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Gone, but not Forgotten

I often receive many emails from family and friends and I will admit I don’t get a chance to read all of them. This email was sent to me by the mother of Freddie Hawn. Sgt Asbury "Freddie" Hawn died Aug 14, 2005 while conducting mounted patrols. Their HMMWV came under attack by enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire. Having worked with Freddie at Nissan Motor Manufacturing and training him to do the jobs I was doing I got to know him personally. He had a great work ethic and positive attitude. At his funeral I had heard of the many honorable awards and medals he had obtained while being in the service and was impressed that he never mentioned it to me. 
  The family has been through much difficulty losing their high school granddaughter in a car accident on Rocky Fork Road just months before Freddie died. About 2 years later I attended their daughter’s funeral who passed away with cancer. The mother is in a wheelchair and suffers from polio, but can still have a big smile each time I see her. Obviously life is often unfair, if you think you’re having a tough day think of this mother and how she manages to keep such a great attitude. Below is the email she sent me.
MAY GOD BLESS THIS AIRLINE CAPTAIN:

He writes: My lead flight attendant came to me and said, "We have an H.R. on this flight."
(H.R. stands for human remains.) "Are they military?" I asked.

‘Yes’, she said.

‘Is there an escort?’ I asked.

‘Yes, I already assigned him a seat’.

‘Would you please tell him to come to the flight deck. You can board him early," I said..

A short while later, a young army sergeant entered the flight deck. He was the image of the perfectly dressed soldier. He introduced himself and I asked him about his soldier. The escorts of these fallen soldiers talk about them as if they are still alive and still with us.

‘My soldier is on his way back to Virginia ‘, he said. He proceeded to answer my questions, but offered no words.

I asked him if there was anything I could do for him and he said no. I told him that he had the toughest job in the military and that I appreciated the work that he does for the families of our fallen soldiers. The first officer and I got up out of our seats to shake his hand. He left the flight deck to find his seat.

We completed our preflight checks, pushed back and performed an uneventful departure. About 30 minutes into our flight I received a call from the lead flight attendant in the cabin. ‘I just found out the family of the soldier we are carrying, is on board’, she said. She then proceeded to tell me that the father, mother, wife and 2-year old daughter were escorting their son, husband, and father home. The family was upset because they were unable to see the container that the soldier was in before we left. We were on our way to a major hub at which the family was going to wait four hours for the connecting flight home to Virginia .

The father of the soldier told the flight attendant that knowing his son was below him in the cargo compartment and being unable to see him was too much for him and the family to bear. He had asked the flight attendant if there was anything that could be done to allow them to see him upon our arrival. The family wanted to be outside by the cargo door to watch the soldier being taken off the airplane.. I could hear the desperation in the flight attendants voice when she asked me if there was anything I could do.. ‘I’m on it’, I said. I told her that I would get back to her.

Airborne communication with my company normally occurs in the form of e-mail like messages. I decided to bypass this system and contact my flight dispatcher directly on a secondary radio. There is a radio operator in the operations control center who connects you to the telephone of the dispatcher. I was in direct contact with the dispatcher.. I explained the situation I had on board with the family and what it was the family wanted. He said he understood and that he would get back to me.

Two hours went by and I had not heard from the dispatcher. We were going to get busy soon and I needed to know what to tell the family. I sent a text message asking for an update. I saved the return message from the dispatcher and the following is the text:

‘Captain, sorry it has taken so long to get back to you. There is policy on this now and I had to check on a few things. Upon your arrival a dedicated escort team will meet the aircraft. The team will escort the family to the ramp and plane side. A van will be used to load the remains with a secondary van for the family. The family will be taken to their departure area and escorted into the terminal where the remains can be seen on the ramp. It is a private area for the family only. When the connecting aircraft arrives, the family will be escorted onto the ramp and plane side to watch the remains being loaded for the final leg home. Captain, most of us here in flight control are veterans. Please pass our condolences on to the family. Thanks.’

I sent a message back telling flight control thanks for a good job. I printed out the message and gave it to the lead flight attendant to pass on to the father. The lead flight attendant was very thankful and told me, ‘You have no idea how much this will mean to them.’

Things started getting busy for the descent, approach and landing. After landing, we cleared the runway and taxied to the ramp area. The ramp is huge with 15 gates on either side of the alleyway. It is always a busy area with aircraft maneuvering every which way to enter and exit. When we entered the ramp and checked in with the ramp controller, we were told that all traffic was being held for us.

‘There is a team in place to meet the aircraft’, we were told. It looked like it was all coming together, then I realized that once we turned the seat belt sign off, everyone would stand up at once and delay the family from getting off the airplane. As we approached our gate, I asked the copilot to tell the ramp controller we were going to stop short of the gate to make an announcement to the passengers. He did that and the ramp controller said, ‘Take your time.’

I stopped the aircraft and set the parking brake. I pushed the public address button and said, ‘Ladies and gentleman, this is your Captain speaking I have stopped short of our gate to make a special announcement. We have a passenger on board who deserves our honor and respect. His Name is Private XXXXXX, a soldier who recently lost his life. Private XXXXXX is under your feet in the cargo hold. Escorting him today is Army Sergeant XXXXXXX. Also, on board are his father, mother, wife, and daughter. Your entire flight crew is asking for all passengers to remain in their seats to allow the family to exit the aircraft first. Thank you.’

We continued the turn to the gate, came to a stop and started our shutdown procedures. A couple of minutes later I opened the cockpit door. I found the two forward flight attendants crying, something you just do not see. I was told that after we came to a stop, every passenger on the aircraft stayed in their seats, waiting for the family to exit the aircraft.

When the family got up and gathered their things, a passenger slowly started to clap his hands. Moments later more passengers joined in and soon the entire aircraft was clapping. Words of ‘God Bless You’, I’m sorry, thank you, be proud, and other kind words were uttered to the family as they made their way down the aisle and out of the airplane. They were escorted down to the ramp to finally be with their loved one.

Many of the passengers disembarking thanked me for the announcement I had made. They were just words, I told them, I could say them over and over again, but nothing I say will bring back that brave soldier.

I respectfully ask that all of you reflect on this event and the sacrifices that millions of our men and women have made to ensure our freedom and safety in these United States of AMERICA .

I know every veteran who reads this will have tears in their eyes. This was on an Amereican Airlines Flight to Chicago, Ill

   
  

Craigslist.com Making a Difference?

Click here to see video of 7 Year old Haiti Boy rescue

Craigslist.com making a Difference? 

  There’s an old adage that states “Tough times are there so you can have a good time later on & really appreciate it!.” I can reflect back on my own life and appreciate those times that I thought were tough. Whether it was being on the free and reduced lunch program at school or having to hock my watch to my father to buy medicine or baby formula for Preston when he was a few months old, those times make me appreciate how fortunate I am today.

  I was telling someone the other day how blessed we are to live in this great Country throughout much turbulence in our world today. I was reminded of the scene in Haiti when the 7 year old boy was pulled from the rubble after 7 days. I looked for the video on YouTube and found it. The boy looks up and raises his arms and smiles, truly an inspirational moment. I will predict that this young boy Kiki will ironically be blessed after enduring such hardship.

  Many are very familiar with the enormously successful Craigslist.com website. The website was started by Craig Newmark when he decided to develop a way to share news in regards to local events. Craig, a software engineer began posting news about social events for folks in the computer and software industries, thus Craigslist.com was born.

   Craigslist is one of the most well known sites on the net today receiving 5 billion hits each month, coming in at 34^th in the world and 8^th among websites in America. From classified ads for cars, jobs, real estate, Free ads and discussion forums the site has much to offer. There are 450 cities and markets around the world for craigslist, I hope Murfreesboro will one day have their own.

  I was impressed when I asked my sister in law April how her niece Valerie was doing. She stated that she was doing well and had found her a better job. Valerie had been working for Cracker Barrel as a waitress. I asked how she found the job and she told me craigslist. I was impressed that she thought to look on the website for a job. About 2 years ago Valerie had become pregnant. At 18 and single she knew she had to grow up quickly. I spoke to her the other day and she had matured and has become a very responsible young mother. I told her she needs to find a good young man, she told me she didn’t have time for any boyfriend, I will admit I liked her response & admired her for  putting her child first.

   Valerie’s Craigslist experience is becoming common place in today’s marketplace. Many have sold unwanted items to help make ends meet. I have sold cars, trucks and even a $300,000 business via Craigslist the past year without any Realtor’s help. The one most remarkable free ad I placed was the avocado green commode I gave away and the guy drove 160 miles to pick it up, I placed it on there just to see what would happen. The other day I listed some bushes on the site and to my surprise I had about 10 phone calls and a local Smyrna guy came after them. Yesterday I gave away an antique rocking chair that we no longer needed.

  If you or you know someone who is having a difficult financial time ask them to look around and see what stuff they have around the house or attic and get rid of it on craigslist. The old adage of “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” certainly holds true for craigslist.com.

 

Mr.Willie Brandon exemplified The Greatest Generation

Louie Armstrong Wonderful World

 

 

The passing of 103 year old Mr. Willie Brandon certainly touched many hearts in Rutherford County. I have had the opportunity to know “Mr. Willie” for over 7 years. Mr. Brandon served for 30 years as the custodian for the historic Rutherford County Courthouse. He lived through 2 world wars, the Great depression and several recessions. I always admired Mr. Brandon’s strong work ethic and pleasant personality. What i admired most of Mr. Willie Brandon was his strong Christian faith, it was obviously something he was passionate about. He wasn’t embarrassed or ashamed to be a Christian. He would glady share his faith and convictions. He was always an encourager for me and many others. I carried my sons Preston and Payton to meet him a few years back, knowing that one day he wouldn’t be here and they could look back and say they had met 103 year old Mr. Willie Brandon.

   Mr. Brandon would often share stories with me when I asked him about his childhood and what life was like for him years ago. He told me he would get 2 pairs for britches, one to wear to work in and one to wear to Church. He told me of his grandfather who was a freed slave. He said his grandfather told him of the time when the owner told him he could stay and work, but he would have to pay him. His grandfather eventually saved enough money to pay for a fare to Tennessee.

   I watched the Rutherford County Sheriff’s honor guard carry Mr. Brandon’s casket to the hearse last Friday. I was impressed that Mayor Ernest Burgess had the visitation for Mr. Brandon at the Courthouse. I thought about the irony of General Nathan Bedford Forrest last visit to the Courthouse on July 13 1862 with his raid to free Confederate prisoners who were held there by the Union troops. To my knowledge and many others Mr. Willie Brandon was the only person honored to lie in state at the Rutherford County Courthouse. Mr. Brandon was loved by many from all walks of life both black and white, rich and poor, democrat and republicans and many others.

  Commissioner Bob Bullen would often pick up a birthday card for Mr. Brandon and other Commissioners would throw in a few dollars and present it to him. Back in 2008 he was presented the card and offered a few words of wisdom. He said he didn’t know why the “Good Lord” had him stay on this earth so long. My opinion to why he was still here was his example of honesty, integrity, strong work ethic and a love for his fellow man. Mr. Willie set a great example for us to follow and was truely what was the essence of what made The Greatest Generation. God bless you Mr. Willie you will be sadly missed.

‘09 Recession a Blessing?

 

 

“Wise Men Still Seek Him”

Wise Men (and Women) Still Seek Him

Shepherds hurried to find him; the Magi (or wise men) braved deserts and mountains to find him; in the blazing noonday sun a defeated Samaritan woman came to him; a skeptic exclaimed, “my Lord and my God” when he found him. And today millions on every continent acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. O come, all ye faithful, to proclaim that God is among us as Jesus the Christ!

Let us pray. O God, you have called us to spread your Gospel in the world today. In the Christ child, You showed us in that single life the love you meant for us to share. Help us share it, Lord. And now may the Gospel come alive for each of us, as your word is proclaimed in this place. In Christ’s name. Amen

Not much is known about the Magi, or wise men as we more commonly refer to them. We assume there were three, because three gifts were brought to Jesus. And we assume they were all men, but in truth we don’t know.

But what we do know is that these wise men traveled thousands of miles seeking the Messiah, the newborn king, a trip that took probably 1 to 2-years to complete. To our knowledge they had no map, they had no compass, yet some would argue they had to have women with them because they ultimately did find their way.

But the Bible does offer some insight as to how they found there way to Bethlehem. They had a star to guide them on their journey, a star of wonder, a star of light, a star of hope.

Now by the time the wise men found Mary and Joseph they were married, living in a house, and were intending to stay in Bethlehem for a while. And when the star they had been following settled over the house in Bethlehem, the wise men found Jesus and responded with joy. They immediately worshipped Jesus and gave him gifts of praise.

I’m amazed at the persistence the wise men exhibited, taking 1 to 2 years to seek Jesus, and when they finally found him they gave this little boy gifts often given to a king, or other person of prominence.

They were willing to give what they had, because they knew they had been blessed by Jesus’ birth, and that Jesus was the long awaited for Messiah that the prophets had been talking about. So they gave special gifts to Jesus, not so they could receive special favors, but out of praise and thanksgiving. This is the same reason we ought to give today, out of praise and thanksgiving. The Magi were indeed wise people, realizing what God promised had in fact come true, the prophecy fulfilled.

This seeking, and giving of gifts by the wise men, is very different then what we typically see today. Many today expect God to come looking for them, to explain himself, to prove who he is, and to give us gifts, rather then the reverse.

“You want me to believe, then God you better come show me something like a miracle, or give me the winning numbers for the lottery, then I’ll believe.” Not an unfamiliar attitude we observe, is it?

But those who are truly wise still seek and worship Jesus today, not for what they can get from God, but because they know whom Jesus is. They know that this Jesus, born of Mary, is the Son of God, the one sent to redeem us and to save us. A gift far greater than a one-time miracle, or winning the lottery.

I find myself often times sitting back in my desk chair reflecting on the question, “why is it people don’t want to accept Jesus.” And yes, I come to the same conclusions many of you do, like, we want to have control of our lives, people can’t believe what they can’t see, we live in a self-focused world, so on and so forth. But these answers weren’t satisfying to me this week. I wanted more.

Why God don’t people get it, why don’t they seek Jesus with all the energy they have, why can’t they see a better life in Jesus, why!!

Well after ranting and raving, and taking a walk this past Monday I received my answer. As humans we don’t look for things until we really need them, and even then sometimes we don’t, or don’t look for the right things.

But isn’t it true, we don’t seek the things we need until we really need them. Think about it, when do we go to the doctor, not until we need to? When do we call a plumber, not until we need to? When do we study for an exam, not until we need to? Join me. When do we clean the house, not until we need to When do we go to church, not until we need to When do we seek Jesus, not until we need to

You get the idea; we’re “not-until-we-need-to” kind of people. And because we’re “not-until-we-need-to” kind of people we tend to seek God like he’s some kind of divine vending machine. We begin to focus on biblical verses that say, “Ask and it will be given to you,” (Matt 7:7) or “Call on my name and I will answer.” (Zec 13:9) taking these statements completely out of context to simply suit our needs or desires. And then when we don’t get what we want we are quick to blame God, or we’re quick to declare the must not be a God.

But prayer and God’s Word are not coins to be inserted in a vending machine, and faith is not a button you push out of want. God doesn’t submit to our whims and wishes. God is not some heavenly vending machine we seek when we want gifts or favors. God transcends our petty seeking; he is God almighty, love incarnate.

God longs for us his children to return the love he has lavished upon us. He wants us to love him, not things. He wants us to seek him, he wants us to obey him, not because we might be blessed, but because we love him and want to please him. So we need to lose the vending machine mentality and realize the time to seek Jesus is now, not later when it may be too late, but now, so that we can enjoy the blessings of knowing Christ, and live without fear of the future.

The Magi found Jesus as a young child with his mother Mary. We find Jesus today as the living Christ, clothed with glory and honor, seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. And now he offers us his divine invitation: “Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you and eat with you, and you with me.” (Rev. 3:20, NRSV)

The babe born to Mary in Bethlehem, who is now the Christ of Glory, is inviting you today, just as the New Year begins, to begin anew with him. Is the door of your heart open to receive his invitation and saving grace?

Wise men and woman still seek him. Amen

(Source: Google)

“Give Thanks For Tough Times”

 It was George Washington our nation’s first President who issued the historic proclamation that set aside Thursday, November 26 “A Day of Publick Thanksgiving and Prayer.” The decree appointed the day “to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God.”
   This Thanksgiving, I feel more people will reflect on what is important in life, faith, family, health and good friends. This year has been a tough year for many. I have met many who have lost their jobs, homes and one man who lost everything including his cars, business and home. I can’t help but think back to my late father who “preached” for years to pay cash for everything and “owe nothing to anyone”. His generation who endured the tough times of the great depression and WW11 learned from their bitter experiences which built their character into what was truly the “Greatest Generation”.   
   Even though the signs of doom and gloom seems to engulf us on all sides we can be thankful to live in the greatest Country on the face of the earth. With record foreclosures and record unemployment this year we still have much to be thankful for. Colossians 3:17 states- “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
  This Thanksgiving let us remember to give thanks throughout these tough times.

Rev Carl Marable “One Man with Courage makes a Majority”

 

One of my favorite quotes is by President Andrew Jackson “One Man with Courage makes a Majority”. I was reminded of that quote when i read the DNJ article about local Reverend Carl Marable in regards to M’Boro’s recent gang arrest. Reverend Carl is no stranger to helping others and speaking up for what he believes in. He is “One Man” who is on fire for making positive change in Rutherford County and he has had a strong impact. Carl is what i call “The Real Deal”. Years ago Carl hit rock bottom and pulled himself up and is now committed to helping others.
  One reason he is effective is in his sincerity in touching lives with Second Chance Ministries and his efforts to improve State Street. Carl could be like most people including many Pastors that see the problems and remain silent. He could be like most politicians and never speak up, but like Christ’s passionate anger in “turning over the money changer tables” Reverend Carl has the same passionate anger in comfronting the ever growing problems facing our society. As our Country suffers through this recession, drug & gang violence will only continue to rise. If Rutherford County and our Country had more men like Reverend Carl Marable there is no doubt “One Man with Courage can make a Majority”.

Sam Davis Home-Haunted? Listen @ 3 today

Click here to watch show from Sam Davis Home (2008)

Sam Davis, the “Boy Hero of the Confederacy” is a story which is dear to the hearts of not only Rutherford Countians, but Tennesseans and Civil War enthusiast as well. His famous last words of  “I would rather die a thousand deaths than betray a friend” is a compelling reflection of his character and love for his fellow man. WGNS 1450 Am & 100.5 FM’s Rutherford Issues Show with Bryan Barrett and myself will be held live at the Sam Davis Home today at 3pm (Thursday).    Meredith (Lane) Toporzysek, office and event coordinator and Anita Teague, executive director of the Sam Davis Home, will be on air with us to discuss the Home, stories of the home’s hauntings and their upcoming ghost tours. Feel free to call in and ask questions 893-1450.

October 23, 2009 - October 24, 2009

Held at the Sam Davis Home, 1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna. Muster up your courage for a night when ghosts come out to greet you. Before your haunted hay ride comes to a dead stop, experience the plantation at night as stories from beyond the grave emerge. The haunts of the Sam Davis Home surround you as tour guides and volunteers share their encounters in the home and on the plantation. Beware, for you may not be alone when your haunted hay ride departs. Admission is $5 per person. Ghost tours are not recommended for children under the age of 10. The event runs from 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. with the last hay ride departing at 10:00 p.m. Contact: Sam Davis Home, (615) 459-2341   Mike do you have your $5.00 for the Sam Davis field trip?That was the question I was asked by my 4th grade teacher Mrs. Barnacle at David Youree school. I didn’t have the $5.00 back in 1977 which was a lot of money for a child who was on the “reduced lunch” program. Back then they would call out and ask in front of every student “Do you have you’re “reduced lunch money Michael”?.I experienced sitting in class by myself looking at blank walls throughout the school day. Looking back it at those experiences were “blessings” of minor hardships that enable you to appreciate the abundance we have in this Country, when many in 3rd world Countries and even here in America go without.    An Angel or just Luck? That was the question i asked myself after my friends Rod Roberts and Kevin Babcock were rescued from potentially drowning on Stewart’s Creek. We decided we were going to raft down Stewart’s Creek starting close to Old Nashville highway at the rear on Bailey Collins drive. When were reached the Estate of Sam Davis Home we came upon a Dam which can be seen from the front of Sam Davis home. As young boys we discussed our options, one was to get out and walk the raft down the bank and get back in, well my risk taking self decided to “jump it” well we did and were caught up in the heavily falling waters from the Dam. I remember we were afraid of jumping out of the raft and not knowing what to do when to our surprise we looked up and a tall man was standing on the bank with a long stick which had to of been 12-15 feet in length and pulled us in (we were in the center of the creek), saving us from potentially drowning.   I assumed the man was a caretaker for the Sam Davis Home we really didn’t know. About a year later Kevin who was with us was on Percy Priest lake with some boys when one of them drowned. I have always felt that God had that caretaker or possibly an “Angel” save us that day. Whoever it was he was an Angel to us that day.

 

Bartering “A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned”

With our current economy in recession and an ever increasing government looking to place more beauracracy, taxes and fees upon business owners bartering is one smart option to place in your entreprenuerial tool box. When i first purchased the real estate where our current business www.MidTnAUTOS.com is located here on Jefferson Pike (Smyrna) i wanted to add a shop area. I had a nice chevy truck for sale when a man called me and i asked what he had one for a living he stated he was a framer. I asked if he would be interested in doing some trading. Well a few weeks later i had a nice 2200 square foot addition at the back of our office. I fact him and i have traded out on several occasions. Since then we have become good friends he even finally came to Church with us last Sunday. When i needed a central/heat and air system including duct work installed sure enough a central air company called me about another truck for sale. I had a truck for sale that had once belonged to singer Alan Jackson which i purchase for $800 it was an old Dodge flatbed. I traded the truck for a new CH/A unit and paid the owner $500 difference(boot). A unit at retail would of cost me about $4000 installed at retail value, but hey who wants to pay retail? Even my $8000 sign out front I swapped a Suzuki 600 motorcycle for it.
From advertising on WGNS 1450am/100.5 fm, 3 concrete driveways, lawn care and more bartering can certainly be a smart way to save money and leverage buying power.
What if you were a lawn care company and bartered area restaurants gift certificates and in turned sold the gift certificates, certainly a Win/Win situation. What about hair cuts if your you repaired computers? Make the computer repair and get haircuts for 90 days.
Being in the car business can be difficult to barter due to the higher cost of the item. One smart guy that i know Dan Miller of 48days.net even traded out a beautiful BMW 740 i sold him for some printing and not only had a car free for 6 months but made money due to the savings on the printing cost. The potential for bartering is limitless. From free web sites such as Craigslist, U-Exchange.com, and GoLSN.com the use of “leverage” to help your business or your family’s bottomline the tools are out there for you. Remember the old adage of Ben Franklin “A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned”.

New Boys & Girls Club Breaks Ground in Smyrna

Contractors, government representatives, and members of the Boys and Girls Club of America broke ground on the site of what will be the new Boys and Girls Club in Smyrna. Councilwoman Mary Esther Reed described how the new facility came about, and what benefits it posed over its predecessors, including a gymnasium, more overall space, a convenient location in the heart of the school district, a teen center, and even it’s own garden. Dan Jernigan of the Boys and Girls Club of Rutherford County commenced the ceremonies and voiced his enthusiasm for the center, which is expected to be open in about 10 months time.

Hear the entire Zach Troutman report:

Read more

How To Inspect a Car before a purchase & Save $$$

This is a video we have put together. Hope it helps someone who may be looking to purchase a new or used car. I highly recommend Stones River Nissan’s service department for a full professional inspection. Their # is 893-0253

That’s My King!-Do You Know Him?

Dr. Shadrach Meshach (S.M.) Lockridge (March 7, 1913 – April 4, 2000) was the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, a prominent African-American congregation located in San Diego, California, from 1953 to 1993. He was known for his preaching across the United States and around the world.

[edit] Biography

Shadrach Meshach Lockridge was born March 7, 1913, in Robertson County, Texas, the oldest of eight children and the son of a Baptist minister. A graduate of Bishop College in Marshall, Texas, he worked for two years as a high school English teacher. In 1940 in Dallas, he felt led to preach. In 1941 he married Virgil Mae Thomas but they never had any children.

[edit] Ministry

In 1942, he accepted his first pastorate at Fourth Ward Baptist Church in Ennis, Texas. In August 1952, he was named pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in San Diego where he served until retiring in 1993.

During Dr. Lockridge’s tenure at Calvary Baptist, a predominantly African-American congregation, his ministry touched the lives of more than 100,000 people. He preached at crusades, revivals, religious rallies and evangelistic conferences around the world.

He also served in key regional, state and national positions with the Baptist Church, including being elected the first president of the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America.

He held doctorates and numerous honorary degrees and was often sought as a public speaker, even after he retired in 1993. He served as guest lecturer at numerous schools and universities and on the faculty of several others, including the Billy Graham School of Evangelism.

Dr. Lockridge was active in the civil rights movement, and under his leadership Calvary Baptist hosted several of its leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jesse Jackson.

His best-known message is a six and a half minute description of Jesus Christ, known as “That’s my King!” for Lockridge’s repeated refrain.

“You Can Count him Down, but Don’t Count Him Out”

WGNS Smyrna Show w/Mayor Bob Spivey

That was the words of Mr. Ritchie, a gentleman who i met at the YMCA after he asked me how Mayor Bob Spivey was doing prior to going on the air to do the “Smyrna Show” via WGNS 100.5 FM/1450AM with Bryan Barrett last Thursday. Many, if not all who know Mayor Bob Spivey would say he is one tough resilent guy who doesn’t take no for an answer. Over the past couple of years i have watched him cope with his wife Nancy’s stroke yet still trying his best to make a difference in the our Town. Mayor Spivey reminds me of  the era of “The Greatest Generation” which exemplified discipline, will power and ability to persevere against great odds. In my opinion, it was the Bob Spiveys of the world that made America the greatest Country on the face of the earth. That generation didn’t ask for government bailouts or handouts, they sacrificed, worked hard, saved and had faith for a better tomorrow. I can remember his optimism and him telling me of the commerce that would come to Smyrna much of it where Target, Kohls, IHop, Sonic and much much more that would all take place and to be honest I thought he was dreaming, because all I could see was a mountain of rock and cedar trees. I recall his conviction for wanting Motlow College to be built, prosper and help our local students. Mayor Spivey is more a dreamer, but a doer. His optimism and rigid determination to save Team Chevrolet and the confidence in his eyes knowing that he could turn the ailing dealership around, save jobs and keep the 60 year old Smyrna business alive is admirable all while GM Dealerships across the Country are closing their doors and GM facing possible bankruptcy.

 

 

“Yea Mike-I will go”

 

 Those were the words of Bob Spivey several months ago after a long Smyrna planning committee meeting. I had asked him to come and speak to a few Smyrna High school students and offer them some guidance and words of wisdom. At first the Mayor said he couldn’t and was tired and i stated “but those kids are looking forward to speaking with you” and his response was a kind ”Yea Mike I will go”. He spoke to Ian, Josh and Preston of his life growing up in a hot poor southern Alabama town and his first job of working in a sawmill when he was a young teenager. He spoke of his parents never owning a home and his family being forced to move often due to financial constraints. He told them them of the time they moved into a home that was painted and he thought that was a “neat thing”. We all had a laugh when 18 year old Josh Smith received a phone call from his possesive girlfriend and she asked “Where are you at?” and he said “I’m having dinner with Mayor Bob Spivey” she still didn’t believe him. We had a good time and he spoke with them until 11:15 and Bob even paid the bill. One of my favorite quotes state “You can judge a man’s character by how he treats those who cannot offer them anything in return”. That memorable conversation will stay with those boys the rest of their lives.

  One thing I find very ironic is that we wait for others to pass on before we tell them how much we appreciate them and their accomplishments. I have had the opportunity to read “Resolutions of Sympathy” for several people who have made an impact on Smyrna and Rutherford County including both past Nissan and TVA CEO Marvin Runyon and Mayor Sam Ridley. 

 I got word earlier today (thurs april 9th) that Mayor Spivey was moved to a rehabilitation unit and was doing much better. Feel free to send Mayor Bob Spivey a get well card to 1003 Rosemont Terrace Smyrna, Tn 37167.

TVA CEO’s $500,000 Pay Increase? Marvin Runyon would be Furious.

Most would ask where is the logic and common sense to make decisions like this? From an economy in recession, high foreclosure rates, 30% increase in bankruptcies nationally, plant closures to Nissan and Bridgestone layoffs. Are these decision makers “out of touch” with reality? While the average American is worried about increased cost from food, utilities, College tuition, taxes and more TVA leaders prove their opulence and their disconnect with their customers by making foolish decisions in a time of crisis.

Marvin Runyon had already left for his TVA position when I was granted the “opportunity” to work for Nissan. From countless stories of Marvin Runyon nicknamed “Carvin Marvin” for his effective cost cutting measures it wasn’t uncommon for him to be seen speaking to assembly line employees wearing the same blue uniform. Marvin would often speak of his passion for classic cars.

TVA’s recent decisions and other “solutions” from Government bailouts, AIG’s $85 million taxpayer bailout while spending almost $500,000 for posh rooms and spa service to executives, not to mention the current bailouts which some accounts say are near $8.5 trillion. I would argue Mr. Runyon would be “PISSED OFF”. All this waste and ill conceived solutions will be left for our great grandchildren to be pay for. In Proverbs it states “A wise man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children”. What inheritance will our generation leave behind? Possibly one of squander, waste and indebtedness to foreign Countries many of whom hate the US and would love to see it’s demise.

Marvin Runyon’s legacy from a humble Baptist deacon to CEO is one of a common sense, no non-sense tough compassionate decision maker. His willingness to seek guidance from mail carriers to assembly line employees at Nissan while at the same time laying off top heavy management shows his wisdom and business prowess. After being nominated by President Reagan to lead the United States Postal Service, cutting 30,000 management positions, operating it like a “private business” even requiring USPS to pay for it’s own postage all at the same time having Union support helped reform the ailing government bureaucracy.

In my opinion many leaders are more concerned with votes and staying in office and saying YES to excesses that are “Wants” and not true “Needs”. When I see people who have lost their jobs whom I once worked side by side with at Whirlpool, a 30% increase in needs at our Smyrna/Lavergne food bank, teenagers concerned with how to pay for the high cost of College tuition because their mom and “step father” cannot afford it(but Professors got their raises) and personally witness Rutherford County convenience center employees being forced to use a “Johnnie on the Spot”(modern outhouse) and local decisions from $10,000 year pay raises and more one has to ask where is common sense these days? Maybe i’m too stuck in the past, but I don’t think the “Greatest Generation” would be proud of where their Country that they sacrificed, fought and died for has gone.

This letter isn’t intended to complain or discourage the hopes and dreams for the future, but to encourage people to speak up for the next generation. In this new year of 2009 will you worry more about who wins American Idol or Survivor or will you vow to make a difference even if it cost you business or friendships? Get involved with our local non profits, teach a Sunday School class, volunteer for Meals on Wheels, mentor a child and be willing to make some sacrifices in 2009.

Broadcast Over The Skies of Rutherford County

WGNS’s Bryan Barrett and County Commissioner Mike Sparks will be doing the Smyrna Show over the skies of Rutherford County on August 21st at 3pm. They believe it will be the 1st live radio show performed over the skies of Tennessee. Corporate Flight offered the flight to help promote the Smyrna Rotary Club’s annual Wings of Freedom Fish Fry which helps area non profits.  “Corporate Flight is proud to be a part of such a worthy cause” stated Bill Mermelstein Vice President of Business Development. The show will fly over points of interest in Rutherford County and discuss the Wings of Freedom Fish Fry and Smyrna Rotary Club. The Smyrna Show usually performs from the North Rutherford YMCA every other week and helps to bring attention to non profits and positive happenings in the north rutherford area. For more info on the show contact Mike Sparks @ mike_district11@comcast.net or Bryan Barrett 893-1450

Nissan Continues to “Think Outside the Box”

Nissan continues to “think outside the box” when it comes to cost cutting and improving efficiencies. While being employed there for 8 years the term “Kaizen” impressed me. Kaizen is the Japanese management term for “constant and never ending improvement”. Everyone who is and has ever been employed at Nissan knows they do just that-constantly looking for ways to improve. The Smyrna Nissan plant and it’s 5600 employees have the led the struggling company over the often bumpy road of automobile manufacturing. Nissan continues to bounce back and much of its due to their constant innovation, quality products, assertive cost cutting and passion for improvement.
Nissan recently celebrated its 25 year anniversary of making quality products at the awarding winning plant here in Tennessee. Since 1983 Nissan has produced over 8.2 million vehicles have been built in Smyrna. Nissan’s total investment is over 2.5 billion here in Smyrna. In 1994 Nissan won “most productive car and truck plant in North America” for Harbour Report benchmarking survey much of it due to the hard working employees that have made the company efficient. Nissan’s Smyrna plant has been the keystone for the automaker. They have reduced cost, improved quality and turned out popular vehicles in the marketplace. The newly designed Altima has enjoyed much success as well as the new Versa which gets up to 34 mpg and starts at a low price of $12,000 (which is about 1/2 the amount most Hummers have depreciated the last 6 months).

The “outside the box” thinking with a 6 figure buyout to reduce its workforce is commendable. When many companies would simply announce a layoff Nissan has been creative in reducing the size of its workforce. With the announcement by Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn to build an electric vehicle and be the “global leader in zero emission vehicles by 2012″ is honorable.

Many know I have been a critic of Nissan for their use of “temporary employees” many times employing them for a few years and providing no benefits yet the company has been given tax incentives of over $100 million. Nissan i’m sure has realized the use of “temps” has adversely affected quality and production. I heard many a story of temporary employees who at lunch time simply did not return after they realize they are being paid roughly half that of a Nissan technician or they work for a few weeks until they find something better.

I’ve often thought of Marvin Runyon and what he would think of the use of “temps” to build a quality vehicle. How can an employee who is told “he doesn’t work for Nissan but a temp agency really care about the job at hand? Or a Nissan employee who has been employed there for many years be told he cannot move to day shift due to a temp doing that job? What ever happened to seniority?

Mr. Runyon proved you can be efficient, cut cost and take care of employees. He eliminated 23,000 management jobs (yes management jobs) to add mail carriers and employees to improve public service while at the Postal Service. As the mail load grew by 11%, the total size of the Postal Service work force remained about the same and its 765,000 employees made it the largest civilian employer at that time. The Postal Service had been losing millions of dollars each year since 1989, but Marvin Runyon soon had it “in the black” and by the time he left in 1988 it had amassed more than $1 billion in profits!

I never had a chance to meet Mr. Runyon but i heard the stories of him walking the floor dressed in the same blue uniform as his employees with “Marvin” stitched on his Nissan shirt. I’ve heard he loved old cars and could talk to any technician on any subject. His “actions spoke loud words” and gave employees the feeling that he cared about them and what they thought. Under his management Nissan became one of America’s most productive automotive plants. Later President Ronald Reagan named him chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Smyrna and Rutherford County is blessed to have Nissan in our state. They have provided good jobs with good pay and benefits, improved our tax base and built us a great product that many of us drive daily. It’s not unheard of to see someone own a Nissan truck, Sentra or Maxima with over 250,000 miles that’s still going strong. With higher taxes, fees and more bureaucracy governments at all levels should look to Nissan and learn the term “Kaizen-Constant and never ending improvement”. Government at all levels are struggling with the same issues from rising health care cost, retirement benefits, fuel cost and more, but many times leaders simply fail to look long term and seek solutions. Government can’t continue to be the “bottomless cookie jar” by “bailing out” those who make poor decisions or giving them a check to “jumpstart” the economy. The inheritance we leave our children will be greater debt and a disservice to the next generations.

Thank you Nissan for making a difference in our community and our great state of Tennessee.

by Mike Sparks

Smyrna Rosenwald School Celebration

WGNS will be broadcasting a very special Rutherford Issues this Friday afternoon. There will be a reunion celebration at the Rosenwald Park in Smyrna. It’s where the old Smyrna Rosenwald School was located (photo to the left). It was a school for African-Americans. Back in 1940, there were 97 students there. It had four classrooms and three teachers. Casey Clark and one of his bands will be at the park this Friday playing music. Festivities run from 3 until about 5. Come by and say hello and enjoy the fun at Rosenwald Park this Friday afternoon.