High speed chase ends in Davidson Co.

Two men face serious charges after leading Wilson County deputies and Metro police on a multi-county chase. Police said the deputies tried to pull the car over at about 1 a.m. The car took off and crossed into Davidson County. Wilson County deputies lost the car as speeds reached 120 miles-per-hour. Metro police spotted the car off Stewarts Ferry Pike in the Hermitage area. Police said the car eventually blew a tire off Jacksonian Drive. Officers said the suspects bailed out of the car but where caught a short time later. Police recovered a gun from the scene. The suspects' names have not been released.

Tennessee prepares to award recycling rebates

Middle Tennessee Several Middle Tennessee communities are eligible to receive money from the state for their recycling efforts. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is preparing to give $600,000 in recycling rebates to 11 counties, and four are in the Nashville region. Local and county governments in Davidson, Rutherford, Williamson and Sumner counties stand to get a piece of the pie. Nashville, for example, is eligible to get $80,000.

Lawsuit: Metro blocks English-only vote unfairly

Group says attorneys twist the law By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer • August 29, 2008 A group that hopes to make English the official language of Nashville filed suit against the city Thursday in an effort to put the issue up for a vote this fall. Nashville English First sponsor and Metro Councilman Eric Crafton acted two days after the Davidson County Election Commission refused to put the referendum on the Nov. 4 ballot, despite the pro-English group's collection of enough county voters' signatures to do so. City attorneys have said the Nov. 4 election will fall three days short of a two-year gap required between petition-driven referendums on proposals to change the Metro Charter. The last such referendum was held Nov. 7, 2006. But Jim Roberts, an attorney for Nashville English First and Crafton, said Metro attorneys read the law in a way that was rigged to keep voters from deciding the issue. "They don't want the voters of Davidson County to vote on this referendum," Roberts told reporters after filing the lawsuit in Davidson County Chancery Court. "The only way they could prevent that was to stop it before it started." Metro's deputy law director, Mike Safley, declined to comment on the complaint. The proposed charter amendment would require that all Metro meetings, communications and publications be conducted or published in English, with no exceptions for health or safety. Critics have acknowledged that they'll do what's necessary to keep the measure from becoming law, including challenging supporters' ability to put it up for a countywide vote. The Metro Charter says charter amendments cannot "be submitted by petition more often than once in each two years." Metro Law Director Sue Cain wrote in a legal opinion Monday that "it has not been two years since the last petition to amend the Charter was submitted to the people." The Nashville English First lawsuit says the two-year gap refers to the dates when petitions were submitted to the Metro Clerk's office. Organizers of the 2006 ballot initiative submitted their petition on Aug. 8 of that year. Nashville English First says it submitted its petition, with more than 12,500 signatures, on Aug. 15, though news accounts show the date was actually Aug. 14. "Having otherwise qualified their initiative petition, Plaintiffs have been injured both financially and substantively due solely to the Cain letter and the actions of the Commission in accepting and complying with the Cain letter," according to the lawsuit. The complaint asks that the court order the election commission to certify the signatures and hold the referendum on Nov. 4 or in "a special election three days after Nov. 4." The lawsuit also says Metro allowed two charter amendment referendums within a two-year period in the 1990s and is ignoring a clear precedent. Referendums were held Nov. 5, 1996, and Nov. 3, 1998. But every charter amendment proposal in 1996 was submitted by the Metro Council, not by voter petition, Elections Administrator Ray Barrett confirmed. The charter says the council can't put charter referendums on the ballot more than twice in a four-year term, but it makes no reference to the time between those two submissions.

MNPS offering free computer classes for parents

Parents of Metro Public Schools students can sign up for free adult computer-training classes provided by the MNPS Community Career Center. Basic beginner, as well as Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint classes are being offered. The free classes start Sept. 8 and will be offered through November at the following locations:302 Foster Street in East Nashville3900 Clifton Ave. (near 40th Ave. N. and Charlotte Pike)601 Benton Ave. (near the fairgrounds)To register, call 298-6752. Class schedules can be viewed at www.mnps.org/Page41311.aspx.

Hickory Hollow Mall may add office mix

Owners have 'no intentions to close,' but will refocus on malls its size By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer • August 25, 2008 Hickory Hollow Mall is here to stay, a mall official says. At a recent meeting of the Hickory Hollow Business Alliance, CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. regional manager Mike Johnson bluntly dismissed any notion that the mall may be nearing its end. His statement was in response to rumors that the mall has become not just a victim but a near-casualty of crime and competition. We have no intentions to close Hickory Hollow Mall," Johnson said at the meeting. "Our intentions are to keep it as a very viable center." CBL & Associates Properties purchased Hickory Hollow Mall in 1998. A couple of years later, the mall underwent major renovations that included a whole new interior motif, as well as improvements to the exterior. But the mall has struggled in recent years to keep up with its peers, CoolSprings Galleria and Rivergate Mall, both of which are also owned by CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. Last year, the mall had an 84 percent occupancy rate according to CBL & Associates filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Occupancy rates at CoolSprings and Rivergate were 99 percent and 97 percent, respectively. Although the mall's parent company is determined not to give up on the traditional mall concept, the company is devising strategies it hopes will give the mall a more promising future. Mall to remain primarily retail Johnson said the mall would remain majority retail, and anchor tenants would continue to be a huge part of its focus when it comes to leasing. A new tenant the mall recently announced is Famous Labels, a value retailer which will be making Hickory Hollow its first location in Tennessee. But CBL & Associates Properties is refocusing its efforts on malls this size, Johnson said. Johnson said possible future partnerships include something like that of 100 Oaks Mall and Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where medical offices are moving in with the retail mix. "We're looking at alternative uses," he said, adding they would be complimentary to the retail environment. "It's becoming unusual that malls this size can support 100 percent retail," he said. The company also plans to redevelop Hickory Hollow Courtyard, which is an adjacent piece of property associated with the mall. Johnson said the company is planning to add more retail, as well as restaurants there. The movie theater and TGI Fridays, which currently sit on the property, would remain. Marketing strategies target trade areas In determining the tenant mixes for its malls, CBL & Associates Properties looks for tenants that "offer products and services that fit that trade area," Johnson said. Also, Johnson said, although the company's three malls share advertising during peak retail seasons, Hickory Hollow targets its marketing toward its own trade area. "We have a pretty traditional marketing concept," he said. Johnson said Hickory Hollow is always looking for anchor tenants that don't have a presence in other markets. But, he said, having tenants that are duplicates of those at its sister malls helps more than it hurts. Johnson said there's no doubt that changes in the demographics and competition have forced the company to rethink its focus. "There's no question that the Cool Springs area has a higher per capita income," he said, adding that demographics do make a difference. Also, he said, an "influx of competition" from places such as Opry Mills and The Avenue and Stones River Mall in Murfreesboro have had an effect. "That has affected the tenant mix quite a bit, which is why we've refocused our efforts on finding some alternative uses." Malls everywhere are facing challenges The recent announcement that Dillard's would be leaving the mall this month has caused concerns to escalate about the mall's ability to survive. Linens 'n Things has also announced it would be leaving, following former tenants J.C. Penney and Hallmark. Bill Vaughn, president of The Shopping Center Group, said that many of the problems that department stores are facing, however, are national and not specific to Hickory Hollow Mall. Regarding the local situation, Vaughn described the mall as "a work in progress." "It's just reflecting the change in demographics of that trade area," he said. Britt Beemer, founder of America's Research Group, said the mall should be cautious about how it adapts changes in its customer base. The mall, he said, needs to be attracting new customers as quickly as it's losing old customers. Also, said Beemer, the mall is likely facing some of the challenges that malls everywhere are facing. "Many malls simply don't have enough traffic to make all of their numbers work," he said. This is both a reflection of the economy and changes in shopping trends, he added. And most malls lack individuality and features that would keep them fresh and current and, thus, attractive, he said. Contact Suzanne Normand Blackwood by telephone at 259-8268 or by e-mail at sblackwood@tennessean.com.

Home invasion injures Antioch resident

Tuesday • August 26, 2008 Metro police are investigating a home invasion and robbery that left the victim injured. About 12:40 a.m. Tuesday, officers responded to a home invasion that occurred on Charmaine Court, which is off of Una-Antioch Pike. Metro police Capt. Randy Hickerson said that the victim arrived home and was walking to the home when he was approached by two men. One produced a handgun and they forced the victim inside the home, where they took money During the robbery, the victim attempted to take the gun away from the suspect, and the suspect hit the victim in the head with the gun, Hickerson said. The victim was injured but refused medical treatment. The two suspects fled on foot. They were described as men dressed in all black and wearing masks, possibly in their early 20s.There is no indication that the suspects knew the victim.Anyone who has information on this crime is asked to call police at 74-CRIME. The incident occurred in the South Precinct.— LEIGH RAY Leigh Ray can be reached at 615-726-5951 or lray@tennessean.com.

Notable Kids: How parents and teachers can nominate

The Tennessean is starting up another year of its Notable Kids feature on the Classroom page. This is an opportunity for parents and teachers to recognize K-12 students for their accomplishments. To nominate a Notable Kid, please send his or her name, school, age, grade, academic achievements and extracurricular activities plus a digital or hard-copy photograph to: education editor Heidi Hall, hhall@tennessean.com, or to Heidi Hall's attention at The Tennessean, 1100 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. Please include contact information so any questions may be answered.

Convenience store near airport robbed again

A man armed with a knife robbed a Mapco market on Donelson Pike, police said Monday morning. Metro police Capt. Randy Hickerson said that at about 3:45 a.m. today, a man armed with a knife entered the store at 465 Donelson Pike and demanded money from the clerk. The clerk gave him money from the register, and the robber then fled on foot. It was the second robbery at this location in less than a week. Police reported a robbery last Thursday morning at the same Mapco market. The suspect in today's robbery is described as a white man in his early 20s, 6 feet tall, and wearing camouflage shorts and a black tank top and a white bandanna over his face. No one was injured in the incident, which occurred in the Hermitage Precinct. Anyone with information on the crime is asked to call police at 74-CRIME. — LEIGH RAY Leigh Ray can be reached at 615-726-5951 or lray@tennessean.com.

Today's Business Briefs

The following permits were among those issued Friday by the Metro Codes Administration: School addition. Value: $3.3 million. Shankle-Lind LLC took out a permit to build a 23,734-square-foot addition to Una Elementary School.

Antioch Shootout

The Citypaper August 25, 2008 Whatever’s in the water in Antioch made for an uncomfortable, yet entertaining, Metro Council meeting last week.Standing front and center in the controversial spotlight was Antioch Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite, whose lengthy monologues have produced many an eye roll from her colleagues this Council term. It all started with Council considering the charter amendment resolution, stating members who serve less than two years finishing out a term can still run for re-election two more times. Wilhoite proposed an amendment to the resolution, which said it would not take effect until 2011, after the next election.That would have hurt five current members who have finished out terms, including Wilhoite’s fellow Antioch Councilman Robert Duvall. Rex’s Council sources say Wilhoite’s motivation was to make sure Duvall couldn’t serve an extra term. Turns out it didn’t matter what her motivation was, because the proposal was soundly defeated by Council.But the bickering didn’t end there. Antioch Council members Sam Coleman and Duane Dominy both took swipes at Wilhoite before the meeting was over.

Council Woman Vivian Wilhoite Enjoys End of Summer Party at the Deerfield Apartments in Nashbor Village

Saturday, August 23rd, 2008

Free cell phones offered to poor Tenn. residents

By LUCAS L. JOHNSON II updated 3:51 p.m. CT, Fri., Aug. 15, 2008 NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A cell phone company is offering free wireless phones and 68 minutes of free air time to more than 800,000 low-income Tennessee residents in a program aimed at ensuring they can make a call in an emergency. Prepaid cell phone provider TracFone Wireless Inc. announced Friday that it's launching its SafeLink Wireless program in Tennessee, which officials said would become the first state to have widespread, free emergency wireless service for poor people. SafeLink provides eligible low-income households with a cell phone, access to 911 emergency services and 68 minutes of free air time for up to a year before customers have to reapply. If customers run through their 68 minutes, they can still call 911 — which is a free call — and they can purchase additional minutes for other calls at a discounted rate, said Jose Fuentes, director of government relations for Tracfone Wireless. The cell phone's standard features include voicemail, text capability, call waiting, international calling to over 60 destinations and caller ID. The Federal Communications Commission recently authorized TracFone to provide SafeLink, the company's version of the federally subsidized program Lifeline. Other carriers are certified to use Lifeline, but they provide discounts on wireless service, rather than free service. Fuentes said the program will aid more than 800,000 low-income households in Tennessee. Safelink can offer the free service because of a government subsidy of $10 per customer, to which the company adds $3.50. Fuentes said other carriers are aware of the benefits of Lifeline but don't broadly advertise them. John Taylor, a spokesman for Sprint Nextel Corp., one of the nation's top three carriers, disputed Fuentes' claim of sparse advertisement. He said Sprint participates in the Lifeline program by offering a discount on services and advertises on its Web site and through print, such as mailings. According to the FCC, 21 million households across the country qualify for Lifeline. "I'm elated that this program is providing needy families with access to basic cell phone service," said Democratic House Speaker Pro Tem Lois DeBerry of Memphis, which has the state's highest low-income population. Fuentes said families may qualify if their household income is not above 135 percent of the federal poverty level, and if they receive assistance through government programs such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. Nicholas P. Sullivan, a visiting scholar at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, recently released a study analyzing the impact of mobile phones on low-income households. He said the troubled economy makes the phones even more of an asset. "Our study showed cell phones can significantly boost the earning potential of these communities, and this connectivity vastly encourages their opportunities and remains central to their everyday survival," Sullivan said. According to his study, 40 percent of people in blue-collar jobs say their cell phone has provided an opportunity to gain employment or make money. However, Sullivan said what he found most interesting was the emphasis on "emergency use." The study found: _ A cell phone is preferred to a landline phone for mobility and security, and is preferred to a landline phone for emergency use by a 3-1 ratio. _ 48 percent have used their cell phone to call or text. _ 20 percent have received an emergency call or text on their cell phone. _ 32 percent have purchased a cell phone for a relative to use in an emergency. Tennessee Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell agrees a cell phone is a valuable safety tool, especially when someone is traveling. "This program will allow drivers to call 911 if they encounter an emergency or get stranded while on the road," he said. "I am thrilled that Tennessee is the first state in the country to offer this program and help keep our citizens safe." Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Metro uses bonus pay plan to fill vacancies

WkRN Channel 2 The $4,000 bonus offered by Metro schools this year to fill teacher vacancies in high-demand subjects like math and special education seems to be working. Metro schools started the new school year Monday 21 teachers short, about that same as last year, but not bad for a system with nearly 5,000 teachers. Last year, a majority of the vacancies were in math. This year there is only three, namely because the $4,000 bonus. "I think we have a new advantage in hiring that we haven't had before," said Assistant Superintendent Dr. June Keel. Kevin Deans is new to Metro but not new to teaching. A career opportunity for his wife brought him to Middle Tennessee from upstate New York. He liked what he saw in Metro schools and then came the bonus. "I was shocked. I was absolutely shocked," he told News 2. "I kind of had this idea I'll believe it when I see it but yes, definitely, especially since we have four-year-old twins, and we just relocated here, it was definitely an incentive." The bonus pay plan was worked out with the teacher's association. So far, Metro has used it to sign 21 math teachers and 16 special education teachers. The said they still have a few openings to fill in both specialties.

Motorcyclist killed in Antioch crash

WKRN Channel 2 News One man was killed in a motorcycle accident in the Antioch area overnight. Police said 32-year-old Shawn Lee Patrick and his brother-in-law, 36-year-old Ronald Mealer, were traveling eastbound on Franklin Limestone Road when Patrick he failed to negotiate a sharp curve and struck a tree at about 1 a.m. Tuesday. Patrick was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. Mealer told investigators Patrick had been drinking earlier in the day. Police said speed also appears to be a contributing factor in the crash. Patrick was wearing a helmet. The curve on Franklin-Limestone Road just before Billingsgate Road is notoriously dangerous. "We have numerous crashes out here, so this is quite a common occurrence," said Metro police crash investigator Joseph Jakes. Police said the second motorcyclist would not face any charges in the crash. The popularity of motorcycles has increased over the years and with more bikes comes for deadly crashes. The Federal Government recorded about 2,300 motorcycle fatalities in1994. By 2004, that number had jumped over 4,000. Tennessee recorded 93 motorcycle deaths that year.

Council increases Nashville hotel room tax

Money will go into fund for attracting tourists to major events By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer(Tennessean) • August 20, 2008 A night in any Davidson County hotel room will cost an extra 50 cents to create a pool of money to help Nashville market major events to attract tourists, the Metro Council decided Tuesday. The decision upset many hotel owners and operators, who said the additional tax would hurt their business. Metro already charges a $2 room tax to help pay for a proposed downtown convention center, along with the standard hotel/motel tax. Kirrit Bhikha, owner of Alexis Inn and Suites at the Airport, said the tax rate for a $50 room is already higher than the rate for a $150 room, as a percentage of the overall cost. Adding a flat tax won't address that inequity, Bhikha said. "It doesn't make sense." The National Business Travel Association says Nashville has the second-highest tax rate for travelers in the nation. But supporters of the new tax said it would allow the city to help the organizers of large tourist-magnet events, such as the CMA Music Festival and the Music City Bowl. Events must have a "cumulative total economic impact" of more than $5 million to qualify for assistance. The tax is possible because of a state law passed earlier this year. "It's a simple question," Councilman Greg Adkins said. "We have two options. We can tax tourists, or we can tax residents in your districts." Adkins said the council could revisit the issue "if it has the impact of shutting down hotels, which no one wants." The "event and marketing fund" will be administered by a committee appointed by Mayor Karl Dean. The Metro finance director will have to approve any expenditures. Lobbyists for the bill said the committee's records would be public.

Red Cross Blood Drive at Summit

BY ANDY HUMBLES | AHUMBLES@TENNESSEAN.COM | 726-5939 • August 18, 2008 A Red Cross Blood Drive will be held at 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Summit Medical Center, 5655 Frist Boulevard, in Hermitage. Donors should be at least 17-years-old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. Donors should present positive identification. For information or to schedule an appointment to donate call 316-3130.

Red Cross Blood Drive at Summit

BY ANDY HUMBLES | AHUMBLES@TENNESSEAN.COM | 726-5939 • August 18, 2008 A Red Cross Blood Drive will be held at 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Summit Medical Center, 5655 Frist Boulevard, in Hermitage. Donors should be at least 17-years-old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. Donors should present positive identification. For information or to schedule an appointment to donate call 316-3130.

Heart attack care seminar at Summit

BY ANDY HUMBLES | AHUMBLES@TENNESSEAN.COM | 726-5939 • August 15, 2008 “Current Concepts in Acute Heart Attack Care,’’ will be the next Summit Prime Lunch & Learn seminar at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19 at Summit Medical Center’s Classrooms D/E. Addressed will include: Risk factors. Signs and symptoms that demand immediate attention. Treatment options for acute heart attack. What to expect when you or a loved one, as a patient, reach the hospital. A free light lunch is included. Reservations are required. Call 342-1919.

Soles4Souls partners with Shoe Carnival to donate money and shoes

Nashville-based charity Soles4Souls said Monday it will partner with Shoe Carnival next month to raise money and donate used shoes for people in need. The program launches Sept. 3 and ends Sept. 24. Customers can donate money at any participating Shoe Carnival store. Customers can also donate "gently worn shoes" and receive a $5 coupon at the stores, Soles4Souls said. Soles4Souls said with a $2 donation, one of 300 million children in the world without shoes can receive their first pair of shoes.

No Child Left Behind meeting for parents scheduled tomorrow

Parents can attend an informational meeting on No Child Left Behind this Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 6:30-8 p.m. The Metro Nashville Public Schools Federal Programs Office will host the meeting in the board room at the Central Administration Building, 2601 Bransford Ave. Through NCLB, students zoned for schools listed as High Priority have the option to attend a different school in the district. The law requires these schools offer Supplemental Educational Services, such as tutoring programs, for all students. Parents will learn what Choice is, the stipulations and regulations surrounding Choice, where students attending High Priority schools are eligible to transfer and transportation options surrounding Choice. The forum will provide information on how schools become targeted as High Priority, and parents will receive a tutoring request packet and information on how to choose the best tutoring service. All state approved tutoring services have also been invited to attend. Parents unable to attend the meeting can contact the SES Coordinator at their child’s school for more information.

Antioch Middle School gets more space

Boys & Girls Club will use school's portables for after-school program By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer(Tennessean) • August 15, 2008 When school starts this year, Antioch Middle School will be about half the size it was last year in terms of students. The biggest change by far this year is "our enrollment, because they opened Thurgood Marshall," said Assistant Principal Cindy Tarkington. About half of Antioch Middle's students went to Thurgood Marshall Middle School, which recently opened. Antioch Middle also lost half of its faculty as a result. Because of the decreased enrollment, the school no longer has to use its portables. The Boys & Girls Club will use the portables for an after-school program. But although enrollment is significantly less than last year's 950, the number is quickly rising, Tarkington said. At the end of the school year, enrollment was projected at 450. Now, it is up to 550, she said. The fluctuation has school officials on their toes about hiring decisions. And speaking of hiring decisions, other changes this year include Tarkington, who was promoted from a teaching position to assistant principal. Assistant Principal Bill Allen went to J.F. Kennedy Middle School, and assistant principal Wiley Shepherd was promoted to highly qualified coordinator, a position in the central office. The school's other assistant principal position was eliminated because of the decreased enrollment. The school also has a new Spanish teacher and a new fifth-grade teacher. The school will be adding a second fifth-grade teacher, but that position has not yet been filled. Lakeview students will open savings accounts Lakeview Elementary School will be starting a program this year that teaches students how to save money by opening savings accounts. "We will be working with U.S. Community Credit Union to start a Dollar Dog Kids Club," said new principal Robin Shumate. Also, said Shumate, "We are going to start some after-school clubs — a math club and a reading club and either a science or social studies club." "We'll have tutoring also," she said, and the school will now offer ELL classes.

Suspect sought in vending machine break-ins

Metro Police are searching for the person or people responsible for a rash of vending machine break-ins at apartment complexes and car washes in South Nashville. Video surveillance photos from one of the cases show a young white man with short hair, who police suspect to be involved with the break-ins. Police said the getaway vehicle is a white Chevrolet Cavalier convertible with a black top. Anyone with information about the thefts should contact South Precinct Investigations at 862-7763 or Crime Stoppers at 74-CRIME.

Dora the Explorer to be at Nashville Shores

A lunch and meet and greet with characters Dora the Explorer and her friend Boots will be held at noon-1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30 at Nashville Shores, 4001 Bell Road in Hermitage. The lunch and meet and greet is $10 and in addition to paid admission to the water park. All-day admission is $23.95 plus tax for persons 48 inches or taller and $17.95 plus tax for persons shorter than 48 inches. Park hours for the day are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For information call 889-7050.

Mosquitoes test positive a third time for West Nile

Mosquitoes tested positive for a third time in the past month near the intersection of Murfreesboro Road and Bell Road in Antioch. Test results confirm sustained West Nile virus infection among mosquitoes. “Having repeated positive mosquitoes over a period of time in one residential area is very rare in Davidson County” said Bill Paul, M.D., Director of Health. “We need to take additional, targeted action because these conditions represent a significant public health threat.” Spraying will take place on Monday, August 18th and again Thursday, August 21st. Spraying will occur in selected areas within the following boundaries: South of Nashboro Boulevard/Smith Springs Road West of Owendale Drive/Butler Road North of Anderson Road/Bell Road East of Murfreesboro Road Spraying will begin at dusk (8 p.m.) and nighttime hours when female Culex mosquitoes are most active. If it rains, or winds are greater than 10 miles per hour, then the Health Department will reschedule spraying. The Health Department will utilize ultra low volume (ULV) application of sumithrin/piperonyl butoxide (Anvil 2+2) by licensed technicians on trucks to control adult mosquitoes. Anvil 2+2 is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency for use in residential and recreational areas. The first batch of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus in Antioch July 17th. The Health Department increased trapping and testing efforts in the area to determine if there was sustained transmission of infection or if this was an isolated occurrence, and also stepped up efforts to remove standing water, apply larvicides, and notify residents to avoid mosquito bites. Despite these actions, a second batch of mosquitoes tested positive July 31, and a third batch collected last week tested positive, documenting sustained transmission of the virus in this area. This is the first time since 2006 that the Health Department will spray to reduce the threat of WNV in the mosquito population. Health Department officials continue to monitor standing water areas and apply larvicide when mosquito larvae are present. Mosquito traps are monitored twice weekly in all areas within Davidson County.

Metro opens police office in Hickory Hollow Mall

By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • August 15, 2008 Commander Mike Alexander As a way of increasing police presence in the Hickory Hollow area, the Metro Police Department has set up an office inside Hickory Hollow Mall. Officers assigned to the Hickory Hollow area and flexteam members will use the office to do paperwork. Officers also will have a kiosk set up at the mall for recruiting purposes. Commander Mike Alexander of the Metro Police South Precinct said, to his knowledge, this is the only time in recent years that Metro police have set up a permanent office in a place such as a shopping mall. He said it's convenient for the officers who need a place to take care of administrative duties. Also, he added, "we want to do what we can to increase officer visibility in the hope that we will prevent crime, deter crime or lessen the likelihood that someone will become the victim of a crime in the Hickory Hollow area." Alexander said the decision resulted from several meetings with mall management. He said the mall decided to take a proactive approach to public safety, and communication was the key to getting started. Metro police will be working closely with mall security to ensure the mall environment is safe, he said. The goal, Alexander added, "is to improve the safety and quality of life of people in the area." "This won't be a catch-all," said Metro Councilman Sam Coleman, who has discussed with members of the Hickory Hollow Business Alliance the possibility of also hiring a private security firm to enhance security in the area. But it is the beginning of a public safety presence, he said. Police will try to recruit Alexander said the kiosk would have information about law enforcement careers as well as civilian positions. Recruitment would be targeted to people of all eligible ages, he said, but the opportunity for youth outreach is particularly a plus. "It gives us a chance to be a positive role model to any youth who may be in the mall," he said. Alexander said he hopes the community embraces the new partnership Metro police have begun with the mall and sees it as a positive addition. He noted on the recent success of the Fed Up march and rally, which took place in conjunction with Nashville Night Out Against Crime. Fed Up is a movement led by youth for the purpose of stopping youth violence.

Photos from last Saturday's Free Health Fair at Kmart

Seems like all had a good time!

Photos by M. Schwartz

Metro Police to set up office at Hickory Hollow Mall

As a way of increasing police presence in the Hickory Hollow area, the Metro Police Department is setting up an office inside Hickory Hollow Mall. Officers assigned to the Hickory Hollow area and flex team members will use the office to do paperwork. Officers also will have a kiosk set up at the mall for recruiting purposes.

Antioch churches 'fed up' with negative perceptions

Mt. Zion church kicks off teen-based, anti-violence movement at Hickory Hollow Mall event By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer Tennessean • August 11, 2008 Darrell K. Walker, overseer of children and youth ministries for Mount Zion Baptist Church, says he is "fed up." "We're all fed up," he said. "We're all tired of the perception of our community." So, added Walker, "we decided we're all going to work together to make this change." Walker, whose church has a campus in Antioch, was referring to the negative image the area has acquired in recent years due to crime and youth violence. As a way of overcoming the problem, Mount Zion and other churches are leading a movement called "Fed Up." The movement kicked off last week with Nashville Night Out Against Crime. As part of the annual citywide celebration, Fed Up organizers held a march and a rally. Supporters marched down Bell Road from Lakeshore Christian Church, which is the former Media Play building, to Hickory Hollow Mall carrying banners with anti-violence messages. The march culminated in a rally at the mall that featured live concerts, information booths, giveaways, food vendors and children's activities. A pledge against violence Before the event, Walker said it was estimated that more than 500 teens were planning to take part in the march. The teens passed out nonviolence pledge cards for all teens to sign pledging that they will choose peace over violence. Fed Up is a teen-driven movement, Walker said. It's a movement organized by teens for teens, with the guidance and leadership of adults. The vision began with the Bishop Joseph W. Walker III, pastor of Mt. Zion. The church has held youth rallies in the past, attracting tens of thousands of teens. But this time, it wanted to hold a similar event that would take place in conjunction with Night Out Against Crime. But, said Darrell Walker, his church didn't want to reinvent the wheel. That's why they invited other churches, various government and non-profit agencies, and businesses to join them. Jeremiah Brigham, 12, said the negative reputation of today's teens disturbs him. "It does bother me to say our teens aren't taking an interest in being role models for younger people," he said. "They should be setting an example." Also, said Jeremiah, who attends J.F. Kennedy Middle and is involved in the Fed Up movement, the problem of youth violence is not just in high schools. It's in middle schools. He said the subject of gangs also occasionally comes up. "I hear about it sometimes," he said. Fed Up, the movement Jeremiah said he thought the march was a good way to "let people know violence is wrong," though, and he believes making it a movement is the right approach. "I think it will take two or three more times to get teens to realize violence isn't the way to solve problems," he said. The Rev. Jay Voorhees, pastor of partner Antioch United Methodist Church, said they wanted to focus on building and maintaining relationships with teens and ask, "How does it reflect what Jesus would want this to look like?" The movement, he said, became a "rallying point for building those relationships." The Rev. Anibal Peña, pastor of partner Iglesia Monte Los Olivos, shared Voorhees' sentiments. Outside of their own churches, he said there is nothing on this scale for Hispanic youth. And for Hispanic youth who do not attend church, there is nothing like this. Voorhees said the area is perhaps the most culturally diverse in Davidson County, and there are churches of many denominations. This is also a way to "transcend all of those differences," he said. A way out Walker said the non-faith-based partners agreed that that the faith-based community should be at the center of the movement. But by expanding the network to involve various agencies and community leaders, they could meet teens' physical needs as well as their spiritual needs. Voorhees said Hickory Hollow Mall, particularly, has been a supportive partner. Nathan Thomas, the mall's marketing director, said Mt. Zion and the mall have similar goals. For the mall, "providing a safe, enjoyable shopping experience has always been a goal," he said. Also, said Thomas, "we like to have our finger on the pulse of Antioch." For those reasons, "we're happy to partner with Mt. Zion (in) this collaborative effort." The Fed Up movement will continue throughout the year, with workshops and mentoring and tutoring programs for teens. Thomas said the mall is willing to provide space for workshops and seminars. He sees the movement as "a positive voice" for Antioch and one the mall "wants to stand behind." At a time when the Hickory Hollow area is struggling to overcome a negative image, the movement promotes a good image for the area, he said. Walker said he hopes the teens that are involved in the movement will spread the message to their friends. He particularly hopes that gangs will heed the message of the Fed Up movement and decide to turn against violence. Walker said there would be interventions for teens that are involved in gangs and want to separate but are afraid to do it on their own. It's a way of saying, "We're not going to be afraid. We're going to move forward," said Voorhees. The goal, added Walker, is to "change families, change a generation." Photos by M.Schwartz

Anyone having a Tag Sale? Anyone need the Flip Tops from the cans picked up?

Let us know so we can post on the blog. This blog is for the community. Any suggestions are welcomed. Contest coming keep watch the blog for when the contest will take place. Please leave a message about any events goig on in your community to mssphotography@aol.com

Antioch Fights For New Community Center

Councilwoman Says Outlying Neighborhoods Left Out Reported By Anne Marshall POSTED: 11:10 am CDT August 11, 2008 UPDATED: 11:25 am CDT August 11, 2008 Channel 4 Nashville NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Even though it's the fastest growing area of Davidson County and has some crime issues, some say Antioch is being ignored. Video: Antioch Looks For Community Center Funding There is only one community center in the area, and it's leaving at-risk kids with few places to go to keep off the streets. The Metro Parks Department recently updated its master plan and stated that Antioch is in great need of more parks, and a new community center is a priority. For the last few years, a new community center in Antioch has been left out of the capital spending plan. With such a tight budget, the number of new capital projects, like community centers, approved for this year is expected to be small. "We do need kind of infrastructure right away to address things like youth crime and senior quality of life," said councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite. Wilhoite said when it comes to the community centers, Metro isn't on a level playing field. "I really think the inner-city areas like east Nashville is being developed and being improved at the expense of outer communities," said Wilhoite. In the next few weeks, as the capitol spending plan gets finalized, some wonder if a new center will finally be approved. "A lot of community members have expressed concern about the fact there is no place for youth and seniors to go," said Wilhoite. Metro's capitol spending plan should be finalized in the next few weeks. Building a new community center is expensive and can cost a couple of million dollars. Wilhoite said even if the new center receives partial funding, she would be pleased. Copyright 2008 by WSMV.com. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Got a story idea? E-mail newstips to news@wsmv.com or call the newsroom 24/7 at 615-353-2231.

Metro's Homework Hotline will start back up Monday

Homework Hotline, a free homework help service for students, will resume operation Monday, the first day of school in Metro and other school districts. It is open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. In addition to English, tutors will assist students with homework questions in Spanish, Arabic, Kurdish, Turkmen and Somali. Call 298-6636 or 1-888-868-5777 for help.— NATALIA MIELCZAREKnmielczarek@tennessean.com

Hello District 29 Neighbors:

This is a good initiative. Hope you can attend. Vivian The Antioch and Southeast Nashville community will have its first Southeast Health Fair 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, in the Kmart parking lot, 2491 Murfreesboro Pike. The focus of the free event is Healthy Kids/Healthy Families: promoting the health of children and families. Corporate, government and nonprofit partners will offer health services and information, along with blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, vision and dental screenings. The Metro Nashville Public Health Department, Metro Schools, Amerigroup, Get Fit TN, United Neighborhood Health Services, St Thomas Health Services, Vanderbilt Medical Center (CHAMP will be there for the kids!), Windsor Medicare Extra and 36 participating vendors will be on site to provide screenings, prescription assistance and more.

Nashville Shores to show 'Grease'

BY ANDY HUMBLES AHUMBLES@TENNESSEAN.COM 726-5939 • August 8, 2008 The film Grease will be shown at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at Nashville Shores, 4001 Bell Road in Hermitage, on a 40-foot wide move screen. The dive-in movie event is free for ages 21-over. Coolers and outside food and drink are not permitted in the park. Gates open for the event at 6:30 p.m. and will conclude at 10:30 p.m.The Suntan Lagoon pool will remain open and swimming is permitted. Water slides will be closed.Call 889-7050 or visit www.NashvilleShores.com.

Keep Watching Vivian Wilhoite's Blog

She is working on a contest for the whole community to get involved in. What is the prize you might ask? $100.00.....now we know that everyone can use that..keep watching for details....

Antioch freshmen return 'home,' school adds academies

By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD sblackwood@tennessean.com 259-8268 • August 8, 2008 When classes resume this fall at Antioch High School, "we will feel whole again," said Principal Aimee Wyatt. Wyatt was referring to the return of Antioch freshmen, who had been meeting at J.F. Kennedy Middle School while the new Cane Ridge High School was under construction. With the opening of Cane Ridge High School on Monday, overcrowding at Antioch will be relieved, making room for the Antioch freshmen. "We're excited about them returning," said Wyatt, adding it's like a "homecoming." Wyatt said the freshmen would still have their own space, since one section of the school will house the Antioch Freshman Academy. But they also will have older students to serve as mentors. New Assistant Principal Debbie Booker will oversee the ninth-graders. Changes at Antioch this year include the addition of some Advanced Placement courses; an ACT prep course; and a freshman seminar course to help freshmen make the transition to high school. "We've also added career academies," Wyatt said. "This is the first year of implementation." Previous programs, such as engineering, business, marketing and hospitality, are being converted into career academies. A Web site design course has been added to the business program. Also, said Wyatt, "we've added an agricultural program, broadcasting and graphic communications." Other changes this year include an out-of-school suspension center; the addition of a family community liaison; five new computer labs; and an A+ Lab, "which is where students can go to get credit retrieval if they have failed a class," Wyatt said. The lab is also for those who are simply struggling with course work, she added. Although the school had improved scores in every area, it did not meet Adequate Yearly Progress in algebra under the federal No Child Left Behind benchmarks. At the out-of-school suspension center, students can continue to go to classes while receiving instruction on how to correct their behavior, Wyatt said.

Cole, Una elementary schools build new wings

By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD and ANDY HUMBLES • August 8, 2008 (Tennessean) This fall, Cole Elementary School will start the school year off with new leadership and quite a few new faces in the classrooms. Chad High is the school's new principal. The school also has seven new faculty members. A new assistant principal has yet to be named. New faculty positions consist of two second-grade teachers; two special education teachers; one part-time guidance counselor; one part-time P.E. teacher; and a math specialist. Also, the school is undergoing a remodeling project that includes a new wing and improvements to the cafeteria and offices. "Hopefully, that will eliminate the majority of our portables," said High. Una Elementary School is undergoing a similar project. A new wing with 17 classrooms is under construction for an area in back of the gymnasium. A new computer lab also is opening adjacent to the library. It will have 25 stations. The school has hired an instructional specialist for the lab. Una's principal, Kay Shepard, hopes the new classrooms, which would replace 17 portable buildings, will be ready by next fall.

Davidson County crime log for July 31-Aug. 3, 2008

CRIME LOG These are the most serious calls handled by the Metro police, listed by time, crime reported and address. Some reports may be unfounded. Police calls are listed by police precinct or town. When police cannot immediately determine the location of a crime, the address given is that of the police station or hospital where the crime was reported. Antioch 5:37 p.m., holdup/robbery, 900 block Richards Road South 9:08 a.m., holdup/robbery, 800 block Hamilton Crossings 11:52 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 10600 block Concord Road 2:50 p.m., holdup/robbery, 1800 block Air Lane Drive 3:27 p.m., holdup/robbery, 800 block Hamilton Crossings 5:42 p.m., hazardous leak, 2900 block Hamilton Church Road 10:03 p.m., residential burglary, 2900 block Zermatt Avenue 10:23 p.m., residential burglary, 2400 block Haskell Drive 10:27 p.m., residential burglary, 1300 block Zermatt Avenue Donelson 11:25 p.m., residential burglary, 3000 block Casa Drive Hermitage 5:14 p.m., residential burglary, 6000 block Old Hickory Boulevard 9:19 p.m., residential burglary, 6000 block Old Hickory Boulevard South 6:11 a.m., cutting/stabbing, 1200 block Murfreesboro Pike 8:35 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 14900 block Old Hickory Boulevard 9:56 p.m., residential burglary, 900 block Arbor Creek Way 10:51 p.m., shooting, 1000 block Patricia Drive Antioch 1:23 p.m., residential burglary, 5600 block Deer Valley Trail 3:30 p.m., residential burglary, 1400 block Clapham Court Donelson 1:37 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 100 block McGavock Pike 7:42 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 100 block McGavock Pike Priest Lake 1:07 a.m., residential burglary, 3400 block Towneship Road South 12:20 a.m., residential burglary, 900 block Winthorne Drive 12:20 a.m., holdup/robbery, 600 block Arbor Creek Way 1:14 a.m., residential burglary, 100 block Plus Park Boulevard 2:39 a.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Bell Road 5:03 p.m., residential burglary, 500 block Glastonbury Road Antioch 10:50 a.m., residential burglary, 1300 block Rural Hill Road Hermitage 12:45 p.m., residential burglary, 7000 block Bonnalake Drive South 4:14 p.m., holdup/robbery, 5300 block Hickory Hollow Parkway 10:20 p.m., residential burglary, 2300 block Green Trails Court

Voters go to polls today

THE BALLOT Tennessee voters will choose Democratic and Republican candidates for U.S. House races; decide which Democrat will oppose Republican U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander in November; vote in party primaries for state House and some state Senate seats; and choose five Metro Nashville school board members, the Williamson County sheriff and other county officials. HOW TO VOTE Opening times vary by county, but all close at 7 p.m. Central time. Voters who are in line by 7 p.m. will be permitted to cast ballots. In Davidson County, polls open at 7 a.m. VOTER INFO Contact the Davidson County Election Commission at 862-8800. For other counties, contact information is available at Contact the Davidson County Election Commission at 862-8800. For other counties, contact information is available at http://tnsos.org/elections/election_commissions.php. ACTION LINE To report poll problems and successes, contact Jenny Upchurch at action@tennessean.com or 726-5970. Search ACTION for her blog. ONLINE For last-minute information on the Metro Nashville school board and Williamson County sheriff races, search ELECTIONS for profiles and Q&As with the candidates. Plus, go to Tennessean.com for news updates. After 7 p.m., look for results, video and photos. — MICHAEL CASS and JAIME SARRIO(Tennessean)

Man fatally stabbed at Antioch restaurant

Metro police said that a man came into a restaurant in Antioch Wednesday night to settle a drug debt and ended up fatally stabbing an employee who tried to defuse a confrontation. Suspect caught Metro police spokesman Don Aaron said that a suspect was taken into custody on Interstate 24 after he fled the O'Charley's restaurant at 923 Bell Road in a pickup truck. Police identified David Kimball, 28, whose last known address is in Nashville, as the suspect charged overnight in the slaying case. 'Innocent employee' was killed Aaron gave this account of information that police have gathered:At 9:20 p.m. Wednesday, the suspect came to the restaurant and began banging on an exterior window, evidently attempting to gain the attention of a waiter who, police are told, owed the suspect a "drug debt." The suspect wound up inside the restaurant, where he was confronted by another employee. That person, believed to be one of the cooks, was not on duty but was at the restaurant to socialize with friends. "The innocent employee was attempting to defuse or divert any confrontation" between the suspect and the waiter, Aaron said. The suspect pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed the innocent employee, Aaron said. Victim died at scene Aaron said that 911 was called at 9:30 p.m., and when police and ambulance arrived, the employee, who was in his late 30s, was already deceased inside the restaurant. Witnesses brought after vehicle stopped The suspect fled the restaurant in a red Ford pickup truck, and witnessed provided a very good description to officers, Aaron said. A North Precinct lieutenant and an East Precinct officer spotted a vehicle matching the description as they traveled on I-24 near downtown and stopped it near the James Robertson Parkway exit.Witnesses were brought to that scene and identified the man in the pickup as the individual who stabbed the victim, Aaron said. The suspect, Kimball, was taken to the South Precinct and interviewed. He was charged in night court downtown during the night. A concerned community Aaron acknowledged the community's "Fed Up" rally against crime Tuesday night in which hundreds of people showed their support. Aaron said that the "root cause" of Wednesday night's events was a dispute "between two individuals who knew each other, we are told." There was nothing the community could have done to prevent the actions he said. He reaffirmed the Police Department's commitment to the Antioch and Hickory Hollow communities.At the time of the attack, the restaurant was still open, and about 40 people were inside, Aaron said. No one else was hurt. — LEIGH RAY Leigh Ray can be reached at 615-726-5951 or lray@tennessean.com

Video Of the Fed Up Walk to Hickory Hollow Mall

To watch video from Channel 5 regarding the walk to Hickory Hollow and other Group Activity around our Community. http://www.newschannel5.com/Global/story.asp?S=8795608

Communities Unite To Fight Crime

Channel 5 NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Hundreds of people marched in Antioch and attended a rally targeting youth violence Tuesday. The event was part of the National Night Bishop Joseph Warren Walker, III, senior pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church Out Against Crime observance nationwide. Neighborhood associations and community groups across the country took part in celebrations and special events to mark the 25th annual national observance. Among the events Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas attended was a community wide collaboration in Antioch targeting youth violence. Participants marched along Bell Road and attended a rally at Hickory Hollow Mall. It was a march with a message that attracted hundreds of people. "It's a hard thing to see your community going down and see so many young people being mislead," said Alicia Bell. "To see people wiling to come out means that people are ready to do something, not just talk about it, but really put some programs behind, put some structure behind it," said Bishop Joseph Warren Walker, III, senior pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church, which sponsored the event. Metro Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite and her constituents, Hickory Hollow Mall, Regions Bank and Americhoice were the other major sponsors. Community and faith partners included Iglesia Monte Los Olivos, Antioch United Methodist Church as well as Metro Schools, Oasis Center and the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The latest juvenile crime statistics show the number of juveniles arrested for robbery is down 18 percent compared to this time last year. Juvenile arrests for violent crimes are down 28 percent. "But we've got to be truthful with the public, with the families," Serpas said. "Because the children who are still being arrested for violent crime, they're still very violent kids." "We're all in this together," said Nashville Mayor Karl Dean. "We're a community and we need to work together to improve schools and to improve public safety." Elsewhere in Middle Tennessee, people gathered to also observe National Night Out Against Crime within their communities. Police officers and firefighters joined area neighbors in Stanford Estates on Downey Meade Court in the Donelson area. There were activities for children including a bike parade. But the heat forced one city to cancel their activities. The Cookeville Police Department planned an event at their headquarters. The department plans to reschedule, but an alternate date wasn't announced Tuesday.

Groups Mark National Night Out Against Crime

Here are some of the pictures from the walk that started at Media Play and ended at the Hickory Hollow Mall.

Photos by Mindy Schwartz

Citywide parties seek to unite citizens, police against crime

By KATE HOWARD • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • August 5, 2008 Post a CommentRecommend Print this page E-mail this article Share this article: Del.icio.us Facebook Digg Reddit Newsvine What’s this? Communities across Nashville and the nation will be taking to the streets tonight in a show of force against crime. It's the 25th annual National Night Out Against Crime, and the 14th year Nashvillians have taken part with block parties around the city. There are 45 parties planned in Nashville alone, sponsored by community groups and neighborhood watches hoping to foster a better sense of togetherness — with one another and the police. "It's a good opportunity for people in the community to network, so to speak, with the police, fire department and merchants in the area as well," said Marty Lang, vice president of the Dickerson Road Merchants Association and a sponsor of the celebration today at 4 p.m. at Shwab Elementary School. "The most important thing is giving people and their kids the opportunity to meet the police and realize they're the good guys." The Shwab event, the unofficial kickoff and one of the city's largest, may see up to 1,200 people stop by for food, children's games and camaraderie. Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas said the department will be represented at each of the events, with patrol officers, commanders and recruiters making appearances, as well as departments like the mounted patrol and aviation. "This is an opportunity for the neighborhoods of Nashville and the police to come together and celebrate that we're making great strides in reducing crime," said Serpas, who will attend at least two events tonight. "But even though we're well into our fifth year of crime reduction, not everyone has felt that reduction yet." One neighborhood that Serpas and community leaders say is better than its reputation is using the night to bring attention to a movement against teen violence. Antioch leaders are holding a "Fed Up" march, ending with a rally in the Hickory Hollow Mall parking lot. "We want to bring the entire Antioch community to fellowship as one, and also let Nashville and the community know that they are fed up about this silliness, these crimes, and also recognize what some of the causes are," said Darrell Walker, overseer of the children and youth ministry at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. The Hickory Hollow event will be heavy on participation from service agencies, offering help to parents struggling to reign in their teenagers, and entertainment to bring families together. Walker hopes it will give purpose to those in need of assistance and serve as a positive example that Antioch is making changes. If nothing else, the community gathering is a means for the city to speak in one voice that crime is not welcome , Serpas said. "The social underpinning of reduced crime is active neighborhoods," Serpas said. "The criminals will find someplace else to go. We can control our streets together." Contact Kate Howard at 615-726-8968 or kahoward@tennessean.com.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATEND "FED UP" NATIONAL NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME?

Top Ten Reasons you should attend:

1. to help your community
2. to help your community
3. to help your community
4. to help your community
5. to help your community
6. to help your community
7. to help your community
8. to help your community
9. to help your community
10. to help your community

SEE YOU ALL THERE!

Hope to see you all there,

Vivian

Davidson County crime log for July 24-27, 2008

CRIME LOG These are the most serious calls handled by the Metro police, listed by time, crime reported and address. Some reports may be unfounded. Police calls are listed by police precinct or town. When police cannot immediately determine the location of a crime, the address given is that of the police station or hospital where the crime was reported. Antioch 4:27 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 900 block Richards Road 8:10 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 900 block Richards Road 8:37 a.m., holdup/robbery, 2500 block Murfreesboro Pike 11:25 a.m., holdup/robbery, 2600 block Murfreesboro Pike 10:29 p.m., holdup/robbery, 100 block Hickory Highlands Drive 10:33 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Piccadilly Row Central 12:04 a.m., shooting, 700 block South 12th Street 9:42 a.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Murfreesboro Pike 12:07 p.m., residential burglary, 300 block Interstate Drive 1:20 p.m., residential burglary, 1000 block West Eastland Avenue 8:28 p.m., holdup/robbery, 600 block South 11th Street Donelson 6:30 p.m., holdup/robbery, 10 block Century Blvd. 9:50 p.m., holdup/robbery, 900 block Allen Road South 2:27 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 1000 block Old Tree Court 10:40 p.m., holdup/robbery, 600 block Bell Road Antioch 12:59 a.m., holdup/robbery, 800 block Richards Road 2:16 a.m., holdup/robbery, 1100 block Bell Road Donelson 3:57 a.m., holdup/robbery, Donelson Pike and Hangar Lane 4:45 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2800 block Lebanon Pike Hermitage 12:57 a.m., rape, Shute Lane 9:24 a.m., residential burglary, 5600 block Old Hickory Boulevard South 7:29 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Bell Road Antioch 2:26 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2400 block Murfreesboro Pike Hermitage 4:55 p.m., residential burglary, 500 block Arbor Lake Boulevard 7:19 p.m., residential burglary, 3300 block Lakeside Place South 2:07 a.m., holdup/robbery, 700 block Space Park South Drive 2:48 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 400 block Metroplex Drive 4:18 p.m., residential burglary, 5900 block Pettus Road 5:36 p.m., residential burglary, 600 block Bell Road 8:57 p.m., holdup/robbery, 1000 block Murfreesboro PikeTusculum Hermitage 6:34 a.m., residential burglary, 4700 block Lebanon Pike 11:10 a.m., residential burglary, 1000 block Arbor Lake Boulevard 10:19 p.m., holdup/robbery, 300 block Monaco Drive 11:50 p.m., cutting/stabbing, 900 block Brooke Valley Court South 12:09 a.m., residential burglary, 1000 block Goodbar Drive 7:13 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 1600 block Murfreesboro Pike 5:47 p.m., residential burglary, 6600 block Holt Road 7:52 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Bell Road

Wooded Rapist suspect set for trial

By CHRIS ECHEGARAY • Staff Writer (Tennessean)• July 31, 2008 The man accused of being the Wooded Rapist is now scheduled to go to trial in April 2009 in Davidson County Criminal Court. Judge Seth Norman will conduct the trial. Robert Jason Burdick, 38, is suspected in at least 13 rapes and faces related charges stemming from attacks between 1994 and 2008 in Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties. He has been held without bail since his May 1 arrest on Interstate 24 in Rutherford County. Burdick is charged with seven counts of aggravated rape, two counts of attempted aggravated rape, two counts of aggravated burglary, especially aggravated kidnapping and attempted rape in Davidson County.

What's new at Southeast Davidson schools?

By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD sblackwood@tennessean.com 259-8268 • August 1, 2008 New principal takes over at Apollo Middle As the new principal of Apollo Middle School, Ron Woodard has three main items on his agenda. "We're hoping to increase student achievement, parental involvement and community support," he said. The school did not meet average yearly progress in reading or math under the federal No Child Left Behind benchmarks. Woodard, who was previously an assistant principal at Maplewood High School, said he would be focusing on ways to make sure that doesn't happen again. "We hope to use a variety of methods to meet our goals," he said. "The first step is to build a sense of pride and continue in the great tradition this school was founded upon." At Thomas Edison and Mt. View elementary schools, Principals Ronald Powe and Kim Fowler are hoping to raise the bar for their students. First, said Powe, following in the tradition of the school's namesake, "I want to highlight the fact that we have a science and math fair." This year, though, "we want to enhance our emphasis on science and math," he said. "We want to take it to another level, not just within the school, but to competition at the district and state levels." Powe said there would be interventions, not only for students who are not meeting the benchmarks in reading, language arts and math, but also for students who are exceeding them. "We want to bring the floor up, but we also want to raise the ceiling," he said. Powe said the school would be using TCAP and other test scores "to validate our teaching, but also to help us hone in on areas where we might not perform as effectively as we would like to." A change for both Edison and Mt. View this year is Mt. View lost some of its English Language Learners to Edison. Previously, ELL students were assigned to certain schools that served as ELL centers. Now, they go to the schools for which they are zoned. Powe said some faculty members are being trained to work with ELL students. "We want to welcome parents and students who traditionally have gone to an ELL center," he said. Apollo Middle School Address: 631 Richards Road Phone: 333-5025 Web site: www.apolloms.mnps.org Principal: Ron Woodard Enrollment: 450-500 students What's new for 2008-09: Apollo has a new principal and three new faculty members for science, art and language arts. Mascot: Astros School colors: Red, white and blue Optional shirt colors: Red, blue and green Orientation: 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Aug. 4 Thomas Edison Elementary School Address: 6130 Mt. View Road Phone: 501-8800 Web site: www.thomasedisones.mnps.org Principal: Ronald Powe Enrollment: 600-625 students What's new for 2008-09: Edison has a new assistant principal, Rebecca Welch, because former assistant principal, Robin Shumate, is now principal at Lakeview Elementary. The school also has a new reading specialist, ELL teacher, music teacher, band teacher, second-grade teacher and first-grade teacher. Mascot: Lightbulb Motto: "Where Bright Futures Grow" School colors: Red and yellow Optional shirt colors: Red, yellow, black and pink Mt. View Elementary School Address: 3820 Murfreesboro Road Phone: 641-9393 Principal: Kim Fowler Enrollment: about 850 students What's new for 2008-09: Mt. View has a new math specialist; three new fourth-grade teachers; a new PTA president; and a new PENCIL partner, Vastland Realty. The school offered the SMART program for kindergartners last year but will expand it this year to include first-graders. The program, which is based on the multiple intelligences theory, uses different learning stations that require kids to use their motor and sensory skills. The school will offer BrainPop, an online animated educational site in English and Spanish that helps students with science, reading, writing, social studies and health. Parents will be able to access the program from home. The school also has a new computer lab, and all classrooms will have LCD projectors. Mascot: Mountain lions School colors: Green and white Optional shirt colors: Green, red, yellow and pink Preview night: 5:30-7 p.m., Aug. 7

Shoppers line up for tax-free sales

State's weak economy endangers holiday By HARRIET VAUGHAN • Staff Writer • August 2, 2008 Shopper Michelle Crouthamel has a one-track mind: load the kids and shopping bags in the car and hit the next store to finish out her tax-free weekend shopping before the big crowds come out. This run-and-gun style of shopping is common for thousands of well-rehearsed shopperstaking advantage of Tennessee's third August holiday, whichallows shoppers to skip the sales tax on most clothing, school supplies, computers and other back-to-school necessities. "It's fabulous," Crouthamel said. While shoppers save millions of dollars during the August tax-free weekend, the state economy takes an $8 million-$10 million hit. The state takes the brunt of sales tax exemptions, since local governments are reimbursed for all losses accrued during the tax-free break. August is the more successful of the state's twotax-free holiday weekends; the othertax-exempt weekend is in April. The financial hit wasn't a problem until this fiscal year, when Tennessee's economy has taken a turn for the worse. "Tennessee is not unique in the slowing of the national economy, and there is a decline in the amount of sales tax, franchise and excise tax being collected," said Sophie Moery, spokeswoman for the Tennessee Department of Revenue. As a result of the tight economy, legislators did not approve an April 2009 tax-free weekend. Unlike the August shopping holiday, which was mandated to occur every August in time for back-to-school, the April holiday must be approved by legislators the year before. Now, the outlook for the August tax break is also uncertain. Gov. Phil Bredesen, who introduced the law in 2005, recently expressed reservations over the sales tax holiday. Amid a scurry to trim 2,300 employees from the state's payroll, every dollar coming into the state helps. Bredesen told reporters last week that if he had the ability to call it off to save jobs, he would. To make that happen, the Legislature would have to pass a law reversing the August tax-free weekend. The uncertainty of the sales-tax holiday is bad news for teacher Annette Campbell, who has 19 years of teaching under her belt. "It needs to stay. Whatever measures need to be taken to ensure that the holiday stays need to happen," she said. "Once a year is wonderful, but if we can keep it as often as we can, then that's a blessing." Like other Metro teachers, Campbell, a special education teacher at Whites Creek High, receives $200 to spend on classroom and teaching supplies. Each year she spends an additional $300 out of pocket, an act common to teachers. Campbell and a fellow teacher buy additional school supplies, books and uniforms for students whose parents can't afford their basic school essentials. She and other teachers at Whites Creek take advantage of both shopping holidays to help stagger their spending. "Any time that we as teachers and parents have an opportunity to save money to help educate our children, we do it," said Campbell. News of the canceled spring tax-free weekend is hitting Tennessee Target stores hard. Store manager Jason Gordon says the August tax-free weekend is the store's biggest shopping time next to Christmas. Managers at the Charlotte Pike location doubled their staff and spent additional hours preparing the store for shoppers. "We see an increase in sales compared to any normal weekend," said Gordon

What's new at Southeast Davidson schools?

By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD sblackwood@tennessean.com 259-8268 • August 1, 2008 New principal takes over at Apollo Middle As the new principal of Apollo Middle School, Ron Woodard has three main items on his agenda. "We're hoping to increase student achievement, parental involvement and community support," he said. The school did not meet average yearly progress in reading or math under the federal No Child Left Behind benchmarks. Woodard, who was previously an assistant principal at Maplewood High School, said he would be focusing on ways to make sure that doesn't happen again. "We hope to use a variety of methods to meet our goals," he said. "The first step is to build a sense of pride and continue in the great tradition this school was founded upon." At Thomas Edison and Mt. View elementary schools, Principals Ronald Powe and Kim Fowler are hoping to raise the bar for their students. First, said Powe, following in the tradition of the school's namesake, "I want to highlight the fact that we have a science and math fair." This year, though, "we want to enhance our emphasis on science and math," he said. "We want to take it to another level, not just within the school, but to competition at the district and state levels." Powe said there would be interventions, not only for students who are not meeting the benchmarks in reading, language arts and math, but also for students who are exceeding them. "We want to bring the floor up, but we also want to raise the ceiling," he said. Powe said the school would be using TCAP and other test scores "to validate our teaching, but also to help us hone in on areas where we might not perform as effectively as we would like to." A change for both Edison and Mt. View this year is Mt. View lost some of its English Language Learners to Edison. Previously, ELL students were assigned to certain schools that served as ELL centers. Now, they go to the schools for which they are zoned. Powe said some faculty members are being trained to work with ELL students. "We want to welcome parents and students who traditionally have gone to an ELL center," he said. Apollo Middle School Address: 631 Richards Road Phone: 333-5025 Web site: www.apolloms.mnps.org Principal: Ron Woodard Enrollment: 450-500 students What's new for 2008-09: Apollo has a new principal and three new faculty members for science, art and language arts. Mascot: Astros School colors: Red, white and blue Optional shirt colors: Red, blue and green Orientation: 9 a.m.-noon Monday, Aug. 4 Thomas Edison Elementary School Address: 6130 Mt. View Road Phone: 501-8800 Web site: www.thomasedisones.mnps.org Principal: Ronald Powe Enrollment: 600-625 students What's new for 2008-09: Edison has a new assistant principal, Rebecca Welch, because former assistant principal, Robin Shumate, is now principal at Lakeview Elementary. The school also has a new reading specialist, ELL teacher, music teacher, band teacher, second-grade teacher and first-grade teacher. Mascot: Lightbulb Motto: "Where Bright Futures Grow" School colors: Red and yellow Optional shirt colors: Red, yellow, black and pink Mt. View Elementary School Address: 3820 Murfreesboro Road Phone: 641-9393 Principal: Kim Fowler Enrollment: about 850 students What's new for 2008-09: Mt. View has a new math specialist; three new fourth-grade teachers; a new PTA president; and a new PENCIL partner, Vastland Realty. The school offered the SMART program for kindergartners last year but will expand it this year to include first-graders. The program, which is based on the multiple intelligences theory, uses different learning stations that require kids to use their motor and sensory skills. The school will offer BrainPop, an online animated educational site in English and Spanish that helps students with science, reading, writing, social studies and health. Parents will be able to access the program from home. The school also has a new computer lab, and all classrooms will have LCD projectors. Mascot: Mountain lions School colors: Green and white Optional shirt colors: Green, red, yellow and pink Preview night: 5:30-7 p.m., Aug. 7