October 2018
COMPLIMENTARY
The GIFT of Sweet Sleep
Russ & Tori Taff STILL BELIEVING
®
116 Wilson Pike Circle, Suite 100 Brentwood, TN 37027 615-730-7671 or lisa@sweetsleep.org
sweetsleep.org/donate
@sweetsleep
sweet_sleep
@sweetsleep
Medicare Open Enrollment October 15th through December 7th (Effective coverage date 1-1-19)
“Get the answers to questions you don’t even know to ask.” Ben Davis, CSA Certified Senior Advisor 615-584-4946 cell 615-617-9953 office ben.davis@selectpointe.com
Our Mission Publisher: Robert Stringfellow • 615-815-8765 publisher@christianfamilynashville.com Editor: Raymonda Jaggers Contributing Writers:
Bruce Ashford, Ph D Steve Blume Dashia B. Brandon Neil Breeden Jim Catalano, Esq. Ben Davis Ben Graham Doug Griffin Brittney Griffy Dan Kalman Megan McInnis Jackie Monaghan
Dave Ramsey Mark Simpson William Slater Jason Stacy Chris Stephens Ashton Tate Kelley Rose Waller Ming Wang, MD, PhD Lisa Wilson
Production and Art Direction: Wendy Satterwhite Website Development, Digital Marketing & SEO Services: The 5by5 Agency Printer: Franklin Web Printing Sales & Marketing: Robert Stringfellow, Brenda Delgado, Marketing Specialist, Dashia Brandon, Administrative Assistant and Social Media Manager Cover: Russ and Tori Taff Nashville Christian Family is published monthly by Clarion Concepts, P.O. Box 463, Spring Hill, TN 37174. The phone number is 615-815-8765. E-mail ncfpublication@gmail.com. Reproduction of any part of Nashville Christian Family without permission of the Publisher is prohibited. Distribution of this paper does not constitute and endorsement of information, products or services. Views expressed in Nashville Christian Family do not necessarily represent those of the Publisher. Every effort has been made by Nashville Christian Family staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2018 by The Christian Family Publication, Inc. Unless otherwise noted, scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Use by permission of International Bible Society. Circulation and Distribution: Nashville Christian Family is free and available at targeted, high traffic locations throughout the Nashville Metro Area and surrounding counties, Williamson, Wilson, Sumner, Rutherford and Maury. 10,000 copies are printed each month. Copies are available by subscription, $25 for one year (12 issues). To subscribe, e-mail ncfpublication@gmail.com
Nashville Christian Family ® exists to provide Christians and the community at large with ways to strengthen and grow as a part of the Middle Tennessee Christian Family. This local monthly publication is designed to promote positive living by sharing with readers of all ages relevant and timely news and information related to health, faith, parenting, youth, finances, Christian entertainment, missions, church leaders, and much more.
From the Publisher We are blessed and excited that Nashville Christian Family Magazine celebrated eight years of publishing this past May and in August, our 100th issue was printed. We very thankful to God for His many blessings on the publication that have enabled the magazine to steadily grow in readership, coverage area, support through renewing and new advertisers and additional contributing writers. Because of this, we continue to spread Good News to an ever expanding area not only in Middle Tennessee but nationwide and around the world via the web site, christianfamilypublication.com. Thank You! too the ever increasing number of businesses and non- profit organizations that are utilizing Nashville Christian Family in their marketing plans, your support is vital and certainly appreciated. Thank You! also too our readers for your continued support by reading the monthly issues in print, at our web site or both and for paying attention to our advertisers and patronizing them whenever you can. Thank you also for the many kind phone calls and emails of encouragement and support, it means a lot.
AUGUST 2018
We are looking forward to what the Lord has in store in the future of the publication, after all, it is His platform. Thanks again!
Publisher, 615-815-8765 publisher@christianfamilynashville.com
– Nashville Christian Family is a part of The Christian Family Publication, Inc. celebrating 18 years of Good News! Visit www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
October 2018
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October 2018
Contents
Volume 9, Number 12
DEPARTMENTS 3 From the Publisher 6 Youth News Understanding ACT Test Scores
ON THE COVER 16
6 Music Notes The Controlled Scream
Russ Taff along with his wife, Tori, share his sto8 The Home Front ry of four decades of Christian music, forgivePeace of Mind For You and Your Foundation ness and the freedom of recovery. See page 16. 9 Legal Matters Common Legal Problems for Small Business Owners 13 Give the Gift of Sweet Sleep
SPECIAL FEATURES 10 Honoring Our Veterans 12 Dr. Ming Wang Perfects 3D Lasik 13 Bon Aqua Bluegrass Festival
11 Senior Scene It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Season 11 Healthy Living Swimming Up Stream 13 Mission Makers Give the Gift of Sweet Sleep 14 Money Matters 14 Tech Talk Technology Changing the Attitude of Society
NEXT ISSUE
18 Our House Thank You Welcome Wagon!
What Happens In a Foster Care Home Evaluation 20 Are We There Yet?
Second Annual “Bon Aqua Bluegrass Festival” – October 27 – 28 22 City Scene Family Fun This Fall 22 Faith At Work My Growing Faith and The Next Download
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24 Hassle Free Zone What is Water Hammer and How to Prevent It 26 Hometown Hero Life Changing Goals 27 An Encouraging Word “Daddy, Where is God During the Hurricane?” 27 God’s Plan For Salvation and Eternal Life 29 Body & Soul The Other Ninety-nine
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30 Calendar 30 About Our Advertisers
19 Parenting Points
available online! Major Ethan Frizzell – Area Commander and Major Sue Frizzell – Assoc. Area Commander Salvation Army Nashville & MUCH MORE!
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You’re favorite place on the web for Christian content about
Family, Parenting, Social Issues, Healthy Living and Much More!
ChristianFamilyNashville.com
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Understanding ACT Test Scores
If taking the ACT caused anxious hours, waiting for the results may stretch worry into weeks. After completing the multiple choice college admissions test on a national test date, a student will have to wait two weeks or more to get the results. Scores are posted online and can be viewed by logging in to the student’s ACT web account. If a student took the optional writing test the writing score will be available about two weeks after the multiple choice scores are available. ACT recently enhanced reporting scores. Students and parents now have more information than previously, but let’s start with the basics. The ACT has four subject tests – English, mathematics, reading, and science. There is an optional writing test which is scored on a separate scale. Each of the four subject tests are scored on a scale from 1 to 36. These four scores are averaged and rounded to the nearest whole number to determine the composite score. The composite score is the short answer to the question, “How did you do on the ACT?” Knowing the composite score is only one piece to the puzzle of understanding how well a student did. The scores on each of the subject tests is an accurate predictor of how well a student will do in
their freshman year of college. For example, if a student receives an 18 or better on the English portion of the test, he or she has a high probability of success in a corresponding freshman English composition course in college. Specifically, the student has approximately a 50 percent chance of earning a B or better and approximately a 75 percent chance of earning a C or better in a freshman college English composition course. This is called an ACT College Readiness Benchmark. Scoring at least 18 on the English portion means the student has reached the benchmark for English. Benchmarks are based on continuously updated research conducted by ACT. Benchmarks vary for the four separate tests portions on the ACT. As stated, the English benchmark is 18. The benchmark for both math and reading is 22 and the benchmark for science is 23. Reaching the reading benchmark is a predictor of success in a social sciences course in college. The math benchmark correlates with a college algebra course and the science benchmark predicts success in a freshman biology class.
Students and parents should consider how many benchmarks have been reached when reviewing scores. Though the composite score is important, colleges are interested in whether a student is hitting each of the benchmarks. It is possible to increase the composite score without increasing the number of benchmarks reached. As mentioned above, the optional writing test is scored separately and differently from the other four tests. The essay written by the student is read by two different scorers. Each of the readers assign a score from 2 to 12 in four different domains for a total of eight scores. These scores are then averaged to the nearest whole number for the final writing score. Students and parents can learn more about understanding ACT scores by visiting ACT.org. — William Slater is the Dean of Adult Studies at Welch College. Located in Sumner County, Welch College offers over forty programs of study and serves students on campus and online. You may contact William at wslater@welch.edu.
M u s ic N ote s THE CONTROLLED SCREAM The famous Luciano Pavarotti, the greatest operatic tenor of the 20th century, was once asked how he sings the High C. His answer was, “basically, it’s a controlled scream.” A ‘scream’ in singing is a drastic concept, but to hear Pavarotti sing is to understand what he meant by the word ‘scream’ and to be aware that he used all of his voice, all of the time. This is not to say that he always sang loudly, but that he used his whole voice with great intensity in both his loud and soft singing. Many singers, both young and old, have trouble getting to their whole voices and are even afraid or embarrassed to make that kind of sound. Many can’t believe that a big sound like that can emanate from themselves. Sometimes in a vocal coaching session I will demonstrate by saying a phrase or a word in my full voice and I will say that it’s like yelling at someone across the parking lot. If they will do it, they soon realize that the full voice is within them. It’s hard for some to find that sound and easy for others, but when they do it’s like a revelation and they discover that much more was inside. It can be a wonderful experience that can take singers into brand new places of their vocal and musical lives.
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Some singers cringe at the idea of making an unpleasant or ugly sound and hesitate to go to this new place. I respond by saying that I have made thousands of really ugly sounds in practice or in a lesson and that you’ve got to make the ugly sounds before you can make the really beautiful sounds. Singers may actually be afraid that someone will hear them and possibly even judge them. As we go further into this complete sound, we can get to the place where we look forward to letting people hear us and share with others how we feel about a particular song when we sing it. It feels good to finally share ourselves with other people. God has given each of us gifts that we can use to serve Him. Our goal is to use those gifts to the best of our abilities. Singing is a gift and a privilege. The primary purpose of music is to glorify God and bless others. Sometimes we are the vessel and the method by which beautiful music is conveyed. Find out if you may be one of those vessels. — Neil Breeden, Vocal Coach neil@neilbreeden.com, 615-440-2263
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
October 2018
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T h e H om e F ront Peace Of Mind For You and Your Foundation ‘There are many reasons to have a contractor look over your home on a yearly basis. Whether it is servicing your HVAC system, checking for termites, evaluating the condition of the roof or inspecting your home’s foundation. Annual reviews like this can save you big bucks and headaches down the road. What to expect when a professional inspects your home’s foundation: The expert will check the structure and the earth around it to evaluate the situation and determine the best options for your home. Understanding the value of each option is also important when making your decision on the best solution for you. The inspector will help explain and educate you on the different options and the purpose of each, showing you what is possible. You can choose to fix the current problem or if necessary protect the structure from future movement. And always remember, it never hurts to get a second opinion! Some things to consider: 1. Have other homes around you have had similar problems? 2. What is the cost difference short term and long term to fix or protect? Most likely you only want to do this once. Cost may include: labor and materials (rising cost of steel); movement of Air conditioning unit, porch, and walk ways; your personal time. 3. Are you prepared to deal with any potential consequences if you choose to just fix your problem versus protecting from future problems? 4. Is the biggest concern cost or peace of mind? 5. Is the fix big or little? Should there be a sense of urgency?
OCTOBER LUNCHEON Tuesday, October 30 10:45am - 1:00pm Inman Conference Center Belmont University Wedgewood Avenue, Nashville Bobby Nelson Nelson Auto Group
EXHIBIT SPACE AND SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
REGISTER AT tnchristianchamber.org PARTNER SPONSORS
Foundation and concrete problems won't go away or fix themselves. They worsen over time, sometimes resulting in severe damage. The sooner these issues are addressed and permanently fixed, the more economical the solution and the less risk of danger or injury to you, your family or guests. These aren't just issues for those who own an older home, either. In a recent study, Consumer Reports found 15% of new homes had serious foundation repair needs. End goal: Your Peace of Mind This is your home, your decision. Get the facts. Consider the options. Ask about warranties. Choose the best permanent solution for your family. — Brittney Griffy, Frontier Basement Systems Marketing Manager, 615-5478701, www.christianbasement.com
Enjoy singing like never before with: • Enhanced Tone Quality • Increased Range • Pitch Accuracy • Easy Breathing
MUSIC CITY VOICE
Neil Breeden, Vocal Coach Singers of all types and styles and levels of experience have had great singing success coaching with Neil Breeden. PROFESSIONAL VOCAL COACH, NEIL BREEDEN
FELLOWSHIP SERVICE EDUCATION PRESENTING PARTNERS 8
Nashville Christian Family
615-440-2263 I neil@neilbreeden.com musiccityvoice.com
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
L egal M at te r s
So you want to start your business. Good, stop dreaming and go do it. Small businesses are a driving force in the economy that often employ others and evolve into large businesses. Aside from the actual concept, early concerns often focus on cashflow and keeping the lights on, and that’s understandable. But don’t ignore the legal issues, they are just as important. Not incorporating them into the initial plan can lead to serious headaches later on. Here are five areas to address when you start your business. First, how do you structure the business to protect your hard work? Setting up the right corporate structure is crucial. You want to grow the business without putting your personal assets at risk. The right structure is key, so get it in place right away. Second, are there intellectual property matters? Is there a product to patent or a name to trademark? You want to make money from your ideas not watch someone else make money from them. Even the company name may have trademark issues. Tread cautiously and get advice. Third, there are contracts to be reviewed and prepared. It’s easy to gloss over a contract with the idea that if you just work hard it will be ok. Don’t make that mistake - read the contract. Better yet, get a lawyer to read it for you and give you advice. Signing a contract now can shape your obligations for years to come. Fourth, get the right insurance. While not technically a legal issue, having the right coverage can mean the difference between surviving a crisis and closing your doors. Finally, if you have business partners you need an agreement in place that spells out things like ownership percentage, control and related things. Yes I know you’re family or they’re your friends and you trust them - that’s good. A solid agreement that spells out rights and obligations of all involved and can minimize problems and misunderstandings later. So, think through these items and talk to a lawyer. There are certainly other issues that can and will arise. A good lawyer can set up the business and help you navigate the rocky terrain. — Jim Catalano is an attorney and founding partner of The Catalano Firm, PLC. He has practiced law in Tennessee for over 20 years and understands the problems faced by small businesses having worked with them and litigated issues on their behalf. He believes that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When not practicing law, he enjoys spending time with his family and being outdoors.
Bundle up for savings
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sblume@allstate.com allstate.com/steve.blume
615-352-3334 601 A Old Hickory Blvd. Nashville
615-861-2321
246 A Wilson Pike Circle Brentwood
Proud member of the TN Christian Chamber of Commerce. Subject to terms, conditions & availability. Savings vary. Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co., Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. © 2018 Allstate Insurance Co.
October 2018
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Common Legal Problems for Small business owners
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S p ecial F eatu r e
Honoring Our Veterans Veterans Day Service
Spring Hill Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services takes pride in honoring our veterans. Each year a Veterans Day celebration takes place in the chapel of the facility. This year the service will be on the actual holiday, Sunday, Novermber 11th at 2:00 p.m. This service has been well attended throughout the years. Various groups of veterans are invited to attend along with the general public. Names are announced of any family member that has a loved one that is currently serving in the military. The oldest veteran that is in attendance is always honored. Guest speakers and special music is provided.
The Keynote Speaker will be a local veteran from a branch of our Armed Forces. We hope that you will be able to attend this meaningful event. — The Stephens Family
Named by Toast of Music City 2017 Best Funeral Home In Middle Tennessee
“Treasure every single moment in life 5239 Main St. Spring Hill, TN 37174 931-486--0059
3009 Columbia Pike Franklin, TN 37064 615-794-2289
www.springhill-memorial.com
www.williamsonmemorial.com
Annual Veterans Day Service All Veterans and their families are invited to our Veterans day service
Sunday, November 11, 2018 2:00 PM at Spring Hill Memorial 5239 Main Street, Spring Hill OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Named by Toast of Music City 2017 -
areserve here toyour serve your family and honor honor We are hereWe to family and the treasured memories of your loved one. the treasured memories of your loved one.”
Best Funeral Home In Middle Tennessee 10
Nashville Christian Family
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
S e n ior S ce n e
It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Season! Ah Fall is in the air! So you know what that means – yes it is Medicare open enrollment time. Starting Oct. 15th and ending Dec. 7th if you are on a Medicare Advantage (MA) Plan you have the option to make changes to your current carrier. This includes MAPD (Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug) plans or PDP (Prescription Drug Plan) or MA plans. Your current carrier’s plan is good through Dec. 31st and you will be receiving an ‘Annual Notice of Change’ (ANOC) letter (in late October or early November) stating the changes in your plan for 2019. If you have not had any issues with your plan and the changes for 2019 is acceptable to you, you need not do a thing – you will be renewed for the plan year 2019. “However” states Ben Davis, CSA (Certified Senior Advisor) “this is a great time to look at the other options available in your county/area”. He has been in the Medicare arena since 2005 and has seen many changes since MA plans started being sold in the middle Tennessee market. “Drug formularies change, tier co-pays change, co-insurance amounts change, and providers may change”. “It can be a bit overwhelming for the over 65 age group especially for those folks that are new to Medicare”. There are 3 options when it comes to selecting Medicare plans. Which option is right for you? “That depends and that is why you should seek out professional help to guide you to the best decision as it relates to your current situation” says Davis. That is what he has done since 2012. Do you want to have original Medicare (Parts A, B, and D), or add a Medicare Supplement (also known as Medi-gap), or is a MA/MAPD (parts A, B, C, and D) plan right for you? “We have been helping people for the last 6+ years by asking them questions they didn’t even know to ask and then make a decision based on that information”. Making sure Hospitals, Doctors, and providers accept a MA/MAPD plan is very important. Medicare Advantage plans have been in the Nashville area since 2006 and here is what is covered in these plans. There are 4 parts to Medicare: Part A is Hospital insurance coverage, Part B is Medical insurance coverage, Part C Medicare Advantage coverage, and Part D is Prescription Drug coverage. The types of Medicare Advantage plans are Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS), and Special Needs Plan (SNP). This information as well as other information can be found in the ‘Medicare & You 2019’ booklet that has just come out. So if you need help, have questions, or you are just getting started with Medicare coverage give Ben a call and let’s get the process started. See our ad on page 2. — H. Ben Davis, III, CSA, Select Pointe, LLC 615-584-4946 ben.davis@ selectpointe.com www.selectpointe.com
H ealthy L ivi ng
What is your favorite season of the year? A new survey says this season we are now in is number one. So many people love Fall. Are you looking forward to the cooler weather? The comfort food? The challenge to stay on task with weight loss? My wife and I are very much looking forward to taking advantage of the change in the season, by spending more time outdoors, since the humidity of summer is no longer an excuse. And get our “exercise on”, before the chill of winter because another exercise excuse. We are 6 months into our weight loss journey and we continue to see results thanks to the help of the encouragement and wisdom of the team of professionals at Cool Springs MD. Is someone journeying with you during this season of weight loss? If not, seek out accountability and encouragement from someone you can count on. With weight loss always on my radar, I came across some tips that are intended to help us lose weight at home. Read over and see if you think any of these could help you. 1. When you come home, enter through your FRONT door. You want to use the main entrance, not a side or back door that leads you through the kitchen. People who pass through the kitchen tend to graze, eating 15% more than those who don’t. 2. When you change into your after work clothes, think snug — not baggy. Wearing fitted clothes will make you more aware of your body and less likely to over-indulge. No, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort. Wear something you feel good in, but that allows you to see what you actually look like. 3. In the dining room trade your fork for chopsticks. You’ll be forced to eat more slowly and deliberately, which makes you consume less and feel fuller. Also, pull out the fancy plates you inherited from grandma. They were about 33% smaller in her day, which means more petite portions for you. 4. When you hit the sack set up a slim nightstand. Put a pitcher of water near your bed with sliced cucumbers in it. The vegetable is a natural diuretic, so it can help eliminate bloat overnight. What do you think? Any of those helpful? Personally, I’m challenged most by #2, since I just love the baggy feel at home but I can’t argue with the logic. What has helped you lose weight? Any tips you would like to share? I welcome your feedback, thoughts and ideas and look forward to sharing them in the coming months. You can email me at Doug@94FMTheFish.net or feel free to call me during my live radio show – weekdays between 3 pm – 7 pm on 94 FM The Fish. (800) 826-3637 — Doug Griffin
October 2018
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S p ecial F eatu r e
Dr. Ming Wang Perfects 3D LASIK Procedure Dr. Ming Wang, MD, PhD, of Wang Vision 3D Cataract & LASIK Center, Nashville, TN, introduced to the state the latest LASIK technology. Dr. Wang is currently the only surgeon in the state who performs 3D LASIK. “We were very excited to be the first to perform the 3D LASIK procedure,” said Dr. Wang, a clinical associate professor of ophthalmology for the University of Tennessee and the director of Wang Vision 3D Cataract & LASIK Center, Nashville, TN. LASIK is a surgical procedure After 3D LASIK surgery, Dr. Ming Wang, Harvard & MIT (MD); PhD The 3D LASIK procedure is the best! We would love for that corrects nearsightedness, (laser physics), examines and is satisfied with the patients eye proce- you to come in for an evaluation with Dr. Ming Wang, farsightedness, and astigdure. Patient care is our number one priority at Wang Vision Cataract Harvard & MIT (MD); PhD (laser physics). matism. Since the advent of and Lasik Center. LASIK 20 years ago, nearly 30 the 3D LASIK digital signal enhancement million LASIK procedures have been performed worldwide. However, despite technology, we digitally overlap preoperative eye maps and match that with the popularity of the procedure, the technology itself that has been used for the image of eye in real time during surgery. This gives us unprecedented LASIK has remained largely unchanged for many years. accuracy and precision to treat eye conditions such as astigmatism. Our 3D LASIK patients have been thrilled with their new vision and we have patients The new 3D image-guided high-definition LASIK represents an innovative from all over the U.S. and world who have come to Nashville for 3D LASIK”, improvement of LASIK. Dr. Wang explained, “In a standard LASIK proceDr. Wang added. dure, the surgeon looks through a traditional microscope with the naked eye. What you see is what you get. There is no image processing or signal — Dr. Ming Wang is a Harvard and MIT graduate enhancement. Therefore, since the eyeball is very small, there is limited res(MD, magna cum laude), PhD (laser physics), and olution and accuracy in the surgical procedure. In contrast, with the new 3D one of the few cataract and LASIK eye surgeons in LASIK, the surgeon uses the state-of-the-art high-definition microsurgical the world today who holds a doctorate degree in system. This provides a stereoscopic and digitally signal-enhanced view of laser physics. He has performed over 55,000 procethe entire surgical field. It allows the surgeon to achieve more precision with dures, including on over 4,000 doctors. Dr. Wang the laser focusing on the eye, and thus improves the accuracy of the LASIK has founded a 501c(3) non-profit charity which procedure and the quality of vision for our patients.” to date has helped patients from over 40 states in the U.S. and 55 countries, with all sight restoration “The driving force of modern 21st century technology is digitalization. This surgeries performed free-of-charge. is more accurate and precise than the traditional analog technologies. Using
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MING WANG, Harvard & MIT (magna cum laude); PhD (laser physics) Wang Vision 3D Cataract & LASIK Center 1801 West End Ave, Ste 1150 Nashville, TN, 37203 www.wangcataractLASIK.com • drwang@wangvisioninstitute.com
www.ChristianFamilyNashville.com
M i s s ion M ake r s For four years she was tortured, starved, and forced to survive on her own urine. She was raped and forced to kill. At age 10 Agnes was abducted by the LRA rebel group and held against her will. Peace, the little girl in the yellow dress, to the right, was once poisoned by her former caretaker because she was seen as a burden. When she survived the attack, her older sister took her in. The older sister has no way to earn a living but does casual labor to support her child-headed household. The harshness of life in Uganda is beyond imagination. As a mother, I cannot think of my own children sleeping on the ground or being attacked by malaria-ridden mosquitos. And while Sweet Sleep donors provide for beds and bedding here in Middle Tenn., they also reach around the world to give beds and mosquito nets, blankets and Bibles to precious children who deeply appreciate American help, attention, and love. Vulnerable women work in groups of 12-15 to form a co-op, provided by Sweet Sleep donors. They raise goats, chickens, or pigs; they make and sell liquid soap. And while a group business grows, each woman can take out a Village Savings and Loan amount to start a small business. In three years and 48 co-ops, ALL participants have paid back 100% of borrowed funds, with zero default! This Christmas season, give the gift of Sweet Sleep–of true rest for the weary–in honor of your own children. • Consider becoming one of our Sweet Sleep partners with a $50 gift that provides all the items listed above.
Peace, the girl in the yellow dress is alive because of a co-op.
• Contact us for bookmark kits to make as a family during the holiday months ahead. • Collect new twin sheets or blankets for beds in our community. The beds provide rest for the children. The co-ops break the poverty cycle once and for all and offer true rest for the mothers, grandmothers and aunts who can now send their children to school. True Rest for the Weary is a reality thanks to you! Would you consider getting involved today? — Lisa Wilson, VP of Donor Engagement, Sweet Sleep, 20-5757551, 116 Wilson Pike Circle, Suite 100, Brentwood, TN 37027, 615-730-7671 lisa@sweetsleep.org, www.sweetsleep.org/donate
The Catalano Firm, PLC Experience When it Matters Most BUSINESS • CONTRACTS • INJURY • LITIGATION • REAL ESTATE • WILLS
HIRING THE RIGHT ATTORNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. Call or E-mail
615-945-2307 jim@catalanofirm.com
Jim Catalano Attorney-at-Law
Over 20 years of experience • www.catalanofirm.com October 2018
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M on ey M at te r s
T ech T alk
Fix It, Or Buy Another?
Technology Changing the Attitude of Society
Dear Dave, I’m driving a 12-year-old car with 210,000 miles on it. The car needs close to $2,000 in repairs, and it’s worth $5,000. I have $40,000 in cash saved, $40,000 in investments, and I make $80,000 a year. I also have $15,000 in student loan debt, but the only other thing I owe on is my house. Should I pay to repair the car, or buy something else in the $15,000 price range? Brett Dear Brett, Let’s see, if you wrote a $15,000 check for a newer car and wrote a $15,000 check for the student loans, it would leave you with $10,000. I wouldn’t buy a $15,000 car in your situation. I’d buy a $10,000 car. You could probably sell the old one for around $3,000 if it needs repairs, combine that with your money and get a $13,000 car. Then, you could write a check and pay off the student loan debt. With no car payment, no student loan payment, and a good car, you can really lean into your budget and saving money. You’d have no debt except your home, and you could rebuild your savings in a hurry. You’d be in really good financial shape in about six months. Plus, you’d have $15,000 in the bank in the meantime!
A Burden To Help? Dear Dave, Do you believe the adult child of a senior citizen, who is physically and mentally healthy but has neglected to plan for retirement, should be burdened with providing financial assistance to that parent? Robbie Dear Robbie, Based on the wording in your question, I can only believe you don’t think the adult child should be “burdened” to provide this assistance. My guess is you’re talking about one of your own parents. I understand that you might be aggravated with a parent who has been irresponsible with their money. But in my mind, there’s a bigger question. How big is the burden? I talked to a guy recently who was making $1.5 million a year. He was questioning whether he should help his dad — an older man in poor health, who didn’t handle his money well — by giving him $1,000 a month. There’s no question you give that guy money. You’re making millions, but you don’t want to help your sick dad? Come on! But if you bring home $2,000 a month, and your family is barely getting by, you’re not morally required to financially take care of a parent who was irresponsible with their money. It’s all relative. Do you have the money? Can you provide this help without placing an undue burden on yourself and your family? If the answer is yes, you may be asking more about your own aggravation than any sort of moral obligation. But no, you’re not morally obligated to destroy your own life, or your family, to take care of a relative who didn’t take care of themselves financially. — Dave Ramsey is CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven best-selling books, including The Total Money Makeover. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 14 million listeners each week on 600 radio stations and multiple digital platforms. Follow Dave on the web at daveramsey.com and on Twitter at @DaveRamsey.
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Nashville Christian Family
There have been conversations about the reason why society is so “short tempered”. They have concluded that it is due to the excessive use of technology, who has changed who we are as people. Bentley University professor Greg Hall, who teaches a Cyberpsychology course that explores how the pace at which technology advances without giving us a chance to adapt affects our sense of self. He stated, "If we're in this mode of constant change, social anxiety increases.” The cause of this is the shift from evolutionary change to the much faster revolutionary change. While the original phone remained unchanged from the 1900s to 1980s, while smartphones today are ready for an upgrade every two year or sometimes less.This increase in technology advances and uses are creating psychological issues within people. Some of the issues are: 1. Low Attention Span- The brain has certain limitations about how much information it can process simultaneously. So, while most students may say that they can text or be on social media during class and listen to lectures… the brain doesn’t work that way. 2. Decreased Patience- Because we can have everything at the touch of our fingers through technology, patience has become something that we don't have or use as much. We get upset if our computer takes too long to come on, and road rage is becoming increasingly more common. Just the other day my friend had someone in the vehicle behind her who was very impatient and waved a knife at her because the driver felt that she was driving to slow, not knowing that she was having mechanical problems with her car. 3. Poor Social Development-Teens and 20-somethings prefer to interact through technology, and they'll tell you that. This has caused a lack in being able to interact socially face to face or even simple phone conversation with an individual due to the increase of technology being used socially. 4. TMI- To Much Information - Given the tremendous amount of resources and data available on the internet, a lot can be asked of students in terms of information gathering and project turnaround time. But the ability to transform information into knowledge through the process analysis and synthesis is too often lacking. Pew Research Center reported that 88 percent of teen social media users believe people share too much information about themselves on social media. 5. Skewed Reality- Social media paints a skewed perception of life. Most time people on post the best-case scenarios, even though their actual reality is totally different. Those who usually watch news feeds of individuals pasting this usually end up being depressed afterwards. 6. Dangerous Anonymity- Pew Research found that 40 percent of adult internet users have personally experienced online harassment, most of it involving things like name-calling or attempts to embarrass someone. As I’ve stated in previous article, based off the research I have done, technology has shaped who we are not just as individual, but also as a society. We have become “microwaved” and want things instantly in the palms of our hands. I’m not saying to give up technology and live back in the stone age, but take sometime out in your everyday life to have a mental break from technology, and see if you see an improvement in your attitude. — Dashia B. Brandon, Trevecca Nazarene University, Student
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THE AT THE
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October 2018
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In the parlor of an elegant Victorian home just a block from Bell Buckle, Tennessee’s historic downtown, Russ Taff and his wife of 42 years, Tori, relax on a deep sofa piled with pillows. A shelf in the corner displays a row of gold Grammy Awards, the only visible accolades of a man whose groundbreaking four-decade career has made him one of the most influential voices in the music world. Far from the glare of the stage, the Taffs’ home is a place of respite and serenity. It’s both grand and gracious—like the couple themselves. Enjoying their little slice of heaven in Bedford County, it would be easy to assume Russ and Tori are slowing down a bit, but the opposite is true. Nestled close on the sofa, their frequent, knowing glances are a reminder of the miles they’ve traveled together—literally and emotionally. They are poised for their story to be shared, and later this month “Russ Taff: I Still Believe” will do just that. A powerful documentary from award-winning director Rick Altizer, the film—premiering in nearly 600 movie theaters around the country for onenight only on October 30—lets the world in on a secret only a few close friends and family had previously known: Russ Taff is an alcoholic. But the real focal point of this story is the forgiveness and freedom he’s embraced on the path of recovery, and he’s eager to extend a hand of mercy to those walking a similar road. “I'm a believer in looking ahead, not behind, but sometimes only time and distance can bring everything into perspective,” Russ explains of sharing his private journey in such a public way. “Forgiveness, healing, restoration— I am living proof that Jesus is still about His Father's business, one broken person at a time." "Vulnerability is scary, but our prayer is that the story of God's love reaching right down into the middle of our messy, imperfect lives will offer hope and courage to other struggling families," adds Tori. Hailed by Billboard magazine as “the single most electrifying voice in Christian music,” Russ has garnered six Grammy Awards, 18 Gospel Music Associ-
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Nashville Christian Family
ation Dove Awards and has been inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame an unprecedented three times—as a soloist, as well as a member of the Imperials and the Gaither Vocal Band. He is also a member of the Christian Music Hall of Fame and the Arkansas Walk of Fame. Growing up in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Russ’ strict parents forbid “secular” music at home, so Russ and his siblings were raised on a steady diet of Mahalia Jackson and The Statesmen Quartet—their mother’s records. In high school Russ bought a guitar and formed a band, The Sounds of Joy, and he never looked back. “The principal let us play during assembly,” he remembers. “We did two songs, and I invited the students to our little church. We began meeting on Monday nights at church and I would ask if anybody would like to receive Christ and the altar would be full. At school, boys would come up to me in the locker room and say, ‘Russ, how do I find Jesus?’ and I would pray with them in study hall. A great revival broke out and much of the student body came to know Jesus.” A few years later the Imperials—trailblazers of the contemporary Christian music movement of the 1970s—came to Arkansas and The Sounds of Joy opened the show. Russ made a lasting impression that night and when the Imperials were in need of a new member, Russ received a life-changing call.
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“They said, ‘We remember your voice. Why don’t you come to Nashville and try out?’ So, I took my little Ford Pinto and headed to Tennessee. That afternoon I sang with the group and that evening they hired me. I joined the Imperials when I was 22, and I’ve been riding buses ever since,” Russ adds with a smile.
Throughout every season of his career—unbeknownst to the world—Russ struggled with depression and eventually a secret alcohol addiction, unable to escape the heartache and shame of his tumultuous past. Although he could go years at a time without a drink, the loss of his father, and then his mother’s death, opened old wounds and Russ’ addiction gripped tighter than ever.
The voice behind such quintessential hits as “Praise the Lord,” “Trumpet of Jesus” and “I’m Forgiven,” Russ’ tenure with the Imperials was a formative time, and he was thrilled to be sharing it with his new bride, Tori. The two had met while Russ was serving as a youth minister. She walked into the church one night and “my world stopped,” he recalls. “They say you’ll know when you know and when I saw her, that was it for me. I started bringing her to our Sounds of Joy concerts, and the more I was around her, the more I was falling in love.” A new marriage and a new career made for an exciting season in the young couple’s life. Experiencing the world beyond Hot Springs was eye-opening for Russ, a self-proclaimed country boy. “We won three Grammys while I was with the Imperials. At the show, I’m wearing a tux and I walk in and see Bruce Springsteen and Michael Jackson and I feel so out of place. We’re singing ‘Sail On’ and I look down in the audience and there’s Sting and James Taylor,” he remembers. His stint with the Imperials laid the foundation for what would become an extraordinary solo career. To date, Russ has recorded 11 solo projects, including industry benchmarks Medals (1985), Russ Taff (1987) and Under Their Influence (1991), and his classic singles include “We Will Stand,” “I’m Not Alone," "Not Gonna Bow" and “Love Is Not A Thing.” Russ’ soul-drenched voice and raw, passionate delivery are hallmarks of his unparalleled artistry, a sound that has influenced the likes of Amy Grant, MercyMe’s Bart Millard, Michael W. Smith and Newsboys’ Michael Tait, among numerous others.
“As soon as he started drinking, he started drinking alcoholically,” Tori says. “Never was it about the taste, it was about getting numb as quickly as possible. Our life was blowing up, our marriage was blowing up, but I couldn’t see that it was alcohol because I wasn’t seeing him drunk. He was moody and angry. He was like a fist, completely turned inward.”
“Russ Taff: I Still Believe,” a gripping documentary chronicling the beloved vocalist's unparalleled musical journey and behind-the-scenes battle with alcoholism, will premiere in movie theaters nationwide October 30. The one-night Fathom Events presentation is a story of hope, showcasing the multi-Grammy and Dove Award-winning superstar’s ultimate embrace of God’s healing and restoration. In addition, the film will feature appearances from such legendary artists and entertainers as Amy Grant, MercyMe’s Bart Millard, Michael W. Smith, Newsboys’ Michael Tait, Bill Gaither, and comedians Mark Lowry and Chonda Pierce, among others.
“I went through a period of being angry at God,” Russ admits. “All I ever wanted to do was sing for Him, and I wasn’t doing it. I saw what my problems were doing to Tori what my dad had done to me. It broke my heart that I was traumatizing her the way my dad traumatized me.” Stints in substance abuse rehab were helpful over the years, but Russ finally turned a corner when he began dealing with the root of the problem—why he drank. Intense trauma therapy allowed him to peel back the layers of his old wounds and address the hurt and unforgiveness in his heart. He took responsibility for his actions and finally fully embraced the boundless love and mercy of his Savior. “About three years ago the Gospel Music Association gave me a lifetime achievement award. At the ceremony I bowed my head and began to weep,” Russ shares. “Tori asked me on the way home, ‘Why were you crying on such a night of celebration?’ I said, ‘Tori, if it hadn’t been for Jesus I wouldn’t be standing up there. I would probably be dead the way I was going. If anybody should get that award, it should be you and Jesus, because I know me.’”
Never one to be typecast, Russ’ versatility later enFor tickets, visit deared him to Southern Gospel audiences, and he was www.fathomevents.com. a member of the world-renowned Gaither Vocal Band Seeing life come full-circle is overwhelming for Russ at from 2001-2004. A familiar face at Gaither Homecomtimes. Although he realized his childhood dream of a ing events for many years, Russ forged lifelong friendships in the Southern career singing for Jesus, so many of those years were devoid of joy, marred Gospel family. by his secret struggle. Russ lived in a prison of shame, held captive from the abundant life he sang about night after night. And that’s exactly what he and Yet at the pinnacle of his success, Russ Taff was hurting deeply. On the outTori now want to offer others: Hope. side he was a Christian music superstar, a loving husband and father of two beautiful daughters, but on the inside, he was emotionally bankrupt, robbed “I’m a living testimony of what the power of Christ can do in a person’s life,” by the pain and shame of childhood trauma. Russ says triumphantly. “You’ve got to be laser-focused on the prize, and the prize for me was getting my life and my family back. I thought I was The son of a Pentecostal preacher, Russ clearly remembers his own father’s abandoned. I thought I was all alone. But as I began to look back, I saw Him struggle with alcohol. Bouts of binge drinking caused the elder Taff to be fired everywhere. He was with me when I was seven years old and Daddy got from multiple church pulpits over the years. Russ’ mother, shouldering the drunk. He was there that first time I got drunk and my heart was broken. He weight of family dysfunction, channeled her pain as rage and it took a toll on would go down into mud and dirt to get me. I'm a child of the King! His royal her children, particularly Russ, in whom she regularly confided her despair. blood now flows through my veins.” “I had a key to the church and I would go down there late at night and sit on the altar and talk to Jesus and tell Him how scared I was,” Russ shares. “That started a relationship between Jesus and me. Not only was He my Savior, but He was someone I could talk to. I would tell Him I wish I could leave, but I didn’t know where to go.”
From the heart of Bell Buckle to the bright lights of the silver screen, Russ and Tori Taff simply hope their journey will reflect the goodness and grace of Jesus for others in need. There will be time to sip sweet tea on the front porch later, but right now they have a story to tell. — Emily Kohl
October 2018
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O u r H ou s e
Thank You Welcome Wagon! Way back in 1975, my new wife and I were just settling into our new tiny apartment on the poorest side of Memphis so I could finish my last two years of school. We were on a meager budget, so the Welcome Wagon lady was truly a welcome visitor. She left us with a large envelope full of coupons and trinkets, most with the name of a local insurance agent or restaurant. In that envelope was a cheap yellow bottle opener with orange flowers on the front and a magnet on the back. Standing in that little 4' x 4’ kitchen, the first "out of sight" place I could find to stick it was underneath the front right lip of the harvest gold vent hood. And there it has remained for 43 years.
Well, not exactly on THAT one, but every vent hood in every apartment or house we lived for the next 43 years. My first job out of school moved us five times in six years. The magnet held that opener firmly in place under green, almond and harvest gold hoods, all in the same spot. We moved our magnetic bottle opener back home to Nashville with us. Over the years, visiting friends knew where to find the opener, even if they had never been in that particular home. After the welcoming hugs and while continuing to talk, they would walk into the kitchen, pull a bottle from the fridge, reach under the vent hood for the opener, pop the top, then stick the opener back under there without ever missing a beat. The bottle cap remained in hand while exploring for a trash can, but they knew where the bottle opener lived. I have NEVER had to look for a bottle opener for 43 years. We have an upscale, ergonomically designed bottle opener that is really nice, but it stays in the drawer. I still reach for my little yellow guy under our modern stainless steel hood for sentimental reasons. Some things you can always count on, and he stood by me all those years. Today, I am that insurance agent who distributes magnetic bottle openers to new movers and young couples along with my story. I pray that one will end up years from now in a very blessed home like ours and someone will pass along a similar story. If you want one for yourself or someone special, just ask me at 615-352-3334 or sblume@allstate.com. — Steve Blume
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P ar e nti ng P oi nts
What Happens In a Foster Care Home Evaluation? In addition to all your background checks and a family study, a foster care caseworker will come to your home for a Home Evaluation. While this probably varies greatly from state to state and even agency to agency, here’s a good idea of some things to expect. Some of them are obvious, but some of them really surprised me the first time! 1. They will flush your toilet. Not kidding. They watched the water go down and come back up in our potty! (They have to make sure the plumbing works.) 2. They will run your sink to make sure the water gets hot. Have any handy conversation starters for when you’re in the bathroom while a stranger holds her hand under your running sink? I didn’t. 3. Read carefully about your state and county’s firearms/weapons policies (and their storage if applicable). For us, a firearm and ammunition must be stored separately and locked separately. 4. They will look at your cleaning products and medicine storage. Make sure everything is up high where little hands can’t reach, that all containers are clearly labeled, and that all potentially dangerous substances are locked up. 5. You will need a date-stamped fire extinguisher accessible near every source of fire or flame. (We are required to show separate ones for our fireplace and gas stove even though they are nearby.) 6. They will test all the smoke detectors… as in press the button down on every one to make them
up!) We have to showcase 911, poison control, police/fire, and gas emergency. My mom is also on that paper because Grandma is always the #1 contact for our everyday “emergencies”! 10. They will check your bedrooms. All of them. (There’s nowhere to hide the wash you didn’t finish; just embrace it.) Each child needs a bed, so they have to visibly count.
scream. Lesson learned: don’t schedule a home evaluation when you have a little one sleeping! You need one on each floor of your home, including the attic and/or basement. 7. Our agency requires two posted (and visible) “no smoking” signs on the main living floor of our home. I got pretty ones so they blended a little better with the décor and my living room didn’t suddenly feel like a Pub. 8. Our agency requires a posted fire escape plan on the main floor. Keep in mind, my house is small enough that there isn’t an angle I found from which I couldn’t see either the front or back door. Still, I had to get out my crayons and graph paper to outline my house to draw colorful arrows that pointed to the exits. Safety first. 9. Emergency phone numbers have to be posted, visibly. (We have the side of our fridge reserved for foster-care-related signage, because it adds
11. If you’re looking to host young children, they will check for outlet safety and make sure your extension cords or long lamp cords are stored securely. (In our case, we changed all our outlets to child safety outlets were acceptable rather than messing with the push-in plastic pieces.) 12. They asked questions about our pets, our neighbors, and our stairs. They also checked the backyard for basic hazards (like holes and ungated swimming pools, not like uneven pavers). While the Home Evaluation seems like a simple “check” on the long list of items toward becoming an approved family, I was in for some definite surprises. I hope this helps as you prepare and consider this great calling! — Kelley Rose Waller - Kelley and her husband Matt are Pennsylvania foster parents and have two biological sons. Kelley lives and writes to uplift and glorify the name of Jesus Christ. Her debut novel, The Senator's Youngest Daughter, was released in 2016. www.kelleyrosewaller.com.
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S p ecial F eatu r e
SECOND ANNUAL
Bon Aqua Bluegrass Festival
October 27-28
Headliners include Ralph Stanley II & Clinch Mountain Boys, Remington Ryde “The Bon Aqua Bluegrass Festival” is back for a second year in an October 27-28 weekend presentation scheduled to include an exciting, expanded two-day celebration of top artists and authentic bluegrass music set on the historic 100 acre “Hideaway Farm” in Bon Aqua, Tennessee—former creative home of music legend Johnny Cash. The two day, family-friendly event will kick-off Saturday, October 27 with performances by Ralph Stanley II & The Clinch Mountain Boys and Remington Ryde. The Sunday line-up add a gospel flavor to the bluegrass and will include performances by Blue Mother Tupelo, Dan Oxley, and the Storyteller’s Country Show featuring a tribute to the legacy of Johnny Cash with performances by brother Tommy Cash, nephew Mark Alan Cash, and grandson Thomas Gabriel. Remington Ryde will also return to take the Sunday spotlight. Other artists set to perform over the two days include Larry Stephenson, Nothin’ Fancy, David Langley, and Rachel Dawson.
Thomas Gabriel
Backdrop for the entire event at The Hideaway Farm in Bon Aqua will be the newly created rustic outdoor theater adjacent to the pre-Civil war log home Johnny Cash owned for more Mark Alan Cash than 30 years and called “the center of my uni& Rachel Dawson verse.” Concert- goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to take full advantage of the expansive scenic “open air” farm setting surrounding the main stage. Food trucks and merchandise stands will also be featured onsite. The weekend festival’s two day ticket combo for the event is scaled at $40.00 in advance-$50.00 at the door. Per day admissions: October 27--$30.00 advance/$40.00 at the door. October 28--$20.00 advance--$30.00 at the door.
SATURDAY, OCT. 27 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM— 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM -- 3:30 PM –
Festival Schedule
Site open. Remington Ryde Larry Stephenson Nothin Fancy Ralph Stanley II & Clinch Mountain Boys.
SUNDAY, OCT. 28: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM – 1:45 PM – 3:15 PM – 4:45 PM –
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Site Open. Remington Ryde, Dan Oxley –Gospel praise & worship. Remington Ryde Blue Mother Tupelo The Storytellers Musicians Country Show featuring Mark Alan Cash, Tommy Cash, Thomas Gabriel.
Nashville Christian Family
Iconic Tennessee Setting For A “Must See” Fall Music Event
Children under 12 (accompanied by guardian) are admitted free. Parking is free both days with all admissions to the event. Advance tickets are now on sale through Eventbrite and may be purchased online at the event site: www.bonaquabluegrass.com Tickets are also available in advance onsite at The Storytellers Museum in Bon Aqua.
ABOUT THE STORYTELLERS MUSEUM: Housed within the recently opened “Storytellers Museum” in Bon Aqua, the new home of the historic “Little Stage” was originally the landmark General Store. Equipped later with a recording studio and used by Johnny Cash as the stage for regular Hickman County “guitar pulls” that included Cash family members— June, The Carter Family and Roseanne Cash — and friends like Carl Perkins – the site has deep music roots. The old General Store is now beautifully restored as “The Storytellers Museum” -- and the “welcome Tommy Cash mat” is out to a new generation of music lovers -- and storytellers. Cash memorabilia, including The “One Piece At A Time” car, as well as other rare one-of-a kind treasures, are on display for visitors. The Little Stage is now also open and regularly featuring live music.
David Langley
ABOUT THE HIDEAWAY FARM: Just over the hill from the “Storytellers Museum,” nestled in the rolling landscape of Hickman County, sits the pre-Civil War log home and 107-acre farm owned for more than 30 years by Johnny Cash. Considered his private retreat, The Hideaway Farm houses the creative spirit and the musical history of its former owner – who called the land and the stately rustic home, “the center of my universe.” The site is open to the public for regular daily and weekend tours. Located just 40 minutes west of downtown Nashville, both The Storytellers Museum and The Hideaway Farm are rapidly becoming the newest “must see” music destinations in Middle Tennessee. DIRECTIONS: The Storytellers Hideaway Farm is located at 9347 Old Highway 46, Bon Aqua, Tennessee, just a short drive from Nashville. From Nashville, take I-40 West to exit #172 in Dickson. Phone: (931) 996-4336. — Jackie Monaghan is Creative Director of Nashville based Morningstar PR. She can be reached at (615) 646-5990. morningstarpr@comcast.net
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Saturday, October 27 AND Sunday, October 28, 2018 BONAQUABLUEGRASS.COM REMINGTON RYDE
RALPH STANLEY II AND THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS
NOTHIN’ FANCY
LARRY STEPHENSON BAND
BLUE MOTHER TUPELO
storytellersmuseum.com • 931-996-4336 October 2018
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C it y S ce n e
Family Fun This Fall I can’t think of a better place to spend Fall than Franklin Tennessee! The cooler air, the color of the leaves, and all the wonderful sights, sounds and tastes of Franklin! The first Friday of each month, take a tour of the Franklin Art Scene, which includes dozens of sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places in downtown Franklin. The free event celebrates Williamson County’s local craftsmanship, and provides both the novice and the art connoisseur an opportunity to see a sweeping variety of magnificent work–from blown glass to turned wood to mixed media and more.
F aith @ W or k
My Growing Faith And The Next Download Your mission in life is often revealed to you, one “download” at a time. Moses was shown only a part, and then another, and then another, and finally he could see a mighty, ordered army, marching by tribe, with colored banners for each, the tabernacle carried in the center, moving towards their destiny. As they crossed Jordan, they looked nothing like the mob that left Egypt in Exodus chapter 14. How had it all happened? One “download” of truth and application at a time, which is often how our faith is growing.
You can never go wrong with a Farmers Market, and we have two to choose from: Franklin Farmer’s Market and Leiper’s Fork Farmers Market. From produce, fruit and dairy to baked goods and meats, you’ll find delicious fresh food at these Markets, And it all comes straight from the farm to the market, ripe and ready to enjoy. The Franklin Farmer’s Market is at the Factory every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the Leiper’s Fork Farmer’s Market is every Thursday from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy the beautiful fall weather by taking advantage if our scenic hiking trails not far away from downtown Franklin. Immerse yourself in Franklin’s rich history by taking in a movie at the restored Franklin theatre, or touring one of the many historic sites such as Carnton, Carter House and Lotz House. Finally, you definitely won’t want to miss Pumpkin Fest! Middle Tennessee’s largest Fall Festival on October 27th, the Saturday before Halloween. Bring the whole family to enjoy this free festival event jam packed with arts and crafts vendors, costume contests, live entertainment, a free kids zone, circus performers, extreme pumpkin carvers and more. If your travels bring you by Cool Springs, stop into Hyundai of Cool Springs for a hot coffee or snack, or to get your vehicle ready for winter. No matter where you go or what you do, I’m sure you’ll agree, Franklin is the place to be in the Fall! — Jason Stacy, Owner of Hyundai and Genesis of Cool Springs, 1.877.886.8448 HyundaiOfCoolSprings.com, GenesisOfCoolSprings.net
If you have a computer, you have to download the operating system, and a word processor or data program like those in Microsoft Office, and then a printer file, before you can download and be able to print what you wrote! Write all you want, compose something you want to share with the world; but if you did not download the necessary systems and programs and files that communicate with the computer printer, forget about it. You can't print. Moses at first was only told enough to get him before Pharaoh. Once he delivered the plague “downloads,” and then led the nation of Israel across the Red Sea, he had to go to and ascend the mountain of Sinai to receive more instructions: the law, the legal code that would bring order to the mob. Without that law and divine order, such an unruly bunch would never be able to coordinate the work for a beautiful Tabernacle. Once it was built, another download; learning how to travel towards the Promised Land, tribe by tribe, in order. A large download of priest instructions also came, called Leviticus. And so it was—one download, one series of instructions after another. Why? To receive it all at once, simultaneously, back in Exodus chapter three, would have fried Moses' little brain! My ministry over the past twenty years, River of Life/Rio de Vida, has evolved this way. I was given four spheres by God to develop. As the spheres grew, they began to relate to each other. A rhyme of travel and work began to emerge. Then, other workers got interested, and over time proved themselves not only dedicated but faithful and loyal. Now they are being raised up as board members and fellow workers in many places. Had I tried to choose these people 15 years ago, when I barely knew my own way as the visionary and founder, complete confusion would have resulted because I would not have been able to explain to the co-workers what to do and why. God reveals the plan one step, one “download” at a time, and He has excellent reasons for doing so. He has been “downloading” truth in you. As you respond and obey, the next download is coming. From glory to glory, His Word is transforming you. — Mark Simpson
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Nashville Christian Family
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Joel Angulo 615.642.4492 20 years experience October 2018
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H as s le F r e e Z on e What is Water Hammer & How to Prevent It Water hammer and its effects If you've ever heard a loud bang when your washing machine stops its filling cycle or a thumping when you turn off a faucet, you've heard water hammer. Water hammer is a shock wave inside your pipes that results from water turning off suddenly, and the result is shaking pipes and banging noises. Water hammer isn't just annoying. It can cause damage to pipes, joints, connections, and fittings. If it continues for too long, you could experience water leaks or costly repairs. How to reduce and prevent water hammer There are several ways to reduce the effects of water hammer on your pipes. High water pressure is the general cause of water hammer, so the first step is to check the water pressure levels in your home. If the pressure exceeds 80 psi, it may be best to install a pressure regulator on the water main line. Besides excessive water pressure at the main valve, water hammer can also be caused by water or debris in air chambers. If the plumbing in your home is older you may not have any air chambers installed. If a single appliance seems to be causing your water hammer, you can install a water hammer arrestor. Arrestors will absorb the water jolt that comes
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Nashville Christian Family
from water valves closing suddenly which should stop the hammer noise from bothering you. Lastly, it's always important to make sure your pipes are mounted securely and fixed in place. Not properly secured pipes shake freely when water runs through them providing an ideal setting for water hammer. Keep your home's plumbing worry free If water hammer is bothering you, High water pressure is the the first step is to call a plumbing general cause of water professional. Waiting too long may hammer lead to water leaks or expensive repairs. To make sure your home’s plumbing system is inspected each year, consider signing up for a Lee Company Home Maintenance Plan. As a member, you'll receive annual plumbing inspections to make sure everything water-related in your home is working properly. And if you suspect water hammer is a concern, our technicians are here to provide an answer you can trust. — Dan Kalman, Senior Vice President of Home Services Lee Company
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October 2018
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H om e T own H e ro Life Changing Goals
MEET US BEFORE WE MEET YOU!
Like most young professionals, local resident Corey Alexander enjoys the movies, his two dogs named Blue and Bailey, and exercising (specifically weight lifting). He is married, and both have strong careers and bright futures. He has clearly set and achieved goals for himself, yet he has always wanted to make a meaningful difference in others’ lives. “I feel that we all have a duty to give back to others who may be Corey Alexander with Makaro Primary School in need or who are less fortunate Students in Kenya than we are. Serving others has always been a passion of mine and I will always make service over self a priority.” As a young person, he started with what he knew best – sports. He was a two-sport athlete at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. While serving others, he noted many high school students with strong potential who had been given little collegiate preparation. He felt drawn to help them prepare for college mentally and physically. He looked around for a nonprofit to assist, realized one did not already exist, and used his gift of achieving goals to found College Bound Athletics (CBA). In five short years this pioneering nonprofit has assisted approximately 600 young people achieve their collegiate goals, changing some family trees for generations to come. “I am willing to help anywhere that I may be needed,” he eagerly says. Anywhere. For example he chose to travel on a Cross Point Church mission trip to Kenya to assist the community of Kahuria with sustainability projects and interact with students at Makaro Primary School. "The Kenya trip was a life-changing experience. The beauty and power of God in that place can be felt all around you. I am excited to return and assist in the community next year." Additional nonprofits Corey has been involved with are the American Red Cross Nashville Area, Habitat of Greater Nashville, the Ross Center Foundation for Mental Health, the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and The Frist Arts Museum where he continues to serve on the board. His service has varied from holding food drives and clothing drives to hammering nails to walls to fundraising and advocating by talking with residents throughout the community. After his being named an upcoming Nashville’s Volunteer of the Month, he began serving on the board of Doing Good where he helps this entrepreneurial nonprofit achieve its goals. Corey says, “There is always someone in needs and God gave me hands to work and heart to help. I am excited about Nashville's future and continuing to do God's work in this community and wherever He leads me to next.” Clearly his priorities of God, family, and service along with his commitment to helping others achieve their goals set up Corey for an exciting and meaningful future – for him and for our community.
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Nashville Christian Family
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A n E ncou r ag i ng W or d This is the question my five-year-old son asked me yesterday. We were huddled together on the porch with my wife Lauren and our two daughters, watching the pine trees in our back yard being whipped around by the wind. It’s a good question.
A second lesson Florence may teach us is of the greatness of God. Even as we stand in awe of the overwhelming power of hurricane-force winds and deluges of water, we should remember that there is nothing more powerful than God and his words. God created the wind and the waves.
If God is as good and as powerful as the Bible says he is, then why would he allow a hurricane like Florence to devastate the Carolina coast, where it has taken the lives of at least seven people already and made thousands of other people homeless? Where is God during the hurricane?
As Jesus demonstrated when he lived among us, the wind and waves still obey his voice. The disciples of Jesus were not warmed and comforted by this fact. They saw in Jesus a power more astounding than a hurricane, and it led them to a more profound fear (cf. Mark 4:41). When we stand before the power of the storm, we should let our feelings of fear and awe remind us of our dependence on God.
Lauren and I struggled to give a response that would satisfy the curiosity of a five-year-old. But as difficult as it is to grapple with the existence of natural evils, there are some lessons we can all learn in the midst of their devastation. The first is that God does not delight in disaster. When God created the world, he ordered it in such a way that human beings could flourish. The Bible’s creation account repeatedly refers to the world as “good” and “very good.” And at the time of creation, human beings had a perfect relationship with God, with each other, and with the world around them. It was not God who broke this perfect paradise, but humans.
P l an
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S alvation
Third, while natural disasters bring tragedy, they also can bring out the best in humanity. We’ve already heard several stories of heroism and sacrifice during Hurricane Florence. We learned of rescuers who risked their lives to trying to save a family trapped underneath a fallen tree and collapsed roof. There were reports that thousands of volunteers—through organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse and North Carolina Baptist Disaster Relief— have joined emergency teams to provide medical assistance, makeshift shelters, and hot meals for victims of the disaster.
Fourth, in light of such acts of love and courage, a hurricane such as Florence could be a catalyst to bring some healing to our deeply divided nation. In the midst of the gale-force winds and surging water, Americans of every political stripe are working together to rescue the trapped, heal the wounded, and feed the hungry. As a country, we are never greater than when we respond to disaster with unity. In the end, the most powerful answer to, “Where is God in the midst of Hurricane Florence?” is, “He is right here with us.” As I tried to explain to my small children, God entered the suffering of our world on a mission to end it. Not only is he familiar with tragedy and loss, but he willingly laid down his life to put evil to death forever. Jesus’ death on the cross proves the lengths he will go to identify with us in our suffering. In the meantime, before he returns, these evils offer us an opportunity to respond to the needs of our world with courage, faith, and love. And that is something that even a five-year-old can understand. — Bruce Ashford is the Provost of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. THIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED BY FOX NEWS ON SEPTEMBER 15, 2018
Has something in the magazine or something you have discussed with someone or some thoughts that you have had or something that you have heard, brought you to a point of realizing that you want and need to know Christ in the truest and personal sense?
If so, below is a simple outline for someone of any age who is not a Believer to act on their desire to accept Jesus Christ into their heart as their Savior. God’s Plan of Salvation God created us to honor and serve Him Revelation 4:11: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power;For You created all things, And by Your will they exist[b] and were created Each of us has sinned against God Romans 3:10: As it is written, “There is none righteous, no, not one” Romans3:23: For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Jesus Christ died on the cross in our place, paying the penalty for our sin Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We each must accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior Romans 10:9: that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:13: For “whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.”
The penalty for sin is eternal separation from God and Heaven Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good works cannot ever earn God’s forgiveness and Salvation Titus 3:5: not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us. God loves each of us John 3:16: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
To accept Christ into your heart and life, pray a simple prayer along these lines - “Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and I am sorry for my sins. I know that Jesus died for my sins and the sins of the world. Right now, I ask Jesus into my heart and receive Him as my personal Savior. Forgive me of my sins, thank you for saving me through the blood of Jesus. Please Lord, help me live for you. In Jesus name, amen.” All scriptures are taken from The New King James Version of the Holy Bible.
October 2018
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2018
Hyundai Kona
19,000 Starting 27/33 City/Hwy MSRP MPG
$
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MSRP excludes destination charges, tax, and license fees. Destination charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost. 22018 Kona SE: 27/City 33/Hwy 30/Combined. SEL: 27/City 33/Hwy 30/ Combined. Limited: 28/City 32/Hwy 30/Combined. Ultimate: 28/ City 32/Hwy 30/Combined. EPA estimates. For comparison only. Your actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle’s condition. 1
1.877.886.8448 HyundaiOfCoolSprings.com Your Neigborhood Hyundai Dealer
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2018
Genesis G-80
41,750 Starting 19/27 City/Hwy MSRP MPG
$
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MSRP excludes destination charges, tax, title, and license fees. Destination charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost. 22018 Genesis G-80: 19 City/27 Hwy. Your actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle’s condition.
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Nashville Christian Family
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If something in this month’s issue of
has awakened in you a desire to learn more about the Freedom and Eternal Life that Jesus Christ offers, we encourage you to seek out a Bible-based church in our community.
We believe this is the MOST IMPORTANT DECISION you can make for yourself and your family. God Bless You!
B ody & S ou l
The Other Ninety-Nine
What are you doing with the other ninety-nine? I train many different people that come from all over Nashville, with different income levels, and different ages and stages of life. Some train once a week, some twice, etc. I love customizing a plan and a strategy to help each individual to reach and sustain his or her goals. The other day, I decided to crunch some numbers on the percent of time out of their week clients spend with me. Someone who comes even two times during the week only spends about 1% of their week with me. That’s only two hours out of the 168 hours! I have had many clients that are so consistent in coming to sessions with me, but never spend time outside of that one percent a week to get better and achieve their goals. Eventually, every single one of them lose heart and quit. If we think that we can dedicate 1% of our time to something and see results we are sorely mistaken. “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34). Our treasure is not just money, but it is time as well. Growing from Glory to Glory, in anything, takes our time and efforts. If we aren’t willing to dedicate time to these things then we will surely be stuck in a plateau, and eventually, plateaus drop off completely.
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I’m not suggesting that everyone should spend all their time and money on training and meal prepping; everyone is called to a certain percent. Everyone is called to steward their body. But this looks different for everyone, in every season of life. The problem is when we go to extremes; when we ignore the balance God is calling us to in our season. Some become obsessed with eating well and working out to the point that they become prideful, and others walk in apathy about their health and wellness which leads to guilt and shame. God has a specific calling for each season. So I ask, what are you doing with the remaining ninety-nine percent? What are you doing with the time you have? Do you want to see results in an area but are only giving it one percent of your time? I challenge you; whether it’s your walk with God, your professional career, your relationships, or the way you take care of your body – to give the percent that will help you reach your goals. Don’t make the important things just after-thoughts in your schedule. Make them priorities as you go from Glory to Glory.
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— Ashton Tate is a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition Specialist and owner of Glory to Glory Fitness in Franklin, TN. His passion is helping people live a balanced and healthy lifestyle by making fitness uncomplicated.
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October 2018 Calendar List Your Event!
If you have an event you would like listed in the Nashville Christian Family Community Calendar e-mail us at: NCFPublication@gmail.com subject line - Calendar October 20 - 21 Crafts & Cruisers – Williamson County Ag Expo Center Mark your calendars now for Crafts & Cruisers, a unique show featuring handmade crafts and a Motor Fest on Saturday and Sunday, October 20 and 21, 2018 at the Williamson County Ag Expo Arena, 4215 Long Ln. in Franklin, TN. This annual family event is presented by the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department (WCPR) and features shopping, cars and a community band concert. Upstairs in the Ag Expo Arena, shop the arts and crafts show, with unique, handmade gifts, holiday and home décor, jewelry, apparel and other goodies made by local crafters and artists. Select gifts for the whole family! Vintage and repurposed gifts, original art, pet items and more will be for sale at the show, so bring a shopping list. Downstairs in the giant arena floor, see the cars, trucks and motorcycles of Motor Fest 2018. Adults and kids alike will enjoy viewing 80 classic and custom vehicles. Be sure to vote for your favorite! This exhibit of classic cars is sponsored by Hyundai of Cool Springs, Genesis of Cool Springs and presented in part by Music City Antique Automobile Club. On Saturday at 3:00 p.m., the Williamson County Community Band will present a
free concert. Crafts & Cruisers is Saturday, October 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, October 21, from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is $2 per person, and includes the car and the craft show, both held indoors at the Williamson County Ag Expo Arena, 4215 Long Lane, (I-65, exit #61) in Franklin. Children 12 and younger are admitted free. Parking is free. Concessions will be on sale both days. The craft show is sponsored by NASH FM 103.3 and Sport Clips. For more information about the craft show or car show, contact Carrie Cartwright at (615) 790-5719, ext. 2028, or visit www.wcparksandrec.com. ONGOING Tennessee Christian Chamber of Commerce – Monthly Luncheon Last Tuesday of every month except December. Connection Groups - Networking/Leads Meetings held in these locations: Brentwood, Cool Springs/ Franklin, Downtown, Hendersonville, Mt. Juliet, Murfreesboro. For meeting locations, times and dates or for more information about the Chamber and events, visit www.tnchristianchamber.org or email rstringfellow@yahoo.com.
A bout O u r A dve rti s e r s
Winter Tennis Clinic Registration Underway – The Athletics Division of the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department announces open registration for winter sessions of indoor and outdoor tennis clinics. Clinics start the week of October 22. Indoor clinics will be offered at the Indoor Sports Complex in Brentwood; outdoor clinics will be at Crockett Park, 1500 Volunteer Pkwy. in Brentwood. Adult and junior clinics (age 5 and older) in beginner through advanced skill levels are offered Monday(s) through Saturday(s). Prices vary depending on the duration of clinic. A full class schedule, fees and registration are available at www.wcparksandrec.com. All fees must be paid in order to secure placement in a class. Space is limited. Contact Ann Marie Flynn, at (615) 370-3471, ext. 2113 or Kylie Preston, ext. 2116 for more information.
improve blood circulation and better the functioning of internal organs. Tai Chi taps into a body’s energy and reduces daily stress. Classes will be on Tuesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. at the Franklin Recreation Complex, 1120 Hillsboro Road. A new nine-week session (with one free class built in) begins October 2 and continues through November 27. The instructor is Susan Schmitter. Registration is available at www.wcparksandrec.com, registration code #12762
Tai Chi Ch’uan Introductory Classes – Offered At Franklin Rec Center - Williamson County Parks and Recreation is offering introductory classes to Tai Chi Ch’uan. This health and wellness activity uses smooth, continuous movements and deep breathing techniques to help participants unwind while improving balance, posture and strength. The health benefits are also designed to aid digestion,
Coming in
NOVEMBER November 11– Veterans Day Please take time to attend an event that honors the men and women who haved served our country in the armed services Check out fall fun festivals and family events all across middle tennessee November 22 Thanksgiving Day
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Dr. Ming Wang, Harvard & MIT (MD, Magna cum laude); PhD (laser physics)
Book Signing & FREE 3D SMILE/3D LASIK DRAWING! Mistress of Ceremony: Ms. Stacy Case, News Anchor, Fox 17 A celebration of Dr. Ming Wang’s autobiography, From Darkness to Sight. All proceeds benefit the Wang Foundation for Sight Restoration.
Music (Chinese violin – Ming Wang and classical guitar – Carlos Enrique) and food/drink
Thursday, November 1st, 6:00 pm
The Generations Church • 408 Church Street, Franklin, TN 37064
From Darkness to Sight chronicles the remarkable life journey of Dr. Ming Wang, a world-renowned laser eye surgeon, philanthropist and Kiwanis Nashvillian of the Year. As a teenager, Ming fought valiantly to escape one of history’s darkest eras—China’s Cultural Revolution—during which millions of innocent youth were deported to remote areas to face a life sentence of poverty and hard labor. Through his own tenacity and his parents’ tireless efforts to provide a chance of freedom for their son, Ming eventually made his way to America with $50 in his pocket and an American dream in his heart. Against all odds, he would earn a PhD in laser physics and graduate magna cum laude with the highest honors from Harvard Medical School and MIT. He embraced his Christian faith and tackled one of the most important questions of our time—Are faith and science friends or foes?—which led to his invention of a breakthrough biotechnology to restore sight. To date, Dr. Wang has performed over 55,000 eye procedures and has treated patients from nearly every state in the U.S. and from over 55 countries worldwide. He is considered the “doctor’s doctor,” as he has operated on over 4,000 physicians. Dr. Wang has published 9 textbooks and a paper in the world-renowned journal “Nature”. He performs 3D SMILE & 3D LASIK (18+), 3D KAMRA (45+), 3D Forever Young Lens (50+), and 3D Laser Cataract Surgery (60+). Dr. Wang holds several U.S. patents and performed the world’s first laser artificial cornea implantation. He is the recipient of the Honor Award from American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Chinese American Physicians. Dr. Wang is currently the only surgeon in the state who performs 3D LASIK and 3D SMILE (18+), 3D Laser Kamra (45+), 3D Forever Young Lens Surgery (50+), and 3D Laser Cataract Surgery (60+). Dr. Wang established a non-profit foundation which provides sight restoration surgeries for indigent patients who otherwise would never have the opportunity to receive them free-of-charge.
This is a story of one man’s inspirational journey, of turning fear, poverty, persecution and prejudice into healing and love for others. It demonstrates how focus, determination, humility, and profound faith can inspire a life that, in turn, impacts that of countless others. October 2018
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