EuroBronz Tanning Studio

April 1 - 15, 2009

2 Real Estate Today
4 Calendar of Events
4 Sudoku
5 Word Search
5 Mortgage Matters
6 Interior Design
6 Help! I’m Shrinkin’
Dr. Steve Olivas
7 Hickman Happenings
8 Run on Jane
9 Pets 101
Is “A Shade Above the Rest”
by Nancy W. Brown
With the first warm days of spring come thoughts of
shorts and tank tops… and trading pale winter skin for
a golden glow. EuroBronz Tanning Studio provides a
safe, controlled environment for that all-important early
base tan.
There are three locations conveniently situated around
Nashville, including the newly opened studio in the
Nashville West shopping center off Charlotte Pike, one
in Brentwood and one in Hendersonville.
EuroBronz has been in business for 14 years, making it
one of the oldest tanning salons in the Nashville area. “We
believe in safety first,” notes co-owner Mark Hemphill,
“and have always maintained the highest standards in
equipment and employee training.”
Because of this, the upscale tanning studio caters to
many country music performers, models, wrestlers and
other entertainers. “They know they can count on us,”
Hemphill says.
Employees are all SmartTan certified, meaning they’ve
taken classes and passed an exam on how the tanning
Continued on page 8

9 BOOST Your Life

10 Consumer Tips
12 Bright Spots with
Sawrie Becker
13 Green 101
13

Councilman’s Corner
Charlie Tygard Pepsi 300 race By Randy Weiler

NASCAR Nationwide Series points leader (as of April 1) Carl

14

Take Your Best Shot
Kaye Ivanoff, RN
field hopes Edwards and fellow drivers Kevin Harvick and Kyle Busch will
lead the field in the upcoming Pepsi 300.
The race will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 11, at Nashville
15 Mommy Talk Edwards flops Superspeedway in Gladeville, just off SR 840 that runs between
I-40 and I-24. The race will be broadcast on ESPN.

16 COUPONS !!! rather than flips A strong field that should include top-10 (points) drivers
Continued on page 14

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Professional classes also available. *
2
Soar confidently
Call for a tour today!
• Ages 3 - 8th grade
• SACS & AMS Accredited
• Multi-age Classes
• Foreign Language from age 3
• Art / Music / PE / Drama
• Aftercare / Summer Programs
www.montessoriacad.org
Soar academically
Real Estate Today
More Rea$on$ to be Energy Efficient
by Karen Roach
It is clear that many of us
are becoming more and more
focused on our environment
and the preservation of it
for the generations that
will follow. There are
Soar purposefully
many things that can and
should be done. No matter
how small it may seem or
how inconsequential, the cumulative effect
of everyone doing something can make a
monumental difference.
One of the basic things that each of us should
consider is right there in the most significant
investment that we have – our homes. Making
our homes more energy efficient is good for our
environment and also good for our pocketbooks.
We should assume that our energy costs are
going to continue to rise, particularly with
conversions to newer technology and possible
6021 Cloverland Drive penalties on our current providers.
Brentwood, Tennessee 37027 Now is a good time to consider upgrading
p (615)833-3610 the energy efficiency of your home. The
f (615)833-3680 Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008
included many credits to give you an incentive
to do those upgrades now. The recent Stimulus
Bill solidified those credits and increased or
extended some of them.
In general terms, current homeowners who
purchase and install specific products, such
as energy-efficient windows, insulation, doors,
roofs, and heating and cooling equipment, can
receive a tax credit for 30% of the cost, up to
$1,500 per year. Some improvements, such as
geothermal heat pumps, solar water heaters,
and solar panels, are not subject to the $1,500
limitation.
This is available for improvements made in
both 2009 and 2010. You can take the credit both
years. For new home construction, the credit is
available to the contractor which should then
pass through to the homebuyer.
You can read more about the program at
http://www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm Not
all improvements qualify as they must attain
a certain level of improved energy efficiency.
The requirements are detailed at http://www.
energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_
credits
If you plan on staying in your home, are
shopping for a home, or building a home, you
should be aware of the energy efficiency of your
residence or prospective residence. You should
explore your options to upgrade your energy
efficiency for long-term savings while the 30%
tax credit is available. It will improve the value
of your home.
If you have any questions or would like
additional information please do not hesitate
to contact me at 615.495.9934 or via email at
Karen@Avenuerealestate.com.
 3
Small Business

Tips for Keeping Track of Personal

Electronics When Traveling
It’s no secret that Americans are
constantly on the go, using technology
to help us multitask and get things done
while we are out and about. Smart
phones, PDAs and mini laptops are all
the rage - until we lose them.
We usually lose things in transit: on
buses, trains and planes, in cabs and
rental cars, shopping malls and coffee
shops. If you’ve ever lost an electronic
gadget, you know the cost, inconvenience
and security risks can become not just a
hassle but also a burden.
As many as 12,000 laptops are lost in
American airports each week, according
to a 2008 survey by the Ponemon
Institute. Even though more than half
of them are left behind at security
checkpoints, the survey says a whopping
65 to 70 percent are never returned.
Airport lost and found departments are
repositories for massive numbers of lost
electronic devices, most of which lack
any identifying information that would
help airport personnel return the items
to their owners.
So how do you avoid becoming a “loss
statistic,” especially if you travel a lot on
business with personal electronic items?
Here are a few simple tips:
1) Label your laptop or other electronic
devices with your name, address and cell
phone number. A majority of laptops
lost in airports are left at security
checkpoints where they presumably will
be found by the Transportation Security
Administration (TSA) or airport staff. If
there’s no identifying information on your
device, the authorities or even a Good
Samaritan will have no way to find you
and return your property.
Invest in a portable labeling device
and put your identifying information
on important electronic items. Brother
recently launched two portable labelers
- the PT-1230PC and PT-2430PC- that
easily plug into the USB port of your
laptop or any desktop computer and
require no software installation to use.
These P-touch labelers print up to six
lines of text and graphics on high-quality,
laminated labels durable enough for travel
as well as indoor and outdoor
use. Visit www.brother.com to
learn more.
2) Always carry smaller
electronics like cell phones and
iPods in the same place in your
handbag or carry-on. Knowing
where to look for them will not
only help you access and use them quickly,
but also help you realize sooner rather than
later if an item really is lost.
3) Charge your electronics before
you begin a trip so that you don’t have
to charge them in an airport lounge or
waiting area. Charging in a public place
increases your risk of forgetting an item,
or having it taken when you look away
for a moment. And even if you remember
to take the phone, you still risk forgetting
the charger.
4) If you carry your cell phone, mp3
player, electronic planner or other small
electronic item in your pocket, always
check the area when you get up from a
seat. Devices can easily slip out of a pocket
when you’re sitting down.
5) Take extra care -- and time, if needed
-- at airport security checkpoints to make
sure you’ve retrieved all your important
possessions, including laptops and other
electronic devices. Don’t feel you have
to rush to get out of someone else’s
way, especially if rushing will increase
your risk of forgetting something. TSA
screeners consistently give passengers
verbal reminders to check their belongings
to be sure they have everything, but you
rarely hear any of them urging passengers
to hurry up once they’re through the
screening point. They understand you may
need a few extra moments to collect your
belongings.
Courtesy of ARAcontent

DENISE FULL

CUSTOM SERVICE. PERFECT FIT.

TEL 615.225.7066
www.customfitbookkeeping.com
FAX 615.662.3641

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Advanced Certified QuickBooks® ProAdvisor

4

Free Salsa Classes Mashville Brigade

Exchange Club of Bellevue
is hosting an evening with
Dr. Jesse Register, Director of MNPS
Monday, April 13 at 6pm
Harpeth Valley Elementary School Cafeteria
Hotdogs and hamburgers will be served
Dr. Register will share with us the state of Metro
Schools, where we are and where we are headed,
the challenges and rewards. For more information
on Dr. Register, please visit:
http://www.mnps.org/Page49052.aspx
Please rsvp to Dr. Sheri Weiner at
audiomom@comcast.net or 673.6100
no later than April 10.
Need assistance with your taxes?
10:00 pm 9:30 pm
Cafe Bella - 609 Ninth Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203 Station Inn - 402 Twelfth Avenue
Come to free Salsa Classes every Friday at Cafe Bella, South, Nashville, TN
Nashville’s hottest Latin night club and restaurant. Also on The Mashville Brigade is a band
Fridays, Happy Hour from 4:00pm-8:00pm featuring music featuring Ashby Frank, Darrell
from local R&B artist, Higher Ground. Local Latin musicians, Webb, Greg Martin, Jimmy Van
Swing Latino, perform a mix a Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha- Cleve and Aaron McDarris.
cha and more following the free salsa class, and a DJ spins the Each of them are sideman with
hottest Latin mix in the city until 3:00am. prominent bluegrass acts and
----------------------------------- artists in their own right. You’ll
Tuesdays at the Cottage see a great show and hear exciting
A fun, ongoing Bible study that helps women understand bluegrass and roots music from
incredible pickers who are at
God’s message for them today. The kick-off of Tuesdays at
the Cottage will include a free continental breakfast and free the top of their game. Cost - $8/
Ticket
childcare, courtesy of Stay ‘N Play in Bellevue. Thereafter,
the drop-in child care center will offer a special $5.00/hour ----------------------------------
rate for those attending the Bible study and free child care for Tuesdays for Tots: April
first-timers. For more information, please contact Lisa Kinakin Cheekwood Botanical Gardens Regal Green Hills Stadium 16
at 615 456-2653 (www.lisakinakin.com). and Museum

AARP will be providing tax preparation on ...

Mondays through April 13
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
FiftyForward J. L. Turner Center
8101 Hwy 100, Nashville, Tennessee 37221
615-646-9622
*Please bring any tax forms you have received and
Please inform the AARP Tax Counselors on how much
you received from the Economic Stimulus Package
Call 615-646-9622 to set up an appointment.
Chance to win $5,000!
Reverse Draw & Silent Auction April 20th
Hosted by Chafin’s Barn
Sponsored by Exchange Club of Belleuve
Fundraising Event for Child Abuse Prevention
Exchange Club of Bellevue once again in partnership with
Chafin’s Barn is hosting an evening of fun fundraising
to help raise money for the prevention of child abuse. There
will be door prizes and of course, the chance to win a grand
prize of $5,000 or $2500 for second prize or $1,000 for third
April 2-5
Southern Womens Show - Nashville 2009
Nashville Convention Center; Renaissance Nashville Hotel
Event details at eventsinamerica.com
April 4
Deaf Day
9:30 am - 4:30 pm
3777 Nolensville Road, Nashville, TN 37211
For the third annual Deaf Day, Nashville Zoo will offer
presentations and programs designed to cater specifically to
the deaf and deaf /blind community. Sign language interpreters
and guides will be at various animal exhibits throughout the
Zoo, partnering with Zoo docents to deliver educational
presentations and answer guest questions. Cost: $13/Adults
$8/Children ages 3-12 $11/Seniors
----------------------------
Native Plant Sale
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum
1200 Forrest Park Drive Nashville Tennessee
Over 50 different varieties of wildflowers and native plants will
1200 Forrest Park Drive Nashville Tennessee
Event details at nowplayingnashville.com!
April 9
Cirque du Soleil: Saltimbanco
Sommet Center - 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Buy Tickets for Cirque du Soleil: Saltimbanco at Sommet
Center on 4/9/2009.
April 11
Citywide Easter Egg Hunt
1:00 pm - Richard Siegel Park, 515 Cherry Lane, Murfreesboro.
Children of all ages will love this hunt! Activities will include
age appropriate egg hunts all afternoon, carnival games and a
final visit by the Easter Bunny before he fills the baskets on
Sunday. Swap eggs for prizes at our “eggs-change” booth!
The event is free and open to all ages. For more information,
please call Thomas Laird at 867-4913.
Richard Siegel Park is located at 515
Cherry Lane, Murfreesboro,TN 37129.
April 16
HARD ROCK AMBASSADORS OF
ROCK BATTLE OF BANDS 9:00 pm
April 18
Music in the Vines: Art Four Sale
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Arrington Vineyards and Winery
6211 Patton Road, Arrington, TN 37014
Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a bottle of our wine and
take in a relaxed evening of music. Feel free to listen
casually as you catch up with friends and family here at
the rolling hillsides of Arrington Vineyards. Tables are
available on a first come, first serve basis, but feel free to
bring your own blanket or outdoor folding chairs.
April 19
Concert by Seth Glier at Bluebird Cafe - Sunday Writers
Night
8pm - Bluebird Cafe - 4104 Hillsboro Road, Nashville.
Nashville’s great acoustic Writer’s Night
Sudoku Answers
on page 14

prize. Admission is $50 and dinner will be provided be available to buy for one day only! Don’t miss out on this
opportunity to bring some new native beauties to your garden. The Hard Rock Cafe- Nashville
along with the chance to win one of many prizes such as spa
treatments, evening out at restaurants like the Palm or Sperry’s Sponsored by The Garden Club of Nashville. 100 Broadway, Nashville
or even overnight stays at some of the finest area ----------- Phone: 615-742-9900: Contact:
hotels like Opryland. Please contact Sheri Weiner, President BodyQuest Challenge Nashville_Sales@hardrock.com
of the Exchange Club for raffle tickets or more information: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Nashville_Merch@hardrock.com
615-673-6100 Adventure Science Center 8 Bands compete only 1 left standing.
800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37203 QUALIFYING EVENTS:
On your mark, get set, go! Strap on your running shoes and April 15th & 16th
High Performers… head out to the Fifth Annual Body Quest Challenge. Participate FINAL BATTLE:

Extraordinary Women!
Professional Coaching Group
Program duration: 6 weeks/6 sessions, 90 mins each session
Date/Time: Thursdays at 8am-9:30am weekly
First session to be April 23rd, 2009
Location: Avenue Bank Green Hills – Conference Room
Cost: $395
Executive Coaches are
Christie Vaughn, MBA, ACCC and Sawrie Becker, M.S.E.
For more details, visit
www.alocgroup.com/womenscoaching
or call 615.269.6004
in a one-mile BodyQuest Fun Run and come to the center to
learn all about the body. Cost: $11/Adults; $9/Children (age
3-12); $9/Senior (age 60+); $9/Military w/Active ID; $9/
College Student w/ID; Children age 2 and under free.
April 6
Dialogues on Immigration
6:30 pm
Scarritt-Bennett Center, 1008 Nineteenth Avenue South.
Financial assistance is available if needed. Cost: $25/For
all 5 evenings; Pre-registration Required. Event details at
nowplayingnashville.com!
April 7
Thursday, April 23rd
Winning band (up to 5 members) will
move onto the semi-final judging by a
Hard Rock Corporate panel. 5 Finalists
will be selected and posted online at
hardrock.com. Band who receives most
online votes wins!
GRAND PRIZE: Winning band wins a
trip to perform at Ambassadors of Rock
Hard Rock Calling at Hyde Park in
London June 27th & 28th. Trip includes
airfare, hotel & spending money!
-------------
Nashville Film Festival

Ongoing Event:
Bellevue Chamber Monthly Luncheon Meeting with
Guest Speaker
Every 3rd Thursday of the Month
Location: The Meadows
8044 Coley Davis Rd, Nashville, TN 37221
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Saturday, May 16
32nd Annual Bellevue Community Picnic
Bellevue’s Red Caboose Park
10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Special Grand Marshal is Joe Elmore, Host of the Emmy
Award Winning “Tennessee Crossroads”
--------------------------------
Nashville March for Babies
12:00 pm
Centennial Park , 2525 West End Avenue, Nashville
March for Babies, the March of Dimes largest fundraiser,
raises money to help all babies be born healthy. Sign up and
fundraise, and then come out to celebrate with thousands
of Nashville residents who care about the health of our
smallest citizens! March for Babies is a family-friendly
event - bring the kids out for a short walk followed by live
entertainment, face painting, food and drinks and other fun
activities. Stroller and pet friendly.
ONGOING EVENTS
EXCITING BEDROOM DECORATING MAKEOVER
SEMINAR NOW AVAILABLE!
Women’s groups looking for meeting programs are being
offered a free program by Bohnne Jones and Deidre Carver,
independent franchise owners of INTERIORS by Decorating
Den of Nashville.
“We call our bedroom makeover seminar, ‘Suite Dreams’,
and it’s filled with great ideas on a variety of design styles,
and options”, said Jones.
‘INTERIORS’ by Decorating Den has several different
meeting programs available on a variety of interesting
interior decorating topics. All programs are designed to
help organizations have a successful and informational
gathering.
Call 800-DEC-DENS for more information
Designer Finds raises
$2,500 for prevention of
Domestic Abuse
Designer Finds in Green Hills recently partnered with the
YWCA in March to help raise money for the YWCA Weaver
Domestic Violence Center. They offered 10% of any sale
of any donated handbags or jewelry from March 1-15th.
This fundraiser was a winner as it helped raise $2500! We
applaud Designer Finds for helping the community raise
support and awareness of this fine center.
Designer Finds is located at 2210 Crestmoor Rd in Green
Hills. You may reach them by calling 615.279.1994 or on
the web: www.designerfinds.biz
YWCA Weaver Domestic Violence Center can be reached
by contacting Abby Sasser at 615.983.5162
CAll 615.469.7334 for more details.
-----------------------------------
The Civil War and Reconstruction
Tennessee State Museum - Ongoing
Tickets: Free Admission Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm,
Sunday 1:00pm-5:00pm Tennessee State Museum 505
Deaderick Street Nashville, TN 37243
-----------------------------------
The First Tennesseans
Tennessee State Museum
Ongoing - Prehistoric Indian cultures existed in Tennessee
through four evolving periods, beginning about 15,000
years ago, peaking between 800 and 1650 A.D. with the
Mississippian people, and ending with the ascendancy of
such modern tribes as the Cherokee and Chickasaw. The
museum even has a display of bones from a mastodon that
roamed Tennessee 10,000 years ago.Tickets: Free Admission
Tennessee State Museum 505 Deaderick Street Nashville.
--------------------------------
Live Lunch at Stillwaters Cafe
Stillwaters Cafe
1207 Jefferson Street, Nashville, TN 37207
LIVE LUNCH at Stillwaters features LIVE JAZZ every
Tuesday and Thursday from noon until 2 pm for lunch
patrons.
Featuring a variety of local artists including John Birdsong,
Jerry Krahn, Chris Kent and Mel Deal .
For more information, call 329-3207.
Mortgage Matters
Good Ole Uncle Sam is giving
you $8000.00 for your first home
The new and improved 2009 Tax
Credit is Uncle Sam’s way to help
spur home sales in any town USA. A
first time buyer can qualify for this
Free Tax credit between January 1 and
November 30, 2009. This new break
can put $8000.00 free in your pocket
to apply to your new digs, because the
tax credit reduces your tax bill dollar
for dollar.
For example, if you would on average
get a tax refund $2000.00 when
you file your 2008 tax return after
purchasing a home your refund would
be $10,000.00.
Even better: Unlike last year the
$7,500.00 tax credit was a loan, but
now it’s free Money with no repayment
plan.
Last year’s tax credit was available to
first time home buyers who purchased
their home after April 8, until December
31, 2008. It was really an interest free
loan from the government. Qualifying
home buyers would get their tax credit
when they filed their 2007 returns, but
they would have to repay the credit
back $500.00 each year after for 15
years.
In 2009, First Time Home buyers
get the $8000.00 free with only one
exception; it has to be paid back only if
the buyer sells the home within 3 years
from purchase date.
You could get the $8000.00 Tax
Credit even if you have owned a home
before.
It’s not only a first time home buyer
who qualifies for the $8000.00 cash.
The law says you just can’t have owned
a home in the last 3 years. Some more
good news is that you can claim your
32nd Annual Bellevue Community Picnic
Everything is coming together for the 32nd
Annual Bellevue Community Picnic scheduled
for Saturday, May 16th, in Red Caboose Park
from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The Bellevue Chamber of Commerce is
very excited to have as our Grand Marshall
this year, Joe Elmore, Show Host & Producer.
As host of Tennessee Crossroads, Joe Elmore
has taken viewers to meet interesting people
and explore fascinating out-of-the-way places
in his home state. He has been involved with
the Emmy-award winning series since its
beginning in 1987. Joe also wears another hat,
that of producer and co-host of Horsepower
TV on Spike TV.
We are also pleased to announce one of the
5
tax credit any time before December
31, 2009 on your 2008 tax return.
The only bad news is the tax
credit does have an income limit of
$75,000.00 to $95,000.00 on a single
return or $150,000.00 to $170,000.00
on a joint return.
How do you get your Free Money?
This is how it works; qualifying
taxpayers can claim 10 percent of the
house price up $8000.00 on their 2008
tax return. Since the tax credit is dollar
for dollar you can get your free money
with your tax return as usual. If you
file your tax return electronically you
can also get a rapid refund and that is
the fastest way to get your cash.
What if you bought a home before
the $8000.00 credit?
If you have bought your home in
2009 and only got a $7500.00 tax
credit you can amend your 2008
return and get $500.00 added to your
return. The Uncle Sam will send you
an additional $500.00 bucks.
What if you have not bought a home
yet?
If you have not bought your home
yet, but plan to before November,
2009 here is what you may want to
do. Go ahead and file your 2008 return
before your home purchase. Then
after you are in your new home, file
an amendment to your tax return and
get the extra $8000.00 straight into
your pocket.
Please contact me Josh Rogers at
Tennessee Bank and Trust at or email
1-615-481-9367 jrogers@tennbank.
com to get pre-qualified for your home
purchase before you miss your free
$8000.00.
many acts to be performing on center stage:
Roux du Bayou Cajun Band. Playing authentic
Cajun/Zydeco/Swamp music native to southern
Louisiana, their high-energy style gets them
repeated engagements at a variety of quality
venues across the Southeast and Midwest. Band
leader Paul Gregoire also plays accordion as a
sub on the Grand Ole Opry with Cajun Opry
star Jimmy C. Newman.
As always, we promise to have great food,
artisans, children’s crafts, rides, fireworks, and
wonderful entertainment!
Stay tuned for more updates on the special
music, attractions, rides and programs planned
for the Picnic or log on to www.bellevuepicnic.
com for more details!
6
Interior Design
Let’s Go Green!
By Deidre Carver, Interior Designer
Interior Designer, Allied ASID
Interiors by Decorating Den
Everywhere you look someone
is talking about “going green”.
Almost every shelter magazine I
pick up is focused on green design
and those “green” shopping bags
are everywhere. But what exactly
does it mean to “go green”?
It is easier then you may think.
Most people have a preconceived
idea that living green is difficult and
beyond their abilities (or desires). You
don’t have to give up luxury to help
save the planet, just make a few simple
changes. You may actually be green
and not even know it.
Recycling is a great way to start. No,
I don’t mean your garbage, I mean your
furniture. Repurposing pieces that you
already have rather than tossing them
in a landfill is recycling. If you are
thinking about getting rid of
an old piece of furniture
you are tired of, first look
and see if it can be used
somewhere else in your
home. An old book shelf
could find a new home
in your garage to hold
flower pots and gardening
tools. An old chair in
the den maybe perfect
in your guest room. If it
doesn’t match perfectly,
reupholstering it is always
an option. Don’t be afraid
to paint an old dresser or
cut the legs off of a shelf
to make the piece perfect
for its new home. And if
you cannot find a place
for it in your home, see if
someone you know could
use it. Don’t forget there
is always Goodwill.
Painting a room used to
mean polluting your home
with hazardous vapors and
fumes. Today most paint
manufactures offer low-
VOC and zero-VOC paints
and finishes. VOC (volatile organic
compounds) can continue emitting in
your home for years after you paint.
By using a low-VOC paint you can
help clean up the air in your home
and help reduce landfill, groundwater
and ozone depleting
contaminates. An
added bonus to using
low-VOC paint is
that you can move
back into the room
the same day you
paint.
Five years ago,
most people didn’t
know what “being
green” meant. Now
we have hybrid cars
and homes that produce enough energy
on their own that they could run a small
town. You too can now be green with
these simple ideas and know that you
are helping to save our environment
one repurposed piece of furniture at
a time.
If you need help with repurposing
and redecorating your home, give
Interiors by Decorating Den a call. We
can guide you in the right direction to
taking your home green.
For your own personal decorator,
contact INTERIORS by Decorating
Den at 800-DEC-DENS or
www.decoratingden.com
Making the world more beautiful,
one room at a time.
Help! I’m Shrinkin’
Deciphering the “Doctor Code”
By Dr. Steve Olivas
At the risk of being
thrown out of the fraternity,
I figured a crash course on
the different kinds of mental
health “Doctors” would be in
order. I am often asked about
the distinctions between
these professionals because
unless you are already in
‘the biz,’ it can be very
confusing.
Doctors come in three
garden varieties, with a few
stragglers thrown in for good
measure. We’ll hit the high
points, and I’ll cover other professionals
in a later column.
The top of the food chain is occupied by
Psychiatrists, who hold a medical degree
(M.D.). These are physicians who prescribe
medication, and tend not to dabble in
therapy. Typically, a good Psychiatrist will
recommend their patients work with an
outside therapist to give their problems a
one-two punch: medication plus personal
therapy (the best course of treatment for
many mental health issues).
Next are the Psychologists. Psychologists
hold either a PsyD or a PhD, and the
difference between the two is not as subtle
as you would think.
PsyD programs are geared toward
training their students to become therapists;
i.e., the focus of their training tends to
be therapeutic technique, theory, and
practice. And while PsyDs have not been
as numerous as PhDs in the past, they have
been closing the gap. The past 10-15 years
has seen a dramatic increase in the number
of licensed PsyDs.
PhD programs were developed not only
to train students to become therapists,
but also scientists. The main thrust of
these programs fluctuates from school
to school, as some lean more heavily
toward “scientist,” and others more
toward “therapist.” As a result, there tends
to be a split in the relative strengths of
graduates.
Even among PhD Psychologists however,
there are sub-categories.
Confused yet?
Your Psychologist may hold a degree
in Clinical Psychology or Counseling
Psychology. And while these two degrees
were developed with different goals in
mind, the reality is that
they are pretty similar
nowadays.
By the way, if a
professional uses the
term “Psychologist,”
it means they have
earned a doctorate and
are licensed as such
by their state. The
word Psychologist is a
protected, legal term.
Sorta like, you can’t
legally call yourself
a “Dentist” unless
designated as such
by the state licensing
board.
Even though it may be fun from time
to time.
I will give a brief footnote here: “School
Psychologists” are able to use the term
Psychologist, but are not necessarily
doctors. They typically hold a Master’s
Degree, and are experts in testing and
evaluation of children in school settings.
The third “Doctor” category belongs to a
group whose members DO hold a doctoral
degree in Psychology, but are either in the
process of going through licensure, or are
having difficulty passing the requirements
(like a lawyer having trouble passing the
Bar Exam).Believe it or not, the procedure
for credentialing Psychologists is actually
pretty rigorous.
Finally, the stragglers. There is a subset
of “Doctors” who hold a doctorate…
but in a subject other than Psychology.
In other words, they may have a
Doctorate in Philosophy or Theology or
Counselor Education, but because of the
protected term, cannot call themselves a
Psychologist.
So, these folks will use a term such as
Counselor, Therapist, Psychotherapist,
Pastoral Counselor, or Family Therapist
(there are a few others) to describe
themselves professionally. They may be
fine therapists, and be licensed as a mental
health practitioner by the state, but their
license is at the Master’s Degree level
instead of Doctoral.
Whew… not easy stuff. I hope this helps
answer some questions about who we are.
Let me know if you have others.
You may email Steve for
questions or comments at
dr.steve.o@hotmail.com
 7

Hickman Happenings
If you think there’s nothin’
happenin’ in Hickman County….
listen up!!
By Colleen Ray
The first day of spring has come and
gone, and it’s looking good out there! My
husband even had to touch up the “front
40” with the mower! That’ll be his only
chance to do that this year since when
mowing season comes, I love spending
hours on that mower just talking with
God and enjoying His handiwork. Such
a blessing!
The Great American Clean Up is
underway and in the first 3 hours more
than 15,000 pounds of debris and
recycling was brought to the dump! This
is a great opportunity for some non-profits
to win money for their organizations,
and I applaud them for participating,
but really, 15,000 pounds in the first 3
hours???? Seems to me we could all do
a better job throughout the year picking
up after ourselves!
Dr. Cher of Chestnut Hill Ranch Bed &
Breakfast contacted me to tell me about
a luncheon they are having on April 4th.
Sponsored by the Chamber, this will be a
roast honoring Neil Jobe, a local drug and
alcohol volunteer and all proceeds will
benefit the Charlie Garner Scholarship
Fund. For more information contact
Nancy at 729-5774. She also told me that
the threatened species chicks she recently
purchased are doing well. All 26 should
be fully feathered by August.
Easter egg hunts were indoors in
Connecticut, but you had to keep count
because if you didn’t find them all, they
sure got to smelling bad after a while! Not
to worry at the annual Easter egg hunt at
the Ag Fairgrounds on April 11th at 1:00
pm. This event, sponsored by the Civitans
draws a huge crowd and it’s better to stand
behind the starting line than in front for the
start!. Bring your baskets and enjoy!
The Judy Randall Tourism workshops
will be continuing in Linden on April
16th at 8:00 am. The folks from Hickman
County who have been attending are now
going to be implementing some of these
new ideas shortly. Some tours are being
planned for The Grinder Switch Hour on
Saturdays, as well as to Tarkington’s Store
to enjoy the food and music. This is a
great way for us to showcase our talent and
culture to those outside our area. Bravo!
Speaking of talent, Clay Harris’ recent
production of “I See You” was a hit and
I can tell you first hand that he is a gifted
man. Next is “Market” April 16-18. This
is a dinner theatre and your ticket gets you
a great meal from The Farmhouse plus the special music from 1861-1865. Officer
show! Clay is also working on the Hickman Call is 1:30, Inspection 2:30 and the
Heritage Music Festival scheduled for May Skirmish at 3:00. On Sunday enjoy the
16. To participate in this, or for theatre Authentic Church Service at 10:00 am,
tickets, please call 729-5130. with Officer Call at 12:30, Inspection at
1:15 and the Skirmish at 2:00. All of these
Get ready for the big event at Riverfront
events are FREE to the public…just bring
Park on April 25-26. The Skirmish of
your lawn chairs. For more information
Centerville on the Duck River, sponsored
call 931-670-5541.
by the Sons of Confederate Veterans Col.
Jack Moore Camp #559 and the Ladies Call me at (931) 729-7068 or email me
Auxiliary of Confederate Belles is well at raynbow53@bellsouth.net to share your
on its way to being a fun-filled day for all. tidbits and tales. God Bless you and I’ll
On Saturday come see the Victorian Rose be talking to ya’ll!
Parade of Fashions Show at noon with

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8

EuroBronz Tanning Run On Jane

Studio Is “A Shade Great Gift Idea
Above the Rest” This week I’d like to write about a super
cool device (a great gift idea for those of
us with parents in their 60’s and older)
dust…until now! The Digital Film and
Slide Converter (available online and at
certain electronic stores) will take your
Continued from page 1 that my husband picked up. Now I am not 35 mm negatives (remember those?) or
going to start writing articles on cool new these precious slides and convert them
process works. Each client products and my take on them, but this into digital files where you can email,
receives an in-depth consultation was such a neat thing that I had to share! save to a CD or store on your C drive
to map out the safest and most For about fifty bucks, my husband bought all of those memories from years past.
effective tanning routine for their a Film and Slide converter. Yes…slides! You can even rework them with a photo
individual needs. If you don’t know what a slide is, I would finishing software program or edit as
“Clients can choose their level imagine that you were born after 1975 well! This product is easy to use if
of tanning based on a variety of
different beds that have different and I now feed a bit aged! My parents you are not techno challenged and well
ranges of UVA and UVB wave had one of those carousel slide holders worth the spend. This is probably one
lengths,” Hemphill explains. “We with a projector that would present their of the best gifts to get for your parents
offer high pressure facials — 100 timeless photos and memories onto a if you can’t think of anything other than
percent UVA for faces — as well large pull down screen for all of us to the same old tie or cooking gadget for a
as beds that talk to you, beds with see. If they took the time to drag all of gift! Want to make the gift even better?
built-in speakers and MP3 player the apparatus out of the attic, you can bet Convert the pictures for them! That
less that what it would normally cost in a
connections, beds with aroma therapy and
spa,” he notes. that all of us kids were going to sit and is certainly a memory that they will
beds with aqua mist.
The benefits of maintaining a tan are watch those memories with a smile and remember forever!
“The industry has really gotten high-tech
both tangible and intangible, according a lot of patience! Well what happened
in recent years.”
to the studio owner. “Studies show that to those slides and memories? They
EuroBronz offers different levels of If you have any questions for
ultraviolet light causes an increase in the
amenities within a price range of $18.88 are back in the attic where most likely Jane, please send your question
production of ‘feel good’ chemicals in the
to $68 per month. Top of the line beds are they will remain in a box and collect to RunOnJane@gmail.com!
brain called dopamine and serotonin. It also
equipped with four high-pressure facials,
increases the production of bone-building
56 160-watt canopy and bench lamps, 13
vitamin D. And we’ve had dermatologists
spaghetti lamps over the shoulders and
refer psoriasis patients for the benefits of
include aroma therapy, aqua mist and a
ultraviolet light with increased UVB.”
built-in sound system. Sessions last only
Hemphill further points out that when
10 minutes.
people feel good about themselves, other,
The studio offers spacious rooms in
less tangible benefits may be experienced.
a sleek urban atmosphere, and each is
“If someone believes they look better with a
climate-controlled so clients stay cool and
tan, they will have increased self-confidence,
comfortable during their sessions.
they’ll enjoy improved relationships,
“We have lots of clients who come in
perform better in interviews and just
over their lunch hour,” Hemphill points
generally portray a sense of well-being.”
out, “because sessions range from just 10 to
EuroBronz does not require membership
fees or contracts, and has
packages available for
purchase by the minute or
unlimited monthly visits.
“Even in a down economy,
people want to feel good
about themselves,” notes
Hemphill. “The tanning
industry was actually started
15 minutes.” Appointments may be made,
in a recession.”
but walk-ins are welcome. He says there is
The three owners of EuroBronz —
little to no wait time at the new Nashville
Hemphill, Stephanie Lannom and Sharon
West location.
Clark — are long-term players and are
EuroBronz also offers the latest
excited about opening the new Nashville
technology in ultraviolet spray tanning.
West studio. “Expenses are less, there’s a
“This offers a tan with a nice even skin
greater pool of talented employees to draw
tone and includes moisturizers for a
from, and the convenient location next to
simultaneous skin conditioning,” Hemphill
I-40 can’t be beat,” Lannom says.
explains.
EuroBronz is open seven days a week.
The studio also offers skin care lotions
Hours are from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday
to traditional tanners, and even has spa
through Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday
treatments available in the My Myst booth.
and from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday. For
“Clients can enjoy exfoliating treatments,
more information, visit them on the web at
skin firming treatments and skin revitalizing
www.eurobronztan.com or call 356-5022.
treatments in just minutes, and for much

Pets 101
Keep Your Cat
Green and Happy
Spring is on the horizon and we are all
thinking about eco-friendly ways to refresh our
homes, especially as Earth Day approaches.
If you are one of the more than 38 million cat-
owning households in the U.S. you may want
to rethink how you care for Fluffy, both to be
more environmentally friendly and to protect
your cat’s health.
“We love our pets, and just as we work to
make our lives environmentally sensible, we
can adopt ‘greener’ pet care habits to better care
for our pets’ health and environment,” says Jill
Cordes, host of America’s first broadband pet
channel www.Petstyle.com.
In addition to everyday eco-sensible habits
you might be adopting for yourself, like buying
organic food and shopping with reusable bags,
Cordes suggests following some simple pet care
practices this spring, just in time for Earth Day
on April 22:
* Cats love to clean themselves, and it’s a
good idea to keep your pet’s environment
clean and gentle. Replace traditional pet care
and cleaning products that may contain harsh
chemicals with gentle, all-natural products.
* Keep your kitty’s tummy happy as well.
Added hormones or pesticides aren’t good
for you to eat, so why do you think they’d be
good for your cat? When shopping, look for
pet food that is natural and organic.
* Eliminate odors in your spring-fresh
house and choose eco-sensible kitty litter,
like Arm & Hammer Essentials Clumping Cat
Litter. It’s made with natural biodegradable
corn fibers, which are a renewable resource
and sensible for the environment. Plus, it’s
formulated with Arm & Hammer Baking
Soda, which naturally prevents litter box
odors. Visit www.armandhammeressentials.
com/litter.aspx to learn more.
Hickman County’s
Student Athletes of the Week
Hickman County
High School
D.J. Key
A senior at Hickman County
High School, D.J. Key earned
a 3.75 GPA and has been
awarded a football scholarship
to UT Chattanooga for the fall.
He served as team captain for
both HCHS football where he
was named All-State, and for
HCHS basketball where he
scored 1000 points this year.
* Avoid creating a home for fungus and other
nasty organisms. Make sure your cat has fresh
water and food daily to eliminate potential
disease, insect or other pest infestations. Also,
filtered tap water is better for both you and
your cat because you aren’t throwing a plastic
bottle away or potentially giving your pet
contaminents from the bottle.
* Recycle household items by turning them
into play toys. Take the rope out of your
drawstring pants, and you can have kitty
jumping, leaping and pouncing for hours. Roll
up a pair of gloves into a tight ball, and she’ll
be trying to dig it out from under the couch
every time you turn your back. If you decide
to replace carpet somewhere in your house,
keep a couple of scraps and attach them to
boards for her to roll on, scratch and climb.
Just remember, snuggle time on your lap is
probably her favorite -- and most eco-friendly
-- time spent during the day.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
East Hickman County
High School
Erica Winfrey
Erica is a senior at East
Hickman County High School
and will serve as this year’s
Salutatorian having earned a
GPA of 3.96. For two years she
has played volleyball, softball
and basketball and has served
as basketball team captain for
both years. Erica was also
named to both the All-District
Tournament and All-Academic
basketball teams.
BOOST Your Life
Wheat vs White
By Jon Sexton
Most people, even those who are picky
eaters, like bread. And that’s good, because
bread, and grains in general, make up a big
part of the Food Guide Pyramid. But what
kind of bread should you choose? There are
so many choices, including white bread,
wheat bread, honey wheat bread, etc.
First, you should look at the nutritional
values of different breads when you
decide which bread to buy for your family.
Although many things are similar for
different types of bread, such as:
• Calories - usually about
40-70 calories per slice
• Total Fat - 0.5-1g
• Cholesterol - 0mg
• Sodium - 90-130mg
• Protein - 1.5-3g
• Iron - 4-8%
There can be big differences in the
amount of fiber and calcium that different
breads have. And whole wheat breads
usually have more vitamin B6, vitamin E,
magnesium, folic acid, copper, zinc, and
manganese. However, many white breads
are fortified with these vitamins.
In general, 100% whole wheat/whole
grain breads have more fiber than white
bread or other breads made with wheat
flour, although some many white breads
have almost as much fiber as many kinds
For more information or questions about this article visit
www.boostfitclub.com or call 615.662.8989.
9
of wheat bread.
A high fiber diet is recommended for
most people.
Remember that ‘wheat’ breads that do
not say that they are ‘whole wheat’ are a
mixture of enriched white flour and whole
wheat flour, and so will likely have less fiber
than whole wheat breads. ‘Whole wheat’
will be listed as the first ingredient if the
bread is made from 100% whole wheat.
But white breads often have more calcium,
especially if they are made with milk, than
wheat breads. However, many different
kinds of wheat bread are now fortified with
calcium too. Bread as an extra source of
calcium is good if your child doesn’t drink
much milk or eat other dairy products.
So what kind of bread should you
choose?
The Winner, whole-wheat bread! It offers
a large nutritional advantage over white
bread. 100% whole wheat bread fortified
with calcium would likely be the most
healthy choice.
Reading the nutrition label can help
you find healthy bread. Just be careful
when comparing labels that you check the
serving size. Some breads list 2 slices as the
serving size, while others list just 1. Since
the amount of calcium and fiber is listed
per serving size, 2g of fiber may be for 2
slices or just 1.
10
Consumer Tips
Small Front Porch
Expansion Ideas
by Dave and Mary Morris
Where did all the front porches go?
Although front porches are making a
comeback many people ask what options
they might have to expand their small porch.
First, determine your intended goal. Is it to
create more curb appeal, use it as a place
from which to watch the world go by, or to
create a private nook?
The first option, of course, is to just add-
on to the existing porch. Depending on
the design of your porch this may entail
using a professional contractor especially
if you have to extend the roof line or add
supporting columns.
Or consider adding a “patio porch”
addition. It’s relatively inexpensive
depending on the design; it looks great, and
can be landscaped for different purposes.
It can be a great do-it-yourself (DIY) or a
relatively inexpensive contractor project.
Pavers, flat stones, and bricks can be used
to create just the right look.
You can landscape it for privacy with
shrubbery to create either a private nook for
reading or a place for a small table and chairs
for socializing. Include a wide walkway
leading to the patio area and landscape it
appropriately.
Don’t have room to either side of your
existing porch? Create a larger landing
area at the bottom of the steps to maximize
your porch and create curb appeal. Place a
bench on either side of the extended landing
and landscape the walkway leading to your
expanded porch.
Small porches can be more functional and
appealing if you use a little imagination. It’s
a great DIY project for many, and will add
both space and curb appeal to your home.
Dave and Mary Morris are creators of
http://www.Front-Porch-Ideas-and-More.
com, your portal for front porch ideas
and designs. Please visit their website to
learn more about how to design, decorate,
furnish, and enjoy your porch.
Boomer’s
Five Tips for Retirement Planning
in a Challenging Economy
“What do I do now?” This
is the question that is being
asked by everyone from
baby boomers on the cusp of
retirement to 20-somethings
who have just started their
retirement savings. Today’s
volatile market has left
everyone in the dark.
“Challenging economic
times call for a return to basic
principles, like a commitment
to personal savings, seeking
professional advice to help
investors assess their personal
situations, and employing a holistic
savings.
approach to retirement planning,” advises Despite the uncertain economy,
Christine Marcks, president of Prudential remain calm. Follow the basic principle
Retirement. of investment diversification, which
continues to be an important element of
A thoughtful approach to preparing for
any financial plan. Work with a financial
retirement is important for all individuals,
no matter how far off retirement might
advisor to appropriately allocate assets
based on age, risk tolerance and years
be. Prudential has developed “The
Four Pillars of U.S. Retirement” as a
to retirement.
framework to discuss how Americans can 4. Assess -- and maybe reassess -- your
prepare for and live in retirement. retirement choices.
For most Americans, no single pillar will The current downturn may require you
be sufficient to meet retirement income to re-examine key retirement choices,
needs. Now more than ever, to save and such as when to retire or where to
plan effectively for a secure retirement, live. A tax-efficient approach to taking
individuals should consider how Social retirement income can play a big part in
Security, workplace-provided programs, how long your retirement assets will last.
personal savings, and retirement choices Understand the financial implications of
will affect their ability to live comfortably your desired lifestyle and consider which
in the future. choices make sense for your personal
situation.
Here are five back-to-basics tips to help
Americans get their retirement plans back 5. Seek advice from a financial
on track in this challenging market: professional.
1. Know the options and outcomes for If you don’t already have a financial
drawing your Social Security benefits. advisor, a trusted friend or peer can be
a good source for referrals. Schedule
If you are nearing retirement, be sure to
a time to have a conversation with a
understand your options and how you can
professional who can provide you with
maximize your Social Security benefits.
detailed advice about planning for your
Be clear about the tax implications of
future retirement.
early or delayed benefits.
“Planning for retirement now by taking
2. Continue to leverage and maximize
the back-to-basics approach is very
your workplace-provided programs.
important,” says Marcks. “In a down
If you aren’t already, enroll in economy we must all take a realistic
your workplace-sponsored defined position on how different areas of our
contribution plan --401(k), 403(b), etc. -- retirement are affected in order to have
if one is available. You should contribute a bright financial future.”
at least enough to get the full benefit of
Take the first step today and visit www.
a sponsor match. This is not the time to
prudential.com.
“leave money on the table.”
Prudential Retirement is a Prudential
Also consider in-plan investment
Financial business. Retirement products
options, such as target-date funds,
and services are provided by Prudential
automatic asset-allocation programs, and
Retirement Insurance and Annuity
even guarantee-based vehicles that can
Company, Hartford, Conn., or its
protect savings and income and offer a
affiliates.
guaranteed retirement paycheck.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
3. Make the most of your personal

Medicare and TRICARE
“TRICARE is a regionally managed health
care program for active duty and retired
members of the uniformed services, their
families, and survivors. TRICARE brings
together the health care resources of the
uniformed services and civilian health care
professionals to provide better access and high
quality health care service.” www.ssa.gov
For those of you who qualify, TRICARE
is an excellent health benefit for our military
men and women. When you become eligible
for Medicare, you do not have to forfeit
your TRICARE nor do you have to decline
Medicare. The two federal programs will
coordinate benefits to provide you with full
health care coverage.
When you turn 65 years old or you have
been permanently disabled on Social Security
Disability benefits for 24 months, you most
likely will become eligible for Medicare. If
you previously had TRICARE as your health
care coverage, your Medicare will become
“primary” and TRICARE secondary. This
means that Medicare will cover your health
care services first and TRICARE will cover
after Medicare pays. Medicare co-payments
and deductibles will be covered by TRICARE.
The TRICARE beneficiary who also has
Medicare should not be required to pay any
medical bills.
Although Medicare now offers prescription
plans through private companies, it is not
necessary nor is it advisable for TRICARE
11
recipients to enroll into one of these plans.
TRICARE continues to offer drug coverage
which is currently better than any Medicare
prescription plan.
Medicare Advantage plans are also available
for those on TRICARE and Medicare.
Medicare Advantage, formerly known as
Medicare + Choice, are alternative plans to
the Original Medicare offered through private
insurance companies. Plan types include
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization),
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization),
and PFFS (Private Fee For Service). Some
of these plans may offer extra benefits like
fitness center memberships, annual check ups,
limited dental or vision coverage. However,
these plans require that its enrollees use
medical providers from specific networks
and HMOs require referrals for specialty
care. Consider these factors carefully before
switching from Original Medicare. You still
have full coverage with Original Medicare
and TRICARE.
Those who have served our country deserve
the best health care possible. Understanding
your benefit options and utilizing is important
to all of us who are indebted to your service.
Mary Beth Best
President & Program Manager
Voice, Inc. - P.O. Box 306
Pleasant View, TN 37146
www.myvoiceinc.com - 615-772-4288
12
All ‘Bout Staging
Welcome to our Ongoing Series:
Staging-The Art and Science of preparing a House for Sale
Staging the Heart
of the Home
“Turn a Look-See... into a Must-Have”
By Carol R Bass
Staging a home involves analyzing
every place a potential buyer will
explore. Where will they explore?
The answer is, everywhere. There are
no spaces off limits when people are
looking a house to purchase. Today,
let us focus on “the heart of the home.”
The Kitchen is where most of our lives
unfold. We eat there, share there, do
homework there, and so much more.
Here are a few items you need to address
when staging the kitchen.
1. It can’t look used and abused. We all
use our kitchens everyday several times
a day. However when we are selling our
house it has to look like no one uses the
kitchen. Great excuse to no cook huh?
So put away the blenders, dutch ovens,
mixers, large and small appliances need
to be put away. The coffee maker is the
only exception.
2. Improved and updated. Remember
selling your home is part competition
and part seduction. If the competition
has granite and you don’t ,and the price
is the same, who will win? Remove
dated wallpaper. Take down all those
trivets or Jello molds hanging on the
soffit, less is more. Remove ruffled
curtains or top treatments with cows,
ducks, fruit, and anything that dates
the space.
3. Pantries and Cabinets-Do the
cabinets appear dated? Paint or replace
hardware. Once you make sure the
exterior looks good, it is time to analyze
the interior. The cabinets must appear
organized and spacious. There should be
nothing on the floor of the pantry. Store
mops and brooms elsewhere. Think
model home.
4. Clean, Clean, Clean. There is
that word again. But kitchens and
bathrooms are where the lack of cleaning
really shows up. Clean the oven, stove
top, and yes even the inside of the
refrigerator. They will open it up and
say, “Wonder if they will consider
selling the refrigerator?”
5. Appeal to all the Senses. Add charm
and appeal to a kitchen too? Remember,
this room is the heart of the home, and
you want it to feel like a great gathering
space.
• Use a small, decorative lamp under
the counter to add some soft lighting.
• Add herbs in the kitchen window for
a gourmet feel
• Lay fresh tea towels off to the side
of the sink
• Set the breakfast counter with pretty
dishes
• Add beautiful fresh fruit or flowers
• Add the smell of home, bake cookies
right before a showing.
Carol Bass is a Master Professional
Trainer with The Society of Decorating
Professionals (www.TheSDP.com ) and
a co-founder of One Day Decorating.
She teaches classes across the United
States to both the Professional and DIY
Decorator. Watch locally for Carol’s
exciting “Addicted to Decorating” DIY
days. A fun day filled with decorating
ideas, tips, and tricks. Visit Carol’s
sites at: www.onedaydecorating.com or
www.addictedtodecorating.com
Carol Bass
is a Master
P ro f e s s i o n a l
Tr a i n e r w i t h
The Society
of Decorating
Professionals
(www.TheSDP.
com ) and the co-
founder of One
Day Decorating.
Carol teaches classes across the United
States to both the Professional and DIY
Decorator. Whether you want to learn
how to create beautiful spaces or turn
your passion for decorating into a
successful business, Carol’s classes are
for you. For more information, call
Carol at 888-800-7507 or visit www.
onedaydecorating2.com.
Bright Spots
A Place to Find Informational and Inspiration For Your Life
“Hope Springs Eternal”
By Sawrie Becker, M.S.E.
Personal Life Coach
SBB Life Coaching
It is officially spring (at least according to
the calendar) and with spring little signs of
hope within the world of nature seem to be
everywhere. The buttercups have bloomed
along with the beautiful pear trees and the
ground is beginning to be covered once
again with the bright green blades of grass.
These are sure signs that no matter what is
happening in our own personal lives or in
the current economic picture, the cycles of
nature will go on – no matter what!
As we so often turn to nature for comfort
and answers in our lives, spring offers a
wonderful opportunity for us to focus on and
find signs of hope that can shore us up and
keep us going during uncertain or difficult
times. Emily Dickenson once wrote:
days. Whatever you hope for, do not despair,
‘”Hope” is the thing with feathers – that know that it is on the way to you. All you
perches in the soul- and sings the tune have to do is look outside the window – signs
without the words – and never stops – at of hope are everywhere. Today, allow
all.” yourself the luxury of taking a walk (even
Did you know that according to Greek it if is just to the mailbox). On your way be
mythology, when Pandora opened Pandora’s intentional about identifying all of the signs
of hope that nature provides. Play a game
Box she let out all the evils except one: hope.
with yourself or engage a friend or your child
Apparently, the Greeks considered hope to
be as dangerous as all the world’s evils. But to keep count of how many signs of hope you
without hope to accompany all their troubles, can identify. You may be surprised - at the
very least you will feel better and perhaps a
humanity was filled with despair. It was a
great relief when Pandora revisited her box little more hopeful.
and let out hope as well Celebrate spring and the eternal hope
it provides. Be inspired by the words of
It is hard to imagine our world without
hope—the feeling that what is wanted can be Monroe Forester who reminds us that
-“Hope is always available to us. When
had or that events will turn out for the best.
For when one does lose hope, anxiety and we feel defeated, we need only take a
depression can result and indeed sometimes deep breath and say, “Yes,” and hope will
our own will to live gives way. Whether we reappear. Hope does spring eternal!
hope passively and wish for something to
happen or we are active with our hope and If you would like to learn more about
plan a course of action— hope is eternal, what life coaching can bring to your life,
everlasting and live giving. contact Sawrie at 352-0978, email at
Sawrie@sbblifecoaching.net or visit www.
What are you hoping for these days—a sbblifecoaching.net.
new job, a new love or perhaps just better

Councilman’s Corner
By Charlie Tygard
L a s t w e e k , Ta x
Assessor George Rooker
gave a presentation to
the Council’s Budget
& Finance Committee
(Mr. Rooker will also be
speaking to the Bellevue
Exchange Club this week
on the same topic). To
many, the news was startling! Property
values in Davidson County have risen
on the average of 15% in the last four
years. This news came as a shock to
many considering the “down” real estate
market we are all hearing about and
perhaps personally experiencing.
A little background on this subject
is appropriate before getting into the
facts about the 22nd and 35th districts –
primarily the Bellevue area. The State of
Tennessee mandates reappraisals every
6 years, although Metro has settled into
a four year cycle. Reappraisals are done
to restore equity in property values, as
not all areas in town experience the
same appreciation rates. Without this
process, property owners in a depressed
area would pay more than their fair
share of the tax burden. So over the last
18 months, dozens of appraisers have
visited neighborhoods and analyzed
sales and market data to establish a
market price as of 1-1-09. The figure that
will soon be supplied to property owners
is weighed more heavily to the most
recent sales, which hopefully reflect the
true property value today.
A second major point for homeowners
to realize is that these figures reflect the
increase (or decrease) in value from
four years ago. The years 2005-06-07
reflect real estate boom years, while
the last several years reflect more of a
decline. The key is whether the decline
is greater than the boom or vice versa.
For example, the median residential
sales price in 2005 was $154,000 – in
April, 2006 it was $172,900 – in June,
2007 it was $196,000 – in Feb, 2009 (last
month) it was $160,000 (figures supplied
by the Greater Nashville Association of
Realtors). Your opinion of your home
price is therefore based on your point
of reference.
The good news for Bellevue residents
(if you are taking the viewpoint of
paying property taxes) is that our
property values have grown less than the
citywide average (bad if you are taking
the viewpoint of your net wealth). As
I mentioned earlier, real estate
values increased an average of
about 15% citywide – in the 22nd
District (the “heart” of Bellevue
such as River Plantation, Cross
Timbers, etc) the growth is 10.4%
and in the 35th District (the
“outlying areas of Bellevue,
such as South Harpeth, Pasquo,
Linton, the Poplar Creek Road
area, River Road, etc) the growth
is 9.6%. The areas of highest
gain, not surprisingly, are downtown
(reflecting the new condo’s), East
Nashville (reflecting the revitalization
of the historic areas) and the Vanderbilt
areas. These areas show 30% + increases
in value.
So what does this all mean on what
each property owner will pay in property
taxes? The answer to that will not be
known for a while until the certified
tax rate is adopted. Since the city
cannot use a reappraisal as a means
to increase revenues, the property tax
rate will drop from the current levels
of $4.04 General Services rate (most
of Bellevue) and $4.69 Urban Services
rate. In 2005, the certified rate drop
from $4.58 USD to $4.02. However,
after the Metro Council approved Mayor
Purcell’s tax increase, the final rate
rose to its’ current level of $4.69. This
posed what I have often referred to as
the “double whammy” – a reappraisal
process that creates additional property
tax for a homeowner living in an area
whose property increased more than
the citywide average, along with an
additional tax burden created by the
Mayor/Council increasing the property
tax above the certified rate. That will be
a topic for a future column.
My final point of emphasis is that any
citizen who feels that the value placed
upon their home is incorrect based on
factual data, such as sales of comparable
homes, has the right to appeal the
value. This can be done online or by
appointment at the Assessor’s office
but must be filed before the June 19th
deadline.
As always, please feel free to contact
me at P. O. Box 210945, Nashville
37221 or 256-7146 (work) or 243-3295
(cell) if I can be of service.
As always, please feel free to contact
me at P. O. Box 210945, Nashville 37221
or 256-7146 (work) or 243-3295 (cell) if I
can be of service.
Green 101
Green Proof Your
Home for Baby - Part 1
In about five weeks I’m due to give
birth to our third child. So as you can
imagine, I’ve been doing quite a bit of
nesting lately. We’ve been busy turning
my former office into an eco-friendly and
non-toxic nursery. I’ve also been doing
a lot of research to ensure that we have
all of the newborn essentials ready and
have looked into what “green” choices
are available.
With our boys Andrew (4 1/2) and
Jonah (2 1/2) we used disposable diapers,
wipes and plastic bottles (after I had
finished breast feeding). In these days
of heightened environmental awareness,
we are coming at it from a different
vantage point and want to make sure we
are making our children’s world as safe
as we can.
Here are just some of the greener
choices we are adopting this time: Cloth
Diapers/Wipes instead of Disposables.
I’ve read a lot of articles debating the
environmental impact of disposables vs.
cloth, and it seems that many studies are
still divided. The general statistic is that
each baby will use approx 6,000 diapers
before toilet training, and that disposable
diapers take 200-500 years to decompose
(we think). On the other side, washing
cloth diapers takes water, energy, and
cleaning chemicals - oh and of course
time.
A lot of what is happening in the
environmental movement today isn’t
NEW! We are looking back to what our
grandparents and great-grandparents did
out of necessity and finding that it worked.
Not only were those practices better for
the environment, they were also much
more cost efficient.
Cloth diapers aren’t what they used to
be - no more diaper pins! Today’s cloth
diapers are designed with Velcro or snap
closures for convenience, and are made
from eco-friendly materials such as hemp,
bamboo, or organic cotton.
I’ve also looked into biodegradable
diapers. Most are made with plant-
based plastics/bioplastics, and are non-
petroleum based and chlorine free. The
packaging also states that these diapers
are compostable. The problem is that
these, along with most biodegradable
bioplastic products, will only biodegrade
under the “right” conditions. If they go
13
into a landfill they will NOT compost and
they will NOT compost in your backyard
composter. They will only biodegrade in
an industrial composting environment -
which Nashville does not have.
Interesting Stats from Planet Green
(http://planetgreen.discovery.com/go-
green/green-baby):
6000: The number of diapers the average
baby uses before potty training.
- 200 to 500: Years it takes petroleum-
based disposable diapers to decompose.
- 49 million: The number of disposable
diapers used per day in the United States;
Australia uses 2.2 million, Japan uses 6.7
million, and the U.K. uses 9 million.
- 53 percent: A home-washed cloth
diaper has only 53 percent of the ecological
footprint of disposables, and a diaper
laundry service has a mere 37 percent of
that footprint.
So for us the choice is easy - We are
planning to use a cloth diaper service.
Not only will it save us time from having
to wash the diapers, we also won’t have
to worry about running out of them and
will save on multiple trips to the store
to buy more. If you’re looking to save
money, buying and washing your own
cloth diapers is the way to go.
Here are some links to good cloth diaper
resources:
- Cotton Babies:
http://www.cottonbabies.com
- Imse Vimse: www.imsevimse.us
And, here are some links to local diaper
services and stores:
- Smile Mommy - http://www.
smilemommy.com/index.php
- The Changing Times: http://www.a-and-
d-enterprises.com/TheChangingTimes/
- The Green Wagon:
http://www.greenwagonnashville.com
Next issue, in Part 2 of the series, I will
discuss breastfeeding and plastic vs glass
bottles.
Tara Biller is founder and owner
of http://www.greenproofyourhome.
com, a residential consulting service
designed to outline the simple steps
of going green. A graduate of Boston
University, Tara previously spent 14
years specializing in public relations
for high-tech companies.. Please direct
questions or comments to tbiller@
greenproofyourhome.com
14
Pepsi 300 race field hopes
Edwards flops rather than flips
Continued from page 1
Brendan Gaughan, David Ragan, Jason
Leffler and Brian Vickers will chase
Edwards and try to keep him from one
of his patented back flips after winning
a race.
On the weekend when NASCAR does
not race on Easter Sunday, officials at
Nashville Superspeedway all pulling out
all the stops to attract fans of all ages.
Those who purchased a season pass
have a special perk in that it will be
“all access.” Officials of the Dover
Motorsports Inc.-owned track want
fans to enjoy a pre-race opportunity to
access areas of the infield that have been
restricted in the past, said track Vice
President and General Manager Cliff
Hawks.”
The “all access” will let fans be
allowed in the garage and pit road before
the race; have access to the NASCAR
driver’s meeting; walk along the front
stretch with cars staged, in qualifying
order, giving them a photo opportunity;
the prerace driver introductions will
include drivers being introduced while
they walk down through the grandstands
and onto the track; and drivers will get
into their cars on the front stretch and
await the “gentlemen, start your engines”
command.
An Easer egg hunt, sponsored by
Middle Tennessee Electric, will start
at 11 a.m. on the plaza in front of the
ticket/will call window. Three age groups
(5-under, 6-9 and 10-12) will participate.
Sean Dozier, Nashville Superspeedway’s
media director, said gold and silver
eggs will be in each age group, and the
sponsor’s prizes always are “top quality.”
Registration to participate begins at 10
a.m.
Following the race and winner’s
various presentations, country music
performers Emerson Drive will provide
a concert.
Here’s the day’s schedule of events: 9
a.m. — Parking lots and gates open; 10
a.m. — NASCAR Nationwide Series
qualifying and registration for Easter
egg hunt; 11 a.m. — Easter egg hunt
sponsored by Middle Tennessee Electric;
2 p.m. — Prerace and driver introductions;
3 p.m. — NASCAR Nationwide Series
Pepsi 300; TBA — Postrace concert by
Emerson Drive.
Sounds season arrives
The sound made when a 90-plus mph
fastball and a wooden bat mean that
pro baseball season has arrived at 534
Chestnut St., home of the Nashville
Sounds of the Pacific Coast League.
The Sounds begin their 142-game
season at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 9,
when New Orleans arrives for a four-
game series. Oklahoma City visits April
13-16.
In December, the parent Milwaukee
Brewers named Don Money, 61, to coach
the Triple-A Sounds, who are coming
together as a unit during spring training.
He’s the 22nd manager in the 32-year
history of the Sounds.
Among the Brewers’ top prospects
(according
to Baseball
America)
in 2009 are
shortstop
A l c i d e s
Escobar, third
baseman Mat
Gamel and
catcher/third
baseman Brett Lawrie. Milwaukee’s top
pitching prospect is righthander Jeremy
Jeffress.
Odds ’n ends
• Hats off to Coach Barry Trotz and his
Nashville Predators for their great stretch
run to try to make the elite eight Western
Conference teams in the Stanley Cup
Playoffs. The Preds have withstood a rash
of late-season injuries, and won or earned
points for key victories or overtime
losses. Goalie Pekka Rinne has been
given solid support by his teammates.
• How about the crowd that showed
up April 1 at LP Field for the U.S. vs.
Trinidad & Tobago FIFA World Cup
qualifying match? Years ago, you never
would’ve thought soccer would have
caught on like it has.
Puzzle Solution
Take your best Shot!
Sexually Transmitted
Diseases Reaching an All
Time High Across All Ages
By Kaye Ivanoff, R.N.
SHOTS, etc.
The Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention
(CDC) estimates that
almost 19 million
new cases of sexually
transmitted diseases
(STD’s) occur each year,
and almost half of those
are among 15 to 24 year-olds. The
other half of these new infections occur
in those persons ages 25 to 80. Add
this number of new cases to the ones
already infected and you will see that
a huge percentage of Americans either
have or have had some form of sexually
transmitted disease. These numbers are
staggering, considering the long-term
effects these STD’s have on the general
health, reproductive ability and possibly
even the lifespan of those infected.
One of the fastest growing groups
for STD’s is in the 50-80 age range.
This rapid growth in infection has been
attributed to the increase in unprotected
sex because fear of pregnancy is not
at the forefront of baby-boomers or
senior American’s minds. The advent
of Viagra and other sexual performance
enhancers has also given many older
Americans greater drive and desire for
experimentation with multiple partners,
thus increasing the number of infections
in men and women.
Sexually transmitted diseases do
not infect just those people who are
promiscuous or who participate in
alternative sexual habits. A person of
any age can be infected with a life-
changing STD even on their first sexual
encounter that may or may not include
sexual intercourse. Men who have sex
with men are at an even increased risk
because some STD’s that occur more
frequently in this population increase the
risk of acquiring HIV.
There are multiple infections that are
considered to be sexually transmitted
and are caused either by a viral infection
or a bacterial infection. Infections or
diseases that are classified as STD’s
include bacterial vaginosis, Chlamydia,
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV),
gonorrhea, genital herpes, HPV/genital
warts, syphilis, trichomoniasis and HIV.
Some of these diseases have definite
symptoms while others are more insidious
and may show no physical symptoms at
all until irreversible damage is
done.
Although public health efforts
were once effective in nearly
eliminating syphilis, gonorrhea
and Chlamydia from being
public health threats, these
diseases began re-emerging in
2000 to 2001 and have increased
steadily and significantly over
the past few years. Men who
engage in homosexual practices,
having sex with other men, account for a
significant percentage of cases of syphilis
and Chlamydia. Those who are bisexual
contribute to widespread infection of both
men and women.
All STD’s are preventable with various
methods and precautions practiced by
everyone who engages in sexual activity.
The use of condoms is helpful but not
100% effective in preventing STD’s and
should not be used for this purpose. The
surest way to avoid transmission of STD’s
is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to
be in a long-term mutually monogamous
relationship with a partner who has been
tested and is known to be uninfected.
Some STD’s can be effectively prevented
through pre-exposure vaccination. Several
vaccines are currently under development
or are undergoing clinical trials for certain
STDs, including those for HIV/AIDS,
genital herpes and Hepatitis C. However,
the only vaccines currently available to
prevent sexually transmitted diseases
are for the prevention of Hepatitis A,
Hepatitis B and Human Papilloma Virus
infection which may cause genital warts
or cervical cancer in girls and women and
penile cancer in boys and men.
Read more detailed information about
all of these sexually transmitted diseases,
signs and symptoms, treatments and your
responsibilities if you are infected at
http://www.cdc.gov/std. Vaccine specific
information can be accessed at www.
SHOTSetc.com on the Vaccines and
Services page.
Kaye Ivanoff, RN is President and
CEO of SHOTS, etc., a Nashville-based
provider of vaccines and other wellness
services that keep children, adolescents
and adults healthy for work or school
requirements, world travel and everyday
life! Walk-in service is available at 7648
Hwy 70 So. suite 15 at I40 exit 196. Call
615.469.7413 or visit www.SHOTSetc.
com for details of services and pricing.

Mommy Talk
Thoughts from Moms....regarding Motherhood & Work
Celebrating Spring! It’s Easy in a Recession!
Susan Douglas, MD & Anne Alexander
Vincent, Licensed Minister of Pastoral
Counseling
When my children were very small
and I stayed home with them, my friends
and sisters always said that I should have
been a kindergarten teacher because I
never missed a holiday or season. There
was always some kind of table decoration
or bulletin board or homemade wreath
inviting them through the door. In my
“Mommy Fantasy Dream House”, I would
have a separate closet for Valentines,
Christmas, Easter, Halloween, well – you
get the idea. Not because I’m that on top
of it all (after all, I am a Mom and I’m not
perfect) but because I love the change, the
color, and the creativity.
This spring of 2009 may very well
be different for many of you due to the
economic climate. I’ve met with many
families over the past couple of weeks
who have had drastically different spring
breaks this year. This has been the year
of the “stay-cation” for many moms who
may have had to piece together child
care at extra expense or are stressed with
everyone home and kids bored by the end
of the week.
Celebrating this spring can be a doorway
to cultivating your awareness and the
developing senses of your children. Just
walking around the yard or down the
street together with bikes, the dogs, or
strollers noticing the bright yellow of the
forsythia, the pink of the cherry trees, the
snowy white of the Bradford pears can be
a delightful experience.
If you are accustomed to purchasing new
spring clothes for the family and cannot do
so this year, look into consignment sales,
clothing swaps with other moms, and low
cost updates. A package of fresh white
tank tops or tshirts and a couple of colorful
cotton scarves can freshen up your casual
outfits. Kids love a bright new umbrella or
pair of plastic rainboots in their favorite
color – perhaps to model on those family
walks.
Celebrating spring can also mean a first
grill-out or potluck for family and friends.
Last spring when whittling my budget
due to some medical expenses, I had a
well attended potluck lunch (yes, with
my spring wreath on the door). Several
people have asked if I’ll do it again this
year, and interestingly enough, they
remember the coral, lime, and turquoise
paper napkins and plates as much as the
ribs and cheesecake. Color is such a mood
booster for people!
A good little idea: buy a roll of white
butcher paper and let your kids make spring
placemats for the table. It can be a great
way to keep them busy while you fix the
meal! Another one: Single buds or blooms
Anne Alexander Vincent is in private
practice, treats individuals, couples,
families & can be reached at
(615) 354-1395
Susan Douglas, MD practices psychiatry
& treats adults on an outpatient basis
at Middle TN Psychiatric Clinic 2011
Ashwood Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212
(615) 383-4694
from the yard or flowers cut from a $ 2.99
spray can float in a glass dish or adorn several
small vases grouped together. Allowing your
child to plant his or her own pot of herb seeds
or to make and fill a birdfeeder is a simple
way to recycle old materials and experience a
return to a simpler, more organic spring.
It is often said that life is not what happens
to us but how we respond to those events.
Making sure that we set a tone of celebration
and reverence for new life in nature is part
of being a Mom that we can control. And in
this recession, healthy control where we can
have it is key.
By the way, while writing this article, my
now college-age son who decided to save his
money and not go to Florida on Spring Break
has discovered a new bird nest in our spring
wreath. Sometimes the small discoveries and
pleasures mean the most!
Just we marvel at the life force pushing
out tender green shoots on the trees, we must
treasure and encourage our own growth.
Challenge yourself as a perfectly imperfect
Mom to color outside the lines, splash in rain
puddles, make a new friend, create a new dish
with those leftovers. There is only one YOU
in this magnificent universe so celebrate this
fresh new season and blossom where you are
and where you can!
A Favorite
Quote
And then the day came when the
risk to remain tight in a bud was
more painful than the risk it took to
blossom.” Anais Nin
15
From the School Board
Why consider charters?
Forget everything you thought you knew per year. These were students who could not
about charter schools. The old laws, and the read despite never having received a failing
old debates simply don’t apply anymore. It’s grade in reading throughout elementary
time for charter schools 2.0. school. In the no excuses schools, these
The traditional arguments for charter schools students are identified and taught not turned
involve competition alone, but zero-sum away or passed along. In the no excuses
competition creates as many losers as winners. charter schools, this kind of story is the rule,
Charter schools 2.0 is about specialization and not the exception.
division of labor. As a community we share a Unsuccessful charter schools can be
common responsibility to provide an excellent reconstituted or closed easily now that internal
education for every child. Traditional schools MNPS operating procedures are being revised
will always continue to serve the students based on the study and recommendations of
they serve well, but charter schools are public the Charter School Working Group.
schools, too, and they offer flexibility, niche Opening enrollment options reduces student
experience, and specialization that will enable mobility, increases family participation, and
them to help where traditional schools fall enriches diversity. MNPS has moved to open
short. enrollment throughout its system in order to
If we embrace the collaborative effort behind improve academic achievement, but state law
charters 2.0, our established schools will also prevents MNPS from including its three highly
benefit from adopting those successful and successful charter schools in that effort.
innovative practices at charter schools so
Enrollment restrictions and caps need to
that all students are better served. Hostile, go. They limit local options in the name
divisive, or merely indifferent relationships of protecting local monopolies. Local
will not stop charters from emerging; they will Education Administrations need clear and
only guarantee that all schools are of lower effective policies for recruiting, assessing,
quality than they could be working effectively and approving the schools they need to serve
together.
the students they are failing, and MNPS is
Nationwide there are more students in revising its policies right now to meet this
charter schools than in private schools, and goal, but we need the state’s help to make it
many large-scale operators demonstrate really work.
consistent, replicable, high quality results It is time to end outdated arguments that
for their students with the same admission get in the way of teaching and learning that
requirements that their traditional public works for our children. We continue to fail
school counterparts employ. These “no
too many of our students. If there is a charter
excuses” schools deliver “whatever it takes” school that could be serving their needs now,
to make sure that even the least-prepared, most
but old laws and
challenged students not only exceed adequate old attitudes make
progress every year but graduate from high that less likely, then
school and college.
we need to change
Successful charter schools will help MNPS those now for the
to meet our academic achievement goals for sake of our kids.
our children and the future of Nashville. I We can’t keep
recently visited a charter high school where making them wait.
students who entered 9th grade functionally
illiterate were advancing over two grade levels
Alan Coverstone is our newly elected school board member. You can
email him at alan.coverstone@gmail.com for questions.