Triple N: Nashville News & Notes

Video: Tennessee House Debate On Extending Unemployment Assistance

2010-11-24T06:38:00.000-08:00

This goes back to earlier this year, but the issue of extending unemployment both nationally and locally is still on going, and I just found this back and forth striking. Thought we should document it here for the record.

Representatives Democrat Sherry Jones and Republican Glen Casada spar over how people should eat when federal unemployment runs, if a bill to stop state assistance as well were to pass.

Nashville Election Commission Page Down On Election Day

2010-11-02T06:44:00.000-07:00

It's election day morning, and having missed early voting for the first time in the 3 years or so since I moved to my current area of town; I go onto Nashville Election Commission's site to confirm my polling site as to where I think it is, and get the address so that I can google map it, and make sure I'm able to find it on the way home from work.

So I mosey my mouse on over to there handy "My Polling Location" icon, and I click, and the page is down for maintenance. *blinks*

No, I'm not joking, not making it up, not lying, here's a picture:

[click pick for full view, or adjust your browswer if you cannot see the whole thing]

REALLY! Are you serious election commission? Administrator of Elections, Ray Barrett, got some 'splaining to do.

Regular maintenance to a high traffic site such as this is necessary, but is this the day to be doing it? That's like inviting people over for a Super Bowl party, then shutting off the breaker to do electrical maintance on your house. Today's the day you want to do that? Sure you want to shut off the electricity now, before the big game?

And if it was an unexpected and unplanned maintenance problem, well then PLAN BETTER. Mid-term congressional elections and the Governor's race only come around once every four years. It's not like today snuck up on them by surprise. They only had about 1,459 days to prepare.

Luckily it was the Tennessee Department of State, Division of Elections site to my rescue, with there Voter Information Lookup tab in the left panel.

At least the Nashville Election Commissions Sample Ballot link does work, so you can check out the races and ballot initiatives before stepping into the booth.

Monday Night Crew At Titans Practice

2010-08-23T19:47:00.001-07:00

...Pictures from Saturday August 21 - Titans closed practice in Nashville.

Chris Sims came up to John Grudden all smiles when the offense came off the filed for special teams work

Sims played for Gruden as head coach of the Bucks the last time Sims started in the NFL.

Mike Tirico

Start of Week Three of Titans’ Camp

2010-08-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

The Titans started week 3 of camp with a lighter practice than what’s been seen in the last few previous, hard-hitting, full contact practices. On Monday the team was out in just helmets, jerseys and shorts at Baptist Sports Park.

Coming off the 20 to 18 loss to the Seahawks in Seattle this past weekend, Coach Fisher described the first practice day after the first game.

There are battles at a number of positions that where highlighted in Saturday nights game. In light of one of the front runners for the cornerback spot opposite Cortland Finnegan, Ryan Mouton getting beat by Michael Williams for a 51 yard catch and run, Coach Fisher commented on his resilience saying “he’s bounced back off things last year, and he does on the practice field, and you have to do that at the corner spot. You have to have a very very short-term memory out there, cause you’ve gotta bounce back the next play, and make a play. That’s what Ryan did, I mean, he came back, and hung in there, and played hard; and played well up until he gave up the play. He came back and made a big play…” referring to Mouton recovering to make an interception of a Charlie Whitehurst throwlater in the second quarter.

Fisher said the “corners graded out pretty well for the most part,” having gone without Finnegan due to a hip flexor. If it was a regular season game, Finnegan could have gone, but was not considered worth it for the preseason. Other injuries that kept players out where defensive end William Hayes and safety Vincent with knee injuries; linebacker Stanford Keglar’s hamstring, defensive end Jacob Ford’s hip flexor and defensive end Derrick Morgan with a calf strain.

Another heated completion is for the defensive end spot. With the two aforementioned defensive ends out for Saturday’s games, other guys like Jason Badin got even more reps. Babin talked Monday about tough defensive line coach Jim Washburn saying “Washburn makes a point, to uh, if you don’t get it, we’re going to do it again…we’re going to do it until we get it right.” Coming over from playing for the Eagles last year, He might have not been ready for the fiery coach, stating with widened eyes “my initial reaction when I first got here was, wow; but uh, you know, he wants everybody to do well. He might yell at you, he might talk bad to you, he might say things, and you might say things back to him; but at the end of the day he wants you to succeed. That’s the bottom line.”

Babin previously played for Seattle in 2007 and 2008, and commented on getting a sack in the first preseason game, saying “ah, yeah, it definitely felt good; especially against Seattle. I was there for two years, and that felt good.
There’s a lot of rotation taking place this year with the Titans defensive scheme. In Babin’s estimation “there’s talent all across the board here. There’s no question about that.”

After leading the Titans to a first drive score, Vince Young threw an interception on a flat footed throw that was late and behind; but overall looked more confident in the pocket and more in command. He commented Monday on his and the offense’s development. Young doesn’t feel he has anything to prove, “it’s not so much prove, I know what I can do,” he responded to a question about proving consistency over 16 games. He continued “It’s basically, you know, every series trying to get better and better, continue to lead the team down and get first downs, or get field goals or touch downs. That’s the biggest thing I’m trying to be consistent at.

Following full-team short yard, and two minute drills, the titans ended the day with a series of shuttle runs. They play the Cardinals next Monday in Nashville, who will be without all pro wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who suffered a medial-collateral sprain of the right knee against the Texans this past weekend.

Quotes From Day 1 at Titans Training Camp: Vince, Cj and Fisher

2010-08-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Vince Young

Asked how he feels about the upcoming season, Young stated “I feel excited. I’m very excited, you know 5th year for myself, as well as some other guys that came in with me; as well as some other veteran guys. Commenting on a lot of nice catches that were made by receivers on the first day of camp Young agreed that “oh yeah, oh yeah. It’s like we’re getting back into rhythm, caring OTAs out here to training camp. Like I say, you know, we still got a long way to go. It’s a warm day, a lot of guys had to run the test today [the running shuttle test that former Titan Albert Haynesworth has been in the news for failing in Washington] so a lot of legs was a little bit heavy. But get in the cold tub, you know, but rejuvenate your body back to where you need to.”

Speaking on his comfort with the offense, Young stated that “I feel like I’m very comfortable. Feeling more at home. Definitely know everybody’s job assignment and things like that. So that’s pretty much what I’m doing. I’m kind of like an extra coach, an extra voice for Coach Heimerdinger when someone runs the wrong route or if we have a blitz or something like that, our guys need to adjust a little bit quicker. I couldn’t even do that two and half years ago, or nothing like that, so that’s how much progress there’s been for myself.

Young says he sees “a lot of speed” when asked about Coach Fishers comments that he has the best group of skilled guys around him that he’s had. “A lot of determination” Young continued, “just seeing how Lavelle’s stepping up right now. Dominique [Edison] is doing a great job, Nate Washington is coming around more comfortable with the offense, and you know what [Justin] Gage can do already…so we’re looking pretty good on offense.

On Chris Johnson Young said, “we were doing great without him, in OTAs, in getting more chemistry, and getting better; and different things that we needed to pick up to help him out…he’ll be there, he’ll get it in a little while. He’s doing alright right now, but I know he’s going to do a great job once he get’s back into his rhythm, as well.

Commenting now on the leadership absences of Kyle Vanden Bosch, Keith Bulluck and Kevin Mawae Young stated “Yeah it’s different, you don’t hear Keith Bulluck yelling and make no noise, and things like that. That’s the different thing like myself, Stephen Tulloch, Courtland Fenigan; I’m mean guys like ourself that came in, it’s our 5th year. We picked up a lot of leadership role from them guys when they were here; from Vanden Bosch to Kevin Mawae.

Coach Fisher

Coach Fishers thoughts on Chris Johnson after seeing him in action for the first time since the last game of 2009 was that “He was good, he looked real good. He’s in shape. As for the first day of practice, “it went well” said Fisher. “It was hot. Regardless of what you do leading up to this time over the last 2 or 4 weeks and how hard you work, you still can’t simulate the work load on the practice field; and of course you add the heat to it. “

Coach Fisher emphasized letting the players get acclimated, saying “Were going to go once a day, have a walk through, um, put shoulder pads on for a couple of days with the ideal being we need to get them used to the heat.”

Coach Fisher said that Johnson and linebacker Stephen Tulloch didn’t need to get eased in because “we’ve got training camp numbers, so we’re going to get reps. We’re mindful of the reps, and mindful of the consistent plays…some of the defensive linemen are working, and they’re going to get 4 or 5 plays and then get out. With the rotations and things, we’re being considerate of everything. Fisher went on to say that Tulloch “looked fine, he from my understanding did fine on the shuttle test; he’s moving around. We’re not in pads, you know, and just still the first day.

Speaking of new veteran Tight End acquisition Shaw Ryan, who’s more of a run blocking specialist, especially in the redzone, than a receiver; Fisher stated that “he’s an experienced player, he’s played in a number of offenses, he’s a very very adequate blocker, and he’s physical on the line of scrimmage, and he’s smart and knows how to get open. So, he’ll be a good addition to our roster.

Chris Johnson

Chris Johnson was the guy all the press stood around waiting for. Having finished his shower and gotten dressed, he addressed how he felt about being back with the team after staying away from off-seasons workouts while joking for a new deal. “I’m glad to be outh here with my teammates, and to go out here and get a practice under my belt, and get back comfortable being in the huddle just running the ball and catching the ball, and things like that,” Johnson said. Johnson admitted that there was thought that he might not be here, having to hold out saying “of course there was a time, it was just a thing about sitting back, seeing what happened, seeing what me and the team were going through, and just sitting back and working out just being ready for whenever it was time to be in camp.

This time last year Johnson set a goal of 2,000 yards which he reached in his league Offensive MVP season, this year he’s setting his goal as “trying to break the record, Eric Dickersons record. I was close to doing that last year, so that gives me some motivation for what to do this year.”

He says he heard from and saw a couple of teammates during the off-season, saying “I kept in communication with them.” “We didn’t even talk about football when we saw each other, we were just all relaxing, enjoying our time off.

Responding to whether he is satisfied with his what he’ll be paid for this year CJ reticently pronounced “I wouldn’t say satisfied, but what can I do. I’m just here to play football.” Following up, about if the contract situation gives him more to prove his thoughts were that “of course it gives me more to prove. Every time I step out on the field I want to prove something, so, right now I’m just looking at it as a back having rushed for 2,000 yards twice, so that puts something on my shoulder I can look forward to.

Johnson said “Hopefull” that having another big year this year that it would lead to the big pay day from the Titans. Surprisingly he said that was not a promise or much apart of the negotiations over this off-season, that the Titans “just focused on this year and getting me on the field this year, and getting back and getting ready for the season this year; so, we didn’t talk about ahead of time and years down the road. We just really focused on this year. CJ that there are no hard feelings “I’m just happy to be back with my teammates.
He said there were no issues with his teammates over his time away and that “they just supported me, basically, and I just appreciate them for it.
Coach Fisher said in his interview after practice that Johnson got confused and ran his shuttle test close to practice; when CJ was asked about that he

Jeff Fisher on Bulluck, CJ and Kiffin before Camp

2010-08-01T10:15:00.000-07:00

On Friday Titan’s Coach Jeff Fisher held a pre-training camp press conference on the state of the team at the Titans Baptist Sports Park facility in Metro Center. A lot of the discussion revolved around who would be showing up for camp, who’s no longer a Titan and media controversies that the Titans have become involved in with other figures in the football world.

Camp was set to start on Saturday July 31, with players able to report on Friday; but not required to until Saturday. Many veterans reported early and also voluntarily got their conditioning test out of the way on Friday. Coach Fisher said that the conditioning test that the Titans run players through at the beginning of camp is “similar to the test that you’ve been hearing about the last few days,” referring to reporting of former Titan’s defensive linemen Albert Haynesworth having failed the Redskins condition test 2 days in a row, and being kept out of practice. “We do precisely that test. We do a 300 yard shuttle.”

As for rookies, the Titans got 4 of their 5 remaining rookies signed by Friday night, including coming to terms with receiver Damian Williams from Southern California, their second pick taken in the third round of the draft. Yet, as of Saturday morning defensive end Derrick Morgan of Georgia Tech, their first pick at No. 16 overall still had not signed.

Fisher reasoned that as other first-rounders signed and Williams sees where he is slotted, he’d be likely to sign soon. Coach Fisher expressed “concern” with the state of Williams hamstring, saying “he had a hamstring issue when he left.”
The biggest offseason worry though was to work things out with defending league offensive MVP Chris Johnson. “We got very creative, we had to move some things around,” Coach Fisher stated about coming to an agreement with Johnson. ''CJ's happy. We're happy. I'm expecting him to be in great shape, come in and really pick up where he left off. I have no reservations whatsoever about his conditioning level,'' Fisher said. Johnson had stayed away from Titans workouts all offseason, and was not saying if he would be in camp, until last week when terms were reached in principle.

The other veteran offseason holdout over shadowed by Chris Johnson’s long cast was starting linebacker Stephen Tulloch. When asked if Tulloch would be reporting for camp on time, Fisher matter-of-factly stated that he expect Tulloch would be there since he singed his free agent tender of $2.52 million dollars in June; and that he has no reason to think Tulloch will not participate in preseason games. Tulloch has stayed away from Nashville in protest, wanting a longer term, bigger dollar deal.

There were others who didn’t practice with the team during the offseason, but that was do to injuries. Tackles Tony Brown and Jason Jones didn't practice with the team during the offseason as they recovered from surgeries, nor did linebacker David Thornton with a shoulder injury requiring surgery.

Asked about Keith Bulluck, who recently signed a 1 year free agent deal with the New York Gaints, having stated in a local radio interview that he hadn’t heard from the Titans since February, and that phone calls to the Titans were not returned; Fisher said that account was “not accurate”. Fisher stated that “to my understanding there were some communications,” saying that he believes Bulluck made this decision “in his heart,” and arguing that “would he have been happy here” with the kind of deal that he got in New York. Bulluck suffered a torn ACL last December, dropping the aging former Pro Bowlers value, and making teams, including the Titans iffy on presenting Bulluck a big offer.

Keith Bulluck did not respond to questions about Coach Fishers words when I questioned him about the statements via his twitter Friday night.
To the other recent controversy in the media surrounding the Titans, that of USC’s Lane Kiffin poaching Fisher’s coaching staff, hiring away running backs coach Kennedy Pola without permission from the Titans: the Titans see that as unlawful interference with their contract with Pola, and filed a lawsuit against USC and Kiffin on Monday.

Fisher said that the notion that this lawsuit is regional revenge for Kiffin ditching the University of Tennessee, is “absurd”. When asked about Kiffin’s state that after he and Fisher had spoken on the phone that Fisher may have softened his stance or felt better about the situation, Fisher looked at the questioning reporter with a contorted face, and then dismissed that notion as well.

Fisher moved Craig Johnson from coaching quarterbacks to running backs Wednesday to replace Pola.

Nashville Flood Jobs and FEMA Position on Undocumented Immigrants

2010-05-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

Below are links and numbers for opportunities to access flood related jobs in the area, and to help with FEMA benefits for American children of undocumented parents.

Skilled Job for Concrete Mixer Truck Operator

The Tennessee Department of Labor has a new page to help direct people toward flood related jobs which you can reach via clicking the link beneath the icon below:

http://www.tn.gov/labor-wfd/flood_jobs.html

The 2,500 clean jobs have been filed, but that there are others. If someone cannot access the internet to search at the link above, you should have them call the ennessee Career Center at:

2200 Rosa L Parks Boulevard - (615) 253-8920
3763 Nolensville Pike, Nashville - (615) 741-3556
Ste 210, 621 Mainstream Drive, Nashville - (615) 862-8890

Undocumented Immigrants From Fema's website:
If I am an undocumented immigrant, am I eligible for any assistance from FEMA?

•You may be eligible for short-term, non-cash, emergency aid provided by FEMA.
•You will not be personally eligible for FEMA cash assistance programs (Individuals and Households Program Assistance); however, you may apply on behalf of your U.S. citizen child, or another adult household member may qualify the household for assistance.
•Even if you or your family does not qualify for FEMA cash assistance (Individuals and Households Program Assistance), please call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY for hearing/speech-impaired) for information and to be referred to other programs that can assist you regardless of your immigration status.
If I am an undocumented immigrant, can I apply on behalf of my child who was born in the United States?

•You can apply on behalf of your minor child (under 18 years of age) for FEMA cash assistance (Individuals and Households Program Assistance) if you live together.
•You will not have to provide any information on your immigration status or sign any documents regarding your status.
Do I need a Social Security Number to register for FEMA cash assistance (Individual and Households Program Assistance)?

•If you are applying on your minor child's behalf, you should provide his/her Social Security Number.

Mayor Tours Flood Devastated North Nashville

2010-05-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

Many in Nashville and the surrounding areas where hit hard by the devastating flooding resulting from the more than 13 inches of rain that fell on the mid-state on May 1 and 2, 2010. In response, Metro-Nashville government set up Disaster Information Centers throughout much of the area.

One that started up on Wednesday after the flood was at the Hadley Park Community Center near Tennessee State University in North Nashville. As much of the mainstream media attention was focused on the downtown business district, and the Bellevue communities, the flooding of North Nashville has not been as well publicized. That began to change on Wednesday when Councilman At Large Jerry Maynard brought Mayor Dean over to the center to view services being provided; which included computer access and help with filing FEMA claims via computer, tetanus shots and free legal advice.

The Salvation Army deployed a mobile center to the parking lot of the community center where they provided hot meals and water for free. State Rep Brenda Gilmore, Councilwoman Erica Gilmore and Councilman Lonnell Mathews were also on hand listening to the concerns of citizens, and attempting to provide direction.

Mayor Dean commented at the center that “North Nashville was hit hard by the storm.” Then referencing the Hamilton Rd and Tucker Rd area of Bordeaux, he stated that public works was going to “hit this thing the next couple of days”.

After a short time Mayor Dean, Councilman Maynard and Metro Police Chief Ronald Surpass headed on a caravan tour up 28th Avenue to Ted Rhodes Golf Course on Ed Temple Blvd. The street was blocked off during previous days due to floodwaters that had poured into the road. By Wednesday they had receded back into the golf course, but in some areas were just inches from the street, still.

Mayor Dean spoke with regulars of the course who were surveying the area themselves, such as Booker White of the Nashville Duff Golfers. “The club house is flooded,” White told the Mayor as he approached; worried as to whether they’d be able to have their 22nd annual Sickle Cell Anemia tournament that is scheduled for Memorial Day weekend.

Dean and company moved on North to the County Hospital Rd area of Bordeaux, off of Clarksville Highway. Whites Creek Park was still covered in water, with a pool of water 60 feet long covering the section of road in front of the park between Lagrange and Panorama Dr.

As the Mayor and his contingent walked up Panorama, Annett, who was at her sister Dorothy’s house of 3214 Panorama yelled jubilantly “Thank y’all, y’all finally here. Thank y’all.”

Throughout the neighborhood water had flooded basements, and backyards; but not come into the main part of the houses.

Asked about complaints that attention had not been given to that part of Nashville the same way it had been given to others especially by the media, but nor by the city, Mayor Dean responded, “we’re going to work hard to take care of people across the city.”

From there the tour moved down Clarksville highway to West Hamilton Avenue, where the first impression was that of the site of swollen Whites Creek that was visible from the street. As we approached near Tucker Rd. the grabbing images were those of the rows of debris stacks. Nearly every house along numerous blocks of the street had its contents of dressers, mattresses, living room chairs, washing machines, etc., piled out on the curb.

At the intersection of West Hamilton and Tucker, which is at the foot of the Tucker Rd bridge; neighbors organized a clean up relief area replete with plenty of water for those toiling to clean out house; both residents and volunteers. Setting up at this location was possible because of the striking scene behind their bottled water depot, that of the disheveled concrete of the bridged that looked as if it had been jack hammered. The powerful waters of the Whites Creek reeked havoc the pavement.

Most citizens of Bordeaux were of good spirits, and felt “blessed” despite their losses. Abbey and Bobby Perkins of West Hamilton praised Council Maynard for his responsiveness earlier that week in getting police protection out to the neighborhood when they were worried that unscrupulous perspms might be “casing” the area; and further feeling like they were in a fishbowl for sightseers. “They were just driving by and looking, like we were in a zoo. It makes you not able to concentrate on what you need to do,” Mrs. Perkins said, “so we were so glad to have the police posted in the neighborhood, it made us feel safe”.

Mr. Perkins, added about the volunteer help that they’d received that “we haven’t wanted for nothing. People offering us food, bringing us pizza” Just as he spoke, a young lady asked from the street “do you need any water?” Perkins politely responded “no thank you, then punctuated his previous statement, “see it’s been like this all day.”

Nashville After Flood Information

2010-05-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some updates about what's going on with Nashville after the flood.

- This first thing is just a personal note. They say we're not running out of gas, but I was at the Exxon on Charlotte & I-40 about 5:30 this evening, and they're out of all grades. My suggestion is that you better fill up while you can.

- On the other hand you need to not hoard water. At a press conference this morning it was stressed by a city water official that people's refusal to heed the call to cut back on there water usage by half is going to cause us big problems.

On a good front though, the plant in Donelson that was underwater has now been dried out; but it's not operational yet.

-You can make donations to Middle Tennessee flood relief by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10.

-Metro schools are out for at least the rest of this week; but Metro School teachers and staff are asked to report for work tomorrow.

-Police Chief Ronald Surpass told me this afternoon that the electricity is back on in Metrocenter, but they're only allowing limited access to business owners with credentials and only SUVs because there's still flooding.

- Tomorrow FEMA's Dirctor will visit Nashville.

-The Opryland Hotel announced today that it will take 3 months or more for the resort to come back online. Good news for employees it that they're going to pay employees with benefits for 6 weeks.

Dear President Obama "Who'll volunteer for Tennessee?"

2010-05-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

From CNN's Anderson Cooper 360 blog

AC360° Correspondent Rom Foreman

Reporter's Note: The President is facing a variety of urgent matters at the moment, from the Gulf oil spill to the attempted terror strike. But I’m using my daily letter to the White House to point out one more.

Dear Mr. President,

Sometimes big news stories just get steamrolled by even bigger stories. It’s not right and it’s not fair, and it’s happening to Tennessee right now. The flooding is absolhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

utely awful, and we owe the people there more attention. In between doing research and stories on the attempted terror attack in New York, and the oil spill in the Gulf, I looked at some of the pictures from Nashville this afternoon and I could not believe my eyes.

I don’t know how much time you have spent there, but it really is a lovely state full of very nice folks, and Nashville is a blast. I went there a few years ago with one of my daughters on our way to Space Camp in Alabama and we had so much fun. The Country Music Hall of Fame (now surrounded by water,) Hatch Show Print (ditto,) Ryman auditorium (uh…that too,) and of course the Grand Ole Opry (which is just plain under water.)
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read more...

Emergency Flood Relief Meeting Hosted By Councilman Lonnell Matthews, Jr. Tonight & Wednesday!

2010-05-04T17:40:00.000-07:00

From Councilmen Lonnell's press release:

Friends and neighbors,

I know that there are many questions and concerns all over District 1, and I would like to make myself available to address those concerns. I have schedule two (2) Emergency Flood Relief Meetings to give information and updates to concerned constituents.

The first meeting is Tonight:

Place: Knowles Assisted Living Facilty
1010 Camilla Caldwell Lane
Nashville, TN 37218
615-862-6440

Time: 6:00 pm

The second meeting will be on Wednesday, May 5th:

Place: North Police Precinct
2231 26th Ave. North
Nashville, TN 37208

Time: 4:30 pm

I am also notifying you at the request of the Mayor and the Vice-Mayor to convey the importance of water conservation in the wake of the weekend's floods. There is concern that we could experience a water shortage because one or the city's water treatment plants is down.

Please use water only for cooking and drinking for the next couple of days to ensure that our safe water supply is not depleted. If you have an automated irrigation system, please make sure and turn it off.

The public water supply provided by Metro Water Services continues to be safe. If customers lose water pressure or encounter discolored water, they are asked to contact Metro Water Services at (615) 860-4600.

Many of our neighbors need help. Volunteers can sign up to help with the recovery efforts through Hands On Nashville at www.hon.org. We anticipate volunteer activities being available starting midway through the week after approval from city officials.

If you would like to make a financial contribution to help fellow Nashvillians in need, this can be done through the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee at www.cfmt.org. All proceeds benefit Middle Tennessee flood victims.

For any non-emergency concerns due to the flood please call (615) 862-8574, for all emergencies dial 9-1-1!

Stay safe,

Lonnell

Nashville Under Water

2010-05-03T17:20:00.000-07:00

After more than 7 inches of rain on Saturday, and sever weather sweeping from West Tennessee to Middle Tennessee; many in Nashville woke up Sunday morning to power and utility outages.

As rains kept falling Sunday morning, highways, interstates, utility substations and homes found themselves flooded and submerged in water. From Bellvue in extreme west Nashville, to the Franklin city center in Williamson counter to the south, to the Metrocenter area of Rosa Parks in North Nashville; areas were taking on water way faster than these areas could drain the down pour of precipitation.

The lights were out in the 440 area of Nolensville Rd until late Sunday afternoon. At a near by intersection where the road dips low down an incline, a tow truck sat buried in sitting water with only the top of the window and it's roof top lights showing. Later that afternoon the tow truck was gone; but a van that tried to wade through the impasse was then left sitting in the water.

The closing of bridges into and out of Clarksville made it virtually an island still on Monday; with a one lane road leading in and out of downtown Clarksville. Riverside Road took on water, as the Cumberland continued to crest on Monday.

Even as the rains mostly stopped Sunday evening, and the Sun shown bright Monday; water levels continued to rise in rivers and lakes, as water sitting on the ground had no where else to go.

Wydam hotel took on water up to the hotels marquee. The Ohio National Guard, deployed out of Cincinnati, had to come down and rescue people out of upper floors in motor boats, as the Briely Parkway area had become a river.

Just a little bit further up Briley Parkway, 1,500 guest had to be evacuated from the Opryland hotel; relocated to McGavock High School.

We got pretty flooded out here in Nashville over the weekend, with houses still under water, and it's barely a blip on the national radar. Viewing national news throughout the day I only witnesses minimal coverage on HLN and Fox News. I never saw, in multiple viewings, any coverage on CNN on MSNBC.

Here locally 99.7 Super Talk FM had nonstop coverage of flooding and road closures throughout the day on Sunday until 6:30pm. They allowed the public to call in and ask for directions around the many closures, and to give reports on what was going out in their areas. Channel 2 News stayed with all day coverage on Monday until evening prime time network programs came on.

Monday evening after taking a flyover tour of the area with a state assembly and Congressional delegation, Governor Phil Bredesen held a press conference at Berry Field.

Gov. Bredesen noted in regard to the federal response that he had received a call from President Obama around noon. He then singed papers requesting federal FEMA help on the spot at the press conference, and handed them to a FEMA administrator who was on hand in Nashville.

Davidson County inmates filled tons of sand bag for the levy along the Cumberland; presumably for the levy near Metrocenter. Metrocenter has been closed down until further notice, which has standing water around the area that I observed.

Metro public buses haven't run since Saturday, and MTA announced that it has suspended bus service indefinitely.

As the sun went down Monday, LP Field, the Tennessee Titans Stadium, is literally a pool of water from flooding, as is much of the lower Broadway and downtown areas near the Cumberland.

Pictures From 2010 Silent March In Nashville

2010-04-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

We previously posted about that April 19, 2010 Silent March that reprised the historic march on the same day 50 years earlier. Now we have pictures from the march and post march rally.

All photos and comments by D. Yobachi Boswell

Marchers come together at Jefferson Street Baptist Church

Nashville Black Convenant Coalitions leaders Kenneth Caine and Will Robison survey the scene before march.

Going South on Jefferson St after the underpass.

Jim Lawson giving opening remarks.

Marches listen to speakers at courthouse rally.

Diane Nash reprises her role at the courthouse, again, 50 years to the day she made history when questioning Mayor Ben West about segregation.

Death Penalty advocate speaks to crowd at courthouse rally.

High school student Courtney Kane (front center) is flanked by organizers, and Fisk Studnet DJ on her right, and Pastor Sanders and Ashley on her left.

Nashville’s 2010 Silent March – Reprising History for Modern Justice

2010-04-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

In 1960, armed with the training in non-violent resistance, and an awareness of the depravation of oppression of segregation; Nashville students from Fisk, Tennessee State and American Baptist College began a campaign to integrate lunch counters at Nashville’s downtown restaurants.

The students that willingly filled the jails to push the issue of social justice were represented by prominent black lawyer and Councilman Z. Alexander Looby. In retaliation by the forces of status quo, Looby’s house was fire bombed on April 19, 1960. The students and others hearing of the news that morning gathered in front of Tennessee State on Jefferson Street, and conduct an impromptu march to the Nashville Court House, where the mayor’s office was then contained.

With news camera’s rolling Fisk student Diane Nash confronted Mayor Ben West as to whether he thought it that treatment of blacks in business establishments was right. These events would soon after lead to the desegregation of many public facilities in Nashville.

On Monday April 19, 2010 a group of community organizers and activist calling themselves the THE APRIL 19, 2010 PLANNING COMMITTEE brought the Nashville community together on the anniversary of that 1960 silent march to reengage the public in what they see as an ongoing fight for social justice of various types.

Marchers started gathering in the parking lot of the Jefferson Street Baptist Church around 9:00 am. There were about 200 people on hand by 10:00 am, which was the scheduled meet up time. Eventually, though, the gathering grew to about 350 or so.

The marchers lined up in front of Tennessee State, and started down Jefferson Street, heading south the on east sidewalk, lined up in twos. They passed by historic Fisk, where much of the original training 50 years ago was conducted, all the way into the heart of downtown; crossing over to the court house at James Robertson and 2nd, right before the bridge.

The march marshals in orange traffic vest held back traffic for the marchers to pass street crossing. The marchers remained silent: no chants, no singing, and no sings.
Passers-by in cars and in business parking lots would inquire as to what this was. The marshals were prepared with flyers to inform them. Everything went off without a hitch as they marched to the downtown Nashville Court House, which also holds the Metro Council.

On the steps, young and old, black and white spoke on staying in the fight for social justice; and moving beyond apathy. Speakers ranged from civil rights luminaries James Lawson and Kwame Lillard, to community activist such as Clemmie Greenlee, to high school student Courtney Kane. Also, on hand was Diane Nash, reprising her pivotal role 50 years to day that she helped make history with the original silent march and courthouse protest.

She told the crowd that voting was important, but that the 10 minutes spent in the voting both every two years isn’t enough to be a responsible citizen. She implored the people to take back their government from corporate interest, further stating that “a government of the people, by the people and for the people has perished from the earth.”

Lawson noted in his opening remarks at the rally that:

“If good people will not organize for truth, and beauty, and equal access, then it’s not going to happen. Evil is well organized…While the point is that we are here because we say that we are dissatisfied with the status quo. The status quo must move to a new level of meaning, a new level of humanity…Democracy, where we the people work to make the political institutions and business instructions confirm to the deepest values of humanity.”

Kane, a local high school senior stated:

“There’s so much injustice in our institutions, in the work place, at home. Kids can’t even find a good job…the second that they put their name down, and their address, there’s already a mark on their application, check no; because of where they live. They’re not even able to express to these employers, the quality and the good service that they have to offer because of where they live, and it’s not right.’

Representing labor, Tennessee AFL-CIO representative Jerry Lee commented:

We represent the working people of Tennessee whether they have a union or not…there are many forms of discrimination that is growing in this country among growing numbers of people…today we’re fighting those same battles maybe on a broader front, maybe because we’ve been complacent, maybe because we want to rest a little while; but we cannot rest. We must pick up the gauntlet of injustice wherever it may exist.

The rally dispersed a little before 1:00 pm, with a follow up meeting scheduled for 2:30 that afternoon. If you have further interest in working with the organizers, you can contact Keith Caldwell at 615-419-4214.

Nashville Silent March Flyer

2010-04-18T16:52:00.000-07:00

Aprilteenth's Silent March in Nashville, Monday March, 19 2010

The March includes Civil Rights luminary James Lawson, John Lewis, Diane Nash, and C.T. Vivian.

Tennessee AG and Assembly at Odds Over Opposing Federal Health Care Act

2010-04-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

Last week Tennessee Attorney General Bob Cooper gave a legal opinion on the Tennessee Health Freedom Act that’s working through the state assembly.

The Tennessee Health Freedom Act, which has already been passed by the Senate, and is making it’s way through the House; would require the Attorney General to sue the federal government if the feds were to penalize any Tennessean for not obtaining health care insurance under the federal health care reform act that was passed and signed into law at the end of March.

In summary AG Cooper writes in his opinion about attempting to litigate under the mandates of the House and Senate bills challenging the federal legislation

A court would likely determine that SB 3498/HB 3433 and HJR 745 are preempted by conflicting provisions of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

He further notes in detail that:

“Congressional power to preempt state law arises from the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution. The Supremacy Clause provides that the laws of the United States “shall be the supreme law of the land; and the judges in every state shall be bound thereby, any thing in the Constitution or laws of any state to the contrary notwithstanding,” U.S. Const. art. 6, cl. 2. Accordingly, a state statute cannot “stand as an obstacle to the accomplishment and execution of the full purposes and objectives of Congress.”

In short, the AG is of the legal opinion that these state laws don’t matter, as they cannot preempt federal law, or be enforced. Cooper says he will not be able to act as council on behalf of the state in defense of such a laws, writing “this Office could not act as counsel for the State pursuant to such a statute. Compare Tenn. Code Ann. § 8-6-109(b)(9) (Attorney General has a duty to defend the constitutionality and validity of all State legislation, except in those instances where the Attorney General is of the opinion that such legislation is not constitutional).”

Republican Rep. Mike Bell, who sponsored the bill in the House, dismissed the the AG’s statement as one man’s opinion; and Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey stated that the assembly would seek other legal representation if the AG would not.

But it’s not simply one man’s opinion; but that of the state officer charged with enforcing the law in Tennessee, and holding Tennessee constitutional powers.

Nonetheless, on Monday night the house voted 66-29 for a non-binding resolution expressing opposition to the federal healthcare act. Without amendment, the house spent 2 hours debating and passing an unenforceable statement that was originally proposed in the fall. The statement makes references to former proposal that did not even make it into the federal health care act, such as a opposing a federally run government health plan. In this original form the resolution makes reference that "Congress is considering legislation...," though the legislation has passed, and been signed into law.

Even Republican supporting the bill became frustrated with the seemingly purposeless debate, with Rep. Curry Todd, stating on the floor that "I've been up here 12 years, and this is one of the most ridiculous nights I've ever seen. This is totally asinine."

The House also took up a bill sponsored by Rep. Matthew Hill, that would prohibit any health insurance plan created through the federal health care act’s insurance exchanges from providing abortions coverage. That bill passed 70 – 23.

For the Senate’s part, Speaker Ramsey pushed through a bill 21- 7 urging AG Cooper to contest what the bill calls “unconstitutional” provisions in the health care reform act.

Tennessee Health Freedom Act Takes Another Step In The State House

2010-04-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

The Tennessee Health Freedom Act moved forward in the state house on Wednesday (March 31), with a subcommittee vote that sends the issue to the full Commerce Committee for approval. Passage of the act by the full committee would lead to a vote on the floor by the full House of Representatives.

The Senate already passed the bill in February. The Tennessee Health Freedom Act would require the Attorney General to sue the federal government if the feds were to penalize any Tennessean for not obtaining health care insurance under the federal health care reform act that was passed and signed into law at the end of March.

About a hundred conservative activists who filled the halls outside of the Commerce Subcommittee meeting room erupted into cheers and applause as the measure passed. They followed suit when a republican bill to amend the constitution to prohibit forced participation in health care insurance also passed. That bill is sponsored by Rep Susan Lynn who also favors a state nullification that they think would allow Tennessee to ignore federal law, as Tripple N previously wrote about here.

All of this legislation is part of a political movement that seeks, and sought even before national health care reform was passed; to mute, limit and hopefully nullify reform coming out of Washington. The most widely disputed aspect may be the individual mandate to buy health insurance, or be penalized with fines.

Unlike other aspects of the health care reform bill, which will begin to take effect almost immediately, the individual mandate won't go into effect until 2014. Many states Attorney Generals have, or are pledging to take suit against the federal government to block implementation of federal reform measures.

Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum filed a lawsuit just two days after Congress passed the health reform bill, and on the same day that President Obama signed it into law, alleging that the legislation is unconstitutional. His suit was joined by 13 other states attorney generals. Virginia’s attorney general has filed a separate suit.

The next Tennessee Commerce Committee vote on the proposed bills is next Wednesday.

How Tennessee Representatives Voted On the Final Health Care Reform Bill

2010-03-27T11:25:00.000-07:00

Thirty-four of a little over 250 Democratic representatives voted against the Senate version health care reform bill that became law Sunday night. Two of the 34 are from Tennessee: Lincoln Davis and John Tanner.

As in the November House vote, all Tennessee Republicans voted against the package: Phil Roe, John Duncan, Zack Wamp, and Marsha Blackburn.

One Representative who voted against the November house health care bill, voted in favor of the more conservative Senate bill this time. Middle Tennessee Rep. Bart Gordon, amid controversy surrounding rumor that he was offered the position of NASA administrator if he voted in favor of health care reform (a rumor for which he and the administration denies); voted for reform this time.

In a statement Gordon said:

“In the end, the question I'm faced with is this: will this reform be better for Middle Tennessee than the status quo? I think it will. That's why I believe passing meaningful health care reform is essential and why I have made my decision to help ensure health care is affordable for Middle Tennesseans today and for generations to come.”

Despite all the ballyhoo and lambasting by liberals for months, Blue Dog Democrat Jim Cooper voted in favor of both health care bills that came to the house floor, in November and this past weekend. Memphis Rep Steve Cohon was the other of the Tennessee Contingent to vote in favor of the bill.

For his part, Democrat John Tanner, in explaining his no vote, in part wrote on his website:

“There is no question our health care system needs reform. Since the outset of this national dialogue, I have talked with many West and Middle Tennesseans about how we can identify and fix what is broken within our system. Chief among these goals is the long-term reduction in health care costs for families, employers and the government…“After thorough and careful review of the legislation, I am unconvinced that the long-term trend of rising health care costs is adequately addressed and am therefore unable to support the legislation.”

Fair Lending Legislation Hearing Tuesday March 23

2010-03-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

From organizer Melissa Gordon:

Hello All, As many of you know, I recently started working ajavascript:void(0)t the Neighborhoods Resource Center as a Neighborhood Organizer. I am advocating for fair lending policies in Tennessee with the Coalition for Responsible Lending in Tennessee. I am sure we all know someone or have experienced the debt trap of predatory lending. Imagine being a single mother that borrows 80.00 against her car title to pay her childcare. Imagine paying 35% of your tax refund to have it deposited in your account three weeks early because your heating bill increased during the cold 2010 Tennessee winter. Stories like these are common realities because too many people turn to predatory loans (refund anticipation, car title, payday) during financial crisis. Show your support by being present march 23rd so we can create fair lending policies in Tennessee!

If you have questions or comments, contact me at (615)72-8212.

Thanks,

Melissa Gordon
Neighborhood Organizer
Neighborhoods Resource Center

Dear Friends of the Coalition for Responsible Lending in Tennessee,

I am writing because we need your help. We need people to attend an upcoming hearing about payday and title lending that is taking place in the Tennessee Legislature on Tuesday, March 23rd at 10:30 am. We anticipate that it will be in Room HHR30, but it is possible that it will be in a nearby room (we will be on hand to direct people).

The Utilities and Banking Subcommittee of the House Commerce Committee will consider several pieces of legislation related to small dollar predatory lending. One of those bills will cap the interest rate for payday lending at 100% APR.

We want to send the message that 100% is ENOUGH!!

Obviously, many of us think that 100% is far more than enough and would like to see a more reasonable cap set. The Coalition for Responsible Lending in TN will continue to work toward that aim, but as we build the necessary constituency to make such a change, we would like the industry to tell us why they think 100% isn't enough. That should be interesting, don't you think?

I am in the process of finalizing talking points related to the legislation under consideration. I will send those out soon.

Please, forward this email to anyone you think would be interested in the issue.

We need to pack the room on Tuesday. Can you be there? Please, let me know.

If you can arrive early, that is strongly advised.

Thanks

Nashville Youth Rally

2010-03-19T13:06:00.001-07:00

*About the Garnett-Nabrit Lecture Series
as delivered to me from Keith Caldwell

The Garnett-Nabrit Lecture Series began in 1957 and occurs annually in March at the American Baptist College and Baptist World Center complex in Nashville, TN.

The Garnett-Nabrit Lecture Series was named in honor of the leadership of James Henry Garnett and James Madison Nabrit. Garnett was a teacher of Systemic Theology and New Testament Greek at American Baptist Theological Seminary from 1924 to 1938. He served as the seminary’s dean from 1927 to 1939. During a portion of that time, from 1930 to 1932, he provided leadership as the acting president.

James Madison Nabrit was president of American Baptist Theological Seminary from 1936 to 1944. His eight-year tenure advanced the institution and brought forth the development of the National Baptist Training School for Christian Workers.

Garnett and Nabrit are landmarks in the legacy of great leadership provided to American Baptist College. Their example of innovation and integrity are recognized annually through the Garnett-Nabrit Lecture Series.

The goal of the GNL Series is to provide a national dialogue around topics which challenge the modern day church to keep up with the changing needs of society. The lecture series seeks to accomplish this by bringing together American Baptist College alumni, clergy and laity of various faith communities, educational institutions and the Nashville community to engage in conference topics. The lecture series also serves as an excellent medium to initiate and culminate national fund-raising efforts on behalf of the college.

Tennessee State University Named to 2009 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll

2010-03-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

Vanderbilt was granted the distinction last year, but this year it's Tennessee State.

Below is the official TSU press releases from Cheryl Bates-Lee
Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Public Affairs
615-963-5331

------------------------
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tennessee State University Received National Recognition for Community Service, Named to President’s Honor Roll
University listed as the only Tennessee institution with distinction

Nashville, TN – March 2, 2010 –Tennessee State University has been named to the 2009 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll with Distinction, the highest federal recognition a college or university can receive for its commitment to volunteering, service-learning and civic engagement. TSU is the only higher education institution in Tennessee named to the 2009 Distinction List. TSU was also selected as a Community Service Honor Roll honoree in 2008.

“I am extremely proud of our selection to the President’s Higher Education Community
Service Honor Roll. This honor is a fitting tribute to our students, faculty, staff and alumni who have worked diligently to make community service and service learning an integral component of our academic programs. It also strengthens our commitment to be recognized as one of our nation’s most engaged universities,” said Melvin N. Johnson, president of Tennessee State University.

The Corporation for National and Community Service, which administers the annual Honor Roll award, recognized more than 700 colleges and universities for their impact on issues from poverty and homelessness to environmental justice. On campuses across the country, thousands of students joined their faculty to develop innovative programs and projects to meet local needs using the skills gained in their classrooms. Business students served as consultants to budget-strapped nonprofits and businesses, law students volunteered at legal clinics, and dozens of others organized anti-hunger campaigns.

“Congratulations to Tennessee State University and its students for their dedication to service and commitment to improving their local communities,” said Patrick Corvington, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. “Our nation’s students are a critical part of the equation and vital to our efforts to tackle the most persistent challenges we face. They have achieved impactful results and demonstrated the value of putting knowledge into practice to help renew America through service.”

The Honor Roll includes six colleges and universities that are recognized as Presidential Awardees, with an additional 115 named to the Distinction List and 621 schools named as Honor Roll members. Honorees are chosen based on a series of selection factors including the scope and innovation of service projects, percentage of student participation in service activities, incentives for service, and the extent to which the school offers academic service-learning courses. Click here for a full list of Honor Roll recipients.College students make a significant contribution to the volunteer sector; in 2009, 3.16

million students performed more than 300 million hours of service, according to the
Volunteering in America study released by the corporation. Each year, the corporation
invests more than $150 million in fostering a culture of service on college campuses
through grants awarded by its programs; the education awards that AmeriCorps members
receive at the conclusion of their term of service to pay for college; and through support of training, research, recognition, and other initiatives to spur college service.

The corporation oversees the Honor Roll in collaboration with the Department of Education, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Campus Compact and the
American Council on Education.

Lt. Gov Ron Ramsey Wants Corporate Donations...For the Good of Campaigns

2010-03-11T08:46:00.001-08:00

Tennessee Senate Speaker/Lt. Gov Ron Ramsey apparently doesn't think the supreme court went far enough in deciding that corporations have the same speech rights as individual human citizens in airing ads at any time during a campaign. He wants more.

Lt Gov. Ron Ramsey

As quoted by the Nashville Scene at the First Tuesday Club meeting on Febuary 2nd, Ramsey stated:

A lot of people think that now I, Ron Ramsey, candidate for state Senate, can take contributions from corporations. We can't. What can happen is corporations can pool their money and run independent expenditures. Me as a state senator whether I'm running for office or whether I'm running for governor ... I want to be able to control my message. So it scares me just a tad. So I think what we need to do in the state of Tennessee is what about 28 other states do and allow direct corporate contributions to candidates here in the state of Tennessee. It will allow you to control your message. ... I am for full disclosure.

Wow, if those aren't some logical gymnastics, I don't know what is.

Rasesy is trying to tell us that getting direct legal bribes from coporations is some how better so that he can control his message. Yes, because that's what the purpose of government for the people, and by the people is all about; politicians personal PR campaigns.

Tennessee Hospitality Association CEO Sends Degrading Michelle Obama Email To Public Officials

2010-03-08T10:33:00.000-08:00

Tennessee Hospitality Association CEO Walt Baker's sent out an email last week to 12 prominent Nashvillians in which Michelle Obama is compared to a Chimpanzee.

Tennessee Hospitality Association was instrumental in the development of the new Nashville Convention Center project.

On Saturday the publicly funded Convention and Visitors Bureau announced that it would be canceling its $50,000 marketing contract with Baker's company.

CVB president Butch Spyridon is one of the people Baker sent the email to.

Here is the original email sent by Barker:

From: Walt Baker To: Albie DelFavero, Bruce Dobie, Butch Spyridon, Joe Hall, Peter Heidenreich, Terry Clements, Toby Compton, Chuck Creasy, Rob Moorefield, Ken Whitehouse, Paul Brown, Bob Davis Date: March 4, 2010 9:18:29 PM CST
Quoting Larry the Cable Guy...I don't care who you are, this is funny...

I was at the store yesterday, and I ran into Tarzan! I asked him how it was going and if he was into anymore movies.  

He told me that he could no longer make any more movies as he had severe arthritis in both shoulders and could no longer swing from vine to tree.

 I asked how Jane was doing, he told me she was in bad shape, in a nursing home, has Alzheimer's and no longer recognizes anyone, how sad. I asked about Boy, and he told me that Boy had gone to the big city, got hooked up with bad women, drugs, alcohol, and the only time he heard from him was if he was in trouble or needed something. 

I asked about Cheeta, he beamed and said she was doing good, had married a Lawyer and now lived in the White House!!!

Butch Spyridon, in a CVB president press release said:

"On behalf of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau, I apologize for the offensive email sent yesterday by Tennessee Hospitality Association CEO Walt Baker. As a recipient of the email, I am embarrassed for my organization and myself. The content is deeply hurtful to all Nashvillians and beyond. The attitudes expressed in the email are both appalling and unacceptable, and are not shared or condoned in anyway by the NCVB or by me personally.

Nashville's hospitality industry has worked tirelessly to create a welcoming environment for our visitors and this behavior discredits the work done by so many. After serious consideration, the NCVB has terminated its contract with Mr. Baker's marketing agency, Mercatus Communications. I have communicated this action and my deep regrets about the email to the Mayor's Office and other hospitality industry leaders."

Bakers apology with his contention that the email was not meant to be racist, nor insulting:

"Thursday night I spontaneously forwarded -- to a small group of people -- an email that had been sent to me as political humor. As I forwarded it, I did not think or consider its implications, other than that it was political humor. I am saddened that anyone misinterpreted the sentiments behind the email. I deeply apologize to anyone who is offended by this action. I hope that those who know me realize that the message was not intended to be malicious or hurtful in any way and can find it in their hearts to forgive me."

Kyle Vanden Bosch Signs With Detroit Lions

2010-03-05T08:53:00.000-08:00

The 3 time Pro Bowl defensive end, effectionately known in Nasvhille as KVB is apparently on his way out of town.

According to the Nashville City Paper

Vanden Bosch agreed to a four-year contract with the Lions on Friday morning worth $26 million. His agent Tony Agnone confirmed to The City Paper that the agreement had been reached between the Lions and his client.

Vanen Bosch has been known for his nonstop motor in agressively pursuing quarter backs. But last year after Albert Haynesworth left the endside of the line for Washington, KVB only registered 3 sacks.

I wouldn't sign for 4 years, especially at that amount, a 31 year old End who just came off a subpar year; but these are the Lions we're talking about. They're not exactly known for good decisions and success.

Having been a fan favorite, Kyle Vanden Bosch will be missed in Nashville though.

A ten year fan favorite, Keith Bulluck, is still on deck. Keith spent a lot of last night, retweeting sentiments from Titans fans urging him to stay, and the Titans to pay him; such as the following:

RT @Janeydd @kbull53 the titans need to pay this man! you are the heart and soul of the Titans let him go and he'll prove you wrong!
about 13 hours ago via Twittelator

Reply Retweet RT @wilo_8 @kbull53 please don't go anywhere!!!!
about 13 hours ago via Twittelator

Reply Retweet RT @Noisemaker52 @kbull53 Please dnt leave Ca$hville. We need you here in Tennessee. PLEASE DNT LEAVE US!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
about 13 hours ago via Twittelator

Bulluck's twitter is http://twitter.com/kbull53

Internet Message From Austin Crash Plane Pilot

2010-02-18T10:26:00.000-08:00

Joe Stack, who’s house was set a blaze today, is believed to be the pilot of the plane that crashed into the Austin office building which contains IRS offices.

It’s been rumored for the last hour that the house fire and plane crash were linked; though authorities have not confirmed. Nonetheless, a now single page website containing a rambling message from Joe Stack has been found.

Whois.com has the site registered to Stack at a San Marcos, TX address, a small college town about 30 minutes south of Austin. The site has been registered since 2003, and the registration records were last updated in 2006; so it would appear that this site was not created post crash as a hoax.

Austin News Channel 7 reports that a neighbor of the house that was burned confirmed that the house belong to a Joseph Andrew Stack III, who is a pilot who ownes his own plane.

The one page website has no banner, no sidebars, no buttons, and only a couple of links. Just black text on a white page (except a section of IRS tax code in red); and it ends with:

Joe Stack (1956-2010)
02/18/2010

Being a 7 year old site, one must believe that Stack deleted all other info he may have had on the site, and stripped it down to this one page to focus attention only on his final rating declaration.

If this is the actual pilot’s writings, he gives some insights into his motives, which seemed aimed at the IRS. The piece starts off with the words "If you’re reading this, you’re no doubt asking yourself, “Why did this have to happen?”

It then goes on later to say:

“My introduction to the real American nightmare starts back in the early ‘80s. Unfortunately after more than 16 years of school, somewhere along the line I picked up the absurd, pompous notion that I could read and understand plain English. Some friends introduced me to a group of people who were having ‘tax code’ readings and discussions. In particular, zeroed in on a section relating to the wonderful “exemptions” that make institutions like the vulgar, corrupt Catholic Church so incredibly wealthy. We carefully studied the law (with the help of some of the “best”, high-paid, experienced tax lawyers in the business), and then began to do exactly what the “big boys” were doing (except that we weren’t steeling from our congregation or lying to the government about our massive profits in the name of God). We took a great deal of care to make it all visible, following all of the rules, exactly the way the law said it was to be done.

The intent of this exercise and our efforts was to bring about a much-needed re-evaluation of the laws that allow the monsters of organized religion to make such a mockery of people who earn an honest living. However, this is where I learned that there are two “interpretations” for every law; one for the very rich, and one for the rest of us… Oh, and the monsters are the very ones making and enforcing the laws; the inquisition is still alive and well today in this country.

That little lesson in patriotism cost me $40,000+, 10 years of my life, and set my retirement plans back to 0. It made me realize for the first time that I live in a country with an ideology that is based on a total and complete lie. It also made me realize, not only how naive I had been, but also the incredible stupidity of the American public; that they buy, hook, line, and sinker, the crap about their “freedom”… and that they continue to do so with eyes closed in the face of overwhelming evidence and all that keeps happening in front of them.

Before even having to make a shaky recovery from the sting of the first lesson on what justice really means in this country (around 1984…”

The Fbi pulled down his site at: http://embeddedart.com/ - but expecting that this would happen, I saved the comeplete text here

-

Plane Crashes Into Office Building In Austin Texas

2010-02-18T08:26:00.000-08:00

Early reports of the Thursday morning crash had that a small plane had crashed into a local FBI building; but now it's being reported by News Channel 8 in Austin that official have said the building where the crash too place is adjacent to the building housing the FBI.

Austin Plane Crash
Photo courtesy of coloursmarie

The crash took place at 9400 block of Research Boulevard.

KGNB News reports that "Austin-Travis County EMS Assistant Director James Shamard said smoke is visible for at least a mile and that paramedics have set up a triage center at the scene."

Will update as details come in.

Local Fox 7 in Austin says the crash took place between 9:30 and 9:45 central time.

It was a small single engine airplane.

Hit a 7 story building in North Austin, near the air port, off of I-183

11:08 central Press Conference:

Fire Department representative Terry Evans

Two individuals transported to the hospital, 1 person unaccounted for.

They shut down the power grid

“Fire continues to burn…but we’re offensive and inside the structure.”

No deaths reported at this point.
"
There are some federal offices in that building that was hit"

"It appears the plane struck about the second floor...that's very preliminary"

James Holly, Division Chief with Ems

“do not have confirmation on where it came from [the plane]

Tea Party Convention Comes To Nashville With Much Controversy

2010-02-03T06:50:00.000-08:00

The National Tea Party Convention is in Nashville this weekend, but not without significant controversy.

The convention is capitalizing on the energy of the grassroots organized, but often Republican Party fanned movement, that mounted up first in early 2009 in opposition to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, better known as the federal stimulus package; and then in opposition to national healthcare reform in August.

But rumblings have been heard for weeks now over the nature and purpose of the convention as constructed. Allegations started from local Nashville Tea Partiers that the event was basically a for-profit sham, co-opted by the national republican party; whereas activist in the movement see the movement as something meant to be grass-roots and party independent.

In December some convention steering committee members began to quit the committee in protest, and took to the internet to denounce the convention, the convention organizing entity, Tea Party Nation, and its president Judson Phillips; blasting its $549 registration price. The complaint from defectors tends around the notion that movement people are mostly working and middle class folks who can’t afford a price tag like that, and that the event is really for elites. Some have called it nothing more than a Republican Party fundraiser.

Further, Tea Party Nation is not a non-profit activist organization; but a for-profit business set up by Philips in April 2009 after he helped organize two of Nashville’s earliest Tea Party events at the capital in Downtown Nashville. Judson is a lawyer in Williamson County just south of Nashville.

Not only is Tea Party Nation a for-profit business, but the convention’s chief merchandiser is also a for-profit company set up to capitalize on the movement. Tea Party Emporium is self-described on it’s website as follows:

Tea Party Emporium was established by jewelry industry veterans, a family who has manufactured the world's finest gold and diamond jewelry for over one hundred years. Today, inconspicuous, as opposed to conspicuous, consumption is very much in vogue. Affluence and the attainment of wealth seem to have fallen out of favor. What has not changed is appreciation for something beautiful. In that vein, and in the light of the current climate of a government hell bent on the largest redistribution of wealth in history, we designed a small, delicate piece of jewelry which we hope will galvanize feelings felt by millions of Americans.

The site does say that “a portion of proceeds will be donated to the Heritage Foundation”, though not what portion. The Heritage Foundation is a conservative establishment, policy think tank, and not exactly a grassroots movement organization.

It all really started to break down publicly when Kevin Smith owner of a Nashville web design company, and webmaster for Tea Party Nation, posted a 6,000 plus word piece entitled “On the Backs of Tennessee’s Middle Class (or, The Story Behind Tea Party Nation’s Dishonest Beginnings)” on his personal website.

Smith lamented how Phillips took advantage of his volunteer services in building a site for Tea Party Nation, just to see Phillips then go register what he thought would be an activist organization as a for-profit business; as well as various funding discretions, including acceptance of donations when Tea Party Nation has no separate non-profit arm to process such donations through.

Nationally, RedState.com's Erick Erickson began taking umbrage, mostly with concern for Sarah Palin's reputation. From there many national mainstream publications begin picking up the story.

Then the most well known Tea Party group sponsoring the convention, the American Liberty Alliance backed out on January 13th, announcing its disentanglement via a statement posted to the Alliance’s webite* from Odom partially stating that:

“Earlier yesterday we announced our support of the National Tea Party Convention in Nashville this February. At the time, we were basing our support on limited knowledge of those involved and we trusted that all was well…But at this point, we have to respond to the concerns and wishes of our membership. And quite a few of our members have asked that we consider sitting this one out.”

Odom would further go on to write that the fact of Tea Party Nation being a for profit business in-and-of itself is not the deterrent that gave the Alliance pause, stating that:

“To be clear, the for-profit model has its place in the movement. Many, MANY groups in the movement operate this way. But these groups should always have boards and oversight, and should never, ever process donations through personal paypal accounts.”

A January 4th Tea Party Nation press release about the convention that thanked Odom and the American Liberty Alliance for their support, also announced that the Tea Party Express will be rolling in and joining us for the convention.

The Tea Party Express, which goes by the slogan Just Vote Them Out, is an outfit that the Alliance had already labeled as an astroturf organization back in the fall of 2009, a pejorative termed used in rightwing activist circles to refer to what are seen as counterfeit organizations that only appear to operate on principle on the surface, but have other ulterior underlining motives. The Huffington Post reports that:

“Tea Party Express, operated by Our Country Deserves Better PAC, is a series of bus tours which travel the country holding rallies and fundraisers that garner FOX News coverage. Sal Russo, chief strategist for Our Country Deserves Better, is also principal partner at Russo Marsh & Rogers (aka Russo Marsh & Associates), a Republican-affiliated public relations firm in Sacramento. Joe Wierzbicki, another RM&W principal, is the PAC's coordinator.”

Finally, last week, two of the three most prominent speakers backed out, Republican Representatives Michelle Bachmann of Minnesota and Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee. Keynote speaker Sara Palin has maintained her intent to speak, yet; found herself feeling the need pledge her 100,000 plus speaking fee to charity.

Bachmann and Blackburn, citing concerns about possible campaign finance violations, withdrew from participating in the convention.

Photographer Makes House Into Ice Sculpture

2010-02-02T12:28:00.000-08:00

In a video posted on WSMV News Channel 4's website (seen here: http://www.wsmv.com/video/22407896/) is displayed an unusal piece of artistry.

The news narrotor says that Detriot Photographer Gregory Holm is making "a statement about hundreds of thousands of abondanded homes" in the area. The house was donated by the state for as an "installation art piece".

Holm says "there's a lot of uses for these homes, you know. You can turn it into art, you can salvage the wood and recycle it."

Hmm. Well here's an ideal: maybe you could let the homeless live in the "homes". A novel thought, I know; but just a thought.

I mean the government has money to throw around to give houses away for art; I'd think they could work with a struggling family to get back on its feat. But I'm kind strange like that.

In Nashville check out the Homeless Power Project

Music City Convention Center Passes Metro Council

2010-02-01T17:19:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday night, January 19, Metro-Nashville County Council voted 29 to 9 to pass the $585 million downtown Nashville convention center. Music City Center, as it will be called, looks to be open in 2013, having already scheduled its first convention.

Despite opposition from the likes of Councilmen Mike Jameson and Eric Cantor, the vote was a forgone conclusion by the time council members arrived at the court house. In comments before the vote Councilman Michael Craddock noted this fact, yet proceed to give his exegesis of opposition.

"I've got to vote no because I believe in the people that make this city up. I believe in the hardworking men and women who work 50, 60, 70 hours a week just to get by, just to buy their groceries," Craddock said. "There is a voice out there, ladies and gentlemen, and you've all heard it, and it's as loud as can be not to do this."

Councilman Crafton, for his part, proposed a resolution that would have put the Music City Center up for a public referendum vote, much like that for the building of the Titans stadium. The proposal was defeated.

Council Black Caucus members, led by Lonnell Matthews and Jerry Maynard, apparently dropped previously stated possible opposition if minority contracting was not sufficiently apart of the plans, as all Black Caucus members voted in favor of passage; though ORDINANCE NO. BL2010-611, which would have most guaranteed minority consideration has been deferred indefinitely after passing only the first reading.

Music City Center will have 545,000 square feet of exhibit, ballroom, meeting and retail space and also includes a 1,800-space parking garage. By comparison, the current Convention Center, has only 150,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space.

Debate at City Council Remains Heated Over Building Convention Center

2010-02-01T07:14:00.000-08:00

[From January 15th publication in the pride]

With a last vote on public financing for a $585 million convention center in downtown Nashville soon approaching, the critical rhetoric by some councilmen is heating up. At the Metro Council meeting on Monday January 11, frequent critic, Councilman Mike Jameson, challenged and attacked the accuracy and authenticity of a report on the feasibility of building the planned center.

Music City Center, as it would be known, will gobble up a large portion of downtown, behind the Nashville Arena, formerly Sommet Center; uprooting a number of businesses already located in that are, including the downtown Greyhound bus station for instance.

In questioning HVS Consulting about the feasibility and economic impact studies that the firm constructed for the council, Jamerson seized on language in the report that was similar to language in reports that HVS had done for other cities regarding building convention centers; in particular a portion that state the city was unique in away that would buffer convention city profitability from economic cycles and downturns.

Jamerson read from HVS reports to Milwaukee, Wisconson; Sante Fe, New.Mexico; Omaha, Nebraska and Columbus, Ohio; that contained almost word for word the same language. Jamerson bristled at HVS representative Tom Hazinski, that “…when you then tell us that Nashville’s different, I go back and look at the language that you’ve given to Nashville, and you’ve given that to so many other cities that are competitors.”

Eric Cantor also had critical questions for the consulting firm, asking Hazinski how many out of approximately 250 studies conducted by HVS have discouraged cities from going forward with building convention centers. Hazinski answered that “I would say slightly over half the projects that we’ve worked on have not proceeded.”

While HVS was being grilled inside, competing sides of the debate rallied outside the Council meeting on the courthouse lawn. Supporters where addressed by Mayor Karl Dean, who once again made his case in favor of publicly funding the convention center, which he says will pay for its self through visitors’ tax revenues.

Another critical issues surrounding the convention center project that could have an impact on voting is the council’s Black Caucus’ issues with the awarding of contracts related to the convention center to minority business. Chairman of the Council Black Caucus Councilman Lonnell Matthews, who has been engaged in meetings and consultation with the Metro Development and Housing Agency and Mayor Dean, has expressed optimism in recent days.

Councilman At Large Jerry Maynard has stated that the issue could be the deciding factor on how he votes on the project.

The council vote on the proposed convention center is scheduled for January 19 .

Snow and Icy Weather Hits Nashville

2010-01-31T20:38:00.000-08:00

Well, you can read the weather report anywhere. Here's a personal experience that sums up what the ice and snow have done to my weekend.

I spent early afternoon standing on my balcony watching ice derby, with cars spinning their wheels trying to make it up the hill of the parking lot, and then watching them slide back down backwards. LOL.

I was running from one end the building to other to see if they were going to make it. One guy with four wheel drive finally made it up on his second attempt.

In the late afternoon the ice finally seemed to be slushing out. I guess it got warm enough to start melting. Wonder what it will be like tomorrow morning. I'm not taking any chances to go work. That's why I have leave. I'll just extend my weekend if there's the slightest chance of me sliding around.

About half an hour later:

Well, I tried to drive out of here. I got out of the parking lot, up the first street, then once I turned onto the street that was up hill; I got half way up, hit ice, and spent my wheels a little. So I gave that up pretty quick, maneuvered back down hill in reverse, and came back home.

I'm about to email my manager and tell her I won't be there in the morning. We'll see what the ice is like later in the day.

Video Report from USA Today:

State Assembly Woman Susan Lynn Calls for Health Care Nullification Bill

2010-01-31T20:14:00.000-08:00

[Originally from December 31 2009]

On Mike Church’s Sirius satellite radio show, Tennessee State Assembly Representative Susan Lynn of District 57 (Mt. Juliet) announced both a health care nullification bill and state health care constitutional amendment planned for Tennessee.

Rep Susan Lynn

-
Nullification is the latest tactic that has grown out of the political Right’s tea party movement after having failed to stop passage of health care bills in both U.S. House and Senate; despite much publicized and highly rancorous town halls this past summer, and marches on the National Mall in Washington D.C. this fall.

Right now the two congressional bills are awaiting reconciliation when Congress return from holiday vacation, in order to come up with one combined bill for a final vote.

On December 28, Lynn took to the airwaves with conservative radio host Church to express her thoughts. Nashville Post Politics transcribes the most specific part of the conversation to this point to have been as such:

Mike: Let me move on to another area, here, of this same discussion here, then. Wouldn’t it be prudent to pursue this in the state legislature and have an absolute piece of legislation, a law that says, uh, not so fast, Charlie, we’re just going to make that law null and void and illegal in Tennessee. We are not going to allow the federal government to subjugate our citizens into some kind of slavery here that they have to buy anything. Susan?

Susan: Yeah, it’s my understanding that a nullification bill is going to be filed in Tennessee. And also I have a constitutional amendment that we’ll put into our state constitution that, you know, people have the right to choose their own healthcare, that the government cannot force them into anything. And so, you know, we’ll see how that will go. Constitutional amendments, though, in Tennessee are a very lengthy process. They take really about six years or more. So the nullification bill would really be much more effective.

Lynn Continued “We have to do both,” according to the City Paper. “We have to have a law immediately, and then we also have to have a constitutional amendment to protect our citizens through our constitution.”

Then on Tuesday December 29, the Mt. Juliet Republican Representative was joined by fellow Republican Rep Debra Maggart of Hendersonville in sending a letter to state Attorney General Robert Cooper urging him to file suit against the federal government if health care reform passes with a Medicare expansion.

Rep Debra Maggart

The letter in part states that:
Under this bill, Tennessee would be forced to expand our Medicaid program, potentially costing the citizens of the state $1.4 billion dollars in additional state taxpayer funds annually. Such an increase would place a great burden on the citizens of this state. It is clear by the wording of the legislation itself that not every state would face a similar and equal burden.
We see this as a violation of the equal protection of the law, an affront to our sovereignty, and a breach of the U.S. Constitution.
Rep. Mike Turner, chairman of the House Democrats’ political caucus, said Tuesday
“Susan Lynn is yearning for times gone by. Maybe we could put the poor people back to sharecropping and slavery and let the people up at the big house have all the nice things. We’ve already had that fight about states’ rights."

Turner is referring to states rights arguments that were at the center of the Civil War, and to the Nullification Crisis of the 1830s where South Carolina passed a law nullifying federal tariffs. After President Andrew Jackson sent Navy warships to the Charleston harbor, South Carolina backed down and rescinded the law; while congress passed a new lower rate tariff. Much like Rep. Lynn’s proposals, the South Carolina law declared 1828 and 1832 federal tariff laws to be unconstitutional, and hence null and void.

Cited articles and documents:

Nashville Post Politics - http://politics.nashvillepost.com/2009/12/29/susan-lynn-talks-nullification-on-satellite-radio/

The City Paper - http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/city-news/state-legislator-says-she-plans-introduce-nullification-bill

Letter to Attorney General Robert Cooper - http://www.tennessean.com/assets/pdf/DN1489021221.PDF

Interview With Jim Cooper About His Health Care Vote

2010-01-04T07:49:00.000-08:00

As one of the moderate Blue Dog Democrats, much hand wringing has gone on the last few months about Tennessee Representative Jim Coopers position on Health care reform, mostly from national liberal activist. Nonetheless in the end Cooper voted for the Democrat constructed bill.

The health care reform bill is now going into reconciliation to reconcile the two versions passed by the House and the Senate, in order to have a final vote.

Last month the Washington post interviewed Cooper about his vote:

Rep. Jim Cooper: House health care bill was 'one of the best votes I ever cast

Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.) knows as much about health-care policy as anyone in Congress. He teaches the subject back home in Tennessee, promoted his own plan (to the anger of many Democrats) in 1994, and has been both a vocal advocate and critic of this year's reform fight. On Saturday, he voted for the House's health-care bill. Earlier today, he told me why.

Jim Cooper

What was the weekend like for you?

This was one of the best votes I ever cast. The key is to keep the reform process alive. There are many things in the House bill I disagree with. But the Senate bill is the more likely final product due to the difficulty of getting 60 votes over there. If we had dropped the baton at this stage, it wouldn’t have given the Senate a chance to improve the bill. It would have given the House what amounted to a one-chamber veto. The Senate could have powered through, but those folks are not noted for their courage. The House had to perform here. And I am thankful that in the nick of time the leadership realized how short they were on votes.

The slim margin surprised many observers. Do you buy the argument that there were a number of congressmen who would have voted for the bill if they’d been needed?

I think the actual number was closer to 210. The leadership had to move heaven and earth to get to 220. The achievement of the leadership was to corral the votes at the last minute, and that is a great achievement that should not be diminished, and they did that by making major concessions they didn’t want to make.

The rest of the interview

Also see:

Healthcare Cost Debated In Nashville With Gov. Bredesen, Rep. Cooper and Others

How Tennessee Representatives voted on health care bill

Vanderbilt’s Charles Hinkle To Transfer For More Playing Time

2010-01-03T15:29:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday December 29th Vanderbilt Head Basketball Coach Kevin Stallings announced that red shirt Sophomore guard Charles Hinkle had left the team and would be transferring in pursuit of more playing time.

In a statement posted on Vanderbilt’s athletics website, Stallings says "Charles is a great kid with an outstanding work ethic who comes from a good family, and we wish him the best. We will do whatever we can to help Charles in his future basketball endeavors"

The statement didn’t say much else, other than to note the reserve two guard’s stats. A representative of the athletic department that I reached by email Tuesday evening said that would be all that the University had to say on the matter.

However, Coach Stalling was quoted by the City Paper as saying:

“I love Charles. I’ve held him and his attitude up to my son as one to emulate…”

“…He just wants to play more, and I understand that. He looks around and only one perimeter player leaves by the time he graduates. … I think he looked into the future and questioned and wondered whether things would improve for him from a playing time standpoint. He couldn’t be certain they would.”

In his first year Hinkle averaged 2.0 points and 8.4 minutes in 25 of 31 games in which he played. This year, his time was cut in half to 4.8 minutes where he averaged 1.4 points and 0.5 rebounds per game. Hinkle was considered a defensive specialist who contributed the most at guarding opponents players at multiple positions.

Vanderbiltsportsline.com reports that with three new incoming signees, “Kyle Fuller, a 6'1 point guard from Moreno Valley, CA, Josh Henderson, a 6'11 center from Roanoke, VA, and Rod Odom, a 6'8 forward from Bellport, N.Y., the Commodores where over extended on their 13 allowed NCAA scholarships for basketball. Hinkle’s move frees up space in that department for next season.

Hinkle attended practice on Monday, but reportedly had post practice discussions with Coach Stallings about his status. He then did not return for practice on Tuesday and his immediate transfer was announced.

Transferring now will allow Hinkle to play next season at a new school, just about the time conference play is starting; after sitting out the NCAA mandatory 1 year, as oppose to waiting until the end of the season, forcing him to miss all of next season.

There is no word yet on where Hinkle will transfer to.

Remembering John Wilder – Former Lieutenant Governor Dead at 88

2010-01-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

Former state Senator and Tennessee Lieutenant Governor John S. Wilder died this past Friday morning at a Memphis hospital. He was 88 years old.

Wilder had spent 44 years in the state Senate, 36 of those as Lieutenant Governor. In Tennessee the Lt. Gov. is not independently elected by the populace, nor a running mate of the governor as some may expect; but instead the Senate Speaker, as elected by the members of the Senate, is also Lt. Gov.

John Wilder
(MARK HUMPHREY/The Associated Press)

Wilder was first elected in 1959. After serving one term, and being out of office, he was elected again to the Senate oin1966. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures he was the longest serving presiding officer of a legislative chamber in modern U.S. history.

Beyond being a legislator, Wilder was a practicing lawyer after having graduated the University of Tennessee's College of Agriculture and Memphis State University’s Law School. He was also a farmer, businessman, cotton ginner, and pilot.

A Democrat from Mason, Wilder was last elected to office in 2005. He lost his speakership/Lt. Governor position to Republican Ron Ramsey of Blountville, when recent elections increased the Republican Majority in the Senate and he was not able to get the support from across the isle he had received previously.

Then after being hospitalized with pneumonia in February 2008, Wilder said, in March on the Senate floor that he would not seek re-election, and called the Senate "more a part of me than anything else I've done." After 18th consecutive terms John Wilder’s Senate Career would be over; but his legacy last.

Memphis Democrat and chairman of the Tennessee Black Caucus, Rep. John Deberry, said of wilder "He was an innovator. To be speaker of such a politically divided organization as the Senate for as long as he was, is truly a remarkable feat.”

Former longtime Speaker of the House Jimmy Naifeh stated "when you look up the word 'statesman' in the dictionary, you're sure to find John Wilder's name”.

In being Speaker of the Senate, Wilder was charged with appointing committee chair positions. Chosing to often appoint Republicans to a solid minority of those positions allowed him to maintain the support that kept him in his position as speaker. At the same time, it also was a point of contention with fellow Democrats from time to time.

Notably, the Jackson Sun reports that “in the early 1960s, during racial unrest in his native Fayette County, Wilder refused to punish black tenants by evicting them or calling in crop loans.”

Vanderbilt’s Warren Norman Named SEC Freshman of the Year

2010-01-02T12:39:00.000-08:00

Lewis and Marve take all SEC honors
By: D. Yobach Boswell

Atlanta Ga. - In a breakout opening season that helped to propel Vanderbilt’s offense, Freshman running back Warren Norman wracked up some impressive yardage. So much so that on Monday he was named the Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Year as voted on by a panel of Associated Press’ (AP) sports writers.

The newcomer had a record setting year for both his school, and the conference as well. He did so at the expense of fellow Georgia native and legendary University of George Heisman Trophy winner Hershel Walker. The freshman out of Stone Mountain, Ga, a community in the greater Atlanta area, amassed 1,941 all-purpose yards, breaking the league's freshman all-purpose record set by Walker in 1980. He also became the first freshman to lead the SEC in all-purpose yardage since Walker, averaging 161.8 all-purpose yards per game.

Photo by John Russell, courtesy of Vanderbilt

Not only did Norman carry the ball out of the backfield, but as a dynamic kick returner he also tied a league record by returning three kickoffs for touchdowns; breaking the SEC record for kickoff return yards in a season, with 1,050 yards in returns.  

Asked about breaking Walkers record in a Vanderbilt Athletics online interview Norman responded “well to be honest it really hasn’t sunk in yet. Right after the Tennessee game I heard I broke the record, but as soon as that was over with, I was thinking about the season in general, and overall team success. Right after that we had to get ready for finals and everything; I guess it’s just now really starting to sink in. To be mentioned with, you know, Hershel Walker, one of the greatest players to ever play in the SEC is an honor.

“Obviously this is a tremendous honor,” Coach Bobby Johnson said of Norman’s win. “You know, this is a great conference; to be named freshman of the year, you know, is obviously a huge accomplishment by Warren; but he earned it. He went on to say of his freshman running back and return man, “we’re extremely excited about the award, but we’re also excited about the future that Warren has here at Vanderbilt.”

Coach Johnson also spoke of Senior Cornerback Myron Lewis receiving second team all SEC honors saying “I think he’s one of the very best corners in the conference. I think Myron will have a great future in the NFL, and had a fantastic career for us.”

Lewis ends his SEC campaign tied for second in interceptions, contributing four this year for the black and gold defense.

Sophomore linebacker Chris Marve was also recognized as honorable mention All-SEC, as he lead the Commodores in tackles this year. He was third in the entire league in 2009 with 57 solo tackles.

These are the bright spots in a disappointing Commodore season in which the squad finished 2 – 10 on an 8 game losing streak to end the year; including going 0 – 8 in conference play. This coming the year after Vanderbilt had a strong 4 – 4 SEC campaign in 2008, earning them a trip to the music city bowl where they defeated Boston College, leading to their first winning season in 27 at 7- 6.

Bobby Johnson looks to get his team back on track in 2010 with Norman and Marve leading the way on either side of the ball.

References: http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/sports/vanderbilt-runnerreturner-named-secs-top-freshman-2009>http://vucommodores.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/120709aab.html

How Tennessee Representatives voted on health care bill

2010-01-01T20:41:00.000-08:00

By D. Yobachi Boswell

Late Saturday night the House of Representatives in the Congress erupted in cheers as the Yea vote total hit 218. With the total at 220 and the clock winding down, those on the side of Yea, in unison loudly counted down from 10, and erupted into cheers again as the 15 minute voting period came to a close.

218 was the magic number Democrats needed to pass their health care bill in the house, leaving them only open to have 40 democrats defect if there were going to be no Republicans joining the majority of the Democrats in voting in the affirmative. As the Democratic no vote reached 36 and no Republicans had voted Yea yet, the vote was in question.

In the end the vote passed, barely, with a 220 to 215 count.

Brody Mullins, giving an overview of why some Democrats voted against the bill in general; in the Wall Street Journal’s online blog wrote on Sunday that:

An analysis of the vote shows that 22 of the 39 Democrats who crossed the aisle to join Republicans in opposing the bill were members of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition, including three of the group’s four leaders. These Democrats, who oppose big government deficits, had expressed concern before the vote that the legislation called for too much federal spending.

In the Tennessee Congressional delegation Democratic Representatives Lincoln Davis, Bart Gordon, and John Tanner joined Republicans Phil Roe, John Duncan, Zack Wamp, and Marsha Blackburn to vote against the health care bill.

Nashville Democrat Jim Cooper, despite all the national liberal ballyhoo around his position on Democrat proposals; voted Yea along with Memphis Democrat Steve Cohen.

Louisiana Representative Joseph Cao was the only Republican, out of a 177 in the House, who voted in favor of the bill. (Vote counts according to the House Clerks website).

If the House could only pass the type of bill that the Democrats want with a sliver thin 50.5% in the House (including 39 Democratic defections); It is difficult to see how they pass something similar in the Senate with the 60% (60 out of 100) needed to avoid a bill killing filibuster. The Senate is by its nature almost always more conservative. Therefore, if the more liberal House can barely get half, it’s going to be tough for the Senate to even get to half in trying to pass something similar even if they were to use what’s called the “nuclear option”, suspending the rules and going with a majority 51 out of 100 votes to pass it.

Reference link: Brody Mullins - http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2009/11/08/why-some-democrats-voted-against-the-house-health-bill/

House Clerk’s site: http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2009/roll887.xm

Welcome to Nashville News and Notes

2010-01-01T19:52:00.000-08:00

...Triple N

Thanks for stopping by my new blog. At first I will post a few articles I've done over the last few weeks for local papers; then you will start seeing new, more timely content appear.

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