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April 1 - 15, 2009 2

Real Estate Today

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Calendar of Events

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Sudoku

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Word Search

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Mortgage Matters

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Interior Design

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Help! I’m Shrinkin’ Dr. Steve Olivas

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Hickman Happenings

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Run on Jane

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Pets 101

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BOOST Your Life

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Consumer Tips

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Bright Spots with Sawrie Becker

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Green 101

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Councilman’s Corner Charlie Tygard

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Take Your Best Shot Kaye Ivanoff, RN

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Mommy Talk

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COUPONS !!!

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EuroBronz Tanning Studio Is “A Shade Above the Rest” by Nancy W. Brown With the first warm days of spring come thoughts of shorts and tank tops… and trading pale winter skin for a golden glow. EuroBronz Tanning Studio provides a safe, controlled environment for that all-important early base tan. There are three locations conveniently situated around Nashville, including the newly opened studio in the Nashville West shopping center off Charlotte Pike, one in Brentwood and one in Hendersonville. EuroBronz has been in business for 14 years, making it one of the oldest tanning salons in the Nashville area. “We believe in safety first,” notes co-owner Mark Hemphill, “and have always maintained the highest standards in equipment and employee training.” Because of this, the upscale tanning studio caters to many country music performers, models, wrestlers and other entertainers. “They know they can count on us,” Hemphill says. Employees are all SmartTan certified, meaning they’ve taken classes and passed an exam on how the tanning Continued on page 8

Pepsi 300 race field hopes Edwards flops rather than flips

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By Randy Weiler

NASCAR Nationwide Series points leader (as of April 1) Carl Edwards and fellow drivers Kevin Harvick and Kyle Busch will lead the field in the upcoming Pepsi 300. The race will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at Nashville Superspeedway in Gladeville, just off SR 840 that runs between I-40 and I-24. The race will be broadcast on ESPN. A strong field that should include top-10 (points) drivers Continued on page 14

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Real Estate Today

More Rea$on$ to be Energy Efficient

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by Karen Roach It is clear that many of us are becoming more and more focused on our environment and the preservation of it for the generations that will follow. There are many things that can and should be done. No matter how small it may seem or how inconsequential, the cumulative effect of everyone doing something can make a monumental difference. One of the basic things that each of us should consider is right there in the most significant investment that we have – our homes. Making our homes more energy efficient is good for our environment and also good for our pocketbooks. We should assume that our energy costs are going to continue to rise, particularly with conversions to newer technology and possible penalties on our current providers. Now is a good time to consider upgrading the energy efficiency of your home. The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 included many credits to give you an incentive to do those upgrades now. The recent Stimulus Bill solidified those credits and increased or extended some of them. In general terms, current homeowners who purchase and install specific products, such

as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors, roofs, and heating and cooling equipment, can receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost, up to $1,500 per year. Some improvements, such as geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters, and solar panels, are not subject to the $1,500 limitation. This is available for improvements made in both 2009 and 2010. You can take the credit both years. For new home construction, the credit is available to the contractor which should then pass through to the homebuyer. You can read more about the program at http://www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm Not all improvements qualify as they must attain a certain level of improved energy efficiency. The requirements are detailed at http://www. energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_ credits If you plan on staying in your home, are shopping for a home, or building a home, you should be aware of the energy efficiency of your residence or prospective residence. You should explore your options to upgrade your energy efficiency for long-term savings while the 30% tax credit is available. It will improve the value of your home. If you have any questions or would like additional information please do not hesitate to contact me at 615.495.9934 or via email at [email protected].

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Small Business

Tips for Keeping Track of Personal Electronics When Traveling It’s no secret that Americans are constantly on the go, using technology to help us multitask and get things done while we are out and about. Smart phones, PDAs and mini laptops are all the rage - until we lose them. We usually lose things in transit: on buses, trains and planes, in cabs and rental cars, shopping malls and coffee shops. If you’ve ever lost an electronic gadget, you know the cost, inconvenience and security risks can become not just a hassle but also a burden. As many as 12,000 laptops are lost in American airports each week, according to a 2008 survey by the Ponemon Institute. Even though more than half of them are left behind at security checkpoints, the survey says a whopping 65 to 70 percent are never returned. Airport lost and found departments are repositories for massive numbers of lost electronic devices, most of which lack any identifying information that would help airport personnel return the items to their owners.

So how do you avoid becoming a “loss statistic,” especially if you travel a lot on business with personal electronic items? Here are a few simple tips: 1) Label your laptop or other electronic devices with your name, address and cell phone number. A majority of laptops lost in airports are left at security checkpoints where they presumably will be found by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or airport staff. If there’s no identifying information on your device, the authorities or even a Good Samaritan will have no way to find you and return your property. Invest in a portable labeling device and put your identifying information on important electronic items. Brother recently launched two portable labelers - the PT-1230PC and PT-2430PC- that easily plug into the USB port of your laptop or any desktop computer and require no software installation to use. These P-touch labelers print up to six lines of text and graphics on high-quality, laminated labels durable enough for travel

as well as indoor and outdoor use. Visit www.brother.com to learn more. 2) Always carry smaller electronics like cell phones and iPods in the same place in your handbag or carry-on. Knowing where to look for them will not only help you access and use them quickly, but also help you realize sooner rather than later if an item really is lost. 3) Charge your electronics before you begin a trip so that you don’t have to charge them in an airport lounge or waiting area. Charging in a public place increases your risk of forgetting an item, or having it taken when you look away for a moment. And even if you remember to take the phone, you still risk forgetting the charger. 4) If you carry your cell phone, mp3 player, electronic planner or other small electronic item in your pocket, always check the area when you get up from a seat. Devices can easily slip out of a pocket

when you’re sitting down. 5) Take extra care -- and time, if needed -- at airport security checkpoints to make sure you’ve retrieved all your important possessions, including laptops and other electronic devices. Don’t feel you have to rush to get out of someone else’s way, especially if rushing will increase your risk of forgetting something. TSA screeners consistently give passengers verbal reminders to check their belongings to be sure they have everything, but you rarely hear any of them urging passengers to hurry up once they’re through the screening point. They understand you may need a few extra moments to collect your belongings. Courtesy of ARAcontent

DENISE FULL

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Exchange Club of Bellevue is hosting an evening with Dr. Jesse Register, Director of MNPS Monday, April 13 at 6pm Harpeth Valley Elementary School Cafeteria Hotdogs and hamburgers will be served Dr. Register will share with us the state of Metro Schools, where we are and where we are headed, the challenges and rewards. For more information on Dr. Register, please visit: http://www.mnps.org/Page49052.aspx Please rsvp to Dr. Sheri Weiner at [email protected] or 673.6100 no later than April 10.

Need assistance with your taxes? AARP will be providing tax preparation on ... Mondays through April 13 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center 8101 Hwy 100, Nashville, Tennessee 37221 615-646-9622 *Please bring any tax forms you have received and Please inform the AARP Tax Counselors on how much you received from the Economic Stimulus Package Call 615-646-9622 to set up an appointment.

Chance to win $5,000! Reverse Draw & Silent Auction April 20th Hosted by Chafin’s Barn Sponsored by Exchange Club of Belleuve Fundraising Event for Child Abuse Prevention Exchange Club of Bellevue once again in partnership with Chafin’s Barn is hosting an evening of fun fundraising to help raise money for the prevention of child abuse. There will be door prizes and of course, the chance to win a grand prize of $5,000 or $2500 for second prize or $1,000 for third prize. Admission is $50 and dinner will be provided along with the chance to win one of many prizes such as spa treatments, evening out at restaurants like the Palm or Sperry’s or even overnight stays at some of the finest area hotels like Opryland. Please contact Sheri Weiner, President of the Exchange Club for raffle tickets or more information: 615-673-6100

High Performers… Extraordinary Women!

Professional Coaching Group Program duration: 6 weeks/6 sessions, 90 mins each session Date/Time: Thursdays at 8am-9:30am weekly First session to be April 23rd, 2009 Location: Avenue Bank Green Hills – Conference Room Cost: $395 Executive Coaches are Christie Vaughn, MBA, ACCC and Sawrie Becker, M.S.E. For more details, visit www.alocgroup.com/womenscoaching or call 615.269.6004

Free Salsa Classes 10:00 pm Cafe Bella - 609 Ninth Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203 Come to free Salsa Classes every Friday at Cafe Bella, Nashville’s hottest Latin night club and restaurant. Also on Fridays, Happy Hour from 4:00pm-8:00pm featuring music from local R&B artist, Higher Ground. Local Latin musicians, Swing Latino, perform a mix a Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Chacha and more following the free salsa class, and a DJ spins the hottest Latin mix in the city until 3:00am. ----------------------------------Tuesdays at the Cottage A fun, ongoing Bible study that helps women understand God’s message for them today. The kick-off of Tuesdays at the Cottage will include a free continental breakfast and free childcare, courtesy of Stay ‘N Play in Bellevue. Thereafter, the drop-in child care center will offer a special $5.00/hour rate for those attending the Bible study and free child care for first-timers. For more information, please contact Lisa Kinakin at 615 456-2653 (www.lisakinakin.com).

April 2-5

Southern Womens Show - Nashville 2009 Nashville Convention Center; Renaissance Nashville Hotel Event details at eventsinamerica.com

April 4

Deaf Day 9:30 am - 4:30 pm 3777 Nolensville Road, Nashville, TN 37211 For the third annual Deaf Day, Nashville Zoo will offer presentations and programs designed to cater specifically to the deaf and deaf /blind community. Sign language interpreters and guides will be at various animal exhibits throughout the Zoo, partnering with Zoo docents to deliver educational presentations and answer guest questions. Cost: $13/Adults $8/Children ages 3-12 $11/Seniors ---------------------------Native Plant Sale 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum 1200 Forrest Park Drive Nashville Tennessee Over 50 different varieties of wildflowers and native plants will be available to buy for one day only! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring some new native beauties to your garden. Sponsored by The Garden Club of Nashville. ----------BodyQuest Challenge 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Adventure Science Center 800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37203 On your mark, get set, go! Strap on your running shoes and head out to the Fifth Annual Body Quest Challenge. Participate in a one-mile BodyQuest Fun Run and come to the center to learn all about the body. Cost: $11/Adults; $9/Children (age 3-12); $9/Senior (age 60+); $9/Military w/Active ID; $9/ College Student w/ID; Children age 2 and under free.

April 6

Dialogues on Immigration 6:30 pm Scarritt-Bennett Center, 1008 Nineteenth Avenue South. Financial assistance is available if needed. Cost: $25/For all 5 evenings; Pre-registration Required. Event details at nowplayingnashville.com!

April 7

Mashville Brigade 9:30 pm Station Inn - 402 Twelfth Avenue South, Nashville, TN The Mashville Brigade is a band featuring Ashby Frank, Darrell Webb, Greg Martin, Jimmy Van Cleve and Aaron McDarris. Each of them are sideman with prominent bluegrass acts and artists in their own right. You’ll see a great show and hear exciting bluegrass and roots music from incredible pickers who are at the top of their game. Cost - $8/ Ticket ---------------------------------Tuesdays for Tots: April Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum 1200 Forrest Park Drive Nashville Tennessee Event details at nowplayingnashville.com!

April 9

Cirque du Soleil: Saltimbanco Sommet Center - 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 Buy Tickets for Cirque du Soleil: Saltimbanco at Sommet Center on 4/9/2009.

April 11

Citywide Easter Egg Hunt 1:00 pm - Richard Siegel Park, 515 Cherry Lane, Murfreesboro. Children of all ages will love this hunt! Activities will include age appropriate egg hunts all afternoon, carnival games and a final visit by the Easter Bunny before he fills the baskets on Sunday. Swap eggs for prizes at our “eggs-change” booth! The event is free and open to all ages. For more information, please call Thomas Laird at 867-4913. Richard Siegel Park is located at 515 Cherry Lane, Murfreesboro,TN 37129.

April 16

HARD ROCK AMBASSADORS OF ROCK BATTLE OF BANDS 9:00 pm The Hard Rock Cafe- Nashville 100 Broadway, Nashville Phone: 615-742-9900: Contact: [email protected] [email protected] 8 Bands compete only 1 left standing. QUALIFYING EVENTS: April 15th & 16th FINAL BATTLE: Thursday, April 23rd Winning band (up to 5 members) will move onto the semi-final judging by a Hard Rock Corporate panel. 5 Finalists will be selected and posted online at hardrock.com. Band who receives most online votes wins! GRAND PRIZE: Winning band wins a trip to perform at Ambassadors of Rock Hard Rock Calling at Hyde Park in London June 27th & 28th. Trip includes airfare, hotel & spending money! ------------Nashville Film Festival

Regal Green Hills Stadium 16

April 18

Music in the Vines: Art Four Sale 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Arrington Vineyards and Winery 6211 Patton Road, Arrington, TN 37014 Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a bottle of our wine and take in a relaxed evening of music. Feel free to listen casually as you catch up with friends and family here at the rolling hillsides of Arrington Vineyards. Tables are available on a first come, first serve basis, but feel free to bring your own blanket or outdoor folding chairs.

April 19

Concert by Seth Glier at Bluebird Cafe - Sunday Writers Night 8pm - Bluebird Cafe - 4104 Hillsboro Road, Nashville. Nashville’s great acoustic Writer’s Night

Sudoku

Answers on page 14

5 Ongoing Event: Bellevue Chamber Monthly Luncheon Meeting with Guest Speaker Every 3rd Thursday of the Month Location: The Meadows 8044 Coley Davis Rd, Nashville, TN 37221 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

Saturday, May 16

32nd Annual Bellevue Community Picnic Bellevue’s Red Caboose Park 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Special Grand Marshal is Joe Elmore, Host of the Emmy Award Winning “Tennessee Crossroads” -------------------------------Nashville March for Babies 12:00 pm Centennial Park , 2525 West End Avenue, Nashville March for Babies, the March of Dimes largest fundraiser, raises money to help all babies be born healthy. Sign up and fundraise, and then come out to celebrate with thousands of Nashville residents who care about the health of our smallest citizens! March for Babies is a family-friendly event - bring the kids out for a short walk followed by live entertainment, face painting, food and drinks and other fun activities. Stroller and pet friendly.

ONGOING EVENTS

EXCITING BEDROOM DECORATING MAKEOVER SEMINAR NOW AVAILABLE! Women’s groups looking for meeting programs are being offered a free program by Bohnne Jones and Deidre Carver, independent franchise owners of INTERIORS by Decorating Den of Nashville. “We call our bedroom makeover seminar, ‘Suite Dreams’, and it’s filled with great ideas on a variety of design styles, and options”, said Jones. ‘INTERIORS’ by Decorating Den has several different meeting programs available on a variety of interesting interior decorating topics. All programs are designed to help organizations have a successful and informational gathering. Call 800-DEC-DENS for more information

Designer Finds raises $2,500 for prevention of Domestic Abuse Designer Finds in Green Hills recently partnered with the YWCA in March to help raise money for the YWCA Weaver Domestic Violence Center. They offered 10% of any sale of any donated handbags or jewelry from March 1-15th. This fundraiser was a winner as it helped raise $2500! We applaud Designer Finds for helping the community raise support and awareness of this fine center. Designer Finds is located at 2210 Crestmoor Rd in Green Hills. You may reach them by calling 615.279.1994 or on the web: www.designerfinds.biz YWCA Weaver Domestic Violence Center can be reached by contacting Abby Sasser at 615.983.5162 CAll 615.469.7334 for more details. ----------------------------------The Civil War and Reconstruction Tennessee State Museum - Ongoing Tickets: Free Admission Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm-5:00pm Tennessee State Museum 505 Deaderick Street Nashville, TN 37243 ----------------------------------The First Tennesseans Tennessee State Museum Ongoing - Prehistoric Indian cultures existed in Tennessee through four evolving periods, beginning about 15,000 years ago, peaking between 800 and 1650 A.D. with the Mississippian people, and ending with the ascendancy of such modern tribes as the Cherokee and Chickasaw. The museum even has a display of bones from a mastodon that roamed Tennessee 10,000 years ago.Tickets: Free Admission Tennessee State Museum 505 Deaderick Street Nashville. -------------------------------Live Lunch at Stillwaters Cafe Stillwaters Cafe 1207 Jefferson Street, Nashville, TN 37207 LIVE LUNCH at Stillwaters features LIVE JAZZ every Tuesday and Thursday from noon until 2 pm for lunch patrons. Featuring a variety of local artists including John Birdsong, Jerry Krahn, Chris Kent and Mel Deal . For more information, call 329-3207.

Mortgage Matters

Good Ole Uncle Sam is giving you $8000.00 for your first home The new and improved 2009 Tax Credit is Uncle Sam’s way to help spur home sales in any town USA. A first time buyer can qualify for this Free Tax credit between January 1 and November 30, 2009. This new break can put $8000.00 free in your pocket to apply to your new digs, because the tax credit reduces your tax bill dollar for dollar. For example, if you would on average get a tax refund $2000.00 when you file your 2008 tax return after purchasing a home your refund would be $10,000.00. Even better: Unlike last year the $7,500.00 tax credit was a loan, but now it’s free Money with no repayment plan. Last year’s tax credit was available to first time home buyers who purchased their home after April 8, until December 31, 2008. It was really an interest free loan from the government. Qualifying home buyers would get their tax credit when they filed their 2007 returns, but they would have to repay the credit back $500.00 each year after for 15 years. In 2009, First Time Home buyers get the $8000.00 free with only one exception; it has to be paid back only if the buyer sells the home within 3 years from purchase date. You could get the $8000.00 Tax Credit even if you have owned a home before. It’s not only a first time home buyer who qualifies for the $8000.00 cash. The law says you just can’t have owned a home in the last 3 years. Some more good news is that you can claim your

tax credit any time before December 31, 2009 on your 2008 tax return. The only bad news is the tax credit does have an income limit of $75,000.00 to $95,000.00 on a single return or $150,000.00 to $170,000.00 on a joint return. How do you get your Free Money? This is how it works; qualifying taxpayers can claim 10 percent of the house price up $8000.00 on their 2008 tax return. Since the tax credit is dollar for dollar you can get your free money with your tax return as usual. If you file your tax return electronically you can also get a rapid refund and that is the fastest way to get your cash. What if you bought a home before the $8000.00 credit? If you have bought your home in 2009 and only got a $7500.00 tax credit you can amend your 2008 return and get $500.00 added to your return. The Uncle Sam will send you an additional $500.00 bucks. What if you have not bought a home yet? If you have not bought your home yet, but plan to before November, 2009 here is what you may want to do. Go ahead and file your 2008 return before your home purchase. Then after you are in your new home, file an amendment to your tax return and get the extra $8000.00 straight into your pocket. Please contact me Josh Rogers at Tennessee Bank and Trust at or email 1-615-481-9367 jrogers@tennbank. com to get pre-qualified for your home purchase before you miss your free $8000.00.

32nd Annual Bellevue Community Picnic Everything is coming together for the 32nd Annual Bellevue Community Picnic scheduled for Saturday, May 16th, in Red Caboose Park from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The Bellevue Chamber of Commerce is very excited to have as our Grand Marshall this year, Joe Elmore, Show Host & Producer. As host of Tennessee Crossroads, Joe Elmore has taken viewers to meet interesting people and explore fascinating out-of-the-way places in his home state. He has been involved with the Emmy-award winning series since its beginning in 1987. Joe also wears another hat, that of producer and co-host of Horsepower TV on Spike TV. We are also pleased to announce one of the

many acts to be performing on center stage: Roux du Bayou Cajun Band. Playing authentic Cajun/Zydeco/Swamp music native to southern Louisiana, their high-energy style gets them repeated engagements at a variety of quality venues across the Southeast and Midwest. Band leader Paul Gregoire also plays accordion as a sub on the Grand Ole Opry with Cajun Opry star Jimmy C. Newman. As always, we promise to have great food, artisans, children’s crafts, rides, fireworks, and wonderful entertainment! Stay tuned for more updates on the special music, attractions, rides and programs planned for the Picnic or log on to www.bellevuepicnic. com for more details!

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Interior Design

Help! I’m Shrinkin’

Let’s Go Green!

Deciphering the “Doctor Code”

By Deidre Carver, Interior Designer Interior Designer, Allied ASID Interiors by Decorating Den Everywhere you look someone is talking about “going green”. Almost every shelter magazine I pick up is focused on green design and those “green” shopping bags are everywhere. But what exactly does it mean to “go green”? It is easier then you may think. Most people have a preconceived idea that living green is difficult and beyond their abilities (or desires). You don’t have to give up luxury to help save the planet, just make a few simple changes. You may actually be green and not even know it. Recycling is a great way to start. No, I don’t mean your garbage, I mean your furniture. Repurposing pieces that you already have rather than tossing them in a landfill is recycling. If you are thinking about getting rid of an old piece of furniture you are tired of, first look and see if it can be used somewhere else in your home. An old book shelf could find a new home in your garage to hold flower pots and gardening tools. An old chair in the den maybe perfect in your guest room. If it doesn’t match perfectly, reupholstering it is always an option. Don’t be afraid to paint an old dresser or cut the legs off of a shelf to make the piece perfect for its new home. And if you cannot find a place for it in your home, see if someone you know could use it. Don’t forget there is always Goodwill. Painting a room used to mean polluting your home with hazardous vapors and fumes. Today most paint manufactures offer lowVOC and zero-VOC paints and finishes. VOC (volatile organic compounds) can continue emitting in your home for years after you paint. By using a low-VOC paint you can help clean up the air in your home and help reduce landfill, groundwater

and ozone depleting contaminates. An added bonus to using low-VOC paint is that you can move back into the room the same day you paint. Five years ago, most people didn’t know what “being green” meant. Now we have hybrid cars and homes that produce enough energy on their own that they could run a small town. You too can now be green with these simple ideas and know that you are helping to save our environment one repurposed piece of furniture at a time. If you need help with repurposing and redecorating your home, give Interiors by Decorating Den a call. We can guide you in the right direction to taking your home green.

For your own personal decorator, contact INTERIORS by Decorating Den at 800-DEC-DENS or www.decoratingden.com Making the world more beautiful, one room at a time.

By Dr. Steve Olivas At the risk of being thrown out of the fraternity, I figured a crash course on the different kinds of mental health “Doctors” would be in order. I am often asked about the distinctions between these professionals because unless you are already in ‘the biz,’ it can be very confusing. Doctors come in three garden varieties, with a few stragglers thrown in for good measure. We’ll hit the high points, and I’ll cover other professionals in a later column. The top of the food chain is occupied by Psychiatrists, who hold a medical degree (M.D.). These are physicians who prescribe medication, and tend not to dabble in therapy. Typically, a good Psychiatrist will recommend their patients work with an outside therapist to give their problems a one-two punch: medication plus personal therapy (the best course of treatment for many mental health issues). Next are the Psychologists. Psychologists hold either a PsyD or a PhD, and the difference between the two is not as subtle as you would think. PsyD programs are geared toward training their students to become therapists; i.e., the focus of their training tends to be therapeutic technique, theory, and practice. And while PsyDs have not been as numerous as PhDs in the past, they have been closing the gap. The past 10-15 years has seen a dramatic increase in the number of licensed PsyDs. PhD programs were developed not only to train students to become therapists, but also scientists. The main thrust of these programs fluctuates from school to school, as some lean more heavily toward “scientist,” and others more toward “therapist.” As a result, there tends to be a split in the relative strengths of graduates. Even among PhD Psychologists however, there are sub-categories. Confused yet? Your Psychologist may hold a degree in Clinical Psychology or Counseling Psychology. And while these two degrees were developed with different goals in

mind, the reality is that they are pretty similar nowadays. By the way, if a professional uses the term “Psychologist,” it means they have earned a doctorate and are licensed as such by their state. The word Psychologist is a protected, legal term. Sorta like, you can’t legally call yourself a “Dentist” unless designated as such by the state licensing board. Even though it may be fun from time to time. I will give a brief footnote here: “School Psychologists” are able to use the term Psychologist, but are not necessarily doctors. They typically hold a Master’s Degree, and are experts in testing and evaluation of children in school settings. The third “Doctor” category belongs to a group whose members DO hold a doctoral degree in Psychology, but are either in the process of going through licensure, or are having difficulty passing the requirements (like a lawyer having trouble passing the Bar Exam).Believe it or not, the procedure for credentialing Psychologists is actually pretty rigorous. Finally, the stragglers. There is a subset of “Doctors” who hold a doctorate… but in a subject other than Psychology. In other words, they may have a Doctorate in Philosophy or Theology or Counselor Education, but because of the protected term, cannot call themselves a Psychologist. So, these folks will use a term such as Counselor, Therapist, Psychotherapist, Pastoral Counselor, or Family Therapist (there are a few others) to describe themselves professionally. They may be fine therapists, and be licensed as a mental health practitioner by the state, but their license is at the Master’s Degree level instead of Doctoral. Whew… not easy stuff. I hope this helps answer some questions about who we are. Let me know if you have others.

You may email Steve for questions or comments at [email protected]

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Hickman Happenings If you think there’s nothin’ happenin’ in Hickman County…. listen up!! By Colleen Ray The first day of spring has come and gone, and it’s looking good out there! My husband even had to touch up the “front 40” with the mower! That’ll be his only chance to do that this year since when mowing season comes, I love spending hours on that mower just talking with God and enjoying His handiwork. Such a blessing! The Great American Clean Up is underway and in the first 3 hours more than 15,000 pounds of debris and recycling was brought to the dump! This is a great opportunity for some non-profits to win money for their organizations, and I applaud them for participating, but really, 15,000 pounds in the first 3 hours???? Seems to me we could all do a better job throughout the year picking up after ourselves!

Dr. Cher of Chestnut Hill Ranch Bed & Breakfast contacted me to tell me about a luncheon they are having on April 4th. Sponsored by the Chamber, this will be a roast honoring Neil Jobe, a local drug and alcohol volunteer and all proceeds will benefit the Charlie Garner Scholarship Fund. For more information contact Nancy at 729-5774. She also told me that the threatened species chicks she recently purchased are doing well. All 26 should be fully feathered by August. Easter egg hunts were indoors in Connecticut, but you had to keep count because if you didn’t find them all, they sure got to smelling bad after a while! Not to worry at the annual Easter egg hunt at the Ag Fairgrounds on April 11th at 1:00 pm. This event, sponsored by the Civitans draws a huge crowd and it’s better to stand behind the starting line than in front for the start!. Bring your baskets and enjoy! The Judy Randall Tourism workshops will be continuing in Linden on April 16th at 8:00 am. The folks from Hickman County who have been attending are now

Travel Vaccines Ɣ9LWDPLQ%-12 injections for energy Simple blood tests Ɣ'UXJVFUHHQV Ɣ7E skin tests Pneumonia vaccine Ɣ Tetanus/Diphtheria boosters Zostavax (Shingles) ƔGardasil (HPV) ƔYellow Fever Fall/Winter Flu shots Ɣ)OX0LVWƔ3UHVHUYDWLYH)UHH)OX Walk in! No appointment needed except for Yellow Fever. FREE Employee Wellness Clinics for groups of 10 or more!

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Nashville, TN. 37221

615-469-7413

Speaking of talent, Clay Harris’ recent production of “I See You” was a hit and I can tell you first hand that he is a gifted man. Next is “Market” April 16-18. This is a dinner theatre and your ticket gets you a great meal from The Farmhouse plus the show! Clay is also working on the Hickman Heritage Music Festival scheduled for May 16. To participate in this, or for theatre tickets, please call 729-5130. Get ready for the big event at Riverfront Park on April 25-26. The Skirmish of Centerville on the Duck River, sponsored by the Sons of Confederate Veterans Col. Jack Moore Camp #559 and the Ladies Auxiliary of Confederate Belles is well on its way to being a fun-filled day for all. On Saturday come see the Victorian Rose Parade of Fashions Show at noon with

special music from 1861-1865. Officer Call is 1:30, Inspection 2:30 and the Skirmish at 3:00. On Sunday enjoy the Authentic Church Service at 10:00 am, with Officer Call at 12:30, Inspection at 1:15 and the Skirmish at 2:00. All of these events are FREE to the public…just bring your lawn chairs. For more information call 931-670-5541. Call me at (931) 729-7068 or email me at [email protected] to share your tidbits and tales. God Bless you and I’ll be talking to ya’ll!

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going to be implementing some of these new ideas shortly. Some tours are being planned for The Grinder Switch Hour on Saturdays, as well as to Tarkington’s Store to enjoy the food and music. This is a great way for us to showcase our talent and culture to those outside our area. Bravo!

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EuroBronz Tanning Run On Jane Studio Is “A Shade Great Gift Idea Above the Rest” Continued from page 1

process works. Each client receives an in-depth consultation to map out the safest and most effective tanning routine for their individual needs. “Clients can choose their level of tanning based on a variety of different beds that have different ranges of UVA and UVB wave lengths,” Hemphill explains. “We offer high pressure facials — 100 percent UVA for faces — as well as beds that talk to you, beds with built-in speakers and MP3 player connections, beds with aroma therapy and beds with aqua mist. “The industry has really gotten high-tech in recent years.” EuroBronz offers different levels of amenities within a price range of $18.88 to $68 per month. Top of the line beds are equipped with four high-pressure facials, 56 160-watt canopy and bench lamps, 13 spaghetti lamps over the shoulders and include aroma therapy, aqua mist and a built-in sound system. Sessions last only 10 minutes. The studio offers spacious rooms in a sleek urban atmosphere, and each is climate-controlled so clients stay cool and comfortable during their sessions. “We have lots of clients who come in over their lunch hour,” Hemphill points out, “because sessions range from just 10 to

15 minutes.” Appointments may be made, but walk-ins are welcome. He says there is little to no wait time at the new Nashville West location. EuroBronz also offers the latest technology in ultraviolet spray tanning. “This offers a tan with a nice even skin tone and includes moisturizers for a simultaneous skin conditioning,” Hemphill explains. The studio also offers skin care lotions to traditional tanners, and even has spa treatments available in the My Myst booth. “Clients can enjoy exfoliating treatments, skin firming treatments and skin revitalizing treatments in just minutes, and for much

less that what it would normally cost in a spa,” he notes. The benefits of maintaining a tan are both tangible and intangible, according to the studio owner. “Studies show that ultraviolet light causes an increase in the production of ‘feel good’ chemicals in the brain called dopamine and serotonin. It also increases the production of bone-building vitamin D. And we’ve had dermatologists refer psoriasis patients for the benefits of ultraviolet light with increased UVB.” Hemphill further points out that when people feel good about themselves, other, less tangible benefits may be experienced. “If someone believes they look better with a tan, they will have increased self-confidence, they’ll enjoy improved relationships, perform better in interviews and just generally portray a sense of well-being.” EuroBronz does not require membership fees or contracts, and has packages available for purchase by the minute or unlimited monthly visits. “Even in a down economy, people want to feel good about themselves,” notes Hemphill. “The tanning industry was actually started in a recession.” The three owners of EuroBronz — Hemphill, Stephanie Lannom and Sharon Clark — are long-term players and are excited about opening the new Nashville West studio. “Expenses are less, there’s a greater pool of talented employees to draw from, and the convenient location next to I-40 can’t be beat,” Lannom says. EuroBronz is open seven days a week. Hours are from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit them on the web at www.eurobronztan.com or call 356-5022.

This week I’d like to write about a super cool device (a great gift idea for those of us with parents in their 60’s and older) that my husband picked up. Now I am not going to start writing articles on cool new products and my take on them, but this was such a neat thing that I had to share! For about fifty bucks, my husband bought a Film and Slide converter. Yes…slides! If you don’t know what a slide is, I would imagine that you were born after 1975 and I now feed a bit aged! My parents had one of those carousel slide holders with a projector that would present their timeless photos and memories onto a large pull down screen for all of us to see. If they took the time to drag all of the apparatus out of the attic, you can bet that all of us kids were going to sit and watch those memories with a smile and a lot of patience! Well what happened to those slides and memories? They are back in the attic where most likely they will remain in a box and collect

dust…until now! The Digital Film and Slide Converter (available online and at certain electronic stores) will take your 35 mm negatives (remember those?) or these precious slides and convert them into digital files where you can email, save to a CD or store on your C drive all of those memories from years past. You can even rework them with a photo finishing software program or edit as well! This product is easy to use if you are not techno challenged and well worth the spend. This is probably one of the best gifts to get for your parents if you can’t think of anything other than the same old tie or cooking gadget for a gift! Want to make the gift even better? Convert the pictures for them! That is certainly a memory that they will remember forever! If you have any questions for Jane, please send your question to [email protected]!

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Pets 101

BOOST Your Life

Keep Your Cat Green and Happy Spring is on the horizon and we are all thinking about eco-friendly ways to refresh our homes, especially as Earth Day approaches. If you are one of the more than 38 million catowning households in the U.S. you may want to rethink how you care for Fluffy, both to be more environmentally friendly and to protect your cat’s health. “We love our pets, and just as we work to make our lives environmentally sensible, we can adopt ‘greener’ pet care habits to better care for our pets’ health and environment,” says Jill Cordes, host of America’s first broadband pet channel www.Petstyle.com. In addition to everyday eco-sensible habits you might be adopting for yourself, like buying organic food and shopping with reusable bags, Cordes suggests following some simple pet care practices this spring, just in time for Earth Day on April 22: * Cats love to clean themselves, and it’s a good idea to keep your pet’s environment clean and gentle. Replace traditional pet care and cleaning products that may contain harsh chemicals with gentle, all-natural products. * Keep your kitty’s tummy happy as well. Added hormones or pesticides aren’t good for you to eat, so why do you think they’d be good for your cat? When shopping, look for pet food that is natural and organic. * Eliminate odors in your spring-fresh house and choose eco-sensible kitty litter, like Arm & Hammer Essentials Clumping Cat Litter. It’s made with natural biodegradable corn fibers, which are a renewable resource and sensible for the environment. Plus, it’s formulated with Arm & Hammer Baking Soda, which naturally prevents litter box odors. Visit www.armandhammeressentials. com/litter.aspx to learn more.

* Avoid creating a home for fungus and other nasty organisms. Make sure your cat has fresh water and food daily to eliminate potential disease, insect or other pest infestations. Also, filtered tap water is better for both you and your cat because you aren’t throwing a plastic bottle away or potentially giving your pet contaminents from the bottle. * Recycle household items by turning them into play toys. Take the rope out of your drawstring pants, and you can have kitty jumping, leaping and pouncing for hours. Roll up a pair of gloves into a tight ball, and she’ll be trying to dig it out from under the couch every time you turn your back. If you decide to replace carpet somewhere in your house, keep a couple of scraps and attach them to boards for her to roll on, scratch and climb. Just remember, snuggle time on your lap is probably her favorite -- and most eco-friendly -- time spent during the day. Courtesy of ARAcontent

D.J. Key A senior at Hickman County High School, D.J. Key earned a 3.75 GPA and has been awarded a football scholarship to UT Chattanooga for the fall. He served as team captain for both HCHS football where he was named All-State, and for HCHS basketball where he scored 1000 points this year.

By Jon Sexton

of wheat bread.

Most people, even those who are picky eaters, like bread. And that’s good, because bread, and grains in general, make up a big part of the Food Guide Pyramid. But what kind of bread should you choose? There are so many choices, including white bread, wheat bread, honey wheat bread, etc.

A high fiber diet is recommended for most people.

First, you should look at the nutritional values of different breads when you decide which bread to buy for your family. Although many things are similar for different types of bread, such as:

• • • • • •

Calories - usually about 40-70 calories per slice Total Fat - 0.5-1g Cholesterol - 0mg Sodium - 90-130mg Protein - 1.5-3g Iron - 4-8%

There can be big differences in the amount of fiber and calcium that different breads have. And whole wheat breads usually have more vitamin B6, vitamin E, magnesium, folic acid, copper, zinc, and manganese. However, many white breads are fortified with these vitamins. In general, 100% whole wheat/whole grain breads have more fiber than white bread or other breads made with wheat flour, although some many white breads have almost as much fiber as many kinds

Remember that ‘wheat’ breads that do not say that they are ‘whole wheat’ are a mixture of enriched white flour and whole wheat flour, and so will likely have less fiber than whole wheat breads. ‘Whole wheat’ will be listed as the first ingredient if the bread is made from 100% whole wheat. But white breads often have more calcium, especially if they are made with milk, than wheat breads. However, many different kinds of wheat bread are now fortified with calcium too. Bread as an extra source of calcium is good if your child doesn’t drink much milk or eat other dairy products. So what kind of bread should you choose? The Winner, whole-wheat bread! It offers a large nutritional advantage over white bread. 100% whole wheat bread fortified with calcium would likely be the most healthy choice. Reading the nutrition label can help you find healthy bread. Just be careful when comparing labels that you check the serving size. Some breads list 2 slices as the serving size, while others list just 1. Since the amount of calcium and fiber is listed per serving size, 2g of fiber may be for 2 slices or just 1.

For more information or questions about this article visit www.boostfitclub.com or call 615.662.8989.

Hickman County’s Student Athletes of the Week Hickman County High School

Wheat vs White

East Hickman County High School

Erica Winfrey Erica is a senior at East Hickman County High School and will serve as this year’s Salutatorian having earned a GPA of 3.96. For two years she has played volleyball, softball and basketball and has served as basketball team captain for both years. Erica was also named to both the All-District Tournament and All-Academic basketball teams.

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Consumer Tips

Boomer’s

Small Front Porch Expansion Ideas

Five Tips for Retirement Planning in a Challenging Economy

by Dave and Mary Morris Where did all the front porches go? Although front porches are making a comeback many people ask what options they might have to expand their small porch. First, determine your intended goal. Is it to create more curb appeal, use it as a place from which to watch the world go by, or to create a private nook? The first option, of course, is to just addon to the existing porch. Depending on the design of your porch this may entail using a professional contractor especially if you have to extend the roof line or add supporting columns. Or consider adding a “patio porch” addition. It’s relatively inexpensive depending on the design; it looks great, and can be landscaped for different purposes. It can be a great do-it-yourself (DIY) or a relatively inexpensive contractor project. Pavers, flat stones, and bricks can be used to create just the right look.

You can landscape it for privacy with shrubbery to create either a private nook for reading or a place for a small table and chairs for socializing. Include a wide walkway leading to the patio area and landscape it appropriately. Don’t have room to either side of your existing porch? Create a larger landing area at the bottom of the steps to maximize your porch and create curb appeal. Place a bench on either side of the extended landing and landscape the walkway leading to your expanded porch. Small porches can be more functional and appealing if you use a little imagination. It’s a great DIY project for many, and will add both space and curb appeal to your home. Dave and Mary Morris are creators of http://www.Front-Porch-Ideas-and-More. com, your portal for front porch ideas and designs. Please visit their website to learn more about how to design, decorate, furnish, and enjoy your porch.

“What do I do now?” This is the question that is being asked by everyone from baby boomers on the cusp of retirement to 20-somethings who have just started their retirement savings. Today’s volatile market has left everyone in the dark. “Challenging economic times call for a return to basic principles, like a commitment to personal savings, seeking professional advice to help investors assess their personal situations, and employing a holistic approach to retirement planning,” advises Christine Marcks, president of Prudential Retirement. A thoughtful approach to preparing for retirement is important for all individuals, no matter how far off retirement might be. Prudential has developed “The Four Pillars of U.S. Retirement” as a framework to discuss how Americans can prepare for and live in retirement. For most Americans, no single pillar will be sufficient to meet retirement income needs. Now more than ever, to save and plan effectively for a secure retirement, individuals should consider how Social Security, workplace-provided programs, personal savings, and retirement choices will affect their ability to live comfortably in the future. Here are five back-to-basics tips to help Americans get their retirement plans back on track in this challenging market: 1. Know the options and outcomes for drawing your Social Security benefits. If you are nearing retirement, be sure to understand your options and how you can maximize your Social Security benefits. Be clear about the tax implications of early or delayed benefits. 2. Continue to leverage and maximize your workplace-provided programs. If you aren’t already, enroll in your workplace-sponsored defined contribution plan --401(k), 403(b), etc. -if one is available. You should contribute at least enough to get the full benefit of a sponsor match. This is not the time to “leave money on the table.” Also consider in-plan investment options, such as target-date funds, automatic asset-allocation programs, and even guarantee-based vehicles that can protect savings and income and offer a guaranteed retirement paycheck. 3. Make the most of your personal

savings. Despite the uncertain economy, remain calm. Follow the basic principle of investment diversification, which continues to be an important element of any financial plan. Work with a financial advisor to appropriately allocate assets based on age, risk tolerance and years to retirement. 4. Assess -- and maybe reassess -- your retirement choices. The current downturn may require you to re-examine key retirement choices, such as when to retire or where to live. A tax-efficient approach to taking retirement income can play a big part in how long your retirement assets will last. Understand the financial implications of your desired lifestyle and consider which choices make sense for your personal situation. 5. Seek advice from a financial professional. If you don’t already have a financial advisor, a trusted friend or peer can be a good source for referrals. Schedule a time to have a conversation with a professional who can provide you with detailed advice about planning for your future retirement. “Planning for retirement now by taking the back-to-basics approach is very important,” says Marcks. “In a down economy we must all take a realistic position on how different areas of our retirement are affected in order to have a bright financial future.” Take the first step today and visit www. prudential.com. Prudential Retirement is a Prudential Financial business. Retirement products and services are provided by Prudential Retirement Insurance and Annuity Company, Hartford, Conn., or its affiliates. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Medicare and TRICARE “TRICARE is a regionally managed health care program for active duty and retired members of the uniformed services, their families, and survivors. TRICARE brings together the health care resources of the uniformed services and civilian health care professionals to provide better access and high quality health care service.” www.ssa.gov For those of you who qualify, TRICARE is an excellent health benefit for our military men and women. When you become eligible for Medicare, you do not have to forfeit your TRICARE nor do you have to decline Medicare. The two federal programs will coordinate benefits to provide you with full health care coverage. When you turn 65 years old or you have been permanently disabled on Social Security Disability benefits for 24 months, you most likely will become eligible for Medicare. If you previously had TRICARE as your health care coverage, your Medicare will become “primary” and TRICARE secondary. This means that Medicare will cover your health care services first and TRICARE will cover after Medicare pays. Medicare co-payments and deductibles will be covered by TRICARE. The TRICARE beneficiary who also has Medicare should not be required to pay any medical bills. Although Medicare now offers prescription plans through private companies, it is not necessary nor is it advisable for TRICARE

recipients to enroll into one of these plans. TRICARE continues to offer drug coverage which is currently better than any Medicare prescription plan. Medicare Advantage plans are also available for those on TRICARE and Medicare. Medicare Advantage, formerly known as Medicare + Choice, are alternative plans to the Original Medicare offered through private insurance companies. Plan types include HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), and PFFS (Private Fee For Service). Some of these plans may offer extra benefits like fitness center memberships, annual check ups, limited dental or vision coverage. However, these plans require that its enrollees use medical providers from specific networks and HMOs require referrals for specialty care. Consider these factors carefully before switching from Original Medicare. You still have full coverage with Original Medicare and TRICARE. Those who have served our country deserve the best health care possible. Understanding your benefit options and utilizing is important to all of us who are indebted to your service. Mary Beth Best President & Program Manager Voice, Inc. - P.O. Box 306 Pleasant View, TN 37146 www.myvoiceinc.com - 615-772-4288

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Bright Spots

All ‘Bout Staging Welcome to our Ongoing Series: Staging-The Art and Science of preparing a House for Sale

Staging the Heart of the Home

“Turn a Look-See... into a Must-Have” By Carol R Bass Staging a home involves analyzing every place a potential buyer will explore. Where will they explore? The answer is, everywhere. There are no spaces off limits when people are looking a house to purchase. Today, let us focus on “the heart of the home.” The Kitchen is where most of our lives unfold. We eat there, share there, do homework there, and so much more. Here are a few items you need to address when staging the kitchen. 1. It can’t look used and abused. We all use our kitchens everyday several times a day. However when we are selling our house it has to look like no one uses the kitchen. Great excuse to no cook huh? So put away the blenders, dutch ovens, mixers, large and small appliances need to be put away. The coffee maker is the only exception. 2. Improved and updated. Remember selling your home is part competition and part seduction. If the competition has granite and you don’t ,and the price is the same, who will win? Remove dated wallpaper. Take down all those trivets or Jello molds hanging on the soffit, less is more. Remove ruffled curtains or top treatments with cows, ducks, fruit, and anything that dates the space. 3. Pantries and Cabinets-Do the cabinets appear dated? Paint or replace hardware. Once you make sure the exterior looks good, it is time to analyze the interior. The cabinets must appear organized and spacious. There should be nothing on the floor of the pantry. Store mops and brooms elsewhere. Think model home. 4. Clean, Clean, Clean. There is that word again. But kitchens and bathrooms are where the lack of cleaning really shows up. Clean the oven, stove top, and yes even the inside of the refrigerator. They will open it up and say, “Wonder if they will consider

selling the refrigerator?” 5. Appeal to all the Senses. Add charm and appeal to a kitchen too? Remember, this room is the heart of the home, and you want it to feel like a great gathering space. • Use a small, decorative lamp under the counter to add some soft lighting. • Add herbs in the kitchen window for a gourmet feel • Lay fresh tea towels off to the side of the sink • Set the breakfast counter with pretty dishes • Add beautiful fresh fruit or flowers • Add the smell of home, bake cookies right before a showing. Carol Bass is a Master Professional Trainer with The Society of Decorating Professionals (www.TheSDP.com ) and a co-founder of One Day Decorating. She teaches classes across the United States to both the Professional and DIY Decorator. Watch locally for Carol’s exciting “Addicted to Decorating” DIY days. A fun day filled with decorating ideas, tips, and tricks. Visit Carol’s sites at: www.onedaydecorating.com or www.addictedtodecorating.com Carol Bass is a Master P ro f e s s i o n a l Tr a i n e r w i t h The Society of Decorating Professionals (www.TheSDP. com ) and the cofounder of One Day Decorating. Carol teaches classes across the United States to both the Professional and DIY Decorator. Whether you want to learn how to create beautiful spaces or turn your passion for decorating into a successful business, Carol’s classes are for you. For more information, call Carol at 888-800-7507 or visit www. onedaydecorating2.com.

A Place to Find Informational and Inspiration For Your Life

“Hope Springs Eternal” By Sawrie Becker, M.S.E. Personal Life Coach SBB Life Coaching It is officially spring (at least according to the calendar) and with spring little signs of hope within the world of nature seem to be everywhere. The buttercups have bloomed along with the beautiful pear trees and the ground is beginning to be covered once again with the bright green blades of grass. These are sure signs that no matter what is happening in our own personal lives or in the current economic picture, the cycles of nature will go on – no matter what! As we so often turn to nature for comfort and answers in our lives, spring offers a wonderful opportunity for us to focus on and find signs of hope that can shore us up and keep us going during uncertain or difficult times. Emily Dickenson once wrote: ‘”Hope” is the thing with feathers – that perches in the soul- and sings the tune without the words – and never stops – at all.” Did you know that according to Greek mythology, when Pandora opened Pandora’s Box she let out all the evils except one: hope. Apparently, the Greeks considered hope to be as dangerous as all the world’s evils. But without hope to accompany all their troubles, humanity was filled with despair. It was a great relief when Pandora revisited her box and let out hope as well It is hard to imagine our world without hope—the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best. For when one does lose hope, anxiety and depression can result and indeed sometimes our own will to live gives way. Whether we hope passively and wish for something to happen or we are active with our hope and plan a course of action— hope is eternal, everlasting and live giving. What are you hoping for these days—a new job, a new love or perhaps just better

days. Whatever you hope for, do not despair, know that it is on the way to you. All you have to do is look outside the window – signs of hope are everywhere. Today, allow yourself the luxury of taking a walk (even it if is just to the mailbox). On your way be intentional about identifying all of the signs of hope that nature provides. Play a game with yourself or engage a friend or your child to keep count of how many signs of hope you can identify. You may be surprised - at the very least you will feel better and perhaps a little more hopeful. Celebrate spring and the eternal hope it provides. Be inspired by the words of Monroe Forester who reminds us that -“Hope is always available to us. When we feel defeated, we need only take a deep breath and say, “Yes,” and hope will reappear. Hope does spring eternal! If you would like to learn more about what life coaching can bring to your life, contact Sawrie at 352-0978, email at [email protected] or visit www. sbblifecoaching.net.

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Councilman’s Corner By Charlie Tygard L a s t w e e k , Ta x Assessor George Rooker gave a presentation to the Council’s Budget & Finance Committee (Mr. Rooker will also be speaking to the Bellevue Exchange Club this week on the same topic). To many, the news was startling! Property values in Davidson County have risen on the average of 15% in the last four years. This news came as a shock to many considering the “down” real estate market we are all hearing about and perhaps personally experiencing. A little background on this subject is appropriate before getting into the facts about the 22nd and 35th districts – primarily the Bellevue area. The State of Tennessee mandates reappraisals every 6 years, although Metro has settled into a four year cycle. Reappraisals are done to restore equity in property values, as not all areas in town experience the same appreciation rates. Without this process, property owners in a depressed area would pay more than their fair share of the tax burden. So over the last 18 months, dozens of appraisers have visited neighborhoods and analyzed sales and market data to establish a market price as of 1-1-09. The figure that will soon be supplied to property owners is weighed more heavily to the most recent sales, which hopefully reflect the true property value today. A second major point for homeowners to realize is that these figures reflect the increase (or decrease) in value from four years ago. The years 2005-06-07 reflect real estate boom years, while the last several years reflect more of a decline. The key is whether the decline is greater than the boom or vice versa. For example, the median residential sales price in 2005 was $154,000 – in April, 2006 it was $172,900 – in June, 2007 it was $196,000 – in Feb, 2009 (last month) it was $160,000 (figures supplied by the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors). Your opinion of your home price is therefore based on your point of reference. The good news for Bellevue residents (if you are taking the viewpoint of paying property taxes) is that our property values have grown less than the citywide average (bad if you are taking the viewpoint of your net wealth). As

I mentioned earlier, real estate values increased an average of about 15% citywide – in the 22nd District (the “heart” of Bellevue such as River Plantation, Cross Timbers, etc) the growth is 10.4% and in the 35th District (the “outlying areas of Bellevue, such as South Harpeth, Pasquo, Linton, the Poplar Creek Road area, River Road, etc) the growth is 9.6%. The areas of highest gain, not surprisingly, are downtown (reflecting the new condo’s), East Nashville (reflecting the revitalization of the historic areas) and the Vanderbilt areas. These areas show 30% + increases in value. So what does this all mean on what each property owner will pay in property taxes? The answer to that will not be known for a while until the certified tax rate is adopted. Since the city cannot use a reappraisal as a means to increase revenues, the property tax rate will drop from the current levels of $4.04 General Services rate (most of Bellevue) and $4.69 Urban Services rate. In 2005, the certified rate drop from $4.58 USD to $4.02. However, after the Metro Council approved Mayor Purcell’s tax increase, the final rate rose to its’ current level of $4.69. This posed what I have often referred to as the “double whammy” – a reappraisal process that creates additional property tax for a homeowner living in an area whose property increased more than the citywide average, along with an additional tax burden created by the Mayor/Council increasing the property tax above the certified rate. That will be a topic for a future column. My final point of emphasis is that any citizen who feels that the value placed upon their home is incorrect based on factual data, such as sales of comparable homes, has the right to appeal the value. This can be done online or by appointment at the Assessor’s office but must be filed before the June 19th deadline. As always, please feel free to contact me at P. O. Box 210945, Nashville 37221 or 256-7146 (work) or 243-3295 (cell) if I can be of service. As always, please feel free to contact me at P. O. Box 210945, Nashville 37221 or 256-7146 (work) or 243-3295 (cell) if I can be of service.

Green 101

Green Proof Your Home for Baby - Part 1 In about five weeks I’m due to give birth to our third child. So as you can imagine, I’ve been doing quite a bit of nesting lately. We’ve been busy turning my former office into an eco-friendly and non-toxic nursery. I’ve also been doing a lot of research to ensure that we have all of the newborn essentials ready and have looked into what “green” choices are available. With our boys Andrew (4 1/2) and Jonah (2 1/2) we used disposable diapers, wipes and plastic bottles (after I had finished breast feeding). In these days of heightened environmental awareness, we are coming at it from a different vantage point and want to make sure we are making our children’s world as safe as we can. Here are just some of the greener choices we are adopting this time: Cloth Diapers/Wipes instead of Disposables. I’ve read a lot of articles debating the environmental impact of disposables vs. cloth, and it seems that many studies are still divided. The general statistic is that each baby will use approx 6,000 diapers before toilet training, and that disposable diapers take 200-500 years to decompose (we think). On the other side, washing cloth diapers takes water, energy, and cleaning chemicals - oh and of course time. A lot of what is happening in the environmental movement today isn’t NEW! We are looking back to what our grandparents and great-grandparents did out of necessity and finding that it worked. Not only were those practices better for the environment, they were also much more cost efficient. Cloth diapers aren’t what they used to be - no more diaper pins! Today’s cloth diapers are designed with Velcro or snap closures for convenience, and are made from eco-friendly materials such as hemp, bamboo, or organic cotton. I’ve also looked into biodegradable diapers. Most are made with plantbased plastics/bioplastics, and are nonpetroleum based and chlorine free. The packaging also states that these diapers are compostable. The problem is that these, along with most biodegradable bioplastic products, will only biodegrade under the “right” conditions. If they go

into a landfill they will NOT compost and they will NOT compost in your backyard composter. They will only biodegrade in an industrial composting environment which Nashville does not have. Interesting Stats from Planet Green (http://planetgreen.discovery.com/gogreen/green-baby): 6000: The number of diapers the average baby uses before potty training. - 200 to 500: Years it takes petroleumbased disposable diapers to decompose. - 49 million: The number of disposable diapers used per day in the United States; Australia uses 2.2 million, Japan uses 6.7 million, and the U.K. uses 9 million. - 53 percent: A home-washed cloth diaper has only 53 percent of the ecological footprint of disposables, and a diaper laundry service has a mere 37 percent of that footprint. So for us the choice is easy - We are planning to use a cloth diaper service. Not only will it save us time from having to wash the diapers, we also won’t have to worry about running out of them and will save on multiple trips to the store to buy more. If you’re looking to save money, buying and washing your own cloth diapers is the way to go. Here are some links to good cloth diaper resources: - Cotton Babies: http://www.cottonbabies.com - Imse Vimse: www.imsevimse.us And, here are some links to local diaper services and stores: - Smile Mommy - http://www. smilemommy.com/index.php - The Changing Times: http://www.a-andd-enterprises.com/TheChangingTimes/ - The Green Wagon: http://www.greenwagonnashville.com Next issue, in Part 2 of the series, I will discuss breastfeeding and plastic vs glass bottles. Tara Biller is founder and owner of http://www.greenproofyourhome. com, a residential consulting service designed to outline the simple steps of going green. A graduate of Boston University, Tara previously spent 14 years specializing in public relations for high-tech companies.. Please direct questions or comments to tbiller@ greenproofyourhome.com

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Pepsi 300 race field hopes Edwards flops rather than flips Continued from page 1

Brendan Gaughan, David Ragan, Jason Leffler and Brian Vickers will chase Edwards and try to keep him from one of his patented back flips after winning a race. On the weekend when NASCAR does not race on Easter Sunday, officials at Nashville Superspeedway all pulling out all the stops to attract fans of all ages. Those who purchased a season pass have a special perk in that it will be “all access.” Officials of the Dover Motorsports Inc.-owned track want fans to enjoy a pre-race opportunity to access areas of the infield that have been restricted in the past, said track Vice President and General Manager Cliff Hawks.” The “all access” will let fans be allowed in the garage and pit road before the race; have access to the NASCAR driver’s meeting; walk along the front stretch with cars staged, in qualifying order, giving them a photo opportunity; the prerace driver introductions will include drivers being introduced while they walk down through the grandstands and onto the track; and drivers will get into their cars on the front stretch and await the “gentlemen, start your engines” command. An Easer egg hunt, sponsored by Middle Tennessee Electric, will start at 11 a.m. on the plaza in front of the ticket/will call window. Three age groups (5-under, 6-9 and 10-12) will participate. Sean Dozier, Nashville Superspeedway’s media director, said gold and silver eggs will be in each age group, and the sponsor’s prizes always are “top quality.” Registration to participate begins at 10 a.m. Following the race and winner’s various presentations, country music performers Emerson Drive will provide a concert. Here’s the day’s schedule of events: 9 a.m. — Parking lots and gates open; 10 a.m. — NASCAR Nationwide Series qualifying and registration for Easter egg hunt; 11 a.m. — Easter egg hunt sponsored by Middle Tennessee Electric; 2 p.m. — Prerace and driver introductions; 3 p.m. — NASCAR Nationwide Series Pepsi 300; TBA — Postrace concert by Emerson Drive.

Sounds season arrives The sound made when a 90-plus mph

fastball and a wooden bat mean that pro baseball season has arrived at 534 Chestnut St., home of the Nashville Sounds of the Pacific Coast League. The Sounds begin their 142-game season at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 9, when New Orleans arrives for a fourgame series. Oklahoma City visits April 13-16. In December, the parent Milwaukee Brewers named Don Money, 61, to coach the Triple-A Sounds, who are coming together as a unit during spring training. He’s the 22nd manager in the 32-year history of the Sounds. Among the Brewers’ top prospects (according to Baseball America) in 2009 are shortstop A l c i d e s Escobar, third baseman Mat Gamel and catcher/third baseman Brett Lawrie. Milwaukee’s top pitching prospect is righthander Jeremy Jeffress.

Odds ’n ends • Hats off to Coach Barry Trotz and his Nashville Predators for their great stretch run to try to make the elite eight Western Conference teams in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Preds have withstood a rash of late-season injuries, and won or earned points for key victories or overtime losses. Goalie Pekka Rinne has been given solid support by his teammates. • How about the crowd that showed up April 1 at LP Field for the U.S. vs. Trinidad & Tobago FIFA World Cup qualifying match? Years ago, you never would’ve thought soccer would have caught on like it has.

Puzzle Solution

Take your best Shot!

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Reaching an All Time High Across All Ages By Kaye Ivanoff, R.N. SHOTS, etc. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that almost 19 million new cases of sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s) occur each year, and almost half of those are among 15 to 24 year-olds. The other half of these new infections occur in those persons ages 25 to 80. Add this number of new cases to the ones already infected and you will see that a huge percentage of Americans either have or have had some form of sexually transmitted disease. These numbers are staggering, considering the long-term effects these STD’s have on the general health, reproductive ability and possibly even the lifespan of those infected. One of the fastest growing groups for STD’s is in the 50-80 age range. This rapid growth in infection has been attributed to the increase in unprotected sex because fear of pregnancy is not at the forefront of baby-boomers or senior American’s minds. The advent of Viagra and other sexual performance enhancers has also given many older Americans greater drive and desire for experimentation with multiple partners, thus increasing the number of infections in men and women. Sexually transmitted diseases do not infect just those people who are promiscuous or who participate in alternative sexual habits. A person of any age can be infected with a lifechanging STD even on their first sexual encounter that may or may not include sexual intercourse. Men who have sex with men are at an even increased risk because some STD’s that occur more frequently in this population increase the risk of acquiring HIV. There are multiple infections that are considered to be sexually transmitted and are caused either by a viral infection or a bacterial infection. Infections or diseases that are classified as STD’s include bacterial vaginosis, Chlamydia, Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), gonorrhea, genital herpes, HPV/genital warts, syphilis, trichomoniasis and HIV. Some of these diseases have definite symptoms while others are more insidious and may show no physical symptoms at

all until irreversible damage is done. Although public health efforts were once effective in nearly eliminating syphilis, gonorrhea and Chlamydia from being public health threats, these diseases began re-emerging in 2000 to 2001 and have increased steadily and significantly over the past few years. Men who engage in homosexual practices, having sex with other men, account for a significant percentage of cases of syphilis and Chlamydia. Those who are bisexual contribute to widespread infection of both men and women. All STD’s are preventable with various methods and precautions practiced by everyone who engages in sexual activity. The use of condoms is helpful but not 100% effective in preventing STD’s and should not be used for this purpose. The surest way to avoid transmission of STD’s is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected. Some STD’s can be effectively prevented through pre-exposure vaccination. Several vaccines are currently under development or are undergoing clinical trials for certain STDs, including those for HIV/AIDS, genital herpes and Hepatitis C. However, the only vaccines currently available to prevent sexually transmitted diseases are for the prevention of Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Human Papilloma Virus infection which may cause genital warts or cervical cancer in girls and women and penile cancer in boys and men. Read more detailed information about all of these sexually transmitted diseases, signs and symptoms, treatments and your responsibilities if you are infected at http://www.cdc.gov/std. Vaccine specific information can be accessed at www. SHOTSetc.com on the Vaccines and Services page. Kaye Ivanoff, RN is President and CEO of SHOTS, etc., a Nashville-based provider of vaccines and other wellness services that keep children, adolescents and adults healthy for work or school requirements, world travel and everyday life! Walk-in service is available at 7648 Hwy 70 So. suite 15 at I40 exit 196. Call 615.469.7413 or visit www.SHOTSetc. com for details of services and pricing.

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Mommy Talk Thoughts from Moms....regarding Motherhood & Work

Celebrating Spring! It’s Easy in a Recession! Susan Douglas, MD & Anne Alexander Vincent, Licensed Minister of Pastoral Counseling

When my children were very small and I stayed home with them, my friends and sisters always said that I should have been a kindergarten teacher because I never missed a holiday or season. There was always some kind of table decoration or bulletin board or homemade wreath inviting them through the door. In my “Mommy Fantasy Dream House”, I would have a separate closet for Valentines, Christmas, Easter, Halloween, well – you get the idea. Not because I’m that on top of it all (after all, I am a Mom and I’m not perfect) but because I love the change, the color, and the creativity. This spring of 2009 may very well be different for many of you due to the economic climate. I’ve met with many families over the past couple of weeks who have had drastically different spring breaks this year. This has been the year of the “stay-cation” for many moms who may have had to piece together child care at extra expense or are stressed with everyone home and kids bored by the end of the week. Celebrating this spring can be a doorway to cultivating your awareness and the developing senses of your children. Just walking around the yard or down the street together with bikes, the dogs, or strollers noticing the bright yellow of the forsythia, the pink of the cherry trees, the snowy white of the Bradford pears can be a delightful experience. If you are accustomed to purchasing new spring clothes for the family and cannot do so this year, look into consignment sales, clothing swaps with other moms, and low cost updates. A package of fresh white tank tops or tshirts and a couple of colorful cotton scarves can freshen up your casual outfits. Kids love a bright new umbrella or pair of plastic rainboots in their favorite color – perhaps to model on those family walks. Celebrating spring can also mean a first grill-out or potluck for family and friends. Last spring when whittling my budget due to some medical expenses, I had a well attended potluck lunch (yes, with my spring wreath on the door). Several people have asked if I’ll do it again this year, and interestingly enough, they remember the coral, lime, and turquoise paper napkins and plates as much as the ribs and cheesecake. Color is such a mood booster for people! A good little idea: buy a roll of white butcher paper and let your kids make spring placemats for the table. It can be a great way to keep them busy while you fix the meal! Another one: Single buds or blooms

From the School Board Anne Alexander Vincent is in private practice, treats individuals, couples, families & can be reached at (615) 354-1395 Susan Douglas, MD practices psychiatry & treats adults on an outpatient basis at Middle TN Psychiatric Clinic 2011 Ashwood Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212 (615) 383-4694

from the yard or flowers cut from a $ 2.99 spray can float in a glass dish or adorn several small vases grouped together. Allowing your child to plant his or her own pot of herb seeds or to make and fill a birdfeeder is a simple way to recycle old materials and experience a return to a simpler, more organic spring. It is often said that life is not what happens to us but how we respond to those events. Making sure that we set a tone of celebration and reverence for new life in nature is part of being a Mom that we can control. And in this recession, healthy control where we can have it is key. By the way, while writing this article, my now college-age son who decided to save his money and not go to Florida on Spring Break has discovered a new bird nest in our spring wreath. Sometimes the small discoveries and pleasures mean the most! Just we marvel at the life force pushing out tender green shoots on the trees, we must treasure and encourage our own growth. Challenge yourself as a perfectly imperfect Mom to color outside the lines, splash in rain puddles, make a new friend, create a new dish with those leftovers. There is only one YOU in this magnificent universe so celebrate this fresh new season and blossom where you are and where you can!

A Favorite Quote And then the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” Anais Nin

Why consider charters? Forget everything you thought you knew about charter schools. The old laws, and the old debates simply don’t apply anymore. It’s time for charter schools 2.0. The traditional arguments for charter schools involve competition alone, but zero-sum competition creates as many losers as winners. Charter schools 2.0 is about specialization and division of labor. As a community we share a common responsibility to provide an excellent education for every child. Traditional schools will always continue to serve the students they serve well, but charter schools are public schools, too, and they offer flexibility, niche experience, and specialization that will enable them to help where traditional schools fall short.

per year. These were students who could not read despite never having received a failing grade in reading throughout elementary school. In the no excuses schools, these students are identified and taught not turned away or passed along. In the no excuses charter schools, this kind of story is the rule, not the exception. Unsuccessful charter schools can be reconstituted or closed easily now that internal MNPS operating procedures are being revised based on the study and recommendations of the Charter School Working Group.

Opening enrollment options reduces student mobility, increases family participation, and enriches diversity. MNPS has moved to open enrollment throughout its system in order to If we embrace the collaborative effort behind improve academic achievement, but state law charters 2.0, our established schools will also prevents MNPS from including its three highly benefit from adopting those successful and successful charter schools in that effort. innovative practices at charter schools so Enrollment restrictions and caps need to that all students are better served. Hostile, go. They limit local options in the name divisive, or merely indifferent relationships of protecting local monopolies. Local will not stop charters from emerging; they will Education Administrations need clear and only guarantee that all schools are of lower effective policies for recruiting, assessing, quality than they could be working effectively and approving the schools they need to serve together. the students they are failing, and MNPS is Nationwide there are more students in charter schools than in private schools, and many large-scale operators demonstrate consistent, replicable, high quality results for their students with the same admission requirements that their traditional public school counterparts employ. These “no excuses” schools deliver “whatever it takes” to make sure that even the least-prepared, most challenged students not only exceed adequate progress every year but graduate from high school and college.

revising its policies right now to meet this goal, but we need the state’s help to make it really work.

It is time to end outdated arguments that get in the way of teaching and learning that works for our children. We continue to fail too many of our students. If there is a charter school that could be serving their needs now, but old laws and old attitudes make that less likely, then we need to change Successful charter schools will help MNPS those now for the to meet our academic achievement goals for sake of our kids. our children and the future of Nashville. I We can’t keep recently visited a charter high school where making them wait. students who entered 9th grade functionally illiterate were advancing over two grade levels Alan Coverstone is our newly elected school board member. You can email him at [email protected] for questions.