The Nashville Way: Racial Etiquette and the Struggle for Social Justice in a Southern City , by Benjamin Houston, is the winner of the 2012 Tennessee History Book Award, presented annually by the Tennessee Library Association and the Tennessee Historical Commission.  Published by the University of Georgia Press, the well-written history gives a new perspective on race relations ... (click for more)

One of the most famous names associated with the Civil War battle on Lookout Mountain 150 years ago this fall was Robert Cravens. He did not fire a shot or lead troops, but he owned the home and land where the majority of the Battle of Lookout Mountain took place on Nov. 24, 1863. While he was gone during the famous battle after taking refuge, he was on hand for some of ... (click for more)

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke said Friday he is keeping Bobby Dodd as police chief. “I have had numerous conversations with Chief Dodd over the last several weeks,” said Mayor Berke. “I appreciate his dedication and experience in law enforcement and have asked him to continue to serve as chief of police.” “I look forward to continuing to work with Mayor Berke and his administration, ... (click for more)

Riverbend Festival Executive Director Chip Baker told the Civitan Club on Friday that the city's decision to no longer provide city police officers inside the festival gates will cost pin prices to go up next year. Mr. Baker said, "I understand the actions that governments have to take, but we'll have to adjust our prices next year. How much, I don't know yet." City officials ... (click for more)

Since my hip operation and time in recovery, I have tried to set aside things that are insignificant to me and to average Americans. Don't get me wrong here. What these people are doing (Bengahzi) is despicable be they left or right wing, and they have been doing it (both sides) for a long time. But the dirty deeds themselves carry little weight as to what they mean to you or me. ... (click for more)

Jeff Bliss, an 18-year-old who is in the 10th grade because he dropped out of school last year, got kicked out of a Texas classroom a couple of weeks ago. But as he was exiting the room, he launched into the most wonderful rant that has ever been on the art of teaching children. He should know – his mom is a teacher. With his long hair waving almost as much as his arms, the teenager ... (click for more)