April 6, 2023

Communities across Middle Tennessee mourn Covenant School shooting victims

BY

In the week following the March 27 fatal Covenant School shooting communities from across Middle Tennessee responded with shock, grief and outrage as the ‘targeted attack’ brought an international spotlight on the Green Hills church and school.

In the hours after the “targeted attack,” makeshift memorials popped up around the closed entrances of The Covenant School, honoring the lives of the six victims -- three children, Evelyn Dieckhaus, Hallie Scruggs and William Kinney, and three school staff members, Cindy Peak, Mike Hill and Katherine Koonce.

Those memorials grew throughout the following days as hundreds of mourners from Green Hills, the greater Nashville community, and people from afar offered bouquets of flowers, balloons, handwritten notes and signs, stuffed animals, white crosses with notes and prayers written in black marker.

On March 29, Los Angeles-based arts

nonprofit organization Classroom of Compassion placed six altars, each featuring large photographs of the victims decorated with flowers, at the makeshift memorial site that popped up outside of the entrance to The Covenant School.

Classroom of Compassion Founders David Maldonado and Noah Reich began the project in 2018 and have traveled to the sites of about a dozen mass shootings including Buffalo, New York, and Uvalde, Texas, the sites of mass shootings incidents in 2022.

One visitor offering his condolences and prayers was Dorian Botsis, Executive Pastor for Boston, Massachusetts-based Faith Community Church, who was visiting Nashville for a professional conference.

“I’m tired of the death, tired of the tragedy, and I mean, I’m a pastor, so we believe in the power of prayer, so I wanted to come and pray where the tragedy happened, but we need people to act, we need people to

make a difference in how they’re operating,” Botsis said.

“Part of what I’m praying is that people will take a moment and step away from the entrenched positions around gun violence, and start paying attention to the death that’s happening so that we can stop the death and start having children and educators and custodians, the workers and builders of our societies, have them be alive, and doing what they do best, which is build societies build communities, not have them be destroyed.”

For some mourners like Bellevue residents Leigh Ann Portale and her 18-year-old daughter Ella Portale, paying their respects was personal and difficult, as Ella had at one time been a student of The Covenant School, and recalled her memories of one of the victims, custodian Mike Hill.

“He was just a great guy, always willing to help and just always the first one to offer anything to the students, [he] built relationships with the students and just was

never shy,” Ella Portale said.

“I have this one memory of coming in from recess and it was muddy,

MATT MASTERS, LOGAN BUTTS, KELSEY BEYELER, STEPHEN ELLIOTT, HANNAH HERNER, AND D. PATRICK RODGERS

Memorial altars bearing the images of the victims of The Covenant School shooting stand at a memorial outside of the school.

PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

The family of Mike Hill, one of the six victims of The Covenant School shooting, attend the March 29 Nashville vigil.

PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

18-year-old Ella Portale, a former student of The Covenant School, writes a message on a memorial cross outside of the school. PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

Communities mourn

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Hundreds of mourners march through Nashville following the March 29 Nashville vigil. PHOTO BY

and me and a bunch of students left our shoes outside and went inside. We came back and our shoes had been cleaned. And it was just, it’s just really touching that he did that for us,” Ella Portale continued, “And now that he’s in heaven, I hope that his legacy lives on through here.”

“Covenant School is a very special place,” Leigh Ann Portale said, adding that her son also previously attended the school. “You just don’t find this kind of place, too many schools, what they offered to the children and how they nurtured them and taught them, it’s just truly special.”

“Nashville is a strong community,” Leigh Ann Portale said. “They’ve been hit by tornadoes, the flood, and something like this tragedy, we always bond together and stand together and support in so many different ways, and you’ll continue to see the support for this tragedy for years to come.”

On March 29, First Lady Jill Biden also paid her respects at the site prior to her appearance at Nashville’s city-wide vigil on the Public Square Park.

On March 30, dozens of Franklin community members gathered in the Monticello neighborhood for an evening vigil honoring Peak outside of her family home.

In a March 28 video address, Gov. Bill Lee spoke of his personal connection to Peak.

“Maria woke up this morning without one of her best friends, Cindy Peak. Cindy was supposed to come over to have dinner with Maria last night after she filled in as a substitute teacher yesterday at Covenant,” Lee said.

“Cindy and Maria and Katherine Koonce were all teachers at the same school and have been family friends for decades.”

The crowd of friends, neighbors and family members gathered on Peak’s front lawn at dusk to remember Peak and honor her with a community walk around the neighborhood, as she would do in the evenings.

Monticello Homeowners Association CoPresident David Lawbaugh has lived in the neighborhood with his wife for 25 years and helped to organize the memorial walk.

“We support each other and care in any way that we can find to do, and that’s kind of the purpose of our homeowners association, as well, is to support and be an advocate in any way we can to help our residents,”

“When this tragedy happened, the only thing that we can think of is, how can we help? What can we do to help these people to ease in as best they can to their new reality?”

“She was a wonderful person, really a standout person in our community, and not only our community of Franklin, [but] Williamson County, Nashville.”

Longtime Christ Community Church Pastor Mike Smith also spoke at the memorial and led the group in a prayer for Peak, the Peak family and all of the victims.

“I will tell you we need to be supportive of this family for weeks and months to come,” Smith said.

While the memorial included tears, it also included laughter and remembrances of Peak’s positive impact on children, her family, friends and neighbors, and as attendees walked the streets lined with paper lanterns, some hand in hand, they walked in Peak’s footsteps and shared in her memory.

“It was a horrifically tragic event,” Peak’s husband Chris told the crowd, his family surrounding him. “I want everybody here to hear me, that there were three precious kids, another lady, Katherine Koonce, who I knew, and of course Mr. Hill, and I want us to pray for them, I want us to lift them up and make this more of a celebration than anything else.”

“Do I miss my wife? Yes. And I will miss my wife. Am I mad? I was mad and I still am mad and that’s okay to be mad, but what I do and what I have told my kids is to hold on to what I know is the truth,” Peak said.

“And that is that my wife loved Jesus, she loved kids, she died doing what she loved, and beyond a shadow of a doubt, I know that she was protecting those kids, and I want everybody here to know that.”

Community members, churches, businesses and nonprofit organizations have offered their support in countless ways.

HOW TO GIVE — AND GET — HELP AFTER COVENANT SHOOTING

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee has long served as a clearinghouse in the wake of natural disasters and other such events, and the group has set up a fund benefiting the school and the shooting’s survivors.

A fundraiser has been established for Hill, the Dieckhaus family, and the Scruggs family.

It’s not just those in the Covenant community who will need help in the days to come. Students, parents and others in Nashville looking for a way to grapple with the violence can find some resources below.

Alive, a local nonprofit hospice organization, is hosting two webinars April 6 focused on “supporting your grieving child.” The group has also shared resources from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network.

The federal Office of Victims of Crimes has set up a Nashville-specific page with information about resources for those directly affected by the shooting. The site also has general resources for those needing or wanting to offer support.

Several mental health professionals in the Nashville area are offering temporary Pro Bono or reduced fee therapy services to survivors. An online list compiled by Brooke Lamb of Mt. Juliet’s Abide Counseling provides contact information for these therapists and their specializations.

Book publisher A Kids Co. offers a free online book on how to talk to kids about school shootings. The book is downloadable

in PDF or e-book format.

THE VICTIMS

The families of the six victims of the Covenant School shooting have fielded a huge amount of requests for statements about their loved ones as the horrific event made national and international news. The Scene has collected the public statements made by the victims’ families.

Katherine Koonce was the head of the school and is believed to have directly confronted the shooter. She dedicated her career to teaching at area private Christian schools.

“Katherine was devoted to her family, her friends, and especially the children she cared for,” writes Koonce’s family in a statement. “She gave her life to protect the students she loved. We are devastated by our loss but depending on our God for comfort and healing. It is our privilege to honor Katherine’s legacy and to celebrate her remarkable spirit. We are grateful for the prayers of many on our behalf, and we pray for the families of the six others who died.”

Hallie Scruggs was the daughter of the lead pastor of the Covenant Presbyterian Church and one of four children, the only girl.

“We are heartbroken,” Chad Scruggs tells ABC News in a statement. “Through tears we trust that she is in the arms of Jesus who will raise her to life once again.”

Evelyn Dieckhaus was a classmate of Hallie’s, loved to play with dolls and hoped to be an occupational therapist like her mother when she grew up.

“Our hearts are completely broken,” the Dieckhaus family tells ABC News. “We cannot believe this has happened. Evelyn was a shining light in this world. We appreciate all the love and support but ask for space as we grieve.”

MATT MASTERS

Mourners pay their respects at a memorial outside of The Covenant School.

PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

William Kinney was celebrated by his baseball teammates at Crieve Hall Baseball Park. Mike Hill was a custodian at the school

for more than a decade. His family released a statement saying he loved to cook and spend time with family. He had seven children and 14 grandchildren.

“We pray for the Covenant School and are so grateful that Michael was beloved by the faculty and students who filled him with joy for 14 years,” the statement reads.

Cynthia Peak was a substitute teacher at the school. According to Gov. Bill Lee, the Louisiana native and mother of three was

Tennesseans respond to Covenant School shooting with protests, calls for action

BY KELSEY BEYELER, MATT MASTERS, STEPHEN ELLIOTT, CONNOR DARYANI, D. PATRICK RODGERS, LOGAN BUTTS

Thousands of students and community members filled Legislative Plaza on Monday for a March for Our Lives rally. Groups including Students Demand Action were joined by city and state leaders, among them Vice Mayor Jim Shulman and state Rep. Bo Mitchell (D-Nashville), who addressed the crowd about gun violence and gun control.

Beforehand, the Scene caught up with a group of Hume-Fogg Academic High School students who organized a protest near their school in downtown Nashville.

and NOT school. … Leaving school during the day without following school and district protocols is a violation of our MNPS Code of Conduct. Any student who elects to leave campus (AKA ‘walkout’) will be subject to out-of-school suspension.”

also a close friend of Tennessee first lady Maria Lee.

“Cindy was a pillar of the community, and a teacher beloved by all her students,” her family tells ABC News. “Her favorite roles in life were being a mom to her three children, a wife to her husband, and an educator to students.”

A version of this story ran in our sister publication Nashville Scene.

Covenant School shooting update reveals killer planned attack for ‘months’

STAFF REPORTS

According to an April 3 Metro Nashville Police Department news release, the shooter, Audrey Hale “acted totally alone” and fired a total of 152 bullets, 126 of them from a rifle, before Hale was killed by police.

“In the collective writings by Hale found in her vehicle in the school parking lot, and others later found in the bedroom of her home, she documented, in journals, her planning over a period of months to commit mass murder at The Covenant School,” MNPD said.

“We’re not safe, and we don’t feel safe, none of us do — at least I don’t,” said Vivian Carlson. Carlson helped organize the event via an Instagram account called @nash_ studentsforchange, which features student art and poetry about gun violence.

Metro Nashville Public Schools encouraged students to participate in “walk-in rallies” inside schools, citing safety and equity concerns for students who wouldn’t be easily able to travel downtown. An email sent to students by Hume-Fogg administrators read: “Should a family want their HF student to attend this event, you will need to treat the absence as any other using our normal attendance protocols and procedures. We ask students planning to attend the rally report directly to the Capitol

One Hume-Fogg teacher opened a window and waved to the crowd outside while students inside the building held signs up to a window. Students then started walking to the Legislative Plaza, chanting phrases including “Hey hey, ho ho, the NRA has got to go.” Once they arrived, they shared stories and sang before the scheduled speakers began.

Once gathered in the Cordell Hull State Office Building downtown, students and allies confronted state lawmakers including House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-Portland), calling for gun restrictions. Students questioned Lamberth on topics including the so-called drag ban, gun access, school resource officers and mental health.

“I represent Sumner County, OK,” Lamberth told the protesters. “My children go to school there, all right? You’re frustrated, you’re upset, you’re scared. … If nothing else comes from this conversation, please understand this: I will do anything within my ability to make sure

The ongoing investigation into the March 27 shooting at The Covenant School has revealed that the attack was planned “over a period of months.”

“The writings remain under careful review by the MNPD and the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit based in Quantico, Virginia. The motive for Hale’s actions has not been established and remains under investigation by the Homicide Unit in consultation with the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. It is known that Hale considered the actions of other mass murderers.”

Mourners attend a memorial outside of the Franklin home of The Covenant School shooting victim Cindy Peak on March 30.

PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

Thousands of protesters, mainly students, march through Nashville on April 3 calling for gun reform. PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

TBI Director David Rausch (right) speaks to reporters along with MNPD Police Chief John Drake (left) on March 27 just hours after the fatal shooting at The Covenant School . PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

BY BILL FREEMAN

Last week’s shooting at Covenant School in Nashville is a tragedy that has shaken our community to its core. However, amid the horror, we saw the inspiring bravery of the Metro police and first responders, who ran toward danger without a second thought. Their willingness to sacrifice their own lives for the safety of others is a testament to the best of humanity. It is also important to recognize the heroism of the three adults who lost their lives: 61-year-old Cynthia Peak, 61-year-old Mike Hill and 60-year-old Katherine Koonce, the head of the school who “very possibly,” according to MNPD

Chief John Drake, ran toward the shooter in an attempt to protect students.

But we cannot ignore the role that easy access to guns played in this tragedy. The shooter, who legally bought seven weapons from five different gun stores, used three of them during the shooting. Even many gun owners recognize the need for better regulation. Local Chad Baker, who carries a gun himself, told CBS News, “I don’t think it should be as easy to buy flowers as it is a gun.”

Sadly, many politicians, like U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, prioritize their relationships with the National Rifle

Association over the right to life. Blackburn has received more than $1.3 million from the NRA, yet she offered only “thoughts and prayers” after the school shooting. As reported last year by The New York Times, Republican lawmakers often claim that taking a stand for gun control would be political suicide — but if they truly cared about human life, they would recognize that the right to carry a gun should not outweigh the right to live.

According to a study conducted by the Tufts University School of Medicine and reported on by Politico, the majority of gun owners even support specific gun-safety policies, and have concerns about school shootings, mass shootings and access to guns for those convicted of violent crimes. The study shows that 71 percent are concerned about mass shootings. “Sixty-six percent are concerned about an increase in gunrelated homicides and gun crimes in cities,” reports Politico. “Over 80 percent believe people convicted of a violent crime should not be able to purchase or possess a gun.” But GOP lawmakers continue to make assumptions about their constituents, rather than taking action to protect public safety.

Gov. Bill Lee, in his usual “silent mode,” did not make public appearances last week, let alone propose any steps toward gun reform. He merely offered that as a community we should “pray.”

Worse still, actions against any gun control measures are coming to the fore. According to The Washington Post: “Republicans in the state Senate appear poised to block gun-related bills for the rest of the year. That would bar passage of new gun measures inspired by the shooting, and efforts previously underway may be held up in their Senate committee. Senator Jeff Yarbro (D), whose measure to strengthen gun storage requirements now

faces uncertainty, told The Washington Post, ‘I fundamentally reject that notion and don’t understand how we can responsibly call ourselves representatives of citizens and not take this on.’” Maybe this explains the governor’s lack of public appearances. Likely, he knows the repercussions he’d face if he were to have to answer for this in front of his constituents.

The link between gun control measures and public safety is clear. States with weaker gun laws have higher firearm-related homicide and suicide rates, while stronger gun laws are associated with lower rates of gun deaths. Every time there is another school shooting, we ask ourselves how many more children have to die before our leaders take meaningful action toward gun reform.

It is not the majority of our gun-carrying citizens who are at fault. Rather, the lack of action from our lawmakers is to blame. As long as politicians prioritize their own careers over the safety of our children, we will continue to see these devastating tragedies. I urge those with power to think about the families of those affected and to remember that every American deserves to feel comfortable dropping their children off at school and knowing they will be safe. We need action, not just prayers. I’m angered that our state leaders are still standing idly by and doing nothing. In our governor’s case, that means refusing public appearances and doing nothing — while his party’s lawmakers even bar changes that could be made. It’s ridiculous!

I don’t know how they sleep at night.

Bill Freeman

Bill Freeman is the owner of FW Publishing, the publishing company that produces the Nashville Scene, Nfocus, the Nashville Post and The News.

‘I don’t think it should be as easy to buy flowers as it is a gun’ — how long before GOP lawmakers recognize that even gun owners want better restrictions?

A still frame from a security camera inside of The Covenant School shows mass killer Audrey Hale during the attack.

PHOTO BY MNPD

Shooting response

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

that you are safe at school, and that you feel safe at school, there is no topic that’s off the table here.”

Shortly later, Gov. Bill Lee and Republican leaders in the legislature jointly announced a series of proposals in response to the shooting — but none of them related to gun control.

The $200 million announced by the governor includes $140 million to put a school resource officer in every Tennessee public school, $27 million for security upgrades at public and private schools, $8 million for school-based behavioral health liaisons and $30 million for an expanded “statewide homeland security network” for private and public schools.

“I say this to young people: Please don’t let this be the last time you come to the Capitol,” Gov. Lee said at a press conference at Tennessee Tower as the protest went on below.

Last week, the governor signed a bill allowing private schools to contract with local law enforcement and hire SROs, but studies show that armed guards may not actually prevent school shootings.

Outside of the new budget proposals, the only piece of legislation Lee addressed was HB322/SB274, which would penalize schools for having unlocked exterior doors. The Covenant School shooter entered a locked door by shooting through its glass, according to law enforcement and security footage.

When reporters asked if Lee would support a red-flag law, which allows police and loved ones to petition for someone’s guns to temporarily be taken away, the governor did not offer a firm answer.

“I think that one of the things that we probably all agree on is that a person who is a threat to themselves or to others should not have access to weapons,” Lee said. “We should look at ways to accomplish that. That’s what I anticipate the members of the General Assembly will contemplate and work together to provide. There are any number of ways that that can be accomplished.”

The governor added that “protecting the constitutional rights of our people” would be required for any such legislation.

Sen. Todd Gardenhire (R-Chattanooga), who joined the governor at the press conference, said last week that the Senate Judiciary Committee, which he chairs, would not be taking up any gun-related legislature for the rest of the session. Lee said he has not spoken to Gardenhire, who left without taking questions from reporters. Senate Speaker Randy McNally said last week he was open to some form of red-flag law.

Following the press conference, Sexton told reporters he has not seen any red-flag laws around the country that he would support.

On March 29, thousands of Nashvillians gathered downtown for a vigil to allow space for the community to grieve and mourn together.

Local musicians Sheryl Crow, Margo Price and Ketch Secor performed during

the gathering, held at Public Square Park in front of City Hall. Various family members related to Mike Hill, one of the six victims in the shooting, stood onstage.

Metro Councilmember Russ Pulley and state Rep. Harold Love were among the speakers, and other attendees included Nashville Mayor John Cooper, Sen. Marsha Blackburn and Sen. Bill Hagerty as well as U.S. First Lady Jill Biden. Gov Bill Lee did not attend.

The March 30 rally was a demonstration of righteous anger and calls for action with seniors, school-age children and even moms holding babies crowding Legislative Plaza shortly after 8 a.m.

They held signs, chanted, sang and yelled as Republican state lawmakers entered the House and Senate chambers within the Tennessee State Capitol. Democratic leaders, meanwhile, joined the protests and urged people on.

Outside, speakers discussed gun violence, criticized the lawmakers who are unwilling to restrict gun access and urged people to vote in upcoming elections. They also repeated the names of the victims of the Covenant School shooting.

“I’ve worked in trauma centers and treated countless victims of gunshot wounds,” said Dr. Katrina Greene, an emergency physician. “Some who were young children and teens. … One thing my training did not prepare me for was the soulcrushing, heartbreaking sound of the wails of mothers when you tell them that their child has died.”

Inside the Capitol, throngs of protesters filled hallways and balconies above the House and Senate floors. After being warned about disrupting legislative business by Republican leaders, protesters were removed from the chambers.

Though Republican leadership in Tennessee has typically been loath to

consider restrictions on gun ownership in recent years, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, the Republican leader of the Senate, said Thursday that he is open to a red-flag law and opposed expanding open carry to long guns. Per NewsChannel 5’s Chris Davis, McNally added that he is not sure whether other Republican leaders will agree with him.

Following a chaotic March 30 floor session that saw Democratic Reps. Justin Jones, Justin Pearson and Gloria Johnson interrupt legislative business in support of protesters, Sexton this week is seeking to punish the trio. The Democratic members said in a press conference Monday that their committee assignments and security badge access had been revoked.

On April 1, more than 100 people gathered on Franklin’s public square calling for gun reform and featuring remarks from students, teachers, parents, physicians and lawmakers. Notably, none of the lawmakers present at the demonstration represent Williamson County.

“Before that [the Covenant School shooting] I thought, ‘Oh, this wouldn’t happen to me, I go to a private school or something like that,’ but then I realized that nobody is safe and that we need to take action,” Battle Ground Academy eighth grader Wilson Webster told the crowd.

“Something needs to happen to guns before something happens to us.”

Organizers Caroline and Jared Sullivan, both Franklin High School graduates who are parents to two daughters, began planning the demonstration just hours after the March 27 shooting.

“We thought it would be the two of us, maybe a few family members, but we couldn’t not come forward and voice an opinion,” Caroline Sullivan said.

The Sullivans said that they invited several state and federal representatives who live in Williamson County, including State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, Sen. Marsha Blackburn, Gov. Bill Lee and State Rep. Sam Whitson.

Jared Sullivan specifically called Whitson a “good, sensible Republican,” and said, “he’s told me in emails that he’s for some sensible [gun] regulation.”

“I invited him, he did not show up, and that’s extremely disappointing because good people should stand up in the face of wrong, and I wish more of our Republican representatives would.”

Additional Nashville actions are planned including an April 5 demonstration with teachers and parents, and another studentled demonstration on April 6.

Sarah Braam (left) and Davern Cigarran, both 17-year-old juniors at Nashville’s Harpeth Hall School, embrace during a gun control protest at the state Capitol, March 30. PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

Tenn. Rep. William Lamberth speaks with student protesters outside of his office in Nashville’s Cordell Hull State Office Building on April 3. PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

Protesters rally against gun violence at the state Capitol on April 3.

PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

Judge temporarily blocks ‘overly broad’ Tennessee drag bill

BY STEPHEN ELLIOTT

Parker agreed with the plaintiffs, a Memphis theater company, that the statute, passed earlier this legislative session, is “likely both vague and overly-broad.”

The judge wrote that the language in the law restricting certain types of performances on public property or where they “could be viewed by a person who is not an adult” could apply “just about anywhere, including private homes.”

The legislature, Parker added, “missed the mark,” and the state defendants have not done enough to argue that there exists a compelling reason to restrict the speech of performers. Specifically, Parker singled out bill sponsor GOP Rep. Chris Todd, who he said made clear during the legislative process that his goal was to target “drag queens” and not apply the bill generally.

Another lawsuit filed over Metro Council reduction

BY STEPHEN ELLIOTT

Nashville voters, Metro Council candidates and current Metro councilmembers are joining the legal challenge of the new state law that requires the Metro Council to be cut in half.

The plaintiffs in the new suit, filed Tuesday in Davidson County Chancery Court, request that their challenge be assigned to the same three-judge panel tasked with considering the Metro government’s earlier suit related to the legislation. The plaintiffs in the new suit are Zulfat Suara, Delishia Porterfield and Sandra Sepulveda, all Metro councilmembers currently seeking reelection; religious leaders Davie Tucker and Judy Cummings; Dave Goetz, a former leader of the Tennessee Department of Finance and the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce; Alma Sanford, a community member; and Quin Segall, a candidate for Metro Council. All note that they are Nashville voters.

Drag artist Vanity performs at the March 9, 2023, Slay Hate Rally at Nashville’s Tribe nightclub.

PHOTO BY MATT MASTERS

Tennessee’s new law seeking to restrict drag performances did not go into effect over the weekend as scheduled after U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Parker, a Trump appointee, issued a temporary restraining order on Friday.

“These are not trifling issues for a theatre company — certainly not in the free, civil society we hold our country to be,” Parker wrote, noting the plaintiff’s fears of criminal prosecution or other consequences as it plans future performances.

The temporary restraining order will expire after two weeks, and the court is expected to hold further discussions in the coming days.

This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

The lawsuit incorporates several of the same arguments from Metro’s earlier challenge: Under the Home Rule Amendment, the legislature is prohibited from making legislation targeted at a single local community; the state constitution requires local lawmakers serve four-year terms; and the timeline required by the new law is impossible to comply with.

Supporters of the legislation have argued against those points by noting that the law applies to all metropolitan governments in the state (there are just three, and the other two already have legislative bodies with 20 or fewer members) and that Metro can simply

take an extra year to draw new lines if the process is too hurried.

Metro is already working on new maps, including an option with 15 district representatives and five at-large representatives and another with 17 district representatives and three at-large representatives.

Republicans in the Tennessee General Assembly passed the bill following the Metro Council’s refusal to support a Nashville bid for the Republican National Convention in 2024. Gov. Bill Lee, also a Republican, signed the bill into law about an hour after it was signed, deploying unusual speed. Metro filed its lawsuit a few days later.

In a response to the original Metro suit filed earlier this week, the state argues that the claims about four-year terms are not yet ripe, as the city is currently working on a redistricting plan that could potentially be in place in time for elections later this year. The state also argues that Metro does not have standing “because Metro Nashville was not elected to any legislative term” (unlike Suara, Sepulveda and Porterfield).

A hearing in the original case is scheduled for April 4. The law requires the Metro Planning Commission to establish new district boundaries four days later.

The new plaintiffs are represented by Scott Tift and David Garrison of Barrett Johnston Martin & Garrison and John Spragens of Spragens Law.

This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

Franklin man charged with 5 counts of inciting a riot in MNPD’s street racer-car meet investigation

STAFF REPORTS

A Franklin man was charged with five counts of inciting a riot on Saturday as part of the Metro Nashville Police Department’s crackdown on street racing and dangerous behavior at unsanctioned car meets.

21-year-old Keller Moore was arrested after allegedly having organized and promoted several car meets through social media, each of which drew hundreds of people to various Nashville parking lots where the property owners had not given permission for a gathering.

The MNPD’s Traffic Division, in consultation with the Vehicle Crimes Section of the District Attorney’s Office, swore out five arrest warrants against Moore, each of which covers a separate date:

January 28, 2023: Moore is alleged to have used social media to advertise a “pop-up meet” in the parking lot of Woodmont Hills

Church of Christ at 3710 Franklin Pike. An estimated 300 to 400 vehicles arrived. Several took part in burnouts and donuts in the church parking lot, posing a risk to others on the property.

January 24, 2023: Moore is alleged to have used social media to organize and promote a car meet at 3040 Sidco Drive. Midtown Hills Precinct officers responded to the parking lot due to the large crowd on the property, which was newly renovated and for sale. Vehicles conducting burnouts damaged the lot by leaving tire marks. There was also an oil spill. The real estate agent for the property, who called police that night, said neither Moore nor anyone else had permission to be there.

October 28, 2022: Moore is alleged to have used social media to organize and promote a car meet at 1001 Health Park

Drive. The police department responded to the location after a report that 100 or more people had gathered there. Numerous vehicles were involved in conducting burnouts and donuts. Three drivers present fled from police that night. The property manager confirmed Moore did not have permission to use the parking lot, which was damaged by tire marks.

July 22, 2022: Moore is alleged to have used social media to organize and promote a car meet at 516 Rev. Kelly M. Smith Way, a State of Tennessee owned parking lot. Several hundred people gathered there. Individuals in the group took over intersections and conducted burnouts, donuts, and slides with their vehicles in the intersections of Nelson Merry Street & 10th Circle North, and Kelly M. Smith Way & Rosa L. Parks Boulevard. The crowd also blocked roadways, preventing

police from entering the area.

May 13, 2022: Moore is alleged to have used social media to organize and promote a car meet in the parking lots of Nissan Stadium. The group gained access to several stadium lots, including those that were closed off. Approximately 1,000 vehicles arrived, with some doing burnouts and donuts, creating serious danger to those present. Law enforcement on the ground and in the air responded to disperse the crowd.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is assisting the MNPD’s Traffic Division in this enforcement initiative.

Moore surrendered on the outstanding warrants at the Downtown Detention Center Friday night, and a judicial commissioner set his bond at $7,500.

Governor’s roads bill approved by legislature

BY CONNOR DARYANI

Gov. Bill Lee’s Transportation Modernization Act completed its passage through the Tennessee General Assembly on Thursday, looking nearly identical to the way it started. The multibillion-dollar plan will affect the state’s approach to infrastructure for decades to come.

“It’s time to do something about the way we address our infrastructure,” said Rep. Dan Howell (R-Cleveland) while presenting the bill on the House floor.

The core of the legislation centers on freeing up the state to make use of publicprivate partnerships in building “choice lanes,” which critics have taken to referring to as toll lanes. These choice lanes would be built by private companies on existing highways, giving drivers the option of paying a fee in exchange for theoretically avoiding traffic. Advocates for the bill argue that this would not only open up a new stream of revenue, but also free up the Tennessee Department of Transportation’s limited resources, allowing the department to devote its time to rural projects.

From the time the plan was first presented by the governor in January, the proposal has received bipartisan support, as well as bipartisan criticism. The bill squeaked through the Senate Transportation

Committee on a 5-4 vote, with three Republicans joining Sen. Heidi Campbell (D-Nashville) in voting against the bill.

“We have this triple A bond rating, and if there’s ever a time to use it, this would be one of those times,” Campbell said, referring to the state’s strong status according to credit rating agencies. The governor has touted the lack of new debt or an increase to the gas tax as selling points for his plan. “If it’s a profitable endeavor for private entities,” said Campbell, “then surely it would be a profitable endeavor for us.”

Early on in the legislative session, Campbell was open to the bill despite having some concerns. But she says as she has grown more familiar with the legislation, her concerns have deepened, mainly surrounding how the bill treats Nashville. Critics of the proposal were quick to point out that of the $3 billion proposed, Nashville and Middle Tennessee would receive the least funding per capita under the current allotments.

“Basically we’re getting double charged,” said Campbell, expressing a common concern among critics that funding for rural projects will come out of the pockets of urban drivers through the choice lanes, on top of the taxes residents are already paying. “If you look at other privatizations endeavors

in this state — like, CoreCivic comes to mind. They don’t go well. And I am very concerned about putting taxpayers on the hook for that component of it.”

Campbell was one of five senators to vote against the bill when it passed on the Senate floor on March 20. Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D-Nashville) and Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis) both supported the bill but expressed concern that it was not ambitious enough to address the state’s infrastructure needs.

Protesters rallied against gun violence at the Capitol on Thursday, and the ensuing chaos led Republican leaders to bar most debate on the House floor.

Six amendments were tabled during the session, most of which were proposed by Rep. John Ray Clemmons (D-Nashville), who started with an impassioned speech pleading with his peers to vote positively on an amendment to help expand Amtrak in Tennessee.

“Amtrak wants to be in Tennessee,” said Clemmons. “They are practically begging us to take their money, and invest it and restart intrastate passenger rail service, which could be used for interstate passenger rail service.”

TDOT sent a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation late last year expressing

interest in expanding Amtrak throughout Tennessee. But with grants being competitive, advocates for passenger rail expansion have argued that TDOT needs to be doing more to secure federal funding.

“This isn’t asking us to spend a bunch of money,” said Clemmons. “This is asking the state of Tennessee, requiring the department to work with the federal government. … This shouldn’t even be controversial.”

Clemmons argued that having Amtrak lines between major Tennessee cities, and even connecting to Atlanta, could bolster the economies of not only urban cores but also rural counties.

The amendment failed, and the act passed the House on a 78-12 margin. It now makes its way to the governor’s desk.

This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Scene.

Senate moves forward with bills aimed at Nashville governance

BY CONNOR DARYANI

Several bills that have been flagged as attacks on Nashville passed through the Senate State and Local Government committee last week.

Adhering to a common pattern this legislative season, the bills from the Republican supermajority each take aim at different Nashville government boards, either appropriating power for the state or disbanding the bodies altogether. All are now on their way to the Senate floor.

Senate Bill 591 would abolish community oversight boards (COB) and replace them with police advisory and review committees. Nashvillians in 2018 voted to establish a COB in Nashville, designed to respond to and investigate citizen complaints against police officers for excessive use of force. These new committees would serve a similar function to COBs but would be constituted differently.

Nashville’s COB is currently made up of 11 members, seven of whom were community-nominated. Under the new bill, a seven-member board would be selected by the mayor and approved by the Metro Council, and would be further limited in its investigative power, primarily existing

to offer recommendations. Sen. Mark Pody (R-Lebanon), the legislation’s sponsor, said during committee it will promote uniformity across the state, which he argues will make for more effective oversight.

“It worries me to come in on top and change what has been going on in all these different places,” said Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D-Nashville) during committee, adding the bodies have been established through the work of citizens and local officials, and that the state should not interfere. “It gives me a great deal of pause to intervene where we already have organizations that are operational.”

The bill models the restructured COBs after the one currently operating in Knoxville, which advocates say will allow inquiries to be streamlined without interfering with investigations by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and other entities.

But Jill Fitcheard, executive director of Metro Nashville Community Oversight, testified that the new boards would not be as effective as the one currently in place.

“Our department is unique from other only do we investigate individual complaints,

we also research policy and have made 27 recommendations to [the Metro Nashville Police Department], 22 of which have been implemented,” Fitcheard said.

The bill passed the committee 7-2. The House iteration will be heard in the Criminal Justice Subcommittee on Tuesday.

On the same theme, Senate Bill 1335 by Sen. Paul Bailey (R-Sparta) aims to reconstitute the Metropolitan Sports Authority Board, which is responsible for overseeing facilities such as Nissan Stadium. The 13 members of the board are currently chosen by the mayor, but under this proposed legislation, seven would be chosen by the mayor and six chosen by the state — two by each chamber’s speaker and two by the governor.

“This is another evasion of the principle of home rule,” testified Bill Bradley, former budget director for the state. “There are, I believe, five of these sports authorities in the state. This one is being singled out.”

Two lawsuits have now been filed against the state over another piece of legislation that critics say violates the Home Rule Amendment of the Tennessee Constitution, which outlaws legislation targeting a single community. That bill, which has already been signed into law, caps the Metro Council, currently composed of 40 members, at 20 members.

Pody, whose district now includes a portion of Davidson County, joined the two Democratic members of the committee in opposition to reconstituting the sports authority.

“I’m telling you right now, I was never even consulted about this,” he said. “I’m asking y’all to let me represent Davidson County and either put this to summer study or vote no on this.”

He also suggested that Mayor John Cooper and the Metro Council stop “picking a fight” with the state.

Bailey argued that because the state puts some funding toward Nashville’s sports facilities, it should have a say in how they are run. Similar authority boards in other cities would not be affected by this bill.

The bill passed on a 6-3 margin. In the House, it’s on its way to the Government Operations Committee, though a hearing has not been scheduled.

Another bill, which made headlines earlier in the session for aiming to cut the Music City Center’s funding structure, passed through the committee with an amendment. Senate Bill 648 as amended would no longer cut the funding used to pay off millions of dollars in bonds used to pay for the convention center but would instead block Metro from putting any extra revenue from those taxes into the general fund.

The bill would appoint state officers to

the Convention Center Authority, giving the state oversight in what any overflow funds are spent on.

Again, Yarbo spoke out against the bill, calling it government overreach, but his complaints fell on deaf ears. The legislation passed 7-2 and is on its way to the Senate floor. The House version of the bill awaits assignment to the Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee’s calendar.

A second bill from Bailey was originally seen as an attack on Nashville but has since been expanded to cover the entire state. Senate Bill 1327 would prohibit beer boards from imposing fines or penalties on an establishment based on another agency’s findings. The bill instead puts regulatory oversight in the hands of the state Alcohol and Beverage Commission. As originally filed, the legislation would have turned Metro oversight of Lower Broadway bars over to state regulators.

Following the amendment to make the bill apply statewide, the legislation passed through the committee unanimously. It was placed behind the budget in the House, meaning the body will not consider the legislation further until an annual spending plan is passed, potentially dooming the bill for now.

Yet another bill from Bailey would operate similarly to the bill reconstituting the sports authority board but instead focuses on the Metro Nashville Airport Authority. Under protest from Democratic members of the Davidson County delegation, Senate Bill 1326 would change the makeup of the board to give two appointees each to the House speaker, the Senate speaker, the governor and the mayor. Currently, the board is made up of seven members appointed by the Nashville mayor.

The bill passed Thursday through the Senate on party lines and will be heard in the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday. Similar to the Sports Authority bill, the legislation applies only to Nashville despite other major cities having airport boards — again leading critics to point to the Home Rule Amendment. Notably, a lawsuit in Jackson, Miss., related to similar legislation has lasted seven years.

Describing the ongoing battle between Metro and the state, Yarbro said it is like “getting in a fight with your wife and burning the garage down.”

This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Scene.

The Nashville Symphony & Giancarlo Guerrero, Music Director present the World Premiere of an Epic Operatic Experience by Hannibal Lokumbe

An epic, fully staged production featuring the Nashville Symphony; ten vocalists including gospel and Mississippi Delta Blues; more than 30 actors; a 100+ person choir drawn from Tennessee and Kentucky Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the Nashville Symphony Chorus; African drummers and dancers; and, a Jazz quintet with Hannibal Lokumbe on trumpet.

Giancarlo Guerrero, music director

DETAILS UNFOLD FOR PLANNED BELMONT RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

Details continue to emerge related to a high-rise residential building planned for the Belmont University campus.

As the Post reported earlier this month, the building would rise on a site located to the immediate west of Belmont’s Caldwell Hall, an 11-story residential building that opened in fall 2022 with a price tag of $98 million.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Nearby is Tall Hall, a similar structure. Belmont has filed for a stormwater grading and excavation permit as part of the process. The main address is 1407 Caldwell Ave. (which is raw land), with the university also owning four other properties of the six needed for the tower, referred to as Caldwell Hall 2 on the Metro document. The Metro Development and Housing Agency and a group of individuals own the

Kirkland’s CEO Woody Woodward retiring

BY STEPHEN ELLIOTT

Aeropostale and Ralph Lauren, will serve as interim CEO.

Meanwhile, Amy Sullivan, Kirkland’s senior vice president and chief merchandising and stores officer, has been promoted to president and chief operating officer. She has been with the company for more than a decade.

other two properties.

A recently filed permit related to water and sewer availability notes the building will offer 782 beds and 3,500 square feet of retail.

Nashville’s Catalyst Design Group is handling land planning and engineering work.

Belmont officials have declined to offer specifics, including a price tag, height, the amount of land needed for the project and an architect. However, Nashville-based ESa

likely would serve as the designer, as it did for Tall Hall and Caldwell Hall.

The six properties to accommodate a future Caldwell Hall 2 offer five freestanding homes and a collective 1.33 acres (a previously filed document suggested seven parcels, six homes and a collective 1.55 acres).

Have a promotion you wish to submit to Business briefs? Send to news@fwpublishing.com.

Dallas company finalizes latest Berry Hill deal

BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS

A Texas real estate company that has undertaken multiple purchases in Berry Hill has finalized its most recent deal in the Davidson County satellite city.

Woody Woodard

Home décor and furnishings retailer Kirkland’s Inc. is looking for a new leader. CEO Woody Woodward is retiring at the end of May, the company announced Tuesday. The Kirkland’s board is “in the process of evaluating its options for a permanent successor.”

Ann Joyce, a board member with past executive experience at Chico’s FAS,

“On behalf of our board, I would like to thank Woody for his tremendous service and dedication to Kirkland’s Home over the years,” said chair R. Wilson Orr. “As we begin to navigate this transition, I’m pleased we have an experienced retail executive in Ann to lead our organization. Ann brings a wealth of experience in retail operations that has proven to be of significant value at the board level. We also congratulate Amy on her well-deserved promotion and enhanced leadership role. We look forward to both of their further contributions in these new roles as we focus on reinvigorating our customer base and returning to profitability.”

Kirkland’s has 344 stores in 35 states.

Woodward in 2021 was named the Post’s CEO of the Year, in part for his efforts leading the retailer through COVID-19. He joined Kirkland’s in 2018. Previously, he was president at Crate and Barrel.

An LLC affiliated with Dallas-based Xebec now owns property located at 2809 Columbine Place, having paid $1.4 million for it, according to a Davidson County Register of Deeds document.

The sellers in the most recent transaction were three family members, information about whom the Post was unable to determine.

The property offers a building accommodating accounting firm Burkhalter & Associates, with the company’s future status in the building unclear.

The deal follows Xebec’s having spent in December 2022 $1.1 million for a property at 2810 Columbine Place.

In July of last year, Xebec paid $1 million

for a property located at 2802 Columbine Place. Also during that month, the company paid a collective $3.3 million for a trio of properties at 2803-05-07 Columbine Place, Metro records show.

Those deals followed Xebec’s in May having paid $2 million for two properties: one home to Manuel American Designs at 2804 Columbine Place and the other at 503 E. Iris Drive.

It is unclear if Xebec (pronounced “ZEE-beck”) owns more than the eight Berry Hill properties. The company focuses on industrial real estate, with its officials unavailable for comment regarding the continued assembling of the commercial properties.

The Post was unable to determine if brokers were involved in the transaction. This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

Specialty grocery store chain set for Green Hills

BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS

New York Butcher Shoppe, a specialty grocery store chain based in South Carolina, is slated to open in late summer in Green Hills.

According to a permit application, the gourmet market will take space in a mixeduse building located at 2002 Richard Jones Road and perhaps best recognized as the home of Green Hills Grille, among other retail and office businesses.

This will be Tennessee’s first New York Butcher Shoppe, which currently operates 25 locations in six states. The city in which the brand is offered and located within the closest proximity to Nashville is Birmingham.

New York Butcher Shoppe offers fresh meats, prepared meals, wine, cheeses and some international grocery items (among other specialties). The chain also can provide catering services. The Green

Hills store will offer a deli, according to spokesperson Matt Kormylo.

“We’re excited to bring rare quality and well-done service to the Nashville area,” Kormylo said.

Founded in 1999 by a Brooklyn couple, the parent company of New York Butcher Shoppe is headquartered in Greenville, S.C. Nashville’s Daniels + Chandler Architects is handling the design of the approximately 1,450-square-foot space, which was last home to a Which Wich sandwich shop.

An LLC affiliated with Brookside Properties owns the building in which New York Butcher Shoppe will operate, seemingly having paid $6 million for it in 1986, Metro records show. Brookside Properties operates its office from the structure’s second floor. This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

Green Hills commercial property sells for $2.5M

BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS

A Green Hills commercial building once home to long-standing art retailer Cumberland Gallery has sold for $2.5 million — approximately 13 months after it changed ownership hands for $450,000 less than that figure.

According to a Davidson County Register of Deeds document, the new owner of the 0.17-acre property, located at 4107 Hillsboro Circle near the YMCA, is an LLC that includes Ann Williams and Pat Williams. The Williamses have landed a $2,125,000 loan from Pinnacle Bank, a separate document notes.

The Williamses are owners of custom jewelry retailer Yearly Company, which specializes in 14k gold anniversary bangles and previously operated from their justpurchased building. Yearly now is located nearby at 2909 Bandywood Drive.

Ann Williams told the Post that Yearly Company will relocate this summer to the Hillsboro Circle building. Relatedly, the Williamses bought in 2022 a Music Row building (read here) from which the Yearly Company offices and studio operate.

The seller was an LLC for which the

business manager is Legina Chaudoin, a partner with local public accounting firm

O’Neil Hagaman. That entity paid $2.05 million for the property in February 2022, Metro records show.

As the Post previously reported, the seller in last year’s transaction was locally based real estate investor Joong Seo, who paid $1,375,000 for the property in February 2019, Metro records show.

Carol Stein opened Cumberland Gallery in the Green Hills building in 1980 and would later acquire the property in 1985 for $350,000, according to Metro records. Cumberland Gallery ceased brick-andmortar operations at the site in 2019 after a 39-year run.

Stephen Songy, with Sagemont Realty, represented the Williamses in the transaction. The Post was unable to determine if the seller had broker representation.

This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

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Headline Homes: February 2023

BY AMANDA HAGGARD

At Headline Homes HQ, we just love when history shows us a more quaint time, when million-dollar homes were just a million dollars and not several million. The No. 2 spot this morning offers just that — the Hillcote home sold for the first time in 20 years, offering a glimpse of the kind of equity having a million dollars to begin with gets you.

Some other highlights in this month’s high-dollar homes include more and more new construction going for upward of $3.5 million.

Below are February’s top 10 home sales in Nashville and the surrounding counties, ranked by sale price.

1. 1561 Sunset Road, Brentwood 37027

Buyer: Fulimare LLC

Sale price: $7,195,000

Seller: Stonegate Homes LLC

Seller’s agent: Mary A. Kocina, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Buyer’s agent: Erin Krueger, Compass Tennessee, LLC.

This more than 10,000-square-foot home on two acres in Brentwood was Stonegate Homes’ 2022 Parade Home. It comes with a brand-new pool, an oversized covered back porch, outdoor kitchen, pool bath and privacy trees. The kitchen boasts two islands and there’s also a hidden prep kitchen. (Who wants to KNOW people are cooking?) On the main level, the home has two suites — one that has its own private sitting room, spa-style bath, coffee bar and two oversized walk-in closets. The second level includes four bedrooms with en suite facilities and a laundry room, a bonus room and an office that leads to a “man cave.” “This home checks every box!,” the listing says. And for just more than $7 million, it better.

2. 3800 Woodlawn Drive, Nashville 37215

Buyers: Pauline and Pierre Pons

Sale price: $5.35 million

Sellers: Harriet G. and Bradley S. Karro

Sellers’ agent: Richard B. French, French King Fine Properties

Buyers’ agent: Unknown

The last time this home sold, it was 20 years ago and the Post wrote about it in detail. The home then sold for $1.75 million, a real steal compared to $5.35 million, even considering inflation and the price of gas and lumber.

The 7,500-square-foot home is on almost 2.5 acres on the beautiful Woodlawn Drive. In 2003 it was purchased by Bradley Karro, then executive vice president of corporate development of Caremark Rx right as the company was relocating to Nashville. The year before that it was the Junior League Decorators’ Show House.

As the Post noted in 2003, Hillcote has been home to many known locals: “Other locally prominent business people have

owned Hillcote. Tony and Pamela Iannacio purchased the property in 1994 for $1.1 million. London-born attorney Tony Iannacio had been with Baker, Donelson, Bearman & Caldwell before joining a law firm in Tampa. His wife, Pamela Iannacio has worked as an event planner and runs a concierge service. Previously, Paul C. Buff owned Hillcote from 1992 to 1994. A former California music producer, Buff moved to Nashville and started Paul C. Buff Inc.’s White Lightning, a supplier of professional photo lighting equipment. Former head of First American, Ken Roberts owned the estate from 1976 to 1992.”

The new owners, Pauline and Pierre Pons, are alliterative masters and the heads of TPC Management Company, which provides consulting across the automotive industry. The Tudor-revival style home was built in 1914 and in 2003 included many of the same highlights: a heated swimming pool, tennis court, guesthouse and children’s playhouse. The classics never really go out of style.

3. 9314 Edenwilde Drive, Brentwood 37027

Buyer: 9314 Edenwilde LLC

Sale price: $5,083,703

Seller: Mike Ford Custom Builders LLC

Seller’s agent: Mary A. Kocina, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Buyer’s agent: Unknown

This new build — yet another Mike Ford joint — in the Witherspoon subdivision has an open kitchen and great room with access to a porch. It also has a full walkout basement that opens up to the backyard. There’s an elevator that takes you to each level with six bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms aplenty. A bonus room, flex room, game room and basement fill out the 10,000 square feet.

4. 3514 Bailey Road, Franklin 37064

Buyer: Braverman Family Trust

Sale price: $5 million

Seller: BGCTN LLC

Seller’s agent: Alex Helton, Helton Real Estate Group

Buyer’s agent: Charles (Charlie) Neese, Zeitlin Sothebys International Realty

This estate in Leiper’s Fork near Franklin is full of “gently rolling hills, peaceful pastures and soft winding roads lined with horse fences.” This home has more land and less inside space than the last few homes: 8.15 wooded acres and 5,000 square feet, respectively. It was designed by Paul Bates Architects, who has been featured in Architectural Digest, Southern Living and Garden & Gun.

5. 9306 Edenwilde Drive, Brentwood 37027

Buyers: Christine A. and Jonathan A. Meyers Sale price: $4,234,827

Seller: Mike Ford Custom Builders LLC

Seller’s agent: Mary A. Kocina, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Buyers’ agents: Gary Ashton and Dana Olsen, The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage

What? It’s Mike Ford again, y’all. This time with a massive 7,200-square-foot home with a porte cochere, five bedrooms, five bathrooms, four-car garage, two-story foyer, wine storage, gourmet kitchen, covered rear porch and more. This one also has an elevator and “too many details to mention.”

6. 5106 Seward Road, Brentwood 37027

Buyer: Link J. Banks, trustee, 5106 Seward Road Trust

Sale price: $4,073,326

Seller: TCG 5106 Seward Cre LLC

Seller’s agent: Ryan Meadows, Nashville Property Group

Buyer’s agent: Darcy Collins, Tim Thompson Premier REALTORS

This 6,000-square-foot home is another new luxury custom home, this time built by Pantheon Development. It overlooks hole No. 9 at the Brentwood Country Club and is within walking distance to several Brentwood restaurants and shops. The new owner, who purchased the home via a trust, will enjoy five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a four-car garage and three fireplaces.

7. 1762 Hillmont Drive, Nashville 37215

Buyers: Laura and Matthew Breen

Sale price: $4 million

Seller: Advanced Design Systems LLC

Seller’s agent: Mary Beth Thomas, VILLAGE, John G. Brittle, Jr., PARKS

Buyers’ agent: Regina Smith, Pilkerton Realtors

Laura and Matthew Breen have picked up “a rare jewel on a quiet street.” The home in lucky spot No. 7 is a gated estate home situated on a half-acre lot with a backyard “inspired by some of the world’s most luxurious resorts complete with a pool, cabana, fire pit (and) cauldrons.” Who doesn’t love a cauldron in these modern times?! This home, which was designed by Branan White, includes almost 7,500 square feet of “unique timelessness.”

8. 3914 Harding Place, Nashville 37215

Buyer: Jackie Lynn Crabtree, trustee, Jackie Lynn Crabtree Revocable Trust

Sale price: $3,995,420

Seller: Richland Building Partners LLC

Seller’s agents: Chris F. Harwell and Sharon Kinser, Tarkington & Harwell Company, LLC

Buyer’s agent: Tony Crabtree, Exit Realty Bob Lamb & Associates

This listing says that with this home it

“turns out you *can* have your cake & eat it, too.” The home is near Percy Warner Park and Radnor Lake and is within driving distance to Green Hills shopping and dining. The new 6,300-square-foot abode includes a “signature pivot front door” that opens to a wall of windows and floating stairs with a glass railing. As for the making of the actual cake, there’s a chef’s kitchen with a walk-in pantry, but another one of those hidden prep areas to keep things visually clean. There are walk-out decks on all levels of the home and a pool and hot tub outside.

9. 6113 Pinehurst Drive, Nashville 37215

Buyers: Whitney L. and Marcus J. Gilmour, trustees, Gilmour Family Trust Sale price: $3.85 million

Seller: Legacy Homes Of TN LLC

Seller’s agents: McClain Holloway Franks and Paxton Williams, Battle Ground Realty

Buyers’ agent: Marsha Simoneaux, Fridrich & Clark Realty

This multi-level home comes with six bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms with all designer tile and glass showers. The great room flows straight into an open-concept kitchen that has a bar and breakfast nook. The house also has a full-service wet bar and something called a “Beverage Center.” (I don’t know what this is, but I love the sound of it.) Though this home already has 7,100 square feet of living space, there’s more room to expand in some unfinished spaces in the home.

10. 402 Bridge Street, Franklin 37064

Buyers: Laura and Ryan Grant Sale price: $3,593,940

Seller: Headden Real Estate LLC

Seller’s agents: Jennifer Bickerstaff and Cliff O’Sullivan, Compass RE Buyers’ agent: Unknown

This historic 1833 home a block from Main Street in Franklin was renovated by Layson Building Company. The company restored many of the home’s original features and upgraded nearly every room in some way. The reno added space and the home now has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms. It retains a dual courtyard with space for a small pool. The new owners of this old space are CEO Laura Grant of GTS Technologies and husband and COO of GTS Ryan Grant.

This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

Five free and cheap family things to do in middle Tennessee

BY AMANDA HAGGARD

This upcoming weekend, there are a plethora of Easter egg events and such — we highlight three here this week in Murfreesboro, Lebanon and Nashville. (There are definitely more out there, but these appear to be the biggest, if that’s your

thing. Get that candy and prizes.)

If you’re looking for something more on the calm side of things: There’s an Afternoon Tea over in East Nashville with promises of nature and warm beverages.

And if your family is looking for a little

support and help through a difficult time of grieving, there are two classes focused on how to help our little ones understand and feel their way through tragedy.

As part of our series on free and cheap things to do with the family, here is our weekly roundup of places to spend time together over the next week:

SUPPORT YOUR GRIEVING CHILD

Alive Hospice in Nashville is hosting two free family webinars to support families after the Covenant School shooting. The webinars, which are called Support Your Grieving Child, on April 6 will “provide critical information and answer questions to help parents foster communication and connection with their children in the wake of loss.” There is a suggested $5 donation, but Alive Hospice says a donor has paid for these sessions. Advance registration is required.

AFTERNOON TEA

Most kids are out of school on Friday, and if you’re looking for a relaxing way to end the week, head down to Shelby Bottoms Nature Center to cozy up with a cup of tea. The event includes a selection of teas from High Garden Tea, including the Shelby Bottoms Blend. “We’ll sip our tea as we look

out from the porch or the windows and see what’s going on in the park,” the event says. I feel more relaxed thinking about it.

LEBANON EASTER EGG HUNT

The City of Lebanon is slated to host an Easter egg hunt for the community at Jimmy Floyd Center beginning at 10 a.m. on April 8. The event is for all ages.

EGG HUNT AT FUMC MURFREESBORO

At First United Methodist Church in Murfreesboro, they’re hosting a GIANT Easter egg hunt. The event includes 10,000 eggs, a photo booth, bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals, a petting zoo and food trucks. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. and the massive hunt begins at 11 a.m.

COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT AT PLAZA MARIACHI

In Nashville, the Hispanic Family Foundation is having its own Easter Egg Hunt at Plaza Mariachi. In addition to the regular weekend happenings at the event space and community center, there will be live music and entertainment, contests and prizes. The fun begins at 1 p.m.

Former Ensworth star Dia transfers from Vanderbilt to Belmont

BY LOGAN BUTTS

Jordan Wright enters transfer portals

STAFF REPORTS

Senior forward Jordan Wright will leave Vanderbilt after four years as a regular contributor for the Commodores men’s basketball team.

According to 247Sports, Wright will have one year of eligibility left.

Coach Jerry Stackhouse’s first recruit in 2019, Wright averaged 10.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.1 steals this season, a slight step back from a breakout

junior season.

Wright is a past SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

Noah Shelby, Myles Stute and Malik Dia are also seeking to transfer, while Tyrin Lawrence will test the NBA Draft while maintaining eligibility to return to Vanderbilt. This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

Belmont’s Wells joining Lady Vols through transfer portal

BY LOGAN BUTTS

After a successful first campaign in the the Missouri Valley Conference, the Belmont women’s basketball program is starting the offseason with a setback when Bruins star Destinee Wells announced on Thursday that she would be transferring to in-state powerhouse Tennessee.

MVP in each of those seasons.

The upcoming senior averaged 18.1 points, 4.7 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in 91 games played at Belmont. In each of the last two seasons, she was named to the Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year watch list.

Vanderbilt men’s basketball has lost another player to the transfer portal, this time to a fellow Nashville squad. Former Ensworth star Malik Dia is headed to Belmont after spending his freshman season with the Commodores.

The four-star recruit played in 20 games for the Black and Gold last season, averaging 2.5 points in 8.5 minutes per contest. He was projected to be a reserve forward for Vanderbilt next season.

The Murfreesboro native will be help shore up a Bruins frontcourt that lost 6-9 starter Even Brauns to Iowa through the transfer portal. Dia, also 6-9, is now the fifth Commodore to enter the transfer portal following the program’s best season

in over a decade. He joins Jordan Wright, Myles Stute, guards Noah Shelby and Trey Thomas in exiting the program.

At Ensworth, Dia averaged 22.7 points and 9.9 rebounds per game as a senior, earning all-state honors for the second consecutive season. He was the leading scorer and named MVP of the Division II-AA Middle Region.

During his high school career, Rivals had Dia ranked as the number five recruit in the state of Tennessee and the 28thbest power forward in the country.

The Lakeland native has been one of Belmont’s most important players since arriving to campus, earning First-Team All-Conference honors in all three seasons as a Bruin.

As a freshman and sophomore, Wells helped spearhead back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances and first round upsets over 5-seeds Gonzaga and Oregon. She was also named the OVC Tournament

The upcoming senior will have two years of eligibility remaining at Tennessee and will help fill a hole a guard for the Lady Vols with Jordan Horstan declaring for the WNBA draft.

Stackhouse wins Ben Jobe award

BY LOGAN BUTTS

Several national college basketball awards were handed out over the weekend at the men’s Final Four in Houston, and Vanderbilt head coach Jerry Stackhouse was among the winners.

After being named a finalist for the Jim Phelan Award, the Skip Prosser Man of the Year award, and the Ben Jobe Award, Stackhouse was selected as the Jobe award winner, which is presented annually to the top minority coach in Division I.

The winner is chosen by a 10-member voting committee consisting of current and former head coaches and two senior staff members of CollegeInsider.com.

Stackhouse had already collected SEC Co-Coach of the Year honors after leading Vanderbilt to a 22-15 record,

the program’s best mark in over a decade. After nearly earning an NCAA Tournament bid with a late-season turnaround, the ‘Dores advanced to the NIT quarterfinals where they fell to eventual runner-up UAB 67-59 in Nashville.

Other Ben Jobe award finalists included Pittsburgh’s Jeff Capel, Providence’s Ed Cooley, Missouri’s Dennis Gates, Memphis’ Penny Hardaway, Houston’s Kelvin Sampson, Marquette’s Shaka Smart, Kansas State’s Jerome Tang, Texas’ Rodney Terry, and Indiana’s Mike Woodson.

Former Vanderbilt men’s basketball players Jordan Wright and Malik Dia

PHOTO BY DAVID RUSSELL

WE ARE GOING TO FIX IT

U.S. Representative Tim Burchett response to the deadly school shooting at Covenant School as it relates to gun violence said “We’re Not Going To Fix It.” Well that’s obvious as you continue to oppose control of assault weapon always using the Second Amendment as the excuse. The fact is you want people like yourself to have guns because the bottom line is you, and those like you are a bunch of cowards. Being cowards you have to have guns to back up you weakness, and guns are your only means of defense. You see when cowards can’t defend whats right they resort to guns. But Mr. Burchett, Ms. Blackburn, and Gun Advocate Cowards of the Tennessee General Assembly we are going to fix it because we are going to vote each and every one of you out of office. No one deserves to be in public office that oppose control of items that kills, and destroy. It is time that we put political parties aside, and put the well-being of the public at the forefront. Throughout the years that we have undergone this siege the only thing that you have offered is your prayers which isn’t worth a hill of beans. You want no control of assault weapons, but have no problems with them being available to people to obtain and used to kill our future, our children. You have no problem seeing families destroyed yet believe that you should still be elected. Well guess what we are no longer going to elect people like you. Prepare yourself for your pensions, and resolve yourselves to not being re-elected because ‘you’re not going to fix it, but we are!

THE SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE?

I am beyond Ticked-Off that I can’t escape the realization that Republicans primarily stand up against serious reforms outlawing average citizens from obtaining assault weapons (of war) and thus enable gun assaults and deaths of even children in schools (274 this year, more than ever before) again and again.

At the same time sanctimoniously mainly Republicans want to believe (and have us believe) they are “Pro-Life” because “murdering children is wrong”.

Guns being a leading cause of death to our children in America is unique to our country due to our love of assault weapons and other fire power which overshadows our love of life! The numbers speak a clear language revealing tragic contradictions.

SCHOOL SHOOTING

While watching the memorial on channel 4 about the tragic shooting in Nashville this past week, I noticed that Dr. Jill Biden, our First Lady, Mayor Mr.Cooper and many prominent people took the time out of their busy schedules to mourn the lives of the six

unfortunate men and women and children who were gunned down by a person who should NOT have been allowed to own a firearm. Had the Tennessee laws mandating a thorough background check (including a history of mental issues.) Who I did miss at the memorial service in Nashville’s public square was our Governor Mr. Bill Lee. Many, many prominent people who, I am sure have busy lives too were there to remember the fallen. Where were you?????

Were you up on the hill trying to see how you can make it easier to obtain a weapon? You should have been at home hanging your head in shame, because you sir have made it easier for just about anyone to purchase a gun. Even an assault weapon. Would it have been against the party for you to be in the same proximity with a Democrat much less the First Lady of the United States. You, sir should be ashamed.

I am not against owning a gun, with the atmosphere today you never know if a weapon would come in handy. BUT a class on gun safety and the proper use of a dangerous weapon should be mandatory. PLUS again a proper and thorough background evaluation.

REGARDING CLARIFICATION

Man, are you deaf and blind? Your writing “Trump did not urge “...Trumplicans to overthrow our form of Government...”

Were you in a coma on January 6? A lie as you indicate? An ex-president, insurrectionist, adulterer, liar, ego maniac, narcissist, misogynist, fraudulent, ******* not a liar? Get your head out of your butt and realize you’ve been had and the rest of the MAGApublicans. The ex-president is not trying to preserve our democracy, he’s trying to feather his nest with contributions from his cult following, like you. Take your blinders off and face the real truth.

I, too, am sickened by the loss of innocent lives here on March 27. I am truly sorry that our illustrious Governor Drippy Faucet lost two of his “best” friends in the shooting.

GDF freed up the state to open carry, purchase and kill. I only hope he can sleep with blood on his hands.

BLACKBURN

Hey Marsha, you can keep your thoughts and prayers as they don’t counteract the $1.3 million dollars you accepted from the NRA lobbyists. How dare you and the rest of the money-grabbing, two-faced pols in DC, sitting on your back side, doing nothing for your constituents or the human race by accepting these handouts. Who says votes can’t be bought? You are a prime example of the practice.

GUN REFORM

Before we can have gun reform which we badly need we must have Elected Officials Replacements. Anyone who believes that the Second Amendment is justification for those other than the military, and law enforcement should be allowed to have assault weapons are either crazy or crazy, and I submit that they’re both. Marsha Blackburn said her heart is broken that six people were killed recently at their school, but her bank account has 1.3 Million dollars from the NRA, yes 1.3 million dollars to vote for the justification of using assault weapons against people. Her heart may be broken, but I bet that her spirit is full as she rejoices over NRA Blood Money. Now is the time, and please don’t let it pass for us to vote ALL of those out of office who reject the control of assault weapons. The money that Marsha received from the NRA says “In God We Trust”, but it’s guns that they worship. Guns don’t kill children Republicans do!

FIXING THE ISSUE

I have really tried to stay out of this. But, this happened in my home state and in my hometown. Let’s look at how our Tennessee General Assembly Republican super majority defines problems and provides legislative solutions.

Problem 1. Protecting our children from female impersonators. Solution - Enact legislation to RESTRICT ACCESS to female impersonators.

Problem 2. Protecting our children from transgenders. Solution - Enact legislation to RESTRICT ACCESS to transgender health care.

Problem 3. Protecting our children from books containing history or actions considered inappropriate or uncomfortable by some parents.

Solution - Enact legislation to RESTRICT ACCESS to certain books.

Problem 4. Protecting our children from gun violence. Solution - Enact legislation to INCREASE ACCESS to guns.

Regardless of someone’s opinion on these individual issues, one must admit that the legislative responses are absolutely inconsistent.

So far, there have been no mass deaths of kids at a drag show, no mass deaths from transgender health care, and no mass deaths of children who read about uncomfortable historical accounts. Yet, our legislature has run headlong into making laws to fix these situations, without regard to serious debate or unintended consequences. And the solution to those first three issues was consistent. It was to restrict access.

Yet, when it comes to real deaths of real kids due to real guns, the legislative response has been to increase access to guns.

You can make grand gestures of thoughts

and prayers and divert all day by blaming the Nashville killings on mental illness, transgender persons, etc. But the ACCESS to guns designed only for killing is the real reason this happened. AND WE ALL KNOW IT!

Yet, our legislature refuses to enact any legislation to restrict access to guns. Red flag laws? Nope. Perhaps a misdemeanor for failing to lock up guns in automobiles? Nope. Perhaps gun safety classes before purchasing an assault weapon? Nope. Perhaps allowing 18 year olds to carry weapons without a permit? YESSSSSSSSSSSSS!

I send you my thoughts and prayers that you sincerely attempt to enact legislation that can resolve the real problem associated with mass shootings in this state and country. And, if you believe restricting access to something perceived as a problem is a proper legislative solution, perhaps sensible restrictions on access to deadly firearms is a good start to resolve this real problem.

RESPONSE TO GREEN HILLS SCHOOL SHOOTING

I want to comment on the “GREEN HILLS SCHOOL SHOOTING” letter. The letter writer stated “...get it through your ******* head that something has to be done, NOW.” I disagree with the writer. The time is not “NOW.” The time was and always will be at the voting booth. I hope the “school shooting” writer and all of Nashville not only read TICKED OFF but went further to read the article on page 4 of March 30 issue of THE NEWS. If you didn’t, here’s what it said – “Gov. Bill Lee’s office recently pushed legislation aimed at dismantling the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, an independent agency that has been advocating for children’s welfare for more than three decades.” Yet he was voted in for a second term. If you don’t vote and allow others to make up your mind, then this is what happens. From the Governor down to the Mayor and all the legislators and city council make decisions for your life and well being. So if you don’t vote in ALL city and state elections and get everyone you know to vote, then the injustices will continue. Every elected official should be worried about their seat on election day as long as bipartisanship is not on their minds when voting on or pushing for passage of “their” bills.

The comments in the Ticked Off column do not reflect the views of FW Publishing.

Gluten-free Coconut Cake with White Chocolate Cream

BY EDIBLE NASHVILLE

This light spring cake is perfect for Easter (and Passover as it’s gluten free). The cake uses 10 eggs, with the yolks forming the base of the cake with almond and coconut flour, and the whipped whites getting folded in at the end. The frosting uses whipped

cream instead of butter making a creamy, light dessert. Keep it in the fridge and serve chilled with fresh berries. You can make 3 (thinner) layers, by dividing the batter between 3 9-inch cake pans.

ACROSS

1 Like some plants that don’t need watering

5 “G’day, ___!”

9 French destination that’s one of UNESCO’s “Great Spa Towns of Europe”

14 October bir thstone

15 Bun holder, so to speak

16 Allergic reaction

17 Hark! And hear of the vengeful ruler who took great pleasure in expelling disloyal subjects, for he was the …

20 Apt recourse for a deal gone sour?

21 Lead-in to an alias

22 Kind of computer por t

24 T iny tunneler

25 What a pitcher allows in a baseball shutout

INGREDIENTS

¾ cup almond flour

2 tablespoons coconut flour

10 eggs, separated

1 tablespoon coconut rum

2 cups powdered sugar

¼ teaspoon cream of tartar

¼ teaspoon salt

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line both with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine almond and coconut flours. In a large mixing bowl, whip egg yolks until pale and thick (about 3-5 minutes). Add rum and powdered sugar to yolks, whipping well. Add flour mixture to yolk mixture until just combined, set aside.

2. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until foamy. Add cream of tartar and salt. Whip until stiff peaks form (not dry). Fold egg white mixture into yolk mixture with spatula until combined.

3. Pour batter into prepared cake pans. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool

THE FROSTING

3 cups heavy cream

1½ cups white chocolate morsels

2 teaspoons coconut rum

¼ teaspoon coconut extract pinch of salt

on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Remove from pans.

4. To prepare frosting, add 1 cup heavy cream to small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 2 minutes. Add chocolate morsels, whisking until smooth. Add rum, coconut extract, and salt. Stir until combined. Let cool.

5. In a large bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the cooled chocolate mixture and gently fold in. Do not overmix.

6. To assemble: layer cake using frosting between each layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with coconut flakes and blackberries, if desired. Chill 3 hours before slicing.

Follow Edible Nashville on instagram @ediblenashtn and their website ediblenashville.com. To subscribe to the magazine that comes out 6x/year, go to ediblenashville.com.

28 Listen now! And I shall relate the story of the curious sovereign who adorned his castle with images of red fruit, for he was the …

31 Common theme par k sight

32 “Au contraire, ___ frère”

33 CPR provider

34 ___ Day (Down Under holiday)

36 Young seal

38 Longtime “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat

42 Sellout sign

44 Glimpsed

46 Walker’s aid

47 Lend me your ear!

And I will speak of the clumsy monarch who took twice as many golf strokes as his opponents, for he was the …

50 Ice cream order

51 Fury

52 Guitarist Paul

53 Quaint lodging

54 Letter opening

57 Give heed! And listen to my tale of the mad tyrant who decreed that all toilets in his realm be installed the wrong way, for he was the …

62 Worrier’s words

63 Element of the Vegas strip?

64 French girlfriend

65 Like many attics

66 Zesty flavor

67 Holler DOWN

1 Dandy

2 Donkey Kong, e.g.

3 German engineer who designed and built the first practical automobile (1885)

4 Otherwise

5 Cher or Madonna, e.g.

6 Experimental-butaccessible music genre

7 What a poker player wears shades to hide

8 With all judges present

9 Mobile dwelling for modern nomads

10 “So gross!”

11 Award-winning science fiction writer

Ted

12 Din from a gaggle

13 Class with mats

18 ___ Little, “The Wire”

antihero

19 Came to

22 Sch. whose newspaper is the Daily Bruin

23 Knee/ankle connector

26 Parts of glasses

27 Remove from a bulletin board, say

29 What “Why?” tries to uncover

30 Occupied

35 Gunk

37 French for “butterfly”

39 Cer tain legal consequence

40 Hathaway of film

41 Beer holders

43 With Springsteen, co-host of the podcast “Renegades: Born in the USA”

45 “Over There,” e.g.

47 Chowderheads

48 Discovered, Britishstyle

49 Move, in real estate jargon

50 Screw-up

53 Footnote abbr.

55 It’s just a thought

56 Verbal thumbs-up

58 Dennings of “2 Broke Girls”

59 Ironically humorous

60 Zilch

61 Come together, as plans

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 9,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/ crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/ studentcrosswords.

EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ NO. 0301

ANSWER TO PUZZLE

PUZZLE BY AARON M. ROSENBERG

TPAC Gala Patrons Party

PHOTOS BY DANIEL MEIGS

On Tuesday, March 28, roughly 200 guests gathered at The Electric Jane for the TPAC Gala Patrons Party, a lively cocktail party for the organization’s most devoted supporters and corporate partners. Guests enjoyed a selection of spirited signature cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres, while enjoying jazz tunes from the Wes Bailey Band at a fundraising event that benefitted the organization’s nationally recognized educational, cultural, and community engagement initiatives.

The Patrons Party was underwritten

by Sidewalk Records, a division of Curb Entertainment. Additional sponsors of the TPAC Gala and Patrons Party include BlueCross Blue Shield of Tennessee, CinemaSins, Dollar General, Hardaway Construction, Broadway Across America, Butler Snow, Delek Hope, Earl Swensson Associates, Fifth Third Bank, HCA Healthcare and TriStar Health, I.C. Thomasson Associates, Martha Rivers Ingram, JohnsonPossKirby, Nissan and Vanderbilt University. Flowers were designed and provided by Gossamer.

TPAC Vice President of Leadership Giving Diana Pelham and Zach Pelham

TPAC Gala 2023 Co-chairs Allison Lechleiter and Tiffany Degrafinreid

Mary Brenna Corr and Matt Dempsey

Norm Scarborough and Kim Hewell, Shari and Red Martin

Alexandria Bailey, Jason Jenkins, TPAC President and CEO Jennifer Turner

TPAC Board Member Reggie Hill, TPAC Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer Jim Timm

Kyle Floyd, Peter Depp and Jay Joyner, and Steve Sirls

Laura Osnes, and Carrie Monolakos

Lindsay Youngbauer and Stephen Frohsin

Hope Clinic for Women Gala

Supporters of Hope Clinic for Women – a Nashville-based organization that serves women, men, and families dealing with unplanned pregnancies, access to women’s healthcare, prevention education, pregnancy loss, and postpartum depression – gathered at Marathon Music Works Thursday, March 23, to celebrate the organization’s 40th anniversary with a goal of raising $400,000.

The evening, themed “Radiant Possibilities,” featured a sit-down dinner accompanied by a program of speakers –including recent and past clients, founders and donors of the organization, as well as Hope Clinic CEO, Kailey Cornett – and musical performances by Grammy and Dove Award winner Rebecca St. James. Local K-LOVE DJ Carlos Aguiar served as emcee. The event also featured a living history wall to commemorate significant happenings in the last 40 years, and donors who gave a night-of gift of more than $5,000 were able to take home a hand-painted original porch tile from the clinic’s home at 1810 Hayes Street, saved from a 2015 renovation of the clinic’s front porch.

“We really wanted to honor the 40year legacy of Hope Clinic for Women at this year’s gala,” said Cornett. “In the last

40 years, Hope Clinic has seen 20,000 babies born into this world. We created safety and community for 30,000 mothers. We educated 40,000 people on healthy relationships and choices. We provided healthcare services to 16,000 women, and we counseled 2,000 women, men, and couples through depression, grief, and loss. That’s a lot to celebrate. And we believe we can do so much more.”

The $400,000 fundraising goal was chosen in honor of the 40-year anniversary and was exceeded through generous donations from individuals and business sponsors, including Homelift, Hisway Painting, Anderson Design Group, Liesel Holcomb Realty, Hunt Brothers Pizza, Southeast Financial, John Bouchard & Sons, Renasant Bank, Krista Jameson Realty, Stansell Electric, BACAR Construction, Fidelity Offset Printing, Bounty Bev, Village Bakery & Provisions, Curated Events, and Flavor Catering. To further help attain the goal, a match grant in the amount of $80,000 was created by a handful of Hope Clinic supporters, allowing any night-of donation by a new donor to be doubled.

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Crowd at the gala

Client speaker and Kailey Cornett

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOPE CLINIC FOR WOMEN

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