Police open mall office

Hickory Hollow work station helps recruiting, safety By Suzanne Normand Blackwood • THE TENNESSEAN • November 28, 2008 The Metro Police Department and Hickory Hollow Mall recently celebrated a partnership that would make police presence at the mall permanent. The celebration recognized the opening of the Metro Police Department Recruiting Center/Office Work Station inside the mall. The center is on the upper level of the Sears wing across from the mall's food court. "Any time you have police visibility, it's a good thing," said Mayor Karl Dean, who attended the celebration. "We've always been concerned about protecting the residents of Antioch, but this is a visible demonstration of that concern." Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas said it serves as a good example of "how we're going to continue to build safety in Antioch." The center will be used for recruitment and will provide space where officers can complete reports and do administrative duties. Mall manager Matt Leiser said police would be handing out recruitment literature throughout the day and answering questions concerning law enforcement careers. They also have a television monitor that will show recruitment videos throughout the day. "It gives the police department the opportunity to interface with the youths," Leiser said. "The more interaction they can have with the youth, the better." Leiser said the mall has gotten positive feedback from people who are aware of the center. Phyllis Richardson, 76, said she and her husband James, 80, frequently visit the mall just to get out of the house. Her husband is disabled. "It's good for him," she said. "We eat lunch here three or four times a week." Richardson said having police presence at the mall on a permanent basis makes her feel safer. However, she said, she feels that the mall's management and employees have done a good job at keeping the mall safe already. One day her husband fell, and some of the employees from Styles barbershop helped him up, she said. Richardson said she has friends who work at the mall who talk about crime in the area. "I'm cautious," she said. But, she added, it's not just Hickory Hollow. Other malls have problems with crime, too, she said.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE

The following United Way organizations provide certain types of emergency help: >> Bethlehem Centers of Nashville, 1417 Charlotte Ave., Joyce Searcy, 329-3386. www.Bethlehemcenters.org>> Catholic Charities of Tennessee, 30 White Bridge Rd., William Sinclair, 352-3087, www.cctenn.org>> Family and Children's Service. 201 23rd Ave. N., 327-0833>> Ladies of Charity Welfare Agency, 2212 State St., 327-3430>> Martha O' Bryan Center, 711 S. Seventh St., 254-1791, www.marthaobryan.org>> Matthew 25 Inc., 625 Benton Ave. 383-9577>> Mental Health Association of Middle Tennessee, 2416 21st Ave. S., #201, 269-5355, www.ichope.com>> Nashville CARES, 501 Brick Church Park Drive, 259-4866, www.nashvillecares.org>> Oasis Center Inc. 1221 16th Ave. S., 327-4455, www.oasiscenter.org>> Old Hickory Christian Community Outreach, 209 Bridgeway Ave., Old Hickory, 847-4996>> Park Center, 801 12th Ave. S., 242-3576, www.parkcenternashville.org>> Project Return, 1200 Division St., # 200, 327-9654, www.projectreturninc.org>> Salvation Army, 631 Dickerson Pike, 242-0411, www.uss.salvationarmy.org>> Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, 331 Great Circle Road, 329-3491, www.secondharvestnashville.org>> FiftyForward, 3511 Belmont Blvd., 463-2266, www.fiftyforward.org>> St. Luke's Community House, 5601 New York Ave., 350-7893, stlukescommunityhouse.org>> The Arc of Davidson County, 111 N. Wilson Blvd., 321-5699, www.arcdc.org>> YWCA Domestic Violence Center, 242-1199, www.ywcanashville.com

More people need help with utilities

By Angela Patterson • THE TENNESSEAN • November 26, 2008 Last year, almost 5,000 people got help paying their utility bills from the Metro Action Commission. In just the first four months of this fiscal year, the commission has served 4,941 people with its Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, signaling a growing number of people who need help in Davidson County. As unemployment rises and temperatures drop, both the Metro Action Commission and Metro Social Services are hearing more requests for assistance, many from people who have never had to ask for help before. And while funding for these agencies and their programs is currently stable, no one knows if the amount of dollars and resources will be enough to meet the demand in the months to come. Services in demand When someone calls Metro government seeking any kind of financial help, the Metro Action Commission is the first point of contact. In addition to helping with utility bills through the assistance program, the agency also can offer aid to those who've recently lost their jobs, had an illness or gone through some other situation that has resulted in financial hardship. Most of the programs are federally funded and therefore have stringent income guidelines. To qualify for most programs, the applicant's income must be at or below 125 percent of the poverty level, which equals about a $26,500 yearly income for a family of four. To receive the once-yearly utility bill assistance, the person's utilities cannot have been disconnected. It may take four to six weeks for applicants to receive the help. The agency's public information officer, Lisa Gallon, said the staff has been seeing many more working families and seniors requesting services for the first time — people who had been able to make ends meet by themselves. Because of the increase in demand, Gallon said, federal funds are already running low for this fiscal year. "We just received word Tennessee would be getting $80 million in additional funds from the Department of Human Services for the energy assistance program, and we're anxious to see what Davidson County's portion will be," Gallon said. "We'll see in the next couple of weeks what we'll get." The Metro Action Commission also gets about $20,000 from Nashville Electric Service's energy assistance programs, as well as $350,000 from Metro government for the Community Service Assistance Program, which helps those who don't qualify for the more income-restricted programs with housing and water bills. "The federal poverty guidelines are pretty stringent, and it doesn't capture all the families who are in trouble," Gallon said. "Having those funds makes a significant impact on what we're able to do for working families. "We know that there is no cookie-cutter mold anymore for who needs help. We try to find as many resources as possible for those who are in trouble." If the Metro Action Commission can't help, Metro Social Services may be able to step in. Help with housing Metro Social Services generally works with people who don't qualify for the Metro Action Commission, or are no longer eligible. Social Services doesn't provide financial assistance, but links people in need with community partners who can lend a hand. One of the strongest relationships is with Rooftop Nashville, a consortium of 30 churches that provide housing assistance. "Most of the applications we get are for rent," said Ouida Davis Cole, who acts as a liaison between Social Services and Rooftop Nashville. "Lately we've been seeing a lot more requests for help with mortgages. Some also have utility requests; probably about a quarter ask for utility assistance." Applicants must have some reasonable justification as to why they got behind, and be able to show they'll be able to pay in the future. But it's not just those who are indigent looking for assistance. Like the Action Commission, Metro Social Services has seen many middle-class people needing help to get by. "Many people are on tight budgets, and any little hiccup could cause you to get behind," Davis Cole said. Metro Social Services Executive Director Gerri Robinson has seen the caseloads in her agency rise, and it raises concerns. "We did have a budget cut last year, and we've just tried to do more with less," Robinson said. "As for our clients, most of the job growth in Davidson County is in the service industry, and you can't do a lot on a McDonald's salary. People are paying more for food and, until recently, gas. The dollar just doesn't go as far. "I'm greatly concerned about the need for people to look to us as a safety net, especially when that net is shrinking."

Metro schools try to avoid layoffs

By Jaime Sarrio • THE TENNESSEAN • November 26, 2008 The weak economy has been aggravating government agencies for months, but Metro Nashville schools are only now beginning to feel the pinch. The school board met Tuesday to discuss how to cut $11.1 million from its current budget to cope with a lagging sales tax revenue stream that shows no signs of picking up. This is after the district this week began a hiring freeze and ordered a stop to overtime pay, except for emergencies. Board members said they want to avoid laying off employees or reducing the quality of student services, but in a district where the work force makes up 85 percent of costs, it is not clear how those goals will be achieved. "Laying off people would be the last resort," said Chris Henson, interim director of schools. "We're talking about people's livelihood." Heavy-handed alternatives such as dipping into the district's savings account, trimming operations or implementing pay reductions for employees are being considered, though each carries consequences. Using the reserve funds to get through this year would set the district up for trouble in future years if sales tax collections continue to dip. Reducing costs would require the district to trim services at a time when it is trying to do more to improve test scores and climb out from under state control. The hiring freezes do not affect essential teaching and principal positions, which are protected by state law. But the district could increase class sizes in some places so fewer teachers would be needed. Cutting some employee salaries would have to be negotiated with the teachers union, whose members oppose the measure. "I don't see how the board would have any success recruiting teachers if we reduce teacher salaries," said Erick Huth, president of the Metro Nashville Education Association, which represents Nashville teachers. "Employee morale is already so low, to reduce salaries would be devastating." Board faces shortfall Board members will meet next Monday to firm up plans to deal with the revenue shortfall. They expect to have a decision as soon as mid-December, said Steve Glover, chairman of the finance committee. Nashville schools have largely been spared suffering from the lagging economy while school districts across the country, and higher education programs in Tennessee, have made bold cuts to cope with less revenue. This summer, Mayor Karl Dean required all Metro departments to make cuts except schools and public safety. The district was allowed to remove some money from reserves to make improvements. But a large portion of the district's revenue comes from sales tax dollars, and people are spending less than projected. That means the district, and other departments, budgeted for more money than they will collect.

School board may take on mayor

Members want own lawyer to advise on takeover issues By Jaime Sarrio • THE TENNESSEAN • November 26, 2008 Metro school board members are positioning themselves for a possible showdown with the mayor for control of Nashville's public schools. They will vote at the next school board meeting on whether to stop using Metro Legal Department lawyers, who report to the mayor, and hire an independent lawyer to advise them on takeover issues. This comes after Metro Legal attorneys confirmed that they answered Mayor Karl Dean's questions about taking over the school district. "The school board has the right to do whatever they feel is in their best interest," mayoral spokeswoman Janel Lacy said when contacted after the meeting. "Mayor Dean is focused on improving our schools and doing what's best for our students." If board members vote to hire another attorney, it would be the school board's first split with Metro Legal, said Mary Johnston, who has represented the school district since 1996. At Tuesday's school board meeting, members said they are concerned Metro Legal has a conflict of interest because attorneys represent the board and the mayor, who was law director before running for the city's top office. After winning the post he appointed Sue Cain to oversee the department. The mayor this fall said he is preparing for a takeover should the district again fail to meet academic requirements under state law. The district is partially controlled by the state because of failing test scores and is without a director of schools. Board member Mark North, who represents the Madison area, said he will make a motion at the next meeting to hire an independent attorney. "We don't have a choice but to stand our ground," North said. "We were elected to do a job and we're going to do it." Johnston confirmed that she had been asked questions about a possible takeover. Board members said they were uncomfortable knowing she would be pressed to share information with the mayor as the process progressed. "I still have a job," Johnston said when asked for comment. The mayor has hired two new education advisers and said he plans to add more. He is raising millions in private money to fund pet school reform projects and plans to meet with New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who assumed control of the school district there in 2002. The mayor also announced plans last week to consolidate management of school libraries with the public library system by July 1. Board members said it's time to start preparing a defense. "I would like us to entertain our next step in our defense of a possible takeover," said board member Gracie Porter, who represents East Nashville. "It is somewhat disturbing knowing that one of us or all of us could be dismantled. We are elected officials." State education agents this summer made drastic changes to the district's top personnel and principal lineup, and will have even more control next year if students fail to meet benchmarks again. The state would then have the authority to scrap the school board and appoint a new governing body, a decision that would ultimately come down to the governor or require a change in the law. The board is scheduled to meet finalists for the director of schools position early next month.

Update on Antioch Chamber of Commerce

Antioch Area Chamber of Commerce directorship will remain open until November 30, 2008 at 5p.m. For more information contact Antioch Area Chamber of Commerce at 615.360.8284

Some people that were Present for the Chamber of Commerce Meeting

Susan S. Lafferty - Attorney of Law Craig Wells - Branch Manager of Suntrust Bank Mary Capenter - Pastor Celebrate life Community Church Maria I Arbelaez - Financial Service Representative - Suntrust Bank Roseanna Smith D - DPS Account Representative - RJ Young Corporate Office Andy Rutherford - General Manager - O'Charley's Lora Medina - Retail Business Manager - Cricket Communications, Inc.

A Luncheon Was Held for the Launching of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce

Celebrating the Announcement of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce Itinerary Meet and greet Seating of Directors Prayer - Pastor Carpenter - Living world Community Church Welcome Words from the Founder - Caresasa Greer Introduction of Directors Letter from Council Woman - Vivian Wilhoite Words of support from Councilman Sam Coleman Antioch Area Chamber of Commerce - Denetrius Jackson Presentation of Certificates - Gabrielle McWhoter - to new members Closing - Robert T. Crawford,membership Consultant For more information or to become a member - contact: Antioch Chamber of Commerce 325 Rural Hill Road Suite 6 Nashville, TN 37217

Precinct-Based Undercover Detectives Charged 117 Persons This Week

Undercover Detectives Deserves Praise! Below is a press release from Metro Police Department showing, by precinct, the recent accomplishment of undercover detectives. Just this week only, underdercover detectives charged 117 persons. Keep up the good work! Gratefully, Vivian November 21, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Undercover detectives, assigned to each of the department's six precincts, charged 117 persons this week with mostly drug and prostitution offenses as the result of investigations in various Nashville neighborhoods. South Precinct detectives charged 25 persons as the result of investigations on 2nd and 4th Avenues South, Trimble Street, Whispering Hills Drive, and Tampa Drive. Seized were 16.2 grams of cocaine, seven grams of marijuana, one vehicle, and $1,433 cash. Hermitage Precinct detectives charged 20 persons as the result of investigations on Old Hickory Boulevard, Lafayette Street, Elm Hill Pike, and Murfreesboro Pike. Seized were 94 grams of cocaine, two grams of marijuana, two weapons, and $1,057 cash. West Precinct detectives charged 22 persons as the result of investigations on Charlotte Pike at 19th Avenue North, Jefferson Street, Dickerson Pike, Premiere Drive, Hynes Street, and Archer Street. Seized were 8.5 pounds of marijuana, 31 pounds of khat, 144 grams of cocaine, 30 Lortab pills, 20 Xanax pills, eight morphine pills, eight Oxycontin pills, two vehicles, one weapon, and $562 cash. North Precinct detectives charged 18 persons as the result of investigations on Whites Creek Pike, Trinity Lane, Marlin Pass, Albion Street, 43rd Avenue North, Brick Church Pike, Enloe Street, and Fern Avenue. Seized were 47.1 grams of cocaine, 570.79 grams of marijuana, 56.5 various pills, four weapons, and $7,562 cash. East Precinct detectives charged eleven persons as the result of investigations on Merry Street, Brick Church Pike, Hampton Street, Apex Street at Granada Avenue, and Dickerson Pike at Dellway Villa Road. Seized were nine grams of marijuana, .2 grams of cocaine, and .2 grams of heroin. Central Precinct detectives charged 21 persons as the result of investigations on 8th Avenue South at Drexel and Division Streets, Jefferson Street, Lafayette Street, Rosa Parks Boulevard, 9th Avenue North, and Whispering Hills Drive. Seized were 159 grams of cocaine, one weapon, one vehicle, and $1,162 cash. Persons suspecting drug activity in their neighborhoods are urged to call the police department's 244-DOPE hotline. Callers to the hotline can remain anonymous.

Truancy Round-up at McGavock High School

Commander Richter reports the following success roundup. Subject: Hermitage A-Shift, Flex Unit - 11/20/2008 Report Submitted by: ST Mcwright, Jon W, Shift Change Supervisor: n/a Date: Thursday 11/20/2008 Precinct: Hermitage Detail: A-Shift, Flex Unit Major Event Information * Comments * Today, the Hermitage Flex A-Team spent the shift focusing on the juvenile problem of truancy around McGavock High School (3150 McGavock Pk). 15 subjects (12 juveniles and 3 adults) were charged with 18 misdemeanor offenses and 3 warrants/petitions were served. The types of charges and number of each are as follows: (9) Loitering During School Hours, (2) Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, (2) Simple possession/marijuana, (1) Drug Paraphernalia, (3) Apprehended runaway petitions, (1) Trespass, and (3) Driving on Revoked.

Tying Nashville's Schools and City Libraries Together

District 29 Neighbors and Friends: Great News! Mayor Karl Dean and the Donna Nicely, Director of Metro Government Libraries, has developed the idea of tying our school libraries with the city's libraries. As outlined in Mayor Dean's letter, the benefits are tremendous for our school children, teachers, support staff and to families. Congratulations to Mayor Dean and Mrs. Donna Nicely for such a great idea. Vivian Tennessean Metro Nashville plans to start consolidating management of its school libraries with its public library system by July 1, Mayor Karl Dean said Thursday in a letter to the school district’s acting director. The consolidation, which will focus first on having the Nashville Public Library buy high schools’ books and other materials, will bring the strengths of a “world-class library system” to the schools, Dean wrote to Chris Henson. Dean said the change would save money, improve quality control over library collections and make checkout systems more efficient. “This is an opportunity to develop the best school library and public library system in the country, and our students and community deserve nothing less,” the mayor wrote. Donna Nicely, the library system’s director, said her staff would start working on the project in earnest in January.

Nashville Electric Service Launches Free Online Billing

Hello District 29: Here's another way you can pay and view your NES bill. Gratefully, Vivian NES is launching a new e-bill option. I’m excited about this opportunity, as we have a significant number of NES customers who have requested this service for years. Under the NES e-bill program, customers who choose to participate can receive their bills electronically, check their bills amounts online, access up to 24 months’ bill history, and make payments from their bank accounts…all for free. You’ll find information (and helpful links) below.

Antioch targets dropouts

By Angela Patterson • THE TENNESSEAN • November 19, 2008 If you walk into Antioch High and some other Metro high schools after the 2:05 p.m. dismissal, you may see that, for some students, school's still in. Some students are participating in credit recovery, an after-school version of summer school in which students take compressed classes to gain credits for classes they have failed. It's just one of the strategies Metro principals are using to increase their graduation rates. Data from the 2008 School Report Card, a study released by the Tennessee Department of Education, shows that some Metro high schools had as few as 65 percent of seniors receive a diploma in May 2008, a far cry from the state's graduation rate goal of 90 percent. Principals hope that a combination of student tracking, intervention and instruction will not only make sure students graduate on time, but they're prepared for life after high school when they do. Most of the tactics principals are using to increase graduation rates are the same methods used to achieve No Child Left Behind (NCLB) standards, because when students are making progress in the classroom year after year, it moves them closer to on-time graduation. Academic coaches added Antioch High School Principal Aimee Wyatt said moving to an alternating block schedule so students can earn eight credits a year instead of six and offering intervention courses to help struggling students will help raise their NCLB standing. It should also indirectly help students acquire the credits they need to graduate. "We've added a literacy coach and math coach to work with teachers and students," said Wyatt said, whose school has a 75 percent graduation rate. "Our AVID program concentrates on goal setting so students understand why they need to graduate and what they can do after high school. Our advisory program has also assisted with goal setting and giving students another adult with whom to form positive relationships." Other principals are also using administrative functions to help students finish school. Hunters Lane Principal Susan Kessler said her staff is developing individualized plans with a credit recovery component for students who are behind. Hillwood Principal Steve Chauncy has a graduation coach who monitors seniors' transcripts and credits to make sure they're on track, and helps them gain credits if they're not. Importance of tracking kids Overton Principal Shuler Pelham, whose school has a 79 percent graduation rate, said he's stressed the importance of tracking students' credits as well as their attendance. "You can have a student that's not attending. If you withdraw the student, he counts as a dropout, which negatively affects your graduation rate," Pelham said. "But if you locate the student and find he's at another school, then he's a transfer, which doesn't affect your graduation rate. "There's a real emphasis on tracking where the students are, and Nashville has a high mobility rate, so this is a chore." Pelham said in all the approaches taken to raise the graduation rate, there haven't been any that haven't worked at all. "But you do have to consider the effectiveness of some of your strategies versus the time it took to carry them out," Pelham said. "It's usually years down the line before you really see a payoff for some of these things." Transportation needs If they had unlimited resources, some principals know they'd invest in more costly methods to raise the graduation rate. Wyatt said they'd consider virtual school, a program in which students could enroll in courses Antioch High doesn't offer, or ones that conflict with their school schedule, allowing the students who fall behind to make up courses quickly and get feedback from the teacher in a more one-on-one setting. Pelham said additional transportation would have to be offered to take students home after afternoon tutoring. "We have (teachers and tutors) wanting to come after school, but many (students), especially those who are economically disadvantaged, don't have a way to get home if they stay," Pelham said. "Some students need more than what we can provide from 7:05-2:05 every day." But other principals would like to offer more opportunities to connect with positive role models. Chauncy said he wished he had more parental involvement as well as people in advisory roles at school. Kessler agreed, saying that students who do not graduate from school usually have become detached from the school experience somewhere along the way. "What we know about student success in school, we know that students need to feel that their work is valued," Kessler said. "(they need to know) that there is meaning to what they are learning by applying it to their lives both now and in the future, and they need to feel connected to school by having a meaningful relationship with an adult, a peer group, or activities. "We are working hard at Hunters Lane to ensure that all kids have that high level of connection to Hunters Lane. It is not only good for the graduation rate. It is good for kids."

13 students cited for Hunters Lane brawl

By Kate Howard • THE TENNESSEAN • November 20, 2008 About 100 students in a crushing swell were pushing and shoving, some fighting and others throwing up menacing gang signs, in the hallway of Hunters Lane High School. When it all died down, after watching some of her friends get hit and more than 15 students throwing punches, Brittany Anderson said she'd had enough. She called her parents to pick her up early Wednesday, and doesn't plan to return to school today. Anderson was on the fringes of the large-scale fight that broke out Wednesday during a class change at one of Nashville's largest high schools. At least 13 students were cited and taken to Juvenile Court on disorderly conduct charges, and police said about 100 people were peripherally involved by virtue of being in the hallway when the first fight erupted. Thirty patrol cars were on the scene within 10 to 15 minutes, said Metro police spokesman Don Aaron. He said there was no riot or concern that a riot was brewing, but the large presence was intended to get everyone under control. Gang signs flashed "There was one fight that was broken up, and a lot of other disorderly students in pockets of other altercations," Aaron said. "There were students throwing gang signs at each other, but we don't know if gangs had to do with the initial pushing and shoving.'' Metro Nashville Public Schools spokeswoman Olivia Brown said school officials are looking into whether the uproar started during a freshman assembly sponsored by the Governor's Highway Safety Office. Kendell Poole, executive director of the safety office, said it funds the game-show style program called ThinkFast. A local production company has put on the assembly, focused on safe alcohol choices, more than 60 times for Tennessee freshmen, Poole said. There was a three-minute period between the end of the program and dismissal, so the host put on a rap song. Students started throwing up gang signs and the song was quickly turned off, Poole said. "This is a very worthwhile program for students to learn, and they've come back with nothing but good evaluations," Poole said. Brown said the school with roughly 2,000 students is safe, and that incidents are down this year over last year. After dismissal, two more arrests were made, Metro police said. A 17-year-old student who was not allowed on campus told police he was picking up his friend, and police found a handgun in his car. A 20-year-old passenger was charged with possession of marijuana

Red Cross aids Antioch family who lost home in fire

DAVIDSON COUNTY The Nashville Area Red Cross is providing assistance to a family of seven after a fire Wednesday destroyed their home at 14775 Old Hickory Blvd. in Antioch. Volunteers with the Red Cross responded to the fire at 4:15 a.m. Wednesday morning and provided the family with a hotel room for three nights and financial assistance for food and clothing, including coats and gloves. The family is asking for donations of clothing, furniture and household items to be dropped off at 1111 Battery Lane. Those wishing to donate should call 615-596-8204. — NICOLE YOUNG nyoung@tennessean.com

Wooded Rapist case evidence can be used

By Kate Howard • THE TENNESSEAN • November 20, 2008 Evidence in the case against the man suspected as the Wooded Rapist was obtained legally and will be presented in the trial, a judge ruled this week. Attorneys last month argued that the evidence should be thrown out against Robert Jason Burdick, who faces 27 criminal charges in three counties that range from aggravated rape to aggravated burglary. A search warrant was granted to detectives who developed Burdick as a suspect after they determined he had been peeking in car windows with a flashlight in a Brentwood neighborhood. Davidson County Criminal Court Judge Seth Norman ruled there was enough evidence in the affidavit to connect Burdick's actions that night with the crime patterns of the Wooded Rapist. Through the years as police investigated a string of attacks, they labeled the perpetrator the Wooded Rapist because the assaults occurred near wooded areas. Burdick is now suspected in at least 13 rapes reported between 1994 and 2008 in Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties. A search of his home found five guns, boxes of ammunition, ski masks, tools to open locks, night vision binoculars, black and camouflage clothing, a device to drive away dogs and an anti-barking device, knives and cameras, according to court files. Gary Tamkin, an attorney with the Metro public defender's office, had argued that the case presented in the affidavit to obtain the search warrant wasn't strong enough to link Burdick to any rapes; therefore, the search was illegal.

Brush Pick-up Is Coming! Leaf Pick-Up Is Coming!

Starting Monday, December 1, 2008 Metro Public Works is will be collecting yard brush in "Route-4" for approximately ten days or until the area has been completed. Route 4 includes District 29. Please have your brush out for collection by the following dates: December 1, 2008 You can review details for each route on Public Work's Website by clicking on this link: http://www.nashville.gov/recycle/brush.htm Also, Leaf Collection for area 4 begins December 11th. There will be only one rotation for leaf removal this year. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the staff at Public Works by call ing 862-8716 or calling me at 589-2003. Gratefully, Vivian

A Metro Nashville Tradition for Celebrating the Season!

Sponsored by: Mayor Karl Dean Metro Public Works Metro Beautification and Environment Commission Nashville Electric Service NewsChannel 5 To enter your House go to the following link for more information: http://www.nashville.gov/beautification/holiday_lights.htm

Davidson County crime log from Nov. 10-12

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. Nov. 12 Antioch11:32 p.m., residential burglary, 200 block British Woods Drive Donelson 3:14 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Donelson Pike 4:10 p.m., residential burglary, 8200 block Stewarts Ferry Parkway Priest Lake 5:30 p.m., residential burglary, 1200 block Twin Circle Drive 5:39 p.m., residential burglary, 2900 block Mossdale Drive Una 3:55 p.m., residential burglary, 1500 block Doubletree Lane Nov. 11 Antioch 12:41 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 2300 block Murfreesboro Pike 4:22 a.m., shooting, 2500 block Johnson Ridge Road Donelson 3:03 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Donelson Pike 7:01 p.m., residential burglary, 1300 block Lincoya Bay Drive 10:20 p.m., residential burglary, 1300 block Lincoya Bay Drive Hermitage 11:07 a.m., holdup/robbery, 5700 block Old Hickory Boulevard 5:43 p.m., residential burglary, 4300 block Valley Grove Drive 5:44 p.m., residential burglary, 5100 block Singing Hills Drive Priest Lake 4:57 p.m., residential burglary, 3400 block Daisy Trail Nov. 10 Donelson 2:44 p.m., residential burglary, 3000 block Lincoya Bay Drive Hermitage 3:44 a.m., cutting/stabbing, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike 5:20 a.m., cutting/stabbing, 700 block Spence Lane

Crime Report: Police recruiting office opens today at Hickory Hollow

NASHVILLE Metro police will cut the ribbon today on a new recruiting office in an unlikely place: the Hickory Hollow Mall in Antioch. The office, adjacent to the food court, will provide a dual purpose, police say: provide information to young people about a career with the Metro police and give South Precinct officers a place to do their paperwork. The mall has increasingly been a focus of police resources. Officers working on gang enforcement frequent Hickory Hollow on weekends, and police say they've seen improvements in the area. — KATE HOWARD kahoward@tennessean.com

Blood Drive scheduled at Summit Medical Center

Summit Medical Center will hold a Red Cross Blood Drive at 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24. Those participating should be at least 110 pounds and in general good health. Appointments should be made. Call 316-3130 or visit www.givelife.org.

Special election on English requirement is set for Jan. 22

Voters also will weigh in on a second referendum to allow more opportunities to change the Metro Charter By Michael Cass • THE TENNESSEAN • November 18, 2008 If you're going through a little election withdrawal, take heart: There are just 45 days until early voting starts again in Metro Nashville. The Davidson County Election Commission voted Monday to call a special election for Jan. 22 to hold referendums on two proposals to change the Metro Charter. Early voting will start Jan. 2. Voters will decide whether Metro should do business in English only, a controversial idea that has taken a long and winding road to the brink of becoming law. They'll also weigh in on a proposal to give voters more opportunities to amend the charter, an idea that grew out of the English-only fracas. But there was a little drama before the election commission voted. Commission Chairman Eddie Bryan asked Metro Councilman Eric Crafton if he'd be open to holding the English-only vote at the next general election in August 2010. Bryan said he had made that offer previously, but Crafton vehemently insisted it had been his idea the first time around. This time, though, he rejected the offer, saying there was an underlying reason for the proposal. "They were trying to give themselves time to mount a campaign" against the English-only plan, Crafton said in an interview after the meeting. In any case, election Commissioner Patricia Heim said she didn't think the commission could move an election from the date requested by the thousands of people who signed Crafton's petition. The Metro Council approved an English-only measure more than 18 months ago, but then-Mayor Bill Purcell vetoed it. Crafton hoped to hold a referendum on Nov. 4, but a series of courts ruled for Metro's position that the vote couldn't be held that early under the charter's requirements. Later in the meeting, Bryan and Heim raised another question: Could multiple petitions generate charter amendment votes on the same ballot? Nicki Eke, a Metro attorney, said her office decided that was legal because the charter says, "An amendment or amendments may be proposed … upon petition filed with the metropolitan clerk." The use of the plural "amendments" indicated more than one petition could be filed for a single election, Eke said. Bill could be $350,000 Jim Roberts, an attorney for the English-only proponents and leader of the drive to let voters change the charter at least once a year, shot the proceedings with a small video camera. He said after the meeting that passage of his amendment would create greater accountability in government. Critics have said it would lead to government by referendum, undermining the charter. Early voting will take place at just one site, the election commission's headquarters in the Metro Office Building, 800 Second Ave. S. It will run through Jan. 17. Election Administrator Ray Barrett said the special election would cost between $300,000 and $350,000.

Antioch businesses become targets of crime

WKRN NEWS CHANNEL 2 Posted: Nov 18, 2008 08:11 AM CST Updated: Nov 18, 2008 09:53 AM CST Owners of two businesses in the Nashboro Village area of Antioch became crime victims early Tuesday morning. A burglar got inside S & E Hair & Beauty Supply located at 2275 Murfreesboro Road just before 3 a.m. Police said the thief took the cash register with about a week's worth of profits. A short time later, police also discovered a break-in at a Greek restaurant next door called Gyros, Kababs, Subs and More. Officers were not sure what had been taken. Police did not release any information about possible suspects, and are still investigating. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 74-CRIME.

Metro begins picking up leaves

By Nancy DeVille • THE TENNESSEAN • November 14, 2008 Got leaves? If so, Metro Public Works crews will haul them off during its fall leaf collection that begins Tuesday, Nov. 25. Public Works workers will travel the existing 12 brush routes to collect bagged leaves left at the curb or in alleys. Residents should use paper or plastic bags and have bagged leaves out for pickup by the first day of collection in their area. The leaf collection is provided for residents in both the Urban Services District, where Metro arranges trash pickup, and the General Services District, officials said. The service does not include satellite cites such as Belle Meade which has a contractor that provides once a week, year round chipper service, brush and leaf collection for its residents, said Beth Reardon, the city manager. Belle Meade residents are asked to put their brush, limbs and bagged leaves at the street for pickup on their collection day, which is either Monday, Wednesday or Friday. The city of Forest Hills has a chipper service that picks up brush year round, but during the months of November and December, the city's chipper service picks up bagged leaves for residents. Bags should contain leaves only. Residents can simply leave their bagged leaves at the edge of the road for pickup. Davidson County residents can also take bagged leaves to Metro's Bordeaux mulch facility at 1400 County Hospital Road free of charge, but plastic bags are not accepted. EarthMatters Tennessee, at 1001 Gale Lane, allows residents to bring leaves to its George W. Carver Food Park at 10 a.m.–2 p.m. each Saturday for disposal. The nonprofit organization also offers a pick up service for a donation. The organization is looking to collect 10,000 bags this year. "We are retraining people how to think," said Sizwe Herring, executive director of EarthMatters Tennessee. "Leaves are not trash, and we shouldn't treat them as such." At EarthMatters Tennessee the leaves are used during their educational programming to teach youth and residents about the process of composting. "We make about 30,000 pounds of compost each year," Herring said. "If the city did it on a much bigger level, we could do a lot to help affect positive green change in Nashville." Besides bagged leaf collection, there are other ways to dispose of leaves. They can be mulched in place by a lawn mower or piled up in the yard for composting. Raked leaves should not be placed into the street where they may clog up storm drains or cause other problems, Public Works officials said.

Police recruit vigilant neighbors

By Charles Booth • THE TENNESSEAN • November 14, 2008 Deb Duncan keeps a close watch on what happens in her Hillbrook neighborhood in South Nashville. If something seems odd or suspicious, she isn't shy about contacting neighbors. "I've knocked on a neighbor's door at 11 or 12 o'clock at night," she said. "And we alert each other by e-mail or phone." So far this year, crime is down in South Nashville, but the area has seen a 21.7 percent increase in residential burglaries. That's why the Metro police South Precinct is looking to recruit more vigilant neighborhood residents like Duncan. "Obviously, you have to be our eyes and ears in what we can't see and where we can't be," Commander Mike Alexander said. He was speaking at a community meeting hosted by the precinct Thursday night. It's one of the many examples of how the department is trying to build relationships with area residents. Those relationships, Metro Councilman Parker Toler said, may be the key to reducing crime in this community. "We cannot solve every problem as far as crime is concerned," he said. "But some of the bad incidents, if we know more about them, then maybe on the front end we can solve some of them." In the past year, 14 new neighborhood watch groups have formed in South Nashville. That means the department is now working with about 80 such groups in that area alone. "Any time we add a neighborhood watch group, we feel good about that because the trust and the partnership is increasing," Alexander said. Duncan has seen firsthand the success of these groups. Since she helped found the Hillbrook Neighborhood Association about a decade ago, she has remained in close contact with South Precinct officers. "We've had nothing but a proactive response from them," she said. "We had some issues where we had a house with a lot of high traffic. We worked with (the precinct), and the situation has been resolved."

Some stores closing before Christmas

By Naomi Snyder • THE TENNESSEAN • November 17, 2008 It's going to be a liquidation Christmas this year. Several national retailers, including Circuit City and Linens 'N Things, have filed for bankruptcy protection and will close stores. Some locally owned shops are closing, too, and selling off or liquidating merchandise. Normally, retailers try to wait until after the holidays to file for bankruptcy. Not this year. They simply are running out of money too fast. "Many retailers were trying to hold on until January,'' said Britt Beemer, founder of America's Research Group, a retail research firm. "When September and October came, it weakened them so much, there was no way they could withstand those kind of sales declines." A stock market free fall, rising unemployment and sinking consumer confidence helped push national consumer spending down 3.1 percent in the third quarter, the worst performance in 28 years, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. "Sales have completely fallen off a cliff,'' said Taylor Condra, the director of operations for the 61-year-old family-owned furniture business Cresent Enterprises here. Although the Gallatin-based company is closing its two retail locations, one in Nashville and one in Cool Springs, it has not filed for bankruptcy protection. The family intends to continue manufacturing furniture overseas and importing and selling it in the U.S. The retail stores hadn't been profitable for two years and sales significantly dropped off during the last two months, Condra said. His company will start its liquidation sale Friday. Waller Furniture in Madison also is closing up shop and liquidating the store. Also, Daniel Gordon, owner of Island Sports inside the Shoppes at Home Depot on Bell Road, said he decided to close his retail store when its lease expired because sales were slow and it was too hard to compete against larger sporting goods chains. Climate 'very stressful' He called the current economic climate "very stressful" for small-business owners. "You put all your money in it, all your savings, and then watch it disappear," Gordon said. He held a clearance sale over the weekend, but will continue to sell standard school clothing for Metro students via a Web site only. "We're going to reorganize," he said. "Our main focus will be online." Bankruptcy only option Add to the retail hit list Linens 'N Things, which filed for bankruptcy protection last May and is in the midst of closing all its stores. There are four in Middle Tennessee, in Brentwood, Goodlettsville, Murfreesboro and Clarksville. The New Jersey-based housewares company initially tried to close some stores and find a buyer, Beemer said. But with few buyers willing to step up in an economic downturn, Linens 'N Things had no luck and no other choice. Circuit City filed for bankruptcy protection a week ago after announcing plans to close one-fifth of its stores, or 155 locations. Only the stores that are closing will have liquidation sales. That includes outlets in Spring Hill and Antioch in Middle Tennessee. The company said it filed for bankruptcy protection because vendors had lost confidence that they'd be paid if they shipped products to Circuit City. "Operating under the protection of Chapter 11 (part of the bankruptcy law) will provide the company's vendors with assurances that they'll be paid for merchandise the company receives post-filing so the company can be sufficiently stocked for the holiday … season," Circuit City said in a statement. Harvard Law School professor Lynn LoPucki keeps a database of major bankruptcies. Five retailers with assets of more than $250 million have filed for bankruptcy so far this year, up from two last year and none the year before, according to LoPucki's database. However, 2008 hasn't topped the year 2000, when 12 major retailers filed for bankruptcy, many of them grocery store chains such as Big V Supermarkets and Eagle Food Centers. LoPucki's figures show that January tends to have more retail bankruptcy filings than any other month of the year. "As long as there's a Christmas ahead, there's still hope,'' LoPucki said. More closures to comeThis year, though, there has been a surge in store closings before the holidays. The International Council of Shopping Centers estimated last month that 2008 will see 148,000 store closures, the largest spike since 2001. It projects an additional 73,000 store closures in the first half of 2009.Beemer predicts even more bankruptcies in the spring, if Christmas fails to save several struggling retail chains. Consumers may benefit in the short run from all the liquidations sales, but they'll end up with fewer shopping options later, he said. "I believe we'll see more bankruptcies next spring than we've seen the last five years combined,'' Beemer said. "There are a lot of retailers who are going to have an extraordinarily bad Christmas."

16 McGavock Students Charged in Truancy Sweep

More news of success regarding the efforts to reduce truancy. Below is the information provided by our Hermitage Flex Officers. As always, great work! Gratefully Vivian. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hermitage Flex officers conducted a truancy sweep of McGavock High School today. Officers charged 16 McGavock students with loitering during school hours for attempting to leave the campus while school was in session. Three adults were charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. During the truancy initiative, an officer in one unmarked vehicle watched for students who appeared to be skipping school. Uniformed officers then made investigative stops of those who appeared to be in violation. The truancy operation is the latest in an on-going effort between the police department, Juvenile Court, and school officials to see that students are in school and remain there until dismissal.

Holidays Dates for Metro Offices

To help you plan for the holidays when doing business with Metro Government, Metro Offices will be closed November 27 and 28, and December 24 and 25. Some offices will be opened on the day after Christmas, December 26 and on New Year's Eve, December 31. Green Ribbon Committee meetings continue Mayor Dean's Green Ribbon Committee held two public meetings this week to get community input on making Nashville the "greenest city in the Southeast." Three more are scheduled as follows. For resident of Southeast Davidson, I hope that you can attend the meeting that will be held at Mt. View Elementary. Two other meetings are listed for your convenience. Gratefully, Vivian 10:30 am - noon Saturday, Nov. 15 Green Hills Library, 3701 Benham Ave. 5:30 - 7 pm Thursday, Nov. 20 Mt. View Elementary School, 3820 Murfreesboro Rd. 10:30 am - noon Saturday, Nov. 22 Inglewood Library, 4312 Gallatin Rd.

District 29 Office Hours for November/December 2008

Hello District 29 Residents: Please join me for my monthly office hours at the First Tennessee Bank-Nashboro, 2360 Murfreesboro Road from 10 am to noon. I am honored to discuss and help resolve your concerns and receive your ideas about District 29, City of Nashville and Davidson county. If you need to provide your concerns to me or you need to speak with me sooner, you can call me at 589-2003 or email me at vivianwilhoite@comcast.net. For matters that you believe need my immediate attention, please call me instead of emailing. I thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Gratefully, Vivian. District 29 Office Hours, First Tennessee Bank-Nashboro Saturday, November 29, 2008 10 am to 12 noon Saturday, December 20, 2008 10 am to 12 noon See you

Hermitage Police Officers Consistently Fight For Safer Schools

Hi District 29 Neighbors and Friends: Commander Richter's Hermitgate Flex A Unit continues to have great success in dealing with truancy and other offenses occurring at Antioch High School. The hard work and continous effort will surely change the mind set of the offenders and they will eventually get the message that we will not put up with these types and other similar activities at our schools. I believe that these efforts have decreased such activities at Antioch High School and I know, like you, look forward to seeing their success in their written data reports. Thank you Commander Richter, the officiers of the Hermitage Flex A Unit and to the staff of Antioch High School for their collaborative efforts to provide our children and families with a safe, learning environment. Keep up the good work! Read about their success below. Gratefully, Vivian Today the Hermitage Flex A-Team spent the first portion of the shift focusing on truancy issues at Antioch High School (1900 Hobson Pk). While focusing on truancy today, the A-Team was able to charge 11 individuals with 12 misdemeanor offenses. The types of charges and number of each are as follows: (10) Loitering During School Hours, (1) DL Required, and (1) Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor. Next, the team remained in 535 zone for the majority of the shift. This is currently a hot zone due to increases in residential burglaries. While in 535 zone, the team focused on traffic enforcement which yielded these results in addition to the truancy portion: 4 misdemeanors, 3 traffic arrests, 1 outstanding warrant arrest, 2 drug arrests, 1 business check, 1 Terry stop, and 1 community contact.

Davidson County crime log for Nov. 6-9, 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. Nov. 9 Antioch 4:53 p.m., residential burglary, 400 block Hickory Highlands Drive Donelson 11:23 a.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Donelson Pike Hermitage 3:14 p.m., residential burglary, 4600 block Forest Ridge Drive 6:13 p.m., holdup/robbery, 5700 block Old Hickory Boulevard 10:51 p.m., cutting/stabbing, 3800 block Bell Road Nov. 8 Hermitage 12:51 a.m., rape, at Jameswood Court 12:01 p.m., residential burglary, 4300 block Valley Grove Drive 6:06 p.m., rape, at Frist Boulevard Nov. 7 Donelson 6:13 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 2700 block Old Lebanon Pike 8:26 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 2700 block Old Lebanon Pike 9:45 p.m., holdup/robbery, 40 block Rachel Drive Hermitage 7:32 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 5500 block Old Hickory Boulevard 10:17 a.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Tulip Grove Road 2:01 p.m., residential burglary, 1400 block Arbor Creek Lane 5:42 p.m., nonresidential burglary, at Bridgestone Park 6:49 p.m., residential burglary, 4300 block Valley Grove Drive 7:08 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 100 block Bonnabrook Drive Una 4:20 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2500 block Murfreesboro Pike Nov. 6 Donelson 8:59 p.m., holdup/robbery, 3600 block Bell Road Hermitage 9:42 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 4200 block Lebanon Pike 1:22 p.m., shooting, 1000 block Murfreesboro Pike 1:25 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 900 block Lebanon Pike 4:36 p.m., cutting/stabbing, 1000 block Murfreesboro Pike 4:37 p.m., holdup/robbery, 800 block Fesslers Parkway 8:12 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 4200 block Lebanon Pike 9:53 p.m., residential burglary, 700 block Sunnyvale Court Priest Lake 3:31 p.m., residential burglary, 4500 block Hamilton Lane Una 9:05 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2500 block Murfreesboro Pike

More stores close up shop in Southeast

But others interested in opening businesses By Suzanne Normand Blackwood • THE TENNESSEAN • November 14, 2008 In Southeast Davidson County, mom-and-pops and big box stores alike are feeling the strain of the economic crisis. Circuit City announced recently it would be closing four stores in Tennessee, including its Hickory Hollow store. The Cozy Corner Café inside Lenox Village on Nolensville Road closed recently. And Island Sports and Designer Consignor inside the Shoppes at Home Depot on Bell Road have closed. Daniel Gordon, owner of Island Sports, said traffic had been slow leading up to the store's expiration date on its lease. He said this was particularly challenging, since the store already had prices lower than its counterparts. "We're much cheaper than everybody," he said. But although their prices are higher, competition from sporting good chains made it hard for him to stay in business, he said. "That's been very disheartening," he said. Gordon said not having a big advertising budget didn't help. He said it's expensive to advertise, especially on a consistent basis and on a large scale. "That's money we don't have in our budget," he said. Initially, Gordon said he considered getting a loan. But because of the economic crisis, "we couldn't get any more small business loans." That later changed with the federal government's economic aid package. By then, though, Gordon had decided it was not in his best interest to get a loan. Lenox still find tenants Dave McGowan, president of Lenox Village, LLC, said business had fallen off for Cozy Corner Café. After the café's lease expired, "they decided not to go forward," he said. "In this business, what you find is some make it and some don't. "Consumer confidence is way down," he said, and this is having a detrimental effect on retail. "It's a tough economy right now. What you do is try to work with (tenants) the best way you can." However, McGowan said, he believes that, after the first of the year, consumer confidence will build back up. Already, he has interested tenants who are not letting the economic crisis deter them. A family practitioner, a stock brokerage firm, a bakery, a children's clothing store, a coffee shop and a Mongolian stir-fry are planning to move in to the commercial section of Lenox Village. "We're continuing to attract business," McGowan said. Also, "residential sales are still strong," he said, adding Lenox Village will have closed on 100 homes by the end of the year. Closing sales planned But Gordon, who is from Jamaica, described the economic crisis for small business owners right now as "very stressful." "You put all your money in it, all your savings, and then watch it disappear," he said. Island Sports, which is having the last two days of its clearance sale today, Nov. 14, and tomorrow, Nov. 15, specializes in athletic wear and in standard school attire for Metro Schools. The store is offering its merchandise, excluding standard school attire, at 50 percent off. The clearance sale coincides with that of Designer Consignor next door. Gordon said the store has been offering its standard school attire through its Web site for the last few weeks and plans to continue online sales for standard school attire only after Nov. 15. "We're going to reorganize," he said. "Our main focus will be online." Gordon said he is interested in selling the business if he has an interested buyer. He is also willing to donate some of the merchandise to charity if he doesn't sell the business, he said.

Metro student count goes up

By Jaime Sarrio • THE TENNESSEAN • November 13, 2008 Enrollment in Metro Schools climbed by 316 students this year, despite the district's unflattering "corrective action" status under the No Child Left Behind education law. Years of sub-par test scores by some groups of students led to a partial state takeover of Metro Schools in 2007, which included changes to budgets, principals and top leadership. The state's presence increased this year after another round of failing results. But that didn't deter newcomers from moving to the district. Enrollment grew from 74,733 students at the start of last school year to 75,049 this year, according to numbers released this week. The numbers were 300 students below projections, said Larry Collier, who works with the district's student assignment department. Projections for next year will begin in February. The slight growth was spread out across various parts of the district and could not be isolated to one or two areas, Collier said. Enrollment changes could not be tied to the district's testing woes. "I have no basis or data from which I can draw the conclusion that corrective action status has negatively affected our enrollment, he said. Racial demographics in the district changed only slightly in the past year. White students now make up 33 percent of the district's total population, down from 34 percent last year. Hispanic students filled in gap and now comprise 15 percent of enrollment, up 14 percent. Black students are still Metro's racial majority, accounting for 48 percent, no change from last year.

Nashville Metro Transit Authority to hold public meeting

Tennessean Nashville Metro Transit Authority is hosting a public meeting to consider its master plan from 4 – 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the University School of Nashville, 2000 Edgehill Ave. “This is a first round of meetings to gather general ideas form Nashvillians on the future of their public transportation system,” said MTA CEO Paul Ballard. “We will have more public meetings to share the work on the new strategic plan as it progresses. Attendance at the meeting is not required for comment. Residents can also mail comments to MTA Planning Department, attn: Public Meeting Comments, 130 Nestor St. Nashville, 37210, fax to 862-6208, call MTA Customer Service at 862-5950 or email mta.publicmeetings@nashville.gov.

Davidson County crime log from Nov. 3-5

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. Nov. 5 Donelson 9:42 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 500 block Donelson Pike Hermitage 3:20 a.m., holdup/robbery, 1400 block Lebanon Pike 5:57 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 5800 block Old Hickory Boulevard 9:55 a.m., residential burglary, 1400 block Lebanon Pike 11:12 a.m., residential burglary, 3900 block Bell Road 5:58 p.m., residential burglary, 60 block Donelson Street Priest Lake 6:51 a.m., residential burglary, 3100 block Justin Towne Court 3:54 p.m., rape, at Lake Terrace Drive 4:17 p.m., residential burglary, 500 block Forest Pointe Place 8:34 p.m., residential burglary, 700 block Krohne Way South 3:27 p.m., residential burglary, 700 block Currey Road 6:51 p.m., holdup/robbery, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike Una 4:44 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2200 block Murfreesboro Pike 7:31 p.m., residential burglary, 200 block Village Green Drive 7:57 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2500 block Murfreesboro Pike Nov. 4 Antioch 3:59 p.m., residential burglary, 500 block Piccadilly Row 6:26 p.m., residential burglary, 2800 block Evergreen Ridge Point Donelson 3:49 a.m., residential burglary, 1800 block Jackson Downs Boulevard 10:18 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 300 block Donelson Pike Hermitage 12:48 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 5500 block Old Hickory Boulevard 8:08 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 2200 block Hobson Pike 9:18 a.m., residential burglary, 1100 block Lakewalk Drive 10:27 a.m., residential burglary, 1100 block Lakewalk Drive 12:06 p.m., holdup/robbery, 5000 block Old Hickory Boulevard 4:32 p.m., residential burglary, 4900 block Peppertree Drive Nov. 3 Antioch 3:21 p.m., residential burglary, 700 block Dover Glen Drive 5:49 p.m., residential burglary, 800 block Rocky Mountain Parkway 6:34 p.m., residential burglary, 4700 block Apollo Drive Donelson 5:07 p.m., holdup/robbery, 200 block Ellery Court Hermitage 3:52 p.m., residential burglary, 2900 block Crystal Spring Lane 4:42 p.m., residential burglary, 100 block Burning Tree Drive 11:37 p.m., holdup/robbery, 600 block Arbor Lake Boulevard Priest Lake 11:07 a.m., residential burglary, 6100 block Mt. View Road

Council bill would ban alcohol at after-hours clubs

By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • November 11, 2008 Patrons of Nashville's after-hours clubs would no longer be able to bring their own alcohol to the establishments under Metro Council legislation being filed today. Councilwoman Anna Page said her bill would take all alcohol out of the clubs after 3 a.m. "If patrons want to drink after 3, they need to go home," said Page, a South Nashville councilwoman who recently introduced two other bills to make it more difficult for after-hours clubs to operate. The city's 14 after-hours clubs now allow patrons to bring their own alcoholic beverages after 3 a.m., when bars are required by the city to stop serving alcohol. Page said the clubs would still be able to allow live music and dancing after 3. Contact Michael Cass at 259-8838 or mcass@tennessean.com.

Antioch boosters greet Santa today

The Antioch Pride Campaign's first holiday parade rolls at 2 today at Hickory Hollow Mall, 5252 Hickory Hollow Parkway. The first 200 children under 10 years old to arrive will get a gift card (limited to three per family) from Santa. All guests can register with radio station Mix 92.9 to win an iPod Chromatic and other prizes. Santa will throw candy in the parade, which includes appearances from a marching band and local churches, schools and businesses. Anyone interested in driving their cars and motorcycles in the parade are asked to line up at 1 p.m. in front of Steve and Barry's. The parade starts in front of Macy's and will circle the mall. — MARISSA DECUIR mdecuir@tennessean.com

Antioch students examine presidential election issues

Mock debate helps students increase critical thinkingBy Suzanne Normand • Blackwood • THE TENNESSEAN • November 7, 2008 Antioch High School debate students recently had a chance to demonstrate their oratory skills as well as the importance of staying informed on the issues. The school held a presidential debate Monday on election eve in which one team debated for Sen. Barack Obama, and one team debated for Sen. John McCain. The Obama team consisted of students Marlene Abdelnour, Matthew Benson and Chase Jones and English teacher Marc Quarles. The McCain team consisted of students Purvi Prema and Alexandra Mitchell, psychology teacher Eric Haines, and educational assistant Cephus Trotter of the school's Making A Change program. Carlos Maradiaga, 18, said he voted in Tuesday's historic U.S. election in which Obama was elected the first African-American president. Although he was pretty well informed before the debate, Carlos said the debate did give him some new information, especially about Obama. He said he thought both sides did well "at defending what they believe in." Debate coach Carrol Trusty said she encouraged the students to debate for the side they opposed. "You have to see both sides to do an accurate analysis of a topic," she said. "So in academic debate, they alternate sides." Trusty said doing this leads to "a tremendous increase in critical thinking." As a result, she said she saw in the audience "more of a split" than expected. Senior Tiffany Gains, who is a debate student, said getting the information out there is a huge part of a successful debate. But, added junior Fatma Ahmed, who is also a debate student, debate is more than "saying what you know." It's also getting up there and saying "what you know is right." The idea for the debate originated with a conversation that took place after school one day between a student and Assistant Principal Bruce Curtis, Trusty said. They began talking about the election, and Curtis jovially challenged the student to a debate. Topics mirrored actual ones Most of the debate focused on topics such as the economy; pork barrel spending; health care; the War in Iraq; and the two candidates' energy policies. Marlene, a senior who played the role of Obama, talked about Obama's plans for small business tax credits; his plan to withdraw troops from Iraq; his health-care policy; and his energy policy, among other issues. She said Obama's plans benefit the middle class, while McCain's plans benefit the rich. Regarding the War in Iraq, she spoke about a "cost-benefit analysis." "Is the cost of soldiers dying worth the benefit of patriotic pride?" she asked. Trotter, who played the role of McCain, talked about his "pro growth, pro job" strategy. Although Americans are "resilient," he said, "our economy today is in bad shape." "We feel like with the way the economy is today, we need leadership." Trotter said he was prepared to offer that leadership, but he wasn't so sure that his opponent was ready. Regarding McCain's energy policy, Trotter said, "we've got to separate ourselves from foreign oil." This means finding alternative sources of fuel, he added. Trotter pointed out how "McCain" said he would make health care available to everyone. "How are we going to do that?" he asked. Instead of subsidizing health-care companies, "We would be implementing our own universal health-care plan," Marlene responded. "Universal health care sounds a lot like socialism," countered Haines. Purvi, who is a senior, also questioned how Obama planned to fund his health-care plan. If the government were put in control of health care, "it would bankrupt us," she said. Students felt good afterward After the debate, junior Chase Jones, who was on the Obama team, said he felt his team really did its homework. "We knew our arguments," he said. Although he felt he should have put more thought into his arguments, Chase said he felt the team generally argued its points well. "I was really impressed," said Alexandra, a senior, pointing out how they lost a team member on the McCain side at the last minute to the flu. "We did really well under pressure," she said. "We were prepared, but not as prepared as we could have been," Alexandra added. But, she said, "we worked well together" and "our faculty helped. "They were very informative." Debate a 'tangible outcome' of private donations Antioch High School, which receives funding for its debate program by the Nashville Alliance for Public Education, is the only area public school that offers honors debate classes and has a public policy debate team. The alliance hopes to establish policy debate teams at other schools in the future through funding from its donors, said executive director Pam Garrett. At Antioch, she said, "We're very proud of the debate team." She said it has served as "an example of a number of programs in Metro schools where additional resources have made a difference." There are a number of areas "where we invest private dollars toward making our public schools great," and this debate is "one of the tangible outcomes," she said. Carlos Maradiaga said the debate did not influence his decision to vote, nor did it influence how he voted. "I had already decided," he said. "I keep up with all the debates. I went to the debate here in Nashville." Carlos, a student in the school's ROTC program and a member of the National Guard, said he was also partially influenced by his family. Bret Lanier, 17, said that even though he was not old enough to vote in this election, he believes the arguments in the debate were "well thought out."

English-only fallout hard to predict

Other cities' results offer little insight By Janell Ross • THE TENNESSEAN • November 8, 2008 When Davidson County residents go to the polls Jan. 22, they'll have one thing to consider: Should Nashville become the largest U.S. city to name English as its official language, limiting to English virtually everything from ordinary interactions with government to Metro publications and meetings? What's likely to happen if the plan passes is difficult to measure, based on results from other U.S. cities that have taken similar steps. Advocates have said it's a protective policy able to prevent social fissures and inspire or force English language learning, as well as a confirmation of the Founding Fathers' intent and a money-saver. And, said Metro Councilman Eric Crafton, who has been the driving force behind the conversation about language in Nashville for three years, there's something more: "A long-term effect will be kind of like an insurance policy. … English will be enshrined as our government's official language once and for all." Opponents argue that the measure would do nothing to help or encourage language learning, would make Nashville appear backward and unwelcoming, and potentially would dampen the city's economic and social development. The real value of English-language measures is that they officially identify English as the "controlling" language, said K.C. McAlpin, executive director of ProEnglish, an Arlington, Va.-based organization that supports measures to make English the official language and that provided most of the funding for the Nashville language campaign. The Southern Poverty Law Center, an Alabama-based group that monitors extremist activity, has described ProEnglish as a hate-group-affiliated organization because its founder is linked to organizations, such as the Federation for American Immigration Reform, that have been labeled hate groups. Results are mixed Around the country, 28 states and several cities and towns — all considerably smaller than Nashville — have taken steps to declare English the official language. In Farmer's Branch, Texas, population 27,485, a 2006 English-language measure that included exceptions for matters of public safety led the city to stop sending out notices on water bills in both English and Spanish, and city signs bearing both languages were changed. It remains in effect. "You could also look at what's happened in Farmer's Branch and then look at what's happened in New York City, where Mayor Michael Bloom berg just signed an executive order commanding city offices to (be equipped to) operate in six languages," McAlpin said. "That could have never happened if a law like they have in Farmer's Branch were in place in New York." Farmer's Branch city staff reached this week could not quantify cost savings attributable to the new policy. There also are cities where English-only measures haven't had much of a tangible impact because they haven't remained on the books for long. In Pahrump, Nev., population 24,631, a 2006 ordinance called for all official government business to be conducted in English, keeping legally required public notices out of non-English-speaking publications. Town leaders repealed the measure on the grounds that it may be unconstitutional and un enforceable. And in Valley Park, Mo., population 6,302, a 2006 English-language measure became law along with a requirement that landlords and business owners verify the legal immigration status of renters and employees. At points, all have been the subject of litigation. The English-language and landlord measures were repealed because of legal concerns. Litigation related to the two measures has cost Valley Park at least $200,000, according to public records obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union of Eastern Missouri. On Tuesday, 86 percent of Missouri voters approved a statewide measure making English the state's official language and barring translation services in most cases. But, because the state does not provide any such services, the impact is largely symbolic, said Anthony Rothert, legal director for the ACLU of Eastern Missouri. Nashville is different In Nashville, the measure that voters will consider does include exceptions for matters of health or public safety. And because the change would be to the Metro Charter and not merely an ordinance, it would not be subject to the same sort of council repeals that undid English language measures in other cities. Instead, a separate charter amendment effort would have to be mounted to alter or eliminate it. But the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee has made clear that it will take whatever steps are necessary to block the measure, including litigation. But should the language measure receive voter approval, it may also be stymied by something else. "If the ordinance is passed on January 22, most people, as they go about their lives, won't notice any difference whatsoever," said Jim Boulet Jr., executive director of Springfield, Va.-based English First. English First is a nonprofit organization that advocates for federal law making English the nation's official language. "That's been our experience with these things. ...The reality is that most of the language mandates that drive people crazy are federally mandated." Contact Janell Ross at 615-726-5982 or jross1@tennessean.com.

Bell Road across dam will close temporarily

Tennessean The section of Bell Road that runs across J. Percy Priest Dam will shut down temporarily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 17-20, for a couple of construction-related projects. The road needs some maintenance work, and also a valve for water quality control will be installed, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced today. For more information, call the J. Percy Priest Lake Resource Managers Office at 615-889-1975.

Obama wins White House

WKRN Channel 2 News Barack Obama has been elected president of the United States, the first African American ever to win the White House. With victories in Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and other battleground states, the 47-year-old Democratic senator built a commanding lead over Republican rival John McCain. A huge crowd gathered in Chicago's Grant Park to cheer his improbable triumph and await his first public speech as president-elect. McCain gave his concession speech shortly before 10:30 p.m. Central Time. Obama followed with his acceptance speech not long after. "If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer," he told the crowd. In his concession speech, McCain urged all Americans to join him in congratulating Obama on his election victory. He also said despite their differences, he was willing to work with Obama in the future. "Senator Obama and I have had and argued our differences, and he has prevailed. No doubt many of those differences remain. These are difficult times for our country and I pledge to him tonight to do all in my power to help him lead us through the many challenges we face," he said. Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, McCain's running mate, was standing with him but she did not speak. Afterwards, she mingled with the crowd, talking to supporters and taking pictures. Many of Palin's fans said they want her back on the Republican presidential ticket in four years. Obama surged in the polls in recent weeks, campaigning as the candidate of change. The son of a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas, he was rather unknown when he made his first run for the Senate, giving a speech just four years ago at the Democratic National Convention. Emphasizing his early opposition to the Iraq war, Obama defeated Senator Hillary Clinton after a long, bruising primary fight. He then beat back Republican efforts to portray him as reckless, naive and inexperienced and combated Internet misinformation questioning his religion and patriotism. Obama attracted millions of first-time voters in his fight to become president and brought the historic American election to the attention of the entire world. *The Associated Press contributed to this report

Election Day November 4th

Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite works early morning for Senator Obama on Murfreesboro Road.

50 lbs. pot seized from Antioch home

WKRN Channel 2 News Posted: Oct 31, 2008 05:12 PM CDT Updated: Nov 1, 2008 07:22 PM CDT A residential alarm in south Nashville led to a drug bust early Friday morning. Metro police said they responded to a burglar alarm on Took Drive in Antioch and found evidence of marijuana in the home. "While inside they found evidence that marijuana was being stored here at the location. The scene was held until we could obtain a search warrant and we searched the premises," Det. Jeff Barker said. Police seized 50 pounds of marijuana, hundreds of prescription pills, a large amount of cash and three vehicles. They are working to identify suspects.

Will Dean take helm of Nashville schools?

Groundwork laid for Metro takeover in the event state benchmarks aren't met By Jaime Sarrio and Michael Cass • THE TENNESSEAN • November 3, 2008 Mayor Karl Dean is preparing himself to assume control of Nashville schools should the district again fail to meet state testing benchmarks this school year. The mayor has already hired two new education advisers and said he plans to add more. He is raising millions in private money to fund pet school reform projects and plans to meet with New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who assumed control of the school district there in 2002. Questions linger about what a mayoral takeover in Nashville would look like and whether Gov. Phil Bredesen — who could have the final say — would appoint Dean to take the helm. But Dean said he is getting ready for any scenario. "I am preparing myself for any eventuality and that is something that is clearly on the table," Dean said. "And if we make progress and that is not an option, I am still going to be involved in schools." Metro schools are under partial state control because the district as a whole has failed to meet testing standards for five years. State education officials this summer made drastic changes to the district's top personnel and principal lineup, and will have even more control next year if students fail to meet benchmarks again. The law gives the state the authority to wipe out the school board and appoint a new governing body. Metro is also without a schools director, and the mayor's undefined role could further complicate the search. Dean said he believes the city should hire an interim director until the district's future is clearer; state officials and the board want more permanent leadership. Either way, Dean said he wants to have a plan should the governor ask for one in August, when test scores are released. He's been watching the success of mayoral takeovers in other cities such as Washington and New York and is interested in letting the country know that Nashville wants to be a major player in school reform. "It all goes back to accountability and you can have the real political accountability in the mayor's office — all the attention is there," he said. "The board of education, whether that's the right structure for where we are now, I don't know." New law may be needed The state legislature would have to pass a law to give the mayor control over the schools, or the education commissioner — who is appointed by Bredesen — could hand over power under the federal No Child Left Behind law. Lydia Lenker, the governor's spokeswoman, said it is premature to say whether legislation will be needed. "Whether there is a need for legislation will be determined by the path Mayor Dean and Metro take to improve the school system," she said. "The governor has been focused more on raising standards at the state level. That will help all schools and systems across Tennessee, not just Metro." About a month ago, the governor invited Dean to a meeting with representatives from New York and Louisiana, where state officials are reshaping the New Orleans school district. Representatives from the Broad Foundation, an education reform nonprofit whose supporters include mayor-appointed chancellors from the D.C. and New York school districts, also attended. Lenker said the meeting was about general school improvement strategies not specific to Metro. If Dean were to take over the schools, Nashville would be the first metropolitan, or city-county, district in the country to have a mayor in charge, said Kenneth Wong, a former Vanderbilt University professor, and author of the book The Education Mayor. "That really creates a more interesting dynamic because you have a more diverse community to balance things out — racially and incomewise," Wong said. "There are real opportunities, with the right kind of governance, to turn around this system." Other cities are finding mayoral takeovers to be effective because they create more accountability, Wong said. The mayor's role looks different from city to city, but oftentimes he will appoint a school board to serve as an oversight committee, or create other boards for public representation and input. Chamber involved Public support also plays an important role, Wong said. And so far, at least one powerful group is open to the idea. The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce is bringing Wong in talk about his book in December. Ralph Schulz, president and CEO of the chamber, said the organization hopes to start a community conversation about the next step for Metro schools if they struggle again this year. "We're looking down the line at next August, when the state may end up in full control of the school system," Schulz said. "At that point, there will be a decision to make about which form of governance this system will work best under." Schulz said the chamber wants to learn from Wong's research instead of just batting around opinions. Private businessmen were also essential in helping Dean create his Education First Fund, a pool of money that paid for recruitment services like Teach for America and the New Teacher Project as well as new staff positions. Ben Rechter, a businessman who helped Dean raise money for the Education First Fund and contributed to it himself, said fundraisers have brought in more than $3 million for the fund. "He's doing everything he knows how to do with the authority he has," Rechter said. "Beyond that, I do feel he's preparing himself to deal with whatever the next transition is, and that'll be dictated by the state." Some don't back takeover But not everyone is convinced a mayoral takeover is necessary. Bob Teague, who has one child in Metro schools and two who have graduated from the system, said No Child Left Behind creates an impossible standard of perfection, but the schools are making gains. "The NCLB standard is not the only standard for success in Metro schools," said Teague, a business and technology consultant. "A lot of progress has been made based on earlier plans and earlier leadership and earlier influences." Tammy Grissom, executive director of the Tennessee School Boards Association, agrees. "I think the mayor has several responsibilities I don't know how the mayor would have time to run a school system," she said. "I think there is a separate legislative body that oversees schools for that reason." The mayor is assembling a team to help him identify the problems in Metro schools and introduce new initiatives in Nashville. Danielle Mezera, director of the Mayor's Office of Children and Youth, is Dean's top education adviser and was a major force in bringing Teach for America to Metro. Dean's also hired two new staff members — Candy Markman, who will coordinate afternoon initiatives, and Laura Hansen, a Metro schools employee who was hired to offer the mayor an insider's look at district protocol. "I am building a team to help me with my planning and to help me with the initiatives I would like to see done in the area of reform," he said. "And I am not done yet." While the mayor is building his staff, the board of education is trying to fill a critical position — director of schools. Board members held a retreat Saturday and scheduled dates next month to interview finalists for the position. Pedro Garcia quit in January after conflicts with the board. The board hired a firm to recruit candidates, but the search has been complicated by the district's uncertain future. Dean believes the district should find an interim director until it is clear whether test scores will improve. "One advantage that has been argued for mayoral involvement is that mayors tend to be able to have a little more leeway with who they select for directors," he said. School board Chairman David Fox said the board is continuing its search and acting under the assumption that the district will make gains this year. State officials advised the board to select a more permanent leader, someone who will build on the state's changes. When asked about the mayor's relationship with the board, Fox declined to comment, but said it did appear the mayor was getting things in order. "I assume he is putting himself in a position to have a plan if he is asked to step up," he said.

Davidson County crime log for Oct. 23-26, 2008

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. Oct. 26 Antioch 10:18 p.m., residential burglary, 5100 block Rice Road Donelson 12:27 p.m., holdup/robbery, 400 block Donelson Pike 9:45 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Donelson Pike Hermitage 12:22 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 800 block Briley Parkway 7:34 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 400 block Tulip Grove Road 1:28 p.m., residential burglary, 2100 block Snook Drive 2:19 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 4000 block Andrew Jackson Way Priest Lake 4:49 p.m., residential burglary, 6100 block Mt. View Road South 6:58 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 1300 block Murfreesboro Pike 10:14 p.m., residential burglary, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike 10:32 p.m., residential burglary, 400 block Foothill Drive Oct. 25 Antioch 8:20 a.m., residential burglary, 100 block Hickory Hollow Terrace Donelson 12:50 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 2700 block Old Elm Hill Pike 12:51 p.m., holdup/robbery, 200 block Ellery Court 1:43 p.m., kidnapping, 500 block Donelson Pike Hermitage 4:08 a.m., holdup/robbery, 1000 block Murfreesboro Pike 10:15 a.m., residential burglary, 5800 block Seven Points Trace 10:49 a.m., holdup/robbery, 10 block Fairfield Avenue 2:27 p.m., residential burglary, 800 block Netherlands Drive 7:59 p.m., holdup/robbery, 100 block Spence Lane South 3:26 a.m., holdup/robbery, 900 block Winthorne Drive 6:50 a.m., holdup/robbery, 1900 block Old Murfreesboro Pike 10:59 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 1200 block Antioch Pike 5:54 p.m., holdup/robbery, 5200 block Harding Place 8:08 p.m., holdup/robbery, 2700 block Murfreesboro Pike 9:44 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 5700 block Edmondson Pike Oct. 24 Antioch 5:08 p.m., residential burglary, 4800 block Terragon Trail Donelson 3:48 p.m., residential burglary, 3400 block Harborwood Circle 4:35 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Donelson Pike Hermitage 9:24 a.m., residential burglary, 200 block Millwood Drive 9:58 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 4800 block Lebanon Pike 11:11 a.m., rape, at James Kay Lane 7:13 p.m., residential burglary, 1300 block Tulip Grove Road Priest Lake 2:25 p.m., holdup/robbery, 3000 block Smith Springs Road 10:03 p.m., holdup/robbery, 4300 block Cambridge Drive South 4:01 a.m., holdup/robbery, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike 7:06 a.m., holdup/robbery, 1100 block Murfreesboro Pike 7:45 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 1200 block Lewis Street 9:18 a.m., residential burglary, 1900 block Murfreesboro Pike 11:09 a.m., residential burglary, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike 3:19 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 400 block Metroplex Drive 3:39 p.m., residential burglary, 700 block Bell Road 5:11 p.m., residential burglary, 300 block Cedarcreek Drive 8:02 p.m., shooting, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike Oct. 23 Antioch 5:05 p.m., holdup/robbery, 5200 block Hickory Hollow Parkway 7:05 p.m., residential burglary, 2600 block Oak Forest Drive 9:03 p.m., residential burglary, 2600 block Oak Forest Drive 9:59 p.m., holdup/robbery, 500 block Piccadilly Row Donelson 11:43 a.m., residential burglary, 1800 block Jackson Downs Boulevard 7:06 p.m., residential burglary, 200 block McGavock Pike Hermitage 10:39 a.m., holdup/robbery, 4400 block Lebanon Pike 10:50 a.m., holdup/robbery, 4400 block Lebanon Pike 11:38 a.m., residential burglary, 400 block Yosemite Court 5:12 p.m., residential burglary, 4200 block Laurenwood Drive 8:01 p.m., residential burglary, 4100 block Pepperwood Drive 11:20 p.m., holdup/robbery, 300 block Millwood Drive Priest Lake 6:33 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 2800 block Smith Springs Road 3:44 p.m., residential burglary, 3000 block Anderson Road 6:13 p.m., residential burglary, 3000 block Fieldstone Drive 11:38 p.m., holdup/robbery, 3500 block Roundwood Forest Drive South 4:53 a.m., residential burglary, 800 block Murfreesboro Pike 5:37 a.m., holdup/robbery, 1100 block Murfreesboro Pike 6:18 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 400 block Houston Street 9:58 a.m., nonresidential burglary, 2700 block Murfreesboro Pike 4:36 p.m., holdup/robbery, 5300 block Hickory Hollow Parkway 5:58 p.m., nonresidential burglary, 2700 block Murfreesboro Pike 6:20 p.m., residential burglary, 5800 block Monroe Crossing