue.

Photo, used with permission, The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee

Dozens of travelers leave I-40 at Exit 196 everyday, some to visit friends and family, others for fuel and or refreshment. They all have a story to tell and every week we will share a tale or two that we heard at Exit 196.

Last week two enthusiastic animal rights activists from Madison Wisconsin, traveling west on I-40 stopped at Exit 196 to ask for directions to the Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald. We told them to continue west to Exit 172 and to then follow the Natchez Trace for about forty miles. We explained that the Trace is a rustic and ancient trail first used by animals and native people that connected southern portions of the Mississippi River, through Alabama, to central Tennessee. Sections of the Old Trace ran through the heart of Choctaw and Chickasaw country and through a series of mounds built by people over a period of 2000 years. In addition to the Mound Builders,and Choctaw, and Chickasaw people, preachers, bandits, slaves, soldiers, settlers, and even Meriwether Lewis made their mark on the historic trail.

Not wanting to disappoint our young guests we neglected to tell them that although the Sanctuary is currently constructing an Education Gallery in downtown Hohenwald, the Sanctuary is not open to the public. The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee was developed specifically to provide a place for traumatized elephants to recover from the debilitating experience of captivity in both zoos and circuses, and to educate the public about the crisis facing elephants in captivity and in the wild. Since 1995, twenty-four elephants have found sanctuary in Tennessee, where they will peacefully and privately live out their lives in freedom as they roam the natural habitat of the Sanctuary.

We hope our happy travelers enjoyed their road trip and that they were not too disappointed when they realized they would not be allowed entrance into the Sanctuary. We admire their dedication to animal rights and we wish them well. Perhaps in the future they will remember us and return to Exit 196.

Go here to find out how you can help support the Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee.

John Furgess Delivers President Obama's Health Care Promise To Local Veterans

By Betsy Thorpe


Former VFW National Commander John Furgess With The Bellevue United Methodist Veteran's Group

"Veteran's should join any veteran organization to which they are eligible, be it the VFW, DAV, The American Legion or any other group. I encourage veterans to seek out eligible groups to join."
John Furgess

Last week after attending the 110th VFW National Convention in Phoenix Arizona, John Furgess, former VFW National Commander and long time member of West Nashville's VFW Post 1970, shared a message from President Obama with the Bellevue United Methodist's veteran's group.

Addressing thousands of delegates on August 17th, President Obama stated, "to all those who have served America—our forces, your families, our veterans—you have done your duty. You have fulfilled your responsibilities. And now a grateful nation must fulfill ours. And that is what I want to talk about today."

The President went on to say "Whether you left the service in 2009 or 1949, we will fulfill our responsibility to deliver the benefits and care that you earned. That’s why I’ve pledged to build nothing less than a 21st-century VA. And I picked a lifelong soldier and a wounded warrior from Vietnam to lead this fight—General Rick Shinseki." Obama also informed the delegates that funding for veteran's health care would be dramatically increased and that the unique medical needs of women veteran's would be met. He also said that access to VA health care will be restored to the half-million Priority 8 veterans who in recent years lost their VA eligibility for non service related ailments. Promising that veteran's health benefits will not diminish the President said "I look forward to signing legislation on advanced appropriations for the VA so that the medical care you need is never held up by budget delays."

In closing the President acknowledged the service of war time veterans and promised that America will always fulfill its responsibilities to the men and women who answered the nation's call to duty to serve during times of conflict.

First Show In Nashville's New Free Concert Series, "Live On The Green" September 3

The Nashville Public Square is the award-winning result of an intensive renovation to the City of Nashville's Metro Courthouse complex, resulting in its 5 level subterranean parking garage and rooftop public plaza. Nashville Public Square won the 2007 Green Roofs for Healthy Cities Award of Excellence in the Intensive Institutional category. The open air greenroof captures fresh rainwater in a 57,000-gallon, below-grade tank - the rainwater is then filtered and recycled to irrigate the plants in the public park.

Showcasing a lineup that’s as diverse as Music City’s own array of musical talent, Live On The Green, Nashville’s new free, outdoor concert series will start next week on Septmeber 3rd. Taking place on the Metro Courthouse's Public Square, Mayor Karl Dean will host the fall concert series over six consecutive Thursday nights. “This is a chance for us to invite the entire city out to enjoy our Public Square – the only green roof on a municipal building in Nashville – and enjoy the musical talent for which our city is known,” Dean said.

The show on Sept. 3 will include performances by rock bands Toadies and American Bang, and Ten Out Of Ten, a unique ensemble of Nashville-based emerging artists. On Sept. 10, the night will be filled with funk, rock, R&B and costumes with Here Come the Mummies, Space Capone and the music variety show H-Beam.

Live On the Green will also showcase environmental stewardship with a number of green features, including on-site recycling, a free bike check, and merchandise made from recyclable and organic materials. A team be on hand to will be organize community events, such as tree plantings and clean-ups, to offset the carbon footprint for the concert series in effort to make it a carbon-neutral event.

Remembering Senator Edward Kennedy 1932-2009

"FOR ALL THOSE WHOSE CARES HAVE BEEN OUR CONCERN, THE WORK GOES ON, THE CAUSE ENDURES, THE HOPE STILL LIVES AND THE DREAM NEVER DIES"
Senator Edward Kennedy
1980





"Edward M. Kennedy – the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply – died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port. We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him."
Kennedy Family


"He was not only one of the greatest senators of our time, but one of the most accomplished Americans ever to serve our democracy."
President Obama


"Today we lost a truly remarkable man," Biden added. "To paraphrase Shakespeare, I don't think we shall ever see his like again. I think the legacy he left was not just with the landmark legislation he passed but in how he helped people look at themselves and look at one another."
Vice President Joseph Biden

"The Kennedy family and the Senate family have together lost our patriarch. My thoughts, and those of the entire United States Senate, are with Vicki, Senator Kennedy’s children, his many nieces and nephews, and his entire family. It was the thrill of my lifetime to work with Ted Kennedy. He was a friend, the model of public service and an American icon.

As we mourn his loss, we rededicate ourselves to the causes for which he so dutifully dedicated his life. Senator Kennedy’s legacy stands with the greatest, the most devoted, the most patriotic men and women to ever serve in these halls. Because of Ted Kennedy, more young children could afford to become healthy. More young adults could afford to become students. More of our oldest citizens and our poorest citizens could get the care they need to live longer, fuller lives. More minorities, women and immigrants could realize the rights our founding documents promised them. And more Americans could be proud of their country.

Ted Kennedy’s America was one in which all could pursue justice, enjoy equality and know freedom. Ted Kennedy’s life was driven by his love of a family that loved him, and his belief in a country that believed in him. Ted Kennedy’s dream was the one for which the founding fathers fought and for which his brothers sought to realize."
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid

"Today, with the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, the American people have lost a great patriot, and the Kennedy family has lost a beloved patriarch. Over a lifetime of leadership, Senator Kennedy’s statesmanship and political prowess produced a wealth of accomplishment that has improved opportunity for every American.

Senator Kennedy had a grand vision for America, and an unparalleled ability to effect change. Rooted in his deep patriotism, his abiding faith, and his deep concern for the least among us, no one has done more than Senator Kennedy to educate our children, care for our seniors, and ensure equality for all Americans.

Ted Kennedy’s dream of quality health care for all Americans will be made real this year because of his leadership and his inspiration.

Sadly, Senator Kennedy left us exactly one year after he inspired the nation with his speech of optimism, vitality, and courage at the Convention in Denver.

On behalf of all Members of Congress, and personally on behalf of my family, today and in the days ahead, our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kennedy family, especially with Senator Kennedy’s devoted wife Vicki, and with Kara, Teddy Jr., and our colleague Patrick, who made their father so proud. I hope it is a comfort to them that our nation and the world mourn their loss and are praying for them at this sad time."
Speaker, Nancy Pelosi

"I was terribly saddened to hear of the death of Ted Kennedy tonight. Given our political differences, people are sometimes surprised by how close Ronnie and I have been to the Kennedy family. But Ronnie and Ted could always find common ground, and they had great respect for one another. In recent years, Ted and I found our common ground in stem cell research, and I considered him an ally and a dear friend. I will miss him."
Nancy Reagan

"Today America lost a great elder statesman, a committed public servant, and leader of the Senate. And today I lost a treasured friend. Ted Kennedy was an iconic, larger than life United States senator whose influence cannot be overstated. Many have come before, and many will come after, but Ted Kennedy's name will always be remembered as someone who lived and breathed the United States Senate and the work completed within its chamber."
Senator Orrin Hatch

"Teddy In His Own Words" to air tonight on CNN

Senator Edward M Kennedy authored more than 2,500 bills throughout his career in the United States Senate. Of those bills, several hundred became public law,making a significant difference in the quality of life for the American people.


The HBO documentary, "TEDDY IN HIS OWN WORDS", will air tonight on CNN at 7pm Central Time

No more yes. It's either HELL YEAH! or no.

By Derek Sivers

Derek Sivers is best known as the founder of CD Baby. A professional musician, Derek started CD Baby by accident in 1998 when he was selling his own CD on his website, and friends asked if he could sell theirs, too. CD Baby was the largest seller of independent music on the web, with over $100M in sales for over 150,000 musician clients. After he won the 2003 World Technology Award, Esquire Magazine's annual “Best and Brightest“ cover story said, “Derek Sivers is changing the way music is bought and sold... one of the last music-business folk heroes.” In 2008, Derek sold CD Baby to focus on his new ventures to benefit musician. His current projects and writings are all at sivers.org.


No more yes. It's either HELL YEAH! or no.

Those of you who often over-commit or feel too scattered may appreciate a new philosophy I'm trying:

If I'm not saying “HELL YEAH!” about something, then say no.

Meaning: When deciding whether to commit to something, if I feel anything less than, “Wow! That would be amazing! Absolutely! Hell yeah!” - then my answer is no.

When you say no to most things, you leave room in your life to really throw yourself completely into that rare thing that makes you say “HELL YEAH!”

We're all busy. We've all taken on too much. Saying yes to less is the way out.

Examples:
I was hiring someone for a long-term project. There were many candidates. I compared pros-and-cons. Nobody blew me away, but I felt I had to choose one of them. Instead, I said no to all, and began the search again in a different way. That turned up someone absolutely amazing who is ideal and I'm psyched to be working with.

I was supposed to go to three music conferences in the next few months. They were spread out around the world and would have taken many expensive days in planes and hotels to be there. I had said yes to all of them out of habit or obligation. But I realized I wasn't feeling “HELL YEAH!” about them, so I cancelled all three. They're a little disappointed but I was able to clear off 12 days in my calendar! 12 days!! Do you know how much I can do with 12 free days? Maybe I could get Muckwork launched! Now that is a “HELL YEAH!”

I was deciding where to live. I had heard good things about Vancouver and Sydney. I was interested in Hong Kong and Florianópolis. But when I got to New York City I felt such an instant “HELL YEAH!” that I stayed.

9, 10 or 1
The surprisingly great book “Personal Development for Smart People” asks you to think about the different areas of your life (career, relationships, spiritual, health, etc.) - and rate your satisfaction in each area from 1 to 10.

But after doing that, the next suggestion impressed me: it said to go through every area you rated a 5, 6, 7, or 8 - and replace it with a 1! That we should never settle for “it's not so bad” - and instead face up to what you really want.

In other words: No more “yes”. It's either “HELL YEAH!” or “no”.

The Final Destination (In 3D) Opens At Bellevue's Regal Cinema, Friday, August 28

THE FINAL DESINTATION (3D)
The fourth installment in "The Final Destination" series of horror films
Opens in Nashville
And at the Regal Cinema in Bellevue
On Friday, August 28

After a teen's premonition of a deadly race-car crash helps saves the lives of his peers, Death sets out to collect those who evaded their end.

The Regal Cinema in Bellevue is located at 7741 Highway 70 S. For movies playing and showtimes call 615 646-3111

Titans Can't Spoil Inaugural Game

Justin Gage's 17-yard touchdown reception from Kerry Collins gave the Titans a 10-7 lead in the second quarter.

By Chris Lambos

If you happened to miss this game, you did not miss much - unless of course you are a Cowboys fan.

Dallas faithful got their first glimpse of the franchise's new $1.5 Billion abode in Arlington, TX. as the Dallas Cowboys handed the Tennessee Titans a 30-10 loss - their first of the preseason.

The Titans never could get their running game in gear in the first half with the Chris Johnson/LenDale White tandem. Both combined for a dismal 7 yards on 4 carries - shades of last week's performance against Tampa Bay.

Collins seemed to improve a bit from 7 days ago completing 8 of 11 for 55 yards and a TD. But enduring two '3 and outs' in the first three possessions left some Titans fans fumbling for their TV Guides.

The defense did not help matters, giving up 460 yards of Cowboys Stadium real estate. There were many missed tackles and a few interference calls that helped set up at least 2 Dallas scores that I counted.

Before the Titans starters (both offense and defense) had left the field, the game was surprisingly close at 14-7. Even after three quarters, the score was only 14-10. But Dallas RB Felix Jones and undrafted rookie Kevin Ogletree helped Dallas add 16 points in the final quarter.

The only negative note of the night for the Cowboys (other than a few unsportsmanlike calls) is that Rookie OLB Brandon Williams is out for the year with a torn ACL he sustained in the second half of the game. Williams was drafted in hopes of filling the shoes of departed 12-year veteran Greg Ellis. Another LB went down for the Dallas leaving the team thin at that position.

Vince Young missed a wide open Kenny Britt that would have equaled six points, capping off a lackluster 3 or 9 for 33 yards (1 int.) perfromance. Third stringer Patrick Ramsey was tackled for a Safety and fared about as bad as Young statistically - completing 3 or 10 for 52 yards.

So what can we take from this preseason game?
1) Dallas will most likely end up in the NFC Championship game.
2) Jeff Fisher will be going back over tackling fundamentals with his defense this week in practice.
3) RB Chris Henry will not be around much longer as Michigan State Rookie Javon Ringer garners more playing time behind Johnson and White.
4) Ringer will undoubtedly play a major role in the return game this season.

On a scale from 0 to 10, I give the Titans a 5 in Arlington.

TITANS PLAY OF THE GAME: Punter A. J. Trapasso hits one of the new 60-yard long state-of-the-art High Definition video minitors on a 3rd Qtr, punt.




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How do you answer this question?

"Grandma, how did God first make butterflies and strawberries?"

REMEMBERING AUGUST 22, 1972

Weekly Address By President Barack Obama, August 22, 2009

Myths and Morality in Health Insurance Reform

President Obama debunks the myths around health insurance reform, and discusses the public option proposal in which many of them are rooted -- but he focuses his address on the stark moral and historical turning point at which we find ourselves: "This is our chance to march forward. I cannot promise you that the reforms we seek will be perfect or make a difference overnight. But I can promise you this: if we pass health insurance reform, we will look back many years from now and say, this was the moment we summoned what’s best in each of us to make life better for all of us. This was the moment we built a health care system worthy of the nation and the people we love. This was the moment we earned our place alongside the greatest generations. And that is what our generation of Americans is called to do right now."




WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Debunks "Phony Claims" about Health Reform; Emphasizes Consumer Protections.

WASHINGTON – In his weekly address, President Obama set the record straight on some of the most pervasive myths about health insurance reform. He addressed a range of "outrageous myths" including that illegal immigrants will be covered, that abortions will be funded by taxpayer dollars, that so-called "death panels" will be formed to decide who receives treatment, and that reform will lead to a government takeover of health care. In addition, the President reiterated that a public option would be just that – an option, not a requirement, for consumers - and would help introduce choice and competition to the health care market, while reminding American’s that it is only one component of health reform. The proposed reforms will also provide Americans unprecedented security and stability by prohibiting insurance companies from refusing or dropping coverage due to medical history, capping out-of-pocket expenses, and banning.

Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
Saturday, August 22nd, 2009

Each and every day in this country, Americans are grappling with health care premiums that are growing three times the rate of wages and insurance company policies that limit coverage and raise out-of-pocket costs. Thousands are losing their insurance coverage each day.

Without real reform, the burdens on America’s families and businesses will continue to multiply. We’ve had a vigorous debate about health insurance reform, and rightly so. This is an issue of vital concern to every American, and I’m glad that so many are engaged.

But it also should be an honest debate, not one dominated by willful misrepresentations and outright distortions, spread by the very folks who would benefit the most by keeping things exactly as they are.

So today, I want to spend a few minutes debunking some of the more outrageous myths circulating on the internet, on cable TV, and repeated at some town halls across this country.

Let’s start with the false claim that illegal immigrants will get health insurance under reform. That’s not true. Illegal immigrants would not be covered. That idea has never even been on the table. Some are also saying that coverage for abortions would be mandated under reform. Also false. When it comes to the current ban on using tax dollars for abortions, nothing will change under reform. And as every credible person who has looked into it has said, there are no so-called "death panels" – an offensive notion to me and to the American people. These are phony claims meant to divide us.

And we’ve all heard the charge that reform will somehow bring about a government takeover of health care. I know that sounds scary to many folks. It sounds scary to me, too. But here’s the thing: it’s not true. I no sooner want government to get between you and your doctor than I want insurance companies to make arbitrary decisions about what medical care is best for you, as they do today. As I’ve said from the beginning, under the reform we seek, if you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor. If you like your private health insurance plan, you can keep your plan. Period.

Now, the source of a lot of these fears about government-run health care is confusion over what’s called the public option. This is one idea among many to provide more competition and choice, especially in the many places around the country where just one insurer thoroughly dominates the marketplace. This alternative would have to operate as any other insurer, on the basis of the premiums it collects. And let me repeat – it would be just an option; those who prefer their private insurer would be under no obligation to shift to a public plan.

The insurance companies and their allies don’t like this idea, or any that would promote greater competition. I get that. And I expect there will be a lot of discussion about it when Congress returns.

But this one aspect of the health care debate shouldn’t overshadow the other important steps we can and must take to reduce the increasing burdens families and businesses face.

So let me stress them again: If you don’t have insurance, you will finally have access to quality coverage you can afford. If you do have coverage, you will benefit from more security and more stability when it comes to your insurance. If you move, lose your job, or change jobs, you will not have to worry about losing health coverage. And we will set up tough consumer protections that will hold insurance companies accountable and stop them from exploiting you with unfair practices.

We’ll prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage because of a person’s medical history. They will not be able to drop your coverage if you get sick. They will not be able to water down your coverage when you need it most. They will no longer be able to place some arbitrary cap on the amount of coverage you can receive in a given year or a lifetime. We’ll place a limit on how much you can be charged for out-of-pocket expenses, because no one in America should go broke because they get sick.


And we will require insurance companies to cover routine checkups and preventive care, like mammograms and colonoscopies. There’s no reason we shouldn’t be catching diseases like breast cancer and colon cancer on the front end. That makes sense, it saves lives, and it will also save money over the long-run. Taken together, the reforms we’re seeking will help bring down skyrocketing costs, which will mean real savings for families, businesses, and government.

We know what a failure to act would bring: More of the same. More of the same exploding costs. More of the same diminished coverage. If we fail to act, the crisis will grow. More families will go without coverage. More businesses will be forced to drop or water down their plans.

So we can push off the day of reckoning and fail to deal with the flaws in the system, just as Washington has done, year after year, decade after decade. Or we can take steps that will provide every American family and business a measure of security and stability they lack today.

It has never been easy, moving this nation forward. There are always those who oppose it, and those who use fear to block change. But what has always distinguished America is that when all the arguments have been heard, and all the concerns have been voiced, and the time comes to do what must be done, we rise above our differences, grasp each others’ hands, and march forward as one nation and one people, some of us Democrats, some of us Republicans, all of us Americans.

This is our chance to march forward. I cannot promise you that the reforms we seek will be perfect or make a difference overnight. But I can promise you this: if we pass health insurance reform, we will look back many years from now and say, this was the moment we summoned what’s best in each of us to make life better for all of us. This was the moment when we built a health care system worthy of the nation and the people we love. This was the moment we earned our place alongside the greatest generations. And that is what our generation of Americans is called to do right now.

EXIT 196

Dozens of travelers leave I-40 at Exit 196 everyday, some to visit friends and family, others for fuel and or refreshment. They all have a story to tell and every week we will share a tale or two that we heard at Exit 196.

Every summer in mid- August, thousands of fans from around the world gather in Memphis to remember and celebrate the life and music of Elvis Presley during the city's annual event, Elvis Week.

Last week after making their pilgrimage to Memphis, many homeward bound fans heading east on I-40 took advantage of the fuel stations, facilities and restaurants available to weary road travelers at Exit 196.

Elvis Week 2009 (August 8-16) included concerts, dances, sporting events and various charitable fund-raisers. This year to mark the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ return to the Las Vegas stage , Elvis Week also featured a concert that reunited cast members from Elvis’ 1969 Las Vegas shows. Another special event this year, "Conversations on Elvis – The King’s Friends Share Their Stories" gave fans the opportunity to hear first hand accounts from some of the talented musicians and pickers who played on the 1969 American Studio hit making session that produced ,some of Elvis' most memorable tunes( such as, "In The Ghetto," Suspicious Minds” and “Kentucky Rain ) Members of the studio band known as the Memphis Boys shared their memories of working with Elvis during his landmark recording session.

However, it was Graceland's annual Candlelight Vigil, that provided the week's most touching and memorable moments. On August 15th thousands of fans waited all day to enter Graceland. The vigil that started at dusk lasted throughout the night. All the attendees at the memorial service were given the opportunity to pay their respects to Elvis and to visit his grave. Torch bearing fans, carrying candles lit from the eternal flame that burns at his grave created a vast sea of light, that according to one torch bearer "illuminated the Memphis night all the way to heaven."

After departing Memphis, a group that included four generations of Elvis fans stopped at Exit 196 Tuesday afternoon. Catherine, a "fifty-something" physical education teacher from Portland Maine said her mother introduced her to the music of Elvis when she was a very young girl, "My mom is from the Elvis generation, she really loved him from the beginning, she took me to see all of his movies, he was so cute and handsome, how could you not love him? I listened to my Elvis records with my daughter before she even started school and now her second grader knows most of his songs by heart. Ellie, is six and this year she sang "Hound Dog" at the Karaoke Sock-Hop. She was wearing a poodle skirt, she is a true Elvis fan. Our family belongs to the global Elvis family and we try to come to Memphis every year, for Elvis Week, like other people go to their family reunions."

All of us at Exit 196 enjoyed our short visit with this family from Maine and we hope that when they return to Memphis next year, they will take time to stop and see us again so we can swap some more stories about Elvis.

Willa Young Lives

Willa Young has devoted her life to her partner and to further equality for all GLBT. She has worked with city government, Ohio State University and other organizations in the name of equal rights for all.


Video Submitted By Christopher Ludlow (former Nashvillian) and his partner and the film's editor, Jeffery Thomas




Willa Young LIVES UNITED: 2009 Stonewall Columbus Pride Parade

Walk United. Love United. LIVE UNITED.

Willa Young, Associate Director, Student Life Learner Initiatives at The Ohio State University has worked for Ohio State since 1991 in several positions within the Office of Student Affairs and holds a graduate degree in political science from Ohio State.

She is on the Diversity & Inclusion Committee and Pride Leadership Selection Committee at United Way of Central Ohio; the Board of Trustees of BRAVO (Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization - Statewide GLBT Anti-Violence Agency); Leadership Columbus, 2009 Cohort, Columbus Chamber of Commerce; The Leading Edge, The Ohio State University; LGBT Professional Network and a member of the Human Rights Campaign (to name a few).

Her personality, pride, dedication and passion continues to inspire people to create change in their lives and communities and she steals the show at the 2009 Stonewall Columbus Pride Parade.

Walk United. Love United. LIVE UNITED.
Willa Young embodies these words.

2009-2010 Broadway Season , Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPCAC)

Wicked, Nashville, September 2-20, 2009





"The whole premise of Wicked is that you don't know what really happened in Oz."
Winnie Holzman
Author of the book "Wicked"


BROADWAY SERIES AT TPAC, 2009-2010 SEASON SCHEDULE

“The season covers a multitude of themes central to American life – both now and historically. We choose productions that we believe are inspiring, creative, engaging and fun-loving."Kathleen O’Brien,
President and CEO, Tennessee Performing Arts Center
Nashville Tennessee

Wicked, September 2-20, 2009, the mega-hit musical that tells the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch – long before Dorothy dropped in – adapted from the novel by Gregory Maguire and with a Grammy Award-winning score by Stephen Schwartz;

Little House on the Prairie – The Musical, October 27 – November 1, 2009, a new stage adaptation of the beloved Laura Ingalls Wilder novels, with Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura for ten years on the popular television series, as Ma Ingalls;

101 Dalmatians The Musical, January 19-24, 2010, a new staging adapted from the original novel, featuring a score by Dennis DeYoung of Styx, that provides an experience for all ages about what it means to be a family, canine and courageous;

The Drowsy Chaperone, February 9-14, 2010, a Tony Award-winning ‘musical within a comedy’ that pays homage to the great American musical of the Jazz Age and tells the story of musical theater lover whose favorite show magically bursts to life in his apartment when he plays his favorite LP;

The Color Purple, March 23-28, 2010, a touching stage version of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that spans the 40-year journey of an African American woman; and

A Chorus Line, May 4-9, 2010, a peek behind the scenes with 17 dancers auditioning for the opportunity of a lifetime, and one of the most honored and longest-running shows in American Broadway history – winning nine Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

TPAC will also present two Broadway Special performances.

Curious George Live!, October 23-25, 2009, a new, original musical featuring the delightfully curious little monkey and his adventures; and

Mamma Mia!, March 2-7, 2010, an ultimate feel-good show that has audiences coming back again and again to relive the thrill.

Tickets will be available for purchase approximately six to eight weeks prior to their opening at TPAC.

Tickets for Wicked are now available here.

Opry Country Classics Returns September 10

September 10 the Grand Ole Opry will kick off an eight-show fall run of the popular new show Opry Country Classics! The first show of the run will celebrate "Country Music Goes to the Movies" including a performance by Spotlight Artist Mel Tillis as well as host Larry Gatlin, The Whites, and more. Other shows include:

September 17: "Tribute To Hank Williams" with performances by Holly Williams, Moe Bandy, Joe Stampley, and more.

September 24: "Tribute to George Jones" with performances by host Vince Gill, plus CMA award-winners Jamey Johnson and Tanya Tucker, Hall of Famer Jimmy Dickens, and Jones, himself, as the night's Spotlight Artist.
Plus, appearances this fall by Ray Price, Marty Stuart, Pam Tillis, and many more!

Go here to purchase Opry Country Classics and Grand Ole Opry tickets.

Friday Night Lights Will Shine Bright At Creek Wood High School

The highly anticipated football game between the Creek Wood Red Hawks and the Dickson County High School Cougars will takes place this Friday night at the Creek Wood Stadium. Known as the Week Zero Game, Friday nights match up will be the first time two county teams have met as rivals in 38 years.

Thousands of Red Hawk and Cougar fans are expected to attend the historic game. Creek Wood is prepared to host the large crowd, 18 extra rows of bleachers were brought in from other schools, and additional concession stands were added. Shuttle busses from Dickson High and William James Middle School will be on hand to transport fans to and from the game. Creek Wood principal Janie Jones hopes the local National Guard unit will be available to provide assistance with parking at the stadium.

Devin Guthrie, Cougar quarterback and linebacker was surprised by Coach Joey Holley's announcement that their team would be facing the Red Hawks this year. "The coaches said we would never play Creek Wood. Then coach Holley came in and told us we were going to play them. It was surprising, but I’m excited about it, can’t wait to get on the field against them.”

Kick off is at 7 pm. For more information on the game or for the shuttle busses locations and schedules, call Creek Wood High School at 615 740 6000.

The Fairview Boys & Girls Club Recruiting Volunteers And Tutors

Fairview Boys & Girls Club Members Angel and Kameron Improve Their Cognitive Skills By Playing A Game Of Checkers


The Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 in Hartford Connecticut when a group of women believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, organized the first club. Today the Boys & Girls Club of America is a nationwide organization that serves more than four million boys and girls at more than four thousand locations. Eighty one clubs exist in Tennessee, benefiting almost sixty thousand young Tennesseans through membership and various community outreaches.

The Boys & Girls Club of Fairview was established in 2007 and is located inside the Berean Free Will Baptist Church. The club offers programs designed to develop young people’s capacity to engage in positive behaviors that nurture their own well-being, to set personal goals and to live successfully as self sufficient adults. Members also engage in physical fitness activities, and they learn how to make positive use of their leisure time. They are also taught stress management skills as well as an appreciation for the environment.

The club's after school program involves a strategy called "Project Learn" where members are fostered in continuous learning both in and out of the classroom. Volunteer tutors are recruited to help students with homework and to address individual areas that need special attention or improvement. Members are also encouraged to participate in high yield learning activities such as leisure reading, writing activities, and board games like chess and Scrabble that help develop their cognitive skills. Parental involvement is also encouraged. By communicating with parents about members educational needs and achievements the club's staff and volunteers help increase young people's chances for success in school and in future learning. "Project Learn" also offers recognition and incentives to members to keep them motivated to learn.

The Fairview Boys & Girls Club, a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee is a United Way of Williamson County Agency. Executive Director, Denise Carothers is currently looking for volunteers to work with members participating in the Fairview clubs after school program. "We hope all local community leaders, citizens and parents will join us in putting the needs of our children and teens at the forefront of our priorities. Members of the community can help by becoming tutors, mentoring youth and donating items to be used as incentives for participants of the after school program."

In its latest "Philanthropy 400" report, The Chronicle of Philanthropy ranked Boys & Girls Clubs of America number one among youth organizations for the 13th consecutive year, and number 12 among all nonprofit organizations. For information on local volunteer opportunities or to find out how to make a donation, call the Fairview Boys & Girls Club at 615 799-1880.

Mayor Karl Dean To Tour Stormwater Project

Mayor Karl Dean, Clean Water Infrastructure Program -"investment necessary to ensure safe, clean water."
February 6, 2009


Tomorrow morning (August 18) Mayor Karl Dean will tour two of the first major stormwater projects underway through the Clean Water Infrastructure Program (CWIP).

Dean will join District 7 Councilman Erik Cole at the corner of Northview and Cahal avenues in the Inglewood neighborhood at 10:30 a.m. and then travel a short distance to 2930 Glenmeade Drive. Staff from Metro Water Services will be on hand at both locations to explain the stormwater issues in those areas and how the capital projects already underway will solve them.

Metro Council approved the mayor’s Clean Water Infrastructure Program in mid March of this year. The first stormwater capital improvement projects under the program were started in early July. The program will fund $50 million in stormwater projects over the next five years, as well as the ongoing operation and maintenance of Metro’s Stormwater Management Program.

Stormwater management is critical to control flooding and pollution caused from runoff from rain and snow. Prior to CWIP, Metro did not have sufficient funds for stormwater capital improvement projects, such as the installation of ditches and culverts to direct runoff away from roadways and yards.

Recalling The Day Elvis Died

By Betsy Thorpe

I clearly remember the moment I learned that Elvis had died. I was in Austin Texas in the bedrooom of my good friend Justine Petela. I was admiring some fabric she had brought back from a recent trip to Guatemala, when we heard the news on the radio. The immediate sadness we felt surprised us both.

Today on the anniversary of "The King's" death I asked several people what they were doing when they learned of Elvis Presley's passing.



Bob Timmers
President Of The Rockabilly Hall Of Fame
Nashville Tennessee

"I was managing a Shopper's Guide (our family business) in Appleton, Wisconsin, when a salesman's wife called her husband and informed him of Elvis' death. She heard it on the radio. None of the 20 employees there could believe it."

In 1977 Timmers was the lead guitar player in a part time rock band in central Wisconsin ( in the Green Bay area). He later "long-distanced dated" Kay Wheeler, the president of Elvis' first official fan club. Today he is the president of the Rockabilly Hall Of Fame.


Linda Faye
Franklin Kentucky

"I was driving home from my job as a seamstress at White Stage Women's Apparel in Murfreesboro, when I heard on the radio that Elvis was dead. It upset me so bad that instead of going home I went to the auto shop where my husband was working so he could drive me home. I was shocked."

Nan Cross
Springfield Oregon

"I was out of town on a business trip, in Prineville (thats in central Oregon) I must have been on my way home when I heard that Elvis had died because I don't remember talking to anyone about it until I got home. It was sad that he died, in fact it still makes me sad."

On November 27, 1976 (9 months before his death) Elvis performed at Eugene Oregon's MacArthur Court. Mrs. Cross attended the sold out concert with her husband, two sons and a friend. The cost of a ticket to see Elvis Presley perform in 1976 was ten dollars.

Laura M
Nashville Tennessee

"I was really young when Elvis died, I was outside when I heard and went and found for my sister Jennifer, and told her we needed to get home to mamma. My mother really loved Elvis and she was really upset. We set with her and tried to calm her down. I sure remember that day."

Years later, against the wishes of her jealous husband Laura's mother "snuck away to Memphis for a day, to see Graceland and visit Elvis' grave. Me and my sister covered for her so daddy wouldn't know where she went."

Cathy Jackson
Irving Texas

"I was home from college when Elvis died. My father was a physician and I remember him saying that Elvis' doctor should be held accountable in part for his death. I was a big Elvis fan in 1977 and I must say that I still am. He changed American music and his influence on popular culture is still evident today."

Ms. Jackson is currently researching the impact early Rock and Roll made on Southern culture and contemporary religious music.


Sue Spence
Nashville Tennessee

"I was at an office party with my husband Jack when we learned that Elvis had died. Jack was the administrator of a medical facility in Little Rock. I don't remember why there was a party that day, but I do remember that all we talked about that afternoon was Elvis and his music. It was a very sad day."

In the late 1950's Mrs. Spence atteneded high school in Memphis Tennessee and she had the unique pleasure of meeting Elvis Presely - twice.

Remembering Woodstock

By Betsy Thorpe

In August of 1969 I was unaware that the major counter culture event, known as Woodstock was taking place in upstate New York. In 1969 I was fourteen and very curious about all things "hippi" and I soon knew all about Woodstock's three days of peace of and music.

I bought my copy of "Woodstock: Music from the Original Soundtrack and More" at the "Crystal Ship" in Eugene Oregon following its release in May of 1970.



My most vivid personal memory of "Woodstock" was the look of shock on my parents face when they walked into our living room to find me, my younger brothers and an assortment of neighborhood kids shouting out the lyrics to the "Fish Cheer" with Country Joe. My parents had never censored me but the look in my dad's eyes as we all yelled "be the first one on your block to have your son come home in a box" let me know that he did not ever want to hear that song played again in his home.

Looking back as an adult I understand now why my parents were so upset by the "Fish Cheer". My mother had two brothers, one nephew and at least two cousins on active duty in Southeast Asia. Our neighbor Janet was engaged to a well liked young man who was serving in Vietnam and many boys from our neighborhood had registered for the draft. As a self absorbed teenager I did not see that the issues that were troubling me and my generation were also a source of pain and worry for my parents and their peers.

(I did of course continue to play my Woodstock album inside our home, but never, ever when my parents were present.)

Weekly Address By President Barack Obama, August 15 2009

Weekly Address: Real Conversations about Health Insurance Reform

The President talks about how the chatter and ruckus around health insurance reform on television obscures the reality of what's happening in America. He discusses how in most towns people and Members of Congress are having constructive conversations, and how people are learning how reform will help them and their families with the real problems they have faced with the insurance system.



WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Says
Health Reform Will Put Patients’ Interests Ahead of Insurance Company Profits

WASHINGTON – In his weekly address, President Barack Obama described just how dysfunctional the current health insurance system is and how reform will fix it. Right now, the American people have a system that works better for the insurance industry than it does for them. Reform will put an end 14,000 Americans losing their insurance everyday and provide everyone with the security and stability missing today. It will stop insurance companies from creating annual or lifetime caps on coverage and will limit how much people can be charged for out-of-pocket expenses. Reform means lower costs, more choices, better coverage, and stronger businesses and families.

Remarks of President Barack Obama
Weekly Address
Saturday, August 15th, 2009

This week, I’ve been traveling across our country to discuss health insurance reform and to hear directly from folks like you – your questions, your concerns, and your stories.

Now, I know there’s been a lot of attention paid to some of the town hall meetings that are going on around the country, especially those where tempers have flared. You know how TV loves a ruckus.

But what you haven’t seen – because it’s not as exciting – are the many constructive meetings going on all over the country where Americans are airing their hopes and concerns about this very important issue.

I’ve been holding some of my own, and the stories I’ve heard have really underscored why I believe so strongly that health insurance reform is a challenge we can't ignore.

They’re stories like Lori Hitchcock’s, who I met in New Hampshire this week. Lori’s got a pre-existing condition, so no insurance company will cover her. She’s self-employed, and in this economy, she can’t find a job that offers health care, so she’s been uninsured for two years.

Or they’re stories like Katie Gibson’s, who I met in Montana. When Katie tried to change insurance companies, she was sure to list her pre-existing conditions on the application and even called her new company to confirm she’d be covered. Two months later, she was dropped – after she’d already gone off her other insurance.

These are the stories that aren’t being told – stories of a health care system that works better for the insurance industry than it does for the American people. And that’s why we’re going to pass health insurance reform that finally holds the insurance companies accountable.

But now’s the hard part. Because the history is clear – every time we come close to passing health insurance reform, the special interests with a stake in the status quo use their influence and political allies to scare and mislead the American people.

As an example, let’s look at one of the scarier-sounding and more ridiculous rumors out there – that so-called "death panels" would decide whether senior citizens get to live or die. That rumor began with the distortion of one idea in a Congressional bill that would allow Medicare to cover voluntary visits with your doctor to discuss your end-of-life care – if and only if you decide to have those visits. It had nothing to do with putting government in control of your decisions; in fact, it would give you all the information you need – if you want it – to put you in control of your decisions. When a conservative Republican Senator who has long-fought for even more far-reaching proposals found out how folks were twisting the idea, he called their misrepresentation, and I quote, "nuts."

So when folks with a stake in the status quo keep inventing these boogeymen in an effort to scare people, it’s disappointing, but it’s not surprising. We’ve seen it before. When President Roosevelt was working to create Social Security, opponents warned it would open the door to "federal snooping" and force Americans to wear dog tags. When President Kennedy and President Johnson were working to create Medicare, opponents warned of "socialized medicine." Sound familiar? Not only were those fears never realized, but more importantly, those programs have saved the lives of tens of millions of seniors, the disabled, and the disadvantaged.

Those who would stand in the way of reform will say almost anything to scare you about the cost of action. But they won’t say much about the cost of inaction. If you’re worried about rationed care, higher costs, denied coverage, or bureaucrats getting between you and your doctor, then you should know that’s what’s happening right now. In the past three years, over 12 million Americans were discriminated against by insurance companies due to a preexisting condition, or saw their coverage denied or dropped just when they got sick and needed it most. Americans whose jobs and health care are secure today just don’t know if they’ll be next to join the 14,000 who lose their health insurance every single day. And if we don’t act, average family premiums will keep rising to more than $22,000 within a decade.

On the other hand, here’s what reform will mean for you.

First, no matter what you’ve heard, if you like your doctor or health care plan, you can keep it. If you don’t have insurance, you’ll finally be able to afford insurance. And everyone will have the security and stability that’s missing today.

Insurance companies will be prohibited from denying you coverage because of your medical history, dropping your coverage if you get sick, or watering down your coverage when it counts – because there’s no point in having health insurance if it’s not there when you need it.

Insurance companies will no longer be able to place some arbitrary cap on the amount of coverage you can receive in a given year or lifetime, and we will place a limit on how much you can be charged for out-of-pocket expenses – because no one in America should go broke just because they get sick.

Finally, we’ll require insurance companies to cover routine checkups and preventive care, like mammograms and colonoscopies – because there’s no reason we shouldn’t be saving lives and dollars by catching diseases like breast cancer and prostate cancer on the front end.

That’s what reform means. For all the chatter and the noise out there, what every American needs to know is this: If you don’t have health insurance, you will finally have quality, affordable options once we pass reform. If you do have health insurance, we will make sure that no insurance company or government bureaucrat gets between you and the care that you need. And we will deliver this in a fiscally responsible way.

I know there’s plenty of real concern and skepticism out there. I know that in a time of economic upheaval, the idea of change can be unsettling, and I know that there are folks who believe that government should have no role at all in solving our problems. These are legitimate differences worthy of the real discussion that America deserves – one where we lower our voices, listen to one another, and talk about differences that really exist. Because while there may be disagreements over how to go about it, there is widespread agreement on the urgent need to reform a broken system and finally hold insurance companies accountable.

Nearly fifty years ago, in the midst of the noisy early battles to create what would become Medicare, President Kennedy said, "I refuse to see us live on the accomplishments of another generation. I refuse to see this country, and all of us, shrink from these struggles which are our responsibility in our time." Now it falls to us to meet the challenges of our time. And if we can come together, and listen to one another; I believe, as I always have, that we will rise to this moment, we will build something better for our children, and we will secure America’s future in this new century.

It Might Get Loud Limited Opening Today

Directed by Davis Guggenheim
Director of "An Inconvenient Truth"

Opens in Nashville At Nashville's Historic Belcourt Theatre, September 25



A documentary that brings together three generations of electric guitar virtuosos, Jimmy Page, The Edge and Jack White.


Correction and Update

We previously reported that the movie "It Might Get Loud" will open in Nashville at the Regal Theatre, however the movie will show at the Belcourt Theatre, located in Nashville's Hillsboro village.

We regret the error.
Go here to read more about "It Might Get Loud."

Remembering August 14th 1972

New Book In Outlander Series, An Echo In The Bone, By Diana Gabaldon, To Go On Sale September 22

My publisher asked me to post this message:

If you’re here, you’re an Outlander fan. The seventh book in the series, An Echo in the Bone, is coming out 9/22 (really!!).
From Diana's blog, July 24th 2009

REVIEW
Author Unknown

Diana Gabaldon's brilliant storytelling has captivated millions of readers in her bestselling and award-winning Outlander saga. Now, in An Echo in the Bone, the enormously anticipated seventh volume, Gabaldon continues the extraordinary story of the eighteenth-century Scotsman Jamie Fraser and his twentieth-century time-traveling wife, Claire Randall.

Jamie Fraser, former Jacobite and reluctant rebel, is already certain of three things about the American rebellion: The Americans will win, fighting on the side of victory is no guarantee of survival, and he'd rather die than have to face his illegitimate son-a young lieutenant in the British army-across the barrel of a gun.

Claire Randall knows that the Americans will win, too, but not what the ultimate price may be. That price won't include Jamie's life or his happiness, though-not if she has anything to say about it.

Meanwhile, in the relative safety of the twentieth century, Jamie and Claire's daughter, Brianna, and her husband, Roger MacKenzie, have resettled in a historic Scottish home where, across a chasm of two centuries, the unfolding drama of Brianna's parents' story comes to life through Claire's letters. The fragile pages reveal Claire's love for battle-scarred Jamie Fraser and their flight from North Carolina to the high seas, where they encounter privateers and ocean battles-as Brianna and Roger search for clues not only to Claire's fate but to their own. Because the future of the MacKenzie family in the Highlands is mysteriously, irrevocably, and intimately entwined with life and death in war-torn colonial America.

With stunning cameos of historical characters from Benedict Arnold to Benjamin Franklin, An Echo in the Bone is a soaring masterpiece of imagination, insight, character, and adventure-a novel that echoes in the mind long after the last page is turned.

Justice Sotomayor Honored At White Reception August 12, 2009

In the East Room of the White House, the President and the First Lady hosted a reception to celebrate some history being made. Members of Justice Sotomayor's family and friends, leaders of the Hispanic community, members of Congress, Supreme Court justices, judges from the federal Courts of Appeals, and others inspired by the confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor gathered for a reception, and to hear a few words from the President and America’s first Hispanic Justice.

The Bellevue History And Genealogical Group Hosts NCPS President Terry Coats

Bob Allen And Nashville Chattanooga Preservation Society President Terry Coats Address The Bellevue History And Genealogical Group
August, 2009

Last week the Bellevue History and Genealogical Group hosted guest speaker Terry L. Coats, President of the NC&St.L Preservation Society. President Coats spoke to the group on the early development of railroading in Tennessee with an emphasis on the development and history of the Nashville & Northwestern Railroad. Prior to the Civil War The Nashville and Northwestern Railroad provided service to Bellevue and the surrounding area.

In 1873 the NC&St.L Railways purchased the N&NW Railroad. Through the years this historic rail line has passed through the hands of the NC&St.L, the L&N, Family Lines and today is part of the CSX Railroad. This line, in service since 1859 is the main line between Nashville and Memphis, and is the gateway through that city to the West Coast.

The Bellevue History and Genealogy Group, led by Bob Allen meets weekly on Fridays at the Bellevue YMCA. As the groups leader, Allen assists seniors with genealogy research and secures speakers for historical lectures, he also coordinates and leads historical oriented field trips. For more information on the Bellevue History and Genealogy Group call the Bellevue YMCA of Middle Tennessee at 615 646-9622.