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Friday, Feb. 10, 2012
Charity and social services

Caring helpers: Tennessee Cares for Kids steps in to supply items for children in foster care (02/10/12)
A Maury County non-profit ministry is expanding to Bedford County this year. Tennessee Cares for Kids got its start a year ago in Columbia, and provides immediate clothing, personal and school supply needs of children entering foster care. Then known as Maury County Cares for Kids, the group had long-range plans in place to grow the ministry into other counties over a period of time...
Generous donation (02/10/12)
Southern Energy of Shelbyville has made a generous corporate contribution of $12,500 to the United Way of Bedford County this week. From left are Gary King and Amy Mitchell of Southern Energy, United Way Executive Director Dawn Holley and Tonya Davis. Holley said the donation was "very much appreciated" and said the money would remain in the local community. (T-G Photo by Brian Mosely)
Stylin' ...with a little help (02/05/12)
An agent for Shelter Insurance, Maleah Qualls is -- by nature of occupation -- a busy woman. How she keeps it all together in the springtime is a mystery, though. In the past two springs, Qualls has selflessly devoted a large chunk of her already demanding schedule to help young ladies enjoy one of the shining moments of their teenage years -- prom...
Webb puts best Feet forward to help (01/27/12)
The Webb School's varsity girls basketball team did two very important things Tuesday. First, the Lady Feet protected their home court and picked up a region win over St. Cecilia. More importantly, they raised proceeds to benefit Mt. Juliet Christian School coach Casey Colter, who is battling cancer...
Bottle cap drive is a cruel hoax (01/24/12)
A lady at church had told Angie and Peyton White about the collection drive: For every 1,000 plastic bottle caps collected from soda bottles, a little girl in Marshall County could receive a free chemotherapy treatment, offered by her doctor. Peyton told his classmates at Shelbyville Central High School about it, and the collection began to grow. Even teacher Martha Nixon got into the spirit, offering students extra credit for bringing in the caps...
Healthy doses of caring for women (01/18/12)
When Terri Cobb moved thousands of miles away from her former California home to begin a new role in her life, she didn't waste time wondering how she could get involved. The wife of Fair Haven Baptist Church's new pastor Mike Cobb, Terri began planning the church's inaugural Community Health Fair with the help of other local women, including Donna Thomas, Keri Smith and Amy Molder...
Riding to new heights (01/15/12)
Great Strides will begin its 18th year of therapeutic horseback riding in Bedford County in April of this year. The Times-Gazette spoke about the organization with Kay Dennis, founder and current president. How did Great Strides get its start? Over the years I was involved with special education students in Bedford County and realized there was an opportunity for us to use the walking horses in this community to provide this service to many children. ...
Anonymous donor reaches out to homeless (01/04/12)
Leaders of CROSS Shelter Project say they're in serious need and delighted with an anonymous donation passed along to them through County Mayor Eugene Ray. "We are in desperate straits in the shelter," said Carl Bailey, the group's founder and board chair...
Tales of loss lead annual top story list (01/01/12)
Two stories that touched the hearts of local readers top this year's list of the top 10 local stories as determined by a poll of the Times-Gazette staff. The top story of the year was the plight of the three people collectively known as The Shelbyville Missing: Shelley Mook, Bobby Smelcer and Antonio Taylor. That story was followed by the story of a young sixth grader whose illness brought the community together and whose death broke its heart...
30 years of caring: SCHS canned food drive continues (12/25/11)
When local educator Bill Pietkiewicz took a group of Shelbyvile Central High School students to a student council workshop in 1981, all he really hoped for was the students returning home feeling inspired. The motivational speech they heard that day, given by well-known speaker Mark Scharenbroich, planted a seed in the students' minds to start a canned food drive. That first year, 1,000 cans were collected...
Family hopes for helpers (12/21/11)
While many of us are getting those final gifts wrapped for Christmas, 17-year-old Hunter Overcast, a senior at Central High, is steeling himself for another round of fighting cancer. He's receiving a transplant this week, after which he'll be out of school for several weeks while a patient at Vanderbilt Medical Center, and his family needs all the help they can get on several fronts...
Fresh Start: A new beginning (12/18/11)
It's early on a Monday morning and the men are already out working, clearing brush by the roadway, cutting down trees and stacking green firewood in a neat rick. Jabez, a mongrel of no recognizable breed, races by -- clearly joyful. There's a nip in the air, and he has 368 acres in which to run. Like the men clearing trees, he's been rescued from the local shelter and given a new chance at life...
Sparkling holiday love (12/16/11)
Friends and families of the residents at Christian Care Center of Bedford County celebrated Christmas early this year with the help of the Bedford County Medical Association Alliance (BCMAA). BCMAA's annual Lights of Love program decorates a Christmas tree in the lobby of the nursing center with ornaments and lights donated by people in the community...
Toys For Tots holds distribution (12/16/11)
Hundreds of parents lined up Thursday afternoon at the old Kroger building to pick up gifts during the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toy for Tots drive. This photo only shows part of the line, which stretched nearly all the way to Madison Street. (T-G Photo by Brian Mosely)
'Santa's helpers' deliver kids a brighter Christmas (12/15/11)
The old Kroger building on Madison Street has stood empty for years, but there has been a lot of activity brewing inside this week -- all of it related to making sure that every child has a Merry Christmas. The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots program has been busy getting ready for today when parents will come to pick up the goodies for their young ones...
Couple puts beliefs into practice (12/14/11)
In his role as youth leader, David Brown reminds teenagers that God's greatest commandments may be distilled simply: Love Him. Love others. "The best way to show God how much we love Him is to love His people. We're commanded to take care of one another."...
Temporary homes offer children safety, security (12/13/11)
A generation that remembers still speaks of a time when a hungry man could knock at the door of a farmhouse and ask to be fed. A glass of milk, a biscuit from that morning's breakfast. It was the Great Depression. Times were tough, but families took care of their own, taking in cousins or nieces and nephews temporarily when their parents couldn't provide for them...
State official visits CDC (12/07/11)
The Child Development Center was host to a happy reunion of families and friends recently, with more than 50 on hand to greet James M. Henry, new state commissioner of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Since his appointment to the newly-created post last year, he's been making his way around the state to meet those responsible for centers under his oversight. ...
Lights of Love shine at Christian Care Center (12/06/11)
Take a break from holiday shopping, and join the residents of Christian Care Center for their annual open house and Lights for Love this Thursday at 5:30 p.m. Lights for Love is an annual tradition, sponsored this year by the Bedford County Medical Association Alliance. BCMAA is a non-profit volunteer organization of physician spouses dedicated to promoting good health to all Tennesseans and supporting the family of medicine. It's led locally by Barbara Blanton...
Central students prove dreams 'can' come true (12/06/11)
Students at Shelbyville Central High School proved on Friday that dreams 'can' come true -- displaying 28,166 canned food items in a Disney-themed Great Canned Food Drive. Drawings and posters of Disney characters were hung throughout the school during November to remind students to bring in canned and non-perishable items to help those in need during the holiday season...
Truly thankful: Cancer patient's family gets good news, and assistance (12/04/11)
Accompanied by a warm smile and tears of joy, the relief on her face was one that only a worried caregiver could wear after hearing some very good news from her husband's doctor. It could not have come soon enough. An early Christmas present? "Yes," said Terri Adams, quietly. "Yes it is."...
Price pitches in: Baseball player supports Boys & Girls Club (12/01/11)
Murfreesboro native and Tampa Bay Rays pitcher David Price signs autographs for children at the Bedford County Boys & Girls Club Tuesday before presenting a check for $12,500 from his Project One Four foundation to help buy a bus for the club in Shelbyville. Boys & Girls Club members, from left, are Azaria Porter, Will Taite and brothers Nathan, Anthony and Gary Dodson. (T-G Photo by Kent Flanagan)
Big hearts, big effort...and bigger needs (11/16/11)
It's that time of year again -- when we're thankful for what we have and mindful of what others don't have. And this year, there are plenty of those who "don't." City Outreach Ministries is one agency that aims to help locals during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays...
Central students feed the hungry (11/16/11)
The Shelbyville Central High School is currently involved in a great canned food drive in the month of November. The school has been doing the great canned food drive for the past many years dating back to at least 1985. Shelbyville Central has had many themes, such as superheroes, Christmas, and Wizard of Oz. The theme of this year's canned food drive is Disney....
Toys for Tots drive begins (11/15/11)
Needy families wishing to receive toys from the U.S. Marine Corps-affiliated Toys For Tots program can call beginning Wednesday to be added to the list. The telephone number is 619-7996, and it will be answered from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. starting Wednesday and continuing through Dec. 12...
Bedford Manor residents pick up pieces (11/13/11)
Occupants who were forced by fire from an apartment building at Bedford Manor Apartments last week will begin picking up pieces of their lives this week. "We can't go back into the apartments until Monday or Tuesday," Kaci Eden said. Eden described the moments when the fire was discovered in her ground-floor unit at the Barksdale Lane complex last Monday...
Art for awareness: Harris students step up to fight breast cancer (11/04/11)
Eagle Power transformed into the Power of Pink last week at Harris Middle School. The Harris Middle School Art Club sold buttons to raise awareness for breast cancer issues during lunch period and raised more than $500. Some of the buttons carried student designs, while others were designed by art teacher Rebecca Soper...
'Jail' for good (11/03/11)
Nearly 200 local leaders ended up in jail Wednesday. But it was all for a good cause. "The police never came and got me, so I had to turn myself in," said Colleen Embry, one of the jailbirds charged with being a caring, good-natured and influential person...
Church is local HQ for gift drive (11/03/11)
A Shelbyville church will serve as a drop-off location for a nationwide effort to bring gifts to hurting kids around the world. New Beginnings Baptist Church, 2027 Madison St., will be participating in Operation Christmas Child, which is described as the world's largest Christmas project of its kind, from Nov. 14-21...
Child's play for a serious cause (10/30/11)
There was something for everyone at United Way of Bedford County's annual Child Safety Fun Fair, held Saturday at H.V. Griffin Park. The free event offered fun and educational activities for the kids, but also offered the chance for parents to have their children fingerprinted by trained law enforcement officers, a fly-in by Vanderbilt LifeFlight, and displays of fire trucks and other emergency equipment. Fingerprinting can be invaluable in the event of a child's disappearance...
Snips, clips for Locks of Love (10/30/11)
A gymnasium full of elementary students chanted "Cut it! Cut it!" Thursday afternoon, encouraging Gracie Herrod as she snipped a 10-inch section of hair from the long blond locks of Southside School vice-principal Layne Talbott. "This is the shortest her hair has been since she was a little girl," noted Myrtle Draper, Talbott's mother, who was on hand to watch the event...
Cancer survivors invited to appear on new calendar (10/30/11)
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Bedford County committee is in the process of developing a survivor calendar as a fundraiser for the next Relay, which will be held June 1, 2012 at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center. Local residents who are cancer survivors are being asked to participate by donating non-returnable photos of themselves to be featured in the calendar for their particular birthday month...
Thankful to be alive (10/30/11)
Paul Cathey remembers the moments before death -- and if not finality, he knew his life was about to change. In between jobs as a truck driver for a few days before the Labor Day weekend, he was helping his brother clear hay on a farm just off Whiteside Hill Road, when he stopped the tractor on the hill and turned off the ignition...
Child Safety Fun Fair set for Saturday (10/27/11)
United Way of Bedford County will hold its annual Child Safety Fun Fair Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at H.V. Griffin Park. The free event offers fun and educational activities for the kids, but also offers the chance for parents to have their children fingerprinted by a trained law enforcement officer...
Runners beat chill for Spooktacular (10/25/11)
Nearly 150 runners and walkers turned out for the annual Spooktacular 5k and 10k races on a frigid Saturday morning. Despite the cold temps, runners heated up the course and posted blistering times. The races, which were sponsored by the United Way of Bedford County, sought to raise funds for 20 different benefit partner programs. In addition to the races, participants also competed in a costume contest, with prizes awarded to those judged as the three best....
Dressing for Service (10/18/11)
The words on one of the stained glass windows inside the beautiful church sanctuary read, "I am the good shepherd." It's a message Joyce Bell and her fellow members of First Christian Church have been studying a lot lately, and it speaks clearly to what she and some of her friends are trying to accomplish in their new mission...
A 'Souper' good cause: Event helps Next Step (10/16/11)
Symbolizing the emotional, spiritual and mental nourishment that we all need to succeed at life, anyone who attended the Empty Bowls Luncheon Thursday filled up with much more than a bowl of potato soup. The second annual luncheon took place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church and proceeds went to the Next Step Home, a transitional home for women who want a second chance at life...
Spaghetti at the ranch (10/13/11)
Arrowhead Ranch is in the process of establishing its own set of traditions as it grows. This Saturday, Arrowhead's second annual spaghetti dinner and live auction will be held at the ranch on Cortner Mill Road in Normandy. The 200-acre ranch serves young men who have gone through hardships in life or who are in need of a safe place to live for a variety of reasons...
Angel Food loss hits families (10/11/11)
John Holland, who was a coordinator for the local Angel Food Ministries distribution site, said the closing of the ministry last month affected about 87 or 88 families who had been buying low-cost food from the nonprofit. "Some of them keep calling me," said Holland...
Students donate more than 1,200 shoes (10/11/11)
During homecoming week the Shelbyville Central High School student council coordinated a successful Soles4Souls shoe drive, collecting 1,258 pairs of new shoes. Non-profit organization Soles4Souls was born from the sofa of founder Wayne Elsey while he watched the devastation of the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia. The image of "a single shoe, stranded on a decimated beach," sparked the seed of the idea...
Striking images make viewers aware of domestic violence (10/09/11)
A visual display designed to draw attention to Domestic Violence Awareness Month caused traffic problems at the intersection of Depot Street and the Highway 82 Bypass earlier this week. "People were slowing down and trying to see," said Barbara Simmons, the county's advocate and shelter coordinator for Haven of Hope...
Round two: Local woman prepares for 60-mile walk, again (10/09/11)
When people take a stroll for cancer awareness, it's usually for a 5K run - a manageable distance for most restricted to a few hours out of a single day. But next month, Bedford County teacher Kelli Dodson and Murfreesboro resident Cindy Cliche will be taking a much longer journey over a period of three days...
Excitement at full speed for Spooktacular race (10/05/11)
Early registration ends Friday for the annual Spooktacular Run-Walk to benefit United Way of Bedford County, which this year is expanding to include a 10-kilometer race in addition to the 5-kilometer race offered in the past. The race will be Oct. 22...
Tough guys wear pink (10/04/11)
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and the team at Bedford County Fire Department have stepped up to do their part. "The community has been good to the fire department," said Chief Mark Thomas, "We thought this would be a good way to give back."...
Relay for Life will last longer (09/27/11)
The next American Cancer Society Relay For Life, scheduled for June 1, 2012 at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center, will have a change in schedule, moving from a 12-hour to an 18-hour format. Local relay committee chair Samantha Chamblee made the announcement Saturday during an open house at H.V. Griffin Park which served as both a wrapup and awards ceremony for the 2011 event and a kickoff for the 2012 event...
Breast cancer section to promote awareness (09/24/11)
Coming Oct. 7, the Times-Gazette will again publish a special section honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The section, printed on pink newsprint, will profile Bedford Countians affected by the disease. Readers are encouraged to submit stories of inspiration and survival, their own or of friends and loved ones, to the newspaper before Sept. 30...
Day of Caring...and appreciation (09/23/11)
United Way of Bedford County kicked off its fall fund-raising campaign with a "Day of Caring" on Thursday, in which employees of various United Way-participating companies or organizations volunteered at United Way-funded agencies, followed by the annual kickoff and appreciation luncheon, including the presentation of awards for last year's campaign...
Special time for fun (09/20/11)
The Boys & Girls Club of Bedford County held its Day for Kids activities last weekend to give school-age children and their parents time to visit the new Shelbyville club and enjoy themselves. The activities included different activities Thursday through Saturday such as face painting, cornhole, basketball, karaoke and treats...
Finding the real Power (09/18/11)
About a year ago, Jennifer Jarrell was going through some difficult times in her personal life -- and her marriage was falling apart. "You sense something is wrong, but then when you know it for sure it rocks your world," said Jennifer, a local real estate agent...
New smile, new life (09/13/11)
A little more than two years ago Kacie Collier's life changed when a local orthodontist promised her a new smile. Good thing, because Kacie has a lot to smile about. Kacie received a free set of braces from Dr. Tracy Pack after being nominated for his "20 for 20 Reason to Smile" program, a gift worth more than $5,000. Last week, Kacie, once called "pumpkin head" by kids making fun of her for her crooked teeth, showed off her new pearly whites...
Horseback in the moonlight... a perfect ride (09/07/11)
Is there anything better than a moonlight ride, listening to the steady clop of hooves and jingle-jangle of bits and bridles, all accompanied by the night song of crickets, cicadas and owls, and washed soft silver by the light of a full moon? How about a moonlight ride that not only gives you all of that, but also gives you the satisfaction of helping others? The Bedford County Cancer Foundation is holding its second annual Moonlight Trail Ride on Garrett Winnette's property at 161 West Rd. ...
Monsters in Training: Get ready for Spooktacular Run (09/04/11)
Have you always wanted to complete a race but didn't know how to train for it or where to begin? There are several additions to this fall's United Way Spooktacular Run, including pre-race training sessions that starts Sept. 12 to get you in your best shape in the weeks leading up to the race. Organizers have also expanded race day to accomodate those who'd like to run a 10K...
Big plans ahead for homeless shelter (08/28/11)
Shelbyville's organization for the homeless has reorganized. The CROSS Project -- Community Religious Outreach Social Services -- has grown from the temporary shelter which first opened in December 2008 and now plans a new residential facility, growth of its food distribution ministry, and a new services division...
Fun for a good cause (08/23/11)
Cy Webb, the 2-year-old son of Link and Rhea Ellen Webb, enjoyed the Bulls and Barrels event Saturday night. Will Shaw, who underwent open heart surgery last week and celebrates his first birthday Friday, benefited from the event held at Clearview Farms arena. Look for more photos in Sunday's Times-Gazette.
Handy rides in style with customized truck (08/21/11)
When Nashville's 4Wheel Parts was looking for a young man with a truck in need of a makeover, they made contact with Judy King, director of Camp Phoenix. King immediately thought of Justin Hardy, who had been attending the camp since he was age 9. From there, the conspiracy to keep the makeover a secret began...
Justin Handy recovers from burns, now helps prevent fires (08/21/11)
A parent's nightmare came true for Barbara Newsom on an October afternoon nine years ago. Her son Justin Handy, then 8 years old and a third grader, got off the school bus and went to play with the prize he had nabbed from the countertop of a local restaurant the night before. His intent was to start a fire. With gasoline...
Help for Will: Bull riders have a heart for boy with multiple surgeries in future (08/17/11)
Next week Will Shaw celebrates his first birthday. Just last week, he was undergoing open heart surgery in a Nashville hospital. The son of Mandy and Haven Shaw of Bell Buckle was born with complex congenital heart defects. From his fourth day of life through last week, he has undergone six surgeries to repair heart defects...
Hope Lodge offers more than just lodging to cancer patients (08/11/11)
NASHVILLE -- "I think this is our best-kept secret," said Harriett Stewart. The five-story beige building sits just north of Baptist Hospital, near the intersection of Charlotte Avenue and 20th Avenue. It is called Hope Lodge. For cancer patients living 40 miles or more away from Nashville, it is a godsend, a free place to stay while going through cancer treatments. Last year, over 2,000 individuals used the facility, for a total of 23,000 nights of lodging...
Making Strides steps into 10th anniversary (08/10/11)
NASHVILLE -- Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, an annual non-competitive five-mile walk to raise money for the American Cancer Society, will celebrate its 10th anniversary with this year's event, planned for Saturday, Oct. 15, starting at LP Field in downtown Nashville...
State grant helps Habitat build homes (08/07/11)
Bedford Builds Habitat for Humanity is the recipient of a "Coming Back Home" grant funded by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency and Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee. The grant was established to meet the housing needs of the very low income, elderly and special needs citizens of Tennessee. In this program, current Habitat home owners participate in the process of building their neighbors' homes...
Donation honors McDonald's memory (08/03/11)
The late Scott Hayes McDonald is remembered by many as a giving man -- one who believed in supporting his community and making a better place. McDonald, president of FirstBank's Shelbyville and Fayetteville operations and a former Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce executive, died in 2008 at age 63, but that generous legacy continues. ...
County youth leaders attend abstinence training session (08/02/11)
Among those getting ready for a new school year are the leaders of Choices that Challenge, a popular abstinence curriculum offered in middle and high schools across Bedford County. Scott Phelps, the author of the curriculum and founder of the Abstinence and Marriage Partnership, was vacationing in Nashville this week and offered to visit Shelbyville to conduct a training session...
Children feted at Summer Feeding Program finale (07/31/11)
The Summer Feeding Program held each summer by Johnson Residential Homes held a back-to-school party Friday for its participants, marking the last day for the program this year. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, furnishes a nutritious lunch for kids during the summer, when some who are out of school may not have access to it...
SHA to add six additional housing units (07/24/11)
Two grants totalling $562,328 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have been awarded to the Shelbyville Housing Authority to be used to build apartments for the elderly. SHA executive director Herschel Thrasher stated Thursday that the money is to be used to construct the six elderly-only apartments at the corner of South Jefferson and Dunnaway streets, next to the East Side apartment complex...
Completing the cycle (07/24/11)
This week six young men from the Paul Anderson Youth Home rode through Shelbyville as part of their quest to complete a 1,500 mile bicycling tour. The ride commemorates one made 50 years ago by Olympic gold medalist, world champion weightlifter and Guinness Book of World Records holder Paul Anderson, who biked from Vidalia, Ga. ...
"Stuff the Bus" school supply drive continues (07/17/11)
The "Stuff the School Bus" campaign, in which donated school supplies are distributed to needy students in Bedford County, will continue through July. Donation boxes are available at retail stores throughout Shelbyville. An on-site collection will be held at Atmos Energy, 321 Lane Parkway, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday...
Affordable loan program helps owners keep homes (07/14/11)
Bedford is one of the 29 counties in Tennessee that's been hardest hit by the recession, but fortunately, forgivable loans are available to those who are struggling to pay their mortgage. According to data compiled by RealtyTrac, one in every 1,358 housing units in Bedford County received a foreclosure filing in May 2011, with the northern part of the county particularly hardest hit. A total of 150 homes are in foreclosure, with an average foreclosure sales price of $69,755...
Time to 'Stuff the Bus' (07/06/11)
It may seem hard to believe, but children in Bedford County will return to school next month. Many local stores are already stocking their school supply shelves. July also means the kick-off of an important local initiative. Bedford County United Way is launching it's fifth "Stuff the Bus" campaign to aid school-aged children in having all the supplies they need to fully participate in classes this fall...
Small donations, big help (06/26/11)
In a time when many feel the effects of a constricted economy, non-profit organizations must be creative in generating funding for their operating budgets. Known for the recognizable baby bottles which donors having been filling with spare change for almost 10 years, and which provide about 4 percent of their budget, First Choice Pregnancy Counseling continues to launch new initiatives to garner financial support...
Arrowhead Ranch thrives, grows (06/24/11)
About a year ago, there were only a few boys living at the Arrowhead Ranch at 239 Cortner Mill Road near Normandy -- a good start for the home for boys, but not good enough for executive director Jeff Sweeney. Six months ago, there were seven boys, all between the ages of 10 and 17...
Summer feeding program keeps children healthy (06/23/11)
In 2009, nearly half of all children in Bedford County qualified for free or reduced-price school lunches. But what happens to those children when school is not in session? This is the fifth summer for Johnson Residential Homes in Shelbyville to host a summer feeding program for local youth. The actual food is paid for with funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but transportation is being provided with the assistance of local churches and agencies...
Steak and chicken dinner held (06/10/11)
Tennessee Titans radio announcer Mike Keith was the keynote speaker for Thursday night's Steak & Chicken Dinner to benefit the newly-formed Boys & Girls Club of Bedford County. Adults were served chicken, while children who are members of the club received steak. Club member Promise McWhirter served as an enthusiastic emcee for the event....
What's on your plate? Is it healthy? (06/10/11)
Earlier this month Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack joined with First Lady Michelle Obama and Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin to introduce the USDA's new food icon -- MyPlate -- a simple reminder to make healthy food choices. Local nutritionists and dieticians applaud this move to replace the familiar Food Pyramid...
State funds boost anti-binge drinking effort (06/07/11)
The Bedford County Anti-Drug Coalition has been awarded a $50,000 grant by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services. The grant was made in response to the anti-drug coaltion's submission of a grant proposal "to reduce binge drinking among 14-25 year olds," according to a letter confirming the grant to Luci Taylor, Bedford County project coordinator...
Cancer survivors walk for life (06/05/11)
The local chapter of the American Cancer Society held its Relay For Life event Friday night until shortly after sunrise Saturday at Bedford County Agricultural Center. The event traditionally begins with a "survivors' lap", above, around the center's track.
Funding cuts force layoffs of CDC workers (06/05/11)
"We serve the whole family, not just the child," says Teresa Winnette, manager of the Bedford County Child Development Center. The CDC provides comprehensive, early intervention services to meet the needs of developmentally challenged children ages birth to three years. On average, they serve 72 children each year...
Funding cuts force layoffs of CDC workers (06/05/11)
"We serve the whole family, not just the child," says Teresa Winnette, manager of the Bedford County Child Development Center. The CDC provides comprehensive, early intervention services to meet the needs of developmentally challenged children ages birth to three years. On average, they serve 72 children each year...
Child Development Center is a lifeline for mom, special child (06/05/11)
At six months of pregnancy, Kim Smithson had only just begun to fill out her maternity clothes. She was settling into the routine of her third pregnancy, working full time, taking care of two sons. Her baby had just entered the active stage, jumping, rolling and kicking...
Helping hands: Volunteers pitch in to build Boys & Girls Club (06/05/11)
Roger Harrell brightens up like a boy at the circus when he talks about the Boys & Girls Club of Bedford County and the army of volunteers who are turning a dream into reality. As area director for the club, Harrell became the No. 1 volunteer when he accepted the opportunity last year to help create a club from scratch in a community that has never had one. For Harrell, this is his 22nd Boys & Girls Club in a career that has spanned more than 27 years and five states...
Nonprofits could be cut by city (06/01/11)
Shelbyville City Council members discussed the dilemma of how to support local nonprofit groups during a study session Tuesday night. Council member Jo Ann Holland said some of the nonprofits which receive city funding would have a hard time surviving without it. Mayor Wallace Cartwright said that some cases, city funding, even in modest amounts, is necessary for the agencies to qualify for grant funding from other sources...
Water Safety Day is fun yet serious (06/01/11)
The third annual Water Safety Day, planned for Saturday at Shelbyville Recreation Center, aims to make information fun for both children and parents, according to Pam Henry, aquatics director for the rec center. It covers water safety for all sorts of venues -- home and public pools and natural bodies of water...
Relay for life...and love (05/29/11)
In the wee hours of Saturday morning, walkers will take turns making the rounds of Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center. It's a labor of love, a way of remembering those who have been lost to cancer, providing services to those now suffering and funding research to help save generations yet unborn...
Heart problems hamper young Samara (05/29/11)
The heart is a miraculous machine; one side pumps blood to the lungs to be oxygenated, while the other side pumps the oxygen-rich blood to the body, where it's needed. That's the way it's supposed to work. But for month-old Samara Powell, a hole in her heart is allowing the unoxygenated blood to mix with the oxygenated. She also has two smaller holes in her heart and a deformed valve known as an Ebstein's anomaly. She needs surgery, but first doctors need to get her tiny body strong enough...
MANNA organizes aid groups (05/29/11)
When children are placed in the legal system, there is an alphabet soup of agencies there to help and protect them, from CASA to DCS, from COP to CFD. Add one more. MANNA is a state-required community advisory board (Mentoring and Nurturing the Needs of All) that hopes to make it easier for all of these agencies to work together even better...
Kids travel world without leaving home (05/27/11)
Hey, kids, are you ready to go around the world? Relax, parents, you aren't going to have to get a second mortgage to buy gas for the voyage. Just get them to Argie Cooper Library every Wednesday from June 1 to July 13 for the library's annual summer reading program...
Drowning victim described as brave, free-spirited (05/27/11)
The mother of a Cascade High student who drowned Wednesday at Normandy Reservoir says she'll remember his zest for life. "He was just so brave," Heather Moore of Wartrace said of her son, Alan, 17. "He was free-spirited, a very happy, outgoing person."...
Pitcher throws a hit (05/24/11)
The Boys & Girls Club of Bedford County has received a grant for furnishings and laptop computers just in time for the first summer program of the club that opened its doors in late March. The Project One Four Foundation completed the renovation of the club's Learning Resource Center by adding another counter top along one side of the room and purchasing seven HP Pavilion laptops...
Titans voice to speak at annual fundraiser (05/24/11)
The voice of the Tennessee Titans, Mike Keith, will be the keynote speaker June 9 for the second annual Steak & Chicken dinner for the Boys & Girls Club of Bedford County. The Steak & Chicken dinner is a variation on the Steak & Hamburger fundraisers held by the Murfreesboro Boys & Girls Club. It is the main fundraiser for the Shelbyville club, which opened its doors in late March...
Volunteers spread care to hurting soldiers (05/22/11)
When I first heard that some middle school students in Unionville had decorated a quilt for a wounded soldier, I thought it might make a nice little feature story for the Times-Gazette. But after I met Community Middle School principal Dee McCullough and read the letter of thanks he and art teacher Cynthia Donnelly had received from the aunt of the wounded marine, I began to see it was a much deeper story...
Quilts for the brave (05/22/11)
Some of the Community Middle School students who helped make the quilt of valor, from left, are Karina Pina, Tawny Nelson, Denton Bell, Nikki Thurber, Jake Cartwright, Maggie Yates and Jamie Demonbreun with their art teacher, Cynthia Donnelly. This story is about a quilt. But not just any quilt, but a "quilt of valor."...
Funding cuts hit hard (05/19/11)
Cuts in funding are causing financial woes for some local non-profit organizations, Shelbyville City Council was told. The council heard requests for funding from both community organizations and charitable agencies, although 10 of the 23 groups listed did not send a representative to appear before the council Tuesday night...
Brave steps into a better future (05/15/11)
The Next Step Home, a transitional home for women which opened in Bedford County in November 2008, has quietly gone about the business of providing services to women in crisis. Nationally, transitional homes average a 20 percent success rate. The local program is exceptional, with 75 percent of the women they assist finding success after treatment...
Local tornado relief efforts (05/04/11)
Here are some local efforts to respond to recent tornadoes and severe storms. Please notify the Times-Gazette at 684-1200 or tgnews@t-g.com if we can assist in publicizing other efforts. n Bob Parks Realty, 605 Delray Street, is accepting items for tornado relief in the Birmingham, Ala., area. Taylor Northern, a former student of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, is a staff member at the real estate firm's Murfreesboro office and is coordinating the effort...
Students in Service (05/01/11)
Students from The Webb School in Bell Buckle participated in their annual Community Service Day last Thursday, April 21. After determining areas they felt were most in need of their help, students traveled throughout Bedford, Coffee, Rutherford and Davidson Counties...
Bring drugs for safe disposal to CPI building (04/29/11)
The newest of drugs being abused by today's youth are probably in your own home. Misuse of prescription drugs has grown, and now ranks behind only alcohol and marijuana as most-abused by middle and high-school students. Bedford Against Drugs (BAD) is joining hundreds of other communities who will participate this weekend in the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (USDEA) National Take Back Initiative. ...
SCHS students give blood to remember Korley (04/22/11)
Korley Davis died in February, just shy of her 12th birthday. But on Thursday, she may have saved a life. Shelbyville Central High School students held an American Red Cross blood drive in Korley's memory, with 201 donors scheduled, not counting a waiting list for available slots. Sean Armstrong of the Red Cross said the agency was hoping for 120 pints of usable blood from the event...
CASA steps into independence (04/17/11)
It has been a year since CASA Works left the umbrella of the Center for Family Development and became an independent entity. And it's been a good year. "Your investment has paid off," said Lynne Farrar, the executive director of the child advocacy program. "We had 125 children working with 30 volunteers who will log 8,000 hours."...
Softball league adds memorial for Korley (04/12/11)
There was a sadly familiar shade of green filling the stands at the Daisye Musgrave Hulan ball park late Friday afternoon. It was the same bright, citrus shade of green that beribboned signs and mailboxes around town only months ago, urging everyone first to pray for, and then to remember, Korley Davis...
United Way gains from 5K run, walk (04/07/11)
Fundraisers often have to hit the streets to bring money in for their causes, but in the case of the United Way, they're literally hitting the streets this weekend -- for at least 5 kilometers. The United Way's first Spring into Health 5K Run & Walk will take place Saturday from the Celebration pavilion on Whitthorne Street at 8 a.m. Registration will be from 7-7:45 a.m. Registrations is $30, with proceeds going to the United Way of Bedford County...
Gospel lessons, with help from a horse (04/01/11)
Have you ever had a colt that refused to follow the rules, even though those rules were designed to make its life easier? Come to think of it -- have you ever known a person who did the same thing? That's the premise behind Wildhorse Ministries, a Louisiana-based nonprofit that combines horse whispering with lessons from the Gospel. The ministry is led by Paul Daily who will bring his message -- and his equestrian skills -- to Calsonic Arena Saturday night...
Hee Haw & Howdy offers cornpone for a cause (03/30/11)
The real Minnie Pearl, Grandpa Jones and Junior may have gone on to perform at the Opry in the Sky, but the tradition of country music and down home fun they built on the old show "Hee Haw" continues in Shelbyville. The annual cornpone review "Hee Haw and Howdy" that benefits the American Cancer Society is back, and if you missed last week's shows, don't worry -- this year, extra performances have been added and you can catch the show in Central High's auditorium at 7 p.m. ...
Boys & Girls Club celebrates first week (03/25/11)
Today is the last day of the Boys & Girls Club's first week and the verdict is in. "It's cool." That was the opinion of Caleb Peacock, an Eakin student who attends the program with his little sister, Alyssa. He admitted missing his computer and the games on it, but didn't seem to mind playing Connect 4 with his sister, or pool or foosball with the other guys...
Local woman sends blankets to Japan (03/20/11)
In the long-running comic strip "Peanuts," the character Linus, although in many ways the most intelligent and thoughtful of the group, had a vulnerability -- he needed what he called his "security blanket," and was traumatized to have it taken away, even for a short time...
Driven to serve (03/20/11)
Service might have been Kelly Pietkiewicz's first word. The daughter of two local educators, the University of Memphis senior has been taught to take a hand in the game and serve her community for as long as she can remember. "My parents are both teachers and Micky and I come from Shelbyville, a very giving town," said Kelly, sister of former Times-Gazette intern Micky Pietkiewicz and daughter of Bill and Miriam Pietkiewicz. "We were both always taught to give back."...
Supporting paws (03/18/11)
Contact Life Line offers training class (03/16/11)
Sometimes, people need someone they can to talk to -- someone who can help, or knows how to get that help. Beginning on Saturday in Tullahoma, you can learn how to be that someone who is there when needed the most. Volunteer training classes for Contact Life Line will be held Saturday at First Baptist Church in Tullahoma, 108 Grundy St., from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m...
Paws & feet: Perfect team (03/15/11)
If you love the outdoors and love animals, then don't miss Saturday's third annual Paws for a Cause 5K Run/1 Mile Fun Walk. The event will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Celebration Pavilion. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. A pet festival is being added this year and will include vendors, food, face painting, pet photography and micro chipping...
Prom helper (03/13/11)
Big and poufy? Simple and sleek? Long or short? No matter what adjective best describes the dress you want to get for prom, one thing's for sure -- you don't have to pay hundreds of dollars for that dress. "You get one shot at prom, and that's it," said Maleah Qualls of Shelter Insurance. "Some people can't afford it. I had a friend who once told me, 'I didn't go -- I couldn't afford it.' I thought that was awful."...
Liberty, Community, Cascade students eligible for Boys & Girls Club (03/10/11)
Families of students from Liberty School, Community and Cascade elementary schools may apply for membership in the Boys & Girls Club of Bedford County this week, according to area director Roger Harrell. A story published Wednesday in the Times-Gazette incorrectly stated that students from Liberty, Community and Cascade would be added later...
Youth club's debut nears (03/09/11)
Years of work to bring a Boys & Girls Club to Bedford County will be realized when the club opens for children beginning Monday, according to Roger Harrell, area director for the club. A lottery will be used to select the first group of children to become members...
Yes, they're actually waiters (03/09/11)
What do hippies, hula dancers and home builders have in common? Answer: They all served lunch at the third annual Celebrity Waiter luncheon, held Tuesday at the Blue Ribbon Circle to benefit Relay For Life. A representative for each businesses or organization who sponsored the event also donated their talents -- or not -- by making a career change for the day and waiting tables...
'Girl Talk' makes delicate discoveries easier -- and fun (02/25/11)
Is there anything more uncomfortable than being a 12-year-old girl and having to get "The Talk" from her mom? Yep -- being the mom. The Bedford County Extension Office has a way of making that information exchange clearer, less uncomfortable, and, in fact -- fun...
Islam: Bringing out the facts (02/23/11)
Islam is the second largest religion in the world -- and the fastest growing -- yet few Americans know anything about it. That, according to the Rev. Peter Whalen of Episcopal Church of the Redeemer and pastor Kent Lewis of Christ Lutheran Church, could be a grave error, and the root of future misunderstanding...
Mortgage problems? Help is available (02/20/11)
A new federal program is providing mortgage payment assistance to Bedford County's unemployed and underemployed. Bedford County residents have been identified as heavily impacted by the recession and can now apply for the highest level of benefit -- up to $20,000 to cover up to 18 months of mortgage expenses, through the U.S. Treasury's new Hardest Hit Fund Program...
Grit and willpower: Pickle struggled valiantly (02/20/11)
"Farmers are just tough, gritty people," said Gay Ervin, local dairy farmer and program assistant for the University of Tennessee Extension Office. That grit is what saved the life of a Bedford County man severely burned in a farming accident last month. But Robert Pickle, 52, of the Pleasant Grove community remains in critical condition in Vanderbilt's Burn Unit, with third degree burns on his body from the waist down...
Candlelight vigil set by missing man's family (02/18/11)
Family members of Bobby Smelcer, who has been missing since late November, are planning a candlelight vigil on the lawn of Bedford County Courthouse at 6 p.m. Saturday. "Our family has organized this mass gathering to serve several purposes -- to honor Bobby Smelcer and to give thanks for all the outpouring of love, support and prayers that we have received in our quest to find our loved one," Karen Harris, Smelcer's sister, said...
Fired up over chili (02/17/11)
Saturday night will see a number of "firsts" for the Wartrace Volunteer Fire Department. It's the first time the department has held a chili supper and auction fundraiser -- and it's the first time since the passing of the late, great '"Hoss" Cartwright that his legendary chili will be cooked again...
Russia awaits Rich ruling on Hansen (02/17/11)
Russian officials have filed documents in Bedford County's juvenile court, saying they want to wait until a local judge rules on a child support case dealing with a boy sent back to Moscow by his adoptive mother before moving forward in that country...
Serious fun: Annual event funds Habitat home (02/16/11)
The Habitat Ball Committee wrapped up another year of campaigning Saturday with an evening of entertainment, testimony and fellowship. "The Ball, once again, was a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for a deserving family," said Angelica Wortham, chair for this year's ball. "We had the support of our sponsors, patrons and guests to help us in our fundraising efforts. Each item that is donated and each ticket bought is one nail, window or door closer to helping us with our objective."...
Fundraiser for Davis family doubles predicted amount (02/15/11)
A few weeks ago, friends had hoped to raise $50,000 to help offset the medical expenses incurred by the family of the late Korley Davis. Chili suppers were planned and T-shirts were sold as events to benefit the family of the little girl who passed away earlier this month sprouted up all over the county...
Davis family benefit offers music, auction (02/10/11)
A fundraiser to benefit the family of the late Korley Davis is still on for Friday evening. The event, to be held at Calsonic Arena, will kick off at 5 p.m. with live music. The Bedford County community rallied in prayer and support of Korley, who was on life support at Vanderbilt awaiting a double lung transplant for a month, by planning numerous fundraisers to benefit her, including tomorrow's. Sadly, the 11-year-old girl passed away last week...
Hunger pangs? Relax. Girl Scout cookies are arriving (02/10/11)
Spring may be taking its time about showing up in Bedford County, but there's another annual tradition that will be here Saturday -- snow or no snow. "The Girl Scout cookies are coming!" said Virginia Dennis, service unit manager for the Bedford County Girl Scouts...
Russian uproar over adopted boy's treatment in Alaska (02/04/11)
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Russian officials are closely watching a case involving an Anchorage mother of six who was charged with child abuse after a video that aired on "Dr. Phil" showed her punishing her adopted Russian son by squirting hot sauce into his mouth and forcing him into a cold shower...
A new message (02/04/11)
Attorneys blast motion in Russian adoption case (02/02/11)
"Abhorrent" is how attorneys representing two adoption agencies involved in the matter of an boy sent back to Russia are describing arguments to dismiss the case. In late December, a lawyer representing Torry Hansen filed a motion to dismiss child support claims made by Hansen's adoption agency, the World Association for Children and Parents (WACAP)...
Prayers (and more) for Korley (01/30/11)
"Pray For Korley" ... Those three words are appearing at more and more locations around town, thanks to friends of Korley Davis, the 11-year-old Liberty student who remains in Vanderbilt regaining strength so she can be eligible for the lung transplant she desperately needs...
Praying for Korley (01/28/11)
Fans can get into Wheelchair Tournament act (01/23/11)
The Rollin' Round Robin Classic Wheelchair Basketball Tournament, sponsored by Heritage Medical Center and the Bell Buckle Parks and Recreation Department, hits the boards in the Webb School gym next Friday and Saturday, but the five teams of wheelchair athletes won't be the only ones shooting the hoops...
Girls of Grace: Conference helps teenage girls cope with today's issues (01/23/11)
Body image? Self esteem? Eating disorders, sex and the downside of social networking? Yuck, if you're a teenage girl, right? Well, not if you're a teenage girl attending Girls of Grace, an exciting one-day event being held Feb. 19 at World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro, for girls 12 to 17...
'Papa Ray' honored for devotion to abused, neglected children (01/22/11)
In the 10 years that our CASA program has been serving children in Bedford and Coffee Counties, there have been many volunteers who have fulfilled the role of advocate for abused and neglected children. One of our volunteers always rises to the top for me...
United Way organizer's gifts continue giving (01/21/11)
The late Bob Green was Chamber of Commerce executive director for only a few years, from 1989 to 1993, but he left a legacy that continues today, according to his wife Donna. Green died in 1998. During his term at the chamber, he played a role in chartering United Way of Bedford County, the Extended School Program (now known as the School-Age Care Program), a Salvation Army service unit which has since become inactive and the Keep Bedford Beautiful program, which became inactive as a KBB affiliate but which led to ongoing beautification efforts.. ...
Hansen child support asked (01/20/11)
A court in Russia is demanding that a former Shelbyville resident pay $2,500 a month in child support for the care of the boy she sent back to his homeland. Meanwhile, the family at the center of the controversy has a new lawyer. Legal wrangling continues in the case of the boy returned to Moscow by adoptive mother Torry Hansen, with an official from that country now claiming that she is refusing to give up her parental rights and does not want to pay child support...
Nonprofits gain help from grants (01/13/11)
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee has announced distribution of $8,500 in grants to three Bedford County nonprofits as part of its annual grantmaking process. "This has been an incredibly trying year for Middle Tennessee," said Ellen Lehman, president of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, "with the devastating flood and a still-challenging economic climate. ...
Haven of help: St Jude Children's Hospital gets help from SCHS (01/09/11)
Imagine if your child was diagnosed with cancer. Where should we go for treatment? How long will the cancer last? Will it be fatal? How are we going to pay for everything? These are just a few questions that would weigh down your mind. At St. Jude Children's Hospital you could cross out the last question. No family is ever turned away because they are unable to pay for their child's treatments...
Korley has been winner in game of life (01/06/11)
One of Liberty School's and Shelbyville Central High's biggest sports fans needs our prayers and thoughts. Korley Davis, a student at Liberty and daughter of Central teacher Becky Davis, has suffered with leukemia for years and is in need of a double lung transplant which would take place in Pittsburgh...
Ribbons for Korley (01/06/11)
There is a huge gold and green bow on the outdoor sign at Parkway Diner today, next to the words: "Pray for Korley." Korley is Korley Davis, the Liberty School 6th grader in dire need of a lung transplant. If Christy Boyce, a friend of the family, has her way, businesses all over Shelbyville will display similar ribbons and the same, heartfelt message...
Wheels of steel become a big deal (01/02/11)
Well, it's officially January, so it must be getting close to time for that great annual sport tradition. Super Bowl? What Super Bowl? We're talking about the Rollin' Round Robin Classic Wheelchair Basketball Tournament in Bell Buckle Jan. 29. Presented by the Bell Buckle Parks & Rec Department with Heritage Medical Center, the tournament is now in its second year, filling the Webb School gym with athletes and fans for an all-day affair...
Holiday blues often hit hard (12/28/10)
It's almost Christmas, and everyone is excited. Expectations rise as temperatures drop and the newspapers, television and even the stores are filled with cheerful stories of love and hope and everything that is wonderful about the season. But what happens the day after Christmas? The day after New Year's?...
Signs of depression (12/28/10)
Depression symptoms include: n Feelings of sadness or unhappiness n Irritability or frustration, even over small matters n Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities n Reduced sex drive n Insomnia or excessive sleeping n Changes in appetite -- depression often causes decreased appetite and weight loss, but in some people it causes increased cravings for food and weight gain...
Cannon seen in national ad (12/23/10)
Sharp-eyed Times-Gazette readers might have seen a local face in Sunday's issue of Parade magazine, which is included in the print edition of the Times-Gazette and more than 500 other newspapers each week. Calvin Cannon, whose program to provide prom tuxedoes to needy young men received a grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project, can be seen in a montage of grant recipients on the first page of a two-page Pepsi ad in the magazine. ...
Holiday outreach to nursing home patients (12/23/10)
There is something about the holidays Caine Warren, 10, looks forward to more than gifts under the Christmas tree. Each year, Caine and his grandmother Christy Warren visit area nursing homes, presenting residents with cuddlies and toiletries. "Christies Cuddlies for Clera" has been going on for five years now...
Shelter zoning talks detailed (12/23/10)
Zoning issues and the objections of neighbors are the reasons that a homeless shelter won't be allowed in a Shelbyville neighborhood, according to the city's planning director. Dr. Carl Bailey, president and chairman of the board of CROSS Shelter Project Inc., had claimed in a column published on Dec. ...
Not-so-jolly holiday moments (12/22/10)
For many, the holiday season can be a wonderful time of year. People gather around dinner tables with family and friends to enjoy the festivities, food and fun. But for some families the holiday togetherness leads to friction and even a few family feuds. Here are four suggestions to help you minimize family friction during the holidays...
Celebrate Christmas with The Fly on your tree (12/21/10)
You may think you've finished up your Christmas shopping, but there's one last stocking stuffer you ought to get. The United Way's annual Bedford County-related Christmas ornament is finally here, and this year it features The Fly Arts Center. "We send pictures off to the company and they create artwork out of it," said Dawn Holley, director of the Bedford County United Way. "The ornaments are 24-karat plated."...
An Outreach of love, giving (12/19/10)
"If it weren't for them, we wouldn't have a Christmas this year," said Margaret Doss. She sat in the back of the City Outreach Ministries building Saturday morning with her daughters, Sarabeth Prince, 4, and Emily Prince, who turned 6 that very day, and waited for their names to be called. Other children streamed past them, leaving the building with large black sacks bulging with toys, riding bicycles, or even driving in tiny battery-operated cars...
Toys for Tots (12/17/10)
Cold hits heating help hard (12/16/10)
This may be the year you want coal in your stocking -- you might need it for heat. Snow, ice, record lows and lengthy cold spells are going to send utility bills skyrocketing over the next few months. There are many in Bedford County who won't be able to pay their doubled or even tripled fuel bills when the time comes, and the financial assistance that has been there for them in the past simply isn't there for them anymore...
Songs for Brenda (12/15/10)
Saturday marks the first anniversary of a tragedy that touched many lives in Bedford County, especially the friends and families of Brenda Golden and Victoria Atwell. The two Cascade High School seniors were involved in a deadly accident on U.S. 231 North at Deason on Dec. 18, 2009...
Gifts, songs and love from you (12/09/10)
Gift gathering for the county's nursing home residents is going well, but help is still needed from the public for delivery and perhaps from those who can carry a tune. The fifth annual Linda Hayes Nursing Home Gift Drive, which makes sure that the county's elderly receive gifts during the holidays, is well underway, and organizer Lindsey Sudberry said the gift part "is going great."...
Fee for free: A great gift (12/08/10)
For someone without a high school diploma, a GED can be the stepping stone to the next level of education, and ultimately to a new job or career. That stepping stone is especially vital in today's economy, said Elaine Weaver of Bedford County Adult Education Program on Depot Street...
Homeless shelter zoning in city to be studied (12/03/10)
Shelbyville's planning commission will be looking over zoning requirements for homeless shelters over the next few months. Codes and planning director Ed Dodson said that the commission needed to discuss in what type of zone a homeless shelter would be placed...
Blood drive set for Friday (12/02/10)
It's called "The Gift of Life," and yet, fewer than 10 percent of us give it. "Every two seconds, someone needs blood in the United States," said Joette Phillips, communications manager with the American Red Cross headquarters in Nashville that coordinates blood drives in the Tennessee Valley...
Giving Tree winner lives up to name (11/28/10)
Students recognized two members of Shelbyville Central High School's staff during the school's annual food drive last week. Following the announcement that the students had collected more than 26,000 items to donate to the local Good Samaritan, students continued their cheers as Louise Armstrong was named one of two recipients of this year's Giving Tree Award...
Churches work together to help Good Sam (11/28/10)
Good Samaritan is one of the oldest non-profit organizations in Bedford County. It was established in 1987. Four churches, St. William Catholic Church, First Christian Church, First United Methodist Church, and Cannon United Methodist Church, along with the Ministerial Association, who was to be the liaison between Good Samaritan and the churches of Bedford County, formed a committee deciding to donate funds to a centralized helping agency known as Good Samaritan...
Can-sas arrives: Canned food drive a success (11/28/10)
The holidays are approaching, the economy remains weak and the shelves at Good Samaritan are bare. Or they were bare -- until last week. Each year, Shelbyville Central High School's Great Canned Food Drive seems to come at a time when Good Samaritan is in great need, and this year was no exception. This year's theme, "Toto, I don't think we're in Can-sas anymore," trumped last year's totals with nearly 27,000 items delivered to Good Sam following the Nov. 19 food drive...
Nursing home gift drive opens (11/26/10)
Grassroots organizers are once again gearing up to make sure nursing home residents are not forgotten this Christmas and are asking for the public's help. Lindsey Sudberry and her mother, Lorrie Gunn, are spearheading the fifth annual Linda Hayes Nursing Home Gift Drive, which makes sure that the county's elderly receives gifts during the holidays...
Early holiday spirit (11/21/10)
'Tis the season -- to be busy. With Thanksgiving next week, Christmas next week, and an Indian Summer all around, people in Bedford County took advantage of the weather to get out and about Saturday. There was a lot of getting out and about to be done, too. Church bazaars, high school plays, community Thanksgiving dinners, the events ranged from the cultural, such as the Trees of Christmas exhibit opening at The Fly, to the social, such as the ham breakfast at the Senior Center...
Violence, tragedy hit children hard across Bedford (11/18/10)
According to the annual Kids Count report released this month by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, Bedford County has infant mortality twice as bad as the state average, a rate of substantiated child abuse that is nearly twice the state average and a rate of teen violent deaths that is nearly twice the state average...
Hands of help (11/16/10)
Anyone who wants to sign their children up for the toy giveaway held by City Outreach Ministries needs to do it on Saturday, said Scott Horn, and they can grab themselves a good meal while they're at it. Beginning at 11 a.m., City Outreach is having its annual community Thanksgiving dinner at the building on Burt Street...
Bowled over: Skills Development Center clients take the lanes (11/14/10)
Chip Martin bowled his first strike last week -- and what a celebration it was. Kim Manley, owner of Shelbyville Bowl, even broke out an old box of trophies, and passed one out to Chip for his accomplishment. "That trophy made his day," said Sharon McClaran, workshop supervisor for the Skills Development Center in Shelbyville. "Kim is always so kind to us ... They all love to bowl. I think they like the food the most, but just the atmosphere in general -- Kim makes everyone feel special."...
Helping hands for a helper (11/11/10)
"Do you want a good news story?" The caller didn't care to be named or get credit for her part. Nor did the other people who filled in the blanks. They're volunteers. Some knew that the Chapel Hill-area woman has helped others with no expectation of reward...
Needs up, help down (11/07/10)
Halloween may be over, but there is still a haunting problem out there. Christmas is coming and with it, winter, and the needs of many people increase beyond their ability to fulfill them. Luckily, there are other people who feel the need to help. Scott Horn of City Outreach Ministries is one of them, but he'll be the first person to tell you he couldn't do it without volunteers and the generosity of businesses and individuals in the community. ...
Charities' spending tracked on Internet (11/07/10)
Where is your money going? If you prefer giving to a larger organization, it's actually pretty easy to see if your money's really helping or not. Here are some web sites that rate, rank, or provide information nonprofits and their use of donations. n Evangelical Council on Financial Accountability: ecfa.org (specific to Christian charities)...
Caution urged with telephone solicitations (11/07/10)
Telephone solicitations create more cause for alarm as many scams are run in this way. Here are some tips specific to telephone calls from solicitors....
Lovin' Louvin: Krauss, others assist Opry legend (11/02/10)
It was standing room only at the Bell Buckle Banquet Hall Saturday night as dozens of country and bluegrass musicians took the stage -- and hundreds watched from the audience. The event was a day-long benefit concert and silent auction to help the legendary Charlie Louvin, member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, in his battle against pancreatic cancer...
Safe haven: Troubled boys find new life at Arrowhead (10/31/10)
Almost one year ago to the day, the Arrowhead Ranch, beautifully laid out across nearly 200 acres in Normandy, was structurally ready to begin its mission of serving boys in need of a home, love, structure and stability.. ...
Krauss to perform at Louvin benefit (10/29/10)
Bluegrass legend Alison Krauss has joined the star-studded line-up for the Charlie Louvin benefit concert at the Bell Buckle Banquet banquet hall Saturday night. Hall manager Martha Akers made the announcement Thursday. The concert and auction will be held from noon until 9 p.m. Saturday at the Bell Buckle Banquet Hall...
Outreach group outlines its vision (10/27/10)
Community Outreach Partnership of Bedford County plans to share its vision with community members who attend an open house Saturday, Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at its 203 Holland St. location. "Please come and see how one of the county's local charities is trying to make a difference for the needy in our community," according to a press release issued by COPBC...
Fun, safety at the park (10/26/10)
United Way of Bedford County will hold its annual Child Safety Fun Fair Saturday at H.V. Griffin Park, immediately following the annual Spooktacular 5K Run and at the same time as Jostens Harvest Hoopla, a fund-raiser to benefit United Way. Child Safety Fun Fair will run from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, and will include free ID kits and fingerprinting, as well as free child seat safety checks by certified Tennessee Highway Patrol officers, as well as fun activities and booths for the family...
Canned food drive to be held Wednesday (10/26/10)
Heritage South Community Credit Union's Canned Food Drive to benefit the local Good Samaritan Association will be held Wednesday. "During trying economic times, Bedford Countians and Heritage South always do what is needed to help our neighbors." Marvin McBee, credit union CEO, said. "I know that we can help fill the shelves at Good Samaritan."...
Sparks of support (10/24/10)
Five men and a lady are all fired up for Saturday's annual Spooktacular 5K run/walk, which will benefit United Way of Bedford County. Six Shelbyville firefighters will join the pack on Oct. 30, thanks to Kenneth Holley, husband of United Way Executive Director Dawn Holley...
Donations help feed homeless county students (10/22/10)
Bedford County Schools' backpack program sends food home -- for lack of a better word -- each weekend with students who qualify as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Director of Student Services Terry Looper told Bedford County Board of Education on Monday that the program is thriving due to strong community support and a grant program from Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee...
Walking for life (10/17/10)
Barbara Garcia has no strong connection to breast cancer, but a commercial on television caught her attention last year and now she's supporting thousands who suffer from the disease. Barbara and her friend and co-worker Amy Shoemaker are training for the 3 Day For A Cure Walk, to be held Oct. 22-24 in Atlanta. They have raised more than $5,000 so far for the race, which will require them to walk 60 miles in three days...
Empty Bowls benefit held (10/15/10)
Red Cross hit hard by residential fires (10/13/10)
The local chapter of the Red Cross is asking for assistance so they can give help to those that truly need it this season. Greg King, CEO of the Heart of Tennessee Chapter said that volunteers have been very busy in Bedford County recently, and funding donations are needed from the community so that the Red Cross to help continue to provide aid for disaster-affected families...
Soul of a servant: Adoption advocate lauded for caring support (10/03/10)
Local adoption worker Sandra Roberts enjoyed every bit of what she called her 15 minutes of fame last month. A trip to the Vanderbilt chancellor's home, a sleek black gown and nail polish called "I'm not really a waitress" had this self-described country girl living the high life...
Back on the trail (09/30/10)
Saddle 'em up and move 'em on out because it's that time of year again! About 500 riders and their horses will be enjoying the crisp October air and fall colors Oct. 9 as they participate in the 11th annual Strolling Jim Trail Ride in Wartrace. "It's a real family-oriented event," said the ride's founder, Ray Pimental. ...
Walk for a cure (09/21/10)
Who would have thought an ordinary father-son camping trip would turn a 7-year-old boy into a superhero? Last year, Baker Thomas was camping with his father David when things just didn't seem normal to Dad. "I noticed he was excessively thirsty," said David, a Shelbyville native who now lives in Nashville. "I couldn't get enough (fluids) in him ... But we didn't have a family history so I didn't think much about it ... Then he had to go to the bathroom a lot so that alarmed me."...
Community Outreach provides a place for relief (09/19/10)
Two years ago, Vivian Salas was living a pretty good life. She had a nice home, a decent vehicle, her health -- and then suddenly something vanished. Then, like the domino effect, everything else seemed to fall apart. "I became sick," Salas said. "Within six months I had lost everything, selling my belongings piece by piece. I was planning to end my life."...
Road Riders' poker run feeds families (09/15/10)
By the second weekend in October, the leaves should be changing color, the air crisp and cool, and the hills of Middle Tennessee filled with the low-pitched rumble of motorcycles. The Tennessee Road Riders have set Oct. 9 for the third annual "Cruzin' for a Cause We Care" poker run...
United Way kicks off fall campaign (09/10/10)
United Way of Bedford County kicked off its fall fund-raising campaign on Thursday with an appreciation luncheon at H.V. Griffin Park for participating companies and contributors. The luncheon included the recognition of last year's award-winning campaigns. ...
Firehouse BBQ moves to a real firehouse (09/09/10)
Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Firehouse Barbecue at a new -- and appropriate -- location this year: Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy. The barbecue will be Monday from 5-7 p.m. (the serving line will run from 5-6 p.m.) in the dining hall, and free tours of the campus will be available beginning at 4 p.m...
Senior connection (09/09/10)
"We have fun," said senior citizen Shirley Smith. "And we solved the problems of the world -- like this $11 garbage fee...." The other women laugh as they knit. And visit. And share everything from patterns to recipes. And, okay, maybe just a little ... gossip. But mostly, the knitting club at the Shelbyville/Bedford County Senior Citizens' Center connect, and that's the theme for the month...
Service earns payback (09/01/10)
Charles Grissom arrived at the Celebration Saturday night dressed to sell Lions Club programs, as he does during much of the show. His wife Wanda, however, told him to wear long pants, pointing out that there would be family members present. He arrived at the show and began selling programs. Then, a little later, Wanda brought him a coat and tie and told him to change clothes...
Documents 'fudged' because of concerns about Russian response (08/22/10)
E-mails between adoption workers involved with the case of a Russian boy who was sent back to his homeland alone by a former Shelbyville woman appear to indicate that reports about the placement of the child to Russian officials may have been "fudged."...
Lots of stuff fills bus (08/13/10)
Every year around Christmas and Thanksgiving, people from this community and across the nation give to others. However, those are not the only times of the year that people are in need. That is one reason that the United Way of Bedford County organizes the "Stuff the Bus" fundraiser. This year marked the fourth annual event...
Hansen petition transferred to juvenile court (08/13/10)
A petition requesting an adoption agency be appointed as a temporary guardian for a Russian boy sent back to his homeland by his adoptive mother has been moved to juvenile court. The World Association for Children and Parents filed the petition in May requesting that Bedford County's Circuit Court appoint the agency as a temporary guardian for 8-year-old Justin A. Hansen...
CASA swearing-in held (07/02/10)
Stuff the Bus time (07/01/10)
As the summer kicks into full swing, the start of school gets closer and closer, meaning that it's time for Bedford County United Way's annual "Stuff the Bus." The drive collects school supplies for needy children throughout Bedford County. "Over the years, we've collected an average of 7,000 items per year," said Dawn Holley, Bedford County United Way executive director...
Orange and white night (06/25/10)
First Baptist Church was flooded with orange Thursday night as Tennessee men's basketball coach Bruce Pearl addressed the inaugural Steak and Chicken fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club of Bedford County. Pearl and board members made it clear that the focus of the event was the children of Bedford County, not basketball...
Backpack program a success (06/24/10)
Within the school system, they're referred to as "McKinney-Vento" students, the name a reference to a federal bill. It's considered more respectful than the term "homeless." In the 2007-2008 school year, according to Supervisor of Student Services Terry Looper, there were 7 students in Bedford County who "lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence" as defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. In the 2008-2008 school year, there were 9 such students...
Signs of relief: Newell Rubbermaid helps with flood benefit (06/24/10)
The all-star "Nashville Rising" flood relief concert Tuesday night at Bridgestone Arena had a Shelbyville connection: a giant autograph wall, set up by Shelbyville-based employees of Newell Rubbermaid, which makes the popular Sharpie line of markers. Celebrities participating in the concert signed the autograph wall during rehearsals and setups, and then fans were given the chance to sign it as well on the night of the concert...
Boys and Girls Club works towards opening local facility (06/20/10)
Boys and girls. When one hears these words, he or she may not think about the struggles that many children are faced with daily, especially outside of school. However, the need in Bedford County for a safe environment for children and teens to go is more pressing than ever...
Wish comes alive (06/18/10)
Dreams come true. That's how 11-year-old Korley Davis describes her experience and meeting with country music superstar Taylor Swift at the CMA Festival, part of the wish she was granted by the Make-A-Wish foundation and Shelbyville Central High School...
Harris awards cap long history of Rotary Club (06/18/10)
At the next-to-last meeting of Shelbyville's noon Rotary Club, 27 people were named Paul Harris Fellows, the recognition given in return for a $1,000 contribution to Rotary International charities such as its drive to eliminate polio. The club became only the second in its district to have 100 percent of its membership with Paul Harris Fellow status. Fellowships were also given to family members of Rotarians, former Rotarians, and family members of former Rotarians...
Russia, US officials near adoption accord (06/17/10)
Russia's children's rights ombudsman says U.S. officials have agreed to the main provisions of a new agreement that would allow Americans to begin adopting Russian children again, but that more time is needed for technical details. Adoptions in Russia became a highly emotional issue after Torry Hansen of Shelbyville sent her 7-year-old boy, Justin, back to Russia unaccompanied in April. Torry Hansen claimed that her adopted son had emotional problems with which she was unable to deal...
Water safety weekend honors memory of young victim (06/13/10)
Tiffany Young's passion for educating children and adults about water safety was obvious as she spoke about her son's drowning accident. Her son, 2-year-old Matthew G. Woods, drowned in a relative's pool in August 2008. The second annual Water Safety Weekend, which is held in memory of Matthew, will take place Saturday, June 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Shelbyville Recreation Center...
County may give workers pay increases (06/13/10)
Bedford County Financial Management Committee received preliminary revenue estimates for the 2010-2011 budget on Friday, and even though they are basically flat Finance Director Robert Daniel told the committee that a 2 percent raise is possible for county employees, who have gone three years without one...
CASA makes new start (06/10/10)
The Court Approved Special Advocate program, better known as CASA, held a luncheon Tuesday at the Fly Arts Building to raise awareness and money. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for abused and neglected children. CASA recently separated from the Center for Child Development and celebrated its new beginning at the luncheon...
Non-profits plead for more funds (06/08/10)
The non-profit agencies which ask Shelbyville and Bedford County governments for contributions are facing the hard reality of continued tight budgets for local governments. As reported last month, 11 of the 22 agencies which ask Shelbyville for funding have asked for increases. The requests total $290,053, and the increased funding being sought is $23,500...
4-year-old cancer survivor among Relay for Life participants (06/06/10)
The statement "You have cancer" can be the most devastating words a person can hear. The disease affects people of all ages and young Payton Templeton-White was no exception. "Payton was diagnosed with leukemia in April 2008," said her mother, Shannon White...
Flood of help for Metro victims, others sought (06/06/10)
It's been more than a month since the floods devastated Nashville and other areas in Middle Tennessee, but the aftermath continues to be felt -- even here in Bedford County. Some Metro residents have located here because their homes are gone or no longer fit to live in, and more may be coming as they are evicted from Nashville hotels to make room for tourists here for the CMA awards. Often, when they arrive, they have nothing, and that's some thing everyone here can help with...
Horse show raises $15K for local cancer victims (06/06/10)
When Joni Jenné started her charity walking horse show years ago, it was her team's efforts to raise money for Relay for Life, the annual fundraising and awareness-raising event for the American Cancer Society. Since then, she's continued to oversee the show and it still raises money for cancer victims -- only now that money stays closer to home...
Relay for Life walkers spend night on track (06/04/10)
Bedford County Relay for Life, to benefit the American Cancer Society, begins tonight at the Celebration grounds and continues through Saturday morning. The annual event is the focal point of a local fund-raising campaign which kicked off in November, with a goal of $125,000...
Relay shines in night (05/30/10)
Bedford County Relay for Life, to benefit the American Cancer Society, will kick off Friday at the Celebration grounds and continue through Saturday morning. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. The annual event is the focal point of a local fund-raising campaign which kicked off in November, with a goal of $125,000. ...
Helping hands aid future Americans (05/25/10)
Dozens of Shelbyville's legal immigrants gave a hand Saturday to those who want to become legal citizens. A free workshop that offered legal guidance to qualified individuals and families who want to become American citizens was hosted Saturday at the Chamber of Commerce by the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, or TIRRC...
CASA program splits from CFD (05/23/10)
CASA, the Court Appointed Special Advocate service that has been helping children in family and court matters for 10 years, is leaving the nest. For the first decade, it operated under the umbrella of the Center for Family Development on the square, one of many programs there designed to help children...
Nonprofits ask for city dollars (05/20/10)
While it's likely that Shelbyville will have a tight budget this coming fiscal year, many area nonprofit organizations and agencies are requesting more funding from the city this year. The city council held a special called meeting Monday to hear the nonprofit requests, which include state affiliated programs, community nonprofits and charitable agencies...
Cannon earns 'GMA' gig with tuxedo grant (05/16/10)
Calvin Cannon's program to provide prom tuxedoes for needy young men, which won a Pepsi "Refresh" program grant, will be featured Monday on ABC's "Good Morning America," which airs from 7-9 a.m. on WKRN-TV (Channel 2). GMA profiles one of the Pepsi grant winners to feature each month and will show a photo montage of Cannon's "Clothe the N.A.K.E.D. Prom Date" program....
Adoption agency asks to intervene in Hansen case (05/13/10)
A petition filed by an out-of-state adoption agency in the case involving the Russian boy sent back to his homeland by his adopted mother is "new ground," according to a Bedford County court official. The World Association for Children and Parents filed the petition Tuesday requesting that the county's Circuit Court appoint the agency as a temporary guardian for Justin A. Hansen, the 8-year-old at the center of the controversy...
Bedford County workers help in rescue operations (05/07/10)
Bedford County rescuers are helping with flood relief efforts in Cheatham County west of Nashville. "Assistant EMA Director Jessica Doak has been helping run the county Emergency Operations Center there since Monday," Bedford County Emergency Management Agency Director Scott Johnson said in an e-mail Thursday. "She has also participated in water evacuation operations."...
A flood of relief (05/07/10)
If there is a silver lining in crisis times it is that traumatic events tend to make everyone work together for the common good. This has been the case with the recent flooding in Nashville and other areas across the state. By the thousands, people are asking, "How can we help?"...
Letter carriers to collect food donations (05/06/10)
The annual "Stamp Out Hunger" food drive conducted by the National Association of Letter Carriers will take place Saturday; local collections of non-perishable food items will be distributed to the needy by Good Samaritan Association. Food items can be left in your mail box or in a bag next to your mail box and will be picked up by carriers as they make their normal rounds. Items can also be brought to the lobby of the U.S. Post Office in Shelbyville...
Home on the ranch (05/02/10)
Let Jeff Sweeney take you on a tour of the Arrowhead Boys Ranch in Normandy, and you'll eventually end up on the tallest of the hills, looking out over the entire spread. "This is my favorite spot," he said. "You can see everything." And you can. You can see the numerous cabins that will soon house boys from 10 to 18 years of age who need homes. ...
Gifts of life: Organ donors give hope to others (04/30/10)
Jennifer Owen gave her sister, Kerrie Upchurch, a kidney. With that, she not only gave her the gift of life, you could even say she gave her the gift of two lives. "I'm 32 weeks pregnant," said Kerrie through her tears. She and Jennifer, now Jennifer Meeks after a recent wedding, were only a few of the inspiring organ transplant stories found at the Chamber of Commerce Thursday morning. ...
Exercise generates electricity and idea (04/29/10)
It's voting time again and you know what the old time politicians will tell you. "Vote early -- and vote often!" Of course, in a real election that's not exactly legal, but when it comes to the Pepsi "Refresh" contest, people are allowed --and encouraged -- to vote early and vote often. Recently, Calvin Cannon of Shelbyville won a $5,000 grant through the Pepsi promotion with his idea, "Clothe the N.A.K.E.D. Prom Date," a scholarship providing tuxedos for young men in local high schools...
Spay, neuter sponsors defray adoptees' costs (04/28/10)
Not everyone who wants to help abandoned animals find a forever home can adopt one. They may not have room; they may live in a complex that forbids pets; or they may have already adopted so many that another one could lead to divorce court ... But you don't have to take a pet to your own home to save it. ...
Church thrift store offers amazing selection (04/25/10)
You can't say the new Community Closet thrift store at Shiloh United Methodist Church offers everything but the kitchen sink. It has that, too. In fact, there are at least three sinks that have been donated to the outreach program, along with hundreds of books, toys, videotapes, kitchen utensils, tools, mattresses, furniture and clothing. Lots of clothing, from baby clothes to at least one wedding dress in pristine condition...
Cancer survivors, caregivers to celebrate life over meal (04/21/10)
Cancer survivors learn to celebrate life every day, but sometimes, a big celebration helps, too. Bedford County Relay for Life is holding a special luncheon Saturday at noon at the First Methodist Church in Shelbyville to honor cancer survivors and their caregivers...
Russia: US adoptions freeze to last for weeks (04/19/10)
MOSCOW (AP) -- All Russian adoptions to the United States will remain suspended until a new agreement is negotiated, which could take up to two months, the Kremlin's children's rights ombudsman said Monday. Russia froze U.S. adoptions last week after a boy was put on a plane back to Russia by his adoptive American mother, Torry Hansen of Shelbyville. Hansen said she "no longer wishes to parent" Justin Hansen, also known as Artyom Savelyev, who had just turned 8...
D.A.: Interview or no case (04/16/10)
The District Attorney General says that unless his office can speak to a 7-year-old boy adopted from Russia, he may not have a case against a Shelbyville woman who sent the boy back to his homeland by himself. Meanwhile, there was confusion over the issue after a Foreign Ministry spokesman in Moscow said that adoptions of Russian children by U.S. families had been suspended, even as other Russian and U.S. officials disputed this...
US-Russian adoption status unclear (04/15/10)
MOSCOW (AP) -- A Foreign Ministry spokesman said Thursday that adoptions of Russian children by U.S. families had been suspended, although other Russian and U.S. officials disputed this.... Spokesman Andrei Nesterenko said during a briefing that new adoptions by Americans are on hold pending a visit in the next few days by a U.S. delegation to reach an accord on future placement of Russian children....
Adoption case stays in 'limbo' (04/15/10)
Bedford County investigators said Wednesday they are "still digging" into the matter of a Shelbyville woman who sent a boy she adopted from Russia back to his homeland unaccompanied. Other details surrounding the case continued to emerge on the other side of the world, while in Shelbyville national media crews began dialing down their coverage...
Local investigators hope to talk with Hansens and Russian child (04/14/10)
Efforts are underway to arrange for an interview with the Russian boy who has claimed he was abused by his adoptive family in Shelbyville. District Attorney General Chuck Crawford has requested Bedford County Sheriff's Department, as well as Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, to look into the matter of an adopted child who was returned to Russia by a Shelbyville family last week...
Clinic moves to new home (04/09/10)
Community Clinic of Shelbyville & Bedford County is moving this weekend to its fourth home since opening in 2003, but organizers say they're delighted with the new surroundings and hope to be there for many years to come. The non-profit clinic, which serves the working uninsured, had been operating from the old Doctors' Building on Union Street, across from the former Bedford County Medical Center. Now, it is moving into suite 203 of the Medical Arts Building behind the old BCMC...
Shelbyville woman puts adopted Russian son on plane with note (04/09/10)
Russia's foreign minister urged Friday that child adoptions to the U.S. be frozen after a Shelbyville woman put an young Russian boy she had adopted on a one-way flight back to his homeland unaccompanied. Artyom Savelyev, who carried the adoptive name Justin Hansen, got off a flight from Washington on Thursday at a Moscow airport, the Kremlin children's rights office said Friday. The boy was listed as 7 years old by some media outlets and 8 by others....
Grandmother: Adopted boy was violent, angry (04/09/10)
NASHVILLE (AP) - The grandmother of an adopted boy who was sent back to Russia alone on an airplane says the child was violent and angry with his mother in the U.S. Nancy Hansen told The Associated Press on Friday from her home in Shelbyville that she put the child on a plane to Russia with a note from her daughter. She says the family paid a man $200 to pick the boy up at the airport and take him to the Russian Education and Science Ministry...
Getting a groove on (04/08/10)
The Friday evening spent dining and dancing at the Bell Buckle Banquet Hall last month did more than elevate moods and raise a few blisters under the dancing shoes. The event also raised about $6,000 for the Center for Family development. "I think it went very well," said Judy Smith, business manager for the Center...
Cannon gets some 'Refresh'ing news (04/04/10)
Well, for one of the local web-vote contests, the verdict is in. Sort of. Calvin Cannon, who has had an entry in Pepsi's Refresh project for the last two months, was notified April 1 that he is a finalist, and once his acceptance form is verified, he could receive a $5,000 grant...
Mother's Day cards help rebuild lives (04/02/10)
Mother's Day is little more than a month away -- May 9 -- but it's not too early to make plans, especially when you can give one thing that benefits so many people. The women of Next Step Home are creating beautiful Mother's Day cards that they will send in recognition of donations to the center...
Community Outreach Partnership plans fundraisers (03/27/10)
Community Outreach Partnership has two fund-raising events planned in the next two months, and hopes for a grand opening in June at its location at 203 Holland St. The 501(c)3 non-profit group is trying to propose itself as an umbrella for various charities, including the local Angel Food program, a gardening ministry, a ministry that distributes surplus bread, and the Halfway Home program, a transitional home for men coming out of incarceration...
'Paws For A Cause' runners benefit animals (03/21/10)
T-G, writers receive state award (03/19/10)
The Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth has honored the Times-Gazette and three of its staffers -- Mary Reeves, Brian Mosely and Sadie Fowler -- for the newspaper's coverage of children's issues. The T-G was awarded the Making Kids Count Media Award for small market print media. ...
Singer honors 'Atticus' at Paws for a Cause (03/18/10)
Country music pro Wyatt Easterling became aware of the Middle Tennessee Spay & Neuter Clinic after friend Nikki Mitchell of Waylon Jennings Music adopted one of the dogs, the victim of a recent cruelty case, from Bedford County Animal Control. Now named Abilene, the dog and Easterling are fast friends and Abby spends much of her time on Music Row with him...
Fundraiser to help ease Atwell's road to recovery (03/16/10)
It has been three months since Victoria Atwell was seriously injured in a traffic accident on Highway 231 -- an accident that took the life of her best friend, Brenda Golden. After months of being in hospitals with traumatic brain injury, the young lady, now 18, is finally home -- but she has a long, difficult road ahead of her...
Clothier's project makes prom night a little less costly (03/16/10)
Bell Buckle isn't the only Bedford County entity gathering national popularity through an Internet web vote. While the town is a top 10 finalist in Kraft Singles' "Best Single Town in America" contest, Calvin Cannon's entry for Pepsi's Refresh project is in the top 5...
Fun on the lunch menu (03/14/10)
A priest, a leprechaun and a butler walk into a room ... No, it wasn't the beginning of a bad joke -- it was the beginning of a great time. The Celebrity Waiter luncheon held at the Blue Ribbon Circle, sponsored by Heritage Medical Center Wednesday, was a major fundraiser for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life -- and a major source of fun. ...
Head Start program expands local offerings (03/07/10)
A new five-classroom Head Start child development program will start in early fall, but in the meantime, parents can apply for an in-home Head Start program that will include one educational visit per week and two large group parent-child activities each month...
Cruzin' for a Cause ride brings relief to soldiers (03/04/10)
The Tennessee Road Riders' Cruzin' for a Cause Poker Run and rally is less than a month away and plans are falling into place, said organizer Larry Brown. "I have finally got direct contact with our unit in Afghanistan that the Poker Run and Rally is supporting," he said...
Paws for a Cause returns (02/25/10)
Last year, the runners and observers at the inaugural "Paws for a Cause" 5K run had at least two things in common. They cared about the welfare of animals -- and they were freezing. The run took place on Feb. 21, to coordinate with National Spay Day, observed the following Tuesday...
Area leaders honored by Chamber (02/19/10)
Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce held its annual membership meeting and awards luncheon on Thursday, honoring four Bedford County leaders for their accomplishments and marking the transfer of power between 2009 chamber president Scott Cocanougher and 2010 president Scott Johnson...
Arts for the Heart (02/16/10)
Dancing isn't just good for a marriage, as Cliff Gerrard and his wife of 15 years, Linda, will tell you. Dancing is good for your heart -- and that comes from Dr. Cliff Gerrard, the cardiologist. "It's a moderate type of exercise that stresses your heart and lungs -- in a good way," he said. "It's an aerobic type exercise, mild to moderate."...
Swaying to a caring beat (02/12/10)
There's a dance coming up at the Fly Arts Center, which isn't unusual. This one, however, is a fundraiser for one nonprofit held by another nonprofit, which is unusual. The Bedford County Arts Council will hold a sweetheart dance at the Fly on Saturday, Feb. 20, and some of the proceeds have been dedicated to the American Heart Association...
Back Packs fill needy students over weekends (02/05/10)
There will be 30 to 40 fewer hungry children this weekend thanks to a new program developed by the Bedford County Department of Education Student Services. The Back Pack Program will send small, drawstring "cinch sacks" home with children in need, and each sack will contain at least 10 food items -- two for breakfast, four protein or meal items, and four fruit or fruit juice items...
Crowd welcomes Spay & Neuter Clinic (01/31/10)
It's just as well there weren't actually any pets at the Middle Tennessee Spay & Neuter Clinic's ribbon cutting and open house Thursday afternoon -- even a teacup chihuahua would have had a hard time finding room. Hundreds of people, including County Mayor Eugene Ray and State Sen. Jim Tracy, turned out for the event. The opening marks more than a year of hard work, dedication, donations and volunteerism to bring spaying and neutering services to low-income families...
Local Rotarians hear of group's relief efforts after massive quake (01/29/10)
Rotary Clubs in the district which includes Bedford County are stepping up to provide assistance in Haiti, but should also take lessons that could help locally in the case of a disaster, according to a speaker at Thursday's meeting of the Shelbyville Noon Rotary Club...
Cruise for a cause (01/28/10)
The Tennessee Road Riders, a local group of motorcycle enthusiasts who love to spend their free time cruising the back roads of their country on their Gold Wings and Harleys, also love their country and those who fight for it. "Some friends and fellow riders found out a lot of our troops are having a hard time getting personal care items like shaving cream or deodorant, or creature comforts like nonperishable snacks," said Larry Brown, who help found the informal group of riders years ago. ...
Clinic cuts spay, neuter costs (01/27/10)
As a veterinarian, Dr. Megan Betzelberger has worked with Michael Gregory at the Bedford County animal shelter doing a job she hates -- euthanizing healthy animals simply because they are unwanted. "I hate it," she said. "It's one thing when the animal is sick or hurting and it's the only thing you can do for it. But to have to euthanize a healthy puppy?"...
Rollin' toward a goal: Fundraiser is a success (01/24/10)
The scene at the Webb School gymnasium was uplifting, heartwarming, inspiring -- and hilarious. Hundreds turned out for the first Heritage Medical Center Rollin' Round Robin Classic Wheelchair Basketball Tournament and got to see some of the country's top teams take each other on for the tourney title...
Bedford Co. reaches out to help Haiti (01/17/10)
Last week's earthquake in Haiti, which killed as many as 45,000 to 50,000 according to Red Cross estimates, has touched communities around the world, and Bedford County is no exception. Chesley Enloe of Shelbyville has been to Haiti three times, both on business and for mission work. He first went in 1980 with concrete contractor Reggie Smith to build an orphanage on Haiti's central plateau...