National Night Out Announced for Murfresboro
July 9, 2010
From MPD Major Clyde Adkison:
On Tuesday night, August 03, 2010 from 5:00 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. the Murfreesboro Fire and Police Departments, Murfreesboro Housing Authority, Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services, Tennessee National Guard, and various other groups will be co-hosting “National Night Out”. Citizens are asked to turn on any outside lights, lock their doors on their houses and come outside to spend the evening with their neighbors and law enforcement officers. Thousands of citizens across the nation will be joining forces to celebrate this national event.
National Night Out is designed to encourage the citizens to partnership with local law enforcement officers to reduce crime in their neighborhoods. The night will target crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in all anti-crime efforts, and strengthen the cooperation between police and citizens. The event sends a loud and clear message to the criminals and drug dealers they are not welcome in the City of Murfreesboro.
In Murfreesboro there will be seven (7) sites which are: Barfield Park; Franklin Heights; Oakland Park; Patterson Park Community Center; Rogers Park; Sports Com; and Spring Valley apartments.
Various activities will be at the sites listed below:
Barfield Park: Obstacle Course, T-Shirt Walk, Live Music, Moon Bounce, Children’s Games.
Franklin Heights: DJ, Bingo, Water Slide, Homemade Ice Cream, Reading Tent.
Oakland Park: Cake Walk, Bingo, Bead Making, Ring Toss, Linebaugh Book Mobile.
Patterson Park: Dunking Booth, MTSU Rugby Team, Carnival Games, Dance Groups.
Rogers Park: Triple Bounces, Health Mobile, “Spot Burglar” Game, Guidance Center.
Sports Com: Free Swim at Aquatic Park, Music, Bike Medic, Inflatable’s.
Spring Valley: Pie Eating Contest, Inflatable’s, Read to Succeed, Big Brothers/Sisters, T.B.I. Units.
We need cold drinks and water to be donated by the local businesses and citizens! If you would like to make a cold drink or bottled water donation, please contact Lieutenant Steve Teeters, Sergeant Melvin Cunningham, Officer Kyle Evans at 895-3874 or Donald Smith with the Murfreesboro Housing Authority at 893-9414 (#19). Everyone come out and spend the evening outdoors with your neighbors. Meet some new friends and fight crime and drugs together!
Project PASS Announces Partnership with Read To Succeed and Linebaugh Library System
June 22, 2010
United Way’s Project PASS will partner with Read To Succeed’s Adult Literacy Program and Linebaugh Library System to offer support in developing job skills. Trained volunteers will be available at the Patterson Park Community Center Myrtle Lord Glanton Public Library every Wednesday, June through September, from 10:00 am until noon. Adults wanting help with job skills may come by during this time with no appointment required.
Sessions will include lessons in searching for employment in the newspaper and on the internet, resume writing, interviewing skills, business etiquette, and follow-up after an interview. Read To Succeed volunteers will be providing services free of charge.
This service is the result of a need in the community to have adult education in the area of career development. Shelly Stanley, the Adult Literacy Coordinator of Read To Succeed, said, “The community expressed a desire for job skills training and we are doing all we can to meet that need.” Classes will be created for regular attendees by United Way’s Project PASS.
Project PASS, a United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties’ grassroots initiative, is designed to empower adults in the community. The implementation of Project PASS is a direct result of a community-wide needs assessment conducted by United Way, MTSU, and the Leadership Rutherford Class of 2006.
Read To Succeed, the community literacy collaborative in Rutherford County, will promote reading, with an emphasis on family literacy. This non-profit initiative supports literacy programs and fosters awareness of the importance of reading. The Read To Succeed Adult Literacy Program will address the basic literacy needs of adults in Rutherford County who want to develop their skills for personal and/or career development. For more information visit www.readtosucceed.org or please contact Shelly Stanley at (615) 738-7323.
Become an Adult Tutor and Volunteer to Help Someone Read
May 26, 2010
Read to Succeed is hoping for a big turnout in June as they begin another teaching session of future adult tutors. Read to Succeed routinely helps those who are illiterate. Read to Succeed Director Ronni Shaw told Literacy Council Members on Wednesday that ESL trainers are also needed. To learn how you can receive training to become an adult tutor call 738-7323 or visit www.ReadtoSucceed.org.
Murfreesboro City 2010-2011 Budget Report
May 24, 2010
Murfreesboro City Manager Rob Lyons has proposed a $159.4 million city budget for the 2010-2011 year, the city’s bicentennial. As in previous years, the budget does not propose a property tax increase, and will in fact see of decrease of 13 cents. One big money-saver is the $2.1 million in federal grants the city will be receiving to increase energy efficiency, as well as a new initiative in workforce reduction dubbed “right-sizing”, which will save over $400,000 by eliminating vacant positions. Base payroll will be taking a cut as well. The Building and Codes Department’s expenditures are down $66,000, and the Street Department and parking garage operating costs will also see a reduction. The Solid Waste Department has also found ways to cut their operating costs almost 25%, and the Community Development Department will cut theirs by over half, a savings of about $1.5 million. And while not every corner is being cut, the city is reducing its reliance on outside funds, and outside agencies who are requesting money are doing so more responsibly, such as the Rutherford County Rescue Squad, who is only requesting enough to offset the increase in fuel prices. The Read to Succeed program, which has proven its merit over the past year, will receive additional funds.
Murfreesboro City Council, 5-13-10
May 13, 2010
It would be fair to say that the May 13th meeting of the Murfreesboro City Council was absolutely dominated by public hearings. In total, five public hearings were held; one to consider amending 9.8 acres located along Charleston Boulevard and east of Old Lascassas Highway, a second to consider amending 206.75 acres located west of Veteran’s Parkway, another to rezone approximately 1.5 acres located south of Old Fort Parkway and west of St. Andrews Drive, another still to rezone approximately 16.77 acres located south of Old Fort Parkway and west of St. Andrews Drive, and a final one to consider a Zoning Ordinance Amendment pertaining to consideration of changes to public property. The idea to rezone property along St. Andrews Drive was met with a great deal of opposition, but passed anyway. Six more public hearings were then scheduled, to zone land along Franklin Road and Highland Avenue, and to further amend the city code. Those hearings have all been scheduled for June 17th. Additionally, the Planning Director recommended some changes to the sanitary sewer construction to the fire station site on Joe B. Jackson Parkway, a nearly $83,000 project. Finally, two groups have requested to hang banners across East Main Street to advertise upcoming events, so mark those calendars, because here they are; “Read to Succeed” will hold its annual celebration from August 31st to September 18th, and the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties will hold an as-of-yet unspecified event from September 10th through 20th, and November 12th to the 22nd.
Read To Succeed To Train Adult Tutors
May 7, 2010
The local Read To Succeed literacy program is gearing up to help more adults improve their reading skills. The raining will take place June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 11:00 each morning until 1:00 in the afternoon at the Lon Nuell Family Literacy Center. That facility is located in First Baptist Church at the corner of East Main and Spring Streets in downtown Murfreesboro. Read to Succeed Executive Director Ronni Shaw told WGNS News that lunch will be provided. For more information, check their website: www.readtosucceed.org Please let Ronni know if you plan to attend.
LOOKING BACK: 6th Grade Spelling Bee
April 21, 2010
LOOKING BACK (APRIL 17): Local sixth grade students worked hard to prepare for Read To Succeed’s seventh annual “Read To Bee Spelling Championship” that was held on April the 17th. The bee was at the Patterson Park Community Center. Students participating in the Bee had to first win at the classroom level, second school level and then then compete to attend the Bee.
Winner:
Eli Ragland
McFadden School of Excellence
Runner Up:
Khalin Freeman
Blackman Middle School
Words:
Kahlin missed "rhetoric" and Eli spelled "flamboyant’ for the win.
Pictures:
Description 1: Khalin Freeman of Blackman Middle School was runner up and Eli Ragland of McFadden School of Excellence was the winner.
Description 2 (Family Picture): Left to right: Khalin Freemnan (runner up), mother - Shalette Freeman, Ronni Shaw, Eli Ragland (winner), father - Kevin, mother - Tabby and younger brother, Khalin Freeman (
More info: Twenty Six students represented their schools. The winner and runner up each received a $500 savings bond from MidSouth Bank. Read To Succeed presented the winner with a $100 check and the runner up with a $50 check. The Learning Circle donated $25 gift certificates to the teachers of both the winner and runner up.
PICTURES: Read To Succeed Announces Annual Awards
April 21, 2010
A noon luncheon Tuesday (4/20/10) at the new Bungalow Events, formerly the Vine—across from the Linebaugh Library, honored Read To Succeed volunteers. Read to Succeed is a non-profit is a Rutherford County literacy collaborative that promotes reading, with an emphasis on family literacy. The recipients include (See names and photos below):
Learner of the Year…………Charles Young
Family Literacy Volunteer…………Cheryl Hitchcock
Council Member of the Year…………Ginny Williams
Community Volunteer of the Year…………Amy Maynard
City School…………Bradley Elementary
County School…………LaVergne Lake
Corporate Sponsor of the Year…………State Farm
Community Partner of the Year…………CADCOR
Karen Claud Read To Succeed Literacy Award:
Dr. Mary Tom Berry
Recognize Shining Star Volunteers:
November Amy Maynard
December Penny Meyers
January Rebecca Upton
February Heather Krug
March Aaron Shapiro
April Hank Williams
Congratulations to the Read To Succeed volunteers. To learn more about this local program, check their website: www.readtosucceed.org.
READ TO SUCCEED Honors Volunteers
April 20, 2010
Read To Succeed Announces Annual Awards
A noon luncheon Tuesday (4/20/10) at the new Bungalow Events, formerly the Vine—across from the Linebaugh Library, honored Read To Succeed volunteers. Read to Succeed is a non-profit is a Rutherford County literacy collaborative that promotes reading, with an emphasis on family literacy. The recipients include:
Learner of the Year Charles Young
Family Literacy Volunteer Cheryl Hitchcock
Council Member of the Year Ginny Williams
Community Volunteer of the Year Amy Maynard
City School Bradley Elementary
County School LaVergne Lake
Corporate Sponsor of the Year State Farm
Community Partner of the Year CADCOR
Karen Claud Read To Succeed Literacy Award
Dr. Mary Tom Berry
Recognize Shining Star Volunteers:
November Amy Maynard
December Penny Meyers
January Rebecca Upton
February Heather Krug
March Aaron Shapiro
April Hank Williams
Congratulations to the Read To Succeed volunteers. To learn more about this local program, check their website: www.readtosucceed.org.
Literacy Matters! Librarians Honored!
April 8, 2010
Librarians at every County, City, and private school in Rutherford County will receive a basket. This is a gift from the Linebaugh, Smyrna, and LaVergne Public Libraries, along with Barnes & Noble and Read To Succeed. These baskets are given in appreciation of their tireless effort to promote literacy with our children. Literacy matters!
Governor Says Tennessee Places TOP in Federal Race to the Top
March 30, 2010
Governor Phil Bredesen announced today that Tennessee is one of just two states selected to receive millions of dollars for education in the federal government’s Race to the Top competition. The U.S. Department of Education announced Tennessee and Delaware as the competition’s first round winners earlier today.
Tennessee will receive approximately $500 million to implement its comprehensive school reform plans over the next four years.
“This is a landmark opportunity for Tennessee,” said Bredesen. “Our success in Race to the Top speaks to the commitment we’ve made to meaningful and significant improvement in public education, and the funds provided by the grant will carry us forward in a dramatic and positive direction.”
Tennessee requested $501 million in its application. As one of the next steps in the process, the U.S. Department of Education will complete negotiations with successful states on their Race to the Top contracts to finalize award amounts.
The $4.35 billion Race to the Top Fund is an unprecedented federal investment in reform. The program includes $4 billion for statewide reform grants and $350 million to support states working together to improve the quality of their assessments. The Race to the Top state competition is designed to reward states that are leading the way in comprehensive, coherent, statewide education reform across four key areas:
• Adopting standards and assessments that prepare students to succeed in college and the workplace;
• Building data systems that measure student growth and success, and inform teachers and principals how to improve instruction;
• Recruiting, developing, rewarding, and retaining effective teachers and principals, especially where they are needed most; and
• Turning around their lowest-performing schools.
Forty states and the District of Columbia submitted applications for the first phase of grants. Delaware and Tennessee were selected from among 16 finalists who presented their proposals to panels of peer reviewers earlier this month.
The peer reviewers awarded the highest scores to Delaware and Tennessee. According to the U.S. Department of Education, they awarded Delaware and Tennessee high marks for the commitment to reform from key stakeholders, including elected officials, teacher’s union leaders, and business leaders. In both states, all school districts committed to implementing Race to the Top reforms.
Delaware and Tennessee also have aggressive plans to improve teacher and principal evaluation, use data to inform instructional decisions, and turn around their lowest-performing schools. In addition, both states have put in place strong laws and policies to support their reform efforts.
Bredesen expressed appreciation for widespread support for the state’s application by the Tennessee General Assembly, Tennessee Education Association, educators and education advocates, business leaders, and the parents and families across the state that want to continue to provide better opportunities in the classroom and in life for Tennessee’s children.
UPDATE: Healthcare Bill Now Signed (With Audio)
March 23, 2010
The Healthcare Bill has now been signed into law by President Obama. Ann Compton with ABC Radio News has more…
According to the new law, over 200-thousand Tennesseans not currently covered by TennCare will be allowed to enroll under Obama’s plan. Governor Phil Bredesen has already said the new plan will cost taxpayers in the volunteer state an additional $1-billion dollars.
(MORE) In Depth Look at Bill Signing:
Using 22 pens, PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA signed into law the historic 938-billion-dollar health care bill. The bill was signed during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House, and the president was joined by Democrats, as well as regular folks whose lives have been affected by their struggles with health care.
In his speech, Obama stressed two major points of the bill whose impact will be felt sooner rather than later: insurers can no longer deny coverage to sick children, and young adults can remain on their parents’ insurance until the age of 26.
Telling the crowd, "It’s been easy at times to doubt our ability to do such a big thing, such a complicated thing," Obama added, "We are not a nation that scales back its aspirations. We are not a nation that falls prey to doubt or mistrust. We don’t fall prey to fear. We are not a nation that does what’s easy. That’s not who we are. That’s not how we got here."
Thanking those who contributed to the passage of the bill, Obama said, "We have just now enshrined…the core principle that everybody should have some basic security when it comes to their health care and it is an extraordinary achievement that has happened, because of all of you, and all the advocates across the country, so thank you."
Noting that some congressmen and women may have put their political careers on the line in order the pass the bill, Obama added that its passage is "a testament to the historic leadership and uncommon courage of the United States Congress who’ve taken their lumps during the loud and difficult debate." This prompted a congressman in the room to crack, "Yes we did," resulting in much laughter all around.
The Speech That Changed America (From Tuesday at Noon, President and Vice President):
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. (Applause.)
Spanish Language in the Murfreesboro City Schools
March 22, 2010
Director of Murfreesboro City Schools Dr. Linda Gilbert told WGNS that enrollment numbers of Hispanic students who speak limited English continues to grow. Gilbert told us the local schools will make an increased effort of reaching out to these children to teach them English thanks to the recent approval of a new grant.
In addition to helping educate children, Dr. Gilbert told us the city schools will be working with the parents of non-English speaking students so that they can learn English as well.
Joe Herbert is the director of the Rutherford County Adult Education program.
Dr. Gilbert is also in close contact with many non-profit agencies to further help non-English speaking families. One of the groups Gilbert is working with is Read to Succeed.
Turn Your TV Off
February 12, 2010
During the week beginning February 15th members of the Rutherford County community will be choosing a night to turn off TVs, computers, iPods and video games to enjoy reading. Special activities are planned at Barnes & Noble, the Boys & Girl Club, Linebaugh Library, and many local schools.
Northfield Elementary is inviting children to stay after school from 2:30-4:00 to enjoy reading together. The school will be providing snacks, a special activity, and VIP readers. Students are invited to bring their favorite book and cozy pillow. (CONTACT KELLY HARRIS FOR MORE DETAILS kelly.harris@cityschools.net)
Barnes & Noble will be hosting a Pajama Story Time, Family Game Night and Teen Poetry Slam on Friday, February 19th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. (e-mail Leslie Walker for more information: crm2292@bn.com)
The Boys & Girls Club will be UNPLUGGING with special activities during the week of February 15th (FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT DIANE STOCKARD branchdir_bgcrc@bellsouth.net)
Have You Read The One Read?
For adult readers, also consider choosing this year’s One Book Community Read selection, The Soloist by Steve Lopez for your UNPLUG reading. It tells the story of an L.A. Times Columnist befriending a homeless man who happens to be an extraordinary musician. Copies of The Soloist are available at all local libraries and bookstores. For reading guides and event information visit www.readtosucceed.org.
“Taking time to read is so important. The more our children see us reading, whether a book, the newspaper, or magazines, the more they will show interest in reading” said Ronni Shaw, executive director for Read To Succeed. “Read together as a family. Or volunteer to read to residents of a nursing home or in our schools. Studies show that children who are read to regularly do better in school and stay in school longer. We hope that people will be reminded of the importance of reading by making the decision to unplug electronics and read for an evening of their choice during the week of February 15th. “
Read To Succeed is a non-profit organization that works with all age groups to promote reading. Whether creating family literacy programs, organizing literacy events, reading to students in schools or tutoring adult learners, Read To Succeed is committed to increasing literacy throughout Rutherford County. In addition to UNPLUG & Read, Read To Succeed also initiates such programs as the Express Yourself Conference, Read To Bee, and Reading in the Schools Day.
Read To Succeed, the community literacy collaborative in Rutherford County, will promote reading, with an emphasis on family literacy. This non-profit initiative supports literacy programs and fosters awareness of the importance of reading.
City Council, 1-21-10
January 21, 2010
Severe weather did not keep the Murfreesboro City Council from meeting on Thursday, January 21st. The council approved using funds from the Recreation Trails Program to restore parts of the Stones River Greenway and heard from Read to Succeed’s Ronni Shaw, who presented this year’s One Book Community Read selection. Resolutions were adopted authorizing filing for federal assistance from the Federal Transit Administration, and to reimburse the fire department for expenditures incurred with the purchase of a new aerial truck. Additionally, the Parks & Recreation Director presented his recommendations regarding renovations to be done on the Sports*Com’s indoor/outdoor pools. Those recommendations were approved, and the pool should be open by May in time for the swimming season. Total price tag; $3,250,000.
Gov. Bredesen Addresses Education
January 13, 2010
In the 7-years that Phil Bredsesen has been governor of Tennessee, this week marked only the second time that he has called lawmakers into a special session.
Governor Bredesen is asking for elected officials to come together and focus there attention on the future education of our children.
The governor noted that he wants lawmakers to focus on all grades, including college.
MORE (In Depth View, according to the actual speech):
From the State: K-12 Education
The first opportunity is the federal government’s Race to the Top competition. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law by President Obama in February 2009, provides $4.35 billion for the Race to the Top Fund, a competitive grant program designed to encourage and reward states that are implementing ambitious plans in four core education reform areas:
1. Adopting standards and assessments that prepare students to succeed in college and the workplace and to compete in the global economy;
2. Building data systems that measure student growth and success, and inform teachers and principals about how they can improve instruction;
3. Recruiting, developing, rewarding and retaining effective teachers and principals, especially where they are needed most; and
4. Turning around the lowest-achieving schools.
Tennessee is viewed as competitive in Race to the Top by national education-reform groups as a result of key successes in recent years, including the adoption of career- and college-ready high school standards through the American Diploma Project. Tennessee is also recognized for having one of the nation’s oldest and most robust databases for tracking “student growth,” or a child’s improvement in the classroom over time.
“To effectively compete in Race to the Top, we need to unlock the prohibition on effectively using that information to help improve teacher quality and drive change in the classroom,” said Bredesen. “That needs to change. And it takes legislation. The quality of the teacher is so important to a child’s success. Making these changes will move us dramatically toward the goal of improving high school output of our public educational pipeline.”
In addition to removing limitations on the use of this Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) data, the First to the Top Act includes measures to establish an Achievement School District to intervene in consistently failing schools, require annual evaluations of teachers and principals, create a 15-member teacher evaluation advisory committee to recommend guidelines and criteria to the State Board of Education, and to allow local school systems to create local salary schedules for teachers and principals with state approval.
Higher Education
The second opportunity comes as Bredesen concludes nearly year-long talks with a bipartisan group of state lawmakers on how to improve higher education in Tennessee, consisting of colleges and universities in the Tennessee Board of Regents and the University of Tennessee systems.
The Volunteer State lags the nation in completion of bachelor’s degrees, ranked 40th, and associate degrees, ranked 45th. On average, only 46 percent of full-time students at four-year schools graduate within six years, and only 12 percent of full-time community college students attain associated degrees within three years.
“We can do better. We’ve got to do better,” Bredesen said. “Our economy hinges on our ability to develop a more skilled workforce and, more fundamentally, giving kids a quality education so they can earn a good living.”
The Complete College Tennessee Act proposes key measures to improved Tennessee’s college-completion rates. “These strategies are a natural extension of K-12 education reform measures,” Bredesen said. “In fact, Race to the Top places a premium on states that aren’t simply focused on getting kids through high school, but also are looking at college enrollment.”
The legislation includes a new approach for funding higher education.
Currently, the state’s antiquated formula for funding education is based almost exclusively on enrollment.
“At a time when state resources are tighter than ever, we’ve got to prioritize how we spend those finite dollars and retool our funding formula to make it based on success and outcomes, including higher degree completion rates,” said Bredesen. “It’s the responsible thing to do for the budget and, more importantly, that change, as much as any other, will drive decisions at the campus levels and help really focus us on the core mission of college completion.”
In addition to changing the funding formula, the Complete College Tennessee Act makes community colleges a centerpiece of the state’s strategy by expanding common programs and common courses to promote consistency and quality across the two-year system, create a statewide transfer policy so any student who earns a two-year degree at a community college can move on to a four-year university as a junior, and requiring the Board of Regents and University of Tennessee to establish dual-admission and dual-enrollment policies at all two- and four-year colleges and universities.
Bredesen urged lawmakers to move swiftly to approve the Tennessee Education Innovation Plan.
“Our Race to the Top application is due at the U.S. Department of Education in Washington on January 19th - just one week from today,” Bredesen said. “In the November guidelines, the federal government made it clear: Those states that will be the most competitive will be the ones that have new policy changes in place at the time of the application. But I want to be clear, while our share of $4 billion would be significant, there are no guarantees. Furthermore, money can’t be the main reason for making these changes. The fact is, we’ve been talking about these ideas for years. In 2010, this is the way the education world is moving. Tennessee can and should lead the way.”
Women’s Basketball: Pickel’s 3-pointer lifts Blue Raiders over Wildcats
December 29, 2009
Senior Jackie Pickel hit her biggest shot of the season-to-date, a 3-pointer with 32.3 seconds remaining, to break the game’s third tie and give Middle Tennessee a thrilling 57-51 victory over previously unbeaten Kentucky Monday night in non-conference women’s basketball action inside the Murphy Center in Murfreesboro. The Cleveland, Tennessee native’s long-range bomb was part of a 6-0 Blue Raider run to close the game and put a cap on the team’s non-conference slate.
The Wildcats, who were one of seven unbeatens across the country entering the contest, trailed for the majority of the game after two-time reigning Sun Belt Player of the Week and All-American Alysha Clark gave Middle Tennessee (6-4) a slim 5-4 advantage with 16:37 to play in the first half. It was the first time UK had trailed in nearly three-and-a-half games.
Clark’s bucket was part of a 9-3 spurt and she capped the streak with an old-fashioned three-point play at 12:41. Carly Morrow answered right back with a 3-pointer to pull the Wildcats within two, but a pair of shots from Brandi Brown kept the distance at a half-dozen. The lead grew to 10, 22-12, on a Pickel steal and jumper by Brown at 8:01 just before the teams entered the under-eight media timeout.
Chelsia Lymon drove through the paint for a layup at 5:45, finishing a 5-0 run, and giving the Blue Raiders their largest advantage, 27-14, and forcing a Kentucky (11-1) timeout. The ‘Cats clawed back into the game by netting seven of the next eight points, including six from Victoria Dunlap, to trim the deficit to seven with 3:47 remaining in the half.
Neither team scored over the next two minutes before Brown drained a triple with 1:33 to go. Dunlap and Clark traded a free throw apiece and Middle Tennessee entered the locker room with a 10-point, 32-22, cushion.
The Wildcats rushed out of the intermission with seven-straight points, featuring five by Amani Franklin, to cut into the lead at 32-29. Emily Queen halted the run with a layup at 17:27 and again the teams went cold for over two minutes. Brown then connected on her last 3-pointer with 15:05 remaining to push the lead back to eight.
Over the course of the next two minutes, Pickel swiped a pair of backcourt steals and converted layups to keep the double-digit lead, 43-33, for the Blue Raiders with 13:04 to go.
Dunlap and A’dia Mathies each hit old-fashioned three-point plays and Lydia Watkins registered a pair of charity tosses in just over three minutes to pull Kentucky back within two, 43-41. Watkins’ two free throws came after Brown fouled out and she recorded an additional pair three minutes later after Queen fouled out for the game’s first tie, 43-43, with 6:31 on the clock.
After two of its post players were disqualified, Middle Tennessee went on a 5-0 run, including another steal by Pickel. But the Wildcats did not quit and answered with their own 6-1 surge to tie the game once again, at 49-49, including three points each from Dunlap and Crystal Riley.
Clark put the Blue Raiders ahead with a steal and layup at 1:25 before Mathies countered with two free throws 23 seconds later. Neither team would score for the next 30 seconds before Pickel’s dramatic 3-pointer, which sent the Middle Tennessee crowd into a frenzy.
Brown finished with a team-high 16 points, while Pickel and Clark chipped in 13 apiece. Clark added a team-high nine rebounds and three blocked shots, while Lymon equaled her career-best with eight boards.
Dunlap led all players with a double-double effort of 20 points and 16 rebounds, including 10 on the defensive glass. She was the only Kentucky player to reach double figures, as Mathies was next with eight points.
The Blue Raiders forced 29 turnovers, six fewer than they committed, against a Wildcat squad which ranked No. 1 nationally in turnover margin entering the contest.
The win is Middle Tennessee’s fifth against an SEC opponent in the last four years.
The Blue Raiders will return to action at 7 p.m. Wednesday when they travel to New Orleans, La., to face the New Orleans Lady Privateers. UNO brings a 6-7 overall and 0-2 Sun Belt record into the matchup.
Middle Tennessee Postgame Quotes
Head Coach Rick Insell
On Jackie Pickel’s field goal
When they know they have to shoot the basketball and that they will not be taken out for it, then you are shooting the ball for free. Jackie has done that for us many times. I can go back to South Alabama and Little Rock because she had made those shots her entire life. When they went out to her, she never hesitated. She just knocked down a great three and that was a big three for us and the layup Chelsia made was a big layup. We missed entirely too many free throws. You have got to give Kentucky credit. They are a great, athletic defensive basketball team that took us out of a lot of things that we wanted to do. Without making any excuses, Alysha Clark had an upset stomach with some type of stomach virus when she rolled in tonight. What a valiant effort from her and Chelsia Lymon. Chelsia is one of the top point guards in the country.
On Chelsia’s injuries
She just had cramps. But the kid just keeps coming out there and gutting it up and what can you say about the effort she gave us. Emily and Brandi did well too. There was no anyone who did not do a good job. We missed some box outs with Dymon (Raynor) and Dana (Garrett) that we usually get. But again, you have got to give Kentucky credit and you have got to give Victoria Dunlap credit because she put her team on her shoulders. Jackie got some big steals out there from deflections. Not only was her shot big, but she got some big steals on Carly Morrow once or twice. She had four steals and two or three of them were big. I mean big.
On overcoming the adversity of losing Brandi and Emily in the second half
I asked if we were ready to quit in the huddle and they all looked at me and said no. Then they went back out after my huddle and huddled in the middle of the floor. You very seldom see them do that. But that was your senior leadership from Jackie, Alysha, Chelsia and then Anne Marie (Lanning) with all the experience she has. There was a lot of big plays in the game.
On forcing Kentucky 29 turnovers
The rule of thumb many times is a team that pressures does not like to be pressured. So coming in we felt like putting a little pressure on them. That helped us get a 10-point lead on at least two occasions. Twenty-nine turnovers is probably a high for them this year.
On the challenges of defending Victoria Dunlap
She is a great athlete. We knew that. She is not as big and strong as other kids we have had to defend, but she is more athletic. We knew coming in that she was the most athletic kid we have guarded this year on the floor. She is the state decathlon champion here in Tennessee and that has to tell you a little bit about her. She is just a tremendous athlete. We went up top too much. We played into their strength with Watkins and Dunlap, but I thought we went to the boards hard. Another big play was when Amber Smith fouled out because that took away their point guard they have been relying on this year. I do not think the kid that transferred in is ready at the point. She will be because she is a great player.
On pre-game conversation with Matt Insell
We did not talk. It was all business for Matt and it should have been. If they would have come in here and not played hard, I would not have respected them. But I knew they were going to come in and play hard and that they have a good team. They are going to be a contender in the SEC — you watch them. Them being 11-0 coming into tonight was not fool’s gold. Some people question their schedule, but let me tell you something. I have seen them on film and they absolutely manhandled Louisville. And Louisville is probably more athletic than them, but they manhandled them. They are maybe not as old and experienced as Louisville, but they just flat beat a team that is going to make a splash in the Big East, you wait and see. They will not win it because of Connecticut, but they will finish third or fourth because Kentucky totally took them out of what they wanted to do.
On keeping composure when Kentucky tied it up
We have been playing this type of competition since these seniors walked in here. The first game they had of their varsity career was against defending National Champion Maryland. With five minutes to go we were up seven. So from day one, they have been in these types of games. They love playing here and they do not lose many times playing here at Middle Tennessee. They love their crowd.
On playing time for Kortni Jones and Dymon Raynor being beneficial
Kortni grew up a little bit. At half-court she wanted to do some Marcus Haynes stuff and found out real quick that she could not. We talked about it in the huddle and she did not make that mistake again. That is big when you take a freshman who does that and comes back out and does not do it again. Dymon is going to be a force. She has just got to have a little bit more playing time and playing in big games like this. I am not disappointed in anybody I put in. We made plays we needed to make.
On the importance of winning a big, last game before starting conference play
We did not really talk about that. We talked about conference play which we play Wednesday. We play at New Orleans and fly out tomorrow so we are not going to get to rest much.
Jackie Pickel
On mindset after watching the field goal sink
Coach Insell is the greatest I have known on encouraging to keep shooting. At halftime, I knew I had not been putting the ball in the hole, and if I kept shooting like that, we were going to lose. Chelsia came up to me and told me if I had an open look at all that I better put it up. So when the shot clock was coming down I saw Chelsia’s eyes and knew she was going to pass it to me, so I just got my feet set and did it routine.
On the timing of being poked in the eye before the big three
I guess that happened at 10 minutes left to go and I could not see. It was blurry for a while, but after a few minutes, I could see and I was not about to sit the bench the rest of the half.
On extra motivation with Kentucky coming in undefeated
Every year we have a huge win at home and our fans are the best. I have never heard Murphy Center as loud as it was tonight and that means a lot to us. We wanted to do something for our fans and we knew this was a big game to get our confidence going into conference play.
On quick turn around into conference play
We leave early. We cannot celebrate or anything because we have got to get our minds focused. Our team is really good at doing that and New Orleans has a very athletic team so we are going to have to play just as aggressive as we did tonight.
Brandi Brown
On the feeling from the bench when Jackie took the field goal shot
I am not going to lie, I was nervous for a little while. But I trust my teammates and I would rather Jackie have the ball than anyone else on the team. So I was confident in what she could do.
On the frustration of fouling out early
I cannot even tell you how frustrating it was. To be that far from the basket was just frustrating. I would have felt much better about it had it been an aggressive foul, but I still do not think I even touched her.
On the offense in the first half
Coach Insell says Utah is always our best offense and we have never really shown that it is. But I think that was the best we have ran Utah since we have had it in our offense.
Kentucky Postgame Quotes
Head Coach Matthew Mitchell
Opening Statement
I want to compliment Middle Tennessee. I think they played extremely hard all night. They played with tremendous energy and effort. The game really meant a lot to them. Certainly in the first half, their effort and energy was a lot better than ours. Our team picked it up in the second half and played with some more tenacity and to get back into the game was good for us. It is just so disappointing to turn over the ball that much, which resulted in a loss for us. We are not happy about that and will have to get back to Lexington and figure out how to learn from this loss.
I do not think because we are a good press team that we are a bad press-breaking team. I think that tonight we just made very bad decisions. They had a great game plan and basically it was a game plan of making us get into making good decisions. You have to credit them they were well prepared. Coach (Rick) Insell did a great job getting them prepared. I feel badly that I did not have our team any better equipped to succeed in this game.
Victoria Dunlap
What caused so many bad decisions?
I think we were rushing a lot of things. In the first half, we settled for a lot of open shots, a lot of jump shots instead of taking it to the basket. It was just more of us making bad decisions.
On if the loss will refocus the team
I think it will show the team that we can either win or lose. We lost this game and it is something we will take into practice and just work even harder for the next game.
Read To Succeed Announces One Book Community Read: "The Soloist"
December 18, 2009
One Book Community Read challenges readers of Rutherford County to join together each winter to read a chosen book. This year’s selection is the The Soloist by Steven Lopez. One Book is a collaboration of Read To Succeed, Linebaugh Library, Barnes & Noble and Middle Tennessee State University to promote reading and literacy in Rutherford County.
In his non-fiction work The Soloist, L.A. Times columnist and author Steve Lopez recounts the story of a homeless person he happened by one day, who was coaxing classical music from a tattered violin with just two strings. What began as a good idea for his column turned into a much bigger story and deeper relationship when he discovered that the ragtag soloist, Nathaniel Ayers, was a Julliard-trained musician.
The Soloist is a story of the homeless plight in America as depict in the real life circumstance of Nathaniel Ayers. It is also a tale examining thinner conflicts of those who try to ease the struggle of the homeless as seen in Lopez’s honest portrayal of himself. It’s a wise and poignant tale, sometimes funny, often heart wrenching, concerning the power of music and the struggle for personal dignity in the face of mental illness and the resulting homelessness.
Published in 2008, The Soloist is heralded by critics for its “elegant sparseness” and “humanity” as a literary work of non-fiction and is the subject of a major motion picture starring award-winning actors Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr.
“Every year the One Book committee challenges the community to read a book that will draw attention to an issue facing our county,” said Leslie Walker, the One Book chairperson for this winter’s read. “The Soloist tells with real empathy and insight the story of homelessness and mental illness. It also offers us a profound look at the life of people in our own community, who too often go unnoticed and unchampioned.
“The element of music in the book underscores the potential talents and inherent worth of individuals society too often discards and also the makes the story even more meaningful for a Middle Tennessee community like ours, known for its rich musical tradition.”
Read To Succeed, Linebaugh Library, Barnes and Noble and Middle Tennessee State University, in conjunction with encouraging the community to read The Soloist will be promoting an understanding of homelessness and the joys of classical music.
Interested Rutherford County readers, businesses and organizations can learn more about getting involved by joining the One Book Rutherford Facebook page or visiting the One Book Rutherford Blog at http://onebookcommunityread.blogspot.com
What Is One Book of Rutherford County?
One Book is a collaborative project of Read To Succeed, Barnes & Noble, Linebaugh Library System, and MTSU, created to challenge readers in Rutherford County to join in reading the same book. The objectives of One Book are to encourage reading among adults, to demonstrate to our children the importance of reading, to unify our community through a shared experience and to highlight an issue of importance by means of a book’s theme or subject matter.
How Can I Get Involved?
There are a number of ways every person and business in Rutherford County can be involved in the One Book experience.
Individuals: Read the book and encourage your friends and family to read it too. Take part in a neighborhood discussion of the book or participate in one of the events organized by One Book. A calendar of those events will be available on the One Book blog at the One Book Rutherford Facebook page or at onebookcommunityread.blogspot.com. If you’re part of a book club, consider having your group read the One Book selection between now and the end of April. If you’ve already read the book, encourage those around you to share in the experience. You can also help by volunteering to join the One Book committee or making a donation at readtosucceed.org.
Companies: Companies and workplaces can encourage employees and customers to take the One Book challenge and read. They can also help further the One Book cause by becoming a sponsor of the project. For more information on One Book corporate sponsorship, contact Ronni Shaw, Read To Succeed Executive Director at 738-READ.
New City School Director Dr. Linda Gilbert Listened To Murfreesboro Rotary
December 15, 2009
The new director of the Murfreesboro City School System spoke briefly and listened in length to the Murfreesboro Rotary Club. At noon Tuesday (12/15/09), Dr. Linda Gilbert seized the opportunity to get feedback on ways to give local students a better opportunity. She began with a reading of Ecclesiastes 3:17 regarding a time for every purpose and for every work. Dr. Gilbert said, “To make the time for change more effective, you must do three things: (1) affirm people and let them use their talents, (2) examine your own behavior and know actions speak louder than words, and (3) motivate others and in-turn create new leaders.”
When it comes to students, the new city school director commented, “We must work to encourage and empower them to reach their full potential. In other words, fan the flames of hope and happiness.”
Dr. Gilbert explained that in most organizations the chain of command goes from the top and broadens out as it flows down, thus forming a triangle. Her goal is to turn the triangle upside down with the broad base being at the top and representing Murfreesboro City School students. “The students are the most important part of the system and should be on top. Everything that is done should strengthen them.”
Feedback From Audience
OBESITY AMONG STUDENTS: A physician in the audience voiced concern with students sitting too long, and how this along with diet hurts their health. Dr. Gilbert agreed and told of a wellness panel that is addressing this issue. She also indicated that due to the economy, her concern is that their work may be on the chopping block. The new director shared how Middle Tennessee Medical Center is reviving its Mobile Health Service and will be stopping at schools and neighborhoods where at-risk children live.
FOCUS ON MATH: A Rotarian asked about making improvements in ways students learn math, particularly beginning at the fourth grade level. They specifically asked about a method of teaching that is known as Singapore math. Dr. Gilbert knew exactly about this concept, and explained that it incorporates a heavy emphasis on problem solving, thinking skills, and understanding the underlying math concepts.
LITERACY: A concerned participant quizzed the new director about improving reading and writing skills. You could tell that Dr. Gilbert is passionate about this subject. She told how a child’s level of reading in the elementary grades, is an important factor in determining their success in college. At that point, the new city school director told of successes of the Read To Succeed program.
SHOULD CITY SCHOOLS DROP SIXTH GRADE: A city resident noted how the Rutherford County System had established a very strong middle and high school program. They queried that since that begins with the sixth grade, should the city drop that class in order to be more cost effective? Dr. Gilbert explained that the school board directs the current kindergarten through sixth grade path. She explained, “The city and county systems both have their strengths, and as a result they reinforce each other.” She noted how much it meant to her to see Rutherford County School’s Director Harry Gill in the audience during her interview with the city school board.
New United Way Staff Assignments
December 9, 2009
United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties recently announced the hiring of Maridel Williams as its new Executive Administrative Assistant in addition to naming Aurelia Holden as its new Administrative Assistant. Jennifer Smith has also been named as United Way’s new Success by Six Director.
Executive Administrative Assistant Maridel Williams
Maridel Williams comes to United Way with a background in business and resource management. She has professional experience in banking and contracts. Williams will work primarily in the area of finance. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Management and Human Relations from Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville.
Administrative Assistant Aurelia Holden
Aurelia Holden has 13 years of experience with the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties. Her background with United Way includes finance, campaign, and allocations.
“The combination of Williams’ background in finance and business administration and Holden’s in-depth knowledge of United Way history and policies builds a strong team of support for all our departments,” said Brian Hercules, President and CEO of United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties.
Success by Six Director Jennifer Smith
Jennifer Smith, who became involved with United Way over three years ago as a volunteer, earned a degree from MTSU in social work and completed her internship with United Way. She has already established Success by Six collaborations with Read to Succeed and Spring Valley Learning Center.
“Jennifer was a natural fit for United Way given her experience with this organization and we are excited to have her join us in this new role,” said Hercules.
The United Way and its 45 partner agencies and programs work to advance the common good in Rutherford and Cannon counties by focusing on the essentials for building a strong community: education, income and health. The United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties is located at 615 Memorial Boulevard, Suite 200 in Murfreesboro. For more information on how you can better your community by choosing to Live United, please call (615) 893-7303 or visit www.uwrutherford.org
$30K Grants Awarded To Local Groups
December 8, 2009
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, a charitable organization connecting generosity with need in 40 Middle Tennessee counties, has distributed more than $30,000 in grants to eight Rutherford County nonprofit organizations as part of The Foundation’s annual grantmaking process.
“As needs in Middle Tennessee grow, the work of our nonprofit partners to provide vital services and innovative programs has never been more important,” said Ellen Lehman, president of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. “The Foundation is honored to connect generosity with need through our annual grantmaking and congratulates nonprofits on their efforts to improve quality of life for our community.”
Specific grants to Rutherford County organizations include:
Ø Center for the Arts has received a grant to provide a theater, dance, music and arts academy for children in Rutherford County.
Ø Children’s Museum Corp./Discovery Center at Murfree Spring has received a grant to expand the weekly art clubs at Title I schools in Rutherford County.
Ø Jesse C. Beesley Animal Humane Foundation has received a grant to teach the basics of responsible pet care to third and fourth-grade students in Cannon and Rutherford Counties.
Ø Murfreesboro Symphony Orchestra has received a grant to conduct 25 symphonic concerts for students in Rutherford County and surrounding areas.
Ø Murfreesboro Youth Orchestra has received a grant to provide financial assistance and musical instruments for student musicians facing financial hardships.
Ø Read To Succeed has received a grant to provide books and materials for the family literacy program for at-risk students and their parents.
Ø Tennessee Animal Resource Center has received a grant to provide spay/neuter services and vaccinations for companion pets of low-income residents of Maury, Franklin, and Overton counties.
Ø Youth Empowerment Through Arts & Humanities (YEAH) has received a grant to create a recording studio for students to learn recording, composition and songwriting.
These contributions are part of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee’s annual grantmaking process that has distributed nearly $1 million to 198 nonprofit organizations throughout 30 Middle Tennessee counties.
Literacy Matters to the Community Foundation
December 4, 2009
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee has distributed more than $900,000 in grants to 198 nonprofit organizations in 30 Middle Tennessee counties as part of The Foundation’s annual grant making process.
“As needs in Middle Tennessee grow, the work of our nonprofit partners to provide vital services and innovative programs has never been more important,” said Ellen Lehman, president of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. “The Foundation is honored to connect generosity with need through our annual grantmaking, and congratulates nonprofits on their efforts to improve quality of life for our community.”
Read To Succeed has received a $2,500 grant for books and materials to provide family literacy programming to schools in Smyrna and LaVergne. Recent donations through the Celebrity Spelling Bee will cover salary and other costs. Children and families will be chosen based on need for this fun and educational instruction. Tutoring through the Read To Succeed Adult Literacy Program will be offered to participating parents.
Read To Succeed, the community literacy collaborative in Rutherford County, will promote reading, with an emphasis on family literacy. This non-profit initiative supports literacy programs and fosters awareness of the importance of reading. Please consider volunteering at www.readtosucceed.org
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee oversees more than 700 charitable funds. In the past 18 years, The Community Foundation has distributed $440 million to its nonprofit partners. It is located at 3833 Cleghorn Avenue, #400, Nashville, Tennessee 37215. For more information, call 615-321-4939 or visit www.cfmt.org.
Read To Succeed Reaps $32,836 From Spelling Bee
November 24, 2009
The annual Spelling Bee was a huge success for Rutherford County’s Read To Succeed program on Tuesday evening (11/24/09). Executive Director Ronni Shaw told the packed theatre at the Patterson Community Center that $32,836 was raised for the community literacy collaborative that promotes reading and family literacy.
The celebrity spellers read like a who’s who among movers and shakers. The final two were brain surgeon Dr. George Lien and Pastor Vincent Windrow, who also serves as MTSU’s director of Intercultural and Diversity Affairs. The winner had to spell two consecutive words correctly in order to win. Windrow’s winning word was “capricious”. (left photo L-R: Vincent Windrow receives the trophy from Ronni Shaw) Vincent keeps the prestigious cup for a year and returns it next fall to be passed on to the next top speller. Barb Ford was the 2008 “Top Bee”, and she buzzed-in with the award.
Celebrity Bee Judges were Don Ash, Larry Brandon and Diane Mackey. The Celebrity Spellers were Dr. Gloria Bonner, Angie Boyd-Chambers, Angela Floyd, Kelly Holcomb, Melinda Hudgins, Dr. George Lien, Rob Lyons, Dr. Sidney McPhee, Mark Pirtle, John Rodgers, Mark Sims, Lori Sain Smith, Ralph Vaughn, Ginny Williams, Vincent Windrow and the extremely brilliant MTSU mascot Lightning (below).
And Then There Were Two
With only two standing, tension filled the room and audience members hung-on to every syllable. As the finalists scribed the word on their palm, you could see the lips of viewers moving as the words were spelled. (below L-R) Vincent and George thought carefully before attempting to spell.
You Can Help
It’s not too late to help Read To Succeed. Check the local organization’s website: www.ReadToSucceed.org It points out . . .
Read To Succeed is an exciting community partnership created to promote literacy in our lives. The objective of this collaboration between schools, area agencies, and businesses is to support local literacy programs. The other main objective of the initiative is to raise community awareness about the fun and importance of reading.
Events such as Reading in the Schools Day and Reading Rally will take place throughout the year to promote reading in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County. See the Calendar of Events for upcoming activities and events. Volunteers are a vital part of our success. Learn how to get involved with Read To Succeed. Phone them and let them know you would like to help. Their telephone number is (615) 738-7323.
Overview From Ronni
“2009 Celebrity Bee Champion: Vincent Windrow, MTSU Director and Pastor of Olive Branch Baptist Church
Winning words: alchemy and capricious (better check my spelling) Second place: Dr. George Lien, out on the word Bolshevik. Other last three on stage: Ginny Williams of Gil’s Ace Hardware, John Rodgers, County Commissioner and Kelly Holcomb, NFL Quarterback. Thank you to all our supporters!”
2009 Read to Succeed Celebrity Spelling Bee
November 24, 2009
2009’s Read to Succeed Celebrity Spelling Bee was a smashing success. The competition, now in its third year, drew over 300 guests and was able to raise a grand total of $32,836 to go towards the promotion of literacy, in both children and adults, here in Rutherford County. Celebrity spellers this year included former NFL quarterback Kelly Holcomb, MTSU President Sidney McPhee, and new city manager Rob Lyons, among others. The final results; Kelly Holcomb came in third place, surgeon George Lien placed second, and MTSU director, pastor, and community activist Vincent Windrow took home top honors. The winning word? Capricious. C-A-P-R-I-C-I-O-U-S.
Tornados, Fires, Storms…Red Cross Needs Financial Donations
November 10, 2009
The Heart of Tennessee Chapter of the American Red Cross is proud to announce the two volunteer leaders who will be serving as Chair and Vice Chair for the 2010 Annual Fundraising Campaign set to kick off in January. Scott Walker, with WGNS radio, will serve as Chairman, while Jonathan Jones, with Red Realty, will be serving as Vice Chair of the campaign. L-R Jonathan Jones and Scott Walker go over plans for the campaign.
This year’s Campaign goal is $245,000. The Campaign is largely pledge-based where volunteers contact past and new financial donors to renew pledges for the coming year. “The Heart of Tennessee Chapter depends on the funds raised from this campaign in order to meet the needs of disaster victims, train our community in life-saving Health & Safety Courses and to serve our U.S. military members who rely on the Red Cross for emergencies, “said CEO, Greg King.
The 2010 Chair, Scott Walker is the Vice President of WGNS Radio and serves on the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters Board Directors for radio and television in Tennessee. Walker is also an active member of the Read to Succeed Executive Council in Murfreesboro. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Angie Heydel Walker and has two children ages Reed, eight and Olivia, five.
Walker is a 2003 graduate of Leadership Rutherford and is also a graduate of the National Association of Broadcasters Executive Development Program at Georgetown University. Walker is no stranger to the American Red Cross as he served on the Heart of Tennessee Chapter Board of Directors in 2001 and 2002. During that time, he also volunteered on the Disaster Action Team.
Vice Chair, Jonathan D. Jones, a resident of Rutherford County since 1992, graduated from Riverdale High School in 1999 and began his Real Estate career while attending Middle Tennessee State University. Since that time, he has received numerous accolades for his success in his chosen profession including Mega-Million Dollar Producer.
Active not only in his profession, Jonathan is a firm believer in community involvement. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes of Middle Tennessee; the Blackman High School Marketing Education Advisory Committee; as a Regional and State DECA Competition Judge; the Board of Directors for the Rutherford County YMCA; is a Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce Diplomat; and a 2009 Graduate of Leadership Rutherford.
Jonathan and Holly, his wife of eight years, reside in Murfreesboro and are the parents of two children, Emma, five, and Deacon, three. They are active members of New Vision Baptist Church.
The Heart of Tennessee Chapter of the American Red Cross provides vital emergency assistance to help victims of local disasters in Rutherford, Bedford, Cannon, Franklin, Coffee & Moore counties. Over the past year the Chapter trained nearly 15,000 people in CPR & First Aid, Babysitting and Aquatics training, and provided pre-deployment briefings and emergency communications for over 640 active duty military personnel and their families. Over 13,177 pints of life-saving blood were collected from the community last year. All of these services are made possible by over 320 dedicated local Red Cross volunteers as well as through generous gifts from the local community. To get more information please call 615) 893-4272 or log on to www.midtnredcross.org.
Local Red Cross Names Scott Walker as 2010 Fundraising Chair Jonathan Jones Named As Vice Chair
November 2, 2009
The Heart of Tennessee Chapter of the American Red Cross is about to begin its annual fundraising efforts. CEO Greg King said, “With the Good Friday tornado, recent flooding and numerous house fire, the local Red Cross has been able to help many local families get back on their feet after a personal disaster. The Red Cross is not a government agency, and the only way we can help is through community support.” King announced that the Heart of Tennessee Chapter is putting together volunteers who will manage its 2010 fundraising.
Walker to Serve as 2010 Fundraising Chair
Scott Walker will serve as chairman of the 2010 Red Cross local fundraising. He is the Vice President of WGNS Radio and serves on the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters Board Directors for radio and television in Tennessee. Walker is also an active member of the Read to Succeed Executive Council in Murfreesboro.
Walker is a 2003 graduate of Leadership Rutherford and is also a graduate of the National Association of Broadcasters Executive Development Program at Georgetown University.
He is no stranger to the American Red Cross. Walker served on the Red Cross, Heart of Tennessee Chapter Board of Directors in 2001 and 2002. During that time, he volunteered on the Disaster Action Team.
He also participated in the Rutherford County Sheriff’s and Murfreesboro Police Citizens Police Academies, the Cumberland University Equal Employment Opportunity training program for business owners and managers, and the annual MTSU College of Mass Communications Employment Seminar and Management Program for Broadcast Executives.
Walker has spent personal time volunteering with numerous organizations including the Rutherford County Christmas Parade and the New Vision Baptist Church Children’s Ministry Program. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Angie Heydel Walker and has two children: Olivia (age 5) and Reed (age 8).
Jones to Serve as 2010 Fundraising Vice Chair
Jonathan D. Jones will serve as the vice chair of the coming year’s Red Cross drive. He is a 1999 Riverdale High School graduate and began his Real Estate career while attending Middle Tennessee State University. Since that time, he has received numerous accolades for his success in his chosen profession including Mega-Million Dollar Producer.
Active not only in his profession, Jonathan is a firm believer in community involvement. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes of Middle Tennessee; the Blackman High School Marketing Education Advisory Committee; as a Regional and State DECA Competition Judge; the Board of Directors for the Rutherford County YMCA; is a Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce Diplomat; and a 2009 Graduate of Leadership Rutherford.
Jonathan is more than excited to now be associated with The American Red Cross Heart of Tennessee Chapter as the Vice-Chair of the 2010 Annual Fundraising Campaign. With plenty of contacts throughout the Region and his ability to build relationships easily, he will be a valued asset of the 2010 Campaign Team.
Jonathan and Holly, his wife of eight years, reside in Murfreesboro and are the parents of two children: Emma (age 5) and Deacon (age 3). They are active members of New Vision Baptist Church.
Heart of Tennessee Red Cross Has Rich History
The Murfreesboro based Red Cross celebrates its 92nd anniversary in about four-weeks. In addition to its well known blood drive, the Red Cross continues to be the link between military personnel and their families in times of crisis. This can be the birth of a new child at home or the death of a close family member. That was its main service when Clara Barton established the Red Cross in 1881. Now they train volunteers in disaster assistance, and those persons help when needs arise locally and around the world. The Heart of Tennessee Chapter helps when tornados, fires, flood and other disasters strike our community. In addition, they help when major crises of this type impact others in the U.S. and around the world. They also offer classes in CPR, first air, baby sitting safety, swimming, life-guard, and more. The Murfreesboro Red Cross is located at 836 Commercial Court. Their telephone number is (615) 893-4272 or check the internet at www.midtnredcross.org.
National Dyslexia Awareness Month
October 23, 2009
In an effort to promote greater knowledge and understanding of dyslexia and related learning disabilities, the Board of Directors of the International Dyslexia Association has designated the month of October as National Dyslexia Awareness Month. Dyslexia is a learning disorder that causes difficulty in reading and spelling.
Parents, teachers, and other interested individuals are invited to attend the Dyslexia Information Forum, 6:25-8 p.m. on October 27 at Linebaugh Library. Join us for information on dyslexia, plus personal stories and advice from persons affected by dyslexia. A question and answer time will be available.
The panel members will be: Janet Camp, vice president of the Upper Middle TN Region of the Tennessee Branch of the International Dyslexia Association; Caresa Young, director of Vanderbilt Kennedy Reading Clinic; Dr. Amiee Holt, school psychology professor at MTSU; Erin Alexander, school psychologist for the Tennessee Center for the Study & Treatment of Dyslexia; Judy Oliff, resource teacher for Murfreesboro City Schools; and Elizabeth Smith, speech-language pathologist, MTSU Speech Clinic.
Persons interested in attending are asked to please RSVP to Grace James, 494-8880 or dyslexia@mtsu.edu. This program is co-sponsored by the Tennessee Branch of the International Dyslexia Association, Region 4; Linebaugh Public Library; Read to Succeed; and the Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia.
Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St. in Murfreesboro. The Library is the cornerstone of our community, enriching lives through free resources for learning, fun, and opportunity. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visit www.linebaugh.org.
Read To Succeed’s and Park’s Not So Scary Haunted Trail
October 23, 2009
The Not So Scary Haunted Trail Friday night at Barfield Crescent Park proved to be fun for all who attended. The annual event is sponsored by the Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department and Read To Succeed. If you missed it, there’s another night of fun starting at 5:00 Saturday evening (10/24/09). There is a charge of $3 for this ride.
L-R ID above photo: (1) John-Mark Kennedy, Randi Thomas, Vada Thomas; (2) Greg, Deana, Gabriel, and Lucas Ratto
L-R ID above photo: (1) Mathew and Jessica Warrren, Brook and Danielle Lunsford; (2) Andy Womack and his grandson Mason Womack. As you can see, READING IS FUN everywhere! For more about this group, check their website: www.ReadToSucceed.org
Support Local Art
October 21, 2009
If your art group is not listed, please let us know. Send to news@WGNSradio.com
| Organization | Business Type | Contact Name |
| Artsy Mamas | Art Associations | www.theartsymamas.com |
| Stones River Craft Guild | Art Associations | www.stonesrivercraft.org |
| Attic School of Art | Art Education | www.theatticartschool.com |
| Faithful Strokes | Art Education | www.faithfulstrokes.com |
| Golden House Studio | Art Education | www.goldenhousestudio.com/index.html |
| MTSU Department of Art | Art Education | http://frank.mtsu.edu/~art |
| Murfreesboro/Rutherford Art League | Art Education | www.mral.net |
| Southern Girls Rock and Roll Camp | Art Education | www.sgrrc.org |
| Tennessee Governors’ School for the Arts | Art Education | www.mtsu.edu/~gschool.com |
| The Pottery Place | Art Education | |
| Youth Empowerment Through Arts and Humanities (YEAH) | Art Education | www.yeahintheboro.org |
| Baldwin Photo Gallery, Learing Resource Center at MTSU | Art Galleries | |
| MTSU Todd Art Galleries | Art Galleries | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~art/barngallery/index.html |
| Anastasia’s Attic | Artisan Retailers | http://www.facebook.com/pages/Murfreesboro-TN/Anastasias/64239217993 |
| Bungalow Antiques and Gifts | Artisan Retailers | |
| Cornerstone Cheesecake and Gifts | Artisan Retailers | www.ccakes.com/artists.htm |
| Country Gourmet | Artisan Retailers | www.shopcountrygourmet.com/ |
| Magnolia House Gifts and Garden | Artisan Retailers | www.magnoliahousegifts.com/ |
| Mesh Boutique | Artisan Retailers | www.mesh-boutique.com/ |
| Ray Hines and Co. | Artisan Retailers | www.feedontheword.com/ |
| The Peddler | Artisan Retailers | www.peddlerinteriors.com/ |
| The Write Impression | Artisan Retailers | www.facebook.com/pages/Murfreesboro-TN/The-Write-Impression/96393686283 |
| International Folkloric Society | Associations | www.mboro-international-folkfest.org/society.htm |
| MainStreet Murfreesboro/Rutherford County, Inc. | Associations | www.downtownmurfreesboro.com |
| Middle Tennessee Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. | Associations | www.mtgms.org/ |
| Read To Succeed | Associations | www.readtosucceed.org |
| Alan Daigre- Handcrafted Chairs and Rockers | Craft Artisans | www.appalachianlifeworkshops.com/ |
| Brown View Forge | Craft Artisans | www.brownviewforge.com/ |
| Designs by Elesa | Craft Artisans | www.designsbyelesa.net/ |
| Fuhrman Glass Studios | Craft Artisans | www.fuhrmanglass.com/ |
| Joe Brown- Artist Blacksmith | Craft Artisans | www.brownviewforge.com/ |
| Juliano Pottery | Craft Artisans | www.julianopottery.com/ |
| Knaughty Knitter | Craft Artisans | www.knaughtyknitter.typepad.com |
| Laladex Press | Craft Artisans | www.laladexpress.com/ |
| Leslie Roberts Tile Studio | Craft Artisans | www.meepcamp.com/Leslie/Works.html |
| Painted Clay Studio | Craft Artisans | www.paintedclaystudio.com/index.html |
| Popcorn Studio Pottery | Craft Artisans | www.popcornpottery.com |
| Ramsey Hall Jewelry | Craft Artisans | www.ramseyhalljewelry.com/ |
| Southern Stained Glass | Craft Artisans | www.southernstainedglass.com |
| Studio J Jewelry | Craft Artisans | |
| Studio S | Craft Artisans | www.studiospottery.com |
| Vickie Vipperman Weaving Studio | Craft Artisans | www.vickievippermanweavingstudio.com/ |
| Baker Performance Academy | Dance | www.bakerperformanceacademy.com |
| Barfield School of Dance | Dance | www.barfieldschoolofdance.com |
| Dance Academy | Dance | |
| Dance City | Dance | www.dancecitymboro.com |
| Dance with Stacey (Smyrna) | Dance | www.dancewithstacey.com |
| Dancer’s School | Dance | www.thedancersschool.com |
| DanceWorks | Dance | www.danceworksinc.com |
| Gena’s School of Dance | Dance | |
| Leslie Hall School of Dance | Dance | www.lesdance.com |
| MTSU Dance Department | Dance | www.mtsu.edu/dance/specialevents.shtml |
| Southern Grace at Fairhaven | Etiquette Courses | www.mysoutherngrace.com/contact.html |
| Art Studio Tour | Events | http://web.me.com/artstudiotour/STUDIO_TOUR/Welcome.html |
| Celebrate Christmas Downtown | Events | www.downtownmurfreesboro.com/index.php |
| Express Yourself Arts Conference | Events | www.readtosucceed.org |
| First Fridays | Events | www.downtownmurfreesboro.com/events/ |
| Greenway Art Festival | Events | www.murfreesborotn.gov/default.aspx?ekmenu=316&id=6161 |
| International Street Festival | Events | www.mboro-international-folkfest.org/ |
| Jazz Fest | Events | www.mainstreetjazzfest.com/ |
| Lovin’ Downtown | Events | www.downtownmurfreesboro.com/events/ |
| Old Timer’s Day | Events | www.lavergne.org/otd/ |
| Uncle Dave Macon Days | Events | www.uncledavemacondays.com/ |
| Appletone’s Creative Framers | Fine Artists | www.appletonscreativeframers.com |
| Debbie Mayfield | Fine Artists | www.dmayfieldartist.com/ |
| Emory’s Fine Art | Fine Artists | www.art-mart.com |
| Heritage Galleries | Fine Artists | |
| Jamison Galleries | Fine Artists | www.jeffjamisonstudio.com |
| Jeff Mayfield | Fine Artists | www.jeffmayfieldartist.com/ |
| Norris Hall Studio | Fine Artists | www.norrishallshop.com |
| Steve’s Fine Arts Studio & Gallery | Fine Artists | www.stevesfineart.com |
| The Art House | Fine Artists | |
| The Frame Gallery | Fine Artists | |
| Eagleville Bicentennial Library | Libraries | www.linebaugh.org/eagleville.htm |
| Linebaugh Library | Libraries | www.linebaugh.org/index.htm |
| Myrtle Glanton Lord Library | Libraries | www.linebaugh.org/mgl/general.htm |
| Smyrna Public Library | Libraries | www.linebaugh.org/smyrna/general.htm |
| Barnes and Noble- Murfreesboro | Literary Arts | www.store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/store/2292 |
| Albert Gore Research Center | Museums | www.janus.mtsu.edu/ |
| Beechcraft Heritage Museum | Museums | www.beechcraftheritagemuseum.org/ |
| Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center | Museums | www.mainstreetjazzfest.com/ |
| Cannonsburgh Village | Museums | www.murfreesborotn.gov/default.aspx?ekmenu=126&id=3020 |
| Discovery Center at Murfree Spring | Museums | www.thediscoverycenter.org |
| Oaklands Historic House and Museum | Museums | www.oaklandsmuseum.org |
| Rutherford County Archives | Museums | rutherfordcounty.org/archives |
| Rutherford County Courthouse | Museums | rutherfordcounty.org |
| Sam Davis Home | Museums | www.samdavishome.org/ |
| Stones River Battlefield | Museums | www.nps.gov/stri/index.htm |
| The Heritage Centr | Museums | downtownmurfreesboro.com |
| Middle Tennessee Choral Society | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/choralsociety.html |
| MTSU Band of Blue | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Brass Choir | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Clarinet Choir | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Concert Chorale | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Department of Recording Industry | Music | www.mtsu.edu/~record |
| MTSU Double Reed Ensemble | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Flute Choir | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Guitar Ensembles | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Horn Ensembles | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Jazz Combos | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Jazz Ensembles | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Meisterstingers | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Opera Workshop | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Percussion Ensemble | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Piano Ensembles | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Salsa Band | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Saxaphone Ensembles | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Schola Cantorum | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU School of Music | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ |
| MTSU Singers | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Small Brass Ensembles | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Symphonic Band | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Symphony Orchestra | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Trombone Ensemble | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU University Chorus | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Wind Ensembel | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Women’s Chorale | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| MTSU Woodwin Chamber Ensemble | Music | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~music/ensembles.html |
| Murfreesboro Symphony Orchestra | Music | www.Murfreesborosymphony.com |
| Murfreesboro Youth Orchestra | Music | www.myorchestra.org |
| Grand Palace Records | Music Publishing | www.grandpalace.us |
| Concert Production and Musical | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.realpagessites.com/concertproduction/ |
| Gear Closet Audio | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.gearclosetaudio.com/ |
| Guitar Heaven, LLC | Music Supplies/Instruction | |
| Guitar Mill | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.guitarmill.com |
| Johnny Guitar’s Music Shops | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.johnnyguitars.com |
| Johnny Guitar’s Music Shops | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.johnnyguitars.com/ |
| Jonathan Fletcher | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.jonathanfletchermusic.com/ |
| Low End Bass Guitar Shop | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.thelowend.com |
| Main Street Music | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.myworld.ebay.com/main.street.music.tn |
| Milnar Organ Company | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.milnarorgan.com/ |
| Music and Arts Center | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.musicarts.com/ |
| Music Stop | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.themusicstop.com |
| Music World | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.musicworldjam.com |
| Ralph’s Piano Services | Music Supplies/Instruction | |
| Shady Grove Music Group | Music Supplies/Instruction | |
| String Shop/Tech Shop | Music Supplies/Instruction | www.techshopguitars.com/ |
| 527 Main Street | Music Venues | www.527mainstreet.com |
| Arrington Vineyards and Winery | Music Venues | www.arringtonvineyards.com |
| Blue Rooster | Music Venues | www.roosterparty.com |
| Bonhoeffer’s | Music Venues | http://www.facebook.com/pages/Murfreesboro-TN/Bonhoeffers/24006395901 |
| Bunganut Pig | Music Venues | www.bunganutpig.net/ |
| Café Latte Coffee Company | Music Venues | http://www.facebook.com/pages/Murfreesboro-TN/Cafe-Latte/110404097207 |
| Chais Music Hall | Music Venues | www.walkinghorsehotel.com/ |
| Coconut Bay Café | Music Venues | www.coconutbaycafe.net/calendars.php |
| JoZoara’s Coffee Shop | Music Venues | www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=13039352300# |
| Liquid Smoke | Music Venues | |
| Maple Street Grille | Music Venues | www.maplestreetgrill.com/Home_Page.php |
| Miller’s Grocery | Music Venues | www.millersgrocery.com/ |
| The Boro Bar and Grill | Music Venues | www.myspace.com/theboro |
| The Vine | Music Venues | www.thevineonvine.com/ |
| The Walnut House | Music Venues | www.myspace.com/walnuthouse |
| Wall Street | Music Venues | www.myspace.com/wallstreetmurfreesboro |
| Youth Empowerment Through Arts and Humanities (YEAH) | Music Venues | http://yeahintheboro.org |
| Community Crossroads | Performance Listings | www.communitycrossroads.com/ |
| Murfreesboro Post | Performance Listings | www.murfreesboropost.com/mod/calendar/index.php |
| Now Playing Nashville | Performance Listings | www.nowplayingnashville.com |
| Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce | Performance Listings | www.rutherfordchamber.org/cvb/visitors/calendar.php |
| Rutherford Weekend | Performance Listings | www.dnj.com/section/WEEKEND |
| The Boro Party | Performance Listings | www.boroparty.dnj.com/section/boroparty |
| WGNS AM/FM | Performance Listings | www.wgnsradio.com |
| WMOT Jazz 89.5FM (MTSU) |
Performance Listings | www.wmot.org/ |
| WMTS 88.3FM (MTSU) |
Performance Listings | www.frank.mtsu.edu/~wmts/ |
| Amanda L Logan Photography | Photography | |
| Brenda’s Photography | Photography | www.brendasphotography.net |
| Coleman Art Photography | Photography | www.photographyforlife.net# |
| DL images | Photography | www.dlimages.com# |
| Everlasting Photography | Photography | |
| Golden Memories Photography | Photography | www.gmphoto.us |
| Jones Photography | Photography | |
| Judith Black Photography | Photography | www.judithblackphotography.com |
| Ken Robinson Photography | Photography | www.kenrobinsonphotography.com |
| Lasting Images Photography | Photography | www.lasting-images.net |
| Loveless Images Photography | Photography | www.lovelessphotography.net |
| Made in Murfreesboro Photography | Photography | www.madeinmurfreesboro.com |
| McDougal Photography | Photography | www.mcdougalphotography.com |
| Michael’s Photography | Photography | www.michaelsphotoinc.com |
| Morgan’s Photography | Photography | www.morgansphoto.com |
| Murphy’s Photography | Photography | www.murphystudio.com |
| Photography by Guthrie | Photography | www.photographybyguthrie.com/ |
| Pix by Kathy | Photography | |
| Pro-Images | Photography | www.proimagesphotography.net |
| Rory White Photography | Photography | www.rorywhite.com |
| Shacklett’s Photography | Photography | www.shacklettsphotography.com |
| Southern Photography | Photography | www.southernphotography.net |
| Studio Z | Photography | www.studiozavisa.com |
| Sweet Images Photography | Photography | www.sweetimagesphotography.com |
| Tara McCamey Photography | Photography | www.photobytara.com |
| Three Trees Portraits and Photography | Photography | www.threetreesphotos.com |
| Wilson’s Photography | Photography | www.Wilsonsphotography.net |
| Center for the Arts | Theatre | www.boroarts.org |
| Lamplighter’s Theatre | Theatre | www.lamplighterstheatre.net |
| MTSU Department of Speech and Theatre | Theatre | www.mtsu.edu/speechandtheatre/ |
| MTSU Department of Theatre and Dance | Theatre | www.mtsu.edu/theatre/faculty.shtml |
| MTSU Department of Theatre and Dance | Theatre | www.mtsu.edu/~theatre |
| Murfreesboro Little Theatre | Theatre | www.MLTARTS.com |
| Sunshine Players | Theatre | www.murfreesborotn.gov/default.aspx?ekmenu=316&id=6866 |
| Theatre at Patterson Park | Theatre | www.murfreesborotn.gov/government/parks_rec/cultural_arts /cultural_programs.htm |
| Arrington Vineyards and Winery | Wineries | www.arringtonvineyards.com/ |
| Beans Creek Winery | Wineries | www.beanscreekwinery.com |
| Murfreesboro Writer’s Group | Writing | www.store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/store/2292 |
| Rutherford Writers Ink | Writing | www.linebaugh.org/linebaugh/events.html |
Read To Succeed: Breaking the Poverty Cycle through Literacy
October 16, 2009
Read To Succeed in Rutherford County is part of a national network of literacy organizations offering adult education tutoring to help Americans break the poverty cycle that too often passes from one generation to the next.
The U.S. House of Representatives designated the week of October 18 as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. This comes on the heels of Census Bureau data released in late September that revealed that the official poverty rate in 2008 was 13.2 percent, up from 12.5 percent in 2007. The U.S. Department of Education also reported earlier this year that 32 million American adults do not read, write or do basic math above an eighth grade level.
“Education remains the most successful tool we have to fight poverty,” said Ronni Shaw, Executive Director of Read To Succeed. “Our adult literacy program matches trained tutors with adults to help them improve reading, writing and language skills, and to then pass that on to their family members as a means to break the cycle.”
Read To Succeed’s adult literacy program includes one –on-one tutoring training, ESL training, and job skill classes.
Read To Succeed is a member of ProLiteracy, the world’s largest organization of adult basic education and literacy programs, and is one of 1,200 community-based organizations that make up the ProLiteracy network.
“In the U.S., one out of seven adults has below-basic literacy skills,” said David C. Harvey, president and CEO of ProLiteracy. “The problem is being further exacerbated as less-educated adults lose their jobs and are further subjected to poverty. Initiatives such as designating Adult Education and Family Literacy Week help us open the eyes of the public, businesses and government officials to this growing American crisis.”
In recognition of Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, Read To Succeed placing information and a display board at Linebaugh Public Library.
For more information on Read To Succeed’s services, visit www.readtosucceed.org or call 615-738-7323. Adults and educators can also find free, online tip sheets, podcasts and courses from ProLiteracy’s partner’s Thinkfinity Literacy Network at http://literacynetwork.verizon.org/TLN/ and Verizon Thinkfinity at http://thinkfinity.org/home.aspx.
About ProLiteracy
ProLiteracy, based in Syracuse, champions the power of literacy to improve the lives of adults and their families, communities, and societies. It works with adult new readers and learners and with local and national organizations to help adults gain the reading, writing, math, computer, and English skills they need to be successful. ProLiteracy advocates on behalf of adult learners and the programs that serve them, provides training and professional development, and publishes materials used in adult literacy instruction. ProLiteracy has 1,200 member programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia and works with 125 nongovernmental international agencies. For more information, please go to www.ProLiteracy.org and www.NewReadersPress.com
Softball: Lady Raiders Head To Knoxville For Fall Exhibition Games
October 14, 2009
The Middle Tennessee softball team will travel to Knoxville this weekend to take on a trio of opponents including host Tennessee to wrap up its fall exhibition season.
"This weekend is strictly exhibition," said Blue Raider head coach Sue Nevar (left photo). "However, when Middle Tennessee and Tennessee get together, there are strong bragging rights at stake so we want to go out and show well."
Middle Tennessee will open the series of games at 8 a.m. Saturday verses Chipola College (Fla.) and then take on the Lady Vols at Noon. The conclusion of the action will be Sunday with contests against Vol State at Noon and Walter State at 4 p.m. All games will be played at the Sherri Parker Lee Softball Stadium on the Tennessee campus.
Four Blue Raiders named to NFCA 2009 Scholar-Athlete Team (Academic All-American is trademarked by CoSIDA)
Martha Davis, Caty Jutson, Caitlin McLure and Lindsey VanderLugt were recognized as Scholar-Athletes by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association for their outstanding play in the 2009 season.
"I’m very proud of my players. They join a long list of Middle Tennessee athletes to receive this honor. Student-athletes are students first and should be recognized for their accomplishments in the classroom."
Team to conclude fall practices October 22
The Blue Raiders will conclude full fall team practices on October 22. The team will then break into small, specifically coached groups to hone individual skills.
"We’ve had some great workouts this fall. We are identifying weaknesses and making them strengths. This year’s freshmen players are coming along well and they will be asked to play a major role for us in the spring."
Winter hitting clinic announced
The Blue Raider softball team will host its Winter Hitting Clinic on January 10 in the Auxiliary Gymnasium of Murphy Center. The clinic is open to all participants.
Softball in the community
The Middle Tennessee softball team volunteered at the Homer-Pittard Elementary Fall Festival and with the "Read to Succeed" program on International Reading Day. International Reading Day was celebrated Sept. 9 and focused on the need for promoting and increasing worldwide literacy. The Blue Raiders read to a group of students at Northfield Elementary School in Murfreesboro.
Team opened fall exhibition slate with Chicago tournament
The teams traveled to Chicago for an exhibition series Sept. 25-27 with Saint Xavier University, Illinois-Chicago and DePaul. The team got valuable in-game experience that will be vital during the spring season.
"The experience we gained in Chicago verses some strong Midwest schools was very important. Our freshman, who will play a large role in the spring, got their first collegiate game under their belts, which is a good thing."
Rain Did Not Spoil Reading Rally
September 26, 2009
Read To Succeed’s Reading Rally was not ruined by rain. Instead, the events at the Linebaugh, Smyrna and La Vergne Public Libraries moved inside while the area remained under a flood watch for most of the morning.
Reading Rally At Linebaugh in Murfreesboro
Left Photo: Read To Succeed Executive Director Ronni Shaw (center) with Americorps/Vista volunteer Shelly Stanley (left) and her husband Milton Stanley, who is also a Read to Succeed volunteer; (Center Photo) There’s nothing like Dad reading to his daughters. (Right Photo) A youngster (inset) watches skeptically as Dr. Seuss’ Cat In A Hat greets him.
Youngster gathered around the rocking chair for their favorite story books. The Murfreesboro Police were on hand to give out youth stick on badges. Plus, storybook characters got a variety of responses from the youngsters.
Plus, the rain brought new excitement into the library. Residents signed-up for new library cards and there was much activity at the check-out desk.
Smyrna Library Reading Rally
La Vergne Public Library’s Reading Rally
Rutherford County Reading Rally, 9-26-09
September 26, 2009
After a minor change of plans thanks to good old mother nature, the Rutherford County Reading Rally was underway on Saturday, September 26th. Taking place simultaneously at three library locations in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, and Lavergne, the rally was billed as a “festival to celebrate the written word”, organized as a joint venture between Rutherford County, Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation, and Read to Succeed. The rally, which is in it’s seventh year, featured book readings, door prizes, appearances by several beloved children’s characters, and much, much more. Event organizers were pleased with the turnout despite the weather, and look forward to hosting a rally again next year. For more, visit ReadtoSucceed.org and Linebaugh.org.
Read To Succeed
September 24, 2009
The annual Read to Succeed Reading in Schools Day took place on Thursday. Hundreds of volunteers read a variety of books to children in K through 6th grade classrooms throughout Rutherford County.
Some readers (as you can see below), dressed in costumes that matched the theme of the book that was read. The below pictures were taken by Kathy Brown from Southeastern Tire who read to students at Scales Elementary in Murfreesboro.
Reading in Schools Day Today
September 24, 2009
Hundreds of volunteers will be reading to children in schools today all throughout Rutherford County. Today is Reading in Schools day and Ronni Shaw, the Executive Director of Read to Succeed, tells us the day is meant to promote the importance of reading to children.
Shaw also told us that Saturday is the Reading Rally on the Murfreesboro Civic Plaza.
Again, the Reading Rally will be this Saturday on at the corner of South Church and Vine Streets.
HUGE Saturday for FREE EVENTS in DOWNTOWN MURFREESBORO
September 23, 2009
A large number of events are planned for the downtown area over the next several weeks in Murfreesboro.
The Alzhimers Memory Walk takes place on Saturday. Registration for the walk will open at 9am. You can register for the walk in the NHC parking lot on S. Church Street, next to the Linebaugh Library.
The annual Reading Rally will be on Saturday. It is organized by Read to Succeed and our local library system. The Rally will host a wide number of games for children and the event is free. It begins at 10am in front of the Murfreesboro Civic Plaza (Intersection of Church St. and Vine St.).
Also taking place Saturday (Sept. 26), Rev. Carl Marable will be hosting a Block Party on State Street at 3:00.
Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center is having its 1st Annual Heritage Festival Art Contest. All mediums will be accepted; painting must be on canvas or canvas board. Competing age groups are 6-9, 10-13, and 14-17.
Cash prizes for each group are: 1st place $75, 2nd place $50, and 3rd place $25. The entry deadline is Saturday, October 17, at 1:00 p.m. All artwork must be at Bradley by that time.
The awards ceremony will be at the Heritage Festival on October 24 at 1:00 pm. There is an entry form; these can be obtained from Bradley Academy Museum and should be distributed to the children’s schools soon.
The Rutherford County African American Heritage Festival will be on Saturday, October 24 between 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. The event will be at the Bradley Academy Museum located on 415 Academy Street.
During the event at Bradley, music, education, turnip green cook-off, food, and more will be a part of the festivities.
For more information, contact Katie Wilson at 867-2633.
September 24th And 26th Are “READ” Letter Days
September 10, 2009
On Thursday, September 24th every pre-kindergarten through 6th grade classroom in Rutherford County will host a volunteer reader as part of Read To Succeed’s 7th annual Reading in the Schools Day. Private, City, and County Schools will all participate in this day to highlight the pleasures of reading and underscore the importance to reading aloud to children.
Volunteer To Read
Read To Succeed Executive Director Ronni Shaw said, “If you’d like to read in a school please visit www.readtosucceed.org. Click on Reading in the Schools Day and contact the coordinator of your preferred school.” She also noted that volunteer tutors are needed to work one-on-one in the adult literacy program.
Reading in the School’s Day is followed by Reading Rally on Saturday, September 26th. This celebration of the written word is a free, public, family event held from 10 AM until 1:00 PM occurring simultaneously on the grounds of Linebaugh, Smyrna, and LaVergne Libraries. Call your local library for more information about your Reading Rally.
Read To Succeed, the community literacy collaborative in Rutherford County, will promote reading, with an emphasis on family literacy. This non-profit initiative supports literacy programs and fosters awareness of the importance of reading. www.readtosucceed.org
READ TO SUCCEED Needs Tutors…Training Tuesdays In September
August 27, 2009
The local READ TO SUCCEED program that helps teach adults to learn how to read, needs volunteers. Executive Director Ronni Shaw said, “We want our tutors to be comfortable with what to do, and so a series of training classes is being offered each Tuesday evening in September.”
The classes begin September 1st and are 5:30 to 8:30 in the evening at the LON NUEL FAMILY LITERACY CENTER, located in First Baptist Church on the corner of East Main and Spring Streets.
Shaw noted that words can’t describe the feeling you get after teaching someone to read and have them share the joy they have had at reading to their children or even using the phone book. “Things we take for granted become very special for new adult readers”.
For more information, contact Shelly Stanley at (615) 738-7323 or e-mail read.to.succeed@comcast.net.
Stockstill likes teams mental approach
August 21, 2009
Stockstill on Friday’s Practice: “It was a nice practice today. I was pleased with the way we competed and the effort they displayed the entire practice. We had a lot of good second-effort plays today and I really liked their mental approach, especially with this being the 15th practice. The leadership was much better today. Everyone did a good job of fighting through the workout.”
Stockstill on QB Dwight Dasher: “He continues to get better with each practice, especially in his fundamentals. He has a great attitude, is listening to Tony (Franklin) and taking coaching extremely well. He has been a positive leader on the team and for the offense.”
Stockstill on Saturday Scrimmage: “Basically, we scrimmage every day but Saturday is tackling to the ground rather than staying on your feet. We are just going to let them play and see how much we have improved over the last week and see how fast we can play on both sides of the ball. The coaches are not going to be telling them what to do because we want to see if they can get lined up right, have good fundamentals, and are game ready. This is the last major test for us to figure out our two-deep heading into the season opener.”
Q&A with RB Phillip Tanner:
How does being a senior and taking on a leadership role affect your spot in the backfield? “It is huge to know that I am like the only back to have game experience. We have a bunch of newer guys with new experience. We had D.D. (Kyles) and Marquise (Branton) in the spring. They are really learning a lot and improving more and more everyday. Other young guys, like Benjamin Cunningham are looking good too. Everyday is an improvement. Some things come with experience, but everyone is catching on to it really fast.”
What does it mean to you entering your senior year that you are really the only running back with a lot of experience? “It means a lot and is a lot on my shoulders. But, I accept the challenge. I tell the guys playing behind me all the time to come to practice everyday to compete for a starting spot and not come in and say ‘I am playing behind Phillip Tanner. Just come in and compete as if you will be a starter. In that case, they give it their all.”
How do you see the offense progressing thus far in camp? “We are looking really good and coming together as a team. There is still a lot of stuff we need to work on, as far as tempo and things like that. I feel, as a whole, everyone is buying into the new offense and having fun.”
The up-tempo offense that Coach Franklin is installing, is it the way you thought it would be to this point or is it still a work-in-progress? “We are loving it. We are buying into it, but there is still a lot of room for improvement. That is why we come out here everyday to get better everyday.”
Today is the final two-a-day. Walk us through how those practices affect you physically and mentally. “It is tough all the way around the clock from the mental aspects to meetings to the physical aspect where your legs are dead. Normally at the end of 22 periods in practice, you go home and get rest. But on two-a-days, you break practice and come right back out here and do it again. Pretty much, the locker room is our home. You spend more time in the locker room lying on the floor than your own bed. But at the end of it all, I will sit back and think it is my last one as a collegiate athlete. It is a bittersweet moment, knowing the tough part is out of the way, but at the same time, I know I will not have another one.”
Q&A with S Jeremy Kellem
How do you see the progress of the defense shaping up thus far in camp? “First of all, I want to thank the Lord most importantly. Without Him, you cannot do anything, but with Him, you can do anything. “I think the defense has been shaping up really well. I think we are coming together as a team and want each other to succeed. As individuals, we all have the mindset we want to make the play coach wants us to make and be playmakers. In order for our defense to be successful, all 11 of us or whoever is on the field want to be playmakers. We are all coming together as a team and root for each other on the sidelines. We are teaching each other. One thing Coach (Manny) Diaz is teaching in this camp is not to be sensitive. Basically, if a teammate comes and tells you ‘to do this or do this right,’ then do not be sensitive and get offended. Just look at them and say ‘I will go out there and do it.’ That will help us come together more as a unit and get rid of the individual mindset.”
What is the status of the defensive backs to this point? “I call the defensive backs the state of Florida since pretty much everyone in the group is from Florida. I think we are shaping up really good. As far as me, Alex Suber, Kevin (Brown) and (Rod) Issac we will be playing together for a second year. We know each other and communicate well. As a secondary, we are coming together really well. We just have to perfect our techniques, assignments and alignments and keep getting better.”
How does the new up-tempo offense affect what you do as a defensive back? “With the spread, it is all about speed. Sometimes, they just attack. After one play where you may blitz, you have to get back on the other side of the line of scrimmage and get the play, get located and lined up. It is causing you to get lined up faster, which helps you get in shape in practice. Clemson does not run a spread like we do. I think if we play our offense more like a pro-style, traditional huddle, then we will be in even more shape and get lined up faster. With the spread, it is helping us get to the line quicker.”
Tomorrow is the final scrimmage of the fall. What are your expectations coming off the last scrimmage heading in? “I want to go out with no injuries, give great effort, and eliminate the missed assignments. The first scrimmage you are going to have a lot of busted coverages, but now we have two weeks under our belts with all the plays in. We want to go out there and not miss an assignment and go all out and just play. Everyone on offense and defense just wants to be a playmaker.”
Notes: Congratulations to Wide Receivers Coach Justin Watts and his wife Lauren with the arrival of a baby boy on Thursday evening (Chase Michael Watts) … During the team portion of the morning practice, Dwight Dasher had four touchdown passes including three in a row from 45 or more yards out. The first TD was a gorgeous pass to a diving Desmond Gee that covered 50 yards.
NEXT PRACTICE: The Blue Raiders will practice on Saturday at 4:10 PM. The practice is closed to the public.
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Area Nonprofits to Learn Survival Strategies for Tough Times
August 19, 2009
Just like the business world, in these challenging economic times some non-profit groups emotionally ignited partners and succeed as never before—others struggle to survive. Community service organizations in Rutherford , Cannon, Bedford and Coffee counties are encouraged to attend a session at Murfreesboro’s Patterson Park Community Center that begins at 11:30 Wednesday morning, September 16th, and continues until 1:00 o’clock. Nashville’s Center for Nonprofit Management, in partnership with Read To Succeed and Rutherford LEAP, will present “Weathering the Economic Storm”.
Who Are The Presenters
· Raquel Hatter, CEO, Family & Children’s Service
· Sarah Ann Ezzell, Vice Chair, Family & Children’s Service
· Susannah Shumate, Executive Director, Nashville Civic Design Center
· John Key, Executive Director, Community Servants
· Ronni Shaw, Executive Director, Read To Succeed
The speakers will share ideas and survival strategies for challenging economic times, and attendees will have opportunities to exchange ideas with their peers.
Lunch and Learn Too
Lunch will be provided from 11:30 a.m. until noon, with presentations and discussions from noon until 1:00 p.m. Patterson Park is located at 521 Mercury Blvd in Murfreesboro. Attendance and lunch are free; however, reservations must be made no later than Friday, September 11th. To make a reservation, contact: Ellen Hingst, Director of Education, Center for Nonprofit Management. Phone: (615) 259-3911 extension 15, or e-mail her at ellen@cnm.org
For more information, contact Amelia King Bozeman, (615) 456-4374, or Amelia@rutherfordleap.org
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