Sylvan Park Neighborhood Association

West End Middle School chili cook-off Friday (Feburary 3)

2012-01-30T15:56:00.003-06:00

West End Middle School will hold its third annual chili cook-off this Friday (February 3) at 5:30 p.m. Proceeds from the cook-off will benefit the school's outdoor classroom and garden project. See the following link for details: http://t.co/jEvGXweQ.

SPNA elections and meeting Monday (January 9)

2012-01-03T21:39:00.001-06:00

SPNA will hold its annual elections and its monthly membership meeting next Monday, January 9, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Please join us for this important meeting.Sgt. Twana Chick, the new community liaison for the west police precinct, will also speak to members at the meeting. Hope to see you there.

SPNA meeting Monday at Cohn School (Nov. 14)

2011-11-11T14:06:00.001-06:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, November 14, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

2011-10-20T11:53:00.002-05:00

The West End Middle School PTSO will hold a Giant Yard Sale fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Anyone interested in supporting the cause by donating items for the sale may do so beginning on Saturday, Oct. 22. Please see the event flier for further details.

SPNA membership meeting at McCabe Community Center Monday (October 10)

2011-10-06T22:31:00.003-05:00

SPNAwill hold its monthly membership meeting this Monday, October10, at 7 p.m. at the McCabe Community Center (101 46th AvenueNorth). Topics for discussion will include the upcoming Sylvan Park Fall Fest,parking issues on 54th Avenue North, and theMurphy Road railroad bridge.

Charles Jobe,environmental coordinator for the State of Tennessee, will discuss theimportance of protecting homes against radon.

Hope to see youthere!

SPNA membership meeting at McCabe Community Center Monday (Sept. 12)

2011-09-11T21:46:00.002-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, September 12, at 7 p.m. at the new McCabe Community Center at 101 46th Avenue North. Hope to see you there!

Fall SPNA newsletter now available

2011-08-28T13:10:00.001-05:00

The latest issue of the SPNA Neighborhood Journal is now available. The newsletter is being delivered to neighborhood homes this week.

SPNA membership meeting tomorrow (August 8)

2011-08-07T22:28:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting tomorrow, August 8, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

2011 SPNA Home Tour

2011-07-14T22:13:00.006-05:00

The Sylvan Park Neighborhood Association will hold its 2011 Home Tour on Saturday, September 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The tour will feature several neighborhood homes in a range of styles and a few of Sylvan Park’s signature civic and religious buildings. Refreshments, crafts and artisan treats will all be on sale.

Tour tickets are available now for $12 per person or for $15 the day of the event. Tickets may be purchased at McCabe Community Center, Sylvan Park School and St. Ann's Church. Please see below for additional ways to support the tour.

SPNA Home Tour Patrons

This year the tour will be supported financially by tour patrons, so that all tour revenues will go directly to support SPNA. Donations generated by the tour fund neighborhood events such as SPNA’s Fourth of July parade, neighborhood socials and holiday party and neighborhood projects such as clean-ups and tree plantings. Tour funds also support organizations and events including McCabe Park Little League, the Sylvan Park School Parent-Teacher Organization, the Richland Creek Run and Greenways for Nashville.

Interested residents and other friends of SPNA are invited to become patrons of the tour for $100. In exchange for their generosity, patrons receive two tour tickets and recognition in the tour booklet. Patrons will also be invited to attend a special patron’s party celebrating the tour.

SPNA Home Tour Advertising

This year’s full-color tour booklet will provide excellent opportunities to reach Sylvan Park residents, tour guests and interested parties across West Nashville. In past years more than 1,500 people have participated in the tour.

Ad placements are available for the 5.5 X 8 inch booklet in the following sizes: a quarter-page ad for $100, a half-page ad for $175, and a full page ad for $250. Graphic design services are available for $50 as well. Email Margaret Holleman at margaretholleman@yahoo.com to reserve space in the booklet.

Volunteers Needed

We also need volunteers! We need docents to assist each house host in managing the flow of visitors, we need ticket sellers (the two Saturdays before the Tour and the day of), and we need party planners and organizers for the tour after-party. If none of these jobs appeal to you, but you’d still like to help, we can still use your help. Email Margaret Holleman at the address listed above if you would like to assist in any capacity.

Many thanks to the 2011 SPNA Home Tour committee members: Margaret Holleman, Susan Rodgers, Yvonne Eaves, Blake Shelide, Monika Whittenburg, and Tracy Kane. Mark your calendars for the tour, and stay tuned for more news soon.

SPNA membership meeting Monday (July 11)

2011-07-06T22:10:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting this Monday, July 11, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

WNPC forum for District 24 Metro Council candidates July 12

2011-06-28T21:49:00.001-05:00

The West Nashville Presidents Council will host a forum for candidates in Metro Council District 24 at Montgomery Bell Academy’s Paschall Theater on Tuesday, July 12, from 7 to 8:15 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.

Candidates Jason Holleman and Sarah Lodge Tally are scheduled to participate. Pat Nolan, political commentator for WTVF-TV, will emcee the event. Candidates will respond during the question and answer portion of the forum to questions submitted in advance via email toWestNashPC@gmail.com and, if time permits, from the audience. Prior to the forum, WNPC will host a meet-and-greet session for at-large MetroCouncil candidates beginning at 6 p.m.

District 24 encompasses the heart of West Nashville. It is primarily bounded by Interstate 40 to the north, Interstate 440 to the east, Woodmont Boulevard, Richland Creek, and Sugartree Creek to the south, and White Bridge Road, Knob Road, and Hillwood Boulevard to the west.

The West Nashville Presidents Council is a consortium of the presidents of neighborhood associations of West Nashville which have the common thread of being located along the West End Avenue corridor. The councilmeets monthly to share common issues and ideas among the group. WNPC has no officers and no dues.

The WNPC includes the following neighborhood associations: Cherokee Park Neighborhood Association, Hillsboro-West End Neighborhood Association, Kenner Manor Neighborhood Association, Lion’s Head Homeowners Association, Richland- West End Neighborhood Association, Sylvan Heights Neighborhood Association, Sylvan Park Neighborhood Association, White Bridge Neighborhood Association, Whitland Area Neighborhood Association, Woodlawn Area Neighborhood Association and Woodlawn West Neighborhood Association.

SPNA Fourth of July parade next Monday

2011-06-27T17:02:00.003-05:00

SPNA will hold its annual Fourth of July celebration and parade next Monday, July 4, at 10 a.m. at the Richland Park Picnic Shelter. Birthday cake and juice will be served, and as usual a gala children’s parade will be featured. Stirring, patriotic tunes will be played. Bring the kids; decorate the family tricycles and wagons with streamers, balloons and your wildest creative ideas.

The parade will progress along Park Avenue and around the park. Fellow citizens will toast the nation's birthday--the 235th. Come one and all, young and old to the birthday celebration! Volunteers are welcome at 9 a.m. to help decorate. Come one and all, young and old, to the birthday celebration!

SPNA summer newsletter now available

2011-06-27T16:59:00.002-05:00

The latest issue of the SPNA Neighborhood Journal is now available. The newsletter is being delivered to neighborhood homes this week.

SPNA membership meeting Monday (June 13)

2011-06-10T18:09:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting this Monday, June 13, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

SPNA membership meeting Monday (May 9)

2011-05-06T19:42:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting this Monday, May 9, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

SPNA spring newsletter now available

2011-03-19T11:41:00.000-05:00

The latest issue of the SPNA Neighborhood Journal is now available. The newsletter is being delivered to neighborhood homes beginning this weekend.

Arborist Dwight Barnett to speak at Monday's SPNA meeting (Feb. 14)

2011-02-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

Please join us next Monday (February 14) at 7 p.m. for the next SPNA membership meeting. Dwight Barnett, our area forester with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, will give a presentation about tree selection and tree care. If you are interested in learning more about how you can properly maintain trees on your property, you will definitely want to hear Dwight's remarks.

We'll also discuss the latest neighborhood news and upcoming events. Hope to see you there!

SPNA meets on the second Monday of each month at the Cohn Adult Learning Center (4805 Park Avenue). Our meetings take place in the basement of the building.

Sylvan Park book signing Feb. 8

2011-02-03T08:35:00.000-06:00

Longtime Sylvan Park residents Doug Eckert and Yvonne Eaves have co-authored a new book about the history of our neighborhood. Doug and Yvonne will sign copies of Nashville's Sylvan Park next Tuesday (Feb. 8) from 5 to 8 p.m. at McCabe Pub (4410 Murphy Road). Here are a few more details from Doug:

It's a coffee-table paperback on the history of our Sylvan Park neighborhood. [Featuring] more than 200 [historic] pictures, [the book] includes a lot of interesting local facts, spiced with some first-rate stories and characters. America's deadliest train accident occurred here. Nashville's first commercial airport. The first Krispy Kreme. A bootlegger with a gravel voice and a steel hook for a hand who ran secret prizefights on Saturday nights.

Please join Doug and Yvonne for this important celebration of Sylvan Park. See you there!

SHNA petition to address 37th Avenue tunnel

2011-01-26T14:15:00.000-06:00

The Sylvan Heights Neighborhood Association has created a petition asking the Metro government to address the tunnel at 37th Avenue North. As many of you know, this tunnel, which connects Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights, is very narrow. It is very hazardous for pedestrians and cyclists to pass through because of vehicle traffic. Anyone interested in supporting this cause is encouraged to sign the online petition.

SPNA meeting and elections rescheduled to Jan. 24

2011-01-13T15:39:00.000-06:00

SPNA's monthly membership meeting, which was cancelled this past Monday due to the weather, will be held instead on Monday, Jan. 24, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center. As usual, SPNA will hold its annual elections for the steering committee and for officer positions during this meeting.

Please plan to attend and to pay your 2011 membership dues prior to the start of the meeting. See the SPNA home page for details about how to pay online ($16) or via mail ($15). Dues may also be paid in person for $15 prior to the start of the meeting on the 24th.

December SPNA meeting cancelled

2010-12-13T12:42:00.002-06:00

The SPNA membership meeting scheduled for tonight (Monday, Dec. 13) has been cancelled due to the snow and ice. Please stay warm at home, and be careful if you are out on the roads today and tonight. SPNA’s next membership meeting will be on Monday, January 10, 2011.

SPNA holiday party this Sunday (Dec. 5)

2010-11-29T22:37:00.000-06:00

SPNA will hold its annual holiday party this Sunday, Dec. 5, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the home of Susan and Keith Murray (5311 Elkins Avenue). Please join us for this festive neighborhood tradition!

If you would like to go caroling via trolley along with other neighbors to spread a little holiday cheer, please arrive at 5 p.m. If you'd prefer to skip the caroling and mingle at the party instead, that's fine, too. Either way, we'd love to see you.

Different varieties of chili will be served, and guests are asked to bring one of the following side items: finger foods, tortilla chips, sour cream and cheese, slaw/salad or crudite. Please BYOB if you like; non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.

Let us know you're coming by submitting your RSVP on our Eventbrite.com party page. Please send a message to spna@sylvanpark.org if you have questions about the party.

Mayor Dean to officially reopen Richland Creek Greenway Saturday (Nov. 6)

2010-11-04T14:34:00.002-05:00

From the Richland Creek Greenway Trailwatch:

Please join Mayor Karl Dean on Saturday for the Mayor's Monthly Walk to celebrate completion of flood-damage repairs and new additions to the Richland Creek Greenway. This will mark the official re-opening of the Greenway, including the boardwalk behind Nashville State Community College (NSCC).

This will also mark the official opening of new connections to the NSCC/Knob Road/White Bridge neighborhood area and a segment of trail between Wyoming trailhead and the site of McCabe community center. Attached [above] is an invitation, forwarded by Councilman Jason Holleman, who added, “Our Metro Parks Department has worked very diligently on both of these projects, and we need to come out to thank them and greet the Mayor on his visit to our district.” The Walk will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 6, 2010, at the NES/White Bridge Road trailhead.

This is wonderful news for Sylvan Park. Please make plans to attend!

SPNA neighborhood social this Friday (Oct. 29)

2010-10-27T22:42:00.003-05:00

SPNA will host its latest neighborhood social this Friday, October 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the home of Jason and Margaret Holleman (4210 Park Avenue). This is a great opportunity to get to know your neighbors better, and beverages and light snacks will be provided. This event is free, and everyone in the neighborhood is invited to attend. Please join us!

All Saints Church craft sale this weekend (Oct. 23-24)

2010-10-20T22:44:00.000-05:00

The All Saints Southern Episopal Church will hold its annual craft sale this weekend. The event, which will feature crafts, antique quilts, jewelry and a bake sale, will be held on Saturday, Oct. 23, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday, Oct. 24, from 1 to 4 p.m.

The sale will be held at the church building at the intersection of 46th and Park Avenues. Lunch will be served on both days from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Saturday only, breakfast will be served from 8 to 11 a.m.

Latest SPNA newsletter now online

2010-10-14T17:39:00.001-05:00

The latest edition of the SPNA newsletter is now available online. Issues have been distributed to homes throughout the neighborhood over the past several days.

SPNA membership meeting Monday (Oct. 11)

2010-10-10T20:28:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, October 11, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. The proposed new bylaws for the organization will be presented to the membership for review. Members will have the opportunity to decide whether to adopt the bylaws via a vote at the November membership meeting.

This is an important meeting for SPNA’s past, present and future. Please join us!

SPNA membership meeting Monday (Sept. 13)

2010-09-10T17:03:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, September 13, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Sgt. Connie Tripp with the Metro Nashville Police Department will join us to discuss police and neighborhood collaboration to reduce crime and to discuss any recent neighborhood concerns. Please join us on Monday!

SPNA membership meeting Monday (August 9)

2010-08-06T17:27:00.002-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, August 9, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. The agenda for the meeting is attached. Minutes from the July membership meeting are attached for your review.

LeQuire Gallery to offer free treats from Las Paletas tonight (Aug. 5)

2010-08-05T09:47:00.001-05:00

LeQuire Gallery (4304 Charlotte Ave) will serve frozen treats from Las Paletas during tonight's Art After Hours event from 5 to 8 p.m. The event and the popsicles are free. For more information, see below and visit the LeQuire Gallery website.

They're Back! It's been an entire year, but the event of the summer is back! Gourmet Popsicles from Las Paletas are at LeQuire Gallery. Enjoy this month's Art After Hours while cooling off with a special beat-the-heat treat from a Nashville favorite.

With temperatures forecast to be over 100 degrees today, the timing couldn't be better.

Where to vote in Sylvan Park

2010-07-26T17:15:00.000-05:00

Election day (Thursday, August 5) in Davidson County is quickly approaching. Neighbors in Sylvan Park can vote in one of two locations, either the McCabe Golf Course Clubhouse or Sylvan Park School. Please note that some of this information was incorrectly listed in the most recent issue of the SPNA newsletter. If you aren't sure which location is your polling precinct, the search database at Nashville.gov can help.

Early voting will continue through this Saturday, July 31, at the Belle Meade United Methodist Church and other select locations (but not at either Sylvan Park location listed above). Regardless of what your particular political persuasion may be, the right to vote is an important privilege that should not be taken for granted. Please take time to vote between now and Aug. 5!

SPNA Night Out Against Crime August 3

2010-07-21T17:05:00.002-05:00

Sylvan Park’s biggest annual neighborhood event, our Night Out Against Crime, will take place on Tuesday, August 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Richland Park picnic shelter near the intersection of 49th and Charlotte Avenues. This is a wonderful opportunity to say thanks to our local police and fire departments for keeping our neighborhood safe, and it’s a good chance to catch up with neighbors or make new friends. Light refreshments will be served.

The Night Out Against Crime is a national celebration organized to thwart crime by building stronger neighborhoods and fostering partnerships between communities and local police. Our neighborhood depends on a strong partnership with our public safety personnel, and we look forward each year to the opportunity to tell them so.

Please mark your calendars for August 3 and join us for the Night Out Against Crime. See you soon!

43rd Avenue alley abandonment bill withdrawn

2010-07-21T16:53:00.000-05:00

At last night's Metro Council meeting, District 20 Council Member Buddy Baker withdrew the proposed alley abandonment bill that has generated strong opposition from neighbors in The Nations neighborhood. SPNA members unanimously opposed plans to rezone nearby properties earlier this spring and have been equally concerned about plans to abandon the alley way. Though the bill can be refiled at a later date, this is an important victory for residents of The Nations neighborhood. More information is available at the 43rd Rezoning website.

Community meeting regarding 43rd Avenue rezoning TODAY (July 17)

2010-07-17T12:54:00.000-05:00

District 20 Council Member Buddy Baker will hold a community meeting today (Saturday, July 17) at 4 p.m. to hear from neighbors regarding the proposed alley abandonment near the intersection of 43rd Avenue and Georgia Avenue in The Nations Neighborhood. The meeting will be held at 4300 Georgia Avenue.

SPNA members unanimously opposed plans to rezone the residential property at this address in a vote conducted earlier this spring. The proposed alley abandonment is a equally troubling. Please attend today's meeting if you are able to do so.

SPNA members approve additional charter language

2010-07-15T16:33:00.000-05:00

At Monday's membership meeting, SPNA members voted to accept language that will be included in the organization's amended charter document. The language is as follows:

Officers and board members shall be elected by the membership, as delineated
in the by-laws of the corporation.
Expenditures of the corporation shall be approved by the membership as provided for in the by-laws of the corporation.
Amendments and other changes to the by-laws shall be approved by the membership as provided for in the by-laws of the corporation.
The board of directors of the corporation shall be called the steering committee.

As many neighbors are aware, SPNA is in the process of updating its charter and by-laws to better reflect the nature of the association and to ensure full compliance with Tennessee state law governing non-profit organizations. The amended charter will be submitted to the Tennessee Secretary of State soon, and the following SPNA members will be listed as organizational incorporators: Bernard Pickey, Nick Bailey and Margaret Holleman. Revisions to SPNA's by-laws are also in the works, and members will have an opportunity to review all proposed changes and to vote on whether to approve them. Thanks to Membership Secretary F. Clark Williams and Recording Secretary Stephanie Swartz for their efforts to make these important updates.

RCWA community meeting tomorrow (July 14)

2010-07-13T16:37:00.001-05:00

Richland Creek Watershed Alliance will hold a community meeting tomorrow (Wednesday, July 14) at 6:30 p.m. at the Cohn School library (4805 Park Avenue). The purpose for the meeting will be to discuss plans for relocating a section of the creek. Senator Douglas Henry, Representative Gary Odom and Metro Council members Emily Evans, Jason Holleman and Buddy Baker will host the meeting.

Please plan to participate in this important conversation about Richland Creek. SPNA members voted unanimously at last night's membership meeting to support RCWA's proposal for rerouting the creek in the least environmentally invasive manner possible.

Community meeting re: 43rd and Georgia rezoning tomorrow (July 1)

2010-06-30T10:38:00.000-05:00

Residents of The Nations neighborhood are holding a community meeting this Thursday (July 1) at the West Nash United Methodist Church regarding a proposed rezoning of residential property at the intersection of 43rd Avenue and Georgia Avenue. The rezoning would permit heavy industrial use in order to allow expansion of an industrial facility. The meeting will be held at 7pm on July 1st in the Fellowship Hall at the West Nashville United Methodist Church at 4710 Charlotte Pike (http://www.westnashvilleumc.org). More information is available at http://43rdrezoning.org/.

This meeting will obviously interest members of the Nations neighborhood in West Nashville, but is open to anyone in the larger Nashville community who has an interest in this issue. There will be printed copies of a petition opposing the rezoning that people can sign at the meeting.

As many of you are aware, SPNA members voted unanimously this spring to oppose this rezoning.
Please forward this information to anyone you think might be interested, and help spread the word.

SPNA Independence Day celebration this Saturday (July 3)

2010-06-29T22:43:00.000-05:00

SPNA cordially invites you to a Fourth of July celebration in Richland Park on Saturday, July 3, at 10 a.m. at the Richland Park Picnic Shelter.

Birthday cake and juice will be served, and as usual a gala children’s parade will be featured. Stirring, patriotic tunes will be played. Bring the kids; decorate the family tricycles and wagons with streamers, balloons and your wildest creative ideas. The parade will progress along Park Avenue and around the park.

Fellow citizens will toast the nation's birthday--the 234th. Come one and all, young and old to the birthday celebration! Volunteers are welcome at 8 a.m. to help decorate.

Parade Schedule:

10:00 a.m. Neighbors gather
10:15 a.m. Parade begins
10:45 a.m. Remarks and awards
11:00 a.m. Cake is served

Latest SPNA newsletter now online

2010-06-29T22:38:00.001-05:00

The latest edition of the SPNA newsletter is now available online. Issues have been distributed to homes throughout the neighborhood over the past several days.

SPNA membership meeting Monday (June 14)

2010-06-12T17:49:00.000-05:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, June 14, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues.

During the meeting, SPNA members will hear a short presentation from Helene Harvey, owner of A New Leaf preschool. A New Leaf hopes to purchase the residence at 4711 Park Avenue and operate a preschool on the property. Members are encouraged to attend to be part of the discussion.

Hope to see you there.

SPNA yard sale this Saturday (May 15)

2010-05-13T21:37:00.000-05:00

The annual SPNA yard sale will be held this Saturday, May 15, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at more than 30 homes throughout the neighborhood. Homes will be marked with balloons on their mailboxes. Maps listing all of the participating homes will be available at each address. Many area merchants are participating, too. Hope to see you there!

Latest SPNA newsletter now online

2010-05-12T22:07:00.000-05:00

The latest edition of the SPNA newsletter is now available online. Issues were distributed to homes throughout the neighborhood at the end of April.

Realtor and volunteer Hal Wilson remembered

2010-04-19T13:03:00.000-05:00

You may already be aware that Hal Wilson, father of neighbor Christie Wilson and founder of the Wilson Group Real Estate Services, passed away on Saturday following a long battle with cancer. Here are excerpts from Hal's obituary, which was published in Sunday's Tennessean:

Hal will be remembered as a man with a great attitude, enthusiasm, and lover of negotiation. He was always after the best deal and enjoyed the game tremendously. He was a consummate people collector, and everyone he met became a friend who admired, respected, and genuinely loved him. He always gave of his time and knowledge freely, rarely asking for anything in return...

He has been on numerous boards, committees and received honors over his career, including, but not limited to: 2007-2010 Chaplain of the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors, Recipient of the prestigious President's Cup Award in 2006 from GNAR, Recipient of the William Tune Award - Real Estate Educator of the Year 2005 from the Tennessee Association of Realtors, Real Estate Investors of Nashville president in 1992, 1993 and 2000, Toastmasters International, Assistant Area Governor, Tennessee Organization of Professional Speakers President, 1986-1987, Preston Taylor Ministries Board of Directors and Board Chair, 2007, Gilda's Club Volunteer, Habitat for Humanity volunteer. He attended The Gathering Church, as well as Bellevue Community Church.

Hal loved traveling, riding his Harley, woodworking, general piddling on his house and tractor, and hanging out with his wife of 46 years, Martha "Dickie" Frady Wilson, [who] was his high school sweetheart and married shortly after. Hal loved and cherished his wife and best friend, who stood with him and supported him through his amazing career and long fight with cancer. They were the perfect pair.

Hal's family has asked that anyone interested in honoring his legacy support either of the following charities:

Preston Taylor Ministries
P.O. Box 90442
Nashville, TN 37209

Alive Hospice
1718 Patterson Street
Nashville, TN 37203

Girl Scout Troop 479 to hold yard sale Saturday (April 10)

2010-04-08T17:08:00.001-05:00

Sylvan Park's Girl Scout Troop 479 will hold a yard sale this Saturday, April 10, from 7 a.m. to noon at 4413 Dakota Avenue.

Proceeds from the sale will cover costs for the troop for its upcoming trip to Savannah, Ga., to visit the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Lowe and the original Girl Scouts headquarters. More information is included below from organizers Leslie Kirby and Ann Tappan. If you would like to donate items for the sale, there's still time: Email Leslie at leslieandcraig@comcast.net for more information.

At the end of this school year, our girls, some of whom have been in the troop at Sylvan Park since kindergarten, will be bridging to Juniors, which is the next age level in Girl Scouting. We will be traveling, along with some of the 4th grade Girl Scouts at Sylvan Park, in June to Savannah, Georgia to visit the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Lowe, the founder of Girl Scouting. We'll also be visiting the original Girl Scout Headquarters and doing other fun & learning activities in and around Savannah, including the beach and lighthouse at Tybee Island. Girl Scouting focuses on helping girls be strong and independent, and emphasizes physical, emotional and spiritual growth. We think this trip will help instill a sense of history and pride in the girls and also help them bond even more deeply as a group, which will be really important as they transition into middle school.

While we're on the subject of yard sales, don't forget that the annual SPNA yard sale is coming up on Saturday, May 15.

SPNA membership meeting Monday (April 12)

2010-04-07T16:59:00.000-05:00

Civic Bank to hold neighborhood shred day May 15

2010-04-05T10:21:00.000-05:00

Civic Bank & Trust in cooperation with Richards & Richards will be hosting a free neighborhood shred day on Saturday, May 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The destruction bins will be set up in the front parking lot of the bank located at 3325 West End Avenue. (Feel free to shred either before or after you stop by the SPNA Yard Sale, which will begin at 8 a.m.)

This is available to everyone in the area, including small businesses. There is no need to remove staples, paper clips or binder clips, the shredder can handle it all. Please feel free to come by and take advantage of this free opportunity to destroy old confidential documents. For more information, call Civic Bank at (615) 515-8000.

Theft from motor vehicle reported on 46th Avenue

2010-03-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that a theft from a motor vehicle occurred on the 200 block of 46th Avenue North on March 25. A GPS unit and other personal items were taken.

Please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600. Reporting this activity helps the police department determine appropriate staffing and assignments for our neighborhood.

MNPD reports recent neighborhood crimes

2010-03-23T11:43:00.001-05:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting the following criminal incidents during the past 30 days:

A street robbery on the 4900 block of Elkins Avenue on Feb. 25. The thief robbed the victim after stopping to ask directions.
A theft from a motor vehicle on the 100 block of 39th Avenue on Feb. 20.
A residential burglary on the 4000 block of Nevada Avenue on March 4. The thief entered the home through an unlocked back door and took jewelry and medications.
A theft from a motor vehicle on the 5200 block of Dakota Avenue on March 1. A purse was stolen.
A theft from a motor vehicle on the 4000 block of Utah Avenue on March 1. A GPS unit and cash were taken.
A residential burglary on the 4500 block of Wyoming Avenue on March 8.
Sylvan Park restaurant was robbed on March 11. A window was forced open, and money was taken.
A residential burglary on the 5000 block of Elkins Avenue on March 17. A door was forced open, and electronics were taken.
Dose Coffee and Tea was robbed on March 15. The front door was forced open, and a safe, money and a computer chip were stolen.
A theft from a motor vehicle on the 4400 block of Nevada on March 13. Change was taken.

Please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600. Reporting this activity helps the police department determine appropriate staffing and assignments for our neighborhood.

Empowerment Church easter egg hunt April 3

2010-03-21T21:28:00.000-05:00

The Empowerment Church will host a Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Richland Park near the Richland Library. There will be gift cards, prizes, activities, snacks and plenty of eggs and candy. The church will hold an Easter service on Sunday, April 4, at 10a.m. at the Cohn Adult Learning Center. For more information, call The Empowerment Church at (615) 519-9718 or visit empowermentchurchnashville.org.

RCWA Creek Clean-Up April 10

2010-03-21T18:04:00.001-05:00

The Richland Creek Watershed Alliance will hold its fourth-annual creek clean-up on Saturday, April 10, from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants will gather at the 5500 block of Charlotte Avenue. Email RCWA to pledge your participation.

Blakemore UMC plant sale April 17

2010-03-21T11:36:00.001-05:00

Blakemore United Methodist Church is partnering with Youngs Nursery is Gallatin to offer a plant sale. Details are listed below. Advance orders must be received by March 29, and the church will host a public sale on Saturday, April 17. All proceeds will benefit the church's mission team that is traveling to Nicaragua.

Blakemore United Methodist Church is partnering with Youngs Nursery in Gallatin, TN to offer you a good selection of beautiful, healthy, plants and vegetables that are suitable for Tennessee soil and weather. While some plants will be available for purchase by the public on Saturday, April 17th, we encourage you to order in advance so you are sure to get exactly what you want for your yard.

An order form is available online at http://www.blakemoreumc.org/files/BUMC%20Plant%20Sale.pdf. All orders must be paid in advance and received by Monday, March 29. Completed form and payment can be dropped off at the church office or mailed to 3601 West End Ave. 37205. Attention: Plant Sale.

Orders will be available for pick up Saturday, April 17th at Blakemore UMC (3601 West End Avenue) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plants for sale to the public will also be available April 17th beginning at 9 a.m. on a first come, first served basis. Please contact Julie Shadburne at julie.shadburne@comcast.net if you have questions.

Fourth-Annual Richland Creek Run April 3

2010-03-14T15:54:00.000-05:00

The Fourth-Annual Richland Creek Run presented by The Wilson Group Real Estate Services will take place on Saturday, April 3, at 8 a.m. If you haven't registered to run or walk, visit richlandcreekrun.com to sign up. Long-sleeve T-shirts featuring a Hatch Show Print logo are guaranteed to all pre-registered participants.

The run will take participants along a five-mile timed and measured course through sections of the Richland Creek Greenway and Sylvan Park. The race will begin outside of the Cohn Adult Learning Center, 4805 Park Avenue. Net proceeds from this event will benefit Greenways for Nashville, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the creation, protection, preservation, and promotion of Nashville greenways.

The Wilson Group Real Estate Services, Montgomery Bell Academy, Vanderbilt University, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Publix and the four organizing neighborhoods are primary sponsors of the Richland Creek Run. The race’s media sponsors are the Nashville Scene, Lightning 100, and Team Green.

Please note: Sections of 48th Avenue and Wyoming Avenue will be temporarily closed the morning of the run to accommodate runners and walkers. Side streets will be affected where they intersect with these two streets.

SPNA membership meeting Monday (March 8)

2010-03-05T15:36:00.000-06:00

SPNA will hold its monthly membership meeting on Monday, March 8, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there.

Sewer system upgrade to be discussed at community meeting March 11

2010-03-05T11:05:00.000-06:00

Metro Water Services will hold a community meeting on Thursday, March 11, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Lentz Public Health Center Auditorium (311 23rd Avenue North). The purpose of the meeting is to inform the public about an ongoing effort to upgrade Metro Nashville’s combined sewer system and the related impact on Sylvan Park and other local neighborhoods.

If you would like more information on this clean-water initiative, please visit the MWS Web site, or call Sonia Harvat at (615) 862-4494.

Here is more information from MWS:

The purpose of this meeting is to share with your community constituents details of a new phase of an ongoing plan to improve quality of the Cumberland River, and to introduce neighborhood leaders with the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) established for this project. In Downtown, West and South Nashville the CAC members are:

Tom Turner, Downtown Partnership
Juli Mosley, retired engineer, West Nashville resident
Mark Petty, Vanderbilt University
Emrick Kravec, St. Thomas Health System
Jeremy Daugherty, Urban Residents Association (Sobro)
Mike Pearigan, Hillsboro/West End Neighbors
Stan Romine, Metro Nashville Health Department

Because much of Nashville’s urban-area combined system is old, there are still combined sewer overflows into the Cumberland River when major rain events occur. A map of the areas that are near you, under a combined sewer system and will likely be affected by these updates is attached. You’ll notice the CSO areas outlined in red on each map. The areas outside the red are generally not in a CSO basin and will not be affected. There are other CSO basins and East and North Nashville. Those areas are being covered under separate community meetings.
Background

Due to a failure to meet requirements of the Clean Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is requiring Metro to conduct improvements to the remainder of the system. Metro and EPA are partners in a Consent Decree that will involve a public input process that contributes to a scope of work to minimize future overflows into the Cumberland. This will be accomplished through three main approaches – conveyance, flow-reduction and treatment.

Throughout the 1990s, Metro Nashville made major investments to update its urban-area sewer system to significantly reduce combined sewer overflows into the Cumberland River. Major progress was made, and as a result the Cumberland River, one of Nashville’s greatest resources, is a much cleaner source for drinking water and recreation, but we still have a ways to go.

The March 11 meeting will include an overview of the combined sewer system and begin public dialogue important to achieving the best and most effective plan to improve Nashville’s water quality.

RCWA meeting re: storm buffer for new MNPD precinct Monday (March 1)

2010-02-26T16:51:00.000-06:00

Please see below from the Richland Creek Watershed Alliance regarding an important meeting on Monday, March 1, at 5:30 p.m.

Last week Metro posted a stream buffer variance request notice on the property that Metro recently purchased for the upcoming West Nashville Police precinct and crime lab.

The property is located at 5500 Charlotte Avenue (Old Champion Ford, Frensley), and it's eastern border is Richland Creek. You may also remember this property was included into the proposed bird watching and commemorative James Park, during the West Nashville public visioning and planning process. James Park did not make it through the planning process but RCWA was assured the stream buffer would be fully restored.

RCWA received numerous emails objecting to the variance request last week.

Our councilman, Jason Holleman, has contacted RCWA this week to host a meeting to discuss this variance request with RCWA supporters, in which the engineer hired for the Metro redevelopment project also will be present.

This meeting for the stream buffer variance request will be held Monday, 5:30 p.m. at the library room of the Cohn school- 4805 Park Avenue. Metro city ordinance calls for properties, who are grandfathered-in with no stream buffers, be fully restored when they are significantly redeveloped. At this location a 75 foot stream buffer is required.

Please come to the meeting with your questions about this variance request to not fully restore the stream buffer.

Metro Historical Commission award nominations now open

2010-02-24T09:52:00.000-06:00

From the Metro Historical Commission:

The Metropolitan Historical Commission is pleased to announce a call for nominations for the 2010 Preservation Awards. Historic residential neighborhoods have produced a large number of past nominees and award winners, and we look forward to recognizing excellent rehabilitation work again this year.

The MHC is now accepting nominations for our 35th awards program. The public is invited to submit any building or structure in Davidson County, built before 1960, that has been restored, rehabilitated, or carefully maintained over time.

Categories for nominations include: residential (single-family and multi-family), commercial buildings, religious properties, engineering and industrial structures, educational and institutional and infill (new construction located within a context of historic architecture).

Nominations will be judged on their architectural merit and/or historical interest, soundness of condition, creativity in adaptation for contemporary use, and sensitivity to historic architectural character. Winners receive an awards certificate and plaque to display on the winning properties. All nominated properties will be featured in an awards ceremony on Tuesday, May 11, where the winners will be announced.

Nomination forms are available through the Metropolitan Historical Commission Web site or by calling the Metropolitan Historical Commission at (615) 862-7970. Completed forms are due Friday, April 2.

SPNA Neighborhood Happy Hour Friday (Feb. 26)

2010-02-24T08:00:00.002-06:00

SPNA will host its very first Neighborhood Happy Hour on Friday, Feb. 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the home of Jason and Margaret Holleman (4210 Park Avenue). This will be a quarterly opportunity to get to know your neighbors better, and we're anticipating a big crowd and a fun evening. Beverages and light snacks will be provided.

This event is free, and everyone in the neighborhood is invited to attend. Please mark your calendars and join us. See you there!

WEMS to hold first-ever chili cook-off this Friday (Feb. 26)

2010-02-22T14:29:00.000-06:00

West End Middle School will hold its first-ever chili cook-off on Friday, February 26. Dining and judging will take place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and the cook-off winners will be announced at 6:45 p.m. A bake sale will also be held as part of the event, so save room for dessert.

Tickets for the event, which are available for purchase on the WEMS Web site, are $10 per person with a maximum price of $30 for families with three members or more. Proceeds from the event will benefit the school, which is raising funds to build an outdoor classroom and learning center.

When you've had enough chili and dessert for one evening, be sure to stop by the SPNA Neighborhood Happy Hour, too. See you Friday!

Second residential burglary reported on Woodlawn Drive

2010-02-22T14:21:00.000-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that a residential burglary took place on the 4400 block of Westlawn Drive at some point between February 9 and 14. The thief forced open the door to the home and took a guitar and a TV. This was the second residential burglary reported on the street within three weeks following a burglary on the 4100 block on January 25. As always, please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600.

West Nashville community coalition meeting Wednesday (Feb. 17)

2010-02-16T10:11:00.002-06:00

The next West Nashville community coalition meeting will be held tomorrow (Wednesday, February 17) from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at West Nashville United Methodist Church (4710 Charlotte Avenue). The event is free, and the public is invited to attend.

Two detectives from the Metro Nashville Police Department's gang unit will give a presentation about their work and answer questions.

The meeting is the latest in a series of meetings intended to foster communication and collaboration among neighborhood organizations, residents, law enforcement and business owners regarding issues facing the local community. For more information, email Sherry Cothran at sdcothran@gmail.com.

Latest SPNA newsletter now online

2010-02-09T11:20:00.002-06:00

The latest edition of the SPNA newsletter is now available online. Issues will be distributed to homes throughout the neighborhood over the next several days.

SPNA monthly meeting tonight (Feb. 8)

2010-02-08T11:33:00.002-06:00

SPNA will hold its monthly meeting tonight (Monday, February 8), at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

SPNA Neighborhood Happy Hour Feb. 26

2010-02-04T17:44:00.000-06:00

Residential burglary reported on Westlawn Drive

2010-02-03T14:40:00.000-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that a residential burglary took place on January 25 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on the 4100 block of Westlawn Drive. The back window of the property was kicked in. As always, please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600.

Sylvan Heights fire victims need help

2010-01-30T09:30:00.001-06:00

As many of you are aware, a fire in Sylvan Heights claimed the lives of three adults and two children earlier this month. WSMV-TV covered this tragic development this past week. The surviving family members, which include two children, are having a very hard time and could use any help that neighbors are willing to provide. Most of the family's personal property was destroyed in the fire.

The Sylvan Heights Neighborhood Association is organizing a collection for the family, and Joy Dexheimer with SHNA is leading this effort. Here are items the family can use:

Gift cards for local grocery stores or fast food restaurants
Pillows, sheets, covers, books, toys.
Clothes, shoes and school supplies for the children, a 7 year-old girl and a 3 year-old boy.

If you would like to help in any way, please contact Joy at joyccollins@yahoo.com or (615) 481-1472.

Arrest made in Dakota Avenue larceny

2010-01-26T13:58:00.000-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that an arrest has been made following the theft of a gas powered tiller from a home on the 4800 block of Dakota Avenue on January 22. As always, please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600.

Charlotte Avenue Church of Christ may be demolished this week

2010-01-26T13:32:00.002-06:00

A report from Metro Council member Jason Holleman regarding very sad news for this important intersection and for Sylvan Park.:

I heard in late December that the Charlotte Avenue Church of Christ was planning to demolish the church at 4508 Charlotte Avenue, even though they don't have a buyer for the property. Today, one of the church leaders called to confirm that decision and told me that the building will be taken down later this week. Two years ago, I filed a bill in the Council to buy the building more time. Unfortunately, time has now run out, and unless a buyer comes forward immediately, it will be too late. I wanted to share this information with the neighborhood because I believe that the demolition of this building will be a blow to the unique and historic feel of Charlotte Avenue.

Kathy Hearne to be honored March 5

2010-01-25T11:36:00.000-06:00

Kathy Hearne, a neighbor who passed away this past fall, will be honored at the third-annual Celebration of Women Mentoring Women on Friday, March 5, at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. The event is hosted by the Maternal Infant Health Outreach Worker program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Kathy is being honored for her social justice advocacy and her efforts to start several local nonprofit and community service organizations. For more information, visit the program Web site or email Emily Masters at emilybmasters@gmail.com.

The Green Wagon faring well in national online contest

2010-01-21T15:31:00.000-06:00

Neighborhood business The Green Wagon is in the top 10 nationwide in Intuit's Love a Local Business contest. If you're a fan, help The Green Wagon out by adding a nomination of your own. Contest winners earn small business grants, and the overall business winner can win as much as $35,000.

Theft from motor vehicle reported on Nevada Avenue

2010-01-19T10:23:00.000-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that a theft from a motor vehicle occurred on the 4800 block of Nevada Avenue on Sunday, Jan. 17. A cell phone and gift cards were taken from the vehicle, which had been left unlocked. As always, please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600.

LeQuire Gallery to host Ernest A. Pickup event Saturday (Jan. 16)

2010-01-14T11:35:00.000-06:00

LeQuire Gallery (4304 Charlotte Avenue) will host authors Beverly St. John and Gary Webb for a book signing on Saturday, January 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wood engravings by artist Ernest A. Pickup will also be on display. Pickup's work "Parthenon" is pictured above.

St. John and Webb have written the book, "The Life and Work of Ernest A. Pickup." Pickup was one of Nashville’s first commercial artists. He produced thousands of illustrations and commercial designs throughout a career that spanned over fifty years. Today he is best remembered for the fine quality black and white prints he produced during the Depression years of the 1930’s. Inspired by Thomas Hart Benton and other exponents of the Regionalism movement, his prints reflect historic places of interest in Nashville and rural scenes of nature in and around his home in Brentwood, just south of Nashville.

For more information, call LeQuire Gallery at (615) 298-4611.

Larceny reported on Idaho Avenue

2010-01-13T10:17:00.000-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that a larceny took place on the 4500 block of Idaho Avenue on Wednesday, January 6. A purse was reportedly taken around 5 p.m. As always, please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600.

SPNA monthly meeting Monday (Jan. 11)

2010-01-10T21:28:00.000-06:00

SPNA will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, January 11, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Hope to see you there!

MNPD reports residential burglary on 53rd Avenue North

2010-01-08T12:13:00.000-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is reporting that a residential burglary took place on the 300 block of 53rd Avenue North on Tuesday, January 5. The back door of the property was forced open, and electronics and jewelry were taken. As always, please report criminal or suspicious activity to the police at (615) 862-8600.

Construction on Richland Creek Greenway expansion to begin soon

2010-01-07T10:28:00.000-06:00

The Tennessean is reporting that expansion of the Richland Creek Greenway will begin in the next few weeks. As indicated in red in the above image, the expansion will connect neighborhoods near Knob Road more directly with the greenway.

MNPS may lease Cohn school building to local charter school

2010-01-06T11:00:00.000-06:00

As reported in today's City Paper, Metro Nashville Public Schools is considering leasing the Cohn school building to local charter school LEAD Academy, which plans to open a high school this fall.

An agreement for LEAD Academy’s new high school to lease space inside the Cohn school building in Sylvan Park appears to be gaining traction, but a deal still needs the OK of Metro Nashville Public Schools and subsequent school board approval...

Securing a facility for the high school, which begins its admissions process next week, has been the subject of recent conversations between LEAD Academy founder Jeremy Kane and Alan Coverstone, director of charter and private schools at MNPS. The two parties have discussed a handful of building possibilities, with the Cohn school building, situated at Park Avenue across the street from Richland Park, emerging as the clear preference for LEAD.

Neighbors are encouraged to review the full article to learn more about this possibility for the Cohn school property. Councilmember Jason Holleman (jason@jasonholleman.com) and Alan Coverstone at MNPS (alan.coverstone@mnps.org) would appreciate feedback from neighbors regarding this development.

Community meeting regarding convention center Jan. 12

2010-01-04T10:36:00.000-06:00

Councilmembers Jason Holleman, Sean McGuire and Kristine LaLonde will host a community meeting to
discuss the proposed Music City Center convention center on Tuesday, January 12, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the auditorium of West End Middle School (3529 West End Avenue).

The Metro Council is expected to vote on a bond resolution that has been filed by Mayor Dean to fund the construction of the project on Tuesday, Jan. 19, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Metro Courthouse. The community meeting will feature presentations from project proponents and opponents and questions from the audience.

SPNA winter newsletter now online

2010-01-02T21:43:00.000-06:00

The winter edition of the SPNA newsletter is now available online. Issues were distributed to SPNA members by mail earlier this week.

SPNA monthly meeting Monday (Dec. 14)

2009-12-12T16:52:00.000-06:00

SPNA will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, December 14, at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. This is an important time for SPNA as we take some important steps to strengthen our organization and look forward to what promises to be a busy and eventful 2010. Hope to see you there!

Boy Scout Troop 17 selling Christmas trees through Dec. 20

2009-12-06T21:29:00.000-06:00

Boy Scout Troop 17 is selling Christmas trees through December 20 at Blakemore United Methodist Church (3601 West End Avenue). Operating hours are Monday through Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon until 6 p.m.

SPNA caroling party this Sunday (Dec. 6)

2009-12-04T09:06:00.001-06:00

SPNA will hold its annual Christmas caroling party this Sunday (Dec. 6) at 5 p.m. at the home of Susan Rodgers and Keith Murray (5311 Elkins Avenue). Here are the party details:

Members of the neighborhood association were mailed invitations November 23 for the annual Christmas Caroling Party. The neighborhood caroling and party have been a long time tradition in the neighborhood. Members have enjoyed getting together to kick off the holiday season.

This year’s celebration will start at the home of Susan Rodgers and Keith Murray at 5311 Elkins Avenue. Carolers will board a trolley, travel through Sylvan Park and carol some of our older neighbors. Christmas baskets full of treats have been prepared to give to them.

The party starts at 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 6, with caroling from 5:30 to 7:00, then partying to continue at Susan and Keith’s home. Different varieties of chili are provided and members are asked to please bring a covered dish or something to share.

This is always a wonderful party, a chance to get caught up with old friends and an opportunity to meet new friends. For more information, please call Cheryl Pickney at (615) 385-2890 or Stephanie Swartz at (615) 712-6950. Hope to see you there!

LeQuire Gallery Art After Hours event Thursday (Dec. 3)

2009-12-02T22:02:00.000-06:00

LeQuire Gallery (4304 Charlotte Avenue) will host its latest Art After Hours event on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m. The event will showcase organic art and a tasting of organic appetizers from Miel restaurant. This event is free and open to the public. Here's more information from LeQuire Gallery:

In celebration of our current Nature of Wood exhibit, featuring many pieces from salvaged Tennessee hardwoods, our friends and Charlotte Ave. neighbors from Miel Restaurant join us for an evening of organic tastings. Using mostly organic and biodynamic products for their flavors, owners Seema & Jimmy Phillips have many heirloom vegetables to choose from grown in the rich soil and well-water yields from the Miel farm just 10 minutes from the restaurant. Fully committed to organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices, the farm is also the restaurant's compost site. Miel Restaurant cooks only in copper and stainless steel pots, avoiding aluminum when at all possible. The water is filtered and only fully biodegradable and recyclable packaging is used for takeout containers.

Appetizers to be served include picholine, niçoise and oil cured Morrocan olives, mussels In saffron cream, butter lettuce salad with truffled dijon vinaigrette, duck confit on local greens, Hudson Valley foie gras, frog legs and escargot. For more information, call LeQuire Gallery at (615) 298-4611.

Will Sing for Food fundraiser Saturday (Dec. 5)

2009-12-02T21:45:00.000-06:00

Good Food for Good People, the group behind the West Nashville Farmers Market, will hold a concert titled "Will Sing for Food" on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. at the West Nashville United Methodist Church (4710 Charlotte Avenue). Here's more information:

Start the holiday season right by joining Good Food for Good People folks for an evening of amazing entertainment and Latino fare. Performers include a writers' round with Sherry Cothran, Jeff Jacob and Vivian Slade followed by the soulful Duncan May & the Resonators and the fabulous Funkwrench. You can also pick up some great holiday gifts at the silent auction. All monies raised will support the Richland Park Youth Gardening Initiative. [The price of admission is] $15 for individuals or $25 for couples.

Are you interested in keeping up with news from Good for Good People and the West Nashville Farmers Market? Become a fan on Facebook.

MNPD participating in Second Harvest food drive

2009-11-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

The Metro Nashville Police Department is participating in a food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank and encouraging residents to make donations of their own. If you'd like to donate food items, drop them off at the West Precinct (6730 Charlotte Avenue) Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. through Monday, Nov. 23.

Second Harvest is in particular need of the following items: peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, canned fruit, rice, beans, canned vegetables, canned meats and pasta.

West Nashville community coalition meeting rescheduled to Dec. 1

2009-11-09T17:04:00.000-06:00

The West Nashville community coalition meeting scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday, Nov. 10), has been rescheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 1, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The meeting will still be held at West Nashville United Methodist Church (4710 Charlotte Avenue). The event is free, and the public is invited to attend.

SPNA board meeting tonight (Nov. 9)

2009-11-09T11:57:00.000-06:00

SPNA will hold its monthly board meeting tonight (Monday, November 9) at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Tonight's meeting will include a discussion of SPNA's recently adopted by-laws as well as other current organization business. Hope to see you there!

Animal Control picks up three stray dogs

2009-11-06T11:12:00.000-06:00

Metro Animal Control Field Operations Supervisor Billy Biggs reports that the organization picked up three stray dogs yesterday as part of a sweep of the neighborhood. Please continue to call Animal Control at (615) 862-7928. This number is monitored 24 hours a day, so please leave a detailed message when calling.

MNPD apprehends suspected Target thief

2009-11-06T11:08:00.000-06:00

From the Metro Nashville Police Department:

A tip to Crime Stoppers led to the identification of convicted robber Timothy Kelly, Jr., 23, as the man who stabbed a woman and robbed her of her purse October 27th in the Target parking lot at 26 White Bridge Road. Kelly is already in custody on other robbery charges. He was arrested Saturday by Hermitage Precinct Officer Jimmy Gregg who spotted the suspect getaway vehicle involved in the hold-up of a man seated in a car in the 1000 block of Thompson Lane. Kelly is charged with aggravated robbery in that crime. He is also charged with robbery for snatching a woman’s purse October 25th in the Wal-Mart parking lot at 7044 Charlotte Pike. He is currently being held on $100,000 bond.

A warrant charging Kelly with aggravated robbery has been issued in the Target case. Kelly, who is homeless, was convicted in July 2008 of robbing an 84-year-old man outside the victim’s 31st Avenue North residence. He was released on probation in January 2008 after serving one year. He violated his probation six months later for domestic assault (convicted) and was returned to jail. Kelly was released in April of this year. In 2002, at age 16, Kelly was convicted of aggravated assault in Bledsoe County. He served four years at the now-closed Brushy Mountain Correctional Complex.

Robbery reported on Westlawn Drive

2009-11-04T15:43:00.000-06:00

A neighbor has reported that the following robbery took place last Thursday:

I live [on] Westlawn Drive and want to report a robbery to the association so members of the community can be aware of this activity and take caution. The robbery took place on Thursday morning, October 29 between 9:10 am and 9:40 am (approximate time). The burgler(s) entered through a small bathroom window and exited through a side door.

I have heard from two neighbors they saw suspicious activity last week - one in the evening and one at 7 a.m. in the morning. Both occurances were on busy streets, Sloan and Murphy, respectively.

As always, please report any suspicious or criminal behavior you observe to the Metro Nashville Police Department at (615) 862-8600.

Sylvan Park School Songwriters Night Tuesday (Nov. 3)

2009-10-30T15:59:00.000-05:00

Celebrated songwriters Jeff Black, Matthew Ryan, Jonathan Yudkin and Bonepony will perform a benefit concert for Sylvan Park School at 3rd & Lindsley (818 3rd Avenue South) on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. They'll be joined by a special guest as well.

Tickets are $12 per person, and they can be purchased in advance. Proceeds from the concert will help cover the costs for improvements to the school auditorium.

West Nashville community meeting Nov. 10

2009-10-29T13:02:00.000-05:00

The next West Nashville community coalition meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 10, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at West Nashville United Methodist Church (4710 Charlotte Avenue). The event is free, and the public is invited to attend.

The meeting is the latest in a series of meetings intended to foster communication and collaboration among neighborhood organizations, residents, law enforcement and business owners regarding issues facing the local community. Metro Council Members Buddy Baker and Jason Holleman and police officials are planning to attend. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, email Sherry Cothran at sdcothran@gmail.com.

MNPD looking for White Bridge Road Target robbery suspect

2009-10-28T13:18:00.000-05:00

From the Metro Nashville Police Department:

West Precinct detectives are working to identify the man who stabbed a woman last night in the Target parking lot at 26 White Bridge Pike and stole her purse. The 46-year-old victim was talking to friends at 8 p.m. when the suspect approached her, stabbed her in the back without provocation, and fled with her purse in a late 90s or early 2000 model dark blue Ford Mustang occupied by at least one other person.

The suspect is described as a black man in his 20s or early 30s with short hair who is approximately 5’10” tall and who weighs approximately 160 pounds. The victim was transported to St. Thomas Hospital with a minor stab wound. Anyone who has information concerning this crime is urged to contact West Precinct detectives at (615) 862-7385 or Crime Stoppers at 74-CRIME. Citizens can also send an electronic tip to Crime Stoppers by texting the word “CASH” along with their message to 274637 (CRIMES) or online at www.nashvillecrimestoppers.com. Persons who contact Crime Stoppers by phone or text message can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward.

Community meeting regarding West police precinct relocation Nov. 5

2009-10-28T11:53:00.000-05:00

Metro Council members Jason Holleman and Buddy Baker will host a community meeting next Thursday, Nov. 5, regarding the proposed relocation of the West Police Precinct. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Cohn Adult Learning Center Library (4805 Park Avenue). This meeting is free and open to the public, and neighbors are encouraged to attend to voice their opinions.

This is the subject matter of Resolution No. RS2009-979 which will be considered by the Metro Council on Tuesday, November 17, 2009. For further information, please contact Councilman Baker by phone at (615) 356-0714 or email at buddy.baker@nashville.gov. Councilman Holleman can be reached at (615) 269-6365 or by email at jason.holleman@nashville.gov.

Community meeting regarding adult bookstore this Thursday (Oct. 22)

2009-10-20T21:59:00.001-05:00

Metro Council member Jason Holleman will host a community meeting this Thursday, Oct. 22, regarding the recently opened Ava's Adult Bookstore on Charlotte Avenue. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Ann Catholic Community Parish Life Center (5101 Charlotte Avenue). This meeting is free and open to the public, and neighbors are encouraged to attend to voice their opinions.

SPNA approves new by-laws

2009-10-20T21:00:00.000-05:00

As many neighbors are aware, SPNA voted 14-10 to pass a new set of organizational by-laws at this month's membership meeting. The new by-laws, which include seven amendments proposed by individual members prior to the vote, are now available on the Web site.

As those who participated can attest, this was a challenging and imperfect process. Members have expressed an interest in having further discussion about the by-laws and any additional changes that may need to be made to refine them further. SPNA is planning to discuss the by-laws again at the board meeting scheduled for Monday, November 9. Please make plans to attend this important meeting.

Metro Planning Commission calls for public input on procedures

2009-10-14T15:32:00.000-05:00

From the Metro Planning Commission:

The Metro Planning Commission's Rules and Procedures Subcommittee is currently reviewing the Commission's rules and meeting procedures. The Subcommittee, which includes Commissioners Stewart Clifton, Judy Cummings, and Hunter Gee, welcomes both general and specific suggestions about the Commission's rules, what actions and topics should be part of the Commission meetings, and how those meetings should be conducted. Comments, suggestions, and other public input can be sent by email or by postal mail to the Planning Commission office at 800 Second Avenue South, PO Box 196300, Nashville, TN 37219. No cutoff date has been set, but submissions should be made as soon as possible.

WSMV-TV to air story on adult bookstore tonight

2009-10-12T14:24:00.002-05:00

WSMV-TV will air a story tonight, either during its 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. newscast, regarding the adult bookstore that has opened recently on Charlotte Avenue. Many neighbors are concerned about the bookstore's proximity to the neighborhood. Update: Here's a brief from WSMV-TV's Web site about tonight's story.

SPNA fall newsletter now online

2009-10-12T14:22:00.004-05:00

The fall edition of the SPNA newsletter is now available online. Issues were distributed to neighborhood homes earlier this month.

SPNA members to vote on new by-laws at meeting Monday (Oct. 12)

2009-10-09T13:37:00.001-05:00

SPNA members will decide whether to adopt new by-laws at the upcoming membership meeting on Monday, October 12, at 7 p.m. The revised by-laws are intended to replace the existing by-laws and better conform to the standards for non-profit organizations that are required by Tennessee state law.

The meeting will be held in the basement of the Cohn Adult Learning Center at the intersection of 48th and Park Avenues. Please make plans to attend this important event.

Slow food dinner supporting Farmers Market tonight (Oct. 9)

2009-10-09T13:33:00.000-05:00

Fido Coffeehouse will host a seven-course slow-food dinner tonight (Friday, Oct. 9) at 7:30 p.m. to benefit the West Nashville Farmers Market. The meal costs $50 per person, and the proceeds will support the mission of Richland Gardens and West Nashville's growing local food movement. Email events@cafefido.com to make reservations.