Bright & Early: In The Spotlight Edition

Good morning, Nashville. The story of Belmont University’s alleged decision to part ways with women’s soccer coach Lisa Howe because of her sexuality has been making the rounds to several national media outlets over the past few days, drawing fire from students, faculty, alumni and advocacy groups alike. Earlier this week, Coach Howe released her first public statement since the incident to The Advocate magazine which didn’t speak to the issue of whether she was fired or resigned on her own accord, but did say that if this situation led to an open and honest dialogue about diversity and acceptance, she would feel it a served positive purpose. Meanwhile, a local attorney is now calling for Belmont Board of Trustees Chair Marty Dickens to step down as chair of the Metro Convention Center Authority because of his statements defending Belmont’s actions.

New security measures at Hillsboro High. Metro Schools and Metro Police are working together to step up security at Hillsboro High School following the murder of a student two weeks ago and a text message threat of violence that circulated around the school the next week. Officials say it’s only a precaution and that they want to be proactive about preventing any potential incidents.
Baby, it’s cold outside. Hundreds of folks are without heat this week during Nashville’s coldest temperatures so far this year. Though NES and the Metro Action Commission are trying to help those in need, they often still end up cutting off utilities for those who can’t pay the bills. If you or anyone you know is in need of assistance, check out the Metro Action Commission for information on where to find help.
Bits & pieces. We’re not sure why we needed a study to tell us that watering our Christmas tree will slow the needles from falling off, but there you have it! Science … The downtown Hotel Indigo has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection … We hope that Salt Lake City loves Central Parking as much as we do … Tennessee may soon be in the business of processing other countries’ nuclear waste … A group hoping to keep the State Fair in Nashville has picked out two more possible locations … Project Homeless Connect is happening at the Fairgrounds today to assist families with preventing foreclosure and connection people with other much-needed services.

Nashvillest