June 13, 2024

Community members mourn the death of Aayden Hayes

The 13-year-old was shot and killed in Bellevue by another teenager on May 29

BY KELSEY BEYELER

Holding candles and purple and blue balloons, hundreds of people gathered in Bellevue’s Red Caboose Park Wednesday evening to honor the life of 13-year-old Aayden Hayes, who was shot and killed at the park on May 29 during a fight between two groups of teenagers. On Wednesday, candles were laid out in the spot where he was killed. Hayes’ 16-year-old sister An’Raya was also shot and wounded that night. Fifteen-year-old De’Anthony Osasosifo is being charged with criminal homicide and attempted criminal homicide in connection

with the shooting.

“Aayden — if it wasn’t for him, I really wouldn’t be standing here right now,” said An’Raya. “I think about that day every day, every night before I go to sleep. It is hard. … And I’m trying to do this for him, because I know this is what he would want me to do. And I’m trying to live for him and keep his name, so everybody knows that he died for a purpose.”

An’Raya was one of several people who spoke Wednesday night. Loved ones shared stories about Aayden, including a young

boy who talked about how he and Hayes would play and tell stories together. Aayden’s mother Hope Leach talked about how sweet her young teenager was, and how he would always give her a hug and a kiss before and after school.

“He just brought so much joy to our lives, and he was his sisters’ keeper, he loved his sisters,” said Leach. “If you messed with his sisters, he’d be right there to defend them even though he was the baby. His brother told him ‘take care of his sisters,’ and that’s what he did.”

BY NICOLLE S. PRAINO

Metro Council held a public hearing on the operating budget at its meeting Tuesday night, with a 3.5 percent cost of living adjustment for Metro employees one of the key topics discussed.

Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s proposed budget includes the 3.5 percent COLA (cost of living adjustment) increase. In contrast, the local chapter of the Service Employees International Union is seeking a 5 percent COLA so as to keep up with the current inflation rate of about 3.4 percent (down from about 4.9 percent this time in 2023).

Alexandria Danner, the SEIU Local 205 official representing Metro employees, said 3.5 percent falls short of the Civil Service Commission’s recommended 4 percent and would fail to maintain pace with inflation levels and the increase in the cost of housing in Nashville.

“Asking us to accept a 3.5 percent COLA is asking every Metro and MNPS employee and their families to accept a pay cut. We cannot keep chasing inflation,” Danner said. “We cannot hope to continue to grow as a city if we are not providing for the people that keep the city running.”

During the public hearing, which lasted about three hours, citizens spoke on issues such as Metro employee wage increases, community safety initiatives

An’Raya Hayes speaks during a vigil for her brother Aayden Hayes. PHOTOS: HAMILTON MATTHEW MASTERS

Community members mourn

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“I just want him to fly high,” said Hayes’ stepfather Jonathon Shaw. “I just want parents to come together, us grown people, and we need to come together to stop gun violence for these kids. … [His mother] shouldn’t be going through this, no mother should be going through this, no mother should be burying their child, especially not their baby. Especially not Aayden.”

A spokesperson from the Metro Nashville Police Department tells the Scene that of the seven homicide victims this year who were younger than 17 years old, six of them were gunshot victims.

Local gun safety advocates attended the event, including Rafiah MuhammadMcCormick and Trina Anderson of Mothers Over Murder, a group that was created to support parents who have lost their children to gun violence. Covenant School parent Sarah Shoop Neumann, who also spoke at the vigil, created a GoFundMe campaign for the family.

“The cost of gun violence, especially when you have a surviving victim in addition to one you lost, is astronomical,” said Neumann. “This family needs our support, physically and tangibly.”

Rep. Bo Mitchell (D-Nashville), who represents the area where Aayden was shot, also attended the vigil. He said the situation made him feel “powerless.”

“Another parent is burying a child, and the Tennessee General Assembly just refuses to do anything,” said Mitchell. The state’s Republican supermajority has relaxed firearm regulations in recent years, refusing to pass meaningful gun safety legislation.

Though many tears were shed at the vigil, there were also enthusiastic shouts as attendees celebrated Aayden’s life. People cheered “Long live Aayden” as they released balloons. Many shouted “Forever 13!”

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

and affordable housing support through the Barnes Fund.

While some residents spoke in support of the mayor’s proposed $30 million for the Barnes Fund, others were critical of it, explaining they would oppose the increased investment if it were to continue going to “profit-driven models” that provide affordable housing only for a short period before landlords raise rent.

Employees of Nashville General Hospital spoke up to support the more than $59 million funding appropriated to the Hospital Authority.

“This is a safety net hospital,” said Ann Still, a Nashville General labor and delivery nurse. “I’m here in support of keeping that hospital, the safety net hospital, that all of us may be one paycheck away from needing.”

Some Nashville youth and community advocates attended to support the Southern Movement Committee’s Varsity Spending Plan, a $10 million proposal that allocates funding for community centers, restorative justice and an office of youth safety.

Residents who work in the construction industry spoke on behalf of councilmember Sandra Sepulveda’s funding request for $300,000 to create a contract and compliance board and staff.

Tom Lee, a partner at the law firm Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, spoke on behalf of Alliance Bernstein, thanking the council for its partnership. The company was the first to come to an agreement with

Metro under its “Do Better Law” to disclose a workforce plan along with any workplace violations. Since then, Lee said AB has provided more than 1,000 jobs with pay levels above the median average. He thanked the council for upholding its promises in the economic investment as the company has. The FY25 budget includes $523,000 for Alliance Bernstein, $500,000 for Dell and $293,000 for Philips in economic incentives.

The budget was sent back to the budget and finance committee for further discussion after Councilmember Delishia Porterfield thanked attendees for their involvement, especially the youth who came to speak. She noted there will be a budget discussion today at 4 p.m. to discuss funding sources and invited the community members to join to find out more about funding options for their requests.

The council also held a public hearing for the capital improvement budget, though no one spoke, with the bill also sent back to committees for further review. Vice Mayor Angie Henderson reminded the council and the public that the capital improvement budget is a planning document for projects so that they may be included in the operating budget now and in the future.

Register of Deeds office to open at new location June 24

The Office of the Nashville-Davidson County Register of Deeds will be open June 24 in its new location at 300 Deaderick Street. The last day in the current location inside Bridgestone Arena will be June 21, with regular office hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

During the transition between offices, services will remain available and uninterrupted. This includes filing and recording of all property documents, liens, and releases; e-recording and remote filing; information services (in person, by phone and via email); provision of document and plat copies, and voter registration. Online access to records will be unaffected.

“We have been on a tight timeline for the relocation, and we thank the Nashville Predators for several additional weeks while our new space is being finished,” Register of Deeds Karen Johnson said in a release. “Our move is to support the Predators as their

needs grow. So, for them to support us at this time means a lot.”

The Register of Deeds move had been scheduled for June 3, but several key elements of the new location will not be finished by that date.

“As we make this exciting transition, we will maintain seamless service to those who rely on us in Nashville Davidson County,” Johnson said. “We ask for the public’s patience as we take steps to deliver a vastly improved customer experience. The new location will mean easier access to the Metro Courthouse and enhanced parking.”

The new Register of Deeds location is across the street from the Historic Metro Courthouse, where the Register’s Office was previously located. The new location is convenient for attorneys as well as anyone in need of the office’s various services.

Mayor takes latest step to land transit plan on ballot O’Connell

finalizes filing with Metro Council related to $3.1B initiative on which citizens will need to vote STAFF REPORTS

Mayor Freddie O’Connell is jockeying to include his proposed $3.1 billion transportation improvement plan on the November ballot, with a Metro Council vote the latest step toward that effort, his office announced Friday.

Pending council approval of the justfiled legislation, the Choose How You Move initiative, which O’Connell announced in April, would add an additional half-cent sales tax charge to give dedicated funding for the city’s transportation system.

The first reading is set for the June 18 Metro Council meeting.

The proposed sales tax increase is expected to cover about 40 percent of the

plan’s total cost, with the differential to be funded via fares, bonds and state and federal grant programs. O’Connell has said having a dedicated transit funding source will render Nashville more competitive, than otherwise, for limited federal grant funds.

Recurring costs may total an estimated $111 million.

Formally called Choose How You Move, An All-Access Pass to Sidewalks, Signals, Service, and Safety, the plan includes bus rapid transit, 86 miles of new or improved sidewalks, high-tech intersections to improve traffic flow, expanded bus service times, additional community transit centers and added security.

“Nashvillians told us in the Imagine Nashville survey that their top vision was for a more connected city, and today we take another step toward that goal,” O’Connell said in Friday’s release. “I appreciate the council’s consideration of this program and look forward to voters choosing the transportation future they’d like to see.”

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

Mayor Freddie O’Connell unveils details of his transit plan, April 19, 2024

Plaza Mariachi faces foreclosure sale

South Nashville Latino culture hub’s property owner has seen federal fraud charges

STAFF REPORTS

Plaza Mariachi’s owner is facing a foreclosure, with the South Nashville property set to be sold at auction on July 2, Nashville Banner reports.

Mark Janbakhsh bought the Nolensville

Pike property seemingly in 2015 for $2.75 million and opened the Hispanic cultural hub in 2017, the Banner reports, after investing $18 million and transforming its decor to mimic the streets of Latin

American cities.

Nashville Business Journal reports First Financial Bank, the property’s lender, submitted documents for foreclosure on Tuesday, according to Metro records.

With an address of 3955 Nolensville Pike, Plaza Mariachi accommodates restaurants, clothing and jewelry stores, the Hispanic Family Foundation headquarters and service businesses providing resources to Spanishspeaking customers. The space, which formerly housed a Kroger, regularly hosts salsa dance lessons, folk dancers, mariachi bands and other musical guests.

Janbakhsh, the founder of the Hispanic Family Foundation and owner of several Spanish-language radio stations, also saw his own Auto Masters business go bankrupt in 2018 in fraught proceedings. In 2022, he was federally indicted on 21 counts including fraud, false statements and witness tampering. He pleaded not guilty and is awaiting a trial.

NBJ reports several federal and state tax liens, dated from 2018 to 2021, have been filed against the property, citing Metro records. Local attorney David Anthony has been appointed the property’s substitute trustee, giving him responsibility to oversee the foreclosure sale, to be undertaken at the Metro Courthouse.

WTVF News Channel 5 reports Plaza Mariachi issued a press release that stated the property owner hopes to sell some surrounding properties and restructure the financial terms of the loan. The property owner contends he is not delinquent on his loan payments and operates in “positive cash-flow,” according to Channel 5. This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

Plaza Mariachi PHOTO: DANIEL MEIGS

PHOTO: HAMILTON MATTHEW MASTERS

Alabama man arrested in connection with 2023 white supremacist vandalism in Sylvan Park

BY MATT MASTERS

Metro Nashville Police arrested an Alabama man on May 26 in connection with the March 2023 vandalism that involved the spray painting of swastikas and other hate messages in Sylvan Park.

The 19-year-old man was 17 at the time of the incident and is facing charges in Davidson County’s Juvenile Court, meaning that his identity has not been made public. Police said that the man is a member of an unspecified white supremacist group.

Detectives learned that the man would be at a concert in Madison on May 26 where he was arrested without incident.

He has been charged with five counts of vandalism, five counts of engaging in a criminal conspiracy, five counts of criminal trespassing, five counts of civil rights intimidation, and one count of theft.

As previously reported, five homes on Westlawn Drive and Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado and Idaho Avenues were targeted by what police described at the time as “two white males who had their faces covered.”

Police increased patrols in the Sylvan Park neighborhood as well as in other areas of the city that house Jewish

institutions, while dozens of residents and other community members worked together to remove the graffiti and spoke out against the intimidation tactics.

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A still frame from a home security camera shows an unidentified person that police said vandalized several homes in Sylvan Park on March 19, 2023. PHOTO: MNPD

43 more local students named 2024 National Merit Scholarship winners

STAFF REPORTS

On Wednesday, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced this year’s college-sponsored National Merit Scholarship winners, and 43 of the honorees came from Davidson County and Williamson County schools.

The 2,900 Merit Scholar designees were chosen from a talent pool of more than 15,000 finalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

National Merit $2500 Scholarship winners are the finalists in each state judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. The number of winners named in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the nation’s graduating high school seniors.

These Scholars were selected by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors, who appraised

a substantial amount of information submitted by both the finalists and their high schools: the academic record, including difficulty level of subjects studied and grades earned; scores from the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test; contributions and leadership in school and community activities; an essay written by the finalist; and a recommendation written by a high school official.

2024 NATIONAL MERIT $2500 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Vincent Guo - John Overton

Minjae Bae - Ravenwood

John M. Coggin - Ravenwood

Amelia K. Croney - Brentwood

Garrett T. Crouch - Brentwood

Michael R. Dawson - Brentwood

Grace E. Helou - Ravenwood

Lukas Steven Gerald Jackson -

Pull up a chair at Brown’s Diner

Christ Presbyterian Academy Riya Nanda - Ravenwood

Arjun B. Nayagadurai - Brentwood

Ava M. Rice - Brentwood

Brodie D. Spillane - Brentwood

Robert H. Walch III - Brentwood

Luke C. Altman -

Christ Presbyterian Academy

Jason H. Bowles, Jr. - Franklin

Caden W. Bridges - Franklin

Caden R. Campbell - Franklin

Christopher C. Davis - Franklin

Jade C. Horne - Franklin

Evan Thomas Jaeger - Father Ryan

Wesley E. Jordan - Franklin

Mary F. Peck - Page

Weston B. Ragan - Independence

Kiran M. Rao - Independence

Elijah C. Sower - Independence

Ria R. Yesare - Ravenwood

Jonathan D. Zink - Franklin

Jack H. LockamyMontgomery Bell Academy

Madeline Bell - Harpeth Hall

Adam G. Harris - Valor College Prep

Emily Law - University School of Nashville

Tigran PolbornMartin Luther King Jr. Magnet

Jack H. Reynolds - Hume-Fogg

Tyler Parsons Reynolds - Hume-Fogg

Laila Sadlow - Hume-Fogg

Abigail K. Warren - Valor College Prep

Albin Brejeon - Nolensville

Stephen Job - Nolensville

Annabelle S. Mullenix - Nolensville

Meghan E. Wallace - Nolensville

Luke G. Wiggins -

Green Hill (Old Hickory resident)

Jackson T. Stinson - Summit

Mark A. Wittekind - Summit

Carmen E. Onusaitis - Independence

Storied establishment takes on role of ‘Witness Tree’ for locals

BY STEPHANIE SARGENT

So, what does a “Witness Tree” and a small diner somewhat close to the nexus of Belmont University and 21st Ave. have in common?

Well, a “Witness Tree” (according to several reputable sources) is present and remains during a profound cultural event. Storms came. The wind blew with a howl. The trees got their name from being able to “witness” a historically significant occurrence and stood strong. They remain there even after those things happened that shaped us

and made us.

Brown’s Diner is one of those “Witness Trees.” For almost a century, it has been a foundation for Nashville and has been a good friend as the city has grown from a biglittle-town to a big-big-town.

Brown’s Diner is one of those foundational parts of what most might deem “The Original Nashville.” It staked its claim and people have followed it for almost a century now. Founded in 1927,

this establishment — a second home for many — has been a host to locals looking for lunch, but most likely found a community of friends seeking the same along the way. If you’re hungry and looking for a place to post up for a minute, I highly recommend that you make a stop at Brown’s. It’s almost a guarantee that you’ll encounter one of the best cheeseburgers in town. But, it’s also likely that you’ll find some new best friends. (Five is the minimum.)

It’s nestled in Hillsboro Village, but, before we dive into Brown’s, let’s take a pause real quick and highlight the greatest parts of this neighborhood. Hillsboro Village is a bastion of everything that’s great about Nashville. It’s stationed between two of the most prolific universities and home to stalwarts of great times. The Villager Tavern, Jackson’s (while closed, we still remember you), and Fido.

Okay, back to Brown’s.

The first rule about Brown’s is that it’s governed mostly by the locals and you need to pay attention. The rules aren’t stated on the walls per se, but there is a silent constitution being enacted and enforced at all times. Frances owns the seat on the far right corner (she has earned it) and Greg “Blue” LeBleu has the seat next to hers. There is no negotiation here, and I would advise you to not attempt something similar. I ordered the cheeseburger and a side of onion rings because I adhere to a strict diet of meat and fried things.

The burger was the perfect mix of what the perfect lunch is comprised of. It reminded me of what you might find at a backyard barbecue in Oklahoma with your dad watching over the grill. Constructed with care.

The onion rings were also a win. 10/10, would recommend.

Be sure to say “hi” to Paul, Frances, “Blue” and Nikki (a.k.a. David) when you do.

Brown’s Diner PHOTO: ERIC ENGLAND

Area home median price hovers near $500K mark

GNR reports largest inventory figure since pre-pandemic period

STAFF REPORTS

The Nashville area saw 3,509 home closings in May — a 2 percent increase compared to the figure from May 2023 — with available inventory at its highest level since the pandemic hit in early 2020.

Relatedly, and according to a Greater Nashville Realtors release, the median price for a single-family home for the month was $499,996, down slightly from the $505,000 figure of the previous month. That seemingly was the first time the mark had topped $500,000.

The area saw 3,436 closings in May 2023 and 3,060 home closings in April. This follows 2,837 home closings in March — a 7 percent decrease compared to the figure of the same month in 2023, when 3,063 closings were recorded.

The median price for a condominium in May was $351,000, up from $349,900 in the same month of last year.

For a recent comparison, the median

providing buyers with more options and greater leverage in the current market,” he added. “With the continued rise in inventory, now at four months’ supply, is a welcome sign for buyers.”

The GNR data was collected from Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson and Wilson counties.

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

Two men charged with robbing Bellevue woman Sunday

STAFF REPORTS

Metro Nashville Police arrested two men MNPD say robbed a woman in Bellevue on Sunday.

22-year-old Queshon Demumbreum and 18-year-old Lamar Maddox were both charged with robbery and booked on a $100,000 bond after police said the duo attacked an unidentified woman who was walking her dog at the Cortland Bellevue Apartment complex.

evening

At approximately 5:15 p.m. “The suspects approached the victim, one had a fire extinguisher, and sprayed the dog,” an MNPD news release read.

“She was then pushed to the ground. They fled on foot with her bag containing her cell phone and car keys.”

Detectives spotted Demumbreum and Maddox near the complex where police said they found the pair in possession of the victim’s car keys.

Police said that the men “admitted their involvement” when interviewed about the attack.

OPINION

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

MINDFULNESS IN SCHOOLS

In regards to the article ‘Metro Nashville School District shares goals for alternative learning centers by Kelsey Beyeler. It sounds very much to me, that all of the programs being implemented in the Alternative Learning Centers need to be implemented in all of metro schools. Why wait until a child has an episode or problems at school before addressing them while they are in their regular school? The mindset of ‘preventative’ instead of ‘reactive’ needs to be in all areas of public service. Having a ‘preventative’ approach, saves time, money, and trouble and keeps things moving. I have been a long time advocate for Mindfulness in all schools everywhere. The cases studies and benefits across the board, bring nothing but positives to students, teachers and staff. I know there are some metro schools that practice Mindfulness. Ask them. I have communicated to Dr. Battle about it. It’s a proven method that corrects many of the problems experienced by students and teacher alike.

Now is the time to implement

Mindfulness

in all schools.

~Monica Armstrong

TO THE EDITOR

Recent rulings against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have introduced new requirements for real estate agents, particularly concerning buyer representation agreements. However, for the Middle Tennessee market, these changes are unlikely to bring significant disruption. Our region has long upheld the practice of utilizing buyer representation agreements, ensuring that buyers are adequately represented from the outset. The primary change is that these agreements must now be signed before an agent can show any property, reinforcing the importance of formal representation early in the home buying process.

It’s important to clarify that seller offers of compensation have not been eliminated. Sellers will continue to offer compensation to buyers’ agents, maintaining a key aspect of the transaction that encourages the use of professional representation. Buyers should remain confident in seeking out skilled

agents to guide them through their home search, as the expertise and negotiation skills of a professional can significantly enhance their purchasing experience.

Unrepresented buyers should be aware that opting to navigate the market without an agent does not guarantee a better deal. On the contrary, the complexities and potential pitfalls of real estate transactions can pose significant challenges without professional guidance. It’s crucial to remember that the listing agent’s fiduciary duty is to the seller, not the buyer, which underscores the risk for unrepresented buyers.

While NAR’s new regulations emphasize the need for early formal agreements, the fundamentals of buyer and seller representation in Middle Tennessee remain robust. Buyers are encouraged to utilize the services of professional Realtors.

~Scott Coggins

OGLES

“Ogles spends $335,000 on mailers funded by taxpayers” WOW, how about that. I use my money (or someones) to run for a government office then in order to stay in office I can use your money to aid in campaigning. SWEEEEEET. The fact that Andy Ogles used more taxpayer money than any other politician shouldn’t surprise anyone. After all isn’t he the one who has had a few questions about his financial dealings in the past? Not only do I feel Andy Ogles isn’t in office to benefit the people in Dist 5, I feel he is only there to benefit himself. But Ogles isn’t the only one using taxpayer money to his advantage, all of the Tennessean politicians in state govt. get the same benefits. It is my belief as is many others I have spoken to that a pauper can go into a government office and come out a rather wealthy person. So why should the TAXPAYERS be required to pay one cent towards reelection? Besides that I don’t even like Ogles or many of the other people sitting in the Tennessee U.S. House delegation and I vehemently

The Three Presidents Event was recently held at Radio City Hall in New York, the biggest fundraiser in Democratic Party history. Pictured from left to right: Dwayne Tucker, Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, Bill Freeman, Bob Freeman, Bill Clinton, and Tom Loftis. PHOTO:SUBMITTED

OPINION

TICKED OFF!

object to paying one cent to their campaign costs. These people can get into office and do a shitty job representing us and then expect us to finance their reelection campaign. Let the donors supply the money.

REMEMBER D-DAY!

Watching the D-Day memorial service today where close to 10,000 of our American soldiers are now buried at Normandy, where over 400,000 of our American soldiers died for freedom and democracy defeating the World War II NAZI regime of misaligned entitlement and hate (with Germany being lead by a misfit sociopath), I am ticked-off to think that Hitler was elected, Putin was elected and even the USA can lose all we stand for and cherish if we elect someone who is truly a deranged narcissist!

WHITEWASH

Clearly Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred buys his whitewash by the tanker load. The same week that he punished severely and correctly several obscure major and minor league players, who were mostly known only to their mothers and wives, for gambling on baseball. Then he completely exonerates

star Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani never missed his $14 million that his translator gambled away , because it came from the spare change between the cushions of his couch. I hope Joe jackson has a good sense of humor.

C-3 “CONSTANT CONTRARIAN COMPLAINER”

Glad to see the C-3 is up about, must of had a weekend pass from the funny farm. So let me get this straight. I can not voice my opinion about excessive noise from high power leaf blowers and mindless yard workers doing nothing more than wandering around in circles making NOISE and ruining an otherwise quite pleasant day. However, C-3 can call me an old fool? How about you sit in a garage with 2 leaf blowers, a loud broken muffler big truck and close the door. Mostly so no one has to deal with you. If you ever wonder why people are on edge it, it could be a lack of peace and quiet, and it could be old fools such as yourself pontificating their lack of intelligence.

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

AUCTION ESTATE

Imagine living on a charming street, surrounded by a picturesque community that feels like a scene from a fairy tale. Find this historical 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a basement, in this enchanting neighborhood, & now available at public auction. This estate home in Cherokee Park offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. With 4 spacious bedrooms, perfect for a growing family or creating guest rooms or home offices, and 2 bathrooms ready for your personal touch, this home has incredible potential. The sizable basement offers space for a recreation room, additional storage, or workshop. Unique historical features preserve its timeless charm. Conveniently located near West End and vibrant Sylvan Park, with a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, and just a short distance from the scenic Richland Greenway, perfect for outdoor activities. Although the home needs updates and remodeling, it’s a blank canvas waiting for your creativity and vision. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a historical home in Cherokee Park. Be ready to bid and bring your dreams to life!

Fraley becomes Vandy’s third individual NCAA champion

Grad student wins discus competition with fourth-round throw of

63.66 meters

STAFF REPORTS

Vanderbilt’s Veronica Fraley made history at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, capturing the NCAA discus championship on Saturday in Eugene, Ore.

Fraley won the title with a fourth-round throw of 63.66 meters, finishing ahead of Louisville’s Jayden Ulrich (63.05 meters) and Florida’s Alida van Daalen (62.44 meters).

A graduate student, Fraley became the third individual NCAA champion in Vanderbilt history, joining Ryan Tolbert (track and field, 1997) and Gordon Sargent (men’s golf, 2022).

“This week has been the NCAA Championship we have dreamed up,” Althea Thomas, Vanderbilt director of track and field Althea Thomas, said in a release.

Fraley posted three throws of more than 60 meters, and her 63.66-meter throw ranks 11th all-time in collegiate history.

The first-place finish capped quite a final collegiate season for Fraley, who competed three years (2019-21) at Clemson and two at Vanderbilt.

She was named the SEC Field Athlete and Scholar Athlete of the Year, won the SEC shot put crown and was runner-up in the discus. Fraley concludes her NCAA career with four All-America selections, two East Region titles, two SEC titles and an

NCAA discus championship.

Late last week, Fraley and teammates Lena Gooden and Sarah Omoregie produced performances that earned all three AllAmerica honors. Gooden broke the school record in the long jump with a 6.22-meter mark to place 16th. Fraley came in 16th in the shot put with a 16.44-meter mark to earn second-team honors in the event for the second year in a row. Omoregie, also in shot put competition, recorded a 17.35-meter throw, coming in seventh and earning her first-ever first-team selection.

“The effort that Lena gave in the biggest meet of her life, resetting the school record shows you where we are going as a program,” Thomas said. “Coach [Justin] Byron and Coach [Harold] Rose have done an amazing job developing her, and her future is bright.

“Sarah came here after being a secondteam All-American last year [at Harvard] and got her first first-team honor. She’s a very focused athlete, and she shows up when it matters most. Veronica made a statement today. She persevered and became a national champion.”

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

Ensworth hires former Lady Vols assistant Sharonna Reeves as head girls basketball coach

Former Oakland HS star to replace Mary Taylor Cowles

BY LOGAN BUTTS

Last week, Ensworth announced former Tennessee assistant Sharrona Reeves will be named the school’s next head girls basketball coach.

The Murfreesboro native will be replacing Mary Taylor Cowles, who resigned in April to become the athletic director and girls basketball coach at Foundation Christian Academy in Kentucky.

Cowles led the Tigers to four Division IIAA state titles and 200-48 record during her nine seasons at the helm.

“I am deeply honored to be named the head girls basketball coach at Ensworth,” Reaves said in a release from Ensworth.

“This program has always been known for winning championships, and it is my intention to continue the legacy and respect built by Mary Cowles. I would

like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Head of School Prentice Stabler and Athletics Director Jason Maxwell for this great opportunity. I am excited to be a part of the Ensworth community.”

Reaves returns to Middle Tennessee with an extensive college basketball coaching resume, including stints as an assistant coach at Troy, Mississippi State, and West Virginia and time as head coach at LIU Post and College of Central Florida.

The former Oakland High School star also coached under Holly Warlick on the Lady Vols staff from 2016-19. She also had a brief stint coaching middle school basketball at the University School of Nashville.

“Sharrona brings a great deal of experience to our program and her passion for the game of basketball is undeniable,”

Ensworth athletic director Jason Maxwell said in the release. “Sharrona is a person of high integrity, and she will continue the tradition of excellence set forth by her predecessor, Mary Cowles.”

Following her time at Oakland, Reaves spent two seasons at Okaloosa-Walton Community College before transferring to Alabama. Reaves helped lead the Crimson Tide to two NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four run in 1994 during which she was the team captain. This past season, Ensworth went 16-11 and fell to Briarcrest 56-50 in the first round of the DII-AA state playoffs. The Tigers had reached the state title game in five of the past six seasons prior to 2023-24.

Sharrona Reaves PHOTO: ENSWORTH

Veronica Farley PHOTO: VANDERBILT ATHLETICS

Vols club their way to another College World Series appearance

BY JOHN GLENNON

CITY OF OAK HILL PUBLIC HEARING

The City of Oak Hill, Tennessee, hereby provides certain financial information for the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget in accordance with the requirements of Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 6, Chapter 56, Section 206. There will be a public hearing concerning the budget at City Hall, on JUNE 25th, 2024 at 6:00 PM. All citizens are welcome to participate. The budget and all supporting data are a public record and are available for public inspection by anyone at the City Hall.

Tennessee’s baseball team left nothing to chance on Sunday.

One defeat away from what would have been a massive upset in the Knoxville Super Regional, the Volunteers stepped up and clobbered Evansville 12-1 in a decisive Game Three, advancing to their third College World Series in the past four years.

Top-seeded Tennessee (55-12) will next play eighth-seeded Florida State in the CWS, which begins Friday in Omaha, Neb.

It’s the seventh CWS trip for the Vols, who have never won the national title.

In bouncing back from a surprising 10-8 loss to the 16th-seeded Purple Aces (3926) on Saturday, the Vols smashed seven home runs to tie the school’s single-game record. Christian Moore and Dalton Bargo each clubbed two homers, with Cal Stark, Dean Curley and Billy Amick having belted one apiece. It marked the most home runs Tennessee has hit in a postseason contest.

That offensive barrage was more than enough to overcome the briefest of scares, as Evansville took a 1-0 lead in the top of the

first inning. Moore’s home run in the bottom of the first tied the score, Curley’s blast put the Vols up 2-1 in the second and Tennessee ran up its 12-1 advantage in the first five innings. Moore has tallied a program-record 32 home runs.

In six NCAA Tournament games this year, the Vols have piled up 64 runs, averaging nearly 11 per contest.

Tennessee has hit 26 home runs in those six games, swatting at least three in each contest. The 14 home runs the Vols hit in their three Super Regional games extended the team’s single-season school record to 173. Vols starting pitcher Zander Sechrist muzzled the Purple Aces, allowing just six hits and one unearned run in 6-1/3 innings. He struck out six and didn’t walk a batter. Four Vols relievers held Evansville without a hit over the final 2-2/3 innings.

Tennessee’s victory gave the Vols a 40-4 record at Lindsey Nelson Stadium this year. This story was first published by our sister publication Nashville Post.

City of Oak Hill, Tennessee

Notice of Public Hearing

The City of Oak Hill Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing on June 11th, 2024, at 5:00 PM at the City of Oak Hill Offices, 5548 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN 37072

The Public Hearing will be held during the Special Called Board of Commissioner’s Meeting for the following Ordinance: Ordinance 2024-4

An Ordinance adopted for the purpose of amending the City of Oak Hill, Tennessee Municipal Zoning Ordinance regulating development within the corporate limits of Oak Hill, Tennessee, to minimize danger to life and property due to flooding, and to maintain eligibility for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.

You may view the entire Ordinance Document at the City’s Website at www.oakhilltn.us

Tony Vitello

PHOTO: DAVID RUSSELL

Porterfield favors salary increases, department cuts in alternative council budget

Councilmembers get behind bigger cost-of-living increases

after a

broad appeal from Metro employees

BY ELI MOTYCKA

Metro councilmembers are preparing to cut city department funding to deliver bigger salary increases for Metro employees — a key difference between the chamber’s budget and the operating budget proposed in May by Mayor Freddie O’Connell. Officials met on June 5 for the last of three work sessions led by Budget and Finance Committee Chair Delishia Porterfield, the at-large councilmember who is authoring the council’s alternative budget.

For almost three hours, members drained their beverages of choice — Dr. Pepper for Porterfield, iced tea and Diet Coke for colleagues — while discussing the city’s spare change. Porterfield’s task involves cobbling together the spending priorities of the 40-member council while making sure her proposed budget ends up legally compliant, functional and balanced. If the council doesn’t pass its own budget by July 1, O’Connell’s will go into effect by default. At the work session, members repeatedly referenced the previous night’s contentious and emotional public hearing, at which Metro employees spoke about poor pay and the need for salary increases to match

Nashville’s skyrocketing cost of living.

Flat tax revenues haven’t given lawmakers the room to say yes to everyone. At the June 5 meeting, Porterfield brought out consensus among the room to prioritize employee raises even if it means cutting funding allocations to departments. Shifting funding from departments to cityside salary bumps would be a significant break from the budget proposed by O’Connell.

Budget officer Aaron Pratt, representing the Finance Department, began the meeting with a presentation methodically eliminating various pots of money that councilmembers thought they could access. Councilmembers’ spending “wish lists,’’ submitted earlier this month, included funding sources like the Barnes Housing Trust Fund, Metro’s Judgment and Losses Fund, and so-called contingency accounts that, Pratt said, can’t be touched for one reason or another. If members are ready to spend down all surplus in the city’s 4 percent fund — a legally required reserve — they have $4 million to work with.

“Our job is to maintain that we’re structurally balanced and that we’re fiscally

compliant,” Pratt told legislators. “The one only available source seems to be — well, is — residuals in the 4 percent. My job is to just provide guardrails.”

A full salary package would include an annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), a $20-per-hour floor for wage workers, step increases along Metro’s predetermined pay schedule and merit increases for qualifying employees. O’Connell’s budget came in with a 3.5 percent COLA, short of the Metro Civil Service Commission’s recommended 4 percent. During the public comment portion of the June 4 council meeting, Metro employees petitioned for 5 percent.

“I’m asking for you not to forget about us after today,” Jessica Curry, who works as support staff in Metro schools, told councilmembers that night. “The cost of living is at an all-time high. We need a 5 percent COLA to go with our piece of the pie.”

Each half-percent takes $7 million, Porterfield told colleagues the following day. She said arguing over which types of increases to fund, like COLA or merit, was a false choice.

“I would love to do both,” said

Porterfield. “The question is, is it the will of the body to touch departments so that we can do both? I want us to pay all of our employees, and I want us to pay them well.”

As she recognized members to speak during the budget work session, no one wanted to advocate against raising employee pay. Testimony from Curry and dozens of other Metro workers seemed to have made a lasting impression. Over the course of the meeting, discussion shifted to cuts. Rather than continue to balance the budget on the backs of teachers and Metro employees, Porterfield said at one point, it was time to look at well-funded departments that may have more money than they need. She used the Metro Nashville Police Department and the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office as specific examples. Historically, both have enjoyed strong pull within the mayor’s office and faced little resistance to requests during budget season. One by one, members got behind Porterfield with fervor. They specifically favored clawing back funding from departments with positions that have remained unfilled.

“I support trying to find the 5 percent COLA,” said District 16 Councilmember Ginny Welsch. “As you know, I have my scalpel in my bag for cutting any departments.”

“I think we should also expand the scope and not just look at unfilled positions,” said District 30 Councilmember Sandra Sepulveda, also appearing to set sights on MNPD. “Some of these departments just received new equipment, and they’re potentially asking for more new equipment when they were just funded some.”

“We can pillage health and other departments and figure out where we can get money from — I think that’s fair,” said Joy Styles of District 32. “We need to make sure our workers are taken care of.”

Tasha Ellis, Joy Kimbrough, Thom Druffel and Kyonzté Toombs (vice chair of the Budget and Finance Committee) also got behind department cuts in concept. The specifics come down to Porterfield. Councilmember At-Large Zulfat Suara, a CPA by day, put the situation in the clearest terms.

“I wish we had the money,” Suara said, smiling. “It would make it a whole lot easier. But I am open to looking at departments. I’ll leave the calculations to Finance, and Madam Budget Chair.”

As of press time, Porterfield has not yet filed her alternative budget.

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

Councilmember At-Large Delishia Porterfield PHOTO:ERIC ENGLAND

Lipscomb, MNPS reach agreement over old Stokes School site

BY NICKI PENDLETON WOOD

The former Walter Stokes School site at the south end of Belmont Boulevard is about to get a new purpose—and a new building.

Lipscomb University and Metro Nashville Public Schools have entered an

agreement that would construct a new facility at the site for teaching teachers, a “demonstration school.”

The long-disused facility was last used as a school during the 2008 Julia Green

School renovation.

The new build will be a “demonstration school for teaching teachers with dedicated space, time and expertise going especially to high-dosage tutoring, the type Metro most needs to catch up learners who are lagging,”

Adrienne Battle, director of Metro Nashville Public Schools, said at a community meeting at Hillsboro High School on June 3.

Other attendees at the meeting included MNPS Chief of Staff Hank Clay; Casey Megow, MNPS director of facility planning and construction; District 25 Councilmember Jeff Preptit; and Lipscomb University President Candice McQueen.

First steps are hazmat abatement, then paperwork on bids and awards, drafting a contract, and obtaining permits. The project will go to the Metro Council, in part for funding. MNPS officials anticipate working with other universities and community groups for support and funding.

Demolition is set to begin in June and involves first taking down the brick, which will be reused as fill in the basement footprint.

The new facility will be constructed according to sustainability guidelines. Metro is now at LEED Silver standards, and the building will meet those standards at a

minimum. (Longer term, department plans are underway for eventually building solarready and geothermal-ready schools.)

The new Stokes building will look similar to the existing building and will be leased to Lipscomb University on a 30-year lease with a 10-year optional extension.

It’s not the first collaboration between MNPS and Lipscomb—the two entities are already collaborating on college and career experiences for Metro students, and the university offers some full-ride scholarships to Metro students.

In the neighborhood, enthusiasm for Stokes School’s new arrangement may be less robust. One area resident noted that MNPS has sold off small schools over the years, and then later needed them as young families moved into the area.

Another resident said “Lipscomb has repeatedly broken its promises to the neighborhood in regards to its overlay. They promised they wouldn’t cross Belmont Boulevard, then started buying up properties on the other side of Belmont and told the neighbors that it was just for a ‘buffer zone.’”

Lipscomb University PHOTO: ERIC ENGLAND

Skrmetti urges ABA to change law school standards of ‘illegal racial discrimination’

STAFF REPORTS

Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti led 20 other state attorneys general in an effort to stop the American Bar Association from requiring consideration of diversity in admissions and hiring for law schools to earn accreditation.

Skrmetti sent a letter to the ABA last week calling the standards for accreditation “illegal racial discrimination,” saying they cannot be upheld with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President & Fellows of Harvard College (SFFA).

The ABA has not issued a statement on the letter from the attorneys general but published an article about a program it held recently titled “Brown v. Board at 70: Is the Battle Over?” on the same day as Skrmetti’s press release. The article doesn’t mention its own diversity standards for law schools and references the SFFA case only as a related link at the bottom of the article.

The group is considering changes to its Standard 206, with which Skrmetti takes issue in his letter. However, the attorney general said in his press release the

revisions would still “include the unlawful requirement that law schools engage in racebased admissions and hiring.”

He added: “The American Bar Association has long pursued the high calling of promoting respect for the law and the integrity of the legal profession, and we call on the organization to recommit to those ideals and ensure that its standards for law schools comport with federal law. If the standards continue to insist on treating students and faculty differently based on the color of their skin, they will burden every

law school in America with punitive civil rights litigation.”

Skrmetti has written at least two other letters on diversity, equity and inclusion since the SFFA decision. In January, he led a coalition against the U.S. Commerce Department’s “Business Diversity Principles” proposal and in July 2023 led another coalition warning Fortune 100 companies of potential legal action if they used race-based policies.

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

4th annual Franklin Book Festival honors late founder

Bill Peach

Event provides welcoming atmosphere for Middle Tennessee authors, literature lovers

BY JAYME FOLTZ

The fourth annual Franklin Book Festival recently welcomed book enthusiasts from near and far. Presented by the Authors Circle of Middle Tennessee and the Williamson County Public Library, this year’s iteration was a fitting tribute to its visionary founder, the late Bill Peach, who died in December 2023. The event was rechristened as the Bill Peach Book Festival this year in his honor.

Bill Peach, a beloved figure in Franklin, was more than just an author of six books. He was a dedicated merchant, school board member, former political candidate, and the town’s “Main Street Philosopher,” known for his engaging conversations at Merridee’s in Downtown Franklin. Peach ran the first three book festivals all by himself. His dream

of fostering a vibrant literary community continued to flourish with this year’s festival, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Authors Circle member Jim Nesbitt bestowed a new title upon Peach for his contributions to change and the written word: Shepherd of Authors.

Longtime friend and colleague Kathy Rhodes stepped up alongside authors Tom Wood and Tim Bishop to carry on his legacy in Williamson County.

“It’s exciting to see all of this creativity in one place,” Rhodes said.

“I mean, to honor Bill and know that we’re doing what he’d want to be doing, maybe even doing, if he was still here. You can hear the excitement we’ve generated, and it’s really good to see such a good outcome.”

This free, two-day festival invited the public to immerse themselves in the world of literature with a variety of activities. Aspiring writers gained invaluable insights, established authors networked and shared their expertise, and readers had the opportunity to discover new favorites. From instructional presentations on writing and publishing to engaging panel discussions and book sales and signings featuring more than 30 authors, the festival offered something for everyone.

Panels featured this year included: Children’s, Short Stories, Mystery/Crime, Historical Fiction, Science Fiction/Fantasy/ Horror, Romance, Nonfiction, Creative Nonfiction, and Poetry. The festival proudly featured a stellar lineup of authors, each bringing their unique voice and experience:

• Steven Womack is an Edgar and Shamus Award-winning author. He put Nashville on the map as a setting for the mystery genre with his trailblazing Music City Murders series. He authored several other novels including New York Times Notable Book Murphy’s Fault, Resurrection Bay, and By Blood Written

• Kristin O’Donnell Tubb is the author of 11 books for middle-grade readers including A Dog Like Daisy, Fowl Play, Luna Howls at the Moon, and The Story Collector series. Her book Autumn Winifred Oliver Does Things Different was nominated for the 2011-12 Volunteer State Book Award.

• Suzie Waltner is a longtime writer of romance and christian fiction. Like many authors, Waltner spends her days working away in the corporate world but spends her free time creating stories. Her latest novel Midnight Blue was a 2023 Holt Medallion Finalist and a 2023 Maggie Award Finalist in

the Inspirational Romance category.

• Jim Nesbitt is an award-winning author for his series of Texas crime thrillers featuring “battered but relentless” PI Ed Earl Burch. The series includes The Last Second Chance, The Right Wrong Number, The Best Lousy Choice, and The Dead Certain Doubt. Nesbitt was previously a journalist for over 30 years, serving as a reporter, editor, and national correspondent for papers and publications in seven states.

• Amy Cipolla Barnes is an awardwinning author of three short story collections: Ambrotypes, Mother Figures, and Child Craft. She’s also a Fractured Lit associate editor, Gone Lawn co-editor, and Ruby Lit assistant editor.

• Jeremy Finley is an internationally published author with his debut novel The Darkest Time of Night, which was declared a must-read by the New York Post, and its sequel The Dark Above received rave reviews from NPR. As a working investigative journalist, his reporting has resulted in numerous criminal convictions. He currently acts as chief investigative reporter at Nashville’s NBC affiliate.

• Meredith R. Lyons recently released her debut novel Ghost Tamer on September 19, 2023. Despite being new to the scene, Lyons is no stranger to writing with works published on CBS and Examiner.com alongside her blog. Her next novel A Dagger of Lightning, a slow-burn fantasy romance, will be released on April 1, 2025.

Whether attendees chose to come-and-go or stay for the entire duration, the festival offered a welcoming atmosphere where literature lovers could connect, learn, and be inspired, as Bill Peach intended.

Bill Peach Book Festival PHOTO: JAYME FOLTZ

Maque Choux (Cajun Corn)

BY EDIBLE NASHVILLE

Pronounced mock - shoe, this traditional Cajun dish is delicious when paired with beef, pork, or shrimp. Smoky bacon from Smokin’ Oaks organic farms contrasts the

ACROSS

1 Waterproof overshoes

sweet summer corn from Hancock Family Farms and cream from JD Country Milk.

INGREDIENTS

6 ears corn

grapeseed oil salt and pepper to taste

1/2 pound bacon or andouille sausage, diced

1 large sweet onion, diced

1 large bell pepper, diced 1/2 tablespoon cajun seasoning

1. Shuck corn and coat with oil and salt and pepper. Roast at 375F or grill corn until just charred. Once corn is cool to the touch, cut kernels off cob into a small bowl and reserve.

2. Add bacon or sausage to cast-iron pan over medium-low heat and sauté until crispy and fat is rendered, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and drain all but 1 tablespoon of fat.

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup diced heirloom tomato

1 tablespoon cold butter 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

3. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté over medium heat until soft, about 4 minutes. Add cajun seasoning. Return bacon or sausage to pan and add corn, garlic, and cream and simmer 9 minutes, until cream is thickened.

4. Add tomatoes and remove from heat. Slowly add cold butter. Add parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper.

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.

8 Drop-___ (surprise visitors)

11 FedEx rival

14 Superconductor?

15 Ser vice provided by Kaplan and the Princeton Review

17 Coward

18 Catherine the Great, for one

19 Some poison control center cases, in brief

20 City on Florida’s Space Coast

22 “The Marriage of Figaro,” e.g.

24 “___ pigs fly!”

25 Bassist Meyer

28 Mazda spor ts car

32 Nickname for a clumsy person

36 Cr y from under a sheet, perhaps

37 Capital of Georgia?

38 Mine discovery

39 Coffee holder

42 Some stir-fr y vegetables

46 “Heaven forbid!”

47 Component of a “Mickey Mouse degree,” say

48 “___ and the Detectives” (1929 novel)

51 “See ya!”

54 Rapper with the hit 1990 album “To the Extreme”

58 Gut-punch response

61 “That’s a terrible hiding spot”

62 What you might cr y upon recognizing this puzzle’s ingredient list?

65 “Ding , ding, ding!”

66 International news agency since 1851

67 Explosive stuff

68 “Shameless” channel, for short

69 Archrivals DOWN

1 Doomsday prepper’s stockpile

2 Surprise attack

3 Car toon frames

4 “For shame!”

5 Part of T.G.I.F.

6 Jim who sang “T ime in a Bottle”

7 Abnormally deep sleep

8 What “:” means in an analog y

9 Employer of rocket scientists

10 Sharp pain

11 Dickens’s ___ Heep

12 Divisions of British pounds

13 Hall-of-Fame pitcher Warren

16 Antebellum

21 Sleeveless undergarment, for short

22 ___ flour, ingredient in some gluten-free baking recipes

23 Having a baby bump, slangily

25 Recede

26 Couple

Text message status

41 Code-breaking grp.

43 More likely to win a holiday sweater contest

44 Songs for one

45 Something a scratch golfer expects to shoot

48 Kick out

49 V irginia’s George ___ University

50 Like argon

52 Oak-to-be

53 Little laugh

55 Some harsh cleaners

56 Nessie’s habitat, supposedly

57 Prefix that means “self ”

58 Poetic homages

59 The oni of Japanese folklore, e.g.

60 Come clean, with “up”

63 “Fee, fi, fo, ___”

64 Tribe that celebrates the annual Bear Dance

ANSWER TO PUZZLE

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.

PUZZLE BY MICHAEL SCHLOSSBERG

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

WOODMONT BAPTIST CHURCH

SOCIAL

Swan Ball 2024

Patron Party

BY BRENDA BATEY

PHOTOS BY PEYTON HOGE

The Swan Ball Patron Party was held at the home of Kathryn and David Brown, where Swan Ball Chairs Sally Nesbitt and Carolyn Taylor, along with the patron party hosts, thanked patrons for their support of the ball with cocktails, followed by a seated dinner party.

The co-hosts of the Cheekwood benefit were: Melanie and David Baker, Evelyn and Steve Blackmon, Cathy and Martin Brown, Lisa and John Campbell, Nancy and John Cheadle, Cathy and Clay Jackson, Edie and David Johnson, Ann and Owen Kelly, Lisa and Gaylon Lawrence, Kim and Jeff Leeper, and Sandy and Jay Sangervasi.

Patrons who arrived at the stately Belle Meade home of the Browns were greeted at the front door by Nashville icon Bill Forrester, along with the hosts.

Arrivals were met with a specialty cocktail of limoncello spritz, which set the refreshing yellow tone of the party. As guests mixed and mingled, they enjoyed caterer Kristen Winston’s delicious appetizers.

Everyone perused the gorgeous wares of Swan Ball Jeweler Kentshire, which brought an extensive collection of sparkling jewels for purchase to add to the coffers raised by the ball.

Guests continued to enjoy cocktails outside on the lovely outdoor terraces, embellished with swan details throughout. As the dinner bell rang, guests made their way through the sweeping magnolia lawn to a contemporary square tent structure. The party designer was Jenny Corts of Jenny Richter Events.

Everyone loved the striking hues of yellow as they entered the festive dinner tent. Mark O’Bryan and his design team at The Tulip Tree adorned the beautiful dining tables with gorgeous, white summer blooms and, near the ceiling, floating Lucite boxes were filled with white Phalaenopsis orchids.

There was beautiful background music during the meal, led by Russell Davis.

The delicious meal began with jumbo lump crab cakes, mixed greens, mango, citrus, pickled pink onions, lemon ginger sauce, and sesame vinaigrette.

The entrée was pan-roasted chicken with herb soubise, served with lemon mascarpone orzo primavera, asparagus, carrots, butter poached radishes, sugar snap peas, and English peas.

Dessert was a rich dark chocolate Creamsicle, with coconut Sabayon, homemade Oreo crumbs, and mango passion fruit curd.

Wines enjoyed were Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis and Montinore Estate Pinot Noir.

Guests included: Swan Ball jewelers

Carrie Imberman and Matthew Imberman of Kentshire, Cheekwood CEO Jane MacLeod, Don MacLeod Elizabeth and Clark Akers, Lin and Bill Andrews, Grace and Carl Awh, Melinda and Jeff Balser, Judy and Joe Barker, Caroline and David Bartholomew, Katie and Reno Benson, Paula and Tom Bennett, Elena and Barney Byrd, Tawnie and Vic Campbell, Connie and Tom Cigarran, Sally Coble, Nan and Tom Cox, Jana and Ansel Davis, Katherine and Pete DeLay, Dione and Justin DeWitte, Lake and John Eakin, Missy and John Eason, Donna and Jeff Eskind, Laurie Eskind, Noel and Richard Geer, Julie and Bob Gordon, Barbara and Greg Hagood, Emily Humphreys, Pamela and Bob Jackson, Sue and Douglas Joyce, Lillias and Will Johnston, Peggy and Randy Kinnard, Sandra and Larry Lipman, Maxine Majors, Julie Malott, Lisa and David Manning, Anne and Rich Maradik, Ellen Martin, Gerry Nadeau, Mary Catherine and David McClellan, Anne and Tommy Nesbitt, Elizabeth and Donnie Nichols, Felice and Spook Oldacre, Margaret and Alex Palmer, Elizabeth and Larry Papel, Kathy and Bobby Rolfe, Ashley and John Rosen, Anne Russell, Mary and Chris Simonsen, Mary and Michael Spalding, Katie and Tom Steele, Gloria and Paul Sternberg, Kathy and Norm Thomas, Larry Trabue, Susan and EW Weathersby, Barby and Govan White, Holly Wilds, Mary and Larry Wieck, Betsy and Ridley Wills, and Sissy Wilson.

Jeff and Kim Leeper

Laura Niewold and Sylvia Bradbury

Steve and Evelyn Blackmon, and Ann and Owen Kelly

Edie Johnson, Kathryn Brown, and Julie Stadler

Steve Taylor, Swan Ball Chairs Carolyn Taylor and Sally Nesbitt, and Jon Nesbitt

Irwin and Jeff Fisher

Be a neighborhood news ambassador for

Looking for a few neighbors who want to write about interesting things happening in your neighborhood. Specific neighborhoods of interest are Brentwood, Franklin, Spring Hill, Nolensville, Bellevue, West Meade, Green Hills.

Yes, you need to have some writing chops; extra credit if you’ve contributed to a newspaper at some point! Interested? Email neighbornews@theNEWStn.com and let us know what neighborhood you are interested in and include a few writing samples.

Anne and Tommy Nesbitt

Chris and Mary Simonsen, and Lisa and John Campbell

Larry Trabue, and Jean Ann and Barry Banker

Jack Bovender and Richard Bovender

Clay Jackson and Rich Maradik Sissy Wilson and Kathy Thomas

Five free and cheap family things to do in Middle Tennessee

BY AMANDA HAGGARD

It’s Father’s Day weekend, and there are several chances to hang with the family in and around Nashville. If dad can hang for 13 Going on 30, that’ll be happening on Thursday night, and on Friday down

is hosting its 10 anniversary with familyfriendly activities down in Nolensville. And then there’s Jazz on the Cumberland, which might be the perfect thing to help celebrate dads on Sunday.

NASHVILLE SCENE’S MOVIES IN THE PARK

Our sister publication the Nashville Scene is hosting its 30th Movies in the Park this summer season. Last week, The Super Mario Bros. Movie was on screen and the next few weeks will feature 13 Going on 30, Barbie and Shrek. Ahead of the movies, there are local vendors on site as well as food, drinks and more. Attendees are also welcome to bring their own snacks, blankets and chairs to hang out on the lawn at Elmington Park. Movies begin at sundown.

MOVIES IN THE PARK: FRANKLIN

Throughout June, there will be several chances to check out an outdoor movie in Franklin. Folks can bring their own chairs, blankets and snacks as well. On June 14, The Sandlot is on deck at Fieldstone Park with vendors Tikiz Shaved Ice & Ice Cream and Chick on a Truck. On June 21 at Pinkerton Park, they’ll be screening Raiders of the Lost Ark. Ahead of the movie, there’ll be Smokey Dawggs and Cold Front Cart Ice Cream for sale. On June 28, they’ll show Forrest Gump

RC Cola and a fresh MoonPie on June 15 is a great chance to check it out, though it is one of the busiest times to head down there. About an hour south of Nashville, this festival ties together two southern favorites and celebrates them for a full day. There’s typically a giant Moon Pie, cloggers, contests, vendors, music, food and more.

13TH ANNUAL JAZZ ON THE CUMBERLAND CONCERT SERIES

This iteration of the Jazz On The Cumberland Concert Series is the Father’s Day Edition. The event is free and is held one Sunday a month May through October beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Nashville Cumberland Park. The Sonja Hopkins Jazz Band will hold court at the event as the series showcases local, regional and Nashville talent. There are food trucks, concessions, vendors, a kid’s play zone and more.

MILL CREEK 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

On June 15, Mill Creek is hosting a 10year anniversary celebration in Nolensville.

Movies in the park PHOTO: ANGELINA CASTILLO

Headline Homes: April 2024 Ex-Hardee’s CEO sells residence for $7M; former LifePoint EVP buys on Tyne Boulevard for $5.2M

BY AMANDA HAGGARD

With prices like those on this month’s Headline Home list, even the rich must be feeling stretched nowadays. The leastexpensive entry sold for just under $5 million, while the most pricey clocks in at $14.5 million. The amenities remain largely the same: luxurious outdoor spaces, live-in nanny suites and more bathrooms than any family knows what to do with. But a couple of homes are more outside the box with, say, centuries-old roofing or a hospital-grade air filtration system. And with the everincreasing prices (it doesn’t seem that long ago that a $5 million Headline Home was a big deal), the homes clearly continue to be increasingly fancy.

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

1. Westview Avenue, Nashville 37205

Buyer: David Heller, trustee of 717 Westview Ave Trust

Sale price: $14.25 million

Seller: 717 Westview Ave LLC

Seller’s agent: Cathie Cato Renken, French King Fine Properties

Buyer’s agent: Caroline Parks, PARKS

What this home fails to offer in clear ownership history (a trust made the purchase, with the seller and LLC), it more than compensates in price. At an almoststunning $14.25 million, the Westview Avenue residence offers nearly 10,000 square feet (don’t even think about the equivalent price per foot of more than $1,400) and comes with six bedrooms, five full bathrooms and two half bathrooms. Novo Design Build calls the home the “Provence,” a “Frenchinspired villa.” The listing notes that “words fail to capture the true essence of Provence.” The design includes hand-selected beams and flooring, and centuries-old roof tiles.

2. Westview Avenue, Nashville 37205

Buyer: 407 Westview Avenue Residence Trust

Sale price: $10.3 million

Seller: Jeff Mobley, trustee of Cottage House Lane East

Seller’s agent: Steve Fridrich and Beth Molteni, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Buyer’s agent: Courtney Cooper Jenrath, Fridrich & Clark Realty

The listing notes this home offers the “best of all worlds,” and that sounds about like what you should get for spending $10.3 million. The home was constructed by Cates Builders with custom cabinets from HartertRussell, a pewter bar, Venetian plaster walls and 11-foot ceilings. All five bedrooms offer en suite bathrooms. There are several additional living spaces throughout, such as a media room, an 890-square-foot screened-in porch and a lower-level nanny/in-law suite.

3. Moran Road, Franklin 37069

Buyer: Jsls Moran LLC

Sale price: $9.7 million

Seller: Robert S. Levine 2009 Trust

Seller’s agent: Lisa Peebles and Richard G. Courtney, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Buyer’s agent: Cassidy Andrews, PARKS

This nearly $10-million “in-town estate” grandly holds court on 46 acres with access to Old Natchez Trace. The main home features a robust 10,862 square feet, supplemented by a 1,215-square-foot ancillary house on the 1,500 feet of river frontage. Set atop a hill, the home provides sweeping views of the acreage and its pickleball court, batting cage and swimming pool. Inside, the home uses geothermal heating and cooling and comes with a hospital-grade air purification system (likely spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic) and a kitchen that overlooks the aforementioned pool.

4. Deerfield Court, Franklin 37069

Buyer: Deerfield Ranch LLC

Sale price: $8.45 million

Sellers: Kimberely and Greg Graddy

Sellers’ agent: Richard French,

French King Fine Properties

Buyer’s agent: Michelle Maldonado and Erin Mervis-Hoppe, Compass RE

This “unique family compound” went for just under $8.5 million. The main house includes 7,700 square feet and is bolstered by a 3,600-square-foot retooled barn offering guest accommodations and activity space. Kimberely Graddy, who is a partner in health care business ProMed, and husband Greg, who retired from health care tech company Hologic at 37, sold the home, which underwent the barn renovation just this past year. Outside there is a pool, spa, fenced pastures and views of rolling hills. The main home includes a cedar shake roof, white oak flooring and eight bedrooms with several en suite bathrooms.

5. Wilkins Branch Road, Franklin 37064

Buyer: Aaron Drew, trustee of Bring A Shovel Trust

Sale price: $7 million

Sellers: Deanna and Andrew Puzder, Trustees

Sellers’ agent: Gary Ashton and Jeff Checko, The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage

Buyer’s agent: Greg Musgrave, United Country Real Estate Leipers Fork Andrew Puzder, former CEO of CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc. (the Franklinbased parent company of Hardee’s) and Republican Party powerbroker, and his wife, Deanna, sold this home for $7 million to the Bring A Shovel Trust. The residence itself is quite small for Headline Homes standards, but it comes with almost 80 acres of Williamson County land.

6. Park Hill Drive, Nashville 37205

Buyer: Park Hill Drive Trust

Sale price: $6.15 million

Seller: Blue Sky Properties LLC

Seller’s agent: Anthony Tavakoli, Blue Sky Properties

Buyer’s agent: Julia Corker Spickard, Fridrich & Clark Realty

This new home in Belle Meade was built and sold by Blue Sky Properties. Situated on a single-acre lot, the residence includes five bedrooms, five full bathrooms, two half bathrooms and four wood-burning, natural stone fireplaces. The home offers covered front and rear porches, a rear terrace and, of course, sufficient space for a swimming pool if desired.

7. Saint Blaise Road, Gallatin 37066

Buyers: Timothy Eric Wright and Leanne Wright

Sale price: $6 million

Seller: James Conn

Seller’s and buyers’ agent: Bryan Ayers, Apex Realty and Auction

Timothy Eric Wright and Leanne Wright purchased three parcels from James Conn in Sumner County. The residence located on the property is smallish by Headline Homes standards at 4,609 square feet. But the three parcels and about 54 acres more than compensate for that.

8. Shys Hill Road, Nashville 37215

Buyer: Charles Robert Pruett

Sale price: $5.7 million

Seller: Shys Linton LLC

Seller’s agent: Erin Krueger, Compass Tennessee

Buyer’s agent: Lara Kirby, Kirby Group, PARKS

Charles Robert Pruett, managing partner of The Pruett Financial Group, purchased this large custom abode. With eight bedrooms, eight full bathrooms and three half bathrooms, the 7,108 square feet of space offers room for a large family and guests. The property came with a new gunite swimming pool and spa that includes fire features. “This home redefines luxury living,” according to the listing.

9. Tyne Boulevard, Nashville 37220

Buyers: Katherine and Victor Giovanetti

Sale price: $5.2 million

Sellers: John Christopher and Elizabeth Taylor

Sellers’ agent: Rita Starling Puryear and Trudy Byrd, Fridrich & Clark Realty

Buyers’ agent: Unknown

Victor Giovanetti, a former executive vice president of hospital operations for LifePoint Health, and his wife, Katherine, bought this home. Sitting on 4.5 acres in Oak Hill, the 6,731-square-foot home comes with a side four-car garage entrance and a new geothermal energy setup. If the Giovanettis so choose, they can add 1,000 square feet of living quarters in an unfinished upstairs space.

10. Sawtooth Lane, College Grove 37046

Buyer: 4Daughters #2 LLC

Sale price: $4,953,794

Seller: Luna Custom Homes

Seller’s agent: Robert Shiels, Grove Realty

Buyer’s agent: Ami Kase and Kim Brannon, Zeitlin Sotheby’s International Realty

Luna Custom Homes built this residence with five bedrooms, six full bathrooms and one half bath. The residence — it is rare for a College Grove deal to land on the Headline Homes lists — offers almost 9,000 square feet in which to relax.

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

717 Westview PHOTO: ANGELINA CASTILLO

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